Jobs, wages and cost of living top young voters' concerns in Johor polls
The pressure has been compounded by the spillover effects of Singapore's economy, which have contributed to higher prices for goods and services in Johor.
PUTRAJAYA – Political parties contesting the Johor state election will need to convince nearly 1.3 million young voters that they can deliver practical solutions to the challenges they face, with analysts saying election promises alone are unlikely to be enough.
Political analyst Dr Mohamad Tawfik Yaakub said voters aged between 18 and 39 are expected to base their decisions on whether parties can demonstrate the ability to resolve pressing issues through proven performance, credible action plans and realistic timelines.
"The main challenge is how to convince them of the party's ability to solve the problems they are currently facing through confidence in the performance and achievements of the BN government in Johor today.
"There must be a clear plan and a realistic timeline because young people need quick solutions so that they are no longer burdened by the same problems," he told Sinar.
Universiti Malaya Administrative and Political Studies Department senior lecturer said expanding employment opportunities is among the top priorities for young voters.
He added that many also expect better wages at home instead of having to cross the border to seek employment in Singapore.
Tawfik said the rising cost of living, particularly in urban centres such as Johor Bahru, remains another major concern influencing voting decisions.
"The cost of living, particularly in urban areas, home ownership and Bantuan Kasih Johor should be expanded not only to the B40 group but also to M40 households affected by the rising cost of living," he said.
He added that the pressure has been compounded by the spillover effects of Singapore's economy, which have contributed to higher prices for goods and services in Johor.
He also stressed the importance of engaging nearly 300,000 young Johor voters residing outside the state, especially those working in Singapore.
According to him, facilitating smoother cross-border travel and offering incentives for those returning to vote could encourage higher turnout among the group.
Earlier, Sinar reported that young voters and first-time voters are expected to play a decisive role in closely contested seats during the 16th Johor state election following the implementation of Undi18 and automatic voter registration.
Political analysts described the bloc as an "anchor" capable of swinging victory to any party, as most young voters are not firmly aligned with any particular political ideology.
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