NEED to know what is happening in the country or the world these days? Well, all you need to do is log on to Facebook (FB).
The social networking site has become more than a household name as more people are becoming members.
The site not only enables a person to seek and communicate with their friends but also serves as a vital information tool to the masses.
Many people are finding the latest updates via the site and expressing their thoughts on current issues.
In the midst of all the sharing and disseminating of information, more politicians are finding their way into Facebook.
Their profiles are set up as a platform to interact with the people as well as to gain instant updates on certain issues.
From Home Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein to Federal Territories Minister Raja Datuk Nong Chik Zainal Abidin, the site is a hit among most of the politicians.
Keeping in touch: Saifuddin checking for updates on his Facebook profile. StarMetro spoke to the political polling research company Merdeka Centre head Ibrahim Suffian on what attracted these politicians and the role of the networking site.
Ibrahim said politicians were aware of the phenomenon of social networking sites like Facebook and Myspace as an easy way of getting in touch with young voters.
“Many politicians are taking a leaf out of US president Barrack Obama’s playbook and trying to use the Internet to get in touch with supporters and new voters.
“Facebook can keep the Internet-savvy segment of the masses aware of what the politicians are up to while gaining support on issues he or she is championing.
“It also allows them to get messages across quickly and can be used as a tool to recruit volunteers and donors for their campaigns,” he said.
“However, the opinion polls on Facebook may not replace the more scientific research or surveys but it allows them to gauge the sentiments of the supporters on a particular topic.
“As far as responses are concerned, it is safe to say that most of them are on Facebook with some going beyond to set up their own websites and blogs,” he said.
When asked about the future of social networking sites as a campaign tool, Ibrahim said it was likely to be part of a larger campaign method.
“The successful politician would be one who is able to motivate followers to become supporters and perform some tangible tasks.
“It is a tool that they are taking advantage of but the utility of such sites may be limited because of its features.
“I think it is one of the sites that they may use to keep people informed about issues or direct readers to go to other websites that contain more information,” he said.
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