During the recent state elections, y.politics, a youth-led organization aimed at increasing political literacy, hosted Fahmi Reza’s Kelas Demokrasi at a coffee shop in Bangi, Selangor.
Renowned satirist Fahmi Reza, known for his conflicts with the police, presented Malaysia’s political system neutrally, explaining the different levels of government and the significance of state elections.
Unfortunately, activists and NGOs raising political awareness in Malaysia are not uncommon.
Fahmi’s Kelas Demokrasi covering Malaysia’s political system, the different levels of government and what state elections determine, among others. — JONATHAN LEE
According to a 2022 study by the Institute for Youth Research Malaysia (IYRES), the scores for political education and discussions on politics, nationhood, and democracy have decreased.
Political literacy is not just an issue among the youth, but a cross-generational problem. It is necessary for the government to introduce political education as a compulsory subject in the education system.
Currently, political education is loosely incorporated into moral and civic studies at the primary and secondary education levels. Higher education institutions have General Studies, but it lacks comprehensive political education.
The national curriculum needs to be reformed to include topics like Malaysia’s Federal Constitution, separation of powers, governmental system, and elections.
Malaysia can learn from Sweden and Germany, where political education is successful in encouraging youth political participation and countering extremism.
Teaching democracy intricacies should focus on simulation and practical aspects like elections rather than rote learning, and teachers must be properly trained to handle sensitive discussions impartially.
Political education should complement the existing civic education curriculum to create politically aware and responsible citizens.
A politically literate youth can counter extremism and avoid apathy, contributing to higher accountability and preventing brain drain in the country.
Imparting political knowledge at an early age is crucial in building a knowledgeable citizenry.
Jonathan Lee, a former participant in The Star’s BRATs program and a Malaysian youth advocate, is the author of this article. @ypolitics.my is a youth-led movement and Instagram page that aims to generate politically aware Malaysian youths.
Credit: The Star : News Feed
