Umno Youth deputy chief Khairy Jamaluddin today said the party will make efforts to strengthen its influence in the virtual world two days after opposition announced its 'e-campaign' for votes.

Speaking at a press conference in Kuala Lumpur, he conceded that Umno and Barisan Nasional (BN) have not utilised the cyberspace arena completely.

"This is an issue that we are working to address immediately because we know that the Internet is a medium of communication that is becoming increasingly important and influential in today's world," he said.

He added that Umno and BN view the opposition's campaign on the Internet seriously.

Khairy (second from right), who is also the son-in-law of Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, said the Internet is a way of reaching out to young voters.

"We must have a presence in this area, as otherwise we stand to lose support from the younger generation who use the Internet as their primary source of information.

"We are observing developments closely to ensure that our message will be heard clearly," he added.

On Aug 15, DAP announced the launch of its 'e-campaign' to woo voters for the coming general election. The project, spearheaded by prominent blogger and party member Jeff Ooi, will target young voters and supporters in high Internet penetration areas.

Asked if Umno Youth is prepared to face the online challenge from DAP, Khairy appeared confident.

"We are ready. We already have a website, as well as writers who post regularly on youth forums, for example," he explained.

Unfazed by Anwar's threat

The 31-year-old politician also cited the need to impose restrictions on information disseminated via the Internet.

"The psychological mentality of internet users today tends towards sensational or unsubstantiated news. The Internet is much harder to regulate in comparison with traditional media such as print and television, so we must ensure that we overcome the weaknesses of this technology.

"There is no correction mechanism that will allow people to focus on real and relevant issues instead of sensationalised news which may not be properly sourced," he said.

Questioned regarding PKR de facto leader Anwar Ibrahim's threat to sue Khairy for calling the latter a Jewish agent and traitor, the Umno Youth deputy chief replied: "I will not apologise for what I have said."

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