Melaka polls: Pakatan takes politics to coffee shops with Gen Z-focused ‘Kopilih Harapan’ initiative

Pakatan Harapan (PH) is adopting a new approach to engage young people, particularly Generation Z, through its ‘Kopilih Harapan’ programme, which provides an informal platform for political leaders and members of the public to discuss current issues and aspirations. — Bernama pic

First Published: Tuesday, 10 Nov 2026 4:23 PM MYT

MELAKA, Nov 10 — Pakatan Harapan (PH) is adopting a new approach to engage young people, particularly Generation Z, through its ‘Kopilih Harapan’ programme, which provides an informal platform for political leaders and members of the public to discuss current issues and aspirations.

PH Election Department (JPPH) Media Unit head Jonathan Vela said the programme aims to foster more open and inclusive two-way communication, moving away from conventional political ceramah.

He said the coffee shop-themed initiative allows young people to raise questions, share their views and seek clarification directly from PH leaders and candidates.

“We want to provide them with a platform to discuss and exchange views, rather than simply listen to political speeches. It also gives them an opportunity to get to know their leaders and understand politics better,” he told a press conference at the PH Main Operations Room in Bukit Piatu here today.

Jonathan said the programme would feature Lembah Jaya assemblyman Syed Ahmad Syed Abdul Rahman Al-Hadad, better known as Altimet, Bentong Member of Parliament Young Syefura Othman, Hang Tuah Jaya MP Adam Adli Abd Halim and several other PH leaders.

He said Kopilih Harapan would visit several locations frequented by young people across the state during the 16th Melaka state election campaign, in collaboration with local coffee shops, while also supporting small-scale entrepreneurs and the local coffee industry.

Meanwhile, Altimet, who is also the Kopilih Harapan ambassador, said the initiative took into account changing media consumption habits among younger generations, who were increasingly accustomed to interactive communication rather than one-way information delivery.

“Based on my experience, engaging with them through a forum that is not in the form of a political speech but rather a dialogue session is more effective.

“We also give them the opportunity to decide what they want to discuss. When we share the direction of the session with them, young people feel that they are part of the programme,” said the former rapper.

Altimet said the approach should be expanded beyond PH, including among Members of Parliament and state assemblymen, to engage the public, particularly young voters.

Polling is set for Nov 14. For the latest updates on the 16th Melaka state election, visit https://election.bernama.com/prn/melaka/2026/. — Bernama