By Amar Shah Mohsen
SHAH ALAM, May 6 — Selangor has long prioritised the development of vibrant and empowered youth, and has rolled out initiatives aimed at fostering youth engagement, building their skills, and encouraging their civic participation.
Addressing young parliamentarians from across Asean today, Selangor Speaker Lau Weng San said the state’s efforts are designed not only to promote future leaders, but to ensure young voices help shape society and the economy.
Lau cited the Selangor Youth Assembly and Selangor Youth Community (SAY) as among key programmes initiated by the state to achieve this goal.
“The Selangor young assemblyman programme was introduced in 2013 as a platform to expose youth to research, debate, public speaking, and teamwork.
“It allows participants to gain an insight into modern democracy, the legislative process, and governance in a real-world setting.
“This programme allows youth to gain knowledge on the workings of being an assemblyman and learn how to debate on proposals tabled during the state assembly sittings,” he said.
He was delivering his opening remarks at the 2nd Consultative Meeting of Young Parliamentarians of the Asean Inter-Parliamentary Assembly, held at Wyndham Acmar Klang today.
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Participants of the 2nd Consultative Meeting of Young Parliamentarians of Asean Inter-Parliamentary Assembly seen at Wyndham Acmar Klang on May 6, 2025. — Picture by REMY ARIFIN/MEDIA SELANGOR[/caption]
Lau noted that last year, a motion passed during the state’s youth assembly was carried and debated for the first time in the Selangor State Legislative Assembly.
On SAY, Lau said it is a key initiative that serves as an avenue to connect Selangor youths to development opportunities.
“This is done through various programmes, events and activities that are designed by and for the youth.”
In his speech, Lau stressed the important role of young parliamentarians in bringing fresh perspectives, energy and enthusiasm to the legislative process.
“As young parliamentarians, we carry the weight of ensuring sustainability becomes not just a goal but a way of life and inclusivity is at the heart of every decision we make... We must ensure not one is left behind.
“We must also create opportunities for everyone, regardless of background, in order for them to participate and benefit from the solutions we create,” he said.
Lau also expressed hope that the state assembly will have more youth representatives in the future, especially women.
