Forget the old stereotype that Malaysian youth are passive or not interested in serious issues. Across the country, Malaysian youth changemakers are rolling their sleeves and taking action. They’re tackling gender-based violence, pushing for climate action and driving civic education.
There’s no better time than a year-end countdown to look at some of the young Malaysians who aren’t waiting for “someday” to make change happen. These are three organizations that inspire me – young changemakers who are shaking things up and inspiring others along the way.
#1 StandUp Malaysia
StandUp Malaysia began in 2018 when two young women started a campaign during the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence. It has since grown into a registered organization that empowers women and girls to speak out against sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV).
Today, StandUp Malaysia runs consent workshops, public discussions, and storytelling campaigns that help people feel seen, heard and supported. Their work isn’t just about awareness – it’s about building a culture where survivors are believed and everyone feels safe.
This movement holds a special place in my heart. Too many young women and girls still don’t feel safe in everyday spaces – from classrooms to workplaces, and even at home. These Malaysian youth changemakers remind us that silence is not an option. Change begins when we listen, speak up, and stand together.
#2 EcoGarage
Since 2020, EcoGarage has been equipping young Malaysians with the knowledge and skills to take real action on climate and environmental issues – starting right in their schools and communities.
Through hands-on learning, workshops, and youth-led projects, they break down big ideas like the circular economy, composting, and renewable energy into creative, practical initiatives.
To make sustainability a daily habit, these Malaysian youth changemakers set up simple circular systems in schools like waste segregation at canteens. Students practice what they learn and carry these habits beyond the classroom.
Climate action can sometimes feel distant or too technical. But EcoGarage shows that change starts close to home – with how we think, learn, and act in our own communities. Their approach proves that environmental education doesn’t have to be boring or preachy. It can be empowering, relevant, and even fun.
#3 Sabah Entitlement & Equity Now
Over in Sabah, a group of young changemakers launched Sabah Entitlement & Equity Now in 2023. The non-partisan youth movement unpacks complex and often overlooked issues – from land rights to the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).
Their goal? To break down big political, legal, and social concepts into bite-sized, eye-catching Instagram infographics and videos.
When politics feels distant or confusing, their work brings it back to us. Sabah Entitlement & Equity Now makes civic learning clear, relatable, and empowering. It helps us understand Sabahan rights and why they matter.
Youth are done waiting – they’re leading
These three stories are just a glimpse of something much bigger: a wave of Malaysian youth changemakers stepping up to lead. Whether they’re organizing consent talks, teachings children about sustainability, or simplifying civic rights on social media – young people are making change happen now.
So if you’ve ever felt like your voice doesn’t matter, think again. These young people are proof that change doesn’t always come from big institutions or loud protests – sometimes it starts with a post, a workshop, or a conversation with your friends. You don’t need to wait to be older, richer, or more “qualified” to make a difference.
You just need to care – and to start.
