Belanjawan 2027: Belia mahu bantuan tunai langsung, kata exco Pemuda PKR

Pemuda PKR exco Noor Amelia Zainabila Zaiffri has stated that young Malaysians want the government to provide direct cash assistance in the 2027 budget. Noor Amelia claims this perspective stems from two public dialogues with the group during the past year. In a recent episode of the "Kena Soal" podcast series, she said, "Ultimately, what they need is cash assistance.

Give them a book voucher or a card, but cash assistance remains an option." According to Noor Amelia, a similar perception also exists regarding housing, where government incentives are seen merely as easing the financial burden of young first-time homebuyers, rather than providing direct assistance. She cites the exemption of full home loan interest for first-time homebuyers up to RM500,000 as an example.

Meanwhile, Puteri Umno member Shamellya Norazizi welcomes financial assistance for young homebuyers but urges them to consider how long they will rely on such initiatives. Shamellya, a former Puteri Umno spokesperson, also expresses concern about the tendency of young people to fall into debt, particularly through buy-now-pay-later schemes.

Young people are not prioritizing home ownership anymore, with some opting for renting due to factors like work mobility or not being ready for a family, she said. High down payment requirements are another barrier, given that a few young people cannot afford the initial costs of buying a home and committing to loans for up to 35 years.

However, Noor Amelia stresses that this does not mean the government should allow young people to continue renting indefinitely, referring to home ownership, rent-to-own schemes, and credit guarantees as steps to help them own a home. Meanwhile, Shamellya points out the influence of social media and the tendency to compare oneself with peers in driving pressure among young people to chase housing and lifestyles beyond their means.

Therefore, she urges them to consider homeownership as a starting point and prioritize savings over excessive debt burdens simply to keep up with others.