The candidates and their parties might want to think hard about their 2024 campaign platforms if they want to win over young voters, keeping in mind that today's youth are no pushover when it comes to potential gimmicks, due to their upbringing during the free, open and critical era of social media.
For 17-year-old Putri "Nasya" Murdiono, next year's general election is the first time she will be able to exercise her right to vote.
A Gen Z student at SMA 1 Cisarua senior high school in Bogor, West Java, Nasya is acutely aware of the rising cost of education and intends to cast her vote for candidates who can help her get through school.
It is nonnegotiable for her that candidates have a track record of championing issues that greatly impact the country’s youth, and she feels she might be inclined to support someone who shows that they really care.
"Candidates with a youth-focused agenda have much more appeal [...], as they represent the aspirations of my generation," she told The Jakarta Post on Monday.
Nasya stressed that “their past experiences in trying to solve such issues will be a major consideration for me".
Read also: Presidential hopefuls make foray into luring young voters
Similarly, 21-year-old Gispa "Gege" Warijo-Manoby plans to carefully consider the policy priorities of each candidate before making up her mind.
Share your experiences, suggestions, and any issues you've encountered on The Jakarta Post. We're here to listen.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts. We appreciate your feedback.
Quickly share this news with your network—keep everyone informed with just a single click!
Share the best of The Jakarta Post with friends, family, or colleagues. As a subscriber, you can gift 3 to 5 articles each month that anyone can read—no subscription needed!
Get the best experience—faster access, exclusive features, and a seamless way to stay updated.