Kuala Lumpur, 19 September 2018 –The Institute for Democracy and Economic Affairs (IDEAS) applauds the Cabinet’s decision today to lower the voting age from 21 to 18 years old. This was one of the promises that Pakatan Harapan (PH) made in their manifesto and it is encouraging that they have committed to it sooner rather than later.

To properly implement the change, a constitutional amendment, requiring the support of two-thirds of the Dewan Rakyat, is required. Democracy and Governance Coordinator Aira Azhari comments “I am very pleased that the Cabinet has exhibited strong political will in pushing for lowering the voting age. Some argue that this change is long overdue, as most other democracies, including our neighbours Indonesia, has allowed 18-year olds to vote for the longest time. This is a significant step in the effort to empower our youths to be more involved in our democracy, something that PH has been advocating for all this while. I hope that this step will also mean that democratic space in institutions of higher learning will also be opened up, and students will be further encouraged to speak up and get involved in politics and their communities.”

Regarding the constitutional amendment, Aira adds “I hope to see healthy bipartisan support for this decision, as a two-thirds majority will require MPs from both sides of the House to back it. I also wish YB Syed Saddiq all the best in his efforts to reach out to the youth wings of all political parties. I am certain these youth wings will be in full support of this positive decision.”