Southern Asia-Pacific Division

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Malaysian Youth Respond Positively to the Youth Alive Initiative

[Photo courtesy of Dr. Lalaine Alfanoso]

Over 300 young people from Malaysia and Brunei recently met at the Youth Alive event, organized by the Adventist Church in Malaysia (MAUM), in a demonstration of solidarity and determination. Dr. Jane Yap, the MAUM's Health Director, and Elder Farrel Gara, the MAUM's Youth Director, collaborated on this effort in Goshen, Sabah, which intended to empower young people and offer them essential skills to overcome vices and addiction through the strength of faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.

Youth Alive is a program that empowers youth and young adults to make healthy choices, thereby increasing their resilience. Teens can better understand their gifts and their purpose by participating in the Youth Alive Program.

The ongoing rise in drug misuse throughout nations is concerning, prompting numerous organizations and institutions to devise noble approaches to attracting young people and effecting positive change in their life.

The Youth Alive initiative gave young people the opportunity to express themselves and hear experiences from others who had gone through similar hardships and obstacles. Delegates heard inspirational stories from speakers about how they overcame peer pressure and the influence of negative media to become better people themselves. 

Organizers made certain that events stimulate personal and spiritual development, as well as a sense of belonging through a community group they can rely on and health advice from leaders and professionals in the area.

The attendance of distinguished guests such as Abqaree Fawwaz Bin Abekan, President of the Malaysian Youth Federation, and Ms. Edith Clarrisa, a representative from Malaysia's Anti-Drug Enforcement Agency, was one of the event's highlights. Distinguished guests emphasized the value of the Youth Alive Program and its rippling effect on the lives of young people and their families. 

In her message during the meeting, Dr. Jane Yap stressed the necessity of providing an alternate path for young people, allowing them to shift their attention away from vices and addiction. "Our goal is to provide youth with the tools they need to make positive choices, embrace their faith, and live meaningful lives," she explained.

Elder Farrel Gara shared these views, emphasizing the Lord Jesus Christ's transformational power in conquering obstacles. "Through this ministry, we hope to instill in our youth the values of love, compassion, and self-discipline, thereby empowering them to become influential leaders in their communities," he said.

Dr. Jane Yap, Elder Farrel Gara, and the organizing committee extended their profound gratitude to all attendees, volunteers, and guest speakers as the event came to a close. They also urged the youth to keep making positive choices and to be inspired by their newfound relationships and experiences.

The Youth Alive event in Goshen, Sabah, showcased Dr. Jane Yap, Elder Farrel Gara, and the entire Adventist community in Malaysia's commitment to guiding and empowering the youth toward a life dedicated to faith, purpose, and personal growth. Young people are being prepared to embrace a brighter future while overcoming obstacles to their advancement as a result of their efforts.

Edward Rodriguez, SSD Communication Department

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