Youths need to play a part in govt

Registering to vote is one way

Of the over 16 million Malaysians who are eligible to vote, it is thus shocking and disappointing to note that almost a quarter of them, 23% or 3.7 million, have yet to register themselves as voters.

Voting is the civic duty of a country’s citizens, and everyone should play a role in shaping Malaysia’s future, especially the youths. Youths are a country’s future, and as such it is important for them to be balloters as they are the ones who will be voting in the government of their choice - a government which would continue to look after the public’s interests and welfare while pushing Malaysia forward to become a high income nation.

The spirit of democracy in Malaysia is also very much alive, and to ignore such a blessing is sheer folly, as even former dictatorial countries like Myanmar have taken steps to become more democratic. Therefore I urge all Malaysians, especially the youths, to make full use of our democratic process.

In the Middle East, we have seen that it was the youths who played a crucial role in reshaping the country. However we do not condone such street demonstrations as we have the ballot box to express our dissatisfaction or gratification to the government.

As a great American author Louise L’Amour once wrote: “To make democracy work, we must be a nation of participants, not simply observers. One who does not vote has no right to complain.”

Creating Awareness Helps

However, registering oneself is not simply enough. Everyone should also do their part to encourage their friends and family members who are eligible to vote but have yet to register to do so. While previously one may complain that it was cumbersome to do so, there is no such excuse now as the registration process is simple and easy and is easily available at any post office in Malaysia.

It is important to create awareness on the importance of voting, and steps have been taken by various quarters to do so. I myself have taken part in a music video by Pete Teo entitled ‘Undilah’, which is meant to create awareness on the importance of voting.

Finally, I also congratulate all who have taken the initiative to register themselves. However, I urge them to check their voting status at the EC’s website to ensure that their details are correct so as to avoid any accusations of misconduct by the EC during the next General Elections.

Datuk Dr Ir Wee Ka Siong
MCA Youth National Chairman
Deputy Minister of Education