Young Malaysians could receive some good news soon, with the government expected to announce one or two major initiatives aimed at the youth ahead of National Day on August 31.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the initiatives would be announced after he reviews suggestions and views on efforts to further support young people.
“Insya-Allah, I will listen and consider them. With the capabilities we have, we will do our best for the youth,” he said during the Anwar Meets Youth session at the 2026 International Youth Gathering (HAMKA) here on Thursday.
Anwar said August 31 would not be the only key date for potential announcements, as he is also scheduled to be in Kuching, Sarawak for Malaysia Day celebrations on September 16, followed by the tabling of Budget 2027 in early October.
He described the three periods as important opportunities for the government to announce measures involving the development and welfare of Malaysians, including the younger generation.
Anwar said the government would continue to take young people’s views into account when formulating policies and initiatives that reflect current needs.
He also acknowledged that the economic and employment landscape has changed, with more young Malaysians entering emerging fields such as the digital economy, small businesses and the gig sector.
He said government policies must evolve alongside these changes to create wider opportunities for the younger generation.
Meanwhile, Anwar said the government would look at simplifying the process for graduates seeking financing from the National Entrepreneurial Group Economic Fund (TEKUN) to start their own businesses.
Under existing requirements, applicants may need to have a three-year business track record before qualifying for certain financing. Anwar said such conditions should be reviewed as the business landscape has changed.
He said the government wanted to support fresh graduates who aspire to become entrepreneurs, including those venturing into small-scale businesses and the digital economy.
“Earlier, it was suggested that graduates who want to start a business have to wait three years and have a record before they can obtain a TEKUN loan.
“But circumstances have changed. That is why we will simplify the process,” he said.
Anwar also revealed that the government is working on a new Bill concerning small businesses to ensure existing regulations remain relevant to the changing economic landscape.
He said he had instructed the Human Resources Ministry to prepare the proposed legislation this year.
