I REFER to Datuk Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor’s admission that he accepted contributions when giving talks (”Astronaut: It’s not RM8,000 an hour” — NST, Nov 17)

While it is claimed the deputy minister of science, technology and innovation “was happy and satisfied” with the explanation given by Dr Sheikh Muszaphar concerning a website’s claim that he has collected RM1.2 million in lecture fees, the ministry and the astronaut still owe the public a full explanation.

They must not forget that the nation spent some RM39.11 million (of taxpayers’ money) to send this angkasawan on a space mission.

Therefore, it is not just about charging RM8,000 an hour.

It’s about whether it is ethical for our angkasawan to collect fees for talks and lectures, if he did at all.

For the enormous sum of money expended on his mission and supporting services, he should be showing his gratitude by sharing freely his experiences in space with us.

Why should Malaysian organisations, schools, colleges and universities pay him?

If any fee is to be collected, it should be given to the government. And he, the angkasawan, should be paid a reasonable per diem rate for the day.

A.L., Petaling Jaya

Source: NST – November 20, 2008