Mustafa M Nasir poses a pertinent question about the truth in reporting in his letter, [#1] Kenapa kejayaan negara tidak dihebohkan? [/#], (Mac 16). My first reaction was to acquaint him with the New Straits Times , TV3, RTM and so forth, if he's not aware of their existence. If he wants 'success' stories, they've been dishing it out by the dollops for a dime. Have your fill.

But then I got to thinking, maybe this man has a point, somewhere. I think the truth has a lot to do with a logical thought process and perception. Malaysiakini might not favour some of our perception and hence strengthen our conviction about the government, its actions and the resulting 'successes' but it at least provides an alternative perspective. It is taking away credit from its readership if one were to assume they believe everything written here to be the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth. Use it to glory, the salt is free.

Which is more worrying? Having a bunch of misguided journalists among our midst or if there is an iota of truth about the revelations they have made about the governments abuses?

I for one, am inherently sceptical by nature and deeply distrust people in power and politicians in particular. All of us should be, too. If they have big, fat and direct links through ownership to the Malaysia Boleh! media, I would doubt very much that their editorial and reporting policy is supported by the pillar of truth.

And anyway, concentrating on blowing one's own trumpet continuously can often lead to serious deprivation of oxygen to the brain.