The long-dormant NECF Malaysia Youth Commission (YC) is being roused from its slumber by the noisy din of socials ills plaguing our society, particularly the youths.
In June, NECF met seven representatives from youth organisations and churches to discuss the resuscitation of the YC and its role in the ministry to Malaysian youths. (The YC last met five years ago in April 1999.)
NECF Secretary-General Rev Wong Kim Kong recommended that the YC be re-named a network instead of a commission since it is actually a gathering of youth organisations and church youth leaders. The new name will also give focus to the group to facilitate networking of its members. He added that one of YC’s major tasks is to emphasise to churches the need to engage full-time youth workers to strengthen their youth ministry.
NECF Executive Secretary Patrick Cheng gave a brief report on the Asian Youth Leaders consultation he attended in April, citing the National Network of Youth Ministries as a model for networking and partnership. In their discussion on the objectives and role of he YC, most of the attendees felt that it should not be involved in grassroots activities; rather, its programme should target the youth workers. Some attendees felt that the YC should focus on research, resource and representation.
Towards the end of the meeting, the attendees were requested to consider the YC objectives, its mission statement, a suitable candidate to take up the position of NECF Executive Secretary (Youth) and a new name for YC. Their decision will be discussed and endorsed at the next meeting in August. |
