Rakan Muda Programme Strengthened to Develop High-Quality and Competitive Youth Leaders
SUNGAI PETANI: The Rakan Muda Programme will continue to be strengthened as a key national platform for youth development, aimed at producing high-quality, competitive and future-ready leaders for Malaysia.
Minister of Youth and Sports, Mohammed Taufiq Johari, said the government remains committed to implementing the programme comprehensively, from school level to higher education institutions, including rural areas.
He stressed that holistic youth development requires a structured approach that goes beyond academic achievement to include character building, leadership skills, life competencies and social awareness.
“Our goal is to nurture young Malaysians who are not only academically capable, but also resilient, disciplined and prepared to take on leadership responsibilities,” he said.
He was speaking after presenting scout uniforms to 240 students from 14 schools in the Sungai Petani parliamentary constituency at SMK Bandar Puteri Jaya.
Increased Funding for Youth Development
Mohammed Taufiq said the government had doubled the allocation for the Rakan Muda Programme from RM20 million last year to RM40 million in 2026, reflecting its strong commitment to youth empowerment.
He explained that the increased funding would be used to expand programme coverage, enhance training quality, improve facilities and strengthen development modules.
“The ministry will continue to engage with relevant stakeholders to ensure that this programme delivers maximum impact nationwide,” he said.
He added that youth development represents a long-term investment that will shape Malaysia’s future direction.
Lifestyle-Based Development Approach
The Rakan Muda Programme currently encompasses 10 lifestyle components, including Rakan Demokrasi, Rakan Aktif, Rakan Digital, Rakan Niaga and Rakan Prihatin.
According to Mohammed Taufiq, this integrated approach aims to develop youth in a balanced manner, covering physical, mental, emotional, social and economic aspects.
“Each component is designed to enhance young people’s potential in leadership, entrepreneurship, digital skills, volunteerism and environmental sustainability,” he said.
He noted that such a comprehensive framework is crucial in preparing youth for globalisation and the digital economy.
Support for Schools and Learning Environment
During the event, the minister also presented a RM790,000 cheque for school repairs and upgrades in the Sungai Petani constituency.
He said nearly RM2 million had been allocated under the Mesra Rakyat Programme to benefit almost 40 schools.
“These funds are aimed at improving infrastructure and transforming schools into more digital, comfortable and interactive learning environments,” he said.
He emphasised that a conducive learning environment plays a vital role in supporting holistic youth development.
Nurturing Future Leaders
Mohammed Taufiq said the Rakan Muda Programme is more than a co-curricular initiative, as it serves as a foundation for national leadership development.
He explained that active participation in the programme helps young people build confidence, resilience and social responsibility.
“We want to produce a generation that is confident, critical-thinking, creative and guided by strong values,” he said.
He also called for stronger collaboration between the government, schools, parents and communities to ensure the programme’s long-term success.
With sustained support and strategic implementation, he believes the Rakan Muda Programme can become a catalyst for building a progressive, united and resilient Malaysian society.
-wilayah.com.my
