Ipoh: As the Perak Youth Council commemorates its 10th anniversary, there is a strong call for it to evolve and remain a platform that genuinely reflects the aspirations of young people today. State Education, Higher Education, Youth and Sports Committee chairman Datuk Khairudin Abu Hanipah emphasized the importance of this evolution during the closing address for the Fifth Session of the Perak State Youth Council conference.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Khairudin highlighted the significant changes the Council has undergone over the past decade, which have positively impacted its operations and program delivery. An increased allocation from the state government is set to support various activities and programs, paving the way for further development of the Perak Youth Council.
Khairudin announced the upcoming Perak Sejahtera ASEAN Youth Conference 2026, scheduled for later this year. This event aims to provide the Council's delegates with a new experience, fostering engagement with youth from ASEAN countries and representatives from other Malaysian states. The conference is seen as an opportunity to enhance leadership skills and elevate the profile of the Perak Youth Council.
While acknowledging the progress made, Khairudin noted that there are still areas for improvement to maintain the Council's appeal to young people. He stressed the importance of ongoing development to align with the evolving needs and aspirations of the youth, consistent with the state government's focus on youth development.
Khairudin expressed hope that the delegates' experiences with the Perak Youth Council would extend beyond their tenure, which concludes this December. He encouraged them to utilize their acquired knowledge and skills in community service and societal contributions.
During the session, delegates approved nine out of 11 motions presented, with the remaining two left open for debate. Approved motions include incentives for first-time marriages, enhancements in rural mobility, athlete development, green youth initiatives, and the Perak Youth Travel Card, among others.