E-Government survey applauded

PARTICIPANTS of the e-Government citizen survey during the Tutong Carnival yesterday lauded the move to engage its citizens in the government's efforts to improve its on-line services.

"Getting feedback on what we feel is important is a good way to improve their system or way of working," said a civil servant who spoke on condition of anonymity. In his view a successful e-Government would facilitate direct communication with government agencies allowing them to identify the areas where they may enhance their service to the public.

There were, however, some who felt that that the survey did not go far enough as to ask the public to prioritise what services they feel should be online. "I think the survey was too simple, and I am curious to see what comes out of it," said Khairol Rizal.

He also pointed out that those who did the survey should also take the opportunity to outline their expectations of "e-Government" in the specific section of the survey.

Despite the shortcomings, however, the 28-year-old appreciates the initiative taken.

Meanwhile, another visitor to the carnival urged for the survey results to be made public, and also to be conducted regularly. "If the survey results are published, it would call for accountability should there any failure to implement what the public has asked for," he said.

"Should the government take it on, then they can hold more surveys to further enhance their services," he added.

In line with the e-Government Strategic Plan 2009-2014, the survey is open to all citizens and residents in all the districts.

After identifying the services they feel is most important, participants are then required to highlight the aspects of the service that would benefit most from being put online.

The survey was conducted as part of another roadshow in the Tutong District, held during the local district carnival.

According to a member of the roadshow, participation was encouraging with more people visited the booth following the first survey conducted last Friday.

With roadshows being held in all districts of Brunei, the nationwide e-Government Citizen Survey is anticipated to enable more effective citizen engagement and collaboration with the community.

The Brunei Times