| Abdul Hakiim Yakof |
THE Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, has urged Brunei youths to carry out volunteer work, regardless of the size or amount of the required services.
The minister made the call during a visit yesterday to the Hassanal Bolkiah National Sports Complex, to observe the progress of several youth participants in the Volunteer Leadership programme.
The programme is being organised by the Youth and Sports Department at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, in conjunction with International Volunteer Day 2016 which carries the theme of ‘Global Applause – Give volunteers a hand’.
While talking to the youth participants, the minister men-tioned that certain factors – including personal qualities, contemporary values and volunteer abilities – must be analysed and summarised into an important foundation for further action.
“Volunteerism is not som-ething that can be considered easy or easily done,” he said. “Volunteer work requires ideas, approach, methods and certain skills in accordance with changes and requirements of target groups and communities. Training and guidance will enable volunteers and activists in the volunteer movement to improve themselves and increase their expertise so they can carry out their services efficiently and effectively.”
He also said that volunteer development requires learning activities to increase knowledge, acquire suitable work skills and form positive values, as well as the exploration of new ideas and methods in volunteer work.
“Volunteers are special individuals who carry the torch of compassion and humanity,” he said.
The Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, interacting with the youth participants. – PHOTOS: SYAHMI HASSAN
The Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports in a group photo with the youth participants of the Volunteer Leadership programme.
“They are always ready to give and share without expecting anything in return. For their tireless services and contributions, the United Nations (UN) has designated December 5 as International Volunteer Day.
This was achieved from a resolution during the UN General Assembly on November 20, 1997 to designate 2001 as the International Year of Volunteer.”
He added that a volunteer only gives to the extent of their capabilities, so that it can be shared with others.
“Volunteerism is born from hope and a willingness to share with the rest of the community, or those who need assistance and support,” he said. “No premium is placed on the size and form of contribution.
“All of it has value and meaning to the society. Even with all the limitations, the volunteers in the country on various levels have given their meaningful services and contributions to the nation.
Many are unknown, unre-cognised or unappreciated, yet they continue to serve.”
This year, the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports is diversifying the concept of the celebrations, with an emphasis on providing volunteers with more knowledge through a leadership workshop.
The workshop will be followed by a unity sports activity, involving as many youth volunteers as possible.
Twenty-five of the participants in the four-day programme are from the top echelon of several volunteer bodies, and are being provided with further training to make a positive impression while engaging in social work and acts of volunteerism.
The post Minister calls on youths to engage in acts of volunteerism appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.