As I wrote last week, I am never particularly fond of or impressed with the Phoenix Channel , despite the news network's vow to 'bring the Chinese to the world'.

Still, among the very few (remaining) quality commentators, I will strongly recommend Shi Qiping. Unlike his other colleagues, who are sometimes so carried away and behave as if they are the spokespersons of the Chinese government, Shi comes across more as a media professional adhering to neutrality and objectivity

Early this week, Shi urged in a news programme on the alleged maltreatments of Chinese nationals that both China and Malaysia should take a comprehensive look at the issue and study its possible causes in a holistic manner, instead of tackling it as isolated cases.

I cannot agree more.