Umno youth wing seeks greater role in election manifesto drafting

Pemuda Umno president Dr Akmal Saleh said the party must tap its youth wing's input if it hopes to attract support from younger voters in future elections. Speaking on the party's manifesto development process, Dr Akmal emphasized that youth perspectives should be represented in key policy discussions and platform-building efforts.

The call reflects growing recognition within Malaysia's dominant ruling party that engaging younger demographics requires deliberate outreach and incorporating their priorities into party messaging. Youth wings across Malaysian political parties have increasingly sought greater influence over party direction and electoral strategy.

Dr Akmal's statement comes as Umno faces ongoing challenges in mobilizing younger supporters, particularly in urban areas where voter preferences have shifted in recent election cycles. Party strategists have acknowledged the need to refresh policy platforms to address concerns among voters under 40.

The Umno youth leader's intervention suggests internal discussions are underway regarding how the party structures its campaign preparation and whether subsidiary wings should have formal roles in manifesto committees.