Modelling Youth Involvement in Politic Using Structural Equation Modelling: Partial Least Square (SEM: PLS)

Abstract

Malaysia utilizes parliamentary democracy and constitutional monarchy as the fundamental pillars of its administration. The two systems function jointly via three interdependent branches: legislative, executive, and judicial. Members of Parliament possess authority over both the legislative and executive branches, irrespective of their election in a general election or appointment as Senators. The active involvement of youth in politics is essential, underscoring the need for a comprehensive empirical investigation to assess their participation in the political sphere, which has profound implications for the nation. This quantitative research employed a causal-comparative methodology, utilizing quota sampling and a purposive approach to gather a sample of 1500 youths. The findings indicate that peer influence, social media, and political socialization greatly affect adolescents' political engagement. This research enhances understanding of young participation in politics via its key determinants. The development of youngsters within the political sphere is crucial for preparing them to assume leadership roles in the nation. An effective approach to cultivating the younger generation's resilience against institutional frameworks and administrative systems is via their involvement in political participation. Consequently, this research will augment the comprehension of political and youth dynamics in Malaysia for many stakeholders, including political leaders, citizens, and the broader public. It will facilitate the national development process under Malaysia's Shared Prosperity Vision Plan for 2030.

Keywords: Media, Politic, Peer, Youth, Socialization

Introduction

Youth involvement in politic is one of the most prominent topics of discussion in contemporary societies worldwide. The debate over the eligibility of young individuals to engage in political processes is a prominent topic of discussion. This discussion is taking place at this specific issue which is individuals youth between 15 and 40 engagement in political movements. Young individuals constitute a significant segment of the overall population, and in some nations, they occasionally represent the majority (Dettman & Gomez, 2019). This phenomenon is observed in several countries. Historically, the involvement of these groups in formal political processes has been somewhat limited, despite their greater numerical strength (Mansoon, 2020). The substantial membership of these groupings does not alter the persistence of this predicament. The aim of this study is to elucidate the conclusions of the conducted study and to provide a critical examination of the role of youth in politics, along with the opportunities and challenges they encounter. Furthermore, it examines how the active engagement of youth may disrupt political environments, enhance democratic government, and promote sustainable development. The involvement of youth in political processes is crucial for many reasons. Primarily, it introduces innovative perspectives and imaginative ideas to the discourse, enabling participation in governance and strategic development. The importance of this aspect of its contribution is paramount. Young persons, often at the forefront of technological advancements and societal change, usually devise answers to modern issues like climate change, digital transformation, and social justice (Arshad & Ajis, 2023). Youngsters are more prone to encountering modern difficulties thus the involvement of youth in politics enhances the likelihood that the decision-making process would be equitable for persons across different generations (Dettman & Gomez, 2019). This is because younger individuals tend to have a greater propensity for active participation in the process. It is imperative for individuals who will bear the consequences of forthcoming policies, particularly those related to job creation, environmental conservation, and educational reform, to articulate their perspectives on the policymaking processes relevant to these specific sectors. This group encompasses all those who will endure the consequences directly resulting from the actions undertaken (Mansoon, 2020). When youth are not actively engaged in governance, there is an increased likelihood of bias favoring the interests of older generations, perhaps resulting in the neglect of issues with long-term consequences. In the long run, this may lead to neglect of issues that are very significant yet are overlooked. Young people have the capacity to enhance the proliferation of democracy via their participation in political processes and activities. An increase in involvement leads to a decrease in political apathy and disenfranchisement, fostering trust that governments better represent and respond to the concerns of their constituents (Mansoon, 2020).

The engagement of young individuals in the community reduces their likelihood of participating in anti-democratic or radical actions; hence, it fosters stability and inclusion within the community (Levinsen & Yndigegn, 2015). This is a variable that helps with community development which to the emergence of political movements throughout human history that has been profoundly shaped by the involvement of youth as a crucial element. The fight for civil rights in the United States, the opposition to apartheid in South Africa, and the Arab Spring are all instances when youth have been the catalyst for revolutionary change. These are just a few examples. Conversely, when initiatives of this kind get a certain degree of popularity, their contributions are often overlooked or disregarded (Levinsen & Yndigegn 2015). Conversely, this is precisely what occurs. The younger generation has been sidelined due to established political structures that reserve leadership roles for older, more experienced individuals. This has been the case throughout history. This has, indeed, been the prevailing stance throughout human history. Although gerontocracy is based on the concept that an increase in age correlates with enhanced knowledge and stability, it has persisted in several civilizations. This stems from the establishment of gerontocracy, which is founded on this notion. The practice of gerontocracy has been maintained in several civilizations. The marginalization of young people has resulted in increased frustration, leading them to explore other methods of political expression, including activism and campaigns conducted on social media platforms (Steven et al., 2018). This has motivated them to explore novel methods of political expression, driven individuals to seek novel avenues for political expression and prompting them to explore alternate options. Howeve, Kovacheva (2005) identifies a significant indicator of diminishing young participation in politics, shown by reduced voter turnout in general elections and insufficient youth involvement in political party operations. His conclusions are corroborated by the association between the two variables. This predicament has emerged because many young people tend to put their academic and professional ambitions above political involvement. They are motivated by the belief that their future prospects are difficult to forecast (Kovacheva, 2005).

