MELAKA: The state of Melaka has allocated RM452,185 this year to carry out 103 programs aimed at youth development, according to V.P. Shanmugam, the chairman of the State Youth Development, Sports, and Non-Governmental Organisations Committee. The funding, distributed under the Progressive Youth Programme, is designed to support registered youth associations, sports associations, and non-governmental organisations.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the initiative has benefited a total of 60 associations or NGOs. These include 22 associations in Alor Gajah, 27 in Melaka Tengah, two in Jasin, and two in other districts. The allocation also supports events such as the National Youth Awards, the Youth Consultative Council, National Youth Day at the state level, and the Melaka Youth Assembly, as Shanmugam stated during a session at the Melaka state legislative assembly at Seri Negeri.

Responding to a query from Datuk Khaidhirah Abu Zahar (BN-Rim) regarding the expenditure of the RM500,000 allocation for the Progressive Youth Programme, Shanmugam (BN-Gedek) provided a breakdown of the approved applications. These include training and skills development (14 applications), sports management and development (41 applications), Semarak Amal and Semarak Kasih Programmes (24 applications), and other initiatives (20 applications).

Shanmugam emphasized the programme’s role in nurturing the growth of Melaka’s youth by equipping them with essential skills and opportunities to become future leaders. He urged registered youth associations, sports organizations, and NGOs to enhance their efforts in organizing development programs and to strengthen collaboration between the state and the community’s youth.