Among the groups it aims to help specifically are students in schools, and youths, especially school leavers, who are unemployed or not undergoing any education or training activities. The objective is to help them explore their personal interests, Bernama reported.

“The Rakan Muda programme is ongoing, but we want it to return as a flagship programme of the ministry,” he was quoted as saying after flagging off the Neon Night Fun Run and Run Walk Programme here last night.

Adam said they will implement various improvements so that Rakan Muda will have a more comprehensive and positive impact on youth.

He added this includes potential development and character-building aspects based on their needs and current development.

Elaborating, Adam said efforts to strengthen the programme would involve collaboration with various quarters, including youth and sports associations in this country.

Introduced in 1994, Rakan Muda is a programme to foster interest, hone talent and highlight the personal potential of youth aged 15 to 25.

It aims to produce positive youth who are competitive, skilled and responsible in building the country’s future to achieve the goals of the Malaysian Youth Policy.