Penang, April 28, 2025 – The Public Relations Practitioners Society of Malaysia (PRactitioners) proudly hosted the inaugural Young Practitioners’ Forum (YPF) 2025 today, drawing more than 500 young communicators from eight universities and colleges from across the nation to meet and connect.
The forum served as a high-impact platform aimed at empowering students and graduates with the knowledge, tools, and networks to excel in the evolving world of Public Relations and Communications.
Organised under the umbrella of the Young Practitioners Initiative, launched in January this year – YPF 2025 brought together industry leaders, educators, and young talents in an immersive day of learning and discussion.
Minister of Human Resources, YB Tuan Steven Sim Chee Keong, said effective strategic communication is integral to nation-building and talent development.
“In today’s rapidly changing media environment, communication is not a soft skill—it’s a strategic imperative.
Patron of PRactitioners, Yang Amat Mulia Tengku Azlan Ibni Almarhum Sultan Abu Bakar (left) presenting a token of appreciation to, Political Secretary, Minister of Human Resource, YB Dr Kelvin Yii (right), witnessed by Chairman of PRactitioners Malaysia, Datuk P. Kamalanathan (second from left) and the Organising Chairman of PRactitioners Malaysia, Mr. Christopher Raj (third from left)
“Forums like YPF allow us to listen to the aspirations of young Malaysians and equip them with the right competencies to thrive not just locally, but globally,” he said.
Political Secretary to the Minister of Human Resources, YB Dr Kelvin Yii, inaugurated the forum on behalf of YB Tuan Steven Sim.
Chairman of PRactitioners, Datuk P. Kamalanathan, highlighted the organisation’s vision to build a strong foundation for the next generation of professionals.
“We believe that forums like YPF are not just timely—they are necessary.
“This initiative represents our collective responsibility to ensure that young practitioners are equipped not only with technical know-how, but also with the confidence and critical thinking skills to lead the industry forward,” he said.
Meanwhile the Organising Chairman of YPF 2025, Mr. Christopher Raj, underscored the forum’s broader mission to motivate and mobilise emerging talent.
“This forum is not just about education—it’s about inspiration. We want young people to leave this room feeling confident, informed, and ready to take on the challenges of our profession.
“YPF is a space where connections are built, ideas are sparked, and careers are kickstarted,” he added.
The full-day event featured a series of high-impact panel discussions led by distinguished moderators and panelists from various sectors.
Topics included career navigation in mass communication, crisis management from a Malaysian lens, implications of the Online Safety Act 2024, and strategic stakeholder engagement.
Closing the day’s proceedings was Penang Youth, Sports, and Health Committee Chairman YB Tuan Daniel Gooi Zi Sen.
The success of YPF 2025 marks a strong step forward for PRactitioners’ mission to create inclusive, future-facing platforms for professional development.
As the organisation looks ahead, PRactitioners aims to expand the Young Practitioners Initiative, reinforcing its commitment to shaping a resilient and dynamic PR industry in Malaysia.
Participants and guests at the Young Practitioners Forum 2025 at St Giles Wembley, Penang.
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About Practitioners Malaysia:
PRactitioners Malaysia is a professional society established in 2024 to champion the advancement of public relations in the country, promoting ethical standards, continuous development, and strategic PR practices. Led by experienced industry leaders, the society serves as a modern, inclusive platform for networking, advocacy, and innovation in the Malaysian PR landscape.
