Melaka’s youth development focus includes 100+ initiatives and a Youth Council, with 490,000 youths shaping state policies and budget planning
ALOR GAJAH: Youth development remains the primary focus of the Melaka state government’s administration according to Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh.
He emphasised that youths serve as pillars of thinkers, movers, and innovators who will drive Melaka toward a more progressive future.
“As of last September, almost 490,000 of Melaka’s 1.05 million population are youths aged 15 to 40, and more than 324,000 of them are registered voters,” he said.
“This clearly shows that today’s youth are no longer mere observers in the democratic system.”
He noted that youths play a decisive role in shaping the state’s direction over the next 10 to 20 years, including job opportunities, digital innovation, and social policies affecting every family.
Ab Rauf spoke at the “Rakan Muda Rakan Demokrasi: Undi Orang Muda / Simulasi Pilihan Raya” programme attended by State Youth, Sports, and NGO Committee chairman Datuk VP Shanmugam.
The state government has implemented more than 100 specific initiatives for youth, including establishing the Melaka Youth Council.
This council ensures youth voices are heard at the state leadership level according to the Chief Minister.
Following the first Youth Council meeting last August, 11 motions were tabled and are now being studied for the 2026 State Budget.
“The government’s goal is clear,” Ab Rauf stated.
“Every policy formulated, every project launched, and every opportunity created must reach all levels of youth in the state.”
He urged the young generation to utilise available platforms wisely to channel aspirations, ideas, and suggestions constructively.
He emphasised that every youth voice should become a catalyst for positive change in Melaka.
Regarding the “Rakan Muda Rakan Demokrasi” Programme, he said it exposes youths to democracy basics while raising awareness of their critical role in determining the state and nation’s future.
He concluded that every choice has an impact on society and future generations. – Bernama
