PORT DICKSON: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today announced a RM5 million annual allocation for the Malaysian Youth Council (MBM) to empower young people.
Anwar said the move was in recognition of the hard work and seriousness of MBM leadership led by its president Mohd Izzat Afifi Abdul Hamid, in supporting the Malaysia Madani concept.
"MBM is special because its affiliates, representing various associations, races and religions, can bring youth together in the spirit of unity. MBM is important in saving our country and building new strength," he said in his speech at the National Youth Day 2023 celebration at the Port Dickson District and Land Office field here today.
Also present were Negri Sembilan Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun and Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh.
Anwar said MBM needs to provide a detailed report on its plan to increase the membership of youth in associations.
"Secondly, how to get more women participation at all levels, including MBM leadership, and thirdly, how to intensify programmes related to the economy, training, welfare and youth awareness in fulfilling their responsibilities in this country," he said.
In the meantime, Anwar said youth must have confidence, idealism, and principles, in addition to being respectful to one another and saying no to corruption.
"Today's youth must realise that they are the ones who will determine their future, provided that they have the commitment, willingness to learn, reject corruption and tyranny, and uphold people's dignity," he said.
In conjunction with the National Youth Day celebration themed "Ini Masa Kita" (This is Our Time), he reminded the youth against using religion and race to destroy the nation.
Anwar, who once led MBM in the 1970s, said that he was determined to fight corruption today due to the spirit and principles of the previous members. --Bernama