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IPOH: The age limit for running as an electoral candidate in Perak was lowered from 21 to 18 through an amendment approved by the state assembly today.
Menteri Besar Ahmad Faizal Azumu said the amendment was in line with the Federal Constitution and was approved after the unanimous support of the 59 state assemblymen.
“The amendment will allow 18-year-olds to participate in elections and subsequently become candidates for the Perak state assembly.
“Young people will have the opportunity to speak in this House and be with us here to discuss bills and laws for the good of the state,” he said.
Faizal said 18-year-olds were considered mature enough to make important decisions, according to the 1971 Majority Law (Law 21).
He said this included getting married, working, obtaining a driver’s license, joining a uniformed team, signing a contract or loan, and being tried as an adult criminal in the event of a crime.
“Lowering the voting age limit will allow young people to actively participate in politics and increase youth participation,” he said, adding that this measure enabled youth in Perak to participate in legislative and policy-making activities, including state governance and develop leadership qualities.
At the federal level, the age limit was changed in July 2019 after 211 MPs gave the go-ahead.
