MR ZAKIR Hussain's report ("When 'groundswell of opinion' is
deceptive", April 10) makes for disturbing reading.
Policymakers depend on accurate public feedback to craft sound
policies. Astroturfing distorts public feedback and jeopardises the
policymaking process.
In an information war, truth is the first casualty.
I appreciate the efforts taken by our political leaders over the
past decade to make themselves more accessible to the public
through electronic media.
For busy Singaporeans, this media is certainly more convenient
to use compared to face-to-face meetings.
Unfortunately, the increasing prevalence of astroturfing will
cause policymakers to treat online public feedback with
scepticism.
The trust between citizens and elected officials may become the
second casualty because of the irresponsible actions of a few.
Han Tau Kwang