Why are GE15 campaigns in Terengganu and Melaka experiencing lukewarm atmospheres?

Question

Accepted Answer

Factors Contributing to Lukewarm GE15 Campaign Atmospheres in Terengganu and Melaka

Campaigning for the 15th General Election (GE15) in Terengganu and Melaka has been characterised by a subdued atmosphere, a departure from the traditionally vibrant political rallies. This lukewarm reception can be attributed to a confluence of factors, including a shift in campaign strategies towards digital platforms and a deliberate choice by parties to field a new generation of candidates, thereby altering the traditional dynamics of electioneering.
Declining Attendance at Traditional Ceramah Events

The customary ceramah, once a cornerstone of Malaysian election campaigns, particularly in Terengganu, is now struggling to draw crowds. Evidence suggests a significant drop in participation, with one recent event for the Kuala Nerus parliamentary seat attracting only 20 attendees. This decline contrasts sharply with past elections where such gatherings, especially those featuring prominent political figures, were known for their substantial turnouts. Party officials have noted a considerable decrease in the number of people attending these political talks.
Increased Reliance on Social Media Platforms

A key reason for the diminished appeal of traditional ceramah is the growing adoption of social media for political campaigning. Candidates in Terengganu are increasingly leveraging platforms such as Facebook and TikTok to connect with voters. PAS president, Abdul Hadi Awang, has acknowledged that these digital spaces are perceived as being more accessible to the electorate. Politicians are utilising these platforms to share official statements, live-stream lectures, and post advice, as exemplified by Abdul Hadi's own Facebook page. Similarly, Barisan Nasional (BN) candidate Datuk Mohd Zubir Embong engages directly with constituents through sessions like "Sek Awok Tanye, Cikgu Jawab" on social media.
Absence of "Heavyweight" Candidates and New Faces in Melaka

In Melaka, the campaign's subdued nature is partly due to the strategic decision by political parties to field a majority of new candidates for GE15, leading to a scarcity of well-known "heavyweight" figures. This shift presents a challenge for media practitioners, who find fewer prominent personalities to focus on for news coverage, as major national issues are not being intensely debated at the state level through these candidates. Consequently, BN in Melaka has opted for smaller group talks targeted at specific polling district centers (PDM) rather than large-scale rallies led by national leaders. The presence of caretaker prime minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob during a walkabout in a Parti Amanah Negara stronghold did, however, generate a slight increase in campaign activity.

Reading history

Hide →

This history is cleared when the page is closed.

Why are GE15 campaigns in Terengganu and Melaka experiencing lukewarm atmospheres?

Loading

Was this article helpful?

Helpful

Not helpful

Report an issue

1

0

0

Share with friends