UNDI18
KUCHING: The establishment of new wings targeting the younger generation is an acknowledgment that youth will have a greater role to play in politics from now on, said Datuk Jonathan Chai Voon Tok.
The Associated Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Sarawak (ACCCIS) secretary-general said this when commenting on Sarawak United People’s Party’s (SUPP) plan to amend its constitution to set up new wings to cater for the Undi18 generation.
“The new platform will provide opportunities for young people to get involved politically and help them to attain political maturity, which is a prerequisite for making any meaningful contribution in the democratic process,” Chai said.
He believed that political parties needed to make the necessary changes and adjustments to attract young voters in order to stay relevant and competitive in the political arena following the Undi18 constitutional amendments.
“Sensing the importance of getting the support of this new group of voters, I would not be surprised that most political parties would soon set up new wings as a channel to attract and reach out to the youngsters,” he said.
Chai said the younger generation must keep up with political developments in the country to enable themselves to make a sensible choice in the election.
“Even though some might not be as enthusiastic or keen about politics, I think they should get involved or at least keep themselves informed of political developments because their choice of leadership will affect their future and determine the direction and future of this country,” he said.
On Wednesday, SUPP secretary-general Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew said a new SUPP Youth Wing and a Puteri Wing would allow Sarawakian youths aged 18 to 28 years to engage in the political arena and gain exposure to meaningful participation in decision-making.
Earlier, Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) president Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg had also revealed that PBB would establish a new wing for members aged 18 to 28 years.
This would be done after an amendment to PBB’s constitution is passed during the party’s upcoming triennial general meeting in June.
