The “Building Bridges for Peace: Asia Talk Series,” held on December 8, 2024, in Bukit Kiara Country Club, Kuala Lumpur, was a significant milestone in promoting peace and collaboration, with the Women’s Federation for World Peace (WFWP) Malaysia proudly supporting the event.
WFWP sponsored 10 youths and students, who were the past recipients of the Give Me a Chance Refurbished Laptop Project, to attend this forum on community empowerment.
Organized by the Universal Peace Federation (UPF) Malaysia, the event brought together 90 participants, including distinguished speakers, community and business leaders, youth representatives, and peacebuilders, to explore innovative solutions for fostering peace through sustainable development, gender equality, and youth engagement.
The event began with a networking session, setting the tone for an engaging day of dialogue and collaboration. Mr. Anil Pillay, the Organizing Co-chairman, delivered the welcoming remarks, emphasizing the importance of partnerships in addressing global challenges. Assistant Professor Sudesh G. Balasubramaniam, President of UPF Malaysia, shared an inspiring message about the collective responsibility to advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and contribute to global peace.
The panel discussion, which was the key highlight of the event, focused on “Empowering Communities through Sustainable Development, Gender Equality, and Youth Engagement.” Moderated by Ms. Nadiah Hanim Abdul Latif, the panel featured insightful presentations from three esteemed speakers:
– YB Datuk Larry Sng Wei Shien, Member of Parliament, who discussed local engagement and sustainable development, particularly in rural communities.
– Dato’ Bindi Rajasegaran, Past District Governor of Rotary International D3300, who emphasized the role of youth leadership in peacebuilding.
– Ms. Khadijatul Azada (KD), Founding President of Women Holistic Leadership (WHOLE) Malaysia, who underscored the critical role of women’s economic empowerment in achieving sustainable peace.
The event also featured a dynamic Q&A session, offering practical strategies for advancing peace, as well as a performance by young volunteers.
The closing remarks by Mr. Lai Peng Keong, Secretary-General of UPF Malaysia, reinforced the event’s commitment to building a more inclusive and harmonious world.
Overall, the “Building Bridges for Peace” event was a great success in advancing the shared mission of peace, collaboration, and empowerment. WFWP Malaysia remains dedicated to supporting such initiatives and fostering peace through dialogue, gender equality, and youth engagement.
