YTAR perkukuh sokongan pelajar berpendapatan rendah, komuniti kurang peluang

The Ministry of Unity's Aaron Ago Dagang has stated that the Tunku Abdul Rahman Foundation (YTAR) will strengthen support for students from low-income families and disadvantaged communities, according to wire material. This includes expanding initiatives to identify talent nationwide, enhancing leadership development, mentorship, and alumni networks.

Aaron emphasized, "Our challenge today is not merely bringing more young people to university, but ensuring who they are, where they come from, and their family's economic standing does not determine how far they can go." He highlighted during the 60th Anniversary Celebration Committee meeting at the Sultan Abdul Samad Building that many low-income families, rural communities, and specific ethnic groups still face financial constraints, limited access to information, support networks, and personal development opportunities.

YTAR's role now extends beyond providing scholarships to identifying potential, opening access, and nurturing the capabilities of disadvantaged youth. The foundation has already supported over 12,000 young people with RM96.6 million in investments, including scholarships, financial aid, and leadership programs, transcending races and religions with the backing of more than 300 strategic partners and benefactors.

YTAR has also awarded two early scholarship recipients, Zakaria Ali and Ch’ng Kim See, for their contributions to arts, culture, and library science across various ethnicities and religions. The ceremony also featured a presentation of Tunku Scholars' presentations on their efforts to build Malaysia. Aaron announced that the nomination for the 2026 Tunku Award Badges will open on August 31 to September 30, 2026, with self-nominations introduced for the first time for graduates of public and private universities nationwide.