From FOMO to future jobs: PKR Youth motions put Gen Z outreach in focus

MELAKA, Aug 14 — The 2026 National Congress of Angkatan Muda Keadilan (AMK) focused on youth issues, with motions centred around engaging Generation Z, future jobs, mental health, and social wellbeing. Three delegates from Perak, Terengganu, and Sarawak urged the Perak state-based political party, PKR, to refine its approach to resonate with the realities and needs of young Malaysians.

Syahnaz Putera Mohd Yaacob, Perak AMK Information chief, highlighted the challenges PKR faces in winning support from younger voters, especially Gen Z. He emphasized the need for a more bold and creative strategy, leveraging digital platforms to engage Gen Z while assisting them in developing their talents and gaining access to government opportunities and funding.

Syahnaz explained that "Gen Z cast their votes simply because of FOMO, the fear of missing out. When their friends voted and flexed their inked fingers, so they vote too," while introducing the motion. Terengganu AMK chief Md Asyraf Zulfadhly Md Zainudin proposed a motion addressing future jobs and the gig economy, aiming to expand income opportunities for young people.

His proposal included recognizing the gig economy as a legitimate employment sector with comprehensive social protection, offering gig workers opportunities to upgrade and reskill, and strengthening ties between academia, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions, and industry. Sarawak AMK secretary Christopher Jemat Amie brought up mental health and social wellbeing as critical areas that require ongoing attention within the party's reform agenda.

He urged PKR leaders to make mental health and social wellbeing a consistent priority rather than an issue that only arises after tragedies. "Make mental health and social wellbeing part of the reform agenda. It should not be seasonal or addressed only when tragedy strikes, but pursued continuously," he emphasized. "We want to build a nation whose people progress as well, not just an advanced nation," he said.