By WU VUIDE
KOTA KINABALU: Malaysia needs a new generation of youth who are bold enough to speak up, step up, and bring change, said Deputy Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Chan Foong Hin.
He said the work done by Junior Chamber International (JCI), whether in leadership development, civic engagement, or community impact, aligns perfectly with what Malaysia needs.
“JCI is more than a youth movement; it’s a leadership pipeline,” said Chan, who is also the Member of Parliament for Kota Kinabalu, during the JCI Luyang installation of office bearers, which saw Cloudine Padua elected as president for the 2025–2026 term at a restaurant here yesterday.
“I’ve witnessed the impact of your civic projects on the ground. Whether in youth empowerment, inclusive outreach, or sustainable initiatives, your momentum speaks for itself,” he said.
Chan added that he looks forward to fostering closer cooperation between JCI Luyang and his constituency office for future outreach, particularly during festive seasons.
“Let’s work hand-in-hand to ensure no community is left behind,” he urged.
On the Moonlight Giving Programme initiative, Chan expressed his support through the sponsorship of Saji cooking oil, a homegrown brand under FGV Holdings Berhad.
Its high-quality palm olein properties make it ideal even for festive delicacies like mooncakes, he noted.
“This collaboration is a small but meaningful way of connecting local industry with community values,” he added.
Chan said JCI has long been a platform for developing young leaders who are not only confident and capable, but also community-minded and driven by purpose.
“As someone who started my political journey young, I deeply appreciate what it means to lead with conviction and to serve the people with heart,” he said.
He expressed hope that the incoming office bearers would take this opportunity to grow, lead, and make a difference not just within JCI, but in the wider community.
“Let this new term be guided by vision, unity, and courage,” Chan said.
