MOHE urged to strengthen Asean awareness in higher education
SHAH ALAM: The Higher Education Ministry has been urged to prioritise Asean awareness at all institutions to equip Malaysia's future leaders with a deeper understanding of regional affairs.
Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul highlighted the importance of this initiative amid global changes, stressing that strong and stable partnerships are crucial for shared prosperity.
"Asean must operate as a united bloc with mutual understanding. Our region holds immense potential, with nearly 700 million people, 40 per cent of whom are youth. Without cooperation, we risk losing the Asean spirit," he said.
He warned that failing to foster unity could result in conflicts akin to those seen in the Middle East, Africa, or India-Pakistan tensions. Asean's 60-year foundation of peace and neutrality must be further strengthened.
Johari shared his views after the 2nd Consultation Meeting Dinner of the Asean Inter-Parliamentary Assembly's Young Parliamentarians Caucus (YPA) last night, attended by notable figures including Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh, AIPA Secretary-General Siti Rozaimeriyanty Abdul Rahman, Selangor State Assembly Speaker Lau Weng San, and YPA Chairman Datuk Mohd Shahar Abdullah.
Regarding the YPA meeting, Johari—who also serves as AIPA President—said discussions focused on enhancing engagement among member states, particularly through youth parliamentary networks.
"Datuk Shahar will conduct an Asean-wide tour to foster sustained collaboration among young leaders beyond annual meetings," he added.
The three-day YPA meeting addressed key issues such as strengthening youth participation in policymaking, tackling economic disparities, advancing digital transformation, and promoting inclusive development. - BERNAMA
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