KUALA LUMPUR: IT was hot and humid in the capital here yesterday and the evening threatened rain in sheets, but nothing stopped energetic youth from flocking to the 1Malaysia for Youth (im4u) carnival at the KLCC Park.

The one-day carnival, which started at 11am, saw more than 50,000 youth participating in various activities.

Youth leader Michael Teoh, 25, said the programme opened up opportunities for youth to engage in volunteer works.

"Youth have always complained that there is no proper channel to do such works.

"Today's event has shown the government's commitment to help them move up to a better position in the nation's development."

Brothers Sandesh, 16, and Shubdesh Hamir, 13, had initially planned to watch a movie but later decided to visit the carnival after they found out about the discounted Manchester City versus Malaysia football match tickets.

"I'm not really a fan of Man City, but if we are only paying RM10 to watch this game, why not?" said Sandesh.

Ticketpro Malaysia Sdn Bhd operations executive Alvin Khong said the company, which is the official ticket sales agency, had set up two booths yesterday.

He said the prime minister had earlier announced via Twitter that 15,000 tickets were available for youth yesterday.

"Since morning, our booths have been busy. All the proceeds from ticket sales will go to charity."

The football match between Manchester City and Malaysia will be held at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium on July 30.

Exhibitor Rock Corps Malaysia took part to attract more youth to register at their new volunteer reward concert programme.

Representative Glenson Teo said the programme was to attract youth to participate in charity works as return volunteers.

"It's a five-year plan. We will organise an international concert annually with local and international artistes.

"Volunteers have to give four hours in volunteer work at orphanages, old folks homes or even public parks."