“Admiration of political parties is not the young generation's agenda but the assessment on the strength of candidate or the leader himself.”

That was the statement made by a young voter, Farhan Nor Diyana Samsuddin during an interview with Astro Awani.

According to her, the ability of the political leader or the candidate making changes in certain area is the main factor seen and examined by the young generation.

“In this coming General Election (GE), it could be seen that the political parties are more considerate to the needs of the young generation in both manifestos. But can they keep their word?

“The young generation actually want a better quality of life especially in line with the high cost of living. So what will be done by the politicians to stabilise this condition?," said Farhan.

Farhan also added that both sides have to provide a platform for Gen-Y to express their thoughts.

“Because of new media, young voters are more sensitive to a variety of issues. We are no longer in an era that depends to rhetorical answers only.

“Instead the politicians have to come forward and give a clearer view with good facts so that young voters are more loyal to certain political parties,” she said.

Meanwhile, Orator Malaysia chief executive officer Mohd Yunus Zakaria said the debate session was a good way for the politicians to attract young voters with their argument.

“In Malaysia a lot of people see the debate session as a competition or a battle rather in overseas, where it is more mature and goal driven.

“The difference in Malaysia, it is more toward affecting the image of the opponent, condemnation and also dragging old stories. We are debating to talk about future not to dig out old stories,” said Yunus.