YOUTHS represent the future and that is why the state government is undertaking various efforts to empower them, says Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.
Chow was speaking at the ‘The Boys’ Brigade Founder’s Day’ celebration, themed ‘Restart,’ at the Penang City Park (formerly known as Youth Park) this evening.
It was organised by the Penang State Council The Boys’ Brigade in Malaysia.
“It is wonderful to see so many young people here, whether they are a part of the organising team or here just to participate in the event.
“The youth are truly the embodiment of the future.
“That is why the state government has consistently invested in the development and empowerment of our youth.
“Numerous programmes have been carried out over the years by state government agencies such as the Penang Youth Development Corporation (PYDC).
“The programmes include the Penang Young Digital Talent, Youth Eco Generation Campaign, International Youth Conference, and many others,” Chow said.
He also thanked the Boys’ Brigade for promoting obedience, reverence, discipline, and self-respect among the youth since its founding in 1946 (Penang).
He said the theme of the event – ‘Restart’ is a simple yet powerful word that is so apt in this post-pandemic era.
“I understand that the pandemic has hampered many of the usual activities of the Boys’ Brigade, as it has for everyone else.
“Hence, it is fitting that the theme of your event is ‘Restart’.
“It is such a straightforward word, yet, its meaning, that is to begin again and to begin anew is powerful.
“Envision yourself as the person you want to be in the future and make efforts to become that person.
“With the guidance of your trainers and mentors and the company of your friends, restart with new habits and goals, and work towards building a better future, because you, the youth, are the future,” he said.
Apart from that, Chow also encouraged the officers and trainers to continue helping to develop youths to become promising young men and women.
“The state government earlier had formed the Penang Youth Committee in all the 40 constituencies across the state, and has appointed a pioneer batch of 400 young men and women.
“This is to mould young people into competent and respectable future leaders by encouraging them in community involvement at the respective state constituencies.
“We want our youths to discover their hidden talents, leadership qualities, enhance their level of competitiveness and competency, and above all, to enable themselves to be of service to others in their local communities,” he added.
At the event, a prize-giving ceremony also took place for ‘The Boys’ Brigade in Malaysia Penang State Council Drill Competition 2022’.
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix & video by Siew Chia En