Budget 2027 Must Raise Youth Incomes, Not Just Increase Aid

Budget 2027 should focus on improving young Malaysians’ earning power instead of relying mainly on financial assistance to ease cost-of-living pressures, according to the Dayak Transformation Organisation (TRADA).

Its president, Joseph Ninting, said young people need better-paying jobs and clearer career opportunities as living costs continue to rise. He highlighted that median wages for workers aged 25 to 29 fell five per cent, from RM2,206 in 2019 to RM2,095 in 2024.

Budget 2027: Youth Need Higher-Paying Careers, Not Just More Assistance

TRADA said government incentives for companies, particularly those investing in Sabah and Sarawak, should be linked to better salaries, local hiring, skills transfers and career progression.

Industries such as artificial intelligence, digital services, advanced manufacturing, renewable energy, engineering and modern agriculture were highlighted as potential growth areas.

The group also called for expanded grants, scholarships and affordable loans for TVET, AI, data analytics, cybersecurity and green technology training.

It proposed a “First Home for Youth” initiative combining affordable housing, rent-to-own schemes and financing support. TRADA stressed that long-term policy should help young Malaysians build wealth and careers rather than simply survive rising costs.