Asean Youth Dialogue delegates call for inclusive policies for sustainable development
KUALA LUMPUR: Asean leaders must demonstrate a strong awareness and commitment to addressing challenges in the region, say Asean Youth Dialogue delegates.
They also called for equitable, inclusive and sustainable youth participation and leadership in fostering the regional bloc's socioeconomic development.
In a statement, the delegates called upon Asean member states to renew their commitment to empowering youth to take decisive actions in achieving the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, the UN Pact for the Future and the Asean Work Plan on Youth 2021-2025, among others.
'We also strongly encourage member states to enhance the health and well-being of young people through targeted policies, initiatives and programmes that raise awareness on critical health issues.
'Member states are also urged to intensify collaboration with relevant stakeholders and organisations to address systemic barriers and expand inclusive social assistance and protection programmes,' they said in conjunction with the 4th Asean Youth Dialogue held here on Monday (May 26).
Earlier Monday, during the 46th Asean Summit, an interface was held with the representatives of Asean youth.
Asean Youth Dialogue delegates called for better encouragement from member states to implement accessible educational and advanced skills training programmes tailored to the diverse needs of youth, including artificial intelligence.
'Awareness programmes should also be intensified to encourage safe and healthy social media use among Asean youth in combatting cybercrimes like misinformation, disinformation, cyberbullying and online scams,' it said.
They also recommended better investment towards inclusive infrastructure, considering planetary health approaches to address urban-rural disparity and recognising the importance of involving youths in the sustainable development of both rural and urban landscapes.
'We encourage member states to also develop policy and institutional frameworks, including mechanisms that foster innovation and entrepreneurship,' it said. Also, it urges the continuing promotion of intercultural exchanges among youths.
They said member states should also accelerate climate action alongside addressing biodiversity loss, disaster management, adaptation and mitigation measures to address the growing impact of environmental challenges.
'We appreciate Asean leaders' commitment to empowering youth as one of the key factors towards our joint sustainable future. Together, through intergenerational collaboration and innovation, we will create an inclusive ecosystem that nurtures and amplifies youth voices,' it said.
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