In Surakarta, there are 22,326 first-time voters between the ages of 17 and 22.

“Since the beginning of this year, we have opened the Galeri Literasi Demokrasi [Democracy Literacy Gallery]. It’s an election smart house that serves as an election education center,” said KPU Surakarta head Agus Sulistyo on Tuesday.

Through its programs, such as "KPU Goes to University" and "KPU Goes to School", the commission is educating first-time voters.

“At the gallery, we provide election data and archives, movies on elections, simulations and discussion rooms as well as books on politics,” said Agus.

The Surakarta KPU established the Galeri Literasi Demokrasi with the Surakarta administration.

“Currently, most first-time voters are apathetic about politics. This group needs special attention,” said Agus.

“Political education is minimal at both schools and universities. Information can be easily obtained on the Internet, but they [first-time voters] are not interested in doing so because they don’t have adequate sources,” he said.

Andamar Ati, an 18-year-old first-time voter, said the Surakarta KPU had provided a good and comprehensive election simulation, but it had not yet provided good background knowledge on the candidates.

“The KPU only said to ‘choose a good leader’ while [it seems to me] all candidates are good,” said Andamar. “I have not yet decided whom I will choose.” (gis/ebf)