BINTULU: Youths in the state must prepare themselves with knowledge grounded in the latest technology and artificial intelligence (AI) to realise Sarawak’s aspiration of becoming a developed and high-income state.

Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg, emphasised that highly knowledgeable youths are the key drivers in advancing not only the state and the nation’s economy but also that of the wider ASEAN region.

He said that Sarawak’s capability in renewable energy has also been recognised by Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who expressed his wish for Sarawak to contribute to the development of the ASEAN Power Grid.

“Therefore, the Sarawak Government today is preparing all of you to play your part in generating energy that will drive the ASEAN economy.

“That is why the Prime Minister asked me whether Sarawak could become a contributor to the ASEAN Power Grid,” he said when delivering his speech at the closing ceremony of the Sarawak Youth Week 2025 celebration held at Dewan Suarah Bintulu on Sunday.

Also present were Speaker of the Sarawak Legislative Assembly, Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nassar, Minister for Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development, Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, and the Deputy Ministers of the same ministry, Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu and Dato Dr. Ripin Lamat.

According to the Premier, Sarawak’s abundance of natural resources gives the state a unique advantage in generating various forms of renewable energy, which have become a new source of economic growth.

He added that these natural resources represent Sarawak’s intellectual wealth, valuable assets that will propel the state’s development, extend its influence beyond national borders, and drive its aspiration to emerge as the “Star of ASEAN.”

In this regard, he urged the younger generation to be disciplined and aspire to become future leaders who will steer the state in the right direction.

“If our future leaders lack vision, fail to understand and harness our strengths, and cannot lead us on the right path, our state will face disorder. Therefore, we must be wise in governance,” the Premier stressed.

Also present were Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department (Coordinator for Regional Development Agencies, DBKU and Islamic Affairs), Datuk Dr. Abdul Rahman Junaidi, Bintulu Division Resident, Datu Nyurak Keti, other distinguished guests, department heads, and members of the youth community. -UKASnews