It is heartening that today more people want to be heard. That is good for the nation as well as the people.

A decade ago, things weren’t like this. People spoke less. The media wasn’t brave enough. Even now, the former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad can attack the present prime minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi on a matter of “a gentleman’s agreement” that the latter would serve one term as prime minister. However, Abdullah has denied this.

Now I read many a columnist in the newspapers, and hear speakers on TV speaking their mind. They do not hesitate to say things even if it may be not be palatable to the government.

Editorial comments in newspapers are more brave, touching on matters they stayed away from before. Many a website speaks loud and clear, whether people or the government like it or not.

Even bloggers have jumped on the bandwagon. They say so much, sometimes it is like Ripley’s Believe It or Not.

While I hope more of us speak up on matters that matter, maybe the following tips will help:

Go for the issues, not the person. Get your facts right. Don’t say what isn’t true. Be fair in you words and approach. Do not be biased.

Do not get emotional, but be rational. It is our right to speak up, and clearly state our views. Use this freedom. Do not abuse it.

Bulbir Singh,
Seremban

Source: The Sun – February 4, 2008