MCA Central Committee Member Dato’Ti Lian Ker has recently made some untruth allegations against Sin Chew Daily in his article posted on his blog. English language daily The Star accorded the story with significant space and quoted Ti’s statement.

In relation to Ti’s intentionally misleading statement, our responses are as follows:

(a) In reporting the MCA power tussle fiasco, Sin Chew Daily has maintained our impartiality and independence, we have not been biased against any fractions/individuals, neither have we been oppressive against anyone.

However, as a fair and responsible media, when faced with any individuals/events that have throughout the fiasco, either acted against the interest of the Chinese community or public in general, disrupted peace and harmony of the society, undermined the democracy system or preventing justice through abuse of power, we have to express our views and criticisms.

Such role is a form of monitor imposed by media on any arrogant power to be, it is also how public opinion curtails abuse of power.

In times when public has been confused by various smokescreens, when the truth has been distorted and when right and wrong have been displaced, we, the Chinese press is obligated to restore the truth, to reveal the facts in order to uphold proper political morality and social justice.

Maintaining Fair and Professionalism in our Editorial Content

(b) Fair and professional editorial content is our constant pursuit. In handling the reportage or commentaries on the MCA power tussle; we have not succumbed to any form of pressure or intervention. Our content and approach are result of collective decisions made by the editorial team through many discussions or even heated debates.

Sin Chew Daily in taking such an editorial approach is being accountable to our shareholders as a public listed company and also being accountable to our loyal readers at large. In general, we have the collective interest of the public close to our heart.

Sim’s article does not represent our Stance

(c) Ti has also commented on an article by Ms Rita Sim Sai Hoon, our executive director, published in News Straits Times. He is of the view that the said article is intended to lambaste MCA, and he has implicated Sin Chew Daily in the process.

In upholding the peoples’ freedom of expression, we are of the view that Sim is entitled to make her stand in any media of her choice, we respect her view but it however, does not represent our stance.

(d) As a member of the MCA Central Committee, Ti should prioritize the integrity of his party; he should be responsible and honest with facts instead of making biased statements moved by personal interest to mislead the public.