Programmes that welcome public participation in conjunction with MCA Youth 70th anniversary celebration included a National Youth Run in Selangor, Terengganu, Perak and Kuala Lumpur; the TEMAN Youth Transformation Camp, and the Malaysian Chinese Youth Summit, says Ling. With him were Chong (left) and Saw (right).—LOW BOON TAT/The Star
KUALA LUMPUR: MCA Youth is marking its 70th anniversary by opening its doors to the public with a series of engaging events across Malaysia.
Its national chairman Ling Tian Soon, said that these activities were designed to foster community spirit and youth engagement, with the public warmly invited to participate.
"We are excited to welcome everyone to join our celebration through events like the National Youth Run, the TEMAN Youth Transformation Camp, and the Malaysian Chinese Youth Summit.
"These programmes are not only a celebration of our past achievements but also a step towards empowering the youth of today," he said in a press conference at Wisma MCA here on Thursday (Aug 21).
Also present were MCA Youth deputy chairman Mike Chong Yew Chuan, secretary-general Saw Yee Fung and other youth leaders.
The National Youth Run has already been hosted in five locations and will continue in Klang, Selangor (Sept 21), Dungun, Terengganu (Oct 10), Kampung Chui Chak, Perak (Oct 11) and culminate at Wisma MCA in Kuala Lumpur on Oct 19.
Additionally, the TEMAN Youth Transformation Camp, themed "Leadership Grows in the Wild," is scheduled for September 26 to 28 in Hutan Lipur Gunung Pulai, Johor.
Chong noted that the camp marks a return after several years of hiatus, including due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
"The TEMAN youth camp used to be a very popular programme by the MCA Youth. It has gathered young people, university students and graduates for camping and training in the wild.
"These activities are more than just outdoor experiences; they are fun and also instrumental in nurturing leadership, resilience and teamwork among our youth.
"Such skills are crucial for youths' personal development and nation-building. We are glad to bring it back, and we call on all young people to join us—don’t miss out," he said.
On Nov 15, the Malaysian Chinese Youth Summit will take place at Wisma MCA, focusing on the theme "Bridging Past and Future: Challenges and Opportunities for Chinese Youth."
Chong said the summit is an ideal platform for youth to voice out, as it steers clear of political discussions and instead delves into the challenges and future directions for young people.
"In today's rapidly changing landscape, especially with advancements in artificial intelligence technology and the evolving macroeconomic environment, it's crucial for our youth to understand these dynamics.
"The summit will provide insights and foster discussions that prepare them to navigate these challenges and seize opportunities, contributing to both their personal growth and the nation's development," Chong said.
In addition to public events, MCA Youth is also hosting internal activities aimed at strengthening bonds among its members.
These include the National Political Debate Showcase, set for November 9 at the San Choon Hall of Wisma MCA, where popular debaters will tackle current political issues.
The MCA Youth National Sports Day, which is set to take place on Nov 29 at Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology KL Campus, featuring basketball, badminton, football, pickleball and tug-of-war competitions.
The celebrations will culminate with a grand 70th Anniversary Gala Dinner on the same day at the Tan Sri Yeoh Tiong Lay Hall at Wisma Huazong.
"These internal activities are crucial for building camaraderie and developing leadership within our ranks," Ling added.
He also said that the launch of the MCA Youth 70th anniversary commemorative book would coincide with the MCA Youth National Assembly, with the exact date to be announced later.
A special highlight of the anniversary gala dinner on November 29 will be the opening of a time capsule sealed a decade ago by former Youth chief and current party secretary-general Datuk Chong Sin Woon.
The time capsule contains a letter written by Chong to the MCA Youth of today, offering a unique glimpse into the past and aspirations for the future.
For more details or registration, those interested can contact the MCA Youth secretariat at 03-2716 5932/5934/5935, visit the Facebook page "MCA National Youth," or log on to its official website at https://youth.mca.org.my/1/Anniversary/Anniversary70
