Budget 2027: Pahang Youths Seek Greater Focus On Mental Health, Starting Salaries

KUANTAN, Sept 7 (Bernama) -- Mental health, fairer starting salaries and opportunities to strengthen skills are among the issues Pahang youths hope will be addressed in Budget 2027.

Pahang Youth Council president Saharuddin Ahmad said mental health awareness efforts should be strengthened to encourage young people to recognise early signs of problems and seek help when needed.

“I hope next year's Budget will focus on mental health not only through treatment services but also by stepping up awareness campaigns at community level,” he told Bernama.

He said such campaigns should be conducted widely, including through digital platforms, to make information more accessible to young people.

Saharuddin also called for starting salaries to better reflect young workers' skills and rising living costs, saying adequate income would help them meet basic needs, save money and plan for home ownership.

Meanwhile, Taman Aneka Jaya Unity Youth Club (BPJAYA) chairman R Darrshan said Budget 2027 should also focus on improving young people's knowledge of taxation, particularly the Inland Revenue Board's (LHDN) e-Filing system.

“Government assistance should not necessarily be in the form of financial aid, but should also include knowledge. Such exposure is important so young people are better prepared for their tax responsibilities,” he said.

He proposed that tax education programmes be conducted in a more informal and accessible manner through collaboration between the government, youth associations and local non-governmental organisations (NGOs).

Meanwhile, Pahang Traditional Archery Association chairman Mohd Zhafran Md Zin urged the government to support alternative sports that promote physical activity, discipline and skills among young people.

He said traditional archery also offers opportunities to learn skills such as making bows and arrows while promoting the country's heritage.

“Through this, we can encourage young people to spend their time on beneficial activities while introducing them to our traditional heritage and skills,” he said.

-- BERNAMA