Implement Undi18 in tandem with education on democratic practices, say youth NGOs

KUALA LUMPUR (Bernama): The implementation of Undi18 must be in line with education on the political system and democratic practices in the country, says a youth NGO leader.

Malaysian Youth Council president Jufitri Joha (pic) said even though the council is happy with the government’s commitment to implement Undi18, the younger generation must be educated on how to exercise their rights to vote.

“We welcome the implementation, but we must also remember this is not just about rights – it is also about responsibility.

“The younger generation must be educated on how to choose the right leaders who are ethical, and not merely follow friends and emotions,” he said when contacted.

According to Jufitri, the council on its part had taken the initiative to implement Sekolah Politik 2.0 which is a virtual effort to give youths exposure to the country’s political system.

“Response has been encouraging, proving that the younger generation are extremely interested in exercising their rights as voters,” he said.

He said the responsibility to disseminate information adequately to youths so they can make a wise choice in the voting booth falls on all quarters.

Jufitri said he was confident Undi18 will be implemented for the 15th General Election (GE15) based on the passion shown to transform Parliament, as mentioned by Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Seri Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar.

Peninsular Malay Students Association president Mohd Alif Anas Md Noor said nationalism and education on the political system should be included in the school syllabus and introduced to students as early as age 16.

He said this was aimed at giving the younger generation an understanding and awareness of their roles in the practice of democracy in the country.

“Educators must be neutral and not take sides when imparting education as a whole. It must be part of the syllabus to prevent teachers and students from being manipulated by anyone,” he said.

Mohd Alif Anas also suggested that the eligible age to qualify as a general election candidate must be set at 18 in line with the implementation of Undi18.

He said if all parties like the Election Commission (EC) and legal bodies can work together and find common ground, the association was confident that Undi18 can be implemented in time for GE15.

At the same time, Mohd Alif Anas said, EC should find the best mechanism to conduct a general election in the face of Covid-19.

“We understand political stability is key to an efficient government. Therefore, we must be aware that the election must be held when the time comes,” he added. – Bernama