FINDING common ground despite differences and working towards improving the nation was the message relayed by both senior and youth leaders of the unity government.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof said the strength of a country was in its unity across all layers of society.
“Regardless of political, social or business aspects, if we are united, everything else will fall in place. This allows us to build a country that is strong and harmonious in all aspects,” he told reporters after attending the unity government youth convention in Kuala Lumpur yesterday.
Fadillah, who is the unity government secretariat’s secretary-general, said component parties must focus on similarities and not differences.
“We need to look at finding common ground to strengthen unity among Malaysians, improve their livelihoods and the economy – this is the focus,” he said.
Umno Youth chief Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh said it was time for youth to create history and carve a new political future.
“This is to show that the youths in the unity government no longer talk about extremism but instead find common ground for the sake of the country,” he said in his address.
Respect, understanding and trust among component parties were essential to ensure the unity government’s success, he added.
“We have differences, but they must be resolved in a proper manner. Malaysia does not consist of one race or religion alone and the same goes for political ideologies,” he said.
He also apologised to Amanah for a previous statement criticising its president Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu, who is also Agriculture and Food Security Minister, over government-linked company (GLC) appointments at the ministry’s agencies.
“I understand that my statement may have offended Amanah. From the bottom of my heart, I want to apologise,” he said.
MCA Youth chief Datuk Nicole Wong highlighted how the government should look to the youth for ideas on nation building.
“It is important to engage youth, be it through social media or other digital platforms. It’s not just social media posts. You need to interact.
“Involve them in the decision-making process as well. You won’t regret it as the youth can bring something fresh and different to the table,” she said.
Wong said those in political parties could also work on making themselves key opinion leaders (KOLs).
“Imagine if a KOL or myself brought up an idea. Which presenter would be more attractive or interesting? You can also consider making yourselves KOLs as well,” she said.
MIC Youth chief K. Raven Kumar said based on the trend from previous general elections, youth “want to see a coalition that is represented by all races and not just one. This is the current unity government”, he said.
In terms of the economy, he added, youth want job opportunities to be made available.
Amanah Youth chief Mohd Hasbi Muda said it was not the time to point fingers, but for component parties to work together.
“There are so many issues the government has to tackle. The goal of the unity government is not only to keep the people united but also to bring the country forward,” he said.
Meanwhile Fadillah, who is the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) Parliament whip, also witnessed the signing on a plaque by youth wings of the unity government.
The signatories were Barisan Nasional Youth chief Dr Muhamad Akmal, GPS Youth deputy chief Lukanisman Awang Sauni, Warisan Youth chief Mohd Ismail Ayob, Pakatan Harapan Youth chief Dr Kelvin Yii Lee Wuen and Gabungan Rakyat Sabah Youth chief Jonnybone Kurum.
