Malaysia state polls: Political parties target youth vote to win in Terengganu

KUALA TERENGGANU: The youth vote will be crucial when Terengganu residents head to the polls on Saturday (Aug 12).

More than half of the state’s electorate are under the age of 40 and this dynamic youth demographic has emerged as a pivotal focus for political parties. They feature prominently in election manifestos and campaign strategies.

This comes as Terengganu is set to see a tough fight at the upcoming election, with the unity government alliance and Perikatan Nasional (PN) both expressing confidence in winning the eastern state.

But it remains to be seen whether there will be a reaffirmation of support for the Islamic party Parti Islam Se-Malaysia (PAS) and PN’s "green wave" narrative, or if the United Malays National Organisation (UMNO) and the Pakatan Harapan (PH)-led unity government will be given a chance.

POWER OF THE YOUTH

Observers said all eyes remain fixed on the power of the youth, whose choices will undoubtedly shape the future of Terengganu.

Candidates understand their importance and have come up with various plans and promises focusing on the needs of young people in their manifestos.

PAS, for instance, has solidified its commitment to the younger generation, by pledging to set up a US$1.1 million youth entrepreneurship fund and offer interest-free loans to buy motorcycles.

“We consistently engage with the youth because we recognise, especially in the electoral context, they are the kingmakers,” said PAS election director Ariffin Deraman. 

“Today’s youth is the future generation, a segment of utmost importance. We need to give them a big responsibility.”

Meanwhile, the unity government alliance comprising Barisan Nasional and PH is also actively courting young voters in the state.

The coalition hopes to reignite support by establishing a youth welfare foundation, while providing vocational training and cash aid to students.

MORE OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE YOUNG 

Youth-based party Malaysian United Democratic Alliance (MUDA) is also entering the political race. 

MUDA candidate for the Bandar state seat Luqman Long is pushing for more and better-paying job opportunities for the young people of Terengganu.

“We want to reduce brain drain from Terengganu,” said the 29-year-old. 

“There must be a space to attract more young people to come back to Terengganu, to come and serve the place they are born and raised in.”

Many young people across the state are hoping to improve their lives and forge a brighter future. 

Among them is 26-year-old Asyraf Hadi, who runs a stall selling woven bags and other handicrafts at a local market in Kuala Terengganu. 

He started his own business just two years ago when job opportunities were scarce due to the economic strains of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

“We need more opportunities for young people like us to explore entrepreneurship for better income,” said Mr Asyraf, a stallholder at Pasar Payang. 

“Most jobs in Terengganu favour those with experience or higher education, leaving behind those without formal education. We need more doors to open, such as grants to set up shops or programmes to educate the youth about the world of business.”