THE Malaysian Youth Council has offered to act as facilitator in the issue concerning Parlimen Digital, a platform to bring together youth aspirations, which had recently sparked controversy and public debate.

Council vice-president Muhammad Sherhan Nizam Abdul Aziz is of the view authorities should handle the issue with care as it was natural for young people to express their point of view, even if they come across as critical or outspoken.

“The council believes if the government is open and willing to listen to their ideas and have a dialogue, the group could serve as a catalyst in helping and contributing effectively to youth and national development,” he said in a statement in Kuala Lumpur today.

Parlimen Digital, organised by youth groups Challenger Malaysia, Undi 18 and Liga Demokratik Malaysia, last weekend held a mock Dewan Rakyat session, where participants played the role of the House’s 222 members.

Sherhan said the Youth Parliament platform established by the government for example, had provided more room for the younger generation to voice their ideas and views in tandem with current issues.

“It is not political in nature but more of a platform to discuss and keep youths updated of developing issues and prepare them as future leaders of the country,” he said.

Parlimen Digital was aimed at proving Parliament sittings could be held online, after the last session on May 18 was shortened to just two hours, covering only the royal address, amid Covid-19 fears.

The organisers said six participants were called up by the authorities and questioned about their political leanings.

The event secretariat raised concerns about the manner in which the participants were questioned by police.

“Some were called to police stations for questioning without legal counsel, while some were invited for casual discussions.”

Inspector-General of Police Abdul Hamid Bador has since denied that the organisers were called up by police. – Bernama, July 9, 2020.