Experts weigh in on election strategies
SHAH ALAM - Some view it as a populist tactic to secure votes, while others consider it an unethical move that fosters hatred rather than addressing genuine issues, explained an expert.
According to International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) Political Science Association Professor Dr Syaza Shukri, it is undoubtedly a populist tactic aimed at frightening people by labeling certain actions as wrong and sinful.
"It is the easiest way to garner votes when people look up to politicians.
"Will it work? Unfortunately, yes, it will work because Malaysians are now easily influenced by such statements, even if Muftis from different states have spoken out against them," Syaza told Sinar Daily today.
Hence, people tend to believe what they want to hear from a politician they admire, often without much thought," she continued.
Meanwhile, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) deputy director Institute of Ethnic Studies (KITA), Professor Dr Kartini Aboo Talib believes that the political campaign employs various strategies, including attacking a person's character.
"While this may not violate any natural laws in a race to convince voters, it remains unethical to fabricate information at the expense of others. It's slander; it's done in bad faith.
"Politicians must cease sowing the seeds of hatred against each other," Kartini said.
Instead, they should compete professionally to convince voters about real problems and difficulties.
They should address these issues firmly and boldly, she added.
