MORE YOUTHS TO BENEFIT

THE MINISTRY of Youth and Sports announced 12 more short-term skills and entrepreneurship training programmes for the youths in Sabah next year.

According to the Minister, Datuk Peter Pang En Yin, approximately 853 youths would benefit from the programmes that cater to youths from diverse backgrounds especially those from the rural areas who may not have the opportunity to pursue tertiary education.

"The Barisan Nasional (BN) government is very concerned and sensitive to the needs and welfare of the people, especially youths who need support," Pang said during the closing ceremony of the Cooking and Buns, Cakes and Pastry Courses organised by the ministry in Sandakan last Sunday.

Pang said that more short courses have been included in the programmes following an overwhelming response from the youths statewide to the short-term programmes held by the ministry this year.

As a result of the ministry's initiatives, up to 548 youths from 28 divisions, districts and sub-districts statewide have been trained in various skills, including creative handicraft-making and sewing.

''I welcome feedbacks, opinions and suggestions from the youths in terms of the organization of programmes as well as the services that my ministry provides. The youths are the eyes and ears as well as the catalyst of development in the state and country," he said.

In addition, Pang pointed out that his ministry strongly encourages youths to join voluntary efforts to help others.

He said doing voluntary work promotes compassion, empathy and a sense of gratitude in society.

"These qualities make for strong body and mind, tolerance and respect for all cultures, as well as a patriotic spirit for the country," he stressed. (Insight Sabah)