KUALA LUMPUR — Six youth-led policy proposals aimed at enhancing Malaysia’s participation in the green economy and accelerating digital adoption were presented during a roundtable discussion with Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo on Tuesday. The session, held at Menara MOF Inc, was part of preparations for the upcoming Youth Economic Forum (YEF) 2026.
Organised by the Perdana Fellows Alumni Association (PFAA), the roundtable focused on harnessing artificial intelligence (AI), expanding green economy opportunities, and upgrading skills to support Malaysia’s economic growth over the next decade. PFAA president Fanitsyara Kam Phon described the event as a continuation of discussions held with Deputy Finance Minister Liew Chin Tong in mid-August.
“We aim to refine these youth-driven ideas through collaboration with government and industry stakeholders before submitting a final policy paper at YEF 2026, which will take place on Oct. 3 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre,” Fanitsyara said.
The six proposals address various dimensions of innovation and inclusivity, including AI adoption by small and medium enterprises and traditional sectors under the “AI for Every Business, Every Malaysian” initiative. Another key proposal is the establishment of a Green Economy Access Fund designed to facilitate youth involvement in sustainable value chains.
Additional recommendations include a National Skills Upgrading Credit for Youth that would enable modular certification stacking toward professional qualifications or master’s degrees, and a National Foreign Direct Investment Mandate linking foreign investments to domestic talent development and supplier opportunities. There is also a proposal to use AI to improve public service delivery, aiming to reduce wait times and streamline citizens’ interactions with government agencies. Lastly, the creation of a National Youth Economic Action Council would provide a formal platform for youth participation in economic policymaking.
Fanitsyara highlighted research indicating that over 95% of buyers currently use AI and digital tools, while demand is increasingly shifting towards green economy sectors where future employment is expected to grow. She noted that young people are calling for support beyond salary assistance, specifically seeking help in acquiring skills aligned with emerging job markets.
In terms of specific policy incentives, Fanitsyara mentioned proposals for tax relief tied to successful AI implementation and a micro-credit stacking system to support digital and AI skill acquisition, potentially culminating in master’s level qualifications.
This year’s YEF will also mark a milestone with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim confirmed as its first keynote speaker, underscoring the government’s commitment to engaging youth in shaping Malaysia’s economic future.