Page 129 - 马佛青55周年特刊

can strike a balance between regulatory compliance and religious autonomy, in order to meet new
societal expectations of youth organisations. Opinion Articles

YBAM’s Historical Positioning and Organisational Characteristics

One of YBAM’s distinguishing features is its‘youth-led, elder-supported’organisational
structure. Young members lead decision-making and activities, while experienced, senior Buddhists
serve as advisors and consultants. This structure ensures youth empowerment while maintaining
continuity of Buddhist cultural transmission and organisational experience.
Moreover, YBAM demonstrates flexibility and diversity within the Buddhist ecosystem,
forming linkages across Buddhist societies, Institutes of Teacher Education, and varsity Buddhist
societies — encompassing all age segments from children to youth. This highly adaptive and
networked structure allows YBAM to exert influence across states, ethnic groups, and youth from
varied backgrounds.

Origins and Background of the Amendments to the Youth Societies
and Youth Development Act (2019) (Act 668)

Act 668 was originally passed in 2007 with the goal of regulating youth organisations’
registration, management, and developmental direction, under the supervision of the Ministry of
Youth and Sports. The 2019 amendments were introduced to support more targeted youth policies.
In line with international trends, where‘youth’is generally defined as individuals under the age
of 30, Malaysia amended the Act to align with the standards of the United Nations and other
countries.
The amendment was passed in Parliament and came into force in December 2019. Although
the legislative intent was to regulate and encourage youth participation, it raised concerns among
many youth organisations — especially those with long-standing traditions and intergenerational
structures — about the applicability and long-term impact of the new legal framework.