Mr Toh
The government's rejection of the report on bumiputra corporate equity published by Asli's Centre for Public Policy Studies, which challenges the official data, has sent the wrong signal that dissent is not tolerated and honest pursuit of knowledge discouraged, says state executive councillor Datuk Dr Toh Kin Woon.
Toh, a University Malaya-trained economist and Gerakan central committee member, said this was a sad development and seemed at odds with the government's professed aim of wanting to make the country a more open, transparent and liberal society.
"This is because the expansion of democratic space, and the strengthening of the right to dissent and challenge, are so important in moving the nation forward," Toh stressed.
"Dr Lim disagreed and stood by his methodology. Being the honest scientist that he is, he took the honourable way of resigning, rather than meekly comply with the views of his president."
"His stand is a very refreshing departure from the culture of compliance and subservience that the ruling elites in our country attempt to cultivate," Toh said.
Mr Najib
"The government will continue to insist on the official data. We hope this will be accepted and will not be questioned by anyone."
"Initially, it could be seen as intellectual discourse but once it touches on sensitive matters, it can incite racial feelings," he said.
Which one them do you think displayed more maturity and intellect? For a mention, the "official data" is but a single number given (does it qualify to be called data?), without telling exactly how it came about. And they expect it to be "accepted" and "not be questioned by anyone", with the usual threats of "sensitive" and "racial".
Dear sir, why not just say you think that we are all fools?
When reading journals, I am taught by my teachers to evaluate the validity and credibility of any research data/study by looking at its Sample Size and Selection, Research Methodology, Statistical Analysis, Results, Conclusion and Discussion, any declaration of Conflict of Interest etc.
A single number produced by a research clouded in secrecy, with somebody having a conflict of interest blaring thou shalt accept it, thou shalt not question it, thou shalt not even discuss it... is probably worth only a place in my dustbin.
Next year we will be celebrating 50 years of National Independance. Society is moving forward, embracing knowledge and going for global competitiveness. Sad indeed, people in high positions are still stuck such backward mentality.
Let's choose a better team to move forward, the next time round.
If you wish to read more, click below...
Rejection of Asli report sends wrong signal: Toh
Brickbat for Asli, bouquet for Dr Lim from DAP
No comments:
Post a Comment