Arya News - Ahead of the Melaka state polls, young voters and Gen Z constituents are voicing practical expectations—ranging from job opportunities and youth funding to public transport relief—as they demand responsive leadership from candidates vying for their support.
MELAKA – They may differ in their political preferences. But young voters here, specifically Gen Z, share a common expectation.
They want elected representatives who listen to their concerns and deliver results.
From youth development and job opportunities to education assistance and traffic congestion, these are among the issues they hope the next state government will address.
Mohamad Fazrin Moktar, 26, from Bandar Hilir, said greater financial support is needed to help youth bodies organise community activities.
Although generally satisfied with the performance of the previous elected representative, he said securing funding for youth programmes remains a challenge.
“It’s not that they don’t help us but the assistance is limited.
“We have youth organisations that want to organise programmes but we face difficulties getting sufficient funding.”
Mohamad Fazrin said youth activities, including sports, community programmes and cultural celebrations, could benefit from more consistent financial support.
He also hoped the next state government would pay greater attention to young families struggling with financial pressures.
“Many Gen Z are already married and facing financial difficulties with the current economic situation.
“We hope programmes that allow them to do business and assist other groups can continue through government initiatives.”
For first-time voter Joshua Gomes, 24, traffic congestion is among the issues he hopes the next elected representative will address.
The restaurant worker said travelling through Bandar Hilir could be frustrating, particularly during peak hours.
“ ly, it takes about half an hour but when there is a traffic jam, it can take one and a half hours,” he said.
Joshua, who admitted feeling nervous about voting for the first time, said he would consider the candidate rather than the political party.
Despite being busy with Deepavali preparations, Harinisha Selvakumar, 19, from Alor Gajah, said she is excited about casting her ballot for the first time.
The graphic design diploma student described voting as an important responsibility.
“We hope elected representatives would give greater attention to students, particularly those who need to travel long distance to pursue their education,” she said.
Harinisha also called for assistance with educational materials, including books and other learning necessities.
Asked whether political parties or individual candidates would influence her vote, she said both matter although family preferences would also play a role.
“I hope the candidate I’m voting for is ready to listen to all the pressing problems faced by the people,” she added.
Another young voter, Muhammad Aqail Ilham Mohd Irwan, 18, said he had witnessed positive changes and hoped development would continue after the election.
Muhammad Aqail, who helps his mother sell cosmetics at an uptown market during weekends, hoped the next elected representative would build on the progress made while creating more opportunities for young people.
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