Young Voters Call for Youthful Leaders to Drive Innovation and Progress

9 October 2025

KOTA KINABALU: A growing number of young voters are voicing their desire for leaders who understand their aspirations, challenges, and outlook on the future.

This generation, more informed and connected than ever, is calling for youthful leadership, one that reflects their energy, innovation, and commitment to progress.

They believe that younger leaders are better positioned to bring fresh ideas, bridge generational gaps, and drive policies that align with modern realities such as digital transformation, environmental sustainability, and job creation in the evolving economy.

Gary Steven

Gary Steven, 37, from Kg Tamparuli, who sells handicrafts and souvenirs at Tamparuli township, opines, “Young leaders, especially those with experience in leading the community, should be voted into office so they can serve the people more effectively. They are more energetic and able to respond swiftly to the community’s needs. We respect the elders who have served well in the past, as they have contributed greatly to development and initiated progress. But it’s time for younger leaders to step forward.”

Sianah Jonius

Sianah Jonius,40, from Kg Lungkidau Pagination Ranau, a fishmonger in Tamparuli shares, “I agree that young leaders should be given a chance to lead the community. I am sure that young voters want them to lead, as they can better understand the needs of the younger generation. As for us, in our village, we sincerely hope the government will repair the road. Most of us are farmers, and some have oil palm plantations. It is difficult to transport our produce out to sell with the poor road conditions.”

Ehim@ Ehima Guruk

Ehim@ Ehima Guruk, 63, from Kg Dopuh Jalan Ranau says, “Encouraging young people to take on leadership roles is positive, but they should also have sufficient experience to effectively serve their communities and manage their constituencies. I prefer leaders who are already experienced enough to lead and facilitate development. I still believe that Datuk Wilfred Madius Tangau is a good leader and should continue serving, despite his age. He is active, energetic, and consistently engages with the people whenever there are needs to be addressed.”

Lissa Simon

Lissa Simon, 25, from Kg Bayangan Keningau, says, “The presence of young leaders should not diminish the role of older leaders, but rather serve as a valuable succession. The experience of senior leaders is very important and offers a valuable learning opportunity for young leaders. For those who will lead us in the future, I hope they will focus more on youth development in rural areas, such as skills in tailoring, cake-making, various crafts, and entrepreneurship. This will help ensure that young people in rural communities have the skills to generate their own income.”

Paul Matthew

Paul Matthew, 60, a retiree, from Kg Inobong Penampang says,” I believe, young voters in Sabah prefer younger candidates in the 17th state election, valuing accountability, transparency, and fresh ideas. They focus on education, economic opportunities, and technology, believing younger candidates better understand their priorities. They also favour individual candidates over political parties, supporting energetic, modern leaders who resonate with today’s societal needs, rather than older candidates whose ideas may seem outdated.”

Youth used to be pegged at 40 years old, but have been reduced to 30 years of age.

Many eighteen-year-olds will be eligible to vote in the 2025 Sabah state election, following Malaysia’s reduction of the voting age to 18. This change enables a new generation of young people to participate in the electoral process for the first time.