Malaysia is one of the countries that is affected by the idea that youngsters should be disassociated with political movements (Yusof, 2018). In Malaysia, the implementation of political reform in September 1998, spearheaded by Anwar Ibrahim, has resulted in a notable surge in youth engagement within the political sphere. Furthermore, the reform agenda has exerted a profound influence on the ideological perspectives of the younger generation (Shafiq, 2018). This political reform proposal has had a transformative impact on the attitudes and engagement of the younger generation in Malaysia with regards to politics. In contemporary times, there has been a noticeable increase in the representation of young individuals in political positions, particularly as Members of Parliament (MPs) (Salehan et al.,2024). Notable examples include Adam Adli Abd Halim, who serves as the MP of Hang Tuah Jaya Parliamentary, Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman, who holds the position of MP of Muar Parliamentary, Prabakaran Parameswaran, who serves as the MP of Batu Parliamentary, Rafizi Ramli, who holds the position of MP of Pandan Parliamentary, Ahmad Fadhli Shaari, who serves as the MP of Pasir Mas Parliamentary, and Wan Ahmad Fahysal, who holds the position of MP of Machang Parliamentary. Wan Ahmad Kamal, Member of Parliament representing the Segambut Parliamentary constituency, Hannah Yeoh, Member of Parliament representing the Bentong Parliamentary constituency, and Young Syefura Othman A significant number of youthful parliamentarians emerged victorious in the fifteenth General Election (GE-15), securing their respective seats (Salehan et al.,2024). The observed tendency bears similarities to the outcome of the General Election 14 (GE-14), wherein a majority of youthful lawmakers emerged victorious in their respective contested constituencies (Salehan et al.,2024).The recent political changes in Malaysia have prompted political parties to recognize the need for strategic realignment in order to establish deeper connections with the millennial demographic (Razak & Nufael, 2019). The political parties responded to the dissolution of the long-standing 60-year-old administration led by the National Front (BN) by transitioning to the newly established political coalition known as Pakatan Harapan (PH) during the 14th General Election (GE-14). The PH Party gained popularity among young voters primarily because to the notable presence of young leaders within their candidate pool and their political agenda that strongly aligned with the aspirations of the younger demographic (Razak & Nufael, 2019). Subsequently, the significance of the youth vote has been recognized, prompting political parties to strategically appeal to young voters in order to secure their support.      

The electoral landscape of Malaysia's in General Election 15 (GE-15) exhibits a discernible pattern of demographic diversification among young voters, particularly in relation to their political affiliations with the People's Hope Party (PH) and the Perikatan Nasional (PN) coalition (Salehan et al., 2024). In response to this circumstance, the Malaysian parliament, in the year 2019, granted approval to the proposed change to the Constitution Bill, which sought to restrict the voting age from 21 to 18 years. The amendment under consideration garnered unanimous support from the entirety of the 211 Members of Parliament who were in attendance (Razak & Nufael, 2019). One of the factors contributing to this phenomenon is the establishment of an age threshold of 18 years, which enables young individuals to exercise their agency in selecting a representative who can effectively advocate for their interests (Salehan et al., 2024). Lowering the voting age is expected to have a substantial impact on enhancing young engagement in political affairs and their active involvement in fostering national progress, thereby cultivating a sense of responsibility among them as members of society. The active participation of young individuals will foster a heterogeneous environment, since this demographic have the capacity to generate novel ideas and perceive challenges from a multitude of viewpoints. The engagement of youth in politics is essential for democratic societies, since they constitute a substantial segment of the population and have the capacity to influence the future of government and social progress (Steven et al., 2018). Nonetheless, data from many research studies and surveys indicate a worldwide decline in young political engagement, particularly in several developing countries as this phenomenon elicits much apprehension over the inclusion, durability, and efficacy of democratic regimes (Salehan et al., 2024). Youths often encounter structural obstacles to political participation, such as inadequate access to political education, insufficient representation in decision-making processes, and disillusionment with current political frameworks (Razak & Nufael, 2019) . A significant number see conventional political institutions as ineffectual, corrupt, or inattentive to their requirements and the increasing political apathy among young people undermines democratic norms, as their views and ideas are marginalized in policymaking processes that profoundly affect their futures (Steven et al.,2018). The issue of youth political participation is complex, requiring a holistic strategy to tackle institutional obstacles and promote substantial engagement (Salehan et al., 2024). It is important to look into this area in order to find effective ways to get more teens involved, such as promoting political education, improving digital and offline tools for interaction, and making sure that everyone has an equal voice. Comprehending the fundamental reasons for disengagement and investigating new solutions will be essential for constructing inclusive and robust democratic institutions that enable young people to actively participate in political movements.

Assessment of Youth Participation in Politic

In her book entitled "Young People and Political Participation: Teen Players," Jacqueline Briggs examines the level of engagement among young individuals in the realm of politics. The apathy observed among the youth population may serve as an indicator of contentment (Briggs, 2017). This concept gave rise to the perspective that political protests were instigated by the younger generation, who asserted the significance of their rights to political participation. Nevertheless, Manson (2020) has demonstrated that there remains little data to support the assertion and hasty inference that attributing significance to the youth within the political sphere is the primary catalyst for their protests. According to Willmott (2019), there is evidence to suggest that the younger generation exhibits a keen inclination towards political activism, driven by their deep-seated concerns regarding environmental issues and the protection of animals. Brand argues that the apathetic phrases lack relevance in terms of fostering youth participation in politics just based on their altruistic nature. There exist varying perspectives regarding the engagement of young individuals in political activities, with a common objective of enhancing social welfare through active involvement in social activity.

