Johor bahru: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi today presented several reform agenda proposals for the MARA Education Foundation (YPM) to empower its role so that it remains relevant and has a high impact on youth development in the country. Ahmad Zahid, also the Minister of Rural and Regional Development, emphasized the importance of increasing the number of YPM Squad members to more than 2,000 people nationwide, with Johor playing a significant role in the implementation.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ahmad Zahid highlighted the need for a focus on Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) through collaboration with institutions under MARA, such as GIATMARA, Kolej Kemahiran Tinggi MARA (KKTM), Institut Kemahiran MARA (IKM), and Universiti Kuala Lumpur. He suggested that Johor, with its robust industrial ecosystem, should serve as an example to other states in promoting TVET as a future pathway. This was conveyed during a media conference after the launch of the state-level 2025 YPM Squad at Larkin Indoor Stadium.
The event saw the participation of over 5,000 attendees, including young volunteers, the MARA community, local leaders, and representatives from government and private agencies. Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi and MARA chairman Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki were also present. Ahmad Zahid proposed that YPM expand its targeted assistance to youth in rural and remote areas through data and grassroots collaboration to ensure aid reaches those in need.
He further stated that support for the YPM Secretariat and Sabahat YPM at the state and parliamentary levels should be increased to enable them to conduct proactive and impactful activities. Ahmad Zahid expressed confidence that the reforms would help build a generation of youth who are knowledgeable, of noble character, and capable of leading Malaysia on the world stage.
The YPM Squad initiative is a strategic move by the foundation to empower youth as agents of social change, education, and community development via a "youth for youth" approach. The launch also featured the presentation of a mock cheque for RM1.8 million from the Johor government to YPM, demonstrating a commitment to youth education and development.