AS most other 22-year-olds worry about university examinations or their social media accounts, come July 16, P. Prabakaran will find himself officially the youngest-ever Malaysian MP to be sworn in.

It is a prospect that he is both nervous and excited about.

“I’m thinking about the chair, and where my place is going to be,” the second-year law student told The Malaysian Insight in a recent interview.

“And also, the swearing in. It’s a big thing for a 22-year-old boy.”

Prabakaran made history when he won the Batu seat in the 14th general election. He was backed by PKR vice-president Chua Tian Chang, but has chosen to remain as an independent even after Pakatan Harapan’s historic May 9 victory.

Life has since been hectic for Prabakaran, who juggles his studies and the seemingly unending expectations heaped on an MP.

“I have been busy resolving people’s problems, not only those from Batu, but also from different places.”

Issues in the many low-cost housing units in his constituency range from lift problems and cleanliness to safety and drainage problems.

“For now, I’m trying to settle this huge problem in my constituency, which is drainage.

“Water flow is poor, and when it rains, it causes floods. So, I’m raising this issue to DBKL (Kuala Lumpur City Hall), and I will be having a meeting with DBKL soon.”

Prabakaran is also looking at development in his constituency, and working with civil society organisations to provide educational opportunities to the urban poor.

He admitted that he has a lot to learn, but said he loves his new role, even if it means he has no time left for the leisurely activities that most of his peers enjoy.

“For now, I am a full-time MP. I haven’t really thought about my personal time because I enjoy doing this.

“So, I feel this coincides with my personal life. Meeting people, getting to know them and listening to the issues they have in Batu.”

The youngest in a family of four, Prabakaran said his love for the country had led him to run as an independent in GE14.

His primary motivation is to be an example to other youth.

“I hope all the youth get motivated and have an interest in serving this country.

“Patriotism is very important because if we love the country, we tend to do something for the development of the nation.”

He is happy to note that his inexperience and young age have not impeded him from fulfilling his duties, adding that his constituents, as well as the authorities, have been welcoming and helpful.

“They respect me as an MP and do not see my age as a factor, for which I feel very happy, because age is not a barrier for me.” – July 8, 2018.