Malaysia's Economy Ministry announced it is examining the country's preparedness for an ageing population as part of planning for Budget 2027. Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir highlighted the dual focus on managing the elderly population and preparing younger Malaysians for future responsibilities and well-being. "The younger generation needs to shoulder greater responsibility for the sustainability of the economy and the continuity of the country's growth (as we transition to an ageing nation)," he said during the Junior Innovathon officiating event on September 4, 2026 [1, 2, 3, 4].
The ministry aims to broaden youth access to specialised economic opportunities previously less accessible, including segments like the stock market and ownership sectors. "We want to create opportunities for young people to explore one or two segments previously not open to them, particularly in terms of the stock market and ownership," Nasrullah said [1].
Strengthening STEM education through grassroots talent development is a priority to equip young people for participation in high-growth, high-value (HGHV) industries. "We are giving priority to enabling these talents by equipping them with the necessary skills to become more directly involved in high-growth, high-value (HGHV) industries," Nasrullah added [2].
Funding for research and invention is also being expanded to support both academic purposes and commercialisation efforts. "At the same time, we are strengthening funding for research and invention, not only for academic purposes, but also for commercialisation," the minister said [2].
The Youth empowerment efforts link closely to the Junior Innovathon Season Two 2026 TV programme produced by RTM. The show features the top 50 teams selected from 2,092 entries across Malaysia. It will begin airing on September 20, 2026, and crown a champion on November 1, 2026 [1, 2, 3, 4].
Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir emphasized the comprehensive approach: "Therefore, to delve into this issue, the Economy Ministry is examining the structure of the country's preparedness for an ageing population, not only focusing on managing an elderly population, but also on preparing the younger generation for their future well-being" [1].
Junior Innovathon Season Two will continue as a platform to showcase youth talents aligned with the ministry's goals. The programme launch on September 20 marks the next key event in this effort [1, 2, 3, 4].
