Big data makes heroes of thieves, says Dr Mahathir

Updated 3 years ago · Published on 8 Jun 2020 2:46PM · 3 Comments

Former prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad says big data is being used like traditional ‘pukau’ charms, so that even bad politicians can drum up support. – The Malaysian Insight file pic, June 8, 2020.

EVEN thieves can be heroes by using analysis provided by big data, said former prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad.

In a blog post today, Dr Mahathir said big data was like the traditional charms or “pukau”.

“The charms today are used by understanding people’s likes and dislikes,” Dr Mahathir said.

“The modern charm is based on science and psychology. Detailed information can be obtained through big data so that their interests can be known.”

He said companies used big data to market their products, to understand consumers and to plan their campaigns.

“This is done until consumers buy things that they do not need because they are influenced by the advertisements.

“These days, big data is used in a way that even bad (political) candidates can get support and obtain victory.

“Their campaigns are also based on big data that enables thieves to be worshiped and supported because the public can be made to forget what they have done,” said the Langkawi MP.

As such, he said, such big data analysts are very expensive.

“Only the rich can afford them, but the wealthy are willing to pay for such analysts.

“Through this, even thieves can become heroes to be worshipped,” said the 94-year-old. – June 8, 2020.

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Comments

  • Dr M, so whatever u can to save the country. The new govt has serious credibility deficit to march the country forward. We know u r not a simple person, very difficult to anticipate or predict your action and purpose. For goodness sake, don't let the thieves and associates run the country again.

    Posted 3 years ago by James Wong · Reply

  • Anwar has no guts to speak like you Tun so get your 'guns' turned on to get back the power which was robbed from your premiership.

    Posted 3 years ago by Swaminaidu Venkatasamy · Reply

  • Better to contribute ideas instead of commenting and arguing all the time. Agong wants to unite country so ALL shud support. 94yrs old shud give others a chance afterall he already so rich including his children so just sit back and contribute ideas

    Posted 3 years ago by Jos Koh · Reply