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| KUALA LUMPUR: Better student aid, stronger mental health support, and greater pathways to quality jobs and entrepreneurship are among the hopes of Malaysian youth and student leaders for the upcoming 2026 Budget.
They said the government must move beyond short-term incentives and deliver sustainable, targeted measures that reflect the real challenges faced by young Malaysians today.
International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) Student Union president Ali Karimi Nasri said the Budget presented a crucial opportunity for the government to respond to what students are experiencing on the ground.
He said the government should introduce targeted measures such as improved financial aid, affordable housing and food assistance programmes that reach those most in need.
"Most of our local students at IIUM come from B40 families, and with the cost of living constantly rising, many are struggling just to get by - from food and rent to transportation.
"We hope to see targeted measures like improved student financial aid, affordable housing and food assistance programmes that truly reach those who need them most," he said.
He said the union also called for greater allocations for students with disabilities to improve campus accessibility and inclusivity.
"Every student deserves an environment that supports their needs and dignity."
Ali Karimi also urged the government to adopt a progressive approach to mental health, suggesting the introduction of mental health insurance or takaful coverage for students, in collaboration with the health and higher education ministries.
He said there was also a need for stronger youth and leadership development initiatives, focusing on measurable impact rather than the number of programmes.
"It's not about how many programmes are launched, but how effective they are in building capable, ethical and visionary young leaders who can contribute meaningfully to the nation's progress," he said.
On the issue of the National Higher Education Fund Corporation (PTPTN), Ali Karimi urged the government to review the existing loan rate, which has remained unchanged for years despite rising living costs.
"This matter was raised during Temu Anwar, and while the Higher Education Ministry responded positively, there has been no tangible progress since then.
"The common excuse of high cumulative unpaid debt should not be placed on the current generation of students, especially when they are already under immense financial pressure," he said, adding that the government should explore fairer repayment mechanisms while ensuring new students receive adequate support.
Selangor Youth Community (SAY) chief executive officer Aiman Syafiq Nazri said many were hoping the 2026 Budget would prioritise quality job creation through meaningful capacity-building programmes that prepare them for the demands of today's workforce.
"Beyond job numbers, what young Malaysians want are real opportunities, programmes that equip them with the right skills and open sustainable career pathways," he said.
Aiman said that stronger support for young entrepreneurs should also be a focus, particularly those exploring innovative, technology-driven and export-ready sectors.
"We are also seeing rising interest in the creative economy. It has tremendous potential to drive both state and national growth if given the right ecosystem support, mentorship and incentives," he said.
Meanwhile, 26-year-old Daniel Iskandar Ahmad said more upskilling and reskilling schemes should be introduced to help young people adapt to the changing job market.
"With automation and digital transformation happening so fast, the government should make continuous learning easier and more affordable for all Malaysians," he said.
Daniel said that while many training initiatives already exist, the main challenge lies in accessibility and alignment with real industry needs.
"Some programmes are too general or not well promoted, so young people don't even know they exist. What we need are courses that are relevant, practical and directly connected to employers or industries that are actually hiring," he said.
He said the government could also consider offering tax rebates or matching grants for youths who take certified digital or technical courses, making lifelong learning a realistic goal rather than a financial burden. |
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