MIRI – The Malaysian Ministry of Youth and Sports (KBS) has intensified its efforts to engage with the younger generation through the launch of the Kembara Inspirasi Belia Akar Umbi (KIBAR) Sarawak 2.0 programme for 2026.
Held in Miri on Saturday, 18 July, the event served as a strategic platform to deliver government initiatives directly to grassroots communities while fostering two-way interaction between policymakers and youth.
The programme was officiated by the Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports, Mordi Bimol, who emphasised that KIBAR is more than just an outreach exercise.
He described it as a crucial initiative aimed at cultivating a generation of young people who are proactive, courageous, and resilient enough to navigate the complexities of the modern world.
“KIBAR is one of the important platforms for us to shape the youth of the future who are more proactive, braver, more resilient and more prepared to face increasingly complex challenges,” Mordi stated during his address.
He noted that the current cohort of young people faces a vastly different landscape compared to previous generations, particularly due to the rapid advancements in digital technology.
The Deputy Minister highlighted that the evolving social, economic, and technological environment demands a comprehensive approach to youth development.
It is no longer sufficient to provide basic support; the state must ensure that young individuals possess the relevant knowledge, skills, and competitiveness required to meet both current and future market needs.
A key feature of the KIBAR 2.0 programme was the town hall session, which provided a dedicated space for direct dialogue.
Young attendees were encouraged to voice their views, share their aspirations, and discuss pressing issues related to youth development with the deputy minister.
This interactive element underscores the government’s commitment to listening to the voices of the younger demographic and incorporating their feedback into policy formulation.
Beyond dialogue, the event offered a wide array of practical services and educational opportunities. An exhibition featuring admissions information from Higher Learning Institutions (IPT) allowed students to explore further education pathways.
Government agency booths provided information on various public services, while the Rahmah MADANI Sales offered affordable goods to attendees.
Health and wellness were also prioritised, with free health screenings available for participants. In a move to support local mobility and maintenance, the programme included free motorcycle oil changes, a service highly valued in rural and semi-urban areas.
Recreational activities such as people’s sports added a fun element to the day, encouraging physical fitness and community bonding.
On the skills front, an introductory course on Canva was conducted, equipping participants with basic graphic design skills that are increasingly valuable in the digital economy.
Various agencies also held talks and sharing sessions, providing insights into career opportunities and personal development.
The event also served as the venue for the Sarawak State Level 2026 National Youth Award Presentation, recognising outstanding contributions by individuals and organisations in community development.
The award for the individual male category was presented to Melvin Jangga Rupitan from Kuching, while Dayang Nur Atiqah Zainirra Awang Zaini from Sarikei won the individual female category.
Both recipients received RM4,000 in cash, a trophy, and a certificate of appreciation. In the organisation category, the Perkasa Taman Marina Youth Club from Miri was crowned the winner.
The club received RM10,000 in cash, along with a trophy and certificate, acknowledging their significant role in fostering youth engagement and community service in the region.
Several key figures attended the event, including Lamat Nyalau, Director of the Sarawak State Youth and Sports Department (JBS); Mazlan Anis, Director of the National Youth Skills Institute (IKBN) Miri; and Iszuani Haironi, Executive Secretary of SABERKAS Sarawak.
Their presence highlighted the multi-agency collaboration involved in executing such a comprehensive youth development programme.
The KIBAR 2.0 initiative reflects a broader national strategy to empower youth as agents of change. By combining inspiration with practical support, the programme aims to build a confident and capable generation ready to contribute to Sarawak’s continued progress.
As the digital era reshapes societal norms, such grounded and interactive approaches remain essential for keeping youth engaged and informed.
