Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad announced today that the government has agreed to appoint a youth representative as a senator. 

He also suggested that the appointment be made as soon as possible, to enhance the voice of the younger generation in decision-making.

"We will ensure that the voice of the younger generation will always be given attention and consideration in every process of government decision-making at all levels – district, state, national and international.

“The focus and priority in developing the young generation through various initiatives will continue to be implemented and empowered by the government,” he said when launching the National Youth Day 2019 at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia.

Also present were Mahathir's wife Dr Siti Hasmah Mohamad Ali, Youth and Sports Minister Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman and Malaysian Youth Council President Jufitri Joha.

The prime minister said youths, who will be the future generation of leaders, must be absorbed into the administration and given roles in the effort to develop the country.

At the event, Mahathir also launched the ‘Youth Power Club’, which will increase the involvement of youths in grassroots-level community work.

He also disclosed that more than RM50 million would be allocated for the implementation of the Youth Power programme for this year and the next. This includes RM7.4 million to activate Youth Power Clubs in 222 areas across the country this year.

"The allocation in the form of grants for the Youth Power programme can be applied for by all registered associations, including those who have never received any assistance from the government previously,” he said.

In addition, in order to widen access to sports and recreational facilities to all youths, the government was allocating a special fund of RM100 million in the year 2020 to develop rural sports infrastructure together with the private sector.

- Bernama