Latest news with #LeoForum2025


Borneo Post
3 days ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
‘Breaking the Waves' forum unites 351 Leos from Sarawak, Sabah
Abdul Karim (fourth right) with senior Lions leaders from District 308 and Multiple District 308 launching the Leo Forum 2025. – Photo by Roystein Emmor KUCHING (June 5): The Leo Forum 2025, themed 'Breaking the Waves', was officially launched today, uniting youth leaders from across Sarawak and Sabah in a celebration of service, leadership, and unity at the Raia Hotel and Convention Centre here. Sarawak Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Minister, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, who officiated the event, said the theme reflected the bold, fearless, and forward-moving spirit of today's youth. 'You are not waiting for change, you are becoming the change,' he said during his speech. The three-day forum is organised by District 308-A2, and features 351 registered delegates, including 325 Leo members from 36 Leo Clubs – 29 from Sarawak and seven from Sabah. 'This is not just about talks and workshops, it's about building the kind of leaders our communities and country need, leaders with empathy, creativity, courage, and a strong sense of service. 'I must say, the Leo Club is doing a phenomenal job of creating that platform,' Abdul Karim said. Programmes lined up include the Breaking Waves Seminar, the 'Share Your Shine' talent showcase, the Sustainability of Youth Development Forum, leadership and project development workshops, as well as recognition and fellowship sessions. Forum chief and District Leo Clubs chairperson Chia Siaw Ling said the theme symbolises the courage of young leaders who rise together to challenge norms and create lasting impact. 'This forum is where ideas begin, leaders grow, and waves are made,' she said. Leo Clubs, a youth initiative under Lions Clubs International, aim to empower young people through service, leadership training, and global engagement. Living by the motto 'Leadership, Experience, Opportunity', Leos are committed to being agents of positive change in their communities and beyond. Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah Breaking the Waves Kuching Leo Forum


Borneo Post
3 days ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
S'wak sees rising interest from Japanese nationals under S-MM2H programme, says Abd Karim
Abdul Karim speaks to reporters after launching the Leo Forum 2025. – Photo by Roystein Emmor KUCHING (June 5): Sarawak is seeing growing interest from Japanese nationals looking to relocate to the state under the Sarawak-Malaysia My Second Home (S-MM2H) programme, said State Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah. He noted that tourist arrivals from Japan have increased, with several individuals expressing a desire to settle in Sarawak for the long term. 'At present, there are no formal proposals to offer residency similar to what Singapore or Brunei provide. 'However, the S-MM2H programme is open to them, and it continues to attract strong interest, particularly from China,' he told reporters after launching the Leo Forum 2025 at the Raia Hotel and Convention Centre here today. When asked if the state plans to introduce new initiatives to attract more Japanese nationals, Abdul Karim said no such discussions have taken place yet. 'We've already opened a Trade and Tourism Office in Singapore, one in Brunei Darussalam, and another one is being planned in the city of Pontianak, West Kalimantan. 'The state government also has a proposal, if I'm not mistaken, to open one in Abu Dhabi. 'But if there is a need to open in other cities or countries, we can consider it,' he said. He said many applicants under the programme are senior citizens drawn by Sarawak's reputation as a safe and peaceful destination with quality medical care. 'Sarawak is seen as a safe place with good medical facilities, which is important for elderly applicants. 'Our strong healthcare system and overall safety are major pull factors,' he added. Abdul Karim also highlighted that some Korean families have begun enrolling their children in English-language schools such as Tunku Putra, with parents applying under the same programme. Nearly 600 S-MM2H applications were approved in 2024, and a similar figure is expected for this year, he added. Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah Japanese lead s-mm2h