(From left) Labuan Corporation chief executive officer Rithuan Ismail, Putrajaya Corporation president Fadlun Mak Ujud, Kuala Lumpur mayor Datuk Seri Kamarulzaman Mat Salleh, Dr Zaliha and JWP director-general Datuk Noridah Abdul Rahim. — AZHAR MAHFOF/The Star
The newly established Federal Territories Youth Assembly or Sidang Belia Wilayah Persekutuan (SBWP) is aimed at giving youths an avenue for their voice to be heard.
This new initiative brings together young individuals to discuss policy proposals affecting Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya and Labuan.
In collaboration with the Federal Territories Department (JWP), Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL), Putrajaya Corporation (PPj) and Labuan Corporation, this programme aims to bring together individuals aged 18 to 35 to explore a broad spectrum of issues.
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Dr Zaliha Mustafa launched the programme at a Kuala Lumpur hotel.
She expressed her eagerness to hear young people’s views.
“Youths have unique ideas and perspectives, both in terms of constructive criticism and opinions on policies affecting the Federal Territories.
“We are keen to hear their suggestions as they constitute nearly 50% of the population.
“We aim to provide an open and inclusive platform for them to express their opinions,” she added.
Dr Zaliha explained that while the SBWP resembled the youth parliament programme, it differed by focusing specifically on issues within the Federal Territories.
Applications for youths to become members of the assembly are open until May 17.
Dr Zaliha said a special committee would screen candidates to determine their eligibility.
The department is seeking to enlist 65 participants, with five from each parliamentary area in Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya and Labuan.
“Those selected will gather in a format similar to Parliament to discuss policies pertinent to the Federal Territories, across five main clusters which are economy, social, technology, legal and policy as well as environment and environmental sustainability.
“We will listen to each discussion, and I will summarise and officially close the session,” Dr Zaliha said.
Interested individuals can visit sidangbeliawp.my for more information.
The inaugural SBWP meeting is scheduled from July 12 to 15, with a second meeting from Nov 8 to 11.
