Every young person has the potential to achieve great things, but turning dreams into reality begins with discovering one’s strengths, exploring opportunities, and having the confidence to take the first step. With this aspiration, the Faculty of Cognitive Sciences and Human Development (FCSHD), Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS), brought learning beyond the university campus and into the community through “Outstanding Youth, Successful Careers: Building Dreams, Creating the Future” (Remaja Hebat, Kerjaya Mantap: Membina Impian, Mencipta Masa Depan). The initiative aimed to inspire young people to recognise their potential, explore educational and career pathways, and develop the confidence and skills needed to navigate an increasingly dynamic world.
Held on 17 October 2026 at Dewan Barei, Persatuan Biperoh Kuching, the programme was organised by FCSHD, UNIMAS in collaboration with SUPP N.19 Mambong, and the local community. This initiative brought together young participants from the Mambong area, providing opportunities to explore their personal strengths, educational aspirations, career interests, and future possibilities.
The programme was officiated by Tuan Andrew Victor Nub anak Datuk William Tanyuh, SUPP Sarawak Supreme Council Member and Chairman of SUPP N.19 Mambong, whose presence reflected the importance of community leadership in supporting youth development. The welcoming address was delivered by Sir Mohd Hafizan bin Hashim, Deputy Dean of FCSHD UNIMAS, who highlighted the Faculty’s commitment to extending educational opportunities beyond the university and strengthening meaningful engagement with local communities.
Led by Chong Siew Kian as Head of Programme, the initiative was supported by a dedicated organising team comprising Dr. Julia anak Cliffton Akoi @ Empadeng, Dr. Ida Juliana Hutasuhut, Dr. Agnes Lim Siang Siew, Dr. Voon Siok Ping, Dr. Mohamad Shahrul bin Kamaruddin, and Ms. Oon Yin Bee as well as Mdm. Mastura Arifin from Sarawak Welfare Department. Their collective contributions, together with the support of community partners, played an important role in coordinating and delivering the programme.
A central focus of the programme was encouraging participants to recognise their individual strengths, interests, and potential. Through interactive activities and career-related exploration, participants were introduced to the importance of understanding themselves before making educational and career decisions. The programme reinforced the message that successful career development begins with self-discovery, realistic goal-setting, and a willingness to explore different opportunities.
Another important component was the introduction of artificial intelligence (AI) as a tool for learning and career exploration. As digital technologies continue to influence education and employment, young people need to develop an understanding of how AI can support learning, information gathering, and decision-making. The programme emphasised the importance of using AI responsibly, encouraging participants to develop independent thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills rather than relying entirely on technology.
The programme also highlighted that career pathways are not limited to a single academic or professional route. Different individuals possess different abilities, interests, and aspirations, and these differences can lead to meaningful opportunities across various fields. By exposing participants to educational and career possibilities, the initiative encouraged them to approach their future with greater confidence, curiosity, and openness to continuous learning.
Beyond individual development, the programme demonstrated the importance of collaboration between universities, community organisations, and local leaders in creating accessible learning opportunities for young people. Such partnerships help bridge the gap between educational knowledge and community needs while providing a platform for meaningful engagement between university representatives and local youth.
Ultimately, “Outstanding Youth, Successful Careers: Building Dreams, Creating the Future” reinforced the message that a successful future is shaped not only by academic qualifications but also by personal initiative, adaptability, and the choices individuals make throughout their development. Participants were encouraged to view their aspirations as achievable goals that require planning, perseverance, and consistent effort.
Through this community engagement initiative, FCSHD UNIMAS reaffirmed its commitment to youth empowerment, educational outreach, and sustainable community development. The programme reflected the Faculty’s continued efforts to translate knowledge into meaningful community impact while inspiring young people to recognise their potential, pursue their aspirations, and take positive steps towards building a better future.
