It has been the practice for the mainstream media, both electronic and print, to give 'extraordinary' coverage on every overseas trip and meeting of Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad.

More often than not, the coverage only highlights the 'good news'. Rarely do 'news' detrimental to his image — like the US stand on jailed former deputy premier Anwar Ibrahim, human rights or his interview with CNN , for instance — receive media space or airtime.

PM's next meeting with the pope should not be seen as something 'extraordinary'. The media should not exaggerate or blow out of proportion the meeting between the two. It is normal for leaders of the world to meet the pope. Many have done it and others will continue to do so from time to time.

As such, it is quite inappropriate for people or the media to treat this meeting as a special privilege proffered Mahathir. While it is vital to show goodwill internationally, it is more important to sustain or create such values at home.

In the light of the general election, let's hope that this meeting will not be capitalised to garner the votes of Christian voters.