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speaking up for nature in singapore
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on youths of singapore to speak up PM's call on youths | list of all articles | speak up for nature: why bother? The Straits Times, 29 Jan 05 Well-known figures engaged by CDC to galvanise youth By Li Xueying HE IS Singapore's most famous footballer. Now, Fandi Ahmad will use that recognition to get Singapore's youths to step out and organise programmes for the community. In a savvy marketing move, the Northeast Community Development Council has appointed a number of well-known figures as its ambassadors to galvanise the young to 'step forward and take charge'. They include assistant national coach Fandi, 42; television host Guo Liang, 36; paralympian Theresa Goh, 17; and entrepreneurs Douglas Foo, 36, and Adrin Loi, 49, of Sakae Sushi and Ya Kun fame respectively. At a ceremony yesterday to appoint 80 council members to a new three-year term, Mayor Zainul Abidin Rasheed said the appointment of personalities - a first for his CDC - indicates its shift in priorities: 'The last time, there was an economic slowdown, so we focused on finding jobs and restoring people's confidence. 'Now, things have turned around, and with a new Prime Minister and the spotlight on youths, we want to bring these personalities in to help generate ideas.' The involvement of those with 'iconic backgrounds' will help engage the young. He hastens to add that they 'will not be wallflowers', but active participants. Indeed, Fandi has already conceptualised Soccermania! which will involve both able and disabled youths. He will personally conduct coaching clinics and talks for youths, and said he hopes this will keep them 'out of trouble'. But the other segments of society will not be forgotten. Said Mr Zainul: 'The committee will not just be focusing on youth per se, but rather transforming their energy to various causes and community work with the elderly, the less privileged and the disabled.' Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong, who was guest of honour, presented certificates to the new members. Also present was National Development Minister Mah Bow Tan. Political science lecturer Suzaina Kadir, 36, who is a member of the CDC's new youth committee called EnergY, sees her role as 'imparting to youths a sense of ownership'. She wants to involve them in dialogues, to 'discuss openly any topic they want', including politics. Guo Liang, a father of a five-year-old son, on the other hand, is interested in hosting public forums to 'teach young children about hygiene and their health'. Yesterday, Mr Zainul also announced other projects, including a one-stop entrepreneurship centre to guide residents interested in setting up their own businesses. |
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