This perspective is consistent with the findings presented in the Handbook of Research on Civic Engagement in Youth by Dettman and Gomez (2019). The authors draw upon data obtained from the IEA Civic Education Study 1999/2000, which examined the attitudes of 14-year-old adolescents from 24 different countries. The primary objective of this research was to generate theoretical and empirical insights regarding the youth's inclination to engage in political activities. Nordic civic activity, characterized by its focus on understanding the patterns of youth engagement in political spheres, has been identified as an exemplary case. In addition, the researchers have discerned a distinction in the perspectives of adolescents and the elder generation about their political desires. The following elements may contribute to the improvement of measuring youth participation in politics. Hence, drawing upon the conceptual framework, it may be inferred that family and friends play a pivotal role in influencing the engagement of young individuals in political activities. Engaging in political discourse with family and friends contributes to the cultivation of the youth's interest in politics. The family unit serves as an inherent political platform for engaging in discussions pertaining to politics and society. This is a context in which young individuals are raised by parents who engage in frequent discussions regarding contemporary political affairs (Levinsen & Yindigegn, 2015).

The historical literature on politics does not differ much, as youth political participation has always been important in Malaysia. Young people are seen as change agents with the energy, enthusiasm, and ingenuity to challenge conventional wisdom and boost national growth (Ramli et al., 2023). Malaysia's classic view of young political engagement is rooted in its socio-political context, historical development, cultural dynamics, passion, activity, and institutional constraints interact as young politicians are expected to challenge established structures and advance because youth were key anti-colonial activists in Malaysia before independence (Salehan et al., 2024). The student movements and organization like Kesatuan Melayu Muda (KMM) rallied young Malaysians against British colonialism by advocating for independence and indigenous rights in the 1940s and 1950s and this persisted after independence where youth movements and university student organizations fueled political debates in the 1960s and 1970s (Ramli et al., 2023). Students movements raised concerns about education, rural development, and social inequality and the young people's political participation in Malaysia solidified their role as social change agents over these decades as youth possess significant political potential, yet traditional perspectives perceive numerous obstacles (Razak & Nufael, 2019). Malaysian politics has traditionally favored elder elites over youth as party youth wings often train and indoctrinate rather than lead and young people's autonomy and ability to challenge norms are limited by hierarchical politics (Ramli et al., 2023). Malaysia's ethnic and religious diversity influences youth politics as community identity and ethnic party loyalty discourage youth from participating in cross-communal political initiatives lead to they are sometimes considered party loyalists rather than independent politicians thus the traditionalists understand young Malaysians' political dissatisfaction due to favoritism, corruption, and exclusion (Mansoon, 2020). Young people in Malaysia feel disconnected from political institutions that don't reflect their goals, they see politics as dominated by older, established elites who resist change lead to youth participation has often occurred outside political frameworks and Malaysian youth have increasingly used civil society and NGOs for political expression since the 1980s (Mansoon, 2020). These movements for environmental protection, education, and social justice allowed youth to seek change outside party politics. History, culture, globalization, and technology shape youth's views on political participation in Malaysian political system.

In the modern age, the internet and social media gave Malaysian youth new political opportunities in the 1990s and 2000s as the youth bypassed media and politics to organize protests, express their opinions, and share information onTraditional politics, while valuing youth, also acknowledges their challenges (Mansoon, 2020). Economic insecurity, unemployment, and poor political education have hampered their participation but the 1971 Universities and Colleges Act (UUCA) has stifled student activism, reducing young political engagement (Mansoon, 2020). Thus, the government amended this Act to enourage greater invovlements of youths in Malaysian politics (Razak & Nufael, 2019). Youth engagement in politics in Malaysia has undergone considerable transformation, particularly in a contemporary era marked by globalization, technological progress, and changing societal norms (Levinsen & Yindigegn, 2015). This increasing involvement signifies the evolving dynamics of political activism in the nation and the crucial role that youth occupy in influencing Malaysia's democratic framework. The emergence of digital platforms and social media represents a significant evolution in contemporary youth political engagement. Social media platforms, such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok, have emerged as potent instruments for political expression and mobilization (Aunn, 2022). Young Malaysians utilize these platforms to express opinions, engage in policy debates, and coordinate grassroots initiatives, circumventing conventional information gatekeepers, such as mainstream media and political elites. In the 2018 General Election (GE14), youth-driven campaigns on social media were pivotal in mobilizing voters and disseminating information regarding corruption, governance, and economic issues (Aunn, 2022). The employment of hashtags, viral videos, and political memes fostered a sense of urgency and connection among young voters, facilitating the extraordinary shift in governance following sixty years of Barisan Nasional coalition rule. This transition to digital engagement signifies a wider trend among contemporary youth disenchanted with conventional political frameworks (Levinsen & Yindigegn, 2015). Social media provides a platform for challenging established narratives, advocating for transparency, and amplifying marginalized voices, thereby reshaping Malaysia's political discourse.

