CHINESE political leaders from both sides of the political divide have lauded Dewan Negara President Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar’s proposal to have youth over the age of 18 appointed senators.

They said the proposal was a positive political development, which will see better representation from the young generation.

Petaling Jaya MP Lee Chean Chung told The Malaysian Insight that having young people as senators would contribute to better discussions on youth-related matters.

“I think it’s a good move as it will make young people’s voices heard better,” said the Pakatan Harapan MP.

He agreed with Wan Junaidi’s view that appointing someone over the age of 18 a member of the Dewan Negara would allow the government to understand youth issues better.

Currently, a person must be at least 30 years old to be eligible to be appointed a senator.

Balakong assemblyman Wayne Ong Chun Wei said adding a youthful flavour would allow for a little shake-up in the Senate.

He said 18-year-olds would definitely come from diverse backgrounds.

He said they might have different levels of education. Some might be from a sports background, or even athletes themselves, or could be from the entertainment industry.

“Coming from such diverse backgrounds, they therefore would have a deep understanding of issues related to their areas of interest and expertise,” he said.

“If their voice is heard in parliament, it could bring about better advancement for the young people.”

Ong, who is national secretary of DAP Socialist Youth (Dapsy) and Selangor Dapsy chief, brushed off concerns that 18-year-olds might not be mature enough to become senators.

“It’s just not fair to judge them by one standard,” he said.

Ong said 18-year-olds often surpassed adults in terms of creativity and ability.

“Moreover, we are not saying that all 70 senators will have to be aged 18. What we are saying is, having a diverse representation.”

Young and mature

MCA Youth national deputy chief Mike Chong Yew Chuan said young people are mature when they are properly educated.

“There are people who believe 16-year-olds can get married and have children, but then say 18-year-olds are not mature enough to be allowed to vote,” he said.

“Education (for the young) should include subjects on what a democratic system is all about. They should include why they need to vote, what the voting process is, how people become candidates and, if elected, their role as members of parliament.

“Their political thinking should be developed. If the authorities do not take these steps today, how can we expect our young people to become mature?”

Last month, Wan Junaidi said Malaysians as young as 18 should be given the chance to become senators since the voting age has been lowered from 21.

The former Santubong MP said he is looking to introduce a special provision under the Federal Constitution to facilitate this move.

Various reports have said he proposed article 45 of the Federal Constitution to be amended to appoint 18-year-olds as senators.

He said this would also help the government gain a better understanding of youth-related matters. – November 5, 2023.