I thank Allah, the Almighty for enabling me to bear witness to this wonderful occasion. Youth wherever they may be, are a valuable asset and the pride of a nation.
They are a group of people who are capable of shaping the future and continuing the pursuit of the national goal. As a common rule, young people have their own program and agenda.
They act and think in accordance to their style. They are young and active. Hence, they have a lot of task and activities that they are able to undertake.
However, the community aware of youth will not abandon them; instead they will give them their due attention to them.
This is not a hindrance to them, but a mentoring effort shown. We shall not be trapped by financial consideration, but rather ask ourselves as to what will happen to our nation if our youth did not receive a proper education? What are the gains and loses?
As the future leaders, our youth should not psroject an attitude and image that contradicts the national mould.
Our religious life, for example is a special trait. Aside from that, our life is shaped by our norm, which is also a valuable culture. As Bruneians, we are strong in upholding our traditions; which is respecting one another, the nation’s elderly people, being meticulous and caring.
These characteristics propel us as progressive and respected people. Aside from that, our youth should possess a cutting edge in areas that include education and many varied skills.
These can be achieved through normal channels and also in specialized courses. As I am aware of this, my Government has provided educational institutions for teaching knowledge and skills.
Through this, we have opened the way for Brunei to achieve excellence in an unlimited time frame. Our youth is our biggest asset in the context of nation building.
They are the active contributors, especially in voluntary fields. I highly appreciate their involvement in this as it reflects their sincerity and the spirit of sacrifice. In the absence of this spirit, all the voluntary activities will not materialise.
I am confident that the spirit of volunteerism in every citizen is a determinant towards the level of progress that we achieved. Wouldn’t the spirit of volunteerism open doors to thousands of efforts? This is the strength and specialty of the spirit of volunteerism.
Besides that, I would like to remind – especially youth leaders and those present here – that young people in particular are exposed to exploitation by certain people for their own vested interest.
There are those who make use of young people to market entertainment products and costumes that are in contradiction to our culture and custom.
Why are the youth targeted? Because they have attractive characteristics, apart from emotional factors which enable them to be influenced by new and trendy products.
This opportunity is exploited by those people who worry whether their influence is good or bad.
Exploitation of the weaknesses of youth should not be left unhindered, but serious attention should be paid by all, especially the young people themselves.
Programs that instill awareness should be arranged including of that by parents and the community before this develops into a chronic social issue. I understand that the impact of entertainment products and costumes is minimal because it is seasonal and temporary in nature.
But, do not forget that whatever is nurtured will also be reaped. Hence, be on the guard. Lets us remind ourselves for the excellence of our youth and ourselves.
In conjunction with the presence of youth leaders from all corners of the country, I declare that every first day of August be known as National Youth Day. Wabillahit Taufeq Walhidayah, Wassalaamu ‘Alaikum Warahmatullaahi Wabarakatuh.
Unofficial Translation of the Titah on the occasion of the National Youth Day 1 August 2006 (Courtesy of the Brunei Times)
