THE youth hold the power to shape a more resilient, innovative, and sustainable national and regional future, said Investment, Trade and Industry Minister (MITI) Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz during the launch of the Inspire Entrepreneur Day today.
Speaking to an audience of young entrepreneurs, at the event held during the JCI Inspire Fest 2025, the Minister said the event served as a testament to the strength of Malaysia’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and the immense potential within its youth.
“As the Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry, I am deeply inspired by the energy and enthusiasm at this event. Youths represent the future of Malaysia—a future built on innovation, resilience, and the unwavering determination to create meaningful change,” he said.
Tengku Zafrul said the country’s true strength lies not just in its infrastructure or natural resources but in the ingenuity and drive of its people.
“Youths are the ones who dare to dream big, who see challenges as opportunities, and who have the courage to take risks in pursuit of your vision. It is this spirit that has propelled Malaysia forward and will continue to do so in the years to come,” he added.
Highlighting the government’s New Industrial Master Plan 2030 (NIMP 2030), the Minister described it as a national blueprint aimed at positioning Malaysia as a global leader in advanced manufacturing, green technology, and high-value services.
“But let me be clear: the success of this plan does not rest solely on government initiatives or policy frameworks. It relies on you—the passionate changemakers, the problem-solvers, and the visionaries who are willing to take bold steps to transform ideas into reality,” he said.
Tengku Zafrul also urged young Malaysian entrepreneurs to seize opportunities not only within the country but across ASEAN, a region with nearly 300 million youth.
“This makes ASEAN one of the most youthful and dynamic regions in the world, with immense potential for innovation, economic growth, and social transformation,” he said. “Whether it’s through digital transformation, sustainable development, or inclusive business models, you have the power to shape the future of not just Malaysia, but the entire ASEAN region.”
With Malaysia set to assume the ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025, the Minister outlined the twin pillars of the country’s regional leadership agenda: inclusivity and sustainability.
“Inclusivity means ensuring that no one is left behind—that every young person, regardless of their background or circumstances, has the opportunity to contribute to and benefit from our economic growth,” he said. “Sustainability means building a future that is not only economically prosperous but also environmentally responsible and socially equitable.”
He called on young entrepreneurs to recognise their central role in the country’s economic future, acknowledging the hurdles of the entrepreneurial journey.
“The entrepreneurial journey is not always easy. There will be setbacks, challenges, and moments of doubt. What sets successful entrepreneurs apart is their ability to persevere, adapt, and learn from failure,” he said.
Tengku Zafrul urged attendees to pursue their ambitions while making a broader social impact.
“Entrepreneurship is not just about individual achievement; it’s about creating value for society. Whether it’s through job creation, community development, or innovative solutions to pressing challenges, your work has the power to make a lasting impact,” he said.
“Let’s leverage the strength of our diversity, the power of our ideas, and the resilience of our entrepreneurial spirit to build a brighter, more inclusive, and sustainable future for Malaysia and ASEAN.” – April 18, 2025
