WELL done, Jaclyn Victor. You did Malaysia proud at the Asian Idol in Jakarta on Sunday night.

Your opening act for the competition was amazing and your showmanship was superb.

I believe it really got the audience moving and all fired up for a fantastic show.

You made full use of the stage and really rocked the house. Even your dressing and style was very good. In fact, it reminded me of Janet Jackson.

However, I was not comfortable with the judge from Malaysia, Paul Moss.

I think his remarks, not just for Jaclyn but for the other competitors as well, may have ruined Malaysia’s chances of winning. His blunt remarks and untactful comments were just inappropriate.

In competitions like this, one must be diplomatic and always be positive in the use of words.

It’s hard to compare when the singers are from different countries, singing in their own languages and having their own cultures. They are all unique and are the best in their own countries.

It is wise to highlight their strengths and be encouraging, instead of nit-picking. Everybody knows that it is a popularity contest and, therefore, it really depends on who can draw the most SMS votes.

Well, Paul, if it was your intention to ruffle some feathers just to spice up the show, then it really didn’t work. Your remarks merely put Malaysia in a bad light.

Once again, Syabas, Jaclyn. Keep up the good work.

WONG THIAM MING, Klang

Source: NST – December 19, 2007