PUTRAJAYA, MALAYSIA January 16, 2026 – The Ministry of Youth and Sports (KBS) today announced the continuation of the KBS International Youth Fund, or *International Youth Fund* (IYF@KBS), for 2026 as part of the MADANI Government’s ongoing commitment to internationalising Malaysian youth aged 18 to 30.
The initiative supports Malaysian youth participation in global platforms such as international meetings, forums, conferences and symposia related to youth development. According to the KBS media statement, such participation provides exposure to global best practices while enabling youth to engage directly in discussions on worldwide issues, build strategic networks and strengthen intercultural understanding.
In line with the Malaysian Youth Policy and the Madani Youth Development Model, the programme aims to empower Malaysian youth to collaborate with peers from diverse countries, contributing their voices to the formulation of policies, programmes and initiatives at global and regional levels.
The IYF@KBS fund is offered on a one-off basis to Malaysian citizens aged 18 to 30, with priority given to those active in registered associations, organisations or clubs. For 2026, each approved application can receive funding of up to RM20,000, covering programme participation fees, economy-class flight tickets, meal allowances, insurance, visa costs and accommodation based on specified rates.
Applications will open in four (4) series starting today (16 January 2026) for international programmes taking place between 1 March and 15 November 2026. All applications must be submitted online via the official KBS portal at www.kbs.gov.my/iyf, accompanied by the required supporting documents.
KBS expressed confidence that IYF@KBS 2026 will further strengthen the national youth development ecosystem, produce authoritative young leaders and contribute to building a more progressive, inclusive and internationally competitive Malaysia.
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