The use of information communication technology (ICT) and internet in Malaysian politics: a study in Kuching, Sarawak / Lema Lubang and Roslind Joo

Malaysia has been affected by the emergence of Information Communication Technology (ICT) and internet for the better or worse. In politic the use of Internet somewhat has had a tremendous impact upon political scenario. Besides the internet, other communication technologies like the mobile phone and mass media also played a crucial role. The Internet allows free flow of information and enable the people to access the information without cost. Therefore, most people make use of ICT and internet to spread the news or read the issue especially on political issues. The objectives of the study are to determine the influences of online media in Malaysian politics; to investigate the extent of online accessibility for Malaysian citizens; to determine effect of E-messages in Malaysian politics. The questionnaire method is use to collect the data. The sample size for the purpose of this study is 200 (for selected public sector, private sector and NGO’s). The study shows the influence of online media in Malaysian politics is moderate but online media seem likely to have an impact on politics scenario. Online media somewhat can influence Malaysian politics in the future. This is because the degree of online accessibility nowadays becomes high. The younger generation especially has more access to online media and makes use of the Internet as news source for politics. This research also emphasizes on how Malaysian politics affected by mass media and how does the use of ict and internet brings changes in politics.