It’s always a moment of immense pride when Malaysians shine on the global stage, and a young Malaysian woman has done exactly that!
Laetitia Anwen Ng, a 20-year-old student from Keningau Vocational College, recently represented Malaysia at the 2024 APEC Forum on Women and Youth Empowerment in Taipei, Taiwan.
The forum, hosted by Taiwan’s Ministry of Education, gathered 80 delegates from across the globe, offering a fully sponsored opportunity to engage in dialogues, workshops, and field trips that explored the transformative role of women and youth in shaping entrepreneurship, sustainable education, and interdisciplinary innovation.
Making Malaysia proud
Laetitia was accompanied by her lecturer, Ms Sydney Engelbert, as they joined a distinguished line-up of global changemakers.
Both were selected by Malaysia’s Ministry of Education in recognition of their contributions to youth empowerment and community service.
Laetitia’s impressive achievements include:
- Organising leadership camps for youths in Keningau.
- Leading fundraising efforts to support cancer patients and underprivileged families.
- Actively participating in internationalisation programmes that introduced foreign visitors to Malaysia’s rich culture.
These contributions earned her a place among the world’s brightest young minds, showcasing Malaysia’s dedication to fostering impactful youth initiatives.
A new vision for the future
Reflecting on her experience, Laetitia expressed immense gratitude for the opportunity.
She shared that the forum has deepened her commitment to civic engagement and volunteering.
Inspired by the insights gained, she plans to launch a social enterprise combining her skills as a beautician with her passion for community service.
“This programme has motivated me to dream bigger and contribute more to my community,” she said.
KV Keningau’s Director, Nordin bin Akup, extended his heartfelt appreciation to Laetitia and Ms Sydney for their stellar representation of the college on an international stage.
“Their impactful work reflects the values we instil in our students. This experience has enriched their skillset, enabling them to incorporate entrepreneurship and sustainable practices into their future endeavours,” he remarked.
A platform for change
The 2024 APEC Forum wasn’t just a gathering of leaders—it was a platform that amplified voices like Laetitia’s, emphasising the importance of innovation and inclusivity.
Delegates not only attended discussions led by world-renowned speakers but also visited non-profit organisations and sustainable initiatives, gaining practical knowledge on creating impactful changes in their communities.
Laetitia’s trip to Taipei is proof that with passion, hard work, and determination, dreams can come true, inspiring other young Malaysians to chase their own goals.
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