ALOR STAR – The Kedah assembly today passed a bill to amend the state constitution to lower the eligible age of electoral candidates for state seats from 21 to 18.
The amendment to the bill was tabled by Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor, and debated by several assemblymen before being passed.
Earlier during the debate session, Datuk Phahrolrazi Zawawi (Alor Mengkudu- Amanah) said the youth should be exposed to the country’s political system and governance.
“Before students leave school, the democratic system and constitutional monarchy must be explained to them. Otherwise, they will not understand and (will) vote as they like,” he said.
Datuk Zamri Yusuf (Suka Menanti-PKR) said the amendment will provide an opportunity for youth, especially those aged 18 to 20, to become assemblymen and be involved in determining matters related to them.
Meanwhile, Sanusi said the amendment is in line with the passing of the bill to amend the federal constitution to lower the voting age and the eligible age of electoral candidates from 21 to 18 in 2019.
The assembly adjourned sine die. – Bernama, November 18, 2021
