Commentary: As Malaysia’s politicians age, concerns grow over leadership renewal

WHAT’S AT STAKE?

The problem is not that older leaders are incapable of governing effectively. It is that they risk concentrating power among ageing elites, leaving younger generations sidelined and underrepresented in decision-making.

Today’s world is rapidly changing and shaped by technological advancements such as artificial intelligence and evolving social norms. Older leaders, shaped by a different era, often struggle to reconcile with these transformations, whether they involve technology, gender, identity or equity.

Additionally, as leaders age, health limitations and mental health risks become more pressing, raising questions about their ability to lead effectively in increasingly complex times. The US has already seen concerns over Mr Biden’s health, while in Malaysia, Mr Mahathir – who is still active in politics – has been hospitalised numerous times in recent years.

The issue, then, is not merely one about age but also ensuring leadership reflects the realities of the world it aims to govern. 

Is there a way forward?

The first step is to challenge the assumptions that underpin gerontocracy. Age should not be the sole criterion for leadership; competence, vision and the ability to connect with diverse constituencies are equally important.

Political systems must also create pathways for younger leaders to ascend to positions of power, not as proteges to be sidelined, but as equals capable of shaping the future.

Term limits too should be sacrosanct, so that power is not concentrated indefinitely in the hands of one person.

The case for generational renewal in politics is not merely about replacing old leaders with young ones; it is about reimagining leadership itself.

Malaysia does not lack young, capable leaders. What it lacks is a system and a political culture that allows them to thrive. Until that changes, the country will remain stuck in a loop of the same ageing leaders rehashing the same debates and power struggles that have dominated its politics for decades.

Dr Sophie Lemiere is a political anthropologist who specialises in Malaysian and Southeast Asian politics, and has held research and teaching positions in major universities across Europe, the United States and Southeast Asia. She is currently Adjunct Fellow at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, a Washington-based think tank, as well as Research Fellow at College de France in Paris.