YOUNG voters in Sabah flocked to polling stations today to cast their ballots in the 17th Sabah General Election, many participating for the first time under the recently implemented Undi18 and automatic voter registration reforms.
Their early arrival underscores the eagerness of Sabah’s youth to exercise their democratic rights and influence the state’s political future.
While Undi18 was first applied in the 2022 general election, Sabah voters at that time only participated in parliamentary contests, as the state election had been held earlier in 2020.
Today, however, a new generation of first-time voters seized the opportunity to directly impact state governance.
At Sekolah Kebangsaan Bukit Garam, Bernama observed a steady stream of young voters arriving early to ensure they could mark their preferred candidates.
Among them was 18-year-old Siti Syafikah Gem@Gemrus, who admitted feeling a mix of excitement and nerves.
“I hope my vote today can contribute to the ongoing development in Sabah,” said the supermarket worker, marking her first participation in a state election.
Similarly, 18-year-old Muhammad Noh Ibrahim from Kampung Danau Ria expressed optimism that his first vote could encourage more rapid development in Kinabatangan, particularly in the Lamag constituency.
He hoped that the new government would attract industries to the area, creating greater employment opportunities for local residents.
In Tawau, 18-year-old Auni Raihah Ruji, daughter of Pakatan Harapan’s DUN Merotai candidate Datuk Ruji Ubi, also exercised her right to vote.
“Being a voter is important in determining the future of Sabah and Malaysia,” she said.
Mohd Hilmi Bahrun, 20, also from Merotai, voiced the concerns of many young Sabahans.
“Many youths have to leave the state to find employment or lack opportunities for personal development. I hope our elected representatives can create platforms that enable young people in the villages to thrive and earn a decent income,” he said.
At Sekolah Kebangsaan Likas, 18-year-old Mohd Haikal George arrived early to participate in the election, describing the experience as a milestone in his life.
“I am very excited because this is my first time voting. I feel like a true adult,” he said, noting that he was the youngest voter present at the station that morning.
Haikal, who also works at a local shopping centre, shared practical concerns he hopes the new state government will address, including road safety, proper waste management, and street lighting. Recounting a recent accident caused by poor road conditions, he said, “I just want safer roads.
The streetlights are missing, and one night I fell into a drain while going for a haircut.”
Despite the morning rain and a busy schedule, Haikal expressed pride in fulfilling his civic duty before heading to work.
His experience reflects a broader trend among Sabah’s youth, who are determined to participate in shaping the state’s governance and future development.
The strong turnout of first-time voters highlights the growing impact of Undi18, with young Sabahans demonstrating awareness of their role in influencing the state’s policy priorities, infrastructure improvements, and economic opportunities - November 29, 2025
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