Empowering Young Leaders to Drive Climate Solutions in ASEAN
ASEAN’s Future Leaders: A Force for Change
Young people in ASEAN have the potential to drive impactful climate solutions, given their strong awareness of environmental challenges, said Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability, Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad. However, he stressed the need for proper platforms to amplify their voices, along with meaningful support from the government, private sector, and non-governmental organisations (NGOs).
A Growing Sense of Urgency
"Young people are highly aware of climate issues as they experience worsening dry spells, air pollution, haze, and floods firsthand. They understand the environmental consequences," he explained. "But they also want to know how they can contribute and what kind of support is available from governments, businesses, and NGOs. Ultimately, systemic changes require action at the governmental and corporate levels."
Individual Efforts and Systemic Change
"Individual efforts are important, but without backing from policymakers and industry leaders, their impact will be limited," he told reporters after officiating the ASEAN Youth Economic Forum (AYEF) 2025.
AYEF 2025: A Platform for Young Leaders
AYEF 2025, a three-day event beginning today, brings together young leaders from ASEAN, Japan, and Timor Leste under the theme Climate Change and Building a Climate-Resilient Economy. Participants will engage with policymakers, industry experts, and fellow youth representatives, aligning with the ASEAN 2025 Chairmanship’s focus on Inclusivity and Sustainability.
Reimagining ASEAN’s Role
"It is essential to provide platforms for young voices, as many may not fully grasp ASEAN’s significance in their daily lives," he said. "When ASEAN was founded, it played a critical role in addressing Cold War tensions, poverty, and economic instability. People understood its importance then. But today, with increasing geopolitical challenges, the need for balanced economic growth, and pressing environmental concerns, ASEAN’s role is more crucial than ever. We must redefine its purpose to address modern realities."
AYEF 2025: A Call to Action
AYEF 2025, in a statement, said the three-day event is hosting 32 funded delegates from ASEAN Member States (AMS), Japan, and Timor Leste, prioritising young leaders aged 18 to 35 with backgrounds in climate action, environmental policy, sustainability, or economic development. Delegates will take part in high-level panel discussions, policy workshops, and site visits to sustainable infrastructure projects in Malaysia.
A Roadmap for Climate Action
The forum aims to strengthen ASEAN-Japan collaboration on climate resilience, empower youth to shape national and regional climate policies, advance sustainable infrastructure and green technology, and accelerate climate adaptation strategies through innovative financial models and public-private partnerships.
Conclusion
Empowering young leaders to drive climate solutions is crucial for a sustainable future. By providing platforms for their voices to be heard and supporting their initiatives, we can harness the collective energy and creativity of the next generation to address the pressing challenges of our time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the role of young people in addressing climate change?
A: Young people are highly aware of climate issues and have the potential to drive impactful climate solutions.
Q: What is the need for proper platforms to amplify their voices?
A: Young people need proper platforms to amplify their voices, along with meaningful support from the government, private sector, and non-governmental organisations (NGOs).
Q: What is the significance of AYEF 2025?
A: AYEF 2025 is a platform for young leaders to engage with policymakers, industry experts, and fellow youth representatives, aligning with the ASEAN 2025 Chairmanship’s focus on Inclusivity and Sustainability.