IPOH: The RM40mil allocation for the Rakan Muda programme as announced during the tabling of Budget 2026 on Friday (Oct 10) is significant as it could be used to lower unemployment rate amongst youth, says Hannah Yeoh.
The Youth and Sports Minister said funds could be used under the Rakan Mahir initiative to equip youth with skills so they have better chances in seeking employment.
"One of the factors for unemployment amongst youth was their low proficiency in English.
"We will use the allocations under Rakan Mahir to prepare and empower them, so that the unemployment rate can be lowered," she said in a press conference after the launching of the National Sports Day by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim at the Sultan Azlan Shah Roundabout here on Saturday (Oct 11).
During the tabling of the Budget, Anwar announced RM40mil for the Rakan Muda programme.
Yeoh said the Ministry was happy with the 60% increase in allocation for the programme.
"The RM25mil this year was not enough. We have 10 lifestyles (under Rakan Muda) and a lot of districts to cover," she said.
"With more (allocation), we can achieve our Key Performance Index," she said, adding that grant applications from community and grassroot associations to prepare for training and sports activities would also be smoother.
