KUALA LUMPUR:The Youth and Sports Ministry (KBS) has stated its commitment to assist the youth movement, spearheaded by the Malaysia Youth Council (MBM), during an online dialogue session with MBM’s supreme council members yesterday.

KBS in a statement said its minister, Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican, who chaired the dialogue session, also announced a RM1 million administrative funding for the MBM and each of the national youth associations under its auspices.

“The ministry and I will continue our undivided commitment to empower the youth movement led by the MBM,” said Reezal Merican.

The ministry said that during the dialogue, Reezal Merican also discussed the efforts and role of the MBM’s supreme council, which is drawn from 19 national youth associations, in the development of youths in the country. Also present was MBM president Jufitri Joha. 

Reezal Merican also explained the current scenario of global youth development affected by COVID-19, including in Malaysia.

He also emphasised the current efforts of the government and the ministry, especially through the Budget 2021 which, among others, touched on employment opportunities, job creation, upskilling and access for youth to the funds and facilities provided by the government, said the statement.

It added that he also touched on MBM’s involvement in drafting the new Youth Development Model to complement the Malaysian Youth Policy 2015-2035.

This would enable the existing youth policy to be strengthened with the latest agenda that touches on the country’s direction, new opportunities for youth in a new economic and technological environment as well as the formation of a youth-driven society.

-- BERNAMA