A significant advancement in contemporary youth engagement was the effective campaign to reduce the voting age from 21 to 18, led by the #Undi18 movement (Levinsen & Yindigegn, 2015). This youth-led initiative, initiated in 2016, mobilized public support and achieved bipartisan endorsement in Parliament, culminating in a constitutional amendment in 2019. The action granted voting rights to millions of young Malaysians, indicating a substantial transformation in the political landscape. The triumph of #Undi18 underscores the increasing power of youth in influencing policies that affect them directly (Aunn, 2022). It also highlights their capacity to interact with legislators and maneuver through institutional procedures to achieve concrete outcomes (Aunn, 2022). Consequently, political parties have increasingly focused on youth-centric issues, incorporating younger perspectives into their campaigns and policymaking. Contemporary Malaysian youth are actively engaging in politics via grassroots activism and civil society initiatives. Many youth are actively involved in non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and advocacy groups that tackle issues such as climate change, educational reform, gender equality, and labour rights (Mohd Ramlan & Mohd Naeim, 2023). These platforms enable youth to impact policy and promote systemic change independently of conventional political parties. Movements such as Bersih, advocating for free and fair elections, have experienced considerable engagement from the youth (Mohd Ramlan & Mohd Naeim, 2023). Their participation signifies a commitment to accountability and reforms in electoral and governance frameworks. Youth activists have played a crucial role in organizing climate marches and awareness campaigns, demonstrating their dedication to sustainability issues at both the global and local levels.

In post modern country with Parlimentary Democracy system in Malaysia, the youth constitute a significant demographic and the examination of youth engagement in politics is crucial. However, the extensive research on this subject, comprehension of youth political engagement especially in Malaysia is remains insufficient (Ramli et al., 2023). Digital platforms, institutional frameworks, socioeconomic factors, youth activism, and traditional politics all exhibit these deficiencies (Ramli et al., 2023). There are lacks of significant portions of the literatures on youth political engagement highlights voting, party affiliation, and electoral campaigns (Aunn, 2022). Malaysian youth are increasingly utilizing social media, grassroots movements, and civil society organizations to participate in politics and digital platforms have amplified political discourse. However, their impact on political attitudes, civic education, and political participation remains largely unexplored (Salehan et al., 2024). Online activism has not been comprehensively examined in connection with offline political activities such as protests, policy advocacy, and voting (Salehan et al., 2024). The potential of digital engagement to either empower marginalized youth or reinforce inequalities as a catalyst for political change in Malaysia remains underexplored (Mohd Ramlan & Mohd Naeim, 2023). Most research on political engagement among Malaysian youth categorizes them as a uniform group and this viewpoint overlooks the distinct challenges faced by young women, rural youth, ethnic minorities, and individuals from low-income backgrounds.

Cultural and structural impediments to political engagement may impact youngsters in Malaysia, yet their experiences remain insufficiently examined while rural youth may also lack political education and digital resources, potentially impeding their political engagement (Shafiq, 2018). Limited research has investigated the impact of gender, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status on youth political engagement (Shafiq, 2018). Addressing this gap would enhance our comprehension of the challenges and opportunities faced by the youth demographic. Many studies investigate youth political engagement at particular moments; yet few monitor youth political attitudes and behaviors longitudinally (Shafiq, 2018). These studies are crucial for comprehending political engagement throughout various life stages and the impact of significant political events, such as elections and social movements, on participation. Following the 2018 Malaysian General Election (GE14), which resulted in a governmental transition, youth engagement surged. There is limited research regarding the persistence of this political engagement following GE14 or whether it was merely a singular occurrence (Aunn, 2022). Reforms such as reducing the voting age to 18 have been minimally studied regarding their impact on political awareness and engagement among youth (Shafiq, 2018). Civic education is essential for youth political engagement with the role of Malaysia's education system in fostering political awareness and engagement but there is a deficiency in research regarding civic education programs in schools and the accessibility of political information for young Malaysians (Salehan et al., 2024).

The developing connection between political education and digital literacy requires additional examination. Evaluating online content is essential as adolescents increasingly rely on social media for political information. The education system's preparation for Malaysian youth to confront digital misinformation, polarization, and echo chambers has not been adequately examined. The structures of political parties, legal constraints, and governmental policies significantly affect youth political engagement. Several studies have investigated these factors; however, few have explored the impact of institutional barriers on young Malaysians. The Universities and University Colleges Act (UUCA) has traditionally constrained student activism, yet the impact of recent reforms on youth political engagement remains largely unexplored. The function of political parties in youth engagement remains ambiguous. The youth wings of Malaysian political parties are frequently perceived as superficial and devoid of decision-making authority. To enhance youth engagement, political parties must assess methods for incorporating young leaders into their frameworks and strategies. The literature on youth political participation in Malaysia is informative, yet it does not comprehensively elucidate youth engagement. Future research should prioritize innovative participation methods, intersectionality, longitudinal studies, and an examination of educational and institutional barriers. Addressing these issues will enhance our comprehension of youth's political behavior and guide policies and strategies to empower young Malaysians as active and influential participants in democracy.

