Addis Ababa, November 21, 2025 – The Europe Today: Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has emphasized the critical role of youth as drivers of societal and political change, stating that “the will of the youth is no longer insignificant.” Speaking at a special lecture during the Afro-Malaysia Youth Forum, he highlighted the growing importance of youth engagement amid concerns over declining trust in institutions, digital misinformation, and uneven political participation.
The Prime Minister pointed to recent waves of Gen Z protests in several countries as evidence that young people increasingly prioritize good governance. “Let us be clear; the youth are the movers of change, and society should harness their energy, creativity, and drive. This global phenomenon should serve as a wake-up call for governments worldwide to improve governance and address the needs of young people more meaningfully,” he said.
Anwar Ibrahim stressed that the youth must not wait for change to occur but instead be the architects of transformation. He lamented that in many parts of the world, young people are not treated as equal participants in the political process, which fuels negative perceptions of governments as out-of-touch and unable to address critical challenges. “I firmly believe the youth can advocate for more inclusive structures that prioritize their voices in decision-making processes,” he added.
The Prime Minister also noted the youth’s mastery of digital tools and technology, which positions them to advance participatory democracy and demand transparency and accountability.
In his address, Anwar highlighted the importance of cooperation between Southeast Asia and the Global South, citing historical ties rooted in trade, the movement of people, and shared anti-colonial and non-alignment principles. “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.
Reflecting on Africa’s journey, the Prime Minister acknowledged the continent’s challenges in nation-building and the emergence of leaders with courage and 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 that the international order ahead is more inclusive and equitable,” he added.
The forum provided a platform for youth leaders to engage on issues of transparency, governance, and international cooperation, underscoring the pivotal role of young people in shaping the future of both national and global governance.
