LETTER | Snap polls rumour – why young people should care

LETTER | Politics is not merely about competing interests and the distribution of power and resources but also an art of government. 

This means it provides an arena and a process between legitimate organisations and individuals regardless of gender, age and social class, to discuss and make a well-informed resolution that affects society as a whole. 

Nonetheless, the term politics remains broad, biased and vague, mainly due to the perceptions and understanding of politics one person may have.

Politics is not a circus of clowns neither is it limited for the elites. I believe that the narrative of "dirty politics" can be challenged and that begins with the fresh and genuine mentality of young people who want progressive and functional government for their beloved nation. 

I think politics is the best platform for young people to take up the gauntlet by exercising their voting rights, joining party membership, or becoming a candidate. Gaining interest and curiosity in politics will not make a person a politician but will allow them to be aware of the country's current situation.

As the saying goes, youths influence the youth, and I think some problems have yet to be heard and practical ideas are not being implemented. Having more youths in our political scene will help develop comprehensive fiscal, educational, environmental, and welfare policy decisions tailored to the young generation. 

Our government has an astonishingly low number of youth representation with Muar MP Syed Saddiq Abdul Rahman and Batu MP P Prabakaran being the only two aged 27 and 24 respectively.

Young people, particularly young women, should utilise the political arena to voice out and exhibit their leadership qualities. This is because women are more emphatic, gentle, and have high emotional intelligence compared to men. 

These attributes make them great leaders as proven by Malaysian iron ladies such as former Bank Negara governor Zeti Abdul Aziz and former minister Rafidah Aziz, as well as New Zealand premier Jacinda Ardern.

In light of the snap election rumour, I believe this is the prime opportunity for young people to partake in politics and change the course of Malaysian history. The participation of young people in political parties will facilitate bridging the gap between two generations, the young and the old, to shape a new political landscape. 

The involvement of young people in politics is not restricted only to voting but to continue upholding the spirit of democratic values – justice, equality, and patriotism. 

Like the proverbial saying, “Rome wasn’t built in one day,” it takes patience, courage and determination to alter and form a healthier government for all of us. Do not give up.

Side note: If you are 21 years old and have not registered for voting, visit https://mysprdaftar.spr.gov.my/ to sign-up.

The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.