Youth Economic Forum Serves As A Platform For Youths In Nation-Building

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 26 (Bernama) -- The Youth Economic Forum (YEF) 2024, which gathered over 1,200 delegates today, has provided a platform for young professionals, universities and college students to engage in discussions about Malaysia's evolving economic landscape, focusing on digital and green economy, as well as talent development.

During the closing keynote address, Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz said that whether it is through innovation in artificial intelligence (AI), entrepreneurship in green technology, or leadership in advanced manufacturing, today's youth will be shaping the nation's future. 

He emphasised that the youth need to step up and take ownership of Malaysia’s future while the government implements policies that attract businesses and investments, creating complex, high-value jobs, such as the New National Industrial Master Plan 2030 and the National Energy Transition Roadmap. 

“I want to remind you that the new economy we are building is not just for you -- it is with you. 

“We are laying the foundation for an economy that is resilient, competitive, and inclusive, driven by technology, sustainability, and innovation,” said Tengku Zafrul. 

Meanwhile, Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo, in a session during the YEF 2024 today, said that developing a talent pipeline in technology, especially in AI, is essential and that the government is currently focusing on technical and vocational education and training (TVET) to prepare youth for new market demands.

"In the digital sector, we have a similar initiative -- digital TVET or DVET. Our goal is for companies to train employees while they work, enabling them to gain degrees and advance in their careers," he added.

Earlier, Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul, in his opening remarks, said youth must be prepared to tackle future challenges and seize opportunities in the emerging economy, especially as Malaysia assumes the ASEAN chairmanship next year.

He said ASEAN presents an immense opportunity for growth and collaboration, and therefore, youth should actively contribute to the nation’s advancement by engaging in the economic landscape as leaders and entrepreneurs.

As for YEF 2024 director Ewanina Effandie, she said this year's YEF theme, “A Second Economy Takeoff: Malaysia's Path to the New Economy”, is a call to action for youth to actively shape the country’s future.

She said in order for the roadmaps and investments to be translated into meaningful economic development for Malaysia, it is crucial for the youth to drive the transformation by equipping themselves with the right skills and talent. 

Besides, Perdana Fellows Alumni Association (PFAA) president Syed Mohamed Arif Syed Abdul Rahim said that changes are essential for the youth and that they should seize the opportunities in the evolving economic landscape. 

Organised by PFAA and supported by YTL Power, the forum encourages the youth to participate in fact-based discussions to redefine Malaysia's economic landscape as Malaysia strives to become a high-income nation by 2028. 

-- BERNAMA