JOHOR BARU: Despite looking forward to making their voices heard in the upcoming state polls, many young voters are finding it hard to grasp the local political landscape with parties forming and breaking alliances back and forth.
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia student Lee Jing Yi said although she would be voting for the second time, she still feels as though she does not know enough about local politics.
“I did not do much research when I voted for the first time during the 15th General Election.
“This time, I want to make a more informed decision.
“That is why I am now paying closer attention to current affairs and understanding the policies proposed by the contesting parties,” she said in an interview.
Lee, 22, a voter in the Skudai state seat, said she has been keeping abreast with the latest developments about the election through the news and social media platforms.
Another Skudai voter from the same university, S. Shevinha, 21, said although she was familiar with several political parties, she plans to research their policies further before casting her vote.
“I think we should also play a part in choosing our leaders and the government.
“So I plan to do my own research and read more about the political parties on their social media platforms,” she said.
The chemical engineering student urged all voters, especially young people to cast their votes independently and not based on the influence of family and friends.
Another first-time voter Universiti Teknologi Mara student Muhammad Norman Hakim Zaini, 21, said he has always been interested in politics.
“I look forward to the polling day because my mother is involved in politics but I want to vote based on my own research.
“Every voter should make their own decision after understanding the issues and comparing what the other parties have to offer,” said the Kukup state seat voter.
Political analyst Assoc Prof Dr Mazlan Ali said political parties would need to go back to basics and approach young people through traditional methods, including meeting them face to face.
“People no longer believe everything they see and read on social media, especially with the growing use of artificial intelligence.
“They need to go back to the ground and meet voters through youth programmes or traditional door-to-door visits.
“Another way that may appeal to young voters is podcasts as the language and discussions are often presented in a more laid-back manner that is easier to digest,” he said.
Prof Mazlan also noted that today’s voters, especially young ones, are more interested in the performance of political parties.
“Perhaps, first-time voters who are still in school and living with their families are more likely to be influenced by their parents’ choices.
“However, those in universities are more likely to vote based on their personal observations, including the performance of the parties and their friends,” he said.
On June 1, Mentri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi announced the dissolution of the Johor state assembly, paving the way for a state election.
Johor last held a state election on March 12, 2022, in which Barisan Nasional secured a two-thirds majority after winning 40 of the 56 seats.
Pakatan Harapan won 12 while Perikatan Nasional took three, and Muda one.
