Youth are the foundation of tomorrow’s nation. They hold the potential, creativity, and leadership needed to build a stronger and more inclusive future. While the importance of nurturing young minds is widely acknowledged, today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape presents new and complex challenges. Young people are increasingly exposed to negative influences, peer pressure, cybercrime, bullying, and high-stress environments that can derail their growth and well-being.
Recognising these realities, APPGM-SDG has developed a structured youth development programme aimed at supporting at-risk youths through mentorship, psychosocial wellbeing, and positive engagement. Designed as a holistic support system, the programme focuses on empowering young people through interactive, creative, and values-driven activities that build resilience, confidence, and leadership skills.
The initiative will begin as a pilot project in December 2025, starting in Ipoh, and will be implemented through regular and systematic intervention programmes. Targeting youths aged 13 to 18, the programme seeks to guide participants during their most formative years, helping them navigate challenges while discovering their strengths and purpose.
As the first milestone of this initiative, a two-day Young Leaders Programme was successfully conducted on 13 and 14 December 2025 in Sungai Siput and Ipoh, Perak, respectively, under the APPGM-SDG Youth Development Programmes. The programme brought together 80 youths and parents for a focused and impactful leadership experience aimed at nurturing confident, responsible, and future-ready young leaders.
The programme was officially launched by Professor Datuk Dr Denison Jayasooria, Head of Secretariat, APPGM-SDG, reaffirming the organisation’s strong commitment to structured, values-based youth development. The launch also marked the introduction of the programme’s official TikTok channel, created to connect with youths through digital platforms and amplify positive, empowering messages. In his keynote address, Professor Datuk Dr Denison emphasised the importance of self-confidence, ethical leadership, and active citizenship, aligned with the programme theme: “Own Your Voice. Own Your Future.”
The programme began with a welcoming address by Dr Thanaraj Murudi, Head of North Zone, APPGM-SDG, followed by energetic ice-breaking activities facilitated by Mr Yoogeswaran Kanis. Under the coordination of Ms Mary, Project Coordinator, the programme ran smoothly and effectively across both days.
Participants took part in a range of engaging leadership and life-skills sessions, including creative digital engagement activities by Mr Yoogeswaran Kanis, a life skills and anti-bullying session by Mr Vikneswaran Sunderam, and a confidence- and skills-building workshop by Mr James Ryan Raj. The sessions culminated in an interactive public speaking activity that encouraged self-expression and confidence-building.
Across the two days, the participants engaged actively and learnt good and valuable lessons. For the pilot projects that will be carried out for over a year, 30 youths to be shortlisted for the upcoming APPGM-SDG Youth Development Programmes.
The programme concluded on a high note with a Compliment Circle, certificate presentation, and closing remarks by Mr James Ryan Raj, Deputy Executive Director of APPGM-SDG, marking a meaningful and inspiring beginning to the youth empowerment journey under APPGM-SDG.
