KUALA LUMPUR, May 21 — Malaysian youths took to Instagram to congratulate Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad on his win in GE14, and tell him of the reforms they wish to see in the country.
In an initiative by United Nations Children's Fund (Unicef) Malaysia, the youths posted their wishes on Instagram by using the hashtag #lettertomypm.
Featuring over 100 posts, with well-wishers ranging from primary school children to 25-year-old youths, many wished for Dr Mahathir to become a good leader, one who would be able to bring many more great changes to the country.
Rimsha, 19, from Selangor wrote “Dear Tun Dr Mahathir, I hope you will be able to help us with all the troubles we go through, especially for #education.”
Wildani, 21, from Perak called for change in the vocational programme, and sent her best wishes of health and love to the prime minister and his wife Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Mohd Ali, and added “You guys are very lovable.”
Calling for peace and security, Sareveestritram, 6, asked for “Malaysia to be a safe country,” while Amesha, 9, from Sabah wrote, “I want peace in my country.”
In calls for inclusivity, Cathryn Anila, 18, from Selangor wrote, “Dear Tun Dr Mahathir, as a young person, I request you acknowledge child participation in our nation!”, and Jennifer, 17, from Kedah said “I want a system based on merit, not race.”
Appreciating nature and the ecosystem, Hao Ran, 17, from Selangor said, “I hope Malaysia put more effort into conservation to protect our unique flora and fauna,” while Reanna, 7, from Sarawak, called for better roads and hygiene.
In the congratulatory campaign, Unicef had provided the platform for youths to express their aspirations and concerns to the prime minister and have their voices heard.
In a statement today, Unicef also welcomed the consideration given to children, youth, and women in the Pakatan Harapan manifesto, saying it looks forward to working with the government to realise the commitments articulated in the 100-day promise.
“Unicef calls on the newly-elected government to appoint a Children’s Commissioner as an independent advisor to monitor the rights and well-being of children and promote their best interests in law and policy.
“A special representative focusing on children’s issues and reporting directly to Parliament, with the mandate to put children’s best interests on the public agenda, will encourage different departments to coordinate their efforts and promote better laws, policies and services for children,” the statement read.
