COMMENT | To remind Malaysians that he is still relevant, the convicted felon, Najib Abdul Razak traverses the country in scenes that are reminiscent of the victory tour of the victors in the Hunger Games.

He struts about like a hero, not just in Johor, but in Malacca and other states. The police outriders make him seem like a visiting dignitary. The red carpet is rolled out for him.

Respected pillars of the local community line up to greet him. Babies are thrust into his lap. Women rush forward to take selfies.

Najib knows what works. In these days of Covid-19 induced gloom, the gaiety of Najib's carnival-like trips, will temporarily lift the people from their mild depression after two years of forced isolation.

Najib has learnt his lesson well. The former First Lady of Malaysia (FLOM) does not accompany him on these trips. He knows that as soon as KakRos accompanies him on these public outings, the magic between him and his supporters will disappear.

They only see her avarice and the...