WE often label youths as our ultimate saviours and future leaders.
This approach was most evident prior to the 14th General Election as young voters were touted as major game changers, at least in the political equation.
The youths responded positively, returning to their respective hometowns in droves to vote.
University students and professionals braved the traffic, returning home to cast their ballots and fight for their individual rights.
The collective spirit displayed by this group of young people inspired the nation as adults were impressed with their resilience to sacrifice for Malaysia.
One year on, the mood has toned down and the younger generation is clearly showing their dismay and displeasure towards the policymakers.
Many figures have downplayed the efforts and rigour of the hopeful youths.
Earlier this month, Human Resources Minister M. Kula Segaran reiterated this adverse stand in Parliament by proclaiming that “the biggest challenge is the youths who are unwilling to take up around 640,000 available employment opportunities across diverse sectors”.
Malaysians should be proud of our youths. They have shown time and again that they do possess the right attitude to succeed in this challenging environment.
Stories of qualified engineers becoming food delivery riders and graduates resorting to freelance jobs for the sake of income generation have dictated social media posts.
Statements made by ministers, politicians and union representatives are destructive and demotivating indeed.
Repeated attempts to blame youths’ inefficiency are further supported by equally discouraging words from top industry players, often highlighting a lack of skills as the main issue behind youth unemployment while the actual facts behind selective workforce intake and the desire to remain financially prudent while ignoring employee wellbeing are swept under the carpet.
Malaysians must look beyond themselves and view the bigger picture. If we remain trapped within the confines of racial and religious undertones, the majority of our “future leaders” will be stuck in an inescapable bubble.
Notable components must be revisited to ensure that youths are well-equipped to face the challenging years that lie ahead and to prepare them to chart their own pathways.
Parents and guardians should act as facilitators and main supporters of children’s passion, particularly in areas seen to be full of potential and which are unique to the individuals.
Traditional values must be cultivated, but by assimilating them with worldly views and perspectives from a young age, the personalities and behaviourial attitudes will benefit them in the long run.
Educational methods must be recalibrated to suit the needs and drive of the younger generation. Essential skills and knowledge will still be significant parts of learning, yet the more crucial aspect would be to ensure that they are able to identify their life goals as well as direction.
It may not necessarily be associated with career paths or academic credentials but areas that they are most comfortable with in pursuing in their later life.
Critical thinking and problem-solving are two other areas that children and youths must be exposed to.
The misconception of these elements is alarming as they are perceived to be scientific, mathematical or complicated in nature.
Youths must understand complications and be able to resolve intricacies from a young age via practical, hands-on means. Entrepreneurial spirit and skills can be the catalysts driving the children and youths ahead.
Aided by early guidance in management, teamwork, financial planning and strategic analysis, it will not be impossible to witness the emergence of booming entrepreneurs and businesses helmed by youths in the near future as they discover their true calling in life.
By possessing these abilities, youths will have a solid foundation to go forward.
FADHIL RAHMAN
Ampang Jaya, Selangor