(On stage, from second left) FT Youth and Sports Department director Nizam Ismail, Dr Zaliha and FT Youth Council president Khairul Rizam Abu Samah at the meeting. — CHAN TAK KONG/The Star
HEALTH and education are among key points raised during the second session of the Federal Territory National Youth Consultative Council meeting.
Importance was placed on early health screenings and education support for low-income students.
The meeting in Kuala Lumpur, chaired by Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Dr Zaliha Mustafa, welcomed the participation of 70 youth leaders and civil servants.
Federal Territories Youth Council (MBWP) executive committee member Dr Loshseni Gunasegaran, 32, presented the motion on health, emphasising mandatory medical checks from a young age.
“Now, the focus is on health screenings for older generations.
Dr Loshseni wants mandatory health screenings for youths.
“However, youths often occupy many hospital emergency beds because they had not taken early precautions,” she said.
She added that early medical screenings could prevent such issues and free up critical care resources for elderly patients.
Dr Loshseni also highlighted the need for mental health support, proposing a specialist bureau at every agency and non-governmental organisation.
“Mental health issues are prevalent among youths. Increasing exposure and support through such bureaus can help address these challenges,” she said.
On the education front, MBWP exco member Chiang Wei Luan, 36, suggested free tuition for students from low-income families.
“Providing free tuition to B40 students can prevent them from falling behind in their studies and cultivate a passion for learning,” she said.
She pointed out the economic pressures faced by many families, citing a study by United Nations Children’s Fund and the United Nations Population Fund.
“The average monthly income of heads of households in Kuala Lumpur’s public housing programmes has dropped by a third, partly due to Covid-19 movement control restrictions.
“This economic strain makes it hard for families to afford more learning resources, thus making free tuition an important support,” she added.
Meanwhile, Dr Zaliha said with youths comprising nearly 40% of Malaysia’s 34.7 million population, their involvement in policymaking was vital.
She acknowledged that youths today faced huge challenges, including unemployment, mental health issues and poverty.
Recent Statistics Department data which revealed a youth unemployment rate of 6% affecting 439,700 individuals, was concerning, she added.
“The government is committed to crafting policies and development plans that foster the economic and social well-being of our citizens,” she said.
“However, all segments of society need to be involved to achieve this.
“As future leaders of our country, youth engagement is crucial.
“We must support and guide them to reach their full potential.”
Dr Zaliha later said the motions tabled reflected genuine concerns and issues that resonated with Malaysian youth.
