HM to youth: Support Syariah law

Nabilah Haris
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

HIS Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei has called on youths to show their support for Syariah law when it comes into force in April.

In the titah during the annual National Youth Day Celebration held at the Indoor stadium, His Majesty said that an understanding is vital amongst the youth as it would help them develop not only the country but themselves.

“Nowadays we are moving towards the implementation of the Islamic criminal law. I trust our youth will also join the others in supporting this move. Their obligations include making an effort to understand the contents and appreciate the intent of the Shariah Penal Code. By doing so, our youth will be among those groups of people who are more mature in dealing with the issues involved,” said the monarch.

His Majesty said that youths need to be sensitive to existing challenges caused by their surrounding circumstances and that they should be aware that there is potential damage for them to over-indulge in entertainment.

Furthermore, they face other challenges like those across the world with regards to unemployment where there is an estimated 18,000 unemployed youth in the country said His Majesty. If the issue is not dealt with in an integrated manner, the country’s stability would be threatened.

“The youth must change their mindset away from over-reliance on the government for employment. Youths must be more prepared to grab career opportunities in the private sector as well as business opportunities in the field of entrepreneurship.”

Current efforts to equip youth with skills through vocational education is an area that His Majesty expressed his satisfaction in with both the public and private sector that had provided such opportunities. However, there is more to be done explained the monarch.

“Other challenges await our youth, there is a mismatch in the employment market from a supply and demand aspect which contributes greatly to unemployment. Because of this, I call upon all relevant parties to increase their efforts and strategies in collectively building the capacity of youths, and by preparing a conducive environment in resolving the issue of unemployment more effectively.”

“Youth in making their contribution towards the Vision should have a strong, solid, personality, be courteous and responsible. Youth towards the Brunei Vision should necessarily be of firm attitude and positive outlook in their support for all measures taken for the common good (of society).”

The monarch lauded the efforts by youth in developing their skills, especially in the field of volunteerism.

“Regarding volunteerism, I am very proud of the fact that many of our young people are taking part in voluntary activities, both inside and outside the country. Their increased participation is even more significant as Brunei Darussalam is the one who pioneered the creation of ‘The ASEAN Young Professional Volunteer Corps’ aimed to provide voluntary services in various aspects to the communities in member countries, that need of such assistance.

“Volunteering is an exceptionally good culture. Not only will it enhance the spirit of solidarity and understanding, those involving themselves in such activities will deserve rewards from Allah. I hope all of these worthy measures will undergo continuous improvement towards excellence.”

The National Youth Day was first held in 2006, initiated by His Majesty.

Dipetik dari - The Brunei Times