Zahid Urges UMNO to Seize Digital Narrative, Counter Opponents' Dominance

In a compelling address at the "Digital Era Politics Seminar" held in conjunction with the UMNO General Assembly, UMNO President Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahi...

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Zahid Urges UMNO to Seize Digital Narrative, Counter Opponents' Dominance
In a compelling address at the "Digital Era Politics Seminar" held in conjunction with the UMNO General Assembly, UMNO President Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi emphasized the critical need for the party to proactively shape public discourse in the digital age. Speaking in Kuala Lumpur on the 14th, Zahid warned that remaining passive in the face of political adversaries' online dominance would only cede control of the narrative, urging UMNO to adopt a more assertive stance to counter misinformation and cyber-attacks. Zahid articulated that the contemporary political landscape has undergone a profound transformation, where social media platforms wield immense power to influence electoral outcomes. He highlighted that viral content and digital campaigns can decisively sway public opinion, making it imperative for UMNO to understand and leverage the mechanics of viral propagation. "The best defense is a good offense," Zahid stated, underscoring that inaction or delayed responses to online assaults only embolden opponents. He pointed out that UMNO's current predicament often stems from a lack of proactive engagement, even when under sustained attack, which allows false narratives to proliferate unchecked. The UMNO leader called for a strategic overhaul in how the party communicates and defends its positions online. He stressed that leaders must be equipped to respond swiftly and effectively to disinformation, ensuring that accurate information reaches the public before falsehoods take root. Zahid acknowledged the challenges posed by the rapid spread of targeted attacks against party figures, noting that such campaigns can erode trust and undermine political stability. To combat this, he advocated for a coordinated approach that combines digital literacy with robust counter-messaging, enabling UMNO to not only defend its reputation but also to set the agenda in political debates. Zahid's remarks reflect a broader recognition within UMNO of the necessity to adapt to evolving technological trends. As digital platforms become central to political engagement, the ability to craft compelling narratives and engage with diverse audiences online is no longer optional but essential for survival and relevance. The seminar served as a platform to discuss strategies for enhancing UMNO's digital presence, including training leaders in digital communication tools and fostering a culture of innovation in political outreach. In conclusion, Zahid's call to action signals a pivotal moment for UMNO as it seeks to reclaim its voice in Malaysia's dynamic political arena. By embracing a proactive digital strategy, the party aims to strengthen its resilience against external pressures and reassert its influence in shaping national discourse. This move underscores the growing importance of digital agility in modern politics, where controlling the narrative is synonymous with political power.

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