KUALA LUMPUR: Barisan Nasional’s manifesto for youth, to be presented tonight, will encompass all the group’s needs and wants without discriminating between urban and rural people.
BN Youth chief Khairy Jamaluddin said the manifesto aimed to improve the lot of the youth and help them become more productive.
The pledges, he said, lent equal attention to all sections of youth, be they single, married, career women, graduates, disabled or entrepreneurs.
He said BN’s efforts in the last five years would not stop, but that the party had a big plan that would benefit youth in the next five years.
In a 3-minute 31-second video, he said this manifesto pledged to help youth own their first home, create jobs and increase their pay, and covered training incentives, entrepreneurial aid, healthcare, broadband Internet and transportation.
“My promise is, if you are looking for a job, we will secure a job offer or training opportunity within six months. Those who want more money, we’ll help them get a raise or provide incentives for skills training.
“We will ensure flexible working hours for women. Women empowerment forever! After that, we will help all segments... both civil servants and the private sector.
“We will not forget rural folk. I will ensure that we create many economic opportunities for them. This is my guarantee.”
For young entrepreneurs, he said, BN promised to continue existing aids and pledged to reduce red tape in securing loans.
He said young entrepreneurs, through the Youth Entrepreneur Network portal, could apply for loans, grants and training online.
He said BN’s manifesto this time paid special attention to those about to get married.
“If you’re getting married, let us make it easier for you. When you’re married and have kids, we’ll continue helping you through funds such as ADAM50.”
He said the number of affordable and transit homes would be increased to allow youth to own their first real estate.
He said access to transportation, cheaper Internet and free health checks would be made easier for youth, and pledged to open up opportunities for disabled youth.
“We will ensure that no one is left behind. What’s important is for this next generation to bring Malaysia towards TN50 (National Transformation 2050).
“This is our time. The government is laying out the opportunities. Let’s grab and savour them. This is our promise to the youths.”