Youth readiness to vote: a survey in Kuching, Sarawak

The number of youths eligible to vote in Malaysian elections has increased significantly since the lowering of voting age to 18 in 2019. This study was conducted to ascertain youth readiness in Kuching to vote. It was also intended to address the factors influencing Kuching youth's readiness to vote. A total of 304 respondents aged 15-40 years old answered the online survey. Consequently, the findings of this study found that only 65.5 per cent of respondents were ready to vote. Factors influencing this readiness included political knowledge, participation in social media, as well as parental and peer influences. These findings are crucial not only for academic but also for providing insights into where the youth stand, allowing the government to develop specific strategies to ensure the successful implementation of UNDI18. It is more important than ever that the youth play a crucial role in determining this nation's future.