Kota Kinabalu: Youth are the torchbearers of change in the present day and the leaders of tomorrow, says Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Haji Noor.
He said that young people’s active involvement in charitable work reflects their maturity and concern for the wellbeing of society, while also demonstrating their readiness to shoulder leadership responsibilities in the future.
“They are not merely the leaders of tomorrow, but significant contributors to today’s progress. Their energy, creativity, and idealism must be nurtured and harnessed,” he said.
Hajiji’s speech were delivered by Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister Datuk Abidin Madingkir, at the charity dinner and officiating of the San Chuan Sabah Welfare Association at the Hakka Hall, here on Friday.
Hajiji said, to strengthen youth development, the government will draft the Sabah Youth Development Enactment as a legal framework to reinforce the organisational structure of youth bodies, formally recognise youth activism, and provide a more systematic platform for long-term growth.
“Through this enactment, we aim to give every youth leader in Sabah the time, space, and support needed to lead confidently and contribute meaningfully to the state,” he said.
Hajiji commended the San Chuan Sabah Welfare Association’s inclusive approach, which has succeeded in engaging more than 90 per cent of its members from the younger generation.
He said the association’s youth involvement as a model that should be emulated and encouraged.
“Youth participation in volunteerism and welfare initiatives signals that they care, are responsible, and capable of uniting diverse communities towards common goals,” he added, also highlighting how young people are effectively using social media as a tool to spread awareness.
He further welcomed the association’s ongoing fundraising efforts to acquire its own premises, a strategic move towards more organised and sustainable operations.
Hajiji expressed confidence that with the support of the community and generous donors, the aspiration will become a reality and pave the way for more charitable initiatives in the future.
“I hope the success of tonight’s event will serve as an inspiration for youth to continue contributing to community welfare and the advancement of Sabah,” he said.
