Political coalitions need to shift their approach by looking beyond hierarchy and make room for younger personalities as key leadership figures.

Analysts believe that the current power struggle in the local political scene has underlined the necessity of such a move, which would in turn offer more choices for Malaysians in terms of potential leaders.

Universiti Sains Malaysia Professor Dr Sivamurugan Pandian said although by normal practice, political parties would nominate a candidate based on hierarchy, he feels it is time they prioritise quality over seniority.

Political coalitions, he said, should move beyond certain personalities and make room for young blood who are able to lead, gain followers and fearlessly take bold yet strategic risks. 

This, he said, was especially important during the current Covid-19 outbreak that had badly affected the economy and people's livelihoods. 

"Those who are more senior must understand that they have to make way for the young leaders because for some time now, we keep seeing the same faces. 

"We can't continue to be tied to old, traditional politics. We should not question whether or not these young leaders can lead as they've never been given a chance to prove themselves. 

"Given the opportunity, I believe our young leaders can help Malaysia move faster in becoming a developed nation because the way they will address issues will be different than the previous generations," he said.

Malaysia's economy evolved since 1970 from one based primarily on the export of raw materials — rubber and tin — to one that was among the strongest, most diversified and fastest-growing in Southeast Asia.

Although its status was upgraded to a developing nation in the 20th century, Malaysia is still stuck at the developing phase, two decades after the world has moved into the 21st century. 

Asked on the young candidates who could help steer the country in the right direction, Sivamurugan pointed to Rembau member of parliament Khairy Jamaluddin, Permatang Pauh MP Nurul Izzah and Muar MP Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman. 

"These are the new breed we should focus on. They have leadership qualities that people want to see and they are able to gain followers.

"The ability to gain followers is important in becoming a leader. If we reciprocate with these kind of leaders, we will be in good hands. 

"Never doubt the possibility of the young taking over the reins."

National Professors Council chairman Professor Datuk Dr Shamsul Amri Baharuddin echoed a similar view, saying the country needs risk-takers who are knowledgeable and tech-savvy, especially during the current health crisis. 

He said aside from Khairy, Nurul Izzah and Syed Saddiq, attention should also be given to Bukit Mertajam MP Steven Sim and PKR vice-president Rafizi Ramli. 

"If we forget about political seniority for a moment, there are plenty of strong leaders whom we can experiment with. 

"Malaysia has been taking many risks and look at where we are now. What's wrong with taking risks on the younger generation since this country will be left in their hands eventually anyway."

However, the two analysts said young leaders must possess the ability to not only gain the "magic number" in the Dewan Rakyat but also maintain it.

Shamsul, meanwhile, noted that considering Malaysia's political system where coalitions get a say on who they want to appoint as their prime minister candidate, young leaders have no choice but to rely on this setup, at least for now. 

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2021/07/706907/make-room-young-leaders