THE Undi18 movement has urged above-18s youth to exercise their democratic responsibility and vote in the upcoming state elections in Johor.

It also told political parties participating in the polls to field younger candidates.

“This will be a historical moment as it marks the first time youth aged 18, 19 and 20 will be allowed to participate in polls.

“Political parties should put up youth candidates, who can be involved in state development and policy-making processes. This is in light of the fact that youth will be the highest percentage of voter demographics in the coming polls.”

Sultan of Johor Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar has consented to dissolve the state assembly, following a meeting with Menteri Besar Hasni Mohammad at Istana Bukit Serene on Saturday.

The Johor elections are the first in which those aged 18, 19 and 20 will be eligible to vote, per the Election Commission’s latest voter roll as gazetted on January 14.

The Undi18 implementation will add almost 750,000 new voters in Johor, of which 175,000 are aged below 21. This is a 30% hike in the overall number of voters in Johor.

The youth-centric movement said it will launch the #UndiJohor initiative as a platform to promote youth participation in polls.

“Be it directly or indirectly, for the purpose of creating a new trend in our vibrant democratic tradition.

“Undi18 will be the new dynamic within our nation’s democratic system due to the increased participation and, most importantly, the crucial litmus test for youth sentiment in the upcoming general election.” – January 24, 2022.