The Youth Development Cabinet Committee strengthens young people’s voice in national policy-making, with new programmes approved to enhance political literacy and data systems.
KUALA LUMPUR: The newly formed Youth Development Cabinet Committee (JKPB) is amplifying the voices of young Malaysians at the highest levels of government.
Ahmad Fahmi Mohd Samsudin, president of the Muslim Youth Movement of Malaysia (ABIM), said the committee provides direct government access to youth input and insights.
He noted existing platforms like the National Youth Consultative Council already unite youth groups to elevate proposals.
“All motions and working papers presented by youth can be escalated to higher levels, allowing grassroots voices to be considered in government policies,” he said on Bernama TV’s Ruang Bicara programme.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi announced the JKPB has approved three key focus papers.
These papers centre on youth democracy, empowering youth as change agents, and strengthening data systems. Approved initiatives include the Young People Power Programme (KOM) and the Malaysia Generasi Sejahtera Programme (MyGENTERA).
A not in employment, education or training (NEET) youth profile will also be developed to strengthen the national youth development ecosystem. Commenting on the KOM programme, Ahmad Fahmi emphasised that political literacy extends beyond elections.
He said it shapes values like social concern and awareness of the impact of decisions. Ahmad Fahmi proposed creating more face-to-face discussion labs on national issues to channel youth ideas actively.
He believes democracy education should start early in schools to build an understanding of civic responsibility. Dr Mohd Fauzi Fadzil, a senior lecturer featured on the programme, said the cabinet-level committee could cut bureaucratic red tape.
He noted this approach previously made it difficult for youth voices to reach top policymakers. Mohd Fauzi stressed that involving various parties, including NGOs, contributes to a more inclusive and impartial process.
He also said political education must distinguish between teaching about politics and teaching to do politics. Mohd Fauzi emphasised that the focus should be on democracy, nationhood and the Federal Constitution.
