KUALA LUMPUR: The 4th Global Youth Conference (GYC) Malaysia, themed “Disrupt the Ordinary: Youth at the Frontlines of Global Reset”, gathered some of the world’s most inspiring young leaders, policymakers, and innovators at Asia Pacific University. The two-day event on September 27 and 28 became a hub of bold ideas, passionate storytelling, and collaborative solutions to address global challenges including climate change, peace and conflict, digital transformation, and inclusive growth.
The opening ceremony was led by Abdul Moiz, Chief Executive Officer, and Chengkuac Awan, President of GYC, followed by an inspiring keynote address from the Deputy Vice Chancellor of APU. The Plenary Session on “Youth as Drivers of Global Change” featured an influential panel comprising Mr. Nurruddin Abdul Aziz, Mr. Zailan Arabee Abdul Salam, H.E. Ms. Elvana Shala from the Republic of Kosovo, and Mr. Chengkuac Awan. The panel highlighted how the creativity and resilience of youth are reshaping global agendas in climate action, peacebuilding, and digital innovation.
The Youth Storytelling session became one of the most captivating highlights of the conference, featuring Anum Shakeel from Pakistan, H.E. Ms. Elvana Shala from the Republic of Kosovo, and Shopnil Sanjana from Bangladesh.
Anum Shakeel, recognized as a Global Changemaker Award 2025 winner, is a dynamic leader whose 14-year career spans public health advocacy, industry–academia collaboration, policy influence, and startup ecosystem development. Currently serving as Head of Media and Communications at the Sindh Institute of Child Health and Neonatology (SICHN), she has championed initiatives that expand health equity, early childhood development, and youth-led innovation.
Beyond her work in health systems, she has been instrumental in building bridges between universities and industries, mentoring women and young entrepreneurs, and shaping inclusive narratives through digital media. Her influence extends to regional policy dialogues and global collaborations, proving that impactful storytelling, when combined with strategic action, can shift mindsets and accelerate progress.
Her presence at GYC Malaysia highlighted how purpose-driven leadership can redefine development priorities for communities across Asia and beyond.
The conference also featured the Youth Open Mic on “One Idea for the World”, cultural performances, keynote reflections from distinguished guests, and vibrant networking opportunities that sparked new partnerships across borders.
The closing ceremony celebrated the Global Youth Awards 2025, honoring extraordinary young leaders driving meaningful social change. Among the awardees were Anum Shakeel from Pakistan, Shopnil Sanjana from Bangladesh, and Manhil from Malaysia, recognized alongside other remarkable nominees for their transformative contributions to building a more equitable, resilient, and sustainable world.
Day 2 concluded with a city tour for delegates, offering a platform for cultural exchange and collaboration that strengthened global youth networks beyond the conference sessions.
The 4th GYC Malaysia 2025 demonstrated the unstoppable momentum of youth leadership. By bringing together storytellers, changemakers, and innovators from around the world, the conference underscored that young leaders are not just shaping conversations but driving real-world solutions for a better future.
