Ilham Seni Diraja Programme A Platform For B40 Youth Talent Development - Queen

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 29 (Bernama) -- Her Majesty Raja Zarith Sofiah, Queen of Malaysia, expressed hope that the Ilham Seni Diraja programme will serve as an important platform for B40 youth to develop their talents and potential in the fields of arts and culture.

The Queen said the initiative provides young people with the space to explore productive interests and hobbies, particularly for those who may not excel academically but have a strong inclination towards the arts.

“I believe many have hidden talents but lack the opportunity to showcase them. By meeting and being mentored by experienced artists through this programme, young people are expected to discover positive pursuits to focus on constructively, while drawing inspiration from the achievements they can attain in the future.

“The younger generation must also inherit and continue our artistic traditions, whether in music, dance, or other branches of the arts. For some, the opportunity to meet practitioners may be limited, making the Ilham Seni Diraja programme a vital channel for exposure,” she said when launching the programme here today.

Also present were the Raja Di Hilir of Perak, Raja Iskandar Dzurkarnain Idris Shah, and Tunku Tun Aminah Sultan Ibrahim.

Prime Minister’s wife Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail and Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek also attended the event.

Her Majesty expressed hope that the programme will foster unity, cultivate positive personalities among young people, and open better future pathways for marginalised B40 youth.

Raja Zarith Sofiah also highlighted concerns over mental health issues among B40 youth, who are more vulnerable due to limited access to appropriate support and assistance.

“According to Ministry of Health statistics, 163,709 individuals have received online mental health support from 2022 to the end of last year, reflecting increased awareness as well as the need for targeted attention by the authorities.

“The long-term impact of poor mental health among children and adolescents is concerning, as it affects their well-being and the country’s future. Current pressures, including unhealthy use of social media, can expose young people to negative influences if not properly managed,” she said.

-- BERNAMA