JANUARY 30 ― The psyche of many Malaysian voters as demonstrated in the general elections seems to be "better the devil you know than the angel you don’t.”

This is why a change in government seems impossible as people prefer to choose the safer option like an old family car ― tried and tested, in need of repair but still has good mileage on it.

However, as the last two elections have shown, familiarity may breed contempt since the popular vote was not in favour of the incumbent, who have to thank an electoral system that favours number of seats won in Parliament or the State Assembly instead of number of ballots cast.

Now, probably betting on Malaysian voters' knack of picking the familiar, both sides are offering known leadership options ― the present prime minister whose administration prioritises the most vulnerable of citizens; and his mentor, a past premier who is credited with corporatising Malaysia and landing the label of a rising Asian Tiger.

Both options are extremely well known to voters who may have an easier time at the voting booth since voters are well acquainted with both gentlemen’s resumes and track record.

However, there is a group of disenfranchised and disappointed youths who feel neither are good options and have campaigned for voters to send a protest message to the political parties and their leaders ― through spoilt votes.

It is not about not showing up to vote at all, because a spoilt ballot paper is what counts as a protest vote, not an absent voter.

I have been acquainted with some of the individuals behind #UndiRosak and contrary to critics who label them as "morons” and "idiots” I must say they are in fact, a bunch of intelligent, well-read and well-informed youngsters who are as passionate about this country’s future as those of us who have decided to cast our ballot on polling day.

Some of the harsh words used against them are unwarranted and are endemic of political parties and politicians who have this "if you’re not with us you’re against us” mentality. Trust me. I have the law suits to prove it.

So instead of showing how childish they are by resorting to name-calling, these politicians and their supporters should be instead listening to these youngsters and trying to figure out what their beef is and why would they they want to exercise their democratic right despite the lack of choices and this fallible system of ours.

These young Malaysians would probably lament that both sides comprise parties and leaders who are perceived to have used the law and government institutions to their advantage; they would criticise the lack of transparency and accountability demonstrated by both parties at the federal and state levels; they would chide the fact that younger leaders within the party are not given the chance to shine and wonder about the future of a country with leaders pushing 70 and seven years shy of 100.

These "vote spoilers” would reveal their frustrations at an opposition that cannot even put up a shadow Cabinet; and an incumbent federal leadership that still rewards loyalty not capability.

In effect the message that #UndiRosak is trying to send is that we Malaysians deserve better from those who want to lead us. Political parties must put forth their best, and not expect the people to just settle for mediocrity and compromises.

They need to walk the talk and not back-paddle for the sake of political expediency or special interests ― especially when they have won constituencies and states on their word and manifesto during the campaign trail.

But then to the #UndiRosak folks, I must say, unfortunately we do not live in a perfect world. Sometimes you need to play the hand that’s been dealt to you.

Imagine if you’re on a long flight and your choice of meal is either the roast chicken on mash potatoes or the infamous nasi lemak telanjang? Both are not very appealing, as for the price you paid for your ticket you feel you deserve a filet mignon.

You can decide it’s "filet mignon or bust”, and spend the rest of the flight hungry and angry or you can choose to have the chicken or the fish and eat your meal between sulks. But then you realise that while the potatoes are mushy, the chicken is actually not half as bad or while the rice may not be anything to write home about, the sambal is among the best you’ve had.

So, those intending to be spoilers, should probably do a little bit of research on the choices at hand, study their manifesto and look at their track record.

Then consider the pros and cons of voting one over the other. More often than not there will be something to tip the scales, even slightly, in favour of one side.

Perhaps you don’t agree with the party but the candidate is a stand-up person.  For example, I have been in that situation. The constituency where I vote is represented at Parliament and state levels by two parties that I do not care much for. Fortunately, both parties are represented by good, decent folks who have championed transparency, good governance and free and fair elections at the Dewan Undangan Negeri and Dewan Rakat respectively. They are also ever present in their constituencies where we see them regularly, not just during election season.

So, these two wakil rakyat would probably still get my vote this year because they have proven that they fight for their constituents ― although I do wish they could join a party that is not led by hypocrites and megalomaniacs.

* This is the personal opinion of the columnist.