CCM Dialogue with Deputy Minister of Youth

A delegation of seven representing the CCM met with the Deputy Minister of Youth, Dato' Liow Tiong Lai at his office in Putrajaya today.

The purpose of the meeting was to discuss concerns of Christian Youth Organizations on the implications of the Youth Societies and Youth Development Act 2006.

CCM representatives consisted of: Rev. Dr. Hermen Shastri (the General Secretary), Rev. Ong Hwai Teik (National Chaplain of Girls Brigade Malaysia), Wan Thong Choon (YMCA, KL), Kathryn Tan (National Secretary of GBM), Joyce Thong (Chaplain of GB 2nd KL), Michael Moorthy (President of Boys' Brigade Malaysia), Mr. Eric Tan (Exe. Secretary of BBM).

In the one hour meeting, the Deputy Minister was able to understand the particular nature of the work of the BB and GB, who have a large number of members before 15 years of age and many leaders over the age of 40. The Youth Act stipulates that Youth societies are defined by those participating between the age of 15 to 40. 

At the end of the meeting, it was decided that a special appeal shall be made to the Minister of Youth, who under the Youth Act, has the power to exempt some Youth organizations of the age clause based on valid and justifiable reasons.

Dato' Liow said that; "In the case of the Boys and Girls' Brigade, they have been doing a good job for so many years, it is only right that they be supported to continue with such work. Over time they will, however, need to comply to the 40 year rule, at least for their main office-bearers."

The CCM delegation felt more hopeful after the meeting and were pleased that the Deputy Minister recognized the effective youth work being carried out by the BB, GB, YMCA and YWCA.

29th May 2007