COMMENT | During World War II, as part of an Australian government campaign to encourage discretion and prevent the careless sharing of information, a message was widely spread through posters depicting a fish being lured by a worm.

It had the slogan “Even a fish wouldn’t get caught if he kept his mouth shut” or similar variations.

The posters served as a reminder to the public that even small pieces of information, if spoken carelessly, could be harmful to national security and the safety of soldiers.

It may not be applicable, but it is a message to all Malaysians, especially those holding political office or those who hold posts in sports organisations.

But many continue to waffle and issue denials, not learning from past mistakes.