Media Statement by Hew Kuan Yau

Following my recent comments on Facebook on the issue of "The compensated dating between local reporters and BN" which stirred a storm of controversy, I have listened and gave serious thought to views from all sides, I have also considered the lessons gained from this experience.

I would like to publicly tender my sincere apologies for the "analogy" that I drew, which offended many upright and honest media practitioners.

I never intended to cause embarrassment to the many honest and upright media practitioners in Malaysia. I deeply regret that as the controversy evolved, many friends from the media felt hurt by some distorted interpretations that were spun by my enemy.

I strongly believe that media freedom is the cornerstone of political democratisation. I thank our friends in the media industry that have struggled long and hard under our harsh political climate. I hope that the Malaysia of tomorrow can have a freer media space, so that the media can effectively play its role to scrutinise the powers-that-be.

My academic focus and my political work have always aimed to strengthen the union movement in line with the ideal of social democracy, in order to check the excessive greed of capitalism. I am ever ready to work hand in hand with the NUJ in order to fight for press freedom in Malaysia!

Below is the English translation text of my Chinese posting in my face book on 6-2-2012.

Lately, the society has slammed teenagers who indulge in "compensated dating" ("Compensated dating" in Japanese word Enjo-kosai) as having no self-respect in exchange for material gain. At the same time, have it come across your mind that some non-self-respecting reporters, based on the same reasons, are also engaging in "compensated dating" with Barisan Nasional? As a matter of fact, I know, many local correspondences are "enjoying benefits from both sides." They are willing to act as "hired pen" on behalf of the local Barisan Nasional leaders. They report Pakatan Rakyat’s news with great bias! Freedom of press is an important battlefield for democratic movement. Hence, those local correspondences, I urge those who were involved in "compensated dating" with Barisan Nasional to redeem yourself.