Amira Aisya tells Malaysian youths that 'protesting is a legacy, not a crime'

SHAH ALAM – Acting Malaysian United Democratic Alliance (Muda) President and Puteri Wangsa assemblyman Amira Aisya Abdul Aziz has a powerful message for Malaysia’s youth: protesting is not a crime - it is a legacy.

In an exclusive interview with Sinar Daily on Top News Live podcast, she urged young Malaysians not to back down in the face of criticism or intimidation when standing up for justice, democracy and accountability.

"The movement towards independence in Malaysia was through street protest.

“Without the courage of those who marched and spoke out before us, we wouldn’t have the freedoms we enjoy today," she said.

“Don’t Let Them Tell You It’s Wrong”

Amira was addressing the backlash often faced by young protesters in Malaysia, particularly students who take to the streets to voice dissatisfaction with government policies, corruption or inequality.

“People say protest is rude. That it doesn’t bring any real results. But without these so-called ‘rude’ actions, Malaysia wouldn’t even be a free nation today.

“What the youth are doing is not wrong. It is their constitutional right to express their discontent peacefully," she said. Amira also had a pointed message for critics: you can disagree with protesters but do it with respect.

“You can disagree. That is your right. But be mindful and respectful when you do. Understand that these young people are standing up for something bigger than themselves and that takes courage," she added.

Amira Aisya

“I Was You Once”

Speaking from personal experience, Amira shared how her own political awakening was sparked by witnessing student protests in her younger years.

“When I was younger, I saw people standing up against injustice and I told myself, ‘I want to do that too.’ That’s how I found my voice," she said.

Amira believes that even if protests don’t change the world overnight, they sow seeds, sometimes in the hearts of complete strangers.

“Even if you can’t inspire all Malaysians, if what you’re doing manages to change the mindset of just one person, then you’ve already fulfilled your duty as a Malaysian".

“Don’t Bow Down to Pressure”

To students and young activists facing threats or harassment, Amira had this to say: “Do not bow down to pressure. Don’t let them scare you into silence. If they threaten you, remember: it is your right to assemble. It is your right to speak. It is your right to demand better.”

She praised the younger generation for their resilience and bravery in pushing back against corruption and injustice, often at great personal risk.

“Your bravery will give birth to more bravery. People are watching. People are being inspired. Your voice is louder than you think," she said.

A New Generation of Change-Makers

As Malaysia continues to grapple with political uncertainty and calls for reform, Amira sees the youth as not just the future but the present.

“The fight doesn’t belong only to politicians. It belongs to every Malaysian who refuses to stay silent,” she said.

In her eyes, every poster held up, every chant shouted and every uncomfortable question asked is part of building a better nation.

“If you’re young and angry at the way things are, that’s good. Speak. March. Question. Because your voice matters. And change has never started quietly".

Malaysia’s right to peaceful assembly, she said, was enshrined in the Federal Constitution under Article 10. Despite this, youth-led protests often face public scrutiny, legal threats and intimidation.

Amira reminds the people that protesting was not a disruption of democracy, but the heartbeat of one.