Play role to shape nation’s future, youths told

As heirs of the nation, the younger generation plays a crucial role in highlighting mature politics that could indirectly help shape the country towards a better future.

Since youths aged 18 can now vote in elections, it is crucial that they have peer guidance to help them properly evaluate and disseminate the vast amount of political related information, particularly in cyberspace.

Malaysian Youth Council president Mohd Izzat Afifi Abdul Hamid said it is the responsibility of youths to rectify any inaccurate information and facts in order to increase the community’s access to reliable information.

He said young people, who are the most active users of social media, should be the first to check and verify all news and information.

“Young people and youths should be the ones who mobilise the cultural renewal agenda and noble attitude.

“The council hopes that today’s young people will have more positive attitudes and good values to ensure a better future for the country,” he said yesterday.

He was responding to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s call for youths in the country to play a role in helping the government deflect accusations from certain parties in today’s political and economic landscape.

Meanwhile, Universiti Putra Malaysia Youth Development lecturer Assoc Prof Dr Mohd Mursyid Arshad said by sharing their knowledge, values and commitment, youths can contribute to the betterment of the nation’s future.

“Youths, as the next generation, will be in charge of developing the nation by putting in new ideas and making suggestions to the government through the right channels.

“They must also put emphasis on innovation and continue to contribute their energy and expertise to the country,” he said.

He added that in the context of youth development, the government could translate the involvement of youths in the national development agenda through their participation in various sectors, including education and the economy. – Bernama