As Malaysians, we are constantly bombarded with reasons to get angry. Every other day, a new controversy emerges, and we could not help but share our own views on it.

While our instinct naturally drives us to engage, our well-intentioned explanations might cause the opposite outcome than we hoped for. Discussions turn into arguments. Before we know it, what started as a local issue, would rapidly grow into a national matter. More and more groups get outraged, picking different sides of the argument.

Realising this, I was careful to not ‘add more fuel to the fire’ during the recent Timah issue by discussing the matter at length. But, it would also be a missed opportunity to not expose the way issues like this are being used to fan voters’ racial or religious sentiments.

As I mentioned in my interview with Al Jazeera* recently, “This was not the first time, and it will not be the last time” that a divisive issue is used to gain political mileage. Often using half-truths or outright lies.

Certain political actors will continue to stir outrage. As responsible Malaysians, we should break this cycle and reject all-out anyone who play this dangerous game.

The most recent data show the unemployment rate for youth standing at 8.8 per cent in August 2021, higher than the national average of 4.6 per cent.

As we aspire to the represent this new generation of voters, we must position the party to be their voice and promote ideas to address their daily struggles. Often times, youth is linked to the narrow segment of sports. But it is more than that. Good jobs, decent pay, access to quality healthcare and education, and social protection are youth issues too.

It is time for us to focus on the issues that really matter. Let’s not allow any irresponsible quarters to divide us as a society. Only by standing together as Malaysians can we ensure a better life for each and every one of us.

Check out the snippet of my interview with Al Jazeera here

Raja Ahmad Iskandar Fareez
Organising Secretary, DAPSY Bukit Bintang