Why are Miri candidates shifting to social media for campaigns?

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Candidates are Shifting to Social Media Due to Covid-19 Campaign Restrictions

Miri candidates are increasingly utilising social media platforms for their election campaigns as a direct consequence of the standard operating procedures (SOPs) implemented by the Election Commission, which prohibit physical campaigning during the 12th State Election. This shift is particularly noticeable in urban constituencies where the usual pre-Covid election fervor is subdued due to these restrictions. Consequently, political parties and their candidates are leveraging live broadcasts and online interactions to disseminate their views, manifestos, and engage with supporters.
Restrictions on Physical Campaigning

The prevailing Covid-19 pandemic has necessitated the imposition of strict standard operating procedures by the Election Commission. These guidelines explicitly forbid traditional forms of physical campaigning, such as large gatherings and door-to-door outreach. This has significantly altered the landscape of electioneering, particularly in urban areas like Miri, where the usual high levels of public engagement through physical means are no longer feasible.
Social Media as an Alternative Platform

In response to the limitations on physical campaigning, candidates across various political parties, including Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP), Democratic Action Party (DAP), Parti Sarawak Bersatu (PSB), Parti Bumi Kenyalang (PBK), and Sarawak People’s Aspiration Party (Aspirasi), have turned to social media. These platforms, primarily Facebook, are being used for daily live broadcasts where candidates share their political ideologies and manifestos. This digital approach allows for direct communication and interaction with voters, a vital component of any election campaign.
Direct Engagement and Reach Through Live Broadcasts

Candidates are finding social media, especially live broadcasts, to be an effective method for reaching constituents while adhering to social distancing requirements. Datuk Sebastian Ting, the incumbent for Piasau, described this as the most ideal way to connect with people, allowing him to convey his messages and simultaneously read comments from viewers. This two-way interaction, experienced by Ting for the first time in his political career, is viewed as a proactive strategy to maintain engagement and gather feedback from the electorate. His Facebook page, for instance, saw an increase in followers from approximately 13,000 to over 15,000 during the campaign period.

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Why are Miri candidates shifting to social media for campaigns?

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