Youth feel more things going wrong, survey finds

There is a growing sense of pessimism among the youth regarding their current prospects, according to Merdeka Centre Programme director Ibrahim Suffian.

Speaking at the Merdeka Centre Youth Survey 2024 launch, Ibrahim highlighted concerns over low wages, living conditions, and the overall quality of daily life.

“They feel that more things are going wrong, with much of their anxiety stemming from the economic situation and the fact that their wages aren't keeping pace with the rising cost of living," he said.

However, Ibrahim added that the youth's perception of living conditions wasn’t as negative as expected.

“Surprisingly, they don't view their living conditions as bad, which was unexpected for us, especially post-Covid, when we anticipated a more negative outlook.”

This year's survey included 1,605 respondents from various ethnic backgrounds, aged between 18 and 30, covering all regions.

Going in wrong direction

The survey revealed that 87 percent of respondents believe they enjoy a good quality of life. However, the remaining 13 percent, predominantly made up of Indians and other minority racial groups, expressed dissatisfaction.

One respondent highlighted a key concern: "Our salaries do not match the rising cost of living. Basic wages need to be increased to help young people start their careers."

The survey also found that 52 percent of respondents, or approximately 835 people, feel the country is headed in the wrong direction. The top concerns are economic issues, followed by governance, politics, racial tensions, and leadership challenges.

Despite these concerns, 47 percent of respondents expressed optimism that the Malaysian economy will improve in the coming year.

"The respondents suggested that the government should focus on reviving the national economy based on the needs of the people," the report stated.

Additionally, a majority of the respondents are hopeful that their household financial situations will improve by 2025.

Govt’s performance

The survey also found another critical insight into youth - they view politicians and the government as separate entities, often viewing the former negatively.

Merdeka Centre’s senior research officer Fadhil Rahman explained that respondents expressed positive feelings towards government actions, particularly its various programmes and the quality of civil service.

“While only 31 percent of respondents trust politicians, many are generally satisfied with the government’s overall performance,” he said.

The survey highlighted that while the government has been commended for assisting those in need, respondents stressed the importance of greater stability and transparency.

Around half of the respondents also expressed trust in the Parliament but viewed it as a battleground where genuine issues often get lost amid political interests.

Woman as PM

Notably, 57 percent of respondents agreed that a woman could serve as prime minister, reflecting a shift in societal attitudes.

While most regions support having a woman as prime minister, the East Coast's sentiment differs significantly.

The region recorded the highest level of disagreement, at 58 percent, followed by the northern region, with 39 percent.

It also pointed out that while Malay youth are largely pragmatic and open, they project conservative tendencies in some areas, such as women as national leaders.

The survey included 1,605 respondents aged 18 to 30, representing various racial groups from all regions, including the north, south, central, and east coast of Peninsular Malaysia, as well as Sabah and Sarawak.

It also had an equal number of male and female participants.

The survey included 1,605 respondents aged 18 to 30 who were polled via telephone between April 3 and May 12. They were selected randomly along the lines of ethnicity, gender, age, and state to help ensure a nationally representative sample.

In addition, Merdeka Center conducted a series of eight focus group discussions involving 46 Malay youths, and five workshops involving 185 youths.

The survey concluded with five key recommendations:

1. Enhance skills and entrepreneurship support.

2. Promote nation-building and unity.

3. Improve the political image.

4. Strengthen government communication.

5. Expand political education and advocacy.

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