By Alleyhandra Celio anak Anis, Media Volunteer Sarawak Mission
Tuesday, 21 July 2026
The Seventh-day Adventist Mission of Sarawak successfully organized the Senior Youth Leader (SYL) Training on 18 July 2026 at Ayer Manis School Hall, Serian. The one-day training gathered 130 participants from churches across Sarawak, bringing together young people who are passionate about serving God through youth ministry. The program was designed to strengthen leadership skills, encourage teamwork, help participants discover their God-given purpose, and prepare them to make a lasting impact in their churches and communities.
The training began with registration, worship, and an opening prayer, followed by a series of presentations led by experienced pastors and youth leaders. Throughout the day, participants learned about the history, vision, and structure of Adventist Youth Ministries, youth development, current challenges faced by young people, spiritual leadership, mentoring, church planning, creative youth ministry, spiritual gifts, youth evangelism, and digital ministry. The sessions were presented by Pr. Chan Tin Loi, Timothy Suwai, Sylvia Vincent, Macklin Peter, Pr. Jeremea Ladin, Pr. Eric Sanjay, and Pr. Gibson Sumbang, who shared both biblical principles and practical ideas to help participants become effective leaders in today’s world.
A special charge was delivered by Pr. Brian Scott Padam, Executive Secretary of the Seventh-day Adventist Mission of Sarawak. He encouraged the participants to be a light wherever they go, especially among young people, and reminded them to prepare their hearts for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. Referring to Matthew 28:19–20, he challenged every participant to faithfully carry out Christ’s Great Commission by making disciples and baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. His message reminded everyone that true leadership is about serving others and leading people closer to Jesus.
The success of the training was made possible through the dedication of many individuals who served in different roles. The program was coordinated by Timothy Suwai, Chairman of the Sarawak Mission Youth Department, with Timothy Suwai and Sylvia Vincent serving as masters of ceremony. The organizing committee, trainers, worship teams, registration team, audio-visual and technical team, food committee, and many other volunteers worked together to ensure the program ran smoothly and provided a meaningful learning experience for all participants.
The Senior Youth Leader Training concluded with a certificate presentation and group photo session before participants returned to their respective churches. As the training came to an end, participants left with renewed passion, practical knowledge, and a stronger commitment to serve God through youth ministry. It is our prayer that the lessons learned will continue to guide these young leaders as they faithfully serve their churches, reach more young people for Christ, and prepare the next generation for His soon return. To God be all the glory.
Youth Ministry Department
