For long, I have wished to acknowledge my appreciation for our parliamentary Opposition Leader Lim Kit Siang. After reading his recent letter NST front-page report 'misses the mark' , I believe this will be the right time to do so.

Many may not agree with Lim's political ideology, but few will deny his strong-willed spirit. Unfortunately, in today political environment, he is deemed to be a 'tragic hero'.

He will never receives due recognition for his contributions to our society, especially when people assess it in comparison with our ex-prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad's.

Lim is always facing the strong opponents. They will not miss any single opportunity to criticise him because of his uncompromising trait. His suggestions are sometimes in vain, although their intentions may be good.

I wonder what our political arena will be like after his eventual departure. Who will ever want to assume such an underdog position? It really takes a lot of courage to work against the majority, and this act itself deserves more respect.

There is a Chinese proverb that I wish to share. It goes something like this: 'Good advice always sounds painful to the listener'.

I do urge our government to learn adopt a more open mind towards constructive criticism and comments in the future.