I am heartened by the letters published here. My belief in the country and her people is vindicated when I read these letters.

I am impressed by the writers' writing skills, mastery of the English language as well as their superb grasp of the chosen topics. It shows that we Malaysians are not inferior intellectually to any other nation.

However, I would like to appeal to all the writers to leave emotions out of their writings. We should aspire to conduct a rational and intellectual debate and discussion, persuading people to listen and support our side of argument by the strength of logic and indisputable facts rather than intimidation and a loud voice.

Some writers have been attacked or told to shut up by others just because they have a different opinion on a controversial subject matter. This is kind of reaction that we should avoid as it runs contrary to the spirit of freedom of expression that we are trying to fight for and promote.