The Press in Malaysia

I was astonished to read an opinion article in Star Online (19 August 2012) entitled "Let's be honest in assessing our in assessing our achievements." It claims that "As a people, Malaysians tend to be picky and self-deprecating to the point of overlooking our strengths as a nation."

This assertion was based on the fact that the economy has grown 5.4% in the second quarter, which is relatively high when compared with developed and other emerging economies. In addition, Star contends that Malaysians should appreciate the growth benefits instead of complaining that the government should have done more.

On the one hand, from psychological point of view, Star's opinion can be regarded as "my glass is still half full" instead of "my glass is half empty." On the other hand, Star can assert that Malaysian economy could have performed better, and Malaysians have the right or entitlement to choose a new leadership or new government that could deliver a higher growth benefits. I bet that most rakyat Malaysia are demanding the latter.

It is unfortunate that, in spite our level of development, the Star is still the fourth branch of government instead of transforming itself to become the fourth estate.