The final day of the World Youth Festival was nothing short of unforgettable, a celebration of movement, unity, culture, and the incredible spirit of young leaders from around the world. Uniting under the values of sport, tradition and youth development, this event of sport brought over 10,000 young people together.
A Morning of Energy and Togetherness
The day began bright and early at Stadium Merdeka, where the UTS Young Leaders and team joined thousands of children and youth for a Malaysian dynamic 15 minute group warm-up. Spirits were high as everyone from participants and volunteers to UTS CEO Julia Govinden and UTS President Stephan Fox came together to kick off the morning in true UTS fashion: active, joyful, and united.
President Fox said:
“What is truly unique about UTS aside from being the only youth sport organisation in the world to unite the international Olympic Committee, Paralympic and Special Olympic movements is that we go beyond sport, beyond education, we are building the next generation of young leaders who together, can change the world. They already are.”
With everyone energised, the group set off for the next activity on the agenda the 1 km Children’s Fun Walk, winding through the historic stadium grounds with the majestic Merdeka 118 Tower, the second tallest building in the world, rising in the background. It was a powerful reminder of how far youth empowerment has come and how high we can still go.
Exploring Causes, Culture, and Creativity
After the walk in celebration of World Children’s Day, the field of play was ready for the youth to enjoy a vibrant range of Children’s Day activities. The stadium grounds transformed into a festival of learning and advocacy, featuring:
- Traditional Malaysian games
- A lively petting zoo filled with local and exotic animals
- Creative workshops such as batik painting, weaving, and handson STEM exhibits
- Interactive activity booths and awareness initiatives
- Accessible sporting activities inspired by the Special Olympics MATP Program
Among the many meaningful causes highlighted were National Autism Society of Malaysia and local organisations, Statelessness, supporting stateless and undocumented children, including orphans and youth unable to obtain legal citizenship due to gaps in parental documentation or Malaysia’s strict citizenship requirements. These stories deeply resonated with the young leaders, sparking thoughtful conversations about global inclusion and the rights of every child.
Unity Through Play: UTS contributes to Malaysian Sports
In the true spirit of cultural exchange, the entire UTS team jumped in to try out the traditional Malaysian sports and games, laughing, learning, and occasionally competing with impressive determination. It was a moment of pure community, bringing together young people, the team, and local partners in friendly, energetic play.
Food stalls lined the venue, offering local treats and refreshments, giving everyone a taste of Malaysian flavours between activities.
The importance of traditional games added a unique layer to the festival, with focus on culture and traditions.
Head of the Local Organising Committee Dato’ Muhammad Shahnaz Amzi said:
“For the Malaysian sport sector the partnership with United Through Sports gives access for Malaysia to build new collaborations and partnerships across the huge network of UTS. Giving exposure to our national federations, providing access to education to our youth and encouraging international dialogue sets the stage for the next few years including major sport events including the 34th Sea Games and the Islamic Solidarity Sports Association Games. The future for Malaysian youth development and major sport events is brighter than ever.”
Afternoon Adventures: Roller Coasters & Sports Practice
Once the stadium program wrapped up, the journey continued with additional surprises for the youth at the Berjaya Times Square and IOI City Mall, where the group split into mini adventures.
Some brave young leaders took on the indoor roller coasters, turning the mall into a hub of adrenaline and excitement. Others explored the shops, picked up souvenirs, or like Leila used the time for sports practice, squeezing in a paddle session even during a packed festival day.
A True Taste of Malaysia: Banana Leaf Lunch
One of the day’s highlights was the traditional banana leaf meal, where participants learned to eat with their hands an authentic Malaysian dining experience symbolising community, gratitude, and shared culture. Seated together, everyone enjoyed delicious local dishes while reflecting on the festival, exchanging stories, and bonding beyond borders.
Closing the Day Under the Petronas Towers
As evening fell, the group made its way to the iconic Petronas Twin Towers. The glittering skyline of Kuala Lumpur provided perfect ending photos, laughter, quiet moments of reflection, and the collective realization that this was more than just a festival. It was a celebration of youth leadership, unity, and the power of sport to bring the world together.
