Bandar Seri Begawan - Moral degradation as well as social ills among youths that are plaguing the nation has become the source of concern among the religious authorities, who yesterday called for a "protective shield" to fight this menace.

The call was made by imams in the Friday sermon yesterday ahead of the National Youth Day which the nation celebrates today, at the Indoor Stadium in Berakas.

The imams said youths are the future's priceless asset and the strength of the country's future who will inherit the country's leadership and continuity They should be moulded, guided and educated to the right pathway to become a pious society The nation needs quality youths, inline with this year's National Youth Day theme, "Belia Syumul Harapan Negara" or An Accomplished Youth is the Hope of the Nation.

The 7th National Youth Day will be celebrated nationwide today, Saturday. In the era of globalisation, the world faces many challenges. Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has become the main challenge that can contribute both positively and negatively. In its negative connotation, it could poison our minds, especially for youths.

Youths are also facing alarming socio-cultural threats such as moral degradation. Without strong faith and national identity, the youths would easily be influenced by negative elements and social ills that could pollute one's mind, belief and soul, such as casual sex, misuse of drugs and alcohol consumption, which are against Islamic teachings.

Youths must be pious to Allah the Almighty and Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) by fulfilling religious obligations and avoiding all the wrongdoings by following in the footsteps of the prophet, including norms and values.

Youths must also abide by their parents' advice, so long as it is not against Islamic teachings, as well as to respect them, please them and pray for their well-being.

Youths also shoulder the responsibility to uphold the Islamic teachings, which becomes a shield for them.