NAJIB Razak’s regular use of social media and frequent public appearances are designed to amass support ahead of the first of his many criminal trials which starts next week, said political observers.

They also said Najib was using his social media to leverage the pushback against Pakatan Harapan over its failed promises.

“It’s probably a combination of wanting to stay in control of the narrative in the pushback against PH as well as building up support among his fans before the trial begins,” Merdeka Centre executive director Ibrahim Suffian told The Malaysian Insight.

“He’s decided to leverage his large social media base and to mobilise them on issues related to shortfalls in PH’s delivery.”

Najib will face trial for harges related to 1Malaysia Development Bhd’s(1MDB) former subsidiary, SRC International Sdn Bhd, which is fixed for February 12-28.

To date, Najib has been slapped with 42 charges related to 1MDB, including for money-laundering, corruption and abuse of power, that could lead to years of imprisonment.

However the former prime minister has been on a charm offensive, holding public meetings and even campaigning for Barisan Nasional in the Cameron Highlands by-election.

The former BN chairman and Umno president just ended his tour of Langkawi, the stronghold of his rival and current prime minister, Dr Mahathir Mohamad.

Najib now goes about holding talks with people on the street. He sits down for drinks and light meals at stalls, and never fails to pose for selfies.

At the same time, he updates his social media with stinging comments against the PH government, usually laced with sarcasm and humour.

He has even coined the slogan “Malu apa bossku” (What’s there to be ashamed of, boss). At some functions, Najib told reporters that Malaysians “miss his leadership”.

Political analysts agree that Najib’s tirade against PH’s failure to fulfil some of its election promises, especially on issues such as cost of living and prices of goods, has been well received by Malaysians who have found resonance with these bread and butter issues.

Political analyst Khoo Kay Peng said Najib seems to know how to fuel people’s growing frustration with PH’s inability to fulfil its promises on cost of living and addressing the socio-economic issues.

“He is obviously a street smart politician who is capable of capitalising on his new found popularity online.

“However, the verdict is still out there if the people, especially Malays, are longing for his comeback,” he said. – February 6, 2019.