PETALING JAYA: The skills gap, sub-optimal vocational training, and limited access to technological advancements remain significant issues faced by the younger generation, particularly in the post-pandemic era, says Nurul Izzah Anwar.
The Social Economic Research Initiatives (Seri) chairman highlighted that Malaysia experienced one of the longest school closures during the Covid-19 pandemic, which posed challenges for a generation of students, especially those in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programmes.
“TVET students were the most affected during the pandemic as their coursework required in-person training, which could not be substituted with online learning.
“This generation has notably felt the impact as we move into the post-pandemic period,” she said during the Asia News Network (ANN) panel discussion on Asia’s Youth and their Future here on Friday (Sept 6).
She further stated that despite advancements such as artificial intelligence and automation, access remains limited, benefitting only a select few.
Nurul Izzah was the chief guest of the discussion, which also featured Thailand’s The Nation editor-in-chief Patpon Artie Sabpaithune, Myanmar’s Eleven Media Group executive director Min Thaw Htut, and Fung Global distinguished fellow Tan Sri Andrew Sheng. The session was moderated by Star Media Group senior news editor Philip Golingai.
“During my last tenure as MP, we conducted a quality index study that included Covid-related measurements to assess internet access, the ability to continue online studies, and the availability of gadgets.
“Unfortunately, the disruption caused by the pandemic led to significant losses for generations,” she said.
Nurul Izzah also stressed the importance of acknowledging the struggles of the younger generation as they navigate the aftermath of the pandemic, healthcare scares, and other uncertainties.
She added that adaptability should not only be demanded of the youth but should also be practised by the older generation.
“As a politician, I found it challenging to engage with the community and adapt to new communication dynamics.
“While it is easy to demand change from others, it is equally important to reflect on and change our own behaviour," she stressed.
Acknowledging that each generation faces its own set of challenges, she called for a less judgmental approach.
“Youth must feel recognised, not patronised,” she concluded.
ANN is a leading regional alliance of news organisations committed to bringing the region closer through active sharing of editorial content.
Formed in 1999, the network includes members from the 10 South-East Asian economies as well as several other locations in East and South Asia.
Apart from Malaysia, member media outlets are from Bhutan, Cambodia, China, Hong Kong, Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, Japan, Myanmar, Nepal, the Philippines, Thailand, Singapore, South Korea and Vietnam.
