SHAH ALAM - Youths in the country hope that the state elections in six states set on Aug 12 will be held with integrity and conducted fairly in an ethical manner.
A university student from Nilai, Negeri Sembilan Aaron Daniel, 21, said voting was an essential democratic process that allowed citizens to participate in shaping the government and policies and therefore it was crucial to ensure electoral integrity was protected.
"It is very important for individuals to exercise their rights to vote and make informed decisions based on their values, beliefs, and priorities.
"By casting my vote in the upcoming state polls in, I can contribute to the selection of representatives who aligned with my vision for the state and can work towards addressing issues which are important to me,” he told Sinar Daily.
Aaron said he hoped for the country to have good governance which included transparency, accountability, and ethical conduct from the elected representatives.
He added that policy priorities are important in the state polls as they determine the direction and focus of the governance in a particular state.
He also hoped for an effective leadership.
"I hope for a responsive representation, inclusive governance, collaboration and unity, long-term vision and planning and social justice and equality.
"Clean and fair elections are a cornerstone of democratic societies as they allow citizens to exercise their right to vote freely, express their preferences, and have a say in the governance of their country.
"I hope that they demonstrate high ethical standards, honesty, and integrity. I hope that they possess the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience to effectively address the challenges and responsibilities of their role,” he said.
Besides that, he said candidates should demonstrate strong leadership qualities, including the ability to make informed decisions, navigate complex issues, and inspire others.
Meanwhile, Hiew Jing Wen, 22, from Kulim, Kedah said she was of the opinion that the upcoming state elections would be quite competitive as every candidate have their own targets to achieve in serving the public.
Hiew who is doing her internship as a content designer said she hoped for the candidates to be able to carry out more activities or events to boost the tourism sector especially in Kedah.
"I want candidates to be able to really understand what the public needs and think of a way to help or support them and not only pretend to want to help the people and then just leaving them afterwards.
"I hope that the candidates are able to achieve the vision and mission which they have promised to the voters. They should be able to contribute better service quality to the voters in return,” she said when contacted.
Student Muniswari Jayakumar, 21, from Seremban said the state elections were important as each states have their expectations for the state government to deliver which was based on what the people wanted and what they needed.
"In my opinion, the coalition parties depend on this election which I think either way depends on the promises they make and what they could actually deliver for the sake of the people in a particular state.
"Fair treatment to all kinds of people regardless of race and no discrimination to any social class and race.
"I hope that they should have a clear vision on the leadership to run the state and its people with good principles and motos,” she expressed.
Foo Yu Bin, 23, another student from Nilai believed that all Malaysians wanted a free and fair election and a better future for the country.
Thus, he said the election was not something to be taken lightly by the people and the candidates.
"My only hope is for the candidates to be able to lead Malaysia to a better future, whoever is stepping up or down is fine for me,” he added.