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Impact of Online News Websites on Forming Political Opinions among Youth in Klang Valley

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Impact of Online News Websites on Forming Political Opinions among Youth in Klang Valley
Effects of online news websites on constructing political opinions among youths in Klang Valley
Chan Hoi Cheong
B0802596
Department of Communication
MCH390 Honours Thesis
Mr. Liew Chee Kit
July 15, 2011

Abstract
The emergence of new media tools such as online news websites over the past five years have significantly changed the political landscape in Malaysia. This was evidently clear during the general election in March 2008 when the ruling National Front party suffered its worst defeat in 50-year after losing its two-third majority in the Parliament. One of the reasons which were being pointed out is the shift from traditional media especially among youths to new media such as online news websites to obtain information as well as to keep abreast with current political affairs in the country. It was in fact acknowledged by the former Prime Minister, Abdullah Ahmad Badawi by saying that his party has lost ‘the internet war’. This research article examines the relationship between online news websites on the construction of political opinions among youths in Klang Valley area. Through this research, it is hoped that a clearer understanding of this tool, which might shaped the future of politics in the country will be obtained. The results of this paper are based on quantitative surveys conducted on students from few universities and organizations in this area.

Acknowledgement I would like to express my gratitude to my thesis supervisor, Mr. Liew Chee Kit, for his support and guidance from the beginning till the concluding level of this research paper. This paper would not be a success without his constant advice, which also enhances my understanding into the topic of research. In addition, I also would like to acknowledge the support provided by Department of Communication, HELP University College during the research period. Not only that, I also would like to thank the 100 respondents from four universities and two organizations around Klang


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