Unity govt convention: Engage youth in their spaces, say participants

KUALA LUMPUR: Look to the youth to get more ideas that can benefit nation building, says Datuk Nicole Wong Siaw Ting.

The MCA Youth chief said it was important to engage with the youth, be it through social media or digital platforms.

“It’s not just social media postings. You need to interact with them for better ideas," said Wong.

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“Involve them in the decision-making process as well. You won’t regret it as the youth can bring something fresh and different to the table, ” she said during the Unity Government’s youth convention at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur on Sunday (May 14).

She added that creating volunteer groups comprising youth was also crucial.

“The government and political parties should work towards this.

"We will be on the losing end if we don’t do this,” she said.

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She added that those in political parties could also work on making themselves key opinion leaders (KOL).

“Imagine if a KOL or myself brought up an idea. Which presenter would be more attractive or interesting?

“You can also consider making yourselves KOLs as well,” she said.

During the same session, PKR Youth chief Adam Adli Abdul Halim said the unity government was not cosmetic in nature but a sincere endeavour to make an effective difference in the country.

It came about despite the various differences between component parties, he added.

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“We have to put a full stop to the years of political rivalry for the sake of the country.

“It’s not easy and not something we should say on the stage alone but that really embodies (the unity),” he said.

All those attending the convention should also realise the responsibility they had to sort out their differences for the betterment of the country, he added.

“We need to show the people our commitment to form a strong government that benefits the people,” he said.

He added that the unity government was also working to identify the root issues plaguing the country.

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“We can talk about salaries and housing issues, for example, but there’s surely something underlying that we can identify and resolve,” he added.

Amanah Youth chief Mohd Hasbi Muda said this was no longer the time for component parties to point the finger, but to join hands instead.

“There are so many issues the government has to tackle.

“We also have to face a common enemy that continues a populist approach and speaks irresponsibly.

“The goal for the unity government is not only to keep the people united but also to bring the country forward,” he said.