ALOR GAJAH, Nov 22 (Bernama) -- The youth development agenda is the focus of the Melaka government's administration, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh.
He said that the agenda is a priority because youths are the pillars of thinkers, movers, and innovators who will drive Melaka towards 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.
“This clearly shows that today’s youth are no longer mere observers in the democratic system. They play a decisive role in shaping the state’s direction over the next 10 to 20 years, including areas such as job opportunities, digital innovation, and social policies that affect every family,” he said.
He was speaking at the “Rakan Muda Rakan Demokrasi: Undi Orang Muda / Simulasi Pilihan Raya” programme, which was also attended by State Youth, Sports, and NGO Committee chairman Datuk VP Shanmugam.
The state government, he said, has implemented more than 100 specific initiatives for youth, including the establishment of the Melaka Youth Council to ensure that youth voices are heard at the state leadership level.
He noted that following the first Youth Council meeting held last August, 11 motions were tabled and are now being studied to guide the drafting of the 2026 State Budget.
“The government’s goal is clear. Every policy formulated, every project launched, and every opportunity created must reach all levels of youth in the state.
“I also urge the young generation to utilise the available platforms wisely...to channel aspirations, ideas, and suggestions constructively, so that every youth voice becomes a catalyst for positive change in Melaka,” he said.
Regarding the “Rakan Muda Rakan Demokrasi” Programme, he said, it not only exposes youths to the basics of democracy but also raises awareness of their critical role in determining the future of the state and nation, as every choice has an impact on society and future generations.
-- BERNAMA
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