By Alexander Kevin
SARIKEI – Sarikei Youth Day 2026 (SYD2026) emerged as a profound and spirit- filled gathering, uniting approximately 160 young people and invited guests from across Sarawak in a powerful expression of faith, communion, and hope.
Held under the radiant theme “Shine In Hope,” the three-day celebration became more than an event—it was a living pilgrimage of hearts, where youth encountered Christ through prayer, community, and mission.
SYD2026 also stands as an “echoes” of the Malaysian Catholic Youth Day (MCYD), with nearly 90 percent of its formation, encounters, and spiritual content shared in continuity—signifying a growing national movement of youth formation within the Church in Malaysia.
At its core, the gathering was deeply rooted in the Church’s pastoral vision, embracing four foundational dimensions: Ecology, Church, Family, and Society. These pillars shaped reflections, dialogues, and prayer experiences, calling young people to become stewards of creation, active members of the Church, faithful witnesses in family life, and compassionate builders of society.
The Opening Eucharist, presided over by Bishop Joseph Hii, Bapa Uskup of the Diocese of Sibu, set a deeply reverent tone for the entire program.
A particularly stirring moment was the spiritual direction shared by Fr Sylvester Ngau Juk, who echoed a powerful call to mission with the words: “Sinar, Salib, Sebar”—a profound reminder that the light of Christ must shine, the cross must be embraced, and the Gospel must be shared without fear.
Throughout SYD2026, participants were immersed in moments of spiritual renewal through the Festival of Praise led by the Focus On Christ (FOC) team, vibrant youth sessions, and the contemplative beauty of Taizé prayer facilitated by young people from the Archdiocese of Kuching.
Powerful testimonies were delivered by Anna Teresa (Diocese of Sandakan) and Lucy Gumek (Archdiocese of Kuching, IFFA Alumni), whose words stirred hearts toward deeper discipleship, courage in faith, and commitment to mission in daily life.
The event gathered youth from multiple parishes including St Anthony Sarikei, Christ the King Bintangor, St Mary Sibu, St Michael Sibu Jaya, Immaculate Conception Kapit, Sacred Heart Cathedral, St Bernard Dalat, and Sts Peter and Paul Mukah, alongside participants from the Diocese of Miri and other dioceses across the region—manifesting a true spirit of ecclesial communion.
Beyond the liturgical and programmatic richness, SYD2026 was also a testimony of humble service. The Ladies Guild, led by Puan Monica Normie, provided meals throughout the event with generosity and devotion, ensuring that every participant was nourished in body as well as spirit.
Support from sponsors, especially Rimbunan Sawit Berhad, alongside contributions from various parish communities and technical support from Beesamah MCP Team, made the gathering possible and well-coordinated.
The entire journey was carried by the dedication of the Main Organizing Team (MOT) and Local Organizing Team (LOT), together with youth movements and alumni networks across Sarawak and beyond.
More than a program, SYD2026 became a sacred encounter of communion and mission, strengthening the unity of youth within the Diocese of Sibu and the wider Church.
The fruits of this gathering will be brought forward as a youth synthesis to the upcoming Malaysian Pastoral Convention in Sibu, contributing to the Church’s ongoing discernment of mission in Malaysia.
In its closing spirit, SYD2026 stands as a gentle yet powerful reminder:
when young hearts gather in Christ, hope does not fade—it shines brighter. – Today’s Catholic
