STATEMENT : 80TH UNGA HIGH LEVEL MEETING TO COMMEMORATE THE 30TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE WORLD PROGRAMME OF ACTION FOR YOUTH

STATEMENT BY

MR. AZREEY ABU KASSIM

DELEGATE OF MALAYSIA TO THE 80^TH SESSION OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY

80^TH UNGA HIGH LEVEL MEETING TO COMMEMORATE THE 30^TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE WORLD PROGRAMME OF ACTION FOR YOUTH

Honourable Chair and distinguished delegates,

It is my honour to address this High-Level Meeting on behalf of Malaysia as we mark the thirtieth anniversary of the World Programme of Action for Youth.

2. Malaysia believes that young people are not merely the leaders of tomorrow, but essential partners for today. In Malaysia, we are turning this belief into concrete action. One of the most significant steps we have taken is the landmark constitutional amendment known as "Undi18", which lowered the national voting age from 21 to 18. This was more than a change in policy; it was a declaration of trust. It empowered millions of young Malaysians, giving them a direct and undeniable stake in our democracy and a say in the governance of their country.

3. However, inclusion cannot stop at the ballot box. Our comprehensive Malaysian Youth Policy and the new MADANI Youth Development Model 2030 were designed to build holistic capacities and confront post-pandemic realities, focusing on well-being and inclusive growth.  Malaysia is also reforming its core youth legislation. From 1st January 2026, we will officially recognise our youth as those aged between 15 to below 30 years of age. This is our investment in a new generation, placing them at the forefront of leadership.

4. Through our National Youth Consultative Council, young representatives from across the nation have the opportunity to debate critical issues, from climate action and digital economy to social welfare. They craft resolutions that are formally presented to our government. This initiative ensures that the perspectives of our youth are channelled directly to policymakers, bridging the gap between aspiration and policy making.

5. This is complemented by action orientated initiatives like our revitalised Rakan Muda programme, an inclusive initiative that allows youth to invest their free time wisely through ten lifestyle approaches. Furthermore, we have introduced volunteer programmes involving youth such as MyCorps and SATRIA that aims to nurture civic leadership.

Honourable Chair and distinguished delegates,

6. Looking ahead, let our youth collective action be bold. Challenge the old ways of thinking with new, innovative solutions. Build bridges where others have built walls. Malaysia reaffirms its steadfast commitment to the empowerment of youth as agents of change and partners in development. By equipping young people with the skills, opportunities, and platforms to lead, we are investing not only in their future but in the collective future of our nations. Let us continue to nurture their innovation, amplify their voices, and entrust them with the responsibility to shape a more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable world.

Thank you.

[422 words, 3 minutes at 140 words/minute]