CONTROVERSY began when Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced his upcoming meeting with Tesla CEO Elon Musk stating that it would be conducted virtually.
Twittersphere immediately blew up, with Twitter user Emmanuel Samarathisa commenting on the news in a condescending tone. The tweet read:
So, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim is only having a “virtual meeting” with Tesla’s Elon Musk this Friday? pic.twitter.com/RIPp74HdNB
— emmanuelsamarathisa (@esshimself) July 13, 2023
Emmanuel’s tweet faced swift backlash from other netizens who interpreted it as derisive and dismissive. Many criticised Emmanuel’s tone, accusing him of belittling the concept of virtual meetings and undermining the significance of technological advancements that enable remote collaborations.
Be it physical or virtual, it is the outcome of the meeting that matters.
— Min63 (@Min6320) July 13, 2023
So what? it’s 2023 virtual meetings saves time and money flying in and out of the US incurs cost.
— Suveen Raj (@suveenrajkr) July 14, 2023
Y..bukannya elon musk tertiba bertukar jadi sanusi kalau virtual
— gee (@fakhrulrazie13) July 13, 2023
(Why? It’s not like Musk will change into caretaker Kedah menteri besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor if it’s virtual.)
Even at my workplace when there’s a meeting that involves different departments, we’ll do it virtually. Less hassle and saves a lot of time.
— Motherof2 (@Ninie87883475) July 14, 2023
After facing criticism, Emmanuel posted a follow-up tweet in which he attempted to explain his initial comment. He wrote:
Some of you in the comments are either shilling for Anwar (no problem there) or are not getting it.
The way this was reported previously was as if he was going to have a physical meeting with Musk.
I work remotely; I get things done virtually, too.
Selamat Pagi, all. https://t.co/oc3Z1ZOLbA
— emmanuelsamarathisa (@esshimself) July 14, 2023
If anything, this incident sheds light on the significance of clear and precise communication, particularly in the context of social media where messages can be easily misconstrued.
It serves as a reminder that assumptions and misinterpretations can quickly escalate into public debates, online conflicts and unintended controversies.
Furthermore, the global shift towards remote work has further emphasised the importance and effectiveness of virtual collaborations.
As remote collaborations become increasingly prevalent, it is essential to embrace and acknowledge the significance of virtual meetings as a legitimate and productive means of communication in today’s interconnected world. – July 14, 2023
Main photo credit: Anwar Ibrahim’s Facebook