Methodology

The present study employs a quantitative research methodology with a cause-and-effect approach to ascertain the association between the variables. The data was obtained via a survey administered using a standardized questionnaire. The utilization of a cross-sectional sample survey enables the researcher to collect respondents from the public and conduct simultaneous comparisons of several variables. Subsequently, the research endeavors to examine the extent of youth engagement in political activities, thus restricting the sample exclusively to individuals classified as youth. The precise selection of the unit of analysis holds significant importance. Therefore, this study designates the juvenile population as the focal point of analysis in order to gather primary data from individual responses. According to Yusof (2018), individuals in Malaysia who fall between the age range of 15 and below 30 years old are commonly referred to as youths. Hence, the selection criteria for the sample size were defined as individuals between the ages of 15 and 30, employing the quota and purposive sampling methodology as the approach for distributing the questionnaire.

Researchers set subgroup quotas based on location, age, gender, or socioeconomic status in this method. This method ensures accurate subgroup representation in research. Quote sampling was used to select 500 participants from each Malaysian region (urban, suburban, and rural) to ensure equitable representation in this study on youth political engagement. It may proceed as planned. Identify target subgroups. Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Kuching and Kota Kinabalu are urban areas. Smaller towns like Alor Setar, Muar, Samarahan are suburban. Rural are the remote villages such as Kubang Kerian, Marang, Serian and Lahad Datu. The study acknowledges the perspectives of people from all three domains.Study participants are purposively chosen based on demographic and geographic factors that match study goals. Researchers may use age (18-30), education, or political awareness. Regional sampling methods vary. Metropolitan regions: Academic or institutional digital surveys and participation. Suburban areas: Community engagement or local organisation partnerships. In rural areas, conduct interviews or surveys at community centres or schools.

Based on quota and purposive sampling techniques, the sample of 1,500 respondents was chosen for the hypothesis and inferential testing. The distribution of participants in this research is as follows:

The operational definition employed in the analysis of youth involvement in politics is youth participation. One can engage in the aforementioned task by actively participating in party activities such as engaging in campaign efforts, attending political party meetings, or volunteering for political causes. Engaging in the electoral process serves as an additional illustration of the involvement of young individuals in political endeavors. Furthermore, peers play a crucial role in shaping the engagement of young individuals in political activities. One potential strategy for encouraging youth engagement in politics involves fostering discussions among young individuals regarding political matters and exerting an influence on their inclination to join in political activities. The primary objective is to ascertain whether any correlation exists that may impact political involvement via the process of political socialization. Yusof (2018) introduced a set of measurements for this predictor. Manson (2020) posits that peer influence plays a vital role in shaping the level of political engagement among young individuals. Given the likelihood of individuals spending a significant amount of time at home, it is plausible that peers may exert a considerable influence on this matter. Therefore, the utilization of Hoskins's measurement in the analysis of peer impact aligns with the purpose of this study.

Moreover, social media assumes a significant role in all domains. Both young individuals and adults alike dedicate a significant portion of their time to perusing political material on various social media platforms. Based on the findings of Steven et al. (2018), it has been observed that the typical Malaysian teenager dedicates approximately four hours of their time to engaging with social media platforms or the internet in order to access political information at both national and local levels. Hence, this measurement possesses the capability to ascertain the correlation between mass media and its impact on the level of youth engagement in political activities.

The present study incorporated and modified the items suggested by Yusof (2018), Manson (2020), and Steven et al. (2018), as documented in prior literature. Prior studies have demonstrated that the aforementioned items have met the necessary criteria for reliability and validity in assessing young engagement in political activities. Moreover, the suitability of the items for inferential analysis in order to evaluate the hypotheses has been established. So, the operational variables used in the quantitative analysis using the software for Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), Partial Least Squares (PLS), and Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) are thought to be valid and relevant to this study.

Results

Internal consistency, or reliability, was used to measure the Cronbach’s alpha. This test has a range between 0 and 1 (Field, 2017). It can be explained that the scale should be at least 0.7 to 0.6 in the Alpha coefficient. The scale showing the perfect reliability value is 1, 0.90-0.99 is considered excellent, 0.80- 0.89 is very good, 0.70-0.79 is good, 0.60-0.69 is acceptable, and 0.00-0.59 considered the worst, the statistical analysis for reliability and validity as shown in Table 1.

Table 1

Reliability Analysis (n;1500)

Note: No Items Deleted

Based on Table 1, the Cronbach’s alpha value for the dependent variable (Participation) =.80, Predictor 1 (Social Media) =.95, and Predictor 2 (Socialization) =0.87. Thus, they were considered excellent and reliable. Meanwhile, the Predictor 3 (Peer Influence) =0.85 is considered good and reliable.

Table 2

Normality Test (n:1500)

Table 2 shows the normality test statistic, proving that all variables tested in the study are normal because of the value of Skewness and Kurtosis within ±3 (Kline, 2020). Thus, the Parametric Test for measuring correlational and regression analysis is fit to be used in testing the hypotheses of this study.

Table 3

Model Convergent Validity Using Structural Equation Modelling: Partial Least Square.

a. Composite reliability = (square of the summation of the factor loadings)/ [(square of the summation of the factor loadings) + (square of the summation of the error variances) b. AVE = (summation of squared factor loadings)/ (summation of squared factor loadings) (summation of error variances)

To assess the measurement model of the study, two types of validity were examined, the first being convergent validity and the second being discriminant. Convergent validity of the measurement model is usually ascertained by examining the loadings, average variance extracted (AVE), and composite reliability (Gholami et al., 2013). The loadings were higher than 0.6, the composite reliabilities were higher than 0.7, and the AVE values were higher than 0.5, as suggested by Hair et al. (2014) (see Table 3)..

