Whose figures do we believe?

Bernama pic.

A research finding cited recently by former PKR vice-president Rafizi Ramli has become contentious. This shows how fractious Pakatan Harapan (PH) has become.

According to Rafizi’s study, Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad’s approval rating has dropped significantly since the May 9 general election due to a variety of reasons.

However, this finding was quickly disputed by another study conducted by the International Islamic University of Malaysia (IIUM).

I have no way of knowing whose study is more authentic or reliable. But something is not right. Both studies could be wrong, but certainly both cannot be right.

I can relate to the study cited by Rafizi, based on my own observations, interactions with others and what I have read — that the initial euphoria for PH’s government has somewhat subsided due to a variety of reasons.

Of course, others are welcome to challenge the findings. However, to do that, they would need to prove if there was an “ulterior” motive behind the polls or that the research methodology was questionable.

So far, I have not heard of Rafizi interpreting the findings based on the personal shortcomings of Mahathir. I have also not heard of the survey’s methodology being compromised or skewed.

The drop in the PM’s approval rating was essentially due to policy priority, distraction and performance of the Pakatan Harapan government as a whole.

I do not know who commissioned the similar study at IIUM. But I have my doubts as it came so soon after the study Rafizi cited and produced a finding that was dramatically different from the earlier one.

I hope both Rafizi and IIUM were not using the “survey” or “study” to make a point or to win an argument.

To me, there is no harm in providing feedback, even if some of the findings are not favourable. For a long time, former prime minister Najib Razak, Umno and BN had never really listened to anybody, friends or foes, and that was why they got into deep trouble later.

Mahathir and PH are not infallible. I really hope those who have access to our leaders are not bootlickers. People are discerning and sometimes the actions of bootlickers could make the situation worse.

TK Chua is an FMT reader.