KUCHING: University scholars generally have the view that more institutions should conduct public opinion polls to see how people look at politics, government policies and national issues.
A Mara University of Technology (UiTM) social science senior lecturer who sought anonymity said the polls are important to keep tab of the real issues on the ground.
He was commenting on Monash University researcher Dr Akiko Morishita’s statement on the need to get real political views from the people in the state.
“Political figures also need to grasp public opinion on what they really want before the government is formed through a fair and just electoral process,” he said.
He mentioned that such action was important so that people would not be misled by negative elements that could destroy their hopes.
Another lecturer, Mohd Amran Subkie said political figures would need centres to tailor their policies and political campaign based on public opinion surveys.
According to Dr Morishita in her statement published by a local daily, interest in public opinion surveys in Malaysia is fairly new.
“The argument is whether public opinion is measured based on opinion or sentiment and also whether it is the opinion of a majority or minority,” she said.