Deputy minister laments politicians can no longer 'talk nonsense'

Apart from changing many aspects of life, the internet has also changed the political landscape.

Titiwangsa MP Johari Abdul Ghani pointed out how politicians today can no longer merapu (talk nonsense).

“Sometimes, the reporters aren't even around, but suddenly it’s out on YouTube. We don't even know who (took the footage),” he said.

“Politicians, too, have to change. They can no longer talk nonsense. Because with the internet, the whole of Malaysia can know what we had talked about,” he said.

The deputy finance minister was speaking at the opening of the 1Malaysia internet centre in Kampung Baru today, the third of its kind in the Titiwangsa constituency.

Johari however said one was free to talk nonsense if one wants to be popular.

“But here, if it goes viral for more than three days, your character is finished,” he added.

No chance to defend

The deputy minister also lamented that one does not have the chance to defend oneself with the advent of the internet.

“Sometimes we speak for half an hour, but they only take two minutes (from the speech) and then make it viral.

“Maybe we were giving an example, but without watching the entire 30-minute speech, people have formed an opinion.

“And when we clarify, they are not interested to watch it because our explanation is long,” he added.

Admitting the internet has many benefits, Johari said people, however, have to change their approach to technology.

While Johari did not mention any names, several politicians have landed themselves in hot water after their remarks were reported and had gone viral.

The politicians often defend themselves claiming their words had been taken out of context or blaming the media for "spinning". -mkini