Unverified social media claims can put elected reps in difficult spot, says deputy minister
KUCHING (Aug 28): Unverified claims circulating on social media can put elected representatives in a difficult position, particularly when the public is presented with a simplified version of how government projects are implemented. Semop assemblyman Datuk Abdullah Saidol said he had recently found himself at the centre of such criticism, after claims went viral alleging [...] The post Unverified…
Social media rumors can place elected officials in challenging circumstances, especially when simplified accounts of government project implementation are shared, says Sarawak Deputy Minister Datuk Abdullah Saidol. At the Ukas Making Connections 2026 workshop, he emphasized that securing funding and overseeing project execution involve multiple agencies, and representatives are not directly engaged in construction work.
He faced criticism for three mosques in his constituency not being completed quickly, but clarified that he had been actively pursuing funding and the projects were managed by various agencies, not him. Abdullah stressed the significance of maintaining composure while dealing with social media scrutiny, urging representatives not to assign blame to others.
He also acknowledged the crucial role of public relations officers in helping leaders navigate crises and convey accurate information about project implementation to constituents.
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