SHAH ALAM, Sept 3 (Bernama) -- The Rural and Regional Development Ministry (KKDW) has outlined five pillars and 10 key commitments under the Rural Youth Resolution 2035 to strengthen the rural youth development agenda as a cornerstone of the country’s progress.
Deputy Rural and Regional Development Minister Datuk Rubiah Wang said the resolution was drawn up following the 2026 Rural Youth Convention, which brought together rural youth leaders, educational institutions, government agencies, industry representatives and academics.
She said the first pillar focuses on leadership, patriotism and volunteerism among rural youth, who want greater opportunities to participate in decision-making, including as representatives on the National Youth Consultative Council (MPBN).
“The second pillar, covering the economy, entrepreneurship and income, focuses on the livelihoods of young people, particularly employment, while the third pillar focuses on education, including Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), as well as future-ready skills.
“The other two pillars outlined in the resolution cover digitalisation, artificial intelligence (AI) and innovation, as well as holistic wellbeing and inclusion,” she said.
She was speaking at the launch of the resolution and closing ceremony of the Rural Youth Convention here today, which was also attended by KKDW deputy secretary-general (Development) Datuk Dr Roslan Mahmood.
Rubiah said the 10 commitments under the five pillars include efforts to strengthen governance and foster leadership in support of sustainable rural development.
“The commitments include developing high-impact rural economies, fostering world-class entrepreneurship and strengthening education and human capital.
“The commitments also cover strengthening training, skills and employability, equipping rural youth with AI skills, promoting environmental sustainability and developing a future-ready ecosystem,” she said.
She said the government aims to ensure rural areas thrive through economic and commercial activities, while giving young people the opportunity to shape their own futures,” she said, stressing that rural youth should not be sidelined, as they are an integral part of the country’s future.
At the opening of the Rural Youth Convention on Sept 1, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi called on rural youth to venture into high-value sectors and move from being opportunity seekers to opportunity creators, while improving their economic standing and competitiveness.
Ahmad Zahid said academic qualifications alone were no longer enough, with rural youth also needing industry-relevant skills such as problem-solving and value creation to keep pace with rapid developments.
-- BERNAMA