A group of journalists from Nanyang Siang Pau and China Press , who have been wearing yellow ribbons as a mark of protest against MCA's acquisition of the dailies, will receive an award in honour of their efforts to safeguard media independence.

The inaugural Yellow Ribbon Award, given by monthly Chinese alternative magazine Perspektif Pedas , will go to the Nanyang Siang Pau and China Press Independent Journalists' Committee.

"We would like to honour these journalists who have been wearing the yellow ribbons as a symbol of freedom of speech and independence of the media," said Perspektif Pedas editor Yong Kai Ping.

Chinese-language dailies Nanyang Siang Pau and China Press were acquired by MCA in late May amidst strong public objections.

Many feared the change in ownership would result in the two newspapers, noted for their independent reporting, to be reduced to mere propaganda tools.

Human rights group Aliran president P Ramakrishnan will present the award to the journalists group at an 'Independent Media Night' next Friday in Selangor Chinese Assembly Hall, held in conjunction with the Perspektif Pedas' first anniversary.

Solidarity building

According to Yong, the media night is organised to build solidarity and promote a better working relationship between the various alternative media organisations that have mushroomed over the past few years.

"Everyday, journalists from all over the country struggle against the tide of censorship, propaganda, and state control on news and views," he said.

Yong said proceeds from the tickets priced at RM40 each will be contributed to a fund to support and publish more Chinese alternative publications in both the print and electronic media.

"This contribution may be small but it will go a long way towards our collective cause in campaigning for greater media freedom in Malaysia," he added.

Communication window

Perspektif Pedas which was founded by a group of young Chinese undergraduates, made its debut at the news stands in March last year.

Among its objectives are "to change the inward-looking mentality of Chinese readers and position the magazine as a communication window in the understanding of the development and way of life of other races, religions and cultural groups in the country".

Yong explained that the magazine also strives to discuss issues and concepts which have been classified as "forbidden or sensitive" by the mainstream Chinese media.

Perspesktif Pedas launched its website recently, beritagenerasi.com, joining the likes of other alternative Chinese websites such as mytianwang.com and freemedia.com.