KUALA LUMPUR: Listen to the voices of our children, for they are the heirs to the nation’s future, says Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri (pic).
The Women, Family and Community Development Minister said that children learn from the actions and struggles of their parents and society.
“Children learn from us - the way we act and what we fight for serve as their guide. It is our responsibility as parents, educators, and community leaders to shape a morally grounded, competitive, and compassionate generation,” she said at the 2024 National Children’s Day celebration at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur (WTCKL) on Sunday (Nov 24).
The wife of the Prime Minister, who is also Bandar Tun Razak MP, Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail was also present at the event.
This year’s theme, “Dengarlah Suara Kami” (Listen to Our Voices), aligns with the international theme Listen to the Future, Nancy said.
She said both underscore the need to include children’s perspectives and aspirations in policymaking, education and national development.
Nancy also extended her encouragement to children: “Do not be afraid to dream big. The world is yours, and we will continue to work hard to ensure you can reach your full potential.”
Since Malaysia ratified the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) in 1995, she said significant progress has been made to protect children’s welfare, including the implementation of the Child Act 2001, which has been continuously improved.
However, Nancy stressed the need for vigilance, citing ongoing reports of abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
“This is where the community plays a crucial role. Each of us must act as the eyes and ears to report these cases and ensure the children around us are safe,” she added.
The celebration also featured awards recognising children and organisations for their contributions and achievements.
These included the Pingat Hang Tuah Award, which was awarded to 14-year-old Muhammad Asri Rosli from Rawang, Selangor, for saving his friend’s life from an electric shock incident on Oct 2.
Other awards celebrated excellence in culture, arts, sports, academic achievements, and contributions by NGOs and private corporations through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives for children’s needs.