Table 4

Model Discriminant Validity Using Structural Equation Modelling: Partial Least Square

Recent criticism of the Fornell-Larcker (1981) criterion was reliably detecting the lack of discriminant validity in common research situations (Henseler et al., 2015). They have suggested an alternative approach, based on the multitrait-multimethod matrix, to assess discriminant validity: the heterotrait-monotrait ratio of correlations. Henseler et al. (2015) also demonstrated this method's superior performance through a Monte Carlo simulation study. There are two ways of using the HTMT to assess discriminant validity: (1) as a criterion or (2) as a statistical test. For the first one, if the HTMT value is greater than the HTMT.85 value of 0.85 (Kline, 2016), or the HTMT.90 value of 0.90 (Gold et al. 2001), then there is a problem of discriminant validity. The second criterion, according to Henseler et al. (2015), is to test the null hypothesis (H0: HTMT ≥ 1) against the alternative hypothesis (H1: HTMT < 1) and if the confidence interval contains the value one (i.e., H0 holds) this indicates a lack of discriminant validity. As shown in Table 4, all the values passed the HTMT.90 (Gold et al., 2001) and HTMT.85 (Kline, 2011).

Table 5

Profile of Respondents

N: 1500

The number of youths involved in this study is 1500, with the breakdown as stipulated in Table 5. Most respondents had aligned themselves to a political view (such as political parties, whether political parties represent government of the day or supporting the opposition parties). This analysis proved that the youth in the nation are literate about the current political environment through their involvement in political parties. Those who did not align themselves with any political party remained neutral, but they did evaluate the performance of political leaders in the nation.

Table 6

Youth Involvement In Political Party(n:1500)

Table 6 shows the breakdown of youth involvement in political parties based on ethnicity. Most Malay youth are actively involved in Perikatan Nasional political activities. In contrast, the Chinese and Indian youth prefer associating their political activities with Pakatan Harapan.

Table 7

Correlational analysis (n:1500)

*sig:p<.05

Pearson Correlational Analysis was used as the inferential statistic to test the hypotheses. Table 7 shows that all hypotheses for this study were accepted as there is a high positive significant relationship between Peer Influence (r=.72, p<.05), Social Media (r=.75, p<.05), Political Socialization (r=.82, p<.05) and youth participation in the political arena in Malaysia.

Table 8

Measure of Central Tendency (n:1500)

Low Level: 4.1-10, Medium: 10.1-16, High: 16.1-22

In measuring the objectives of the study, which are examining the level of political participation and analysing the hierarchy of predictors that influence youth to be involved in politics, a measure of central tendency statistic was used. Table 8 explains that the level of youth participation is generally high (M=3.92) on a scale of 1, which is low, and 4 is high. Other than that, political socialization has the highest impact on youth participation in the political arena (M=17, High Category=15.1-22). Social media is the second highest, while peer influence has a relatively low impact on political participation among youth. The statistic implies that political socialization and the youth's direct involvement in political activities, such as joining political parties, political campaigns, and public talks, are the main predictors in modelling youth participation in politics in Malaysia.

Table 9

Modelling By Structural Equation Modelling: Partial Least Square

Figure 1: Model of Youth Engagement in Politic using SEM: PLS

Based on Table 1, Peer influence (β=.278, p<.001), social media (β=.328, p<.001) and political socialization (β=.282, p<.001) were positively related to political participation. 

Thus H1, H2, H3 was supported in explaining youth involvement in politic in Malaysia. The R2 was .693, indicating that 69.3% of the variance in political participation can be explained by all the independent variables taken together. While Figure 1, is a proposed diagram for the youth in politics engagement with the verified predictors by Structual Equation Modelling: Partial Least Square.

Discussion

Peer influence has a large impact on youth political engagement and participation. This discussion examines the dynamics of peer influence on youth political engagement using recent research findings. Peer groups play an important role in shaping young people's political attitudes and behaviours, frequently outweighing the influence of family and educational institutions. According to research, peer discussions about politics can boost young people's political awareness and civic engagement. A study in Malaysia discovered that peer group discussions were positively correlated with increased political behaviour among youth, emphasising the importance of dialogue in promoting political engagement (Zainurin et al., 2024). Peer pressure is an important factor in shaping political behaviour. It can manifest in both positive and negative ways. Positive peer influence can encourage adolescents to participate in civic activities, whereas negative peer pressure can lead to withdrawal or the adoption of radical ideologies. Youth identity development is inextricably linked to peer interactions; to gain acceptance within social groups, they frequently conform their political beliefs to those of their peers (Crocetti et al. 2012).Thirteen. This alignment may result in a homogenisation of political beliefs among peer groups, potentially increasing democratic engagement or facilitating radicalisation, depending on the group's dominant attitudes. Participating in political discussions allows young people to express their views and gain a better understanding of civic issues. Such interactions are common in informal settings, but they can also be facilitated by social media platforms, which have become critical for spreading political information among youth (Nor et al., 2017). Peers create social norms that govern acceptable behaviour within their groups. Young people are more likely to conform to these norms, which can either promote active political participation or lead to apathy (Wan Husin et al., 2023). Peers serve as channels for the dissemination of information about political candidates, policies, and civic responsibilities. This dialogue is critical for increasing political awareness and encouraging youth to participate in electoral activities (Yaakub et al., 2023). Understanding how peers influence youth political behaviour has important implications for increasing civic engagement. Youth engagement efforts should make use of peer networks to disseminate information and promote civic discourse. Programs that facilitate structured dialogues among youth about critical social issues can boost their political awareness and willingness to participate (Nor et al., 2017). Furthermore, educational institutions can make an important contribution by fostering peer discussions about politics. Integrating civic education into curricula and encouraging collaborative projects that necessitate group decision-making can help schools develop informed and engaged citizens. Peer influence has a large impact on young people's political participation. Peers have a big influence on young people's political perceptions and engagement because they facilitate discussions, shape identities, and set social norms. Understanding these dynamics is critical for developing strategies to boost youth civic engagement and promote a more vibrant democratic society. Ongoing research reveals the complexities of peer interactions in political contexts, implying that leveraging this influence can boost youth participation in democratic processes (Zainurin et al., 2024).

