Persepsi pemilih automatik (G18) pada pilihanraya umum ke-15 di bawah agensi-agensi Kementerian Pembangunan Luar Bandar dan Wilayah

Elections are a crucial element in the democratic system of any independent nation. It is a process that allows the citizens to choose leaders and parties that will form the government. During each election, political parties competing will nominate their best candidates to ensure they become the choice of the voters. The 15th General Election (GE15) in 2023 witnessed the active participation of young voters, known as G18, shaping the country”s political landscape. Efforts towards democratization and mature, fair, and just elections are essential to drive progress in social and political development in line with the contemporary era. The new wave of G18 is anticipated to have a significant impact on the country”s political dynamics. As a group that generally exhibits a novice understanding of political literacy, G18 is expected to bear the responsibility as voters. This study aims to analyze the voting sentiments, voting patterns and political communication of 18-year-old voters under the supervision of the Ministry of Urban and Regional Planning in the Padang Terap District of Kedah. Findings indicate that young voters prioritize issues such as integrity, leaders” character and citizens” rights, particularly those related to the youth. These 18-yearold voters heavily rely on social media as a source of political information. The government needs to enhance its role in raising awareness among these young voters, ensuring they are more conscious of their responsibilities as voters who will shape the future of the nation.