Undi18
KUCHING: It is crucial to focus on how to build engagement with the younger generation.
A senior lecturer at Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) Dr Lee Kuok Tiung said this when commenting on a plan by Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) to amend its constitution to facilitate the setting up of new wings to cater for the Undi18 generation.
“Certainly not to ask them to plunge into politics completely, but how to build engagement as they continue to pursue their studies and develop their careers while engaging with the party or individuals.
“So, the question here is how and what role can SUPP play and who is responsible. This main issue must be researched and resolved first before they start approaching these young ones,” said the political analyst.
For instance, he said this would include legal and regulatory issues regarding student involvement in political activities.
In addition, he said the key word in such approach was inclusiveness, which should entail involvement from all generations.
“This does not mean that previously there was no engagement with the youth, but now it is direct engagement,” he said.
Lee said one of the main reasons for the previous downfall of SUPP, the oldest party in Sarawak, was its failure to produce a new line-up, or young blood. He pointed out that many had overstayed and some were still around.
“They do not want to give way to a new generation and play another role in the party,” he said.
He said since Datuk Seri Dr Sim Kui Hian had taken over as SUPP president, there had been changes, especially on rejuvenating the party.
“The result can be seen in the recent Sarawak election. Although it took almost 10 years for SUPP to re-establish themselves in Sarawak politics, that is a good start and the effort should continue.
“Thus, for me, the move is not exactly as a response to Undi18 but a continuation of what has been worked on during these 10 years,” said Lee.
