If I were to reflect on my journey with Pusat Belia Youth-PREP (YPC), three phrases come to mind: Dreams come true, Empowering the young, and Evolving dreams. These words capture the essence of YPC’s mission: a place where aspirations take shape, youth find their voice, and new challenges inspire growth.

Dreams Come True: The Birth of a Safe Haven for Youth

Before YPC was established, PKGS (now GSS) launched YouthPREPLink in 2005 to address a critical issue: rural-urban migration. For many young people, moving to the city was not just a transition, it was a nightmare. Unprepared for urban life, many faced culture shock, exploitation, scams, and even substance abuse, leading to deeper social problems.

We dreamed of a youth drop-in centre, a safe space where young people could connect, access vital information, and receive guidance on education, financial aid, and emotional support. That dream materialised on 25 March 2010, thanks to Sabah Credit Corporation (SCC)’s corporate social responsibility initiative. A building in Alamesra became the first Youth-PREP Centre (YPC), starting with just one floor. Today, it has expanded to three floors, serving countless young lives.

Empowering the Young: Building Confidence, Leadership, and Hope

YPC’s greatest achievement is not just its existence, it’s the transformation it sparks in young people. In the early days, our small but passionate team of four members worked tirelessly, engaging youth from all walks of life to shape YPC’s programmes. We listened to their struggles and ideas, turning their input into action.

Youth Leading Youth

We trained young volunteers to “animate” their peers using creative methods like:

• ‘Voice Out’ events – Giving youth a platform to share their thoughts.

• Sketch performances – Using drama to highlight social issues.

• Youth forums – Open discussions on challenges they face.

• Outreach programmes – Bringing awareness campaigns to rural areas.

Awareness and Advocacy

YPC became a hub for social activism, organising campaigns such as: 

• One Billion Rising (against gender-based violence)

• Earth Hour (promoting environmental consciousness)

• International Youth Day (celebrating young changemakers)

• 16 Days of Activism (fighting violence against women and girls)

• “My Constitution” workshops (educating youth on their rights)

Breaking Barriers: The Power of Confidence

One of my most memorable moments was watching shy, hesitant youth conquer their fear of speaking English. Many initially avoided it, afraid of mistakes, judgment, or misunderstanding. But through patient mentorship, interactive lessons, and encouragement, they not only gained confidence they went on to organise English storytelling sessions for children in rural Sabah villages.

Empowerment, to me, is seeing a young person stand tall, proud of their growth, knowing they have overcome obstacles with courage.

Evolving Dreams: Adapting to New Challenges

Youth needs are ever-changing, and YPC continues to grow with them. When the COVID-19 pandemic struck, it exposed deeper crises which are urban poverty, mental health struggles, and emotional distress among students and families. YPC responded by expanding its mission beyond migration support to include:

• Mental health initiatives – Launching KawanBAH Careline (16 July 2020), a helpline for youth in need of emotional support.

• Food security – Establishing a food bank for struggling students.

• Safe spaces – Providing a cozy, welcoming environment for youth far from home.

Today, YPC stands as Kota Kinabalu’s only youth drop-in centre offering these vital services. But our vision doesn’t stop here. As youth needs evolve, so do we committed to empowering lives, restoring rights, and upholding the dignity of future generations.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Hope

From a small dream in 2005 to a thriving youth hub today, YPC’s journey proves that when we invest in young people, society grows stronger. Dreams do come true. Young people can and do change the world. And the work never stops, because every generation deserves a brighter future.

YPC is more than a centre. It’s a movement, a family, and a beacon of hope for Sabah’s youth. And as long as there are young people with dreams, YPC will be there—guiding, supporting, and evolving with them.