Young Generation To Continue Government Efforts To Boost Development And Prosperity - Najib

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 16 (Bernama) -- The young generation is responsible for continuing government efforts to drive national development and prosperity to a higher level, apart from ensuring Malaysia is always respected by the world, said Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.

The Prime Minister said today's young generation not only gain knowledge from universities, but must it a mission to be the generation to continue efforts to bring more success to the country.

"We need to provide them with the best and make them our partners in achieving Vision 2020," he said at a function with student leaders at the 2012 Student Leaders Convention here Saturday.

Also present were Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin.

Najib said, "If Malaysia wants to be respected by the world, we must present Malaysia as a country where changes and development occurs."

"We don't need the Arab Spring to see changes in the country. This is because countries where such conflict occurred have yet to receive dividends and returnS from changes due to demonstrations and rioting which claimed lives, damaged properties and crippled successful industries."

He said the government had also carried out various changes to give room to the young generation, which includes amendments to the Universities and University Colleges Act (AUKU).

Amendment to AUKU allows the young generation to show their maturity and leadership in the interest of the people as a whole, Najib added.

"We must have trust in the new generation. They are our children and today, no one can say we restrict them from intellectual and leadership development."

A total of 600 university student leaders nationwide, including student leaders from polytechnics and community colleges attended the three-day convention at the Putra World Trade Centre (PWTC).