After youth group Challenger expressed its opinion that Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak’s leadership will ruin the country, another set of youth leaders has come forward in defence of the premier.

Yesterday, Challenger - which stands for 'Change led by the Young Generation' - said it has lost faith in Najib and his allies as their actions had jeopardised the future of Malaysia.

But youth leaders from various universities led by former Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) student council leader Abang Mohd Hafizie Abang Buns pointed out that Challenger is not an organisation registered with the Registrar of Societies (ROS) nor is it registered with any university, and therefore does not represent the majority of Malaysian youths.

Commenting on Challenger which had defended PKR parliamentarian Rafizi Ramli in its statement, Hafizie said this was proof that the group was an ally of the opposition.

Challenger’s decision to defend The Edge and Sarawak Report was also proof that the group had issued a press statement hastily without first determining the facts, said Hafizie.

As for allegations made against Najib, Hafizie said the claims were nothing but propaganda and pointed out how attorney-general Mohamed Apandi Ali had cleared Najib of any wrongdoing in the RM2.6 billion donation issue.

“We also acknowledge the prime minister’s leadership which has been similarly acknowledged internationally.

“Leaders from the Middle East, China, Europe and the United States respect Najib’s leadership.”

Pointing out that Malaysia’s economy had grown by five percent last year, Hafizie said this proved Najib’s economic policy was apt and that even Saudi Arabia had followed suit in implementing the Goods and Services Tax (GST).

“As youths, we must act based on facts and uphold the (federal) constitution. We should not spread perceptions and fan hate against the country’s leaders."

Malaysia, he added, is still a peaceful country when other countries in the world are facing various conflicts.

“Try naming Islamic countries which are still peaceful and whose economy is stable. Try naming the names of Muslim leaders who are trusted at the world stage today.

“As youths, we should not destroy the country based on emotions and perceptions. Let's unite to assist Najib to develop this country,” he said.