Kuala lumpur: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today announced a RM5 million allocation for the Malaysian Youth Council (MBM) to strengthen the umbrella body's role in advancing youth development in the country. He said the additional RM1 million allocation compared with last year was recognition of MBM's role as the main driver of the national youth agenda under the Ministry of Youth and Sports (KBS), while reflecting the government's continued commitment to supporting youth development programmes.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, MBM is recognized as the sole youth association under the KBS. Anwar confirmed the increase in allocation when officiating the 2026 National Youth Day celebration. Also present at the event were Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun and Youth and Sports Minister Dr Mohammed Taufiq Johari.

Meanwhile, Anwar highlighted the government's financial support under the Islamic Development Programme, benefiting 7,091 Kelas Al-Quran dan Fardu Ain (KAFA) teachers, imams, takmir teachers, and mosque personnel in Negeri Sembilan, with a total commitment of RM42.3 million. Support will also extend to Islamic educational institutions such as pondok schools, tahfiz centres, religious schools, and KAFA premises operating outside the Education Ministry's supervision, with RM5.4 million allocated for maintenance and institutional strengthening.

The Prime Minister also mentioned three approved projects in Negeri Sembilan by the Prime Minister's Department Implementation Coordination Unit (ICU), involving RM800,000 for minor repairs at Maahad Tahfiz Al-Quran Al-Falah Kuala Sawah Rantau, Madrasah Az-Zaakiriin, and Pondok Pesantren Darul Tauhid.

In his earlier speech, Anwar praised Aminuddin's resilience and determination in navigating the state's prolonged political challenges while prioritising the people's welfare. Anwar expressed his appreciation for Aminuddin's steadfast leadership and focus on state development despite facing continuous political pressures.