PETALING JAYA: With major coalitions announcing their manifestos and candidates releasing their campaign pitches in what seems to be a close race in the national polls, political observers have warned them not to resort to mudslinging and negative campaigns during the crucial two-week stretch until the end of polling day.
Politicians from across the divide have also pledged to run a clean campaign when they hit the ground to meet the voters.
Observers predict concerns like improving the economy, tackling mounting inflation, and bread-and-butter issues will dominate the campaign period.
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Even Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob has said that he has chosen a laid-back and harmonious approach as his campaign strategy and will not be making personal attacks on his opponents.
Universiti Teknologi Mara School of Media and Information Warfare Studies’ security and political analyst Dr Noor Nirwandy Mat Noordin said some candidates could run negative campaigns but warned that it would not be good for the country.
“Instead of resorting to character assassination, candidates should focus on how their manifestos can be implemented in their constituencies and benefit the voters,” he said when contacted yesterday.
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He said candidates must also be able to explain in detail how they could contribute to the people and move away from negative politics.
“They must have the ability to move beyond talking about rhetoric. Share with voters how they can bring progress, especially to fence-sitters and young voters,” he added.
Barisan Nasional is scheduled to unveil its manifesto today, while Perikatan Nasional and Pakatan Harapan announced their election manifestos on Nov 6 and Nov 2, respectively.
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Ampang Barisan candidate Ivone Low Yi Wen said she did not agree with negative campaigning or attacks on people’s character.
“We should always promote positive competition. Our voters, especially the young voters, would want to know how youth empowerment can be done.
“These should be our main focus,” said the Wanita MCA spokesperson and Beliawanis bureau chief.
Tenggara Barisan candidate Manndzri Nasib, 42, also agreed that those who run negative campaigns do not have a clear plan and vision for their constituents.
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“Some only want to win the elections and will resort to anything to achieve their aim.
“But the people now know better and will pick the candidates that can provide a clear roadmap for them,” he added.
“For Johor Barisan, we have a clear plan, and Insyallah (God willing), we will fulfil our promises as seen in the Johor state elections, where within six months, investment in Johor has increased to about RM60bil and has been ranked among the highest in the country,” he said.
Pasir Gudang Pakatan candidate Hassan Abdul Karim said that as a candidate, they must always emphasise the interests of the next generation.
“We cannot destroy our nation and society for our narrow political objectives, which can be destructive to the people and unity.
“I will always advocate conducting a professional and clean campaign, which will help bring about good governance,” he noted.
Senior fellow at the Singapore Institute of International Affairs Dr Oh Ei Sun said among the main issues that would come up in the week ahead were socio-economic issues, such as tackling inflation, managing the economy and addressing food shortages.
“However, there would still be a fair amount of mudslinging over the next two weeks, with candidates digging out each other’s perhaps not-so-glorious past,” he said.
National Professors Council senior fellow Dr Jeniri Amir said the Opposition, especially Pakatan, would mainly raise the issue of the high cost of living as there were no other major political issues, such as 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB), that could affect the perception of voters.
“They will stick to that as it is hard to raise other issues that can resonate well with voters,” he said.
He also warned candidates to avoid touching on sensitive issues, such as religion and race, in their campaigns.
“These are potentially provocative topics that must be completely avoided,” he said.
Kangar Pakatan candidate Noor Amin Ahmad said candidates must adhere to international standards on election rules and regulations.
“Professional and clean campaigns usually stem from good values, rules and regulations.
“So, it goes without saying that a professional and clean campaign is a sign of a civilised society,” he said.
