DEPUTY Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has urged the Ministry of Rural and Regional Development (KKDW) to spearhead the creation of a Comprehensive Rural Youth Development Plan to equip Malaysia’s rural youth with the skills, knowledge, and digital literacy needed to thrive in an increasingly complex and competitive global landscape.
Speaking at KKDW’s Monthly Assembly, Ahmad Zahid, who also serves as Rural and Regional Development Minister, said the proposed plan would aim to create job opportunities, enhance youth leadership, and provide international exposure through targeted initiatives.
“Through this plan, we can also introduce the ASEAN Rural Youth Exchange Programme, offering our young people the opportunity to gain knowledge and experience on an international platform,” Bernama reported him saying.
He added that the plan would include the creation of Rural Gig Hubs to support youth employment and the appointment of Rural Youth Ambassadors to represent and inspire a new generation of rural leaders.
"Our goal is clear, I want Malaysian Rural Youth to penetrate borders, explore the world and compete on the global stage. They are not just the heirs of the nation, but the country's strategic assets and drivers of Malaysia's future," he said.
Ahmad Zahid expressed confidence that the ministry, through its agencies, could effectively develop and implement the plan via a dedicated coordinating platform or committee.
Reflecting on a message delivered by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim during a leadership meeting with KKDW in March, Ahmad Zahid emphasised the Prime Minister’s directive to ensure all rural development projects are implemented effectively and deliver tangible, meaningful benefits to the people.
"The Prime Minister also reminded us that monitoring must be carried out diligently and comprehensively, with accurate reports submitted to Cabinet Ministers and that all arising issues should be addressed without delay," he said.
As part of the ministry’s response, Ahmad Zahid proposed the introduction of a transparent monthly performance schedule to track the progress of development initiatives and aid delivery.
He also stressed the importance of data-driven policy and action.
“We must move based on data, lead with information and act with confidence. The guidance and direction are already in place, now it's time for us to focus on delivering real, impactful actions on the ground, not just plans that look good on paper,” he said.
Turning to early childhood development, Ahmad Zahid called on the Community Development Department (KEMAS) to intensify its engagement with parents and educators to assess the impact of the KEMAS Pre-Tahfiz Programme, which has been in place for a year.
“These engagements are crucial for gathering feedback and suggestions for improvements, including the proposal to establish a Special Needs Nursery,” he said.
He concluded by reaffirming that rural programmes must drive real social mobility and meaningful transformation. “KKDW must ensure that every programme genuinely impacts people’s lives and delivers meaningful change,” he said. - May 8, 2025
