Happiness

Profesor Richard Layard of LES, the renowned researcher on Happiness Study pointed out that a happy society cannot be measured from the income level, GDP and economic growth alone, but more importantly under what circumstances of the family and society especially the youth and children in. The society will be leading to more violence and unrest if the society is filled with unhappy children and youth because as the forgotten load, they are being marginalised and deprived of the opportunities. The fundamental of a happy society is based on the cooperation and collaboration amongst stakeholders rather than pursuing success and wealth as the basis. In most of the society, the emerging of more millionaires is always equated to unhappiness amongst the people. This serves as a good learning experience for the developing countries or those who are searching for success factor on sustainability.

Chapter 25 of Agenda 21 entitled Youth and Children reminded us on the importance of incorporating these groups in the developmental planning and decision making process. As they are forming 30% of the total population, they have the right to be heard what they are aspiring for their future and society norm. The more the children happier in young age, I believe the chances for us to have created a happy society now or in future is brighter.