18-05-2025
Policy change must not be implemented hastily: Ellron
Published on: Sunday, May 18, 2025
Published on: Sun, May 18, 2025
By: Cynthia D Baga Text Size: 'We want to ensure that the voice of Sabah youth continues to be heard, their potential continues to be nurtured and their struggle continues to be empowered within a clear, secure and forward-thinking framework,' Ellron said. THE Sabah Ministry of Youth and Sports (KBSS) is actively implementing inclusive and transformative action plans to ensure the youth age transition policy from 15-40 years to a new range of 15-30 years, effective Jan 1, 2026, truly strengthens the youth movement. Its Minister Datuk Ellron Alfred Angin said this policy change must not be implemented hastily without taking into account the realities on the ground, especially in Sabah which has diverse community structures, various forms of youth organisations and differing levels of grassroots leadership readiness.
Advertisement The policy was recently decided at the Federal Government level. 'In line with this objective, the Ministry is now working closely with the Sabah Youth Council to design and realise a legal framework specifically for the development of the State's young generation, namely the Sabah Youth Development Enactment. 'This enactment will become the main foundation for strengthening the governance of youth organisations, expanding recognition of activism and volunteerism, and providing breathing space for youth leaders to manage and build the strength of their organisations during this transition period. 'We want to ensure that the voice of Sabah youth continues to be heard, their potential continues to be nurtured and their struggle continues to be empowered within a clear, secure and forward-thinking framework,' he said.
Advertisement In addition, to empower youth in the State, the KBSS will continue to double its efforts with a comprehensive and responsive approach by implementing key initiatives. 'One of the main initiatives currently being implemented includes the Sabah Youth Entrepreneur Success Scheme (Syabas), where more than 2,500 youths have benefited in the form of financing, guidance and digital empowerment. 'Young entrepreneurs in Sabah are now not only trading at night markets or small stalls, but also active on e-commerce platforms, in modern agriculture and the digital creative economy,' he said. To ensure the sustainability and effectiveness of youth organisation operations across Sabah, the disbursement of the Youth Organisation Grant serves as a strategic form of support aimed at strengthening the capacity and capability of youth associations in implementing high-impact programmes and initiatives for the community. 'This grant is not just financial assistance, but it is recognition of the active role of youth organisations as catalysts for national development and the shaping of young people's identity. 'The State Government provides short- and long-term courses specifically to produce skilled youth in fields such as automotive, smart agriculture, IT and industrial services that are aligned with current industry demand,' said Ellron. * Follow us on Instagram and join our Telegram and/or WhatsApp channel(s) for the latest news you don't want to miss. * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available.
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