While fielding new faces might be considered a risk for some, pundits say it might actually be a better idea than fielding more familiar but seasoned faces, as is the case with BN’s candidates, most of whom are over 40 years old.
Speaking to FMT, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (Unimas) analyst Dr Arnold Puyok said this can potentially place Team Adenan behind the Opposition in terms of political strategy, especially when campaigning in urban areas.
“Opposition parties, especially DAP, have a much better strategy in recruiting young people by empowering and giving them important leadership positions. This will ensure they are exposed to the political process early.
“The strategy may work especially in urban areas. BN is trying to do this but is hampered by some old guards who refuse to give way,” Arnold said.
The state’s DAP chapter is fielding 26-year-old Abdul Aziz Isa in Batu Kitang, a seat which the party is going all out to win. He is facing Voon Shiak Ni, who at 46 is a much-older candidate from the party’s estranged ally, PKR.
DAP’s Aziz is not alone in being among the youngest candidates in this Sarawak polls. PKR and PAS also have candidates in their mid-20s, that is, Elia Bit, 27, and Hamidah Mokhtar, 26, respectively.
When asked as to the reason for such a move (fielding young candidates), DAP’s state chairman Chong Chieng Jen said the party has always allowed the young an equal opportunity at moving forward.
“We don’t judge any person by their age, only on meritocracy. They will not only represent the youth better, but also all sectors.
“Look at Aziz, he’s 26. But when he goes out there he can speak better than many 62-year-olds.”
PKR vice-president Dr Xavier Jeyakumar echoed this and said the reason they put their trust in young and budding politicians is to show Sarawakians the changes they need.
“The world is changing. The youth have different ideas and mindsets. They aspire to drive the future of the state towards an open and transparent government which serves everyone, irrespective of race and religion.”
Sarawak PAS secretary Muhtar Suhaili agreed, saying for the Islamist party, their candidates have all been “schooled” at its leadership training centre since young. Hence, they are equipped with the ability to lead those who are younger and even older than them.
“We don’t judge a book by its cover. Our young candidates have the will to fight for what is right for the people. They are educated, and are capable of leading their constituencies.
“They have also worked the ground for the past few years, so it’s not like they are strangers to the constituents.”
The results, however, remain to be seen, and the 11th Sarawak election taking place tomorrow will determine the effectiveness of this strategy.