Hannah: Data-Driven Policies, Inclusiveness Crucial For Youth Development

By Vikneswaran Raman

HONG KONG, Sept 27 (Bernama) -- The Youth and Sports Ministry (KBS) has emphasised the importance of data-driven policies, courage to change and inclusive programmes in shaping future-ready youths, particularly in the face of social challenges and an ageing population.

Its minister, Hannah Yeoh said limited budgets should not be a barrier, but instead serve as a catalyst for innovation, sharper decision-making and greater impact.

“Every decision must be anchored in data, because data is our compass. It shows us where the challenges are most urgent, which groups are most vulnerable, and what solutions can deliver the greatest impact,” she told Bernama after delivering her keynote address to over 3,000 delegates from more than 30 countries at the Youth Development Summit 2025 here today.

Citing drowning cases as an example, Hannah said data revealed spikes during monsoon seasons and in flood-prone areas, leading the ministry to introduce free swimming lessons under the Sports Basic Skills Training Programme (KLAS) for underprivileged children.

She said the initiative also serves as a platform for swimming talent scouting, noting that although Malaysia is a country surrounded by water, it has yet to produce an Olympic medallist in the sport.

“Data shows that the likelihood of a flood victim surviving is higher if they know how to swim. In 2023, flash flood events globally stood at 130, while in 2025 the number is projected to rise to 165. With that data, we identified drowning hotspots across Malaysia and launched free swimming lessons for children without access to pools.

“In May this year, four para swimmers graduated from our classes and have since begun competing in tournaments. With data, we can better understand which communities need help the most,” she said.

On youth empowerment, Hannah underlined the need to go beyond leadership programmes for the academically successful 10 per ent, and instead focus on the remaining 90 per cent who lack access to opportunities.

She said opening gymnasium facilities at Narcotics Addiction Rehabilitation Centres (Puspen) is among the MADANI Government’s efforts to help drug addicts adopt healthier habits and break the cycle of addiction.

“We first started with Puspen Dengkil, but Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has instructed us to expand the initiative to all 28 centres. We are working with gym operators to refurbish secondhand equipment for these centres.

“So, once they get used to a healthier lifestyle, we hope they can be transformed into productive citizens, which in turn will help reduce the government’s financial burden in prisons and rehabilitation centres,” she said, adding that it is crucial to include youths in policymaking. 

-- BERNAMA