IMAN Research Publishes “Orang Kita” Study On Malay Youth

After almost two years of fieldwork, IMAN Research has released its Orang Kita study, exploring the political views and aspirations of Malay youths.

The study challenges the idea that the “Green Wave” of support for Perikatan Nasional (PN) in GE15 was driven solely by ideology. According to political analyst Bridget Welsh, 37% of Malay voters under 30 supported PN. IMAN’s research, conducted in the Northern and East Coast states, found that many young Malays felt excluded from the democratic system, were disillusioned with political elites, anxious about financial insecurity, and motivated by hopes to see their communities thrive.

Since publication, the report has drawn attention to how public discourse often falls back on stereotypes about Malay youths. IMAN highlights this as a sign of entrenched perceptions that prevent empathy and open dialogue between communities.

Looking ahead, IMAN Research will expand its focus to Chinese and Indian youths, two groups it says remain understudied but are vital to Malaysia’s nation-building.

The study was supported by advisors and researchers including Dr. Al-Adib Samuri, and made possible through the voices of Malay youths across the country who shared their perspectives and hopes for a better collective future.

Read the research here