Exciting First Time
by Rosli Mansor
Larut: “This is the first time in my life I went out to vote, it’s an experience I will never forget” said Nur Fatin Najwa, 18, from Ulu Nor village.
Young voters who voted for the first time in the 15th General Election (GE-15), admitted that they were thrilled and excited to exercise their responsibilities for the first time today.
They need to make the right choice when going out to vote because the GE-15 results will determine the country’s stability in all aspects including the economy, politics and social concerns, as well as determine the future of the young generation.
For Mohd Firdaus Ramli 22, he used to only be a spectator to the campaign and voting situation, but this time he became one of the Malaysians to cast his vote.
He said, GE-15 is very different, as teenagers are now given a role as a pillar to jointly determine the direction and pattern of the country’s administration, and are no longer just observers.
GE-15 is a new experience for teenagers aged 18 years and above to really test their metal to carry out their responsibilities by choosing a credible candidate and a stable party even with just one vote.
“This time we are among the communities that are important to ensure a dynamic, harmonious and steady direction for the country. Thus we also evaluate all aspects of the candidate’s and party’s ability before making a decision,” he said.
He said he also wants to choose candidates and parties with excellent records that put the people ahead of personal interests.
According to him, guidance from community and family leaders as well as guidance on social media on how to vote will remove his hesitation to vote because what is important is that he does not make mistakes that could cause the vote to be spoiled.
He said, even though it was his first time, he would do his best to fulfil his responsibilities, especially in choosing a candidate who represents the people’s spirit and has an excellent record for the local community, the state and even the country.