Two local bodies have taken the initiative to gather through the short-messaging system (SMS) the "general feeling and sentiments of the Malaysian public" towards the two contenders for the MIC deputy president post.

According to Bernama, the Malaysian Public Service Association (PPRM) and the Nayagan bi-monthly magazine are orgainisng the SMS poll - which begins today until June 20. Voters will indicate their preference for either incumbent S Subramaniam or his likely challenger G Palanivel .

"PPRM is an independent non-governmental organisation and does not have any personal agenda in conducting this poll, but our intention is to find out the general feeling and sentiments of the Malaysian public," said PPRM president P Gunaseelan

"We are not trying to influence the real result, this is just to create interest as the final decision is still up to the MIC delegates," he added.

Fair and just manner

Gunaseelan also said the SMS poll would be conducted in a fair, just, professional and friendly manner and is not meant to create disharmony within the MIC.

Voters just have to type 'Vote SS' for Subramaniam or 'Vote GP' for Palanivel and send their SMS to 32252.

Typing PROFILE SS or PROFILE GP and sending it to the same number will lead to a brief profile of the respective leader.

Results will be available every Thursday by typing STAT and sent to 32252. Each SMS will be charged 50 cents.