I refer to Chai Ming Hock's comments on Japan's bid for a permanent UN Security Council seat. One need not delve too deeply into why Japan's bid should not be supported - the simple reason being Japan has yet to own up to its war of aggression against its Asian neighbours and for the most brutal atrocities ever committed by one country on another.

Before any country is to be considered for a permanent security council seat, we must first look at its willingness to be open, frank and honest about its past history and whether it can be relied upon to be a responsible member.

Does Japan fit this bill? Its actions and attitude show otherwise. If any country should be considered, I think Germany should be given priority over Japan. This due to Germany's open admission of its guilt and the apologies it tendered to its victims during World War II.

In fact, several high-ranking German war criminals were brought to trial and given life imprisonment sentences. Germany has now been fully accepted as a responsible member of the world community that has contributed to the rise and unity of Europe.

But what of Japan? Not only has Japan whitewashed its wartime history, it has even tried to justify its war of aggression and subsequent atrocities. It even enshrines its war criminals for worship by the new generations.

Coupled with this, it has even formed an alliance with the US to contain China. Isn't this adding insult to injury? Can one now understand China's sentiment?

In all seriousness, Japan cannot be considered for a permanent seat on the security council as it has not proven to be a responsible member of the world community.