“This is your time. You have the opportunities, the tools, the enablers, and the drive to thrive in this new economy,” said Tengku Zafrul Aziz, the minister for investment, trade and industry.

Speaking at the closing of the Youth Economic Forum today, he said the government is committed to ensuring that young Malaysians have access to jobs in line with their training, and will ensure that no region is underserved in terms of digital exposure.

While the government’s role is to help the young to succeed, it is up to them to step up and take ownership of Malaysia’s future. “The new economy we are building is not just for you — it is with you,” he said.

However, graduates must acquire dynamic skill sets, and adapt to new job trends, he said, while the government on its part will implement policies that attract businesses and investments, creating complex, high-value jobs.

Tengku Zafrul said young people would shape the Malaysia of tomorrow, “whether it is through innovation in artificial intelligence, entrepreneurship in green technology, or leadership in advanced manufacturing”.

Young Malaysians could also make a difference in strengthening Asean’s future role, as Malaysia assumes the Asean chairmanship next year. He said nearly 50% of the 680 million people in the region are below the age of 30.

Tengku Zafrul encouraged the youth to speak out through platforms such as the YEF, or by making their voices heard at elections.