By: Ayu Mandalika )*
The 2024 Regional Head Election (Pilkada) is an important moment for the future of Indonesia, especially because it contains a great opportunity to form local leadership that is qualified and has integrity. In this context, the role of the younger generation or first-time voters as voters becomes increasingly important. The younger generation, who are now at the peak of their demographics, have great potential to influence the election results and the direction of future government policies.
The General Election Commission (KPU) has determined that the total number of permanent voter lists (DPT) for the 2024 Pilkada has reached 204,807,222 people. Of that number, 66,822,389 voters or around 33.60 percent are from the millennial generation. On the other hand, the number of voters belonging to generation Z has reached 46,800,161 people, which is equivalent to 22.85 percent of the total voters. The combination of these two generations covers a total of 56.45 percent of the total number of voters, indicating that both generations have a significant influence in the election process and have great potential to bring about change and make positive contributions to democratic decision-making.
However, amidst these eye-catching numbers, many members of Generation Z and millennials feel that the democratic party often only benefits a handful of groups or certain parties. Although the decision to vote or not to vote is a personal right for each individual, it is important to remember that as citizens who have met the age requirements, Generation Z and millennials have a responsibility to actively participate in the 2024 Pilkada. By exercising their right to vote, they can not only contribute to the success of the election, but also ensure that their voices are heard and influence the direction of the nation’s future.
The Chairman of the Kampar Regency General Election Commission (KPU), Andi Putra, SE, MMA, signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) covering cooperation in various activities related to voter education. One of the important activities that has just been carried out is the Public Dialogue, which was organized by the Kampar Regency KPU together with the National Democratic Student League (LMND). Andi said that the Kampar KPU and LMND managed to organize a very successful collaboration, which was attended by more than 300 participants in the socialization of the Kampar Pilkada which was presented in the Public Dialogue format. This is a strategic step to ensure that the voices of the younger generation are heard in the democratic process. The KPU believes that by actively involving students and pupils, it can strengthen democracy and improve the quality of participation of the younger generation.
Andi also hopes that through this collaboration, the atmosphere of the Kampar Regency Pilkada can be more participatory. He wants young voters to get enough information and a deep understanding of the Pilkada, so that they can use their voting rights wisely.
In addition, the Head of LMND Kampar Regency, Rahmat Aswin, emphasized his commitment to continue working with the Kampar Regency KPU in efforts to increase political awareness among young voters during the Kampar Pilkada.
According to Aswin, building political awareness among young people is very important. He noted that currently politics among young people is often too focused on less important rational ideas. Through the Public Dialogue activity held, Aswin hopes to encourage the younger generation and Gen Z to better understand and appreciate the importance of their voting rights in the upcoming Pilkada. He also expressed his gratitude to the Kampar KPU for the valuable opportunity given to LMND to contribute positively to the democratic process in Kampar Regency.
Meanwhile, KPU Member, August Mellaz, revealed that in the 2024 Pilkada, most voters will come from Generation Z and Millennials, which cover around 55% of the total voters. It is important for the younger generation not only to recognize and understand the vision and mission of the election participants, but also to assist the KPU in the process of implementing the 2024 Pilkada. According to Mellaz, the younger generation must have the same understanding that elections are a tool for national integration and unification, not division. Mellaz added that after the election is over, regardless of who wins or loses, all Indonesian citizens will bear the same burden to keep the Republic of Indonesia strong, and this will ultimately be the responsibility of the younger generation.
With the advancement of information technology, Mellaz believes that the younger generation, who are familiar with technology, can help the KPU in filtering misinformation, disinformation, hoaxes, and hate speech.
The younger generation has different hopes and visions than the previous generation. The younger generation tends to be more progressive, concerned with environmental issues, digital access, and social equality. By participating in the Pilkada, first-time/young voters have the opportunity to elect leaders who represent their aspirations and will prioritize policies that are relevant to current developments.
The 2024 Pilkada is an important moment for the young generation of Indonesia. With the active participation of the young generation, Indonesian democracy can become more comprehensive, responsive, and accountable. Given the great role of the young generation in determining the future of the nation, their participation in the Pilkada is not only a right, but also a responsibility. Let’s encourage the young generation to be actively involved in the 2024 Pilkada for a better future for Indonesia.
)* International Relations Student, University of Mataram