Lower voting age talk gets mixed input

July 8, 2018

SIBU: The proposal to lower the voting age in Malaysia could be one that warrants consideration, in that the youths are getting more conscious about politics and good governance as well as being more academically-qualified nowadays than ever before.

However for Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youths and Sports Minister Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, this subject is ‘debatable’.

On Thursday, federal Youth and Sports Minister Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman was reported to have suggested that the eligible voting age should be lowered to 18, from the current 21. 

He was also quoted to have said that this could be done ahead of the 15th general election; however, he stressed that his ministry would first have to have a ‘political exposure programme’ for young people.

Chong’s posting on national anthem rattles political leaders

September 18, 2014

KUCHING: Bandar Kuching MP Chong Chieng Jen’s statement to denounce the playing of Negara Ku in cinemas on Malaysia Day has received angry reaction from political leaders.

Chong, in his Facebook page, among others wrote, “Is Malaysia heading towards the communist Mao era where everywhere you go, you must shout loud and show that you are patriotic?”

Chong has subsequently apologised for his comment and subsequently retracted the posting.

Chief political secretary to Chief Minister Abdullah Saidol, said although Chong has apologised and retracted the posting, the first impression mattered most.

“I am surprise and disgusted at the same time over the comment and attitude of a Malaysian citizen, who is an elected representative. Although he (Chong) subsequently acknowledged his comment as inappropriate, his first impression about the subject (national anthem) counts,” Abdullah said.

The Semop assemblyman said many people have read the comment, and Chong should be ashamed of himself.

“How dare he (Chong) compare us to Mao’s communist era,” Abdullah said, adding it was not wrong to stand for a few minutes in cinemas while the National Anthem was playing.

Abdullah believed many people were able to judge by themselves the despicable attitude shown by Chong and that “speaks loud about who he is and what he represents”.