Kuala Lumpur: The Higher Education Ministry has been urged to emphasise ASEAN awareness among students at all its institutions to ensure Malaysia cultivates future leaders well-versed in regional affairs. Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul stressed the importance of this initiative amid global developments where strong, stable regional partnerships are vital for shared prosperity.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Tan Sri Johari Abdul highlighted that ASEAN must operate as a united bloc with mutual understanding. He emphasized the potential of the region, which comprises around 700 million people, 40 percent of whom are youth. He warned that cooperation is essential to preserve the ASEAN spirit, cautioning against potential conflicts similar to those in the Middle East, Africa, or between India and Pakistan. He underlined the importance of strengthening ASEAN’s nearly 60-year foundation of peace, freedom, and neutrality to maintain fraternal ties among its nations.

The remarks were made following the 2nd Consultation Meeting Dinner of the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly’s Young Parliamentarians Caucus (YPA) held recently. The event was attended by key figures including Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh, ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA) Secretary-General Siti Rozaimeriyanty Abdul Rahman, Selangor State Assembly Speaker Lau Weng San, and YPA Chairman Datuk Mohd Shahar Abdullah.

During the meeting, Johari, who also serves as AIPA President, noted that significant agreements were reached, focusing on enhancing ties among member states, particularly through youth parliamentary networks. He announced that Datuk Shahar would undertake an ASEAN-wide tour to promote sustained engagement among young leaders beyond the annual meetings.

The YPA meeting, held since Monday, concentrated on strengthening youth participation in policymaking and addressing key issues such as economic disparities, digital transformation, and inclusive development.