“Yes, I think it is time that they become more prominent in the political field, but of course their lack of experience works against them,” Mahathir told the South China Morning Post in an interview published today.

Mahathir, 97, conceded that the space for youth to shine is cramped by the lack of opportunity afforded to them in Malaysia’s politics over the years.

The report said the youth vote is an issue with a real political edge as more than one million voters between the ages of 18 and 20 are taking part in a general election for the first time.

Mahathir, who has been an MP for nine terms since 1964, said it is difficult for the young to show their abilities because they are not actually leaders although he agreed that old people should make way for the young.

“But they must show in many other ways that they are very interested in the affairs of the nation and that they can contribute towards the setting up of better governance for this country,” the daily said.

Mahathir was dismissive when asked if political parties should focus on fielding new and young faces across the board for this election.

Instead, he said that his experience is vital as a touchstone for voters who want leaders with proven track records rather than unfamiliar faces advertising their potential.

Mahathir said real experience is needed to tackle big issues such as the growing wealth disparity, weak management of the economy and an education system that has fallen behind global trends.

He believes that the old-timers need to step up and show the younger generation how to go about the business of leading a nation.