'Sanusi wave' sweeps social media after sedition charges

Kedah Menteri Besar Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor is making waves on social media in what has been dubbed "the Sanusi phenomenon" after the sedition charges brought against him over remarks made in a political speech. 

Many hailed Sanusi as a hero for facing the risk of legal action in speaking on political ideas ahead of the elections to be held in six states next month. 

Upon his return to Kedah after his court appearance, he was reportedly welcomed at the airport by hundreds of supporters in addition to his wife and close friends. 

And while he was accused of touching on sensitive issues involving the royal institution, his supporters remained firmly behind him despite the general unease within the Malay community when such matters are raised by politicians. 

Some said that the outspoken politician had merely been careless in choosing his words. 

"He did not realise he was being careless while speaking," Facebook user Mohd Hamzah said in the comment section of news site Astro Awani. 

"This challenge will only make him politically stronger." 

User Ahmad Nur Zahid described Sanusi as "the general of Kedah", saying the menteri besar had never belittled his people, and comparing the situation in the state with that of other developed states. 
 
Veteran journalist and writer Syahril A Kadir meanwhile attributed Sanusi's reception online to his ability to create a narrative of bringing Kedah out of poverty and to kindle a spirit of patriotism among its people. 

He said Sanusi's background as an individual from a poor village family who had grown up with 13 brothers and sisters and yet ascended the political ladder was also well known. 

"We can say and interpret anything," he wrote on Facebook. "But the Sanusi wave cannot be denied."

His post had been liked nearly 10,000 times with almost 1,000 shares as of press time while the comment section was flooded with statements of agreement.

"The Kedah MB is good," wrote Rosiah Safuan. "This is my honest opinion as someone from Selangor who lives in Kedah." 

Rosilawati meanwhile said that Sanusi's experience of poverty had brought him close to the people. 

"In addition, he has never belittled the views of the people. He is a dream leader at a time when the people are struggling to earn a living each day." 

Syahril meanwhile predicted that Sanusi would emerge stronger from his court episode. 

"Maybe I'm wrong, but not necessarily so," he said. 

"Wait and see. Trust me, this story does not end here. In fact, it has only just begun."