Anwar Ibrahim calls for active youth leadership in national development

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has called for youth to be given more active roles in national development, asserting that they should be viewed as leaders of the present rather than just leaders of the future. Speaking at the opening of the Youth Economic Forum 2026 in Kuala Lumpur, he emphasized that young people must be involved in determining the country's direction.

Anwar stated that while freedom of speech is essential, it must be accompanied by responsibility, critical thinking, and the mastery of knowledge. He urged the younger generation to avoid fanaticism toward specific individuals, political parties, or races, and instead base their actions on truth, justice, and human values.

Furthermore, the Prime Minister highlighted the importance of national unity, advising youth to view diversity as a strength. He warned against allowing racial or religious differences to cause division, noting that the country's stability depends on a shared commitment to national dignity and unity.