By Yasmin Ramlan
KUALA LUMPUR, May 26 — Asean nations must place greater focus on preparing youth for the future by developing a modern education ecosystem and promoting labour mobility across the region, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
Speaking to reporters after the Kuala Lumpur Declaration signing ceremony today, Zahid said the bloc’s long-term vision must ensure the region’s 680 million citizens, especially the youth, are equipped for future challenges.
“We must ensure that Asean’s 680 million people, particularly Gen Z (born 1997-2012) and Gen Alpha (born after 2010) — are given emphasis, so their future can be shaped through a new education ecosystem and greater openness in the employment system across Asean countries,” he said.
Elaborating on the declaration, signed at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, Zahid said it shows Asean’s commitment to staying united and neutral in a world with many global powers,
He said the pledge is also to prevent domination by any single country, ensuring the region remains safe and independent for the future generations.
The Kuala Lumpur Declaration on Asean 2045: Our Shared Future sets the foundation to guide the region’s development over the next two decades.
Endorsed during the 46th Asean Summit, the declaration represents a significant milestone in the bloc’s commitment to building a more resilient, innovative, dynamic and people-centred regional community.
Meanwhile, commenting on the crisis in Myanmar, Zahid said Malaysia’s current chairmanship of Asean puts it in a good position to support and facilitate dialogue.
“Malaysia’s role as Asean chair is well accepted, and this will help facilitate efforts to resolve internal issues in Myanmar,” he added.
