THE state remains committed to youth development through continuous programmes, skills training and community engagement, says state Youth, Sports and Health Committee chairman Daniel Gooi (PH–Padang Lalang).
Gooi said the state continues to strengthen the youth ecosystem by supporting skills development, entrepreneurship and digital participation.
“Our young people are not only innovators but also strategic partners in shaping public policy,” he said during his winding-up speech at the State Legislative Assembly.
He noted that the Jelajah Belia series continues to draw strong participation, with 2,487 youths taking part in 10 sessions this year.
“These sessions allow us to hear directly from youths, especially in rural areas, and ensure their views are reflected in state initiatives,” he added.
Gooi highlighted that federal initiatives such as the RM1,000 job mobility incentive and i-Saraan Plus had benefited youths entering the workforce and gig economy, along with TVET and other entrepreneurship schemes. Penang youths, he added, were also benefiting from federal microfinancing, including BSN’s youth microfund and SME Corp’s TUBE allocations.
Gooi added that 8,367 youths registered as Penang Youth Volunteers under the Penang2030 agenda.
“The Rakan Muda and state youth funds channelled RM99,800 to 47 youth groups this year,” he said, adding that RM1.35mil approved through the State Youth Committee supported 169 programmes involving 22,845 participants.
“Although the national definition changes next year, we will continue supporting youths between 30 and 35,” he stressed.
On the sports front, Gooi highlighted that preparations for SUKMA 2026 are being conducted through scientific and data-based approaches.
“We do not send athletes just to participate. We send them to win with dignity,” he emphasised.
Athlete recovery, sleep cycles, nutrition and mental wellness are being monitored closely by sports scientists and medical teams, he added.
Gooi also highlighted that Penang will host snooker and billiards for the 2027 SEA Games, with RM15 million allocated for preparations. Discussions are ongoing for the state to host additional sports, including sepak takraw, judo, table tennis and boxing.
“Our preparations are being carried out carefully to ensure Penang is fully ready by 2027,” he added.
He noted that RM1.2 million under the Community Sports Fund has supported programmes involving 22,858 participants this year.
Turning to Penang FC, Gooi acknowledged that the team faced challenges but noted that efforts are underway to strengthen performance.
“We recognise the current challenges, but we are taking steps to improve performance,” he pointed out.
He added that any suggestion to dissolve Penang FC must consider potential fines and long-term implications.
“Penang FC is not just a cost. It is a long-term investment in unity, talent development and the state’s sports ecosystem,” he added.
On health issues, Gooi highlighted that overcrowding in public hospitals is a nationwide challenge requiring coordinated solutions.
He noted that measures such as faster patient discharge, step-down care and placing emergency specialists in district hospitals are being implemented.
He added that MySejahtera appointment systems and electronic medical records have helped reduce congestion at clinics.
He said that Klinik Kesihatan Balik Pulau will receive RM2mil in upgrades between 2026 and 2027.
Gooi noted that 20,139 women have been screened under the state women’s health status form this year.
Gooi thanked the Air Itam assemblyman Joseph Ng for raising mental health concerns and highlighted that the Penang Mental Health Committee has been formed to coordinate responses.
Story by Edmund Lee