Social media has emerged as a crucial forum for political engagement among Malaysian youth, especially after notable legal reforms such as the reduction of the voting age to 18. This transition has enabled a new generation of voters, rendering their participation in the political process more essential than ever. This discourse examines the impact of social media on political engagement among youth in Malaysia, emphasizing its advantages and constraints. Following the 2018 General Election (GE14), frequently referred to as the "social media election," Malaysian political parties have progressively employed social media platforms to engage younger voters. Both the ruling coalition and the opposition acknowledged the significance of interacting with young people using platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to convey information and galvanize support (Zainurin et al., 2024). The accessibility of social media facilitates swift information dissemination and interaction, rendering it a crucial instrument for political communication. Studies demonstrate that Malaysian youth engage with social media to obtain political knowledge. A study of university students revealed that, although many depend on social media for news, their engagement in online political discussions is restricted. For example, fewer than 40% of participants indicated that they tweeted about politics, and only a minor percentage interacted with political information on sites such as Instagram (Yaakub et al., 2023). This indicates that while social media functions as an information source, it does not inherently lead to active political discourse or engagement. Although social media has the potential to improve political knowledge, research has yielded inconsistent findings regarding its effect on actual voting behavior. Research indicates that overdependence on social media for political information may divert young individuals from their voting obligations instead of motivating them to engage (Wan Husin et al., 2023). This distraction may arise from the excessive volume of non-political content accessible online, resulting in disengagement from significant political matters. Social media significantly influences political socialization among Malaysian youth. It offers a venue for youth to articulate their perspectives and interact with peers regarding political issues. The efficacy of this participation is frequently affected by variables such as political knowledge and interest. Research suggests that although social media may augment political efficacy—an individual's conviction in their capacity to impact politics—it does not inherently boost general political knowledge among young people (Zainurin et al., 2024). Furthermore, the incentives for using social media for political purposes differ markedly among youth. Many individuals primarily use these channels for enjoyment or social engagement, rather than engaging with political content (Nor et al., 2017). This trend underscores a possible impediment to effective political engagement, as young individuals may prioritize nonpolitical pursuits over civic involvement. Despite the benefits of social media in fostering youth engagement, challenges still exist. The absence of control in digital environments might result in misinformation and cursory interaction with political material. Moreover, numerous young Malaysians demonstrate indifference toward conventional politics, perceiving it as irrelevant to their experiences (Crocetti et al., 2012). To tackle these difficulties, tailored programs are necessary to foster informed engagement among the young. Educational initiatives that prioritize the critical analysis of online material and promote active civic participation may improve the efficacy of social media as a mechanism for political engagement. Although social media possesses considerable potential to involve Malaysian youth in politics, its effects are complex. The correlation between social media utilization and tangible political engagement is intricate and shaped by multiple elements, such as usage incentives and degrees of political awareness. As Malaysia progresses through its democratic processes, comprehending these factors will be essential for cultivating a politically engaged and aware youth demographic.

