Some believe the age shift will create pressure for younger cohorts to succeed earlier. — 123rf
THE decision to lower the official youth age bracket has sparked mixed reactions among young adults navigating work, family and social responsibilities.
While the policy aims to align youth development more closely with international standards, individuals at different stages of life express contrasting views on whether the new definition reflects their lived realities.
For nurse Rahmah (not her real name), 28, the change does not match what she sees as the international definition of youth.
“From my own personal point of view, it should even be lowered because youth is not applicable for individuals at 30,” she says.
She explains that the label of youth does not necessarily capture the real-life experiences of those who have aged into greater responsibilities.
“It does not matter whether it impacts real life experience as when you age and have more responsibility, everything will be difficult.
“A lot of things need to be taken into consideration that makes real life experience bearable.”
On the question of opportunities, Rahmah believes the shift will create pressure on younger cohorts to succeed earlier.
“There will be organisations out there and government that will come out with better benefits to accommodate people at older age group.
“It will take a long time for them to come out with the benefits. It pushes people within this age group to strive for success at an earlier stage of life.”
Eric Chong Ken Nyen, 32, takes a different view, noting that he has not felt any direct impact from the change.
“I’m not aware of any government opportunities or policies for youths. Thus, it doesn’t affect me,” he says.
Chong says the age 30 is too old to be in the youth bracket.
At the same time, he questions whether the age definition reflects the realities of those in their 30s.
“I think 30 is still considered quite old to be considered a ‘youth’ as we would have more than 10 years’ experience of working, voting and some starting their own families already.”
However, 30-year-old Jason Varughese finds the change in the age bracket is appropriate due to the evolving life experiences throughout the decades.
“The change feels appropriate as there are many differences in terms of music taste as well as following trends from 30 to 40 years of age.
“Life experience is very much different than during our parents’ time.”
Jason points out the importance of maintaining focus on those who have aged out.
At the same time, Jason points out the importance of maintaining focus on those who have aged out.
“More consideration should be given to what they have to offer instead of neglecting them due to falling under the [aged out] group.”
