Search

Calls for political studies for students

Facebook
Twitter
WhatsApp
Telegram
Email

KUCHING: It appears that many people think that young people should be immersed in political education while in school.

“This political education can be initiated in primary and secondary school history syllabus,” suggested research and development officer Alan Chua Yee Quan in connection with the recent amendments to the Federal Constitution to lower the minimum voting age from 21 to 18.

He also felt that world history should be integrated into the local history syllabus, which is currently focused on Malaysia and Southeast Asia.

“Understanding different political systems, all the pros and cons, is crucial for youth,” he said.

Chua also emphasised the key role that parents play to help their children gain exposure to knowledge of history and politics.

“Parents should equip themselves with neutral and rational thinking to look at historical issues before delivering them to the next generation to help them think independently before applying it to Malaysia’s political scenario instead of blindly following mainstream ideas to cast their votes in elections,” he said.

Another interviewee, Upper 6 student, Natasha Melintan, suggested that more core subjects covering politics should be taught in school such as general law studies once students enter Form 3 at 15 years of age.

As a youth herself and understanding that stress causes youngsters to be reluctant to study the subject, she added that these subjects should not be included in public exams but more as a way to improve the general awareness of the younger generation.

“This would give them a gist of what is going on in the Malaysian government and how their votes, once they are 18, could impact the future development of Malaysia,” she said.

University student, Ashley Yap, felt that providing students with a general overview of the political scene today via reading assignments or projects would help provide a neutral and informative stance.

“Rather than listening or taking in passively what other people say, it is impactful and more beneficial for them to probe local issues and think from their own perspectives,” she said.

Download from Apple Store or Play Store.