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Why Emotional Intelligence Matters for Gen Z

  • Writer: Mervin Rasiah
    Mervin Rasiah
  • Sep 20
  • 2 min read

Updated: Oct 2

In today’s fast-paced, hyperconnected world, one skill stands out as essential for Gen Z: Emotional Intelligence (EQ).


Born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s, Gen Z is the first generation to grow up fully immersed in technology. While this brings incredible opportunities, it also presents unique emotional and social challenges. At MR Consultancy Services, we believe that nurturing EQ in young people is not just beneficial—it’s critical.


What Is Emotional Intelligence?


Emotional Intelligence is the ability to:


  • Recognize and understand your own emotions

  • Manage those emotions effectively

  • Recognize and respond to the emotions of others

  • Build healthy relationships and make thoughtful decisions


It’s not about being “soft.” It’s about being smart with feelings—and that’s a superpower in today’s world.


The Challenges Gen Z Faces


Gen Z is experiencing unprecedented levels of stress, anxiety, and burnout. In Malaysia, a study using the USMEQ-i (Universiti Sains Malaysia Emotional Quotient Inventory) found that Gen Z undergraduates had a “low high” level of emotional intelligence, with a mean score of 2.81, influenced by emotional maturity, awareness, expression, and conscientiousness[1].


Across Southeast Asia:


  • Adolescents make up nearly 20% of the population in the WHO South-East Asia Region[2]

  • Mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety are rising, with limited access to care and support

  • These issues are linked to behavioral problems and poor academic and social outcomes


These figures highlight the urgent need for emotional intelligence development as a preventive and empowering tool for youth mental wellness.


Why EQ Matters for Career & Life


Globally, emotional intelligence is one of the strongest predictors of success:


  • 90% of top performers have high emotional intelligence

  • EQ accounts for 58% of job performance[3]

  • Students with high EQ perform better academically, build stronger relationships, and adapt more easily to challenges


In Malaysia’s diverse and competitive environment, EQ helps students:


  • Navigate multicultural settings

  • Manage academic pressure

  • Build resilience and leadership skills[3]


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MRCS Youth Programs: EQ in Action


Our upcoming 2-day Emotional Intelligence retreat in Selangor is designed specifically for youth aged 16 to early 20s. Through interactive workshops, group activities, and guided reflection, participants will:


  • Discover their emotional strengths

  • Practice real-world communication skills

  • Learn tools for mental wellness and self-leadership


Whether they’re preparing for university, entering the workforce, or simply seeking clarity, this program offers a safe space to grow.


Final Thoughts


Gen Z doesn’t just need more information—they need emotional transformation. By investing in EQ, we’re helping build a generation that’s confident, connected, and capable of leading with empathy.


If you're a parent, educator, or youth organization looking to empower young people, reach out to us. Let’s build emotional intelligence together.


Citations

  1. Arifin, W. N., & Yusoff, M. S. B. (2016). Confirmatory Factor Analysis of the Universiti Sains Malaysia Emotional Quotient Inventory Among Medical Students in Malaysia. SAGE Open. Link

  2. WHO South-East Asia Region. Mental Health Status of Adolescents in South-East Asia: Evidence for Action. Link

  3. UNITAR. Emotional Intelligence: A Key Skill for Success Among Today’s Students in Malaysia. Link

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