“Reimagine the Future!” young voices debate disruptive technologies and impact on children
Under the theme Bersama Malaysia, UNICEF marks 70 years of championing child rights in conjunction with World Children’s Day.

“We are proud to honour the rights of children and celebrate 70 years of partnership with Malaysia. Today’s world is changing rapidly, and with it, so are the challenges. World Children’s Day is a moment to reimagine what is possible. To listen, to learn, and to be led by children themselves” said Robert Gass, UNICEF Representative to Malaysia at the event held in conjunction with World Childrens Day. The event was graced by the Honourable Dato’ Sri Hajah Nancy Shukri, Minister of Women, Family and Community Development.

World Children’s Day marks the anniversary of the adoption of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) in 1989, which outlines the fundamental rights of every child. The annual celebration on November 20 highlights critical issues affecting children’s lives and promotes the active participation of children and young people as advocates for their own rights.

In conjunction with this year’s World Children’s Day, UNICEF also celebrates its 70th anniversary in Malaysia, alongside a 60-year partnership with the Government. This collaboration began on 1 July 1964, with the signing of the Basic Cooperation Agreement by Malaysia’s first Prime Minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman. This alliance has been instrumental in advancing children’s rights and welfare in Malaysia over the decades.

“Time is ticking, and our rights are in question. Together, we’ll raise our voices and say, ‘No more! This is our right!’ We’re grateful for amazing role models for creating chances we once never had. I hope for a future where every child’s voice is valued and treated equally.” said young host Putri Armani a.k.a Kowachee, 15 years old, opening the event.

World Children’s Day emphasizes the right to participation, enshrined in Article 12. This key principle of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, empowers children to express their views and influence decisions that affect their lives, ensuring their voices are heard in matters that concern them.

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The event featured an intergenerational dialogue that focused on disruptive technologies, and the opportunities and risks they present. The engaging discussion featured three inspiring young voices: Arjun Jaya Vijaya, 17 years old; Syarifah Nur Alyaa, 16 years old; and Jessie Lee, 17 years old, together with Karima El Korri, UN 1

Resident Coordinator in Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei Darussalam, and Datin Paduka Marina Mahathir, writer and gender advocate. The conversation was moderated by Aidil Iman Aidid, founder of Kolektif Iklim.

The dialogue reflected on key themes in UNICEF’s latest report, The State of the World’s Children 2024: The Future of Childhood in a Changing World. The report looks ahead to the year 2050 through three major global forces that are impacting children’s lives – demographic changes, the climate crisis, and disruptive technologies – and paints a sobering picture of the reality children could face, depending on the collective decisions world leaders make – or fail to make – today.

The Reimagine the Future event was attended by 300 guests including government officials the diplomatic corps, and representatives from the private sector and civil society. An exhibition showcased UNICEF’s 70 years history in Malaysia featuring a Tree of Tomorrow art installation that invited guests to add their promise for the future. Music Mart and band, Zimi J provided music and entertainment. The event was emceed by Sean Zachariah, 14 years old, and Putri Armani a.k.a Kowachee who is 15 years old.

The World Children’s Day and UNICEF’s 70th Anniversary celebrations continue into the 23-24 November weekend with an interactive exhibition and music performances at the Pasar Seni MRT station. -END-

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