KUCHING: A low turnout is expected among voters aged 18 to 21 during the upcoming Jepak state by-election, said political analyst Dr Lee Kuok Tiung.
He said this is because the voters referred to as Undi-18 voters are in the midst of studying at their respective learning institutions.
“With the day of voting falling on Nov 4, most of the Undi-18 voters probably would not be able to come and vote and I expect that their numbers will be low,” he told New Sarawak Tribune on Sunday.
However, Dr Lee said this will not present a problem to Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) which is out to retain the seat as Jepak is a GPS stronghold.
Meanwhile, political analyst Professor Dr. Novel Lyndon said Undi-18 voters will not affect the voting pattern in the by-election.
“This is because what is being talked about is more about local issues. The main question is whether current issues or national issues have an impact on Undi-18 voters in Jepak constituency?
“To me, it will have less impact. In addition, most of them may not return to vote because some are studying or working outside of Jepak or outside of Sarawak.
“The sentiment that this seat is a safe seat and a stronghold of GPS is the reason why they may not return to vote,” he added.
He also said Undi-18 voters who do come and vote will be influenced by their parents and community leaders.
“The sentiment of Sarawak for Sarawakians and Sarawak First will also make Undi-18 voters choose Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB)-GPS,” he said.
