KIMANIS, Nov 7 — Barisan Nasional (BN) is confident that backing from independent and discerning youth voters will be decisive for the coalition during the 17th Sabah state election.
BN deputy chairman Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan said young voters are increasingly open-minded and make decisions based on their needs and future, rather than party loyalty.
“These young people have no allegiance to any party. During the 15th general election, BN lost significant support among young voters. However, in subsequent by-elections, including Nenggiri, Mahkota, Ayer Kuning, and Pelangai, youth voters accounted for a large share of BN supporters.
“Our victories with significant majorities were largely due to the support of young voters,” he told reporters after visiting several district polling centres today.
Mohamad added that this backing reflected a shift in attitude among young voters, who are beginning to recognise the government’s ability to secure their future through policies that provide direct benefits.
During visits to several state constituencies, including Putatan, Membakut, and Bongawan, Mohamad observed strong enthusiasm among BN grassroots supporters ahead of the Sabah state election later this month.
The Election Commission (EC) has set November 15 as nomination day for the state election, with early voting on November 25 and polling on November 29.
The implementation of Undi18 in December 2021 allowed citizens aged 18 and above to be automatically registered as voters, making the upcoming state election the first real test to assess the voting trends and preferences of young voters in determining the state’s political direction. — Bernama
