Foul!

'War' could be seen as a strong word but it sure seems like it for some within the media fraternity. Several incidents, including the statement issued by the Finance Ministry two days ago, have further irked members of the Press who are already battling woes within their organisations. The statement, issued on Aug 10, 2019, was in response to Bernama's financial constraints . While the statement provided a clarification to the situation, those in the industry question if the last paragraph was necessary. In fact, the last paragraph got some wondering if it was a statement by the ministry or a state government (as seen pre-GE14). On Aug 7, members of the local media "kesal" after they left out of a press conference during the Malaysia-China Belt and Road Economic Cooperation Forum in Kuala Lumpur. And not too long ago, the Human Resources Development Fund sued a (or two) journalist/columnist/reporter over an international cours...

To those who have served the Sportswriters' Association of Malaysia (SAM) - a big thank you. To those who will begin their new SAM adventure - all the best. Progress is achieved when the successors do better than their predecessors. This should not be viewed as a contest between individuals but a marathon to ensure the association continues to shine. Shortcomings should be addressed through proper channels. After all it's an association comprising of journalists - thus it's best we practice what we preach.  Learn from, instead of  harping about, the "good old days". SAM is made up of journalists, not politicians. As such, journalists should behave like journalists - and not like desperate politicians eager to justify their existence. SAM is not just about organising activities. SAM is about brotherhood and unity. Egos will continue to clash but that should never be at the expense of the association. The election is neither a popul...