By Sheeda Fathil
SHAH ALAM, May 28 — Selangor introduces a children-related policy that provides various programmes at the grassroots level to shape a resilient future generation, says Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari.
The Menteri Besar said that the Selangor Child Development Policy and Action Plan 2022-2025 focus on all aspects, including the welfare, health, education, and safety of children.
“This policy, which has 10 main pillars, has been presented and approved by the Selangor State Legislative Assembly. This pioneering policy is believed to produce a resilient generation to face today’s and future challenges.
“I believe that this progressive and comprehensive policy will position Selangor as one of the leading states, especially in terms of well-being.
“The steps taken are in line with the current situation. The extensive involvement of stakeholders will provide room for improvement and enhance Selangor’s ecosystem in developing the identity and capabilities of children,” he said in his speech at the closing ceremony of the Selangor Children’s Carnival 2023 and the launch of the Selangor Child Development Policy and Action Plan 2022-2025 at Dewan Raja Muda Musa, here today.
Amirudin said that more comprehensive efforts need to be implemented as the children in the current generation are greatly affected by the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic.
“Therefore, the state government strives to create various initiatives under Iltizam Selangor Penyayang, the Selangor Prihatin economic stimulus packages and Kita Selangor to effectively address the gaps that arise among children.
“Furthermore, appropriate attention should be given by caregivers and stakeholders to physical changes and development, skill learning, as well as socialisation and interaction with the outside world to ensure that children are shaped holistically,” he said.
The following are the 10 pillars of the Selangor Child Development Policy and Action Plan 2022-2025:
- Parental and pre-birth preparation
- Early childhood education and care
- Education (primary and secondary levels)
- Health
- Family welfare
- Social and communication development
- Technology in child development
- Infrastructure and safety
- Socioeconomic level of families
- Stakeholder involvement
Meanwhile, Yayasan Warisan Anak Selangor (Yawas) is optimistic that the children’s development policy introduced by Selangor will strengthen efforts to develop the children’s potential.
Its general manager Gan Pei Nei said that the leadership and future excellence of the state depend on the formation of a brilliant, visionary, and dynamic young generation.
“The formulation of this policy demonstrates the commitment and strategic efforts of the state government to channel trained resources to the community, especially children, comprehensively.
“The policy, which is seen as suitable for the current situation, is expected to enhance programmes and initiatives for children and empower stakeholders to be actively involved in the development process of this young generation,” she said at the event.
Gan also urged everyone to give their full attention and love to children, regardless of their background or circumstances.
“This group is a highly valuable asset, and they deserve protection, education and support from families, communities and the country,” she added.
