WITH financial stress and high cost of living weighing heavily on many, Johor Youth Council has started an initiative to assist young people in mental health and financial education.
Its president Mohammad Alif A. Rahim said it collaborated with Health Ministry to carry out a series of events focusing on mental health awareness.
“We had the first event a few months ago at a mall in Johor Baru, which received participation from more than 60 youths.
“The goal is not just to raise awareness, but to also connect young people with the right support, whether it’s mental health services, financial advice or employment guidance,” he said.
The event included sharing sessions by mental health experts, while those who needed further assistance were able to speak privately with professionals or book consultations for later.
Mohammad Alif: More than 60 people took part in the first event at JB mall.
“There were participants who shared that their stress was linked to financial issues.
“In such cases, we guide them to the right channels, such as the Insolvency Department,” said Mohammad Alif.
He said financial hardship was among the most pressing issues faced by youths in Johor today, especially due to the state’s proximity to Singapore.
“Our cost of living is high, and many young people earning local wages find it hard to keep up.
“They’re essentially competing with a cross-border workforce earning in Singapore dollars.”
He said the council planned to expand the programme to other districts in order to reach more young people.
“This is not just to help those who are struggling, but also to give them the resources to help others in need around them.
“Even if you’re doing okay, learning how to help your peers or knowing where to turn for support can make a big difference,” Mohammad Alif said.
He also noted that while artificial intelligence (AI) tools could provide basic information on mental health, such tools lack the human touch needed for deeper, long-term support.
“Although we have advanced technology such as AI today, it can only go so far.
“At the end of the day, people still need people. The human touch is essential,” he said.
