ADDIS ABABA: The will of the youth is no longer insignificant, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
With growing concerns over declining trust in institutions, digital misinformation and uneven political participation, the youth are stepping forward as champions of transparency, civic responsibility and inclusive policymaking.
The Prime Minister said the wave of Gen Z protests in several countries has made it clear that the youth prioritise good governance.
“Let us be clear; the youth are the movers of change and society should harness their energy, creativity and drive.
“This global phenomena should provide a wake-up call for governments around the world to improve the way business is done, and to cater more meaningfully to the needs of the youth,” he said.
The Prime Minister said the youth of today and the future must not wait for change to happen but must instead be the architects of change.
“Unfortunately, the youth are not treated as equal participants in the political process in large parts of the world, which in turn exacerbates negative perceptions of the government as being out-of-touch, unable to effectively address the critical challenges of our time.
“I firmly believe the youth can advocate for more inclusive structures that prioritise their voices in decision-making processes,” he said at a special lecture at the Afro-Malaysia Youth Forum.
Anwar told the participants that everywhere, including in Malaysia, the youth are masters of digital tools and technology use, and can push the agenda to greater participatory democracy, to remind the powers-that-be of the imperatives of transparency and accountability.
He also stressed the importance of South-East Asia and Global South Cooperation, pointing to the fact that both regions are well placed to further strengthen long-standing ties rooted in trade, movement of people and shared ideas for anti-colonialism and non-alignment.
“We must build bridges through bilateral partnerships and cooperation between Asean and the African Union.
“Our cooperation must be grounded in principles and guided by purpose,” he said.
The Prime Minister said Africa’s journey has never been without challenges, particularly its path towards nation-building, in a momentous era that saw the emergence of leaders with courage of conviction and exceptional tenacity.
“Today, we see the world undergoing another profound shift.
“Emerging economies of the Global South are rising, not only in economic weight but in moral and political voice.
“With this rise comes both responsibility and opportunity to help shape global governance so the international order ahead is more inclusive and equitable.”
