Kota Kinabalu: The State Government should strengthen engagement with artists, sports personalities and university students as strategic partners with broad influence in society, said Government Backbenchers Club (BBC) Chairman Datuk Masiung Banah (pic).Masiung said the BBC is proposing an informal forum bringing the three groups together with government representatives to provide frank feedback and fresh ideas on issues affecting Sabah.
“We believe artists, sports personalities and intellectuals should have a close relationship with the Government and not feel marginalised,” said Masiung, who is also Kuamut Assemblyman.
He said artists could raise issues affecting the creative industry, including welfare, copyright and funding, while athletes could contribute views on the direction of sports and investment in facilities as well as their prospects after retirement.
Masiung said university students should also be engaged as technology-savvy young people who could contribute ideas, communicate with their communities and peers, and support efforts against leakages and abuse of power.
