Kuala Lumpur: The ASEAN Work Plan on Youth serves as a strategic framework to address substantive issues, including political stability, economic matters, sustainability, and climate change, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. Considering these challenges, Anwar emphasized the importance of addressing them for the benefit of the younger generation.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar urged ASEAN youth to be vocal, principled, and conscious of contemporary demands, highlighting their vital role in shaping the region's future. "What is critical for the youth is to be effective in the expression, voice of conscience, and be aware of the demands of the times," he stated during his opening remarks at the 4th ASEAN Leaders' Interface with Representatives of ASEAN Youth.
Anwar noted that ASEAN leaders commended youth delegates at the Interface session, reaffirming their commitment to youth empowerment and regional cohesion. He expressed gratitude and acknowledged the significant hope placed on the youth to not only represent their countries but also to foster a strong ASEAN bond.
Anwar highlighted the success of ASEAN as a result of the commitment of the bloc's leaders, encouraging the young generation to learn and work closely with them. "It's just so comfortable to work with them, to communicate with them, to learn from them - and of course, because of this, we are able to decide fast and speedily," he added.
The 4th ASEAN Leaders' Interface with Representatives of ASEAN Youth was part of the ongoing 46th ASEAN Summit. Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh and her deputy Adam Adli Abdul Halim were also present at the event.
The 46th ASEAN Summit, under Malaysia's 2025 Chairmanship theme 'Inclusivity and Sustainability,' marks Malaysia's fifth term as ASEAN Chair. Previously, Malaysia held the chairmanship in 1977, 1997, 2005, and 2015. In conjunction with the summit, the 2nd ASEAN-GCC Summit and the inaugural ASEAN-GCC-China Summit will be convened, serving as platforms to advance regional and inter-regional cooperation.