In Malaysia, political socialization plays a significant role in shaping the political involvement of young people, especially in light of recent changes, such as the reduction of the voting age to 18 years old. This process encompasses the methods with which young people learn political ideals, beliefs, and behaviors. These elements are impacted by a variety of actors, such as their families, their peers, their educational institutions, and the media. By understanding how these aspects interact with each other, we can gain insights into the current state of youth political involvement in Malaysia. Family continues to be one of the most important factors in the political socialization of young people in Malaysia. Parents often teach fundamental political views and values to their children, which may have a substantial impact on the political attitudes that their children subsequently develop. The importance of peer networks cannot be overstated, particularly during the adolescent years, when young people look to their peers for approval and validation of their thoughts and feelings. Studies have shown that having conversations with one's contemporaries about political topics may both increase one's knowledge of political concerns and drive one to participate in civic life. Educational institutions are fundamentally important for enabling political socialization. Students have the opportunity to participate in political activities and debate at universities such as Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) and Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), which serve as forums for such activities. Students have been given the opportunity to participate in programs that attempt to improve their political literacy in order to cultivate informed citizenship. For instance, programs like youth parliament and political schools are designed to familiarize kids with the political process and urge them to take an active role in it. In spite of these many channels of interaction, there are still obstacles to overcome in terms of the level of political participation among young people in Malaysia. Despite the fact that there is a general interest in politics, the actual involvement levels are rather low, according to the Malaysian Youth Index (Ismail et al., 2024). This is a really alarming trend. Five factors contribute to this trend, including a lack of political maturity and literacy, which may reduce the effectiveness of involvement. According to Zainurin et al. (2024), a significant number of young people have a negative attitude toward conventional politics since they believe it is not relevant to their lives. a. 1. Inaddition, whereas social media platforms provide a venue for involvement, they also have the potential to result in interactions that are just superficial rather than participation that is significant. Young people may get disengaged from their civic responsibilities as a result of the overwhelming quantity of material that is accessible online, which may divert them from significant political concerns. In Malaysia, political socialisation is a multi-faceted process that has a considerable impact on the level of participation of young people in political processes. Young people's political attitudes and behaviors are shaped by a variety of factors, including their families, classmates, educational institutions, and the media. However, there is still a need for specific programs that will increase their active engagement in political processes. Malaysia has the ability to empower its young to become knowledgeable and active participants in the political process by cultivating surroundings that stimulate critical debates about politics and creating forums for involvement that are easily accessible. In order to cultivate a politically active generation that is capable of contributing to the growth of the country, it will be vital to have an awareness of these processes as the nation's political landscape continues to undergo transformation.

Conclusion

The involvement of adolescents in Malaysian politics has seen considerable change, particularly after the constitutional amendment that reduced the voting age to 18. This alteration not only broadened the electorate but also established a distinctive chance for youth to impact the political arena. The ramifications of this transition, along with its originality and recommendations for improving young political participation, are essential for cultivating a robust democracy in Malaysia. The reduction of the voting age has led to around 3.8 million additional voters aged 18 to 21, signifying a significant rise in political engagement. This demographic transition is anticipated to transform the dynamics of Malaysian politics, compelling political parties to address the interests and concerns of younger voters. The entrance of young people to politics may revitalize political debate, resulting in a broader range of perspectives and novel policy recommendations. Engaging youth in politics may enhance political literacy among young voters. Initiatives like Youth Parliament and Political Schools seek to educate young Malaysians about their civic rights and obligations. These efforts enhance understanding of political processes, empowering youngsters to become educated participants in democracy and cultivating a generation that is both cognisant of their civic responsibilities and adept at critically assessing political concerns. Despite these favorable consequences, problems persist. A significant number of young Malaysians exhibit dissatisfaction with conventional political institutions, seeing them as detached from their circumstances. This indifference may impede active engagement and diminish voting turnout. It is essential to address these issues to ensure that the excitement around new voting rights results in ongoing involvement. The current events in Malaysian politics signify a substantial transition toward inclusion. The formation of youth-centric political parties, such as the Malaysian United Democratic Alliance (MUDA), illustrates this tendency. These parties seek to provide platforms that ensure the representation and amplification of youthful voices throughout all tiers of administration, beyond only the youth divisions of bigger parties. This approach signifies an increasing acknowledgement that young people need to be actively involved in formulating policies that impact their futures.

Moreover, social media has become a potent instrument for engaging adolescents. Platforms such as Facebook and Twitter facilitate the expression of viewpoints among youth, the mobilization of support for various causes, and direct interactions with political actors. The internet environment enhances accessibility and immediacy in political debate, facilitating active participation among young people. To capitalize on the momentum created by recent changes, it is imperative that educational institutions establish extensive political education programs. These programs have to concentrate on augmenting critical thinking abilities and imparting practical information about the political process, government, and civic duties. Involving youth via interactive workshops, debates, and simulations may explain politics and promote active engagement. Enhancing young representation in decision-making entities is essential. Appointing younger persons to leadership roles in political parties and administration helps assure the sufficient representation of young voters' opinions. Furthermore, establishing venues like Youth Parliament at the local level can give young people the chance to directly express their issues to politicians. Political parties have to carefully use social media to reach young voters. Developing campaigns that align with the concerns of youth such as climate change, educational reform, and employment opportunities can cultivate a feeling of connection between politicians and younger constituencies. Moreover, fostering online discourse about policy matters might incite interest and inspire adolescents to engage actively in the political process. The involvement of Malaysian youth in politics offers both prospects and obstacles. The latest constitutional amendments have facilitated more involvement, augmenting political knowledge among youthful voters. Addressing concerns of disengagement and indifference is essential for maintaining this involvement. Through the promotion of educational programs, the enhancement of young representation, and the efficient use of social media, Malaysia can develop a politically engaged generation capable of influencing its democratic destiny. As the country progresses, acknowledging the significance of young engagement will be crucial for cultivating a more inclusive and dynamic political environment.

Acknowledgments

Praise Allah SWT for His showers of blessings throughout the writing of this paper. I want to express our gratitude to my institutions, the Faculty of Administrative Science and Policy Studies, UiTM, Malaysia International Studies Association (MyISA), Malaysian Election Commission (SPR) and all related parties directly and indirectly involved in completing this research.

Funding Details

Any financial or related institutions did not support this work.

Authors Contributions

The authors contributed solely by doing data analysis and writing the manuscript.

Conflict of Interest

There is no conflict of interest associated with this publication.

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