Kota Kinabalu: Youths must be given the opportunity and space to determine the future of a new Sabah, said PBS Central Youth Deputy Chief Louis Lai.
Lai said that to shape Sabah’s new future, youths must be part of the decision-making process.
“We should not merely be pointing fingers at others. Youths need to be given the chance and trust.
“However, it must be remembered that such space and trust do not come freely.
“We, the youths ourselves, must earn that trust to build a new future for Sabah.
“I know that young people are very active in chasing popularity. With just post one video, a person can become an instant influencer. But such popularity is only temporary and will not last, while the right life principles will endure for a lifetime,” he said.
Lai was speaking during the Bah Bincang Kita Pre-Election Youth Forum jointly organised by Community Empowerment Initiative Sabah, Gerakan Anak Sabah, Hai Mandak, Sabah Youth Movement, SEEN, SPADE, and The Sip Sip Show on Saturday.
The forum were attended by youth leaders from ten parties namely, DAP, GRS, PKR, PBS, MUDA, PIS, SAPP, Star, Upko and Warisan.
According to Lai, renewal must be carried out to ensure continuity of past struggles.
“Many people think that renewal means discarding the old, but to me renewal means giving new life to the previous struggles.
“I know youths do not care, just a little short on action,” he said.
In view on the statement that many Sabahan youths are tired of racial and religious politics, Lai said that youths are the bridge and the fortress against all elements of racism that could threaten harmony.
“PBS was born from the unity of various races and religions. This is the essence of what PBS stands for. In this context, youths must be the shield against negative elements that can destroy harmony.
“In fact, here in Sabah, we live harmoniously regardless of race, ethnicity, or religion. We can sit and drink together with people of all backgrounds,” he said.
