SYED Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman aims to end the old political narrative by uniting youth under one party.

Speaking at a forum organised by Sinar Harian, the 27-year-old Muar MP said it is high time for youth to move away from “old politics” and offer new policies that will not only benefit their generation, but also older Malaysians.

“In Malaysia, there is a need for a young leader and fresh ideas to go against ‛politik lapuk’ (old politics).

“This is not about age per se. If you look at the US, Bernie Sanders, who was eyeing the presidency, is an old politician, but the majority of his supporters comprise youth.

“We need not only fresh ideas and policies, but a leader who can shape a new political landscape for a better Malaysia, not just for youth, but for all segments of life, regardless of background.”

He said his new youth party will challenge the tycoons funding the country’s political outfits.

“We need to put a stop to endless political funding. This is important so that tycoons no longer control parties.

“We need to empower crowdfunding, but there must be a limit, for example, not exceeding RM50,000.

“There is still no Political Funding Act, which I fought for just before Pakatan Harapan collapsed.”

Bukit Melawati assemblyman Juwairiya Zulkifli and Syahir Sulaiman, the political secretary to PAS president Abdul Hadi Awang, were the panellists discussing with Syed Saddiq, who became the country’s youngest minister when he was appointed to the PH cabinet in 2018.

Syed Saddiq said he wants to prove the benefits of multi-ethnic participation in politics.

“Having multiple cultures and religions is a strength, not a weakness.”

Asked about his new party’s image, he said it will prioritise sharp minds and critical thinking.

Syahir said Syed Saddiq’s plan to unite youth should not be seen as trivial, and called on all parties to move in the same direction.

“I agree with the narrative. To me, it is bold and radical. It is very appealing to the younger generation.

“This should be a wake-up call to the older politicians. We should embrace diversity.”

Juwairiya said her party, PKR, has given youth the opportunity to shine in politics.

“Our menteri besar is young, and was even younger when he was given the chance to contest in the elections.

“Although I was not named in the elections, the party gave me the opportunity to serve the people of Bukit Melawati, and Malaysian youth gave me the chance to prove that a young politician can be trusted to lead.

“In PKR, many young leaders were accepted into the central committee leadership. We have proven that.”

The 33-year-old said she was thrilled upon learning about Syed Saddiq’s proposed party.

“It is a radical move, I must say, and I look forward to this new party.”

Syed Saddiq previously said an announcement on the outfit will be made “very soon”, and that the party will not side with either PH or Perikatan Nasional. – September 1, 2020.