News and picture Fatin Najwa Noorizan
SINTOK, 4 December 2025: AIESEC in Kedah-Perlis successfully hosted the Youth Speak Forum (YSF) 2025, aptly themed Evolve2Lead, at Dewan Kuliah Gugusan 3, Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM), recently.
The full-day event brought together more than 40 passionate students and young leaders from institutions including UUM, Kolej Matrikulasi Kedah, and SMJK Keat Hwa, creating a dynamic platform to cultivate leadership, critical thinking, and meaningful social impact.
Organised in collaboration with several industry partners, YSF 2025 aimed to equip young people with the skills needed to become confident, purpose-driven leaders while exposing them to current industry trends. The programme featured sessions on leadership, personal development, and community engagement, empowering participants to take impactful action within their communities.
The event opened with an energising ceremony led by Dr. Low Kah Choon (UUM) and Ts Dr. Hoo Peng Yong (UniMAP), followed by a keynote address from Mr. Tan Chun Kit, Chair of YSF and Regional Buyer for Resins at Amcor. His address highlighted the importance of resilience, adaptability, and lifelong learning as vital qualities for today’s youth. Complementing this, Ms. Abrina from GTI Media Malaysia shared valuable insights into the attributes of an effective employee, motivating delegates to further refine their professional and personal competencies.
A thought-provoking panel discussion on pressing social issues formed one of the core segments of YSF 2025. Moderated by Mr. Tan Chun Kit, the panel comprised Coach Steven (SEV Academy), Mrs. Kartini (UUM HR Department), and Mr. Sharvin (Honorary Treasurer, MPP UUM). Participants engaged in lively dialogue on the role of youth in addressing societal challenges, broadening their perspectives and inspiring them to contribute proactively to positive social change.
One of the event’s highlights was the networking lunch, which provided delegates with the opportunity to connect informally with panellists, fostering meaningful conversations and potential mentorship opportunities. After the networking session, participants attended the Launchpad for Youth workshop facilitated by Coach Steven, which emphasised teamwork and encouraged delegates to voice their ideas through group presentations.
The forum concluded with a social agenda organised in partnership with Mr. Adam Samer, President of ISS Club UUM. Delegates worked collaboratively in groups to complete tasks designed to strengthen leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. The day ended with a spirited group photo, symbolising unity and shared ambition.
For many participants, YSF 2025 was more than a forum—it was a transformative experience that inspired them to envision themselves as future changemakers. The event successfully equipped young people with the knowledge, tools, and networks to shape their goals and emerge as leaders guided by purpose, passion, and commitment to societal betterment.
