KOTA KINABALU: The practice of political extremism and the constant exchange of jibes must end for the good of the younger generation, says Parti Gagasan Rakyat Sabah's (Gagasan Rakyat) youth wing chief.
Datuk Fairuz Renddan said that in its effort to become a model of political maturity, the wing would tap into the knowledge and expertise of young people instead of resorting to acts that are detrimental to society.
“We will not have a culture of extremism or hurl insults ... we must fix this (kind of culture),” he said after chairing the wing’s first committee meeting on Tuesday (May 2).
“If we as a young leadership movement play to such sentiments of hatred, that will lead to the downfall of our people.
“As such, we are trying to do something different and showcase political maturity so that we can attract young people to join us,” he added.
At a press conference on Wednesday (May 3), Fairuz, who is also Pintasan assemblyman, named the wing's committee members.
Among them were Azrul Ibrahim, who was named vice-chief; Khazarudin Kahar as assistant secretary, Mohammad Ghazali Hajiji as assistant treasurer and Barhul Sahibu as information chief.
Fairuz said they aimed to sign up 20,000 members, aged between 18 and 40, by this year.
“Sabahans are warming up to our youth wing because Gagasan Rakyat is a new party.
“This is also because the party has all the races and besides that, we just created Gahmuda, a non-governmental organisation, so that more young people will join us,” he said.
Gahmuda serves as a platform for youth activists as well as young people to contribute their ideas, energy and time to help address issues concerning the people's welfare, and also to provide help in the event of natural disasters, accidents and catastrophes, among others.
“The Gagasan Rakyat Youth will always fight for Sabah's youth to ensure that this group and their rights are always protected,” Fairuz said.
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