KOTA KINABALU: Leaders must adapt to the new trend of ‘Microphone Politics’ even if their on-the-ground efforts continue, stated Former Communications and Multimedia Minister Datuk Seri Dr Salleh Said Keruak.
“If leaders fail to embrace this method, they risk being perceived as outdated.
“In the end, it comes down to how they approach it. When used to communicate policies transparently, it holds value. However, if it’s merely for show and public relations, it becomes hollow noise,” he mentioned in a Facebook post.
Salleh noted that many political figures now wear small microphones attached to their clothing.
“This trend is fueled by platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook, which demand clear sound and quick recordings.
“The advantages include easier message delivery. The audio is clearer, allowing the public to hear directly without depending on traditional media. It fosters a sense of connection with the audience,” he explained.
Nonetheless, Salleh pointed out that there are limitations to this method.
“When everything is recorded, communication can seem staged. Leaders may speak for the camera instead of naturally.
“The ‘like’ culture supports this trend. What counts is not the depth of the content, but the number of views and reactions it receives. Politics is shifting towards content creation,” he added.
In this light, he remarked that clear audio does not equate to substantial content.
“A strong social media presence does not necessarily indicate real effectiveness, which should be evaluated based on results,” he said.
