KUCHING – The Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg, has underlined the vital role of the scouting movement in equipping young people with leadership skills, resilience, and problem-solving abilities as the state advances into a digital future.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony for the new Sarawak Scouts Association Headquarters, known as the Tun Openg Building, the premier highlighted that scouting is more than leadership training. It is about survival, adaptability, and the ability to find solutions in unfamiliar situations.
“One of the most important aspects of scouting is not just leadership but also the ability to survive and face challenges. The key is finding solutions to problems, and that is what enables us to move forward and succeed,” he said.
The new headquarters, located along Jalan Batu Lintang, will replace the former building destroyed by fire in February 2024.
The facility is designed to be more than an administrative centre, incorporating a four-storey hostel, youth hub, and heritage gallery.
The Premier explained that these facilities will provide scouts from across Sarawak with a space to gather, exchange ideas, and strengthen their analytical and leadership skills.
He stressed that the younger generation must be prepared to navigate a rapidly evolving world shaped by artificial intelligence and data.
“We are entering a new era where AI and data will increasingly determine our future. Therefore, we must prepare our young people to face these new challenges and equip them with the skills needed to thrive in a digital economy,” he said.
The Premier, who is also Sarawak’s Chief Scout, recalled his own experiences in scouting, learning survival skills such as hiking, rope-tying, and fire-building.
He noted that these activities instil discipline, teamwork, and resilience, qualities that remain relevant in today’s fast-changing environment.
The Sarawak government has committed an initial allocation of RM20 million for the project, though additional funding is expected to be required to complete the planned facilities, including a gallery to preserve the state’s scouting heritage.
Beyond the headquarters, Sarawak is also developing a Scout-Guide campsite in Matang, which has reached 70 per cent completion.
Once finished, it will serve as a centre for camping, training, and youth development activities, further strengthening the scouting and guiding movements in the state.
The Premier emphasised that these initiatives are part of a broader effort to nurture future leaders who can adapt to technological change while maintaining strong values of discipline, teamwork, and community service.
The Tun Openg Building is expected to stand as a landmark for scouting in Malaysia, symbolising renewal and resilience for generations to come.
