THE Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, hopes the younger generation in the state will become individuals who are knowledgeable, compassionate, resilient, united, and respectful of others.
His Royal Highness stated that the youth should strive for excellence without neglecting their responsibilities toward society.
“They must also understand that diversity is one of Malaysia’s greatest strengths.
“Mutual respect and understanding will continue to be the key to our ongoing harmony and progress,” His Royal Highness stated during a special interview with Bernama in conjunction with the Silver Jubilee of the Sultan of Selangor’s reign.
Sultan Sharafuddin also advised this group to examine news reports thoroughly before offering commentary—especially on social media—rather than forming opinions based solely on headlines.
His Royal Highness noted that the younger generation has taken the right approach by placing emphasis on environmental sustainability and the preservation of heritage.
“Economic progress should not be achieved at the expense of the natural environment or our historical identity.
“Planning for future generations means protecting our forests, rivers, and green spaces, while simultaneously preserving our historical landmarks and cultural traditions.
“Development and conservation are not conflicting goals; rather, they should complement one another,” His Royal Highness said.
Sultan Sharafuddin remarked that education remains the foundation for long-term progress, particularly in preparing the younger generation to navigate a rapidly changing world.
“While artificial intelligence (AI) may not replace every job, in many instances, individuals skilled in this technology will replace those who lack such expertise.
“Selangor cannot afford to fall behind in this regard. We must be prepared to face this, and I trust that the state government recognises this reality,” His Royal Highness stated.
Sultan Sharafuddin also reminded that the welfare of the elderly must not be overlooked as Selangor moves toward becoming an ageing society.
His Royal Highness emphasised that healthcare services must evolve in tandem with demographic shifts, while innovation must continue to be strengthened to enhance the state’s competitiveness.
Sultan Sharafuddin has proposed that Selangor strive to become the first state to establish a dedicated geriatric medical centre, focusing on the health, care, prevention, and treatment of conditions frequently experienced by the elderly.
These include the risk of falls, physical frailty, bladder control issues, and cognitive decline.
“We must prioritise the overall quality of life for the elderly, encompassing aspects such as safety, the ability to live independently, and the balanced use of medication,” His Highness stated. – October 24, 2026