YOUTH in Malaysia have more courage to become “important people” in policy-making and government policies, Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh said.

She said the Youth and Sports Ministry is aware youngsters have evolved, with the speed of technology with challenging economic, social and political changes.

“Youth are also now more courageous. They want to be involved and be part of the solution to a problem,” she said when officiating at the 2023 National Youth Awards in Putrajaya today.

According to Yeoh, based on data of the Statistics Department, Malaysian youth aged between 15 and 30 years in 2022 totalled 9.6 million people, which is almost 30% of all Malaysians.

“The quality and wellbeing of the youth’s life should be a priority because they are leaders who will chart the direction and future of the country,” she said.

She said several engagement sessions were held with stakeholders, including youth, through townhall sessions with the Malaysian Youth Council as well as a Budget 2024 consultative session to listen to the challenges and suggestions of young people.

Meanwhile, Yeoh said the newly revamped Rakan Muda initiative now has 1.07 million members with 3,888 programmes implemented.

The programme, re-launched by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on June 25, involves 10 new lifestyles, which are Rakan Demokrasi, Rakan Litar, Rakan Aktif, Rakan Bumi, Rakan Digital, Rakan Ekspresi, Rakan Mahir, Rakan Niaga and Rakan Prihatin.

“I want as many young people as possible to benefit from these programmes (Rakan Muda), especially in empowering each other’s potential and talents, improving skills and expanding networking,” said Yeoh.

In a press conference later, Yeoh said an allocation of RM20 million from Budget 2024 will be channelled to each state to hold Rakan Muda programmes. – Bernama, November 11, 2023.