This posting is a follow-up on civil society movements attempting to create a more just Malaysia – especially in reversing racist government policies. The online media had been at the forefront in providing news and views from diverse groups – especially those marginalised by the mainstream media. By providing an avenue for intelligent debate, the online media allows citizens to question the government’s policies and suggest alternative measures.
Leading the way is Malaysiakini – Malaysia’s pioneer online news portal. It states that its editorial position, “…is consistently supportive of justice, human rights, democracy, freedom of speech and good governance.”
Malaysiakini’s pioneering efforts have encouraged other like minded citizens to set-up online media as a medium to allow Malaysians to discuss Malaysia’s future. Here is a list of some of them:
The Nutgraph with the tag line “Making sense of politics and pop culture” has a wider scope, addressing issues beyond politics. It provides an avenue to highlight the positive aspects of Malaysian society including arts and culture. Columns such as “Found in Malaysia” focus on Malaysians who exemplify the best in Malaysian society.
The Malaysian Mirror introduces itself as “…founded by a group of veteran journalists from Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak. Our investors comprise entrepreneurs, professionals from various disciplines, including journalists and politicians from both sides of the political divide. We are an independent entity and shall endeavour to report without fear or favour because the citizenry deserves to know the truth…”
The Malaysian Insider is another online news portal fast gaining popularity. Operated by individuals with corporate background, their objective is to “…create an Internet newspaper which offers an unvarnished take on events and personalities in Malaysia.” The online media also hopes “…that in time more Malaysians who crave for balanced and serious reporting on issues will contribute their news and views to us. We believe that with transparency, promotion of good character and professionalism, we will contribute towards building a country that has the USP (U-unity, S-security and P-prosperity) to be transformed into a great nation…”
It is hoped that this and many other attempts to reverse institutionalized racism by civil society in Malaysia will ultimately bear fruits. Preferably sooner rather than later.
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