Rafizi still under the microscope post-Sungai Bakap, lacks self-awareness and condescending behaviour
PKR machinery unprepared for Rafizi's controversial remarks, says Shahril
SHAH ALAM - Former Umno information chief Shahril Hamdan has slammed PKR Deputy President Rafizi Ramli for his perceived lack of self-awareness and condescending behaviour during his recent remarks on the final day of campaigning for the Sungai Bakap by-election on July 5.
In his podcast "Keluar Sekejap," hosted with former youth and sports minister Khairy Jamaluddin and guest former deputy minister Ong Kian Ming, Shahril said that the PKR machinery likely did not anticipate Rafizi speaking in such a manner.
“Had they (PKR) known, they might not have encouraged his public engagement.
“However, it appears the team promoting the 'foolish and stupid formula' video is Rafizi's own team, indicating a possible lack of self-awareness within his team.
"As for PKR, I am not certain,” he said.
Ong added that he has been closely following Rafizi's schedule.
“After his (Rafizi) return from the World Economic Forum in Dalian, I noticed how packed his itinerary was.
"During interviews and talks, some of his remarks could be considered offensive.
"For instance, when asked about his Bloomberg interview, he suggested that the Opposition might not understand English,” Ong said.
Ong also noted that in Rafizi’s speeches, he frequently seemed to criticise and adopt a condescending tone towards others, implying, "You do not understand because you're not as intelligent as me."
Shahril also acknowledged that being in government and politics puts you under a harsh spotlight, revealing both the good and bad aspects of your personality.
“This is the challenge of being a politician today; you will be exposed.
"Maybe when you are in the Opposition, certain traits go unnoticed, but in government, any shortcomings are laid bare.
"So in this case, it comes back to the word of the day, I guess, self-awareness. If you are self-aware, it is not too late to make improvements.
"But if you believe you are always right and dismiss any criticism, things will only get worse.
"You think you are an island, then if that is the case, whether you are a Cabinet minister or a politician, I think you will be doomed to failure,” he added.
Recently, Rafizi faced repercussions following the Sungai Bakap by-election defeat, specifically for his derogatory remarks towards a critic questioning his strategies.
During a campaign speech on July 5, Rafizi responded sharply, labelling the critic as "bahlol" (moron) and "bodoh" (idiot) for asking about his winning formula.
His comments, aimed at dismissing questions about his electoral strategies, drew attention and criticism after the election results did not favour PKR.
