THE future of Malaysia’s reform agenda rests squarely on the shoulders of its youth, Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said last night, urging young people to take an active role in shaping the nation’s direction.
Speaking at the 70th anniversary dinner of Junior Chamber International (JCI) Penang, one of the state’s oldest youth organisations, Chow highlighted that meaningful reform requires more than government effort alone.
“When we hear the word ‘reform’, we often think it’s something the government must lead. And yes, we’ve a role to play. But real reform needs everyone on board, especially youth,” he said.
“We need young people to step up, share new ideas, and help shape the way forward. Because the future belongs to you.”
JCI, a global platform for young professionals and leaders, marked its milestone at the St Giles Wembley Hotel with a grand celebration attended by past and present leaders, including former Penang chief minister Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon, who made a rare public appearance.
Chow praised JCI for its enduring commitment to youth empowerment, leadership development, and community service, noting that few organisations have maintained such relevance and impact over seven decades.
“You’ve grown, adapted, and continued to make a real difference in people’s lives. You’ve helped shape young leaders, created business opportunities, and connected Penang with the wider world,” he said.
“You’ve also stood firm on your values — unity, service, and active citizenship.”
Reflecting on wider societal challenges, Chow stressed the importance of digital literacy and the ability to navigate information critically in an era of overload. He noted with pride that Penang leads the country in verifying online information reliability, citing a rate of 38.7 per cent.
He urged JCI Penang to take a leadership role in promoting awareness of artificial intelligence, digital safety, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Chow also reiterated the importance of the Penang2030 vision, which prioritises civic participation and institutional reform to empower the public.
The event drew a strong turnout of youth leaders and dignitaries, including state Youth, Sports and Health Committee chairman Daniel Gooi Zi Sen; organising chairman Tan Chin Yann; JCI Penang 2025 president William Khoo; JCI Senators Dato Ong Seng Huat and Datuk Seri Dr Yee Thiam Sun; and delegates from across Asia.
Former chief minister Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon paid tribute to JCI’s roots, recalling that the Penang chapter was introduced in 1955 by the late Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu, the state’s second chief minister.
He lauded the organisation for continuing to engage with schools and encourage civic-mindedness among students.
Reflecting on his own formative years, Koh shared that as president of the Interact Club at Methodist Boys’ School, he attended a regional Rotarian conference in Singapore in 1961 — a defining moment inspired by a speech from then-Prime Minister of Singapore, the late Lee Kuan Yew.
“I hope the JCI continues to groom young members to make it better,” Koh said. - July 27, 2025
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