Chiew Choon Man welcomes PH’s decision to field younger candidates in Melaka, highlighting their potential to bring fresh perspectives to state politics.
PETALING JAYA: Deputy Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Chiew Choon Man has welcomed Pakatan Harapan’s (PH) decision to field younger candidates in the Melaka state election, urging voters to give them an opportunity to prove themselves.
In a statement, Chiew, who is also Miri MP and Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) vice youth chief, described the move as “brave and bold”.
Among the younger candidates he highlighted were Muhammad Mukhlisul Mubin Julaisapiyah, 24, in Kuala Linggi; Farzana Hayani Mohd Nasir, 26, in Kelebang; Jason Tze-Xi Nathan, 31, in Pengkalan Batu; and Denesh Palasubramaniam, 37, in Asahan.
He noted that many of Malaysia’s prominent statesmen had assumed leadership roles at a young age, adding that an era of rapidly advancing technology required leaders who understood both its challenges and opportunities.
Chiew also cited his own political journey, having been elected Miri MP at the age of 31 before being appointed deputy minister by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in December 2025.
He said serving as a state assemblyman was a good starting point for young leaders, as the role allowed them to connect the everyday needs of the people with policymaking.
He also commended the campaign leadership of Adam Adli and Datuk Ginie Lim, noting that both had gained national recognition while still in their early 20s.
Chiew said fielding younger candidates would help ensure elected representatives reflected the electorate, particularly following the implementation of Undi18 and automatic voter registration.
He added that women made up 30% of PKR’s candidates in the 16th Melaka state election, reflecting the party’s commitment to inclusivity and stronger female representation in state politics.
“I trust Melaka voters to make an informed decision and choose the progressive path,” he said.
