Asean's future starts now: Anwar urges youth to lead the way
Speaking at the Asean Leaders' Interface with Representatives of Asean Youth during the 46th Asean Summit, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim stressed the importance of youth empowerment, praising their ability to address key issues such as fiscal stability, public health, economic coordination, and sustainable development.
"The Asean Work Plan on Youth appears to provide a solid framework to tackle many of our current concerns," he said.
"We draw immense hope from your generation – not only from your respective nations but also from the strong and cohesive core of Asean," Anwar told the youth representatives.
The Work Plan focuses on equipping young people with 21st-century and digital skills, while institutionalising their involvement in policy discussions to cultivate a future-ready generation capable of leading Asean's continued development.
Anwar commended the youth for their preparedness in presenting statements and recommendations for the Work Plan, urging Asean leaders to truly listen and ensure that young people are central to shaping the region's future.
He spoke passionately about the transformative potential of youth engagement, adding that their participation brought renewed energy to regional policy-making.
"We are compelled to increase youth representation and give you space to express yourselves. On this rare occasion, we must all listen," he said, reflecting Asean's growing commitment to inclusive governance.
Anwar also praised the spirit of unity among Asean member states, crediting the summit's success to the dedication, mutual understanding, and effective communication among regional leaders.
"The progress we have achieved is the result of our leaders' strong commitment and openness. By remaining connected, learning from one another, and working together, we are able to make timely and effective decisions," he said.
Anwar expressed optimism about the contributions of young people, acknowledging their potential to inspire hope and unity both within their own countries and across the Asean region.
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