COMMENT | Last week, Doraemon gained unexpected international attention thanks to the Women, Family and Community Development Ministry. The ministry’s unfortunate #WanitaCegahCOVID19 campaign featured ill-conceived advice, that included the cartoon character, for how women should manage themselves, their husbands and the home during a semi-lockdown. Predictably, it gave rise almost instantly to countless memes.

The campaign also made international news. Publications from the South China Morning Post to The Canberra Times to The Guardian reported on the ministry’s campaign. Even Trevor Noah used it as material for his The Daily Show. The South African political commentator and comedian jabbed: “While some Asian countries are dealing with the second wave of the coronavirus, other countries are dealing with the wave of their own stupidity.” Ouch.

The ministry has since apologised for the posters and withdrawn two of its tips. However, it would seem that it remains clueless as to what the real issues are behind the public outrage and international derision.

What makes me say this? It’s all in the...