Malaysia

Mr. Azuan Effendy

Azuan, 28 years old, has obtained a Degree in Law - with Honours from the International Islamic University, Malaysia. He is currently working as Assistant Grand Chamberlain at the National Palace, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

When were you elected as a RYC?
I was elected as a RYC representing Malaysia early 2008.

What are the critical issues facing youth in your country?
Unemployment.
Crisis and clash of identity - Traditional beliefs vs Modern/liberal thinking
Moral decay among youth
Drug abuse

What Policies/initiatives are being put in place to help combat these?
The governemnt have introduced an Act to govern Youth Affairs. The title of the Act is: Youth Societies and Youth Development Act (Act 668), they have also organized and initiated numerous programmesand activities to empower youth to become active citizens, willing and able to influence public life and promote healthy lifestyle and they have educated youth to join and be a member of any orgaization under the National Youth Council - there are 40 affiliate members associations.

What is your message to the youth of the Commonwealth?
Youth shouldn't be perceived as only a period of one's life; it is a state of mind; Youth should be planted with determined will, soiled with patience, flowered with vigorous emotion and persistence and watered with full idealism.