PAS must focus on youth economic concerns, not family connections, deputy says

Addressing delegates at the PAS muktamar, Tuan Ibrahim Ismail cautioned the Islamist party against relying solely on family ties and traditional support networks to win over young Malaysians. Instead, he called for a more substantive approach centred on economic concerns that directly affect the youth demographic.

The PAS deputy president stressed that the party must articulate clear policies and initiatives showing how its governance will materially improve the lives of younger voters. With cost of living emerging as a critical issue for Malaysian households, Tuan Ibrahim indicated that PAS should prioritise demonstrating concrete solutions to economic pressures facing youth seeking employment, housing, and financial stability.

His remarks reflect broader challenges facing traditional political parties in engaging younger demographics, who increasingly vote based on policy platforms and economic prospects rather than inherited party loyalty. The statement suggests PAS recognises the need to modernise its appeal beyond conventional patronage structures if it is to maintain relevance among Malaysia's youth population.

The push comes as political parties across the region grapple with shifting voter preferences and generational divides in electoral support.