PORT DICKSON, May 17 —  Independent researchers should consult the Election Commission (EC) for accurate information to avoid them from making misguided assumptions, said EC chairman Tan Sri Abdul Aziz Mohd Yusof.

He said the EC found a preponderance among certain independent researchers to make misplaced conclusions based on EC secondary data and information.

"An analysis or a study based on secondary information is considered not ethical and could lead to misunderstanding and become misleading," he told reporters after opening a briefing for returning officers from Negeri Sembilan and Melaka for the 13th general election, here today.

Abdul Aziz cited a researcher, who doubted the existence of a 100-year-old voter, made sinister remarks by attributing this to the country having the best healthcare system in the world.

He said the researcher also questioned why many voters have the same name.

"What can we do since it is their name. For instance, I am not the only one named Abdul Aziz Mohd Yusof in the country, but hundreds of electors have the same name and spelling as mine," he said.

As a study based on secondary information is not accurate, he said researchers should consult the EC for detailed data. — Bernama