IPOH: A proposal to introduce a RM500 first-time marriage incentive for youths in Perak will be submitted to the relevant state executive council (exco) for further discussion and refinement before being considered under the 2027 state budget.
Perak education, higher education, youth and sports committee chairman Datuk Khairudin Abu Hanipah said the motion proposing the special incentive was unanimously approved during the recent fifth sitting of the Perak Youth Assembly.
He said the proposal reflected the state government's concern and commitment to helping ease the financial burden faced by young people entering marriage.
"We view this as a positive initiative that demonstrates the state government's care and concern by providing some assistance to newly married couples,” he told reporters after representing Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad at the presentation of the state-level National Youth Premier Award and the State Youth Special Award 2026 here on Friday (Aug 28) night.
Khairudin said the proposed assistance would target youths aged between 15 and 35, in line with the definition of youth under the Youth Development and Sports Act 2007 (Act 668).
He added that specific eligibility criteria would also be established, including that applicants must be Perak natives or have resided in the state for at least 10 years.
However, the final details and implementation of the proposed incentive would be subject to deliberation and approval by the exco before any official announcement is made.
"The proposal is expected to be finalised ahead of the presentation of the state budget in November,” he said. – Bernama
