SANDAKAN: Young first-time voters in Sabah are ready to cast their ballots and prove they are far from politically naïve.
These 19-year-olds say they are aware of current issues, actively discuss politics among friends, and are preparing to make informed decisions in the upcoming state election.
“We do talk about politics at school – during History, in General Studies, even among friends,” said Azzarinie Wati Abdullah, 19.
“People assume we don’t care, but the truth is we’ve grown up with access to information. We know what’s happening.”
She was among dozens of students who took part in the recent Malaysia Madani @ Kelab Malaysiaku programme held at SMK Elopura Bestari.
The programme was a mock election and civic education session jointly organised by the Sandakan Information Department and the Election Commission (EC), with support from the district education office.
Azzarinie added that the perception of youth being indifferent is outdated.
“When the voting age was lowered to 18, the number of registered voters went up.
"That shows young people do want to be involved. We care about our future, and voting is part of that.”
The event on Tuesday (May 27) gave students a hands-on look at the voting process, from registration to casting ballots and vote counting.
Participant Nabilah Soh said the simulation helped ease her anxiety about voting for the first time.
“I was always afraid I might mess up during the real thing,” she said. “But now I understand the steps better, and I feel more confident.”
She said the experience also made her realise the importance of being an informed voter.
“It’s not just about listening to manifestos. We need to look at the candidates themselves. Anyone can make promises, but we have to ask if they can deliver.”
Nabilah said she was especially excited to vote after seeing how active people were during the last election.
“I remember watching people post about voting on social media. I saw my parents vote. Now I know I have the same right, and I feel excited, like I finally have a say in where the state is headed. I’m definitely going to learn everything I need to make the right decision," she added.
Another participant, Arifrizan Syah Mukammad, said students in Form Six have already been exposed to topics related to elections through General Studies and school lessons.
“The simulation helped reinforce what we’ve learned," he said. “We were taught how both general and state elections work, so we understand the difference and what to expect."
Originally from Semporna, Arifrizan plans to return to vote in Selabayan. While he acknowledged that not all young people are equally interested, he believes many are serious about making an informed choice.
“Our teachers reminded us that we’re choosing our representatives, not just picking a party,” he said. “So we should vote with a clear mind and a sense of responsibility.”
COMP
SABAH & SARAWAK / POLITICS
