Youssouf Oomar, UNICEF Representative to Malaysia and Special Representative to Brunei
Youssouf Oomar assumed the leadership of UNICEF Malaysia in January 2008. His strengths and experiences lie in socio-economic development. A national of Mauritius, he is a firm believer in cultural diversity.

How do you perceive your role and responsibility as a citizen of Malaysia and the world?

Patricia Pinto, 24, Selangor
"To encourage others to reach their dreams, no matter how nonsensical or whimsical. Or even impossible."

Parthiban Muniandy, 24, phD Student
"I see my role as someone who has been blessed with the skills to help bring exposure on the needs of those who are helpless, oppressed and impoverished.
There are many communities living in impoverishment, isolation and other appalling conditions in our region. Just look up undocumented immigrants, refugees, and fishing communities as examples.
These communities need to have a place to air their grievances, not just locally, but to the international community.
I can learn more about them, and I believe I can educate others about these communities, acting as a facilitator for awareness. This is my perceived responsibility."

Samantha Chow, 18, Kajang
"I am responsible to the country as a faithful and loyal citizen in maintaining the country’s good name and working to better the country. I am responsible to the world by preserving the environment and contributing to society in whatever sense I can."

Irene M. Cho, 28 going on 29
"We are a young nation. We should adopt good habits like preserving the environment even though it may cost us a little more."

Phang Kuan Hoong, 27, Kuala Lumpur, musician
"To live like a thinking human being, not a slave to materialism and capitalism."

Tiffany Heah, late 20s, Kuala Lumpur
"Right now, I'm trying to do my bit to save the environment."