RM12.5 mln to TEGAS for youth development

SARAWAK has allocated RM12.5 million to Tabung Ekonomi Gagasan Anak Sarawak (TEGAS) for 2027 to develop digital talent, accelerate entrepreneurship and strengthen the state’s position as a hub for innovation and digital enterprise.

Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said TEGAS would continue to empower young Sarawakians to transform their talents, ideas and innovations into sustainable digital businesses.

“TEGAS will continue to empower Sarawak’s youth to turn talent, ideas, and innovation into sustainable digital businesses through its Digital Village, Innovation Hubs and entrepreneurship programmes, complemented by strategic industry partnerships that provide skills, funding and global exposure,” he said when tabling the Supply (2027) Bill, 2026, at the State Legislative Assembly sitting here today (Oct 12).

Abang Johari said TEGAS Lodge Sarawak would further strengthen the ecosystem by providing a dynamic space for young people to live, work, learn and innovate while connecting them with global digital communities.

The state is also investing in international youth exposure through the 2027 Port of Call for the Ship for Southeast Asian and Japanese Youth Programme (SSEAYP), with RM3 million allocated next year.

“SSEAYP is one of the region’s longest-running youth exchange programmes, bringing together young people from Japan and ASEAN member countries to foster friendship, cultural exchange, and leadership,” he said.

At the national level, Sarawak will host the Sarawak–Johor–Sabah–Melaka Youth Integration Programme, with RM250,000 allocated in 2027 to strengthen national integration.

Another RM1 million will support flagship initiatives such as Minggu Belia Sarawak, the Rainforest Youth Summit and Imarah Belia Ramadan, providing platforms for young people to develop their leadership, creativity, technological skills and wellbeing.

To ensure future youth policies are guided by evidence, the Sarawak Youth Index Study is expected to be completed next year, with RM1 million allocated for the purpose.

The study will help identify the circumstances and needs of young people, providing a basis for more targeted policies, programmes and investments to keep youth development relevant and future-ready.

Meanwhile, RM500,000 will be channeled to the Sarawak Youth Creative Industry Fund to help young talents and creative practitioners turn their ideas, skills and creativity into business opportunities.

The initiatives fall under the state’s Strategic Thrust Seven, which focuses on enhancing culture, sports and youth development, particularly through youth technopreneurship and creative incubation.