Bloggers Must Uphold The Tenets Of Journalism Too, Says Zam. Is That A Threat?

I was wondering when Lord Zam will plunge into the fray after two deputy ministers gave their two sen worth of opinion, advice and forewarning. The deputies of course got a bloody nose from the internet media over their statements.

Not one to be deterred by such setbacks, Information Minister Datuk Seri Zainuddin Maidin opined that bloggers must uphold the tenets of journalism which is a noble profession. Of course Lord Zam did not specify which country's tenets of journalism should be upheld; the robust western variety or the sycophantic, semuanya ok local hybrid. Knowing him and the political party he owes his allegiance to, let there be no doubt as to which tenets he is referring to or looks up to as a perfect model.

He said bloggers, as corporate citizens, had a great influence in moulding public opinion and bore the same responsibility as the mainstream media. "This responsibility cannot be compromised for the sake of short-term popularity and gains," he said. (Whatever that is supposed to mean.)

Zainuddin said the government was aware that the number of Internet blogs had increased and the situation might change the face of Malaysian journalism in the near future. Despite the rise, the government was happy to note that the Malaysian media was 'responsible' and had sustained its practices for the greater good of the 'nation' and its people, he said.

"The government today has a positive view of the media and wishes to see it demonstrate maturity in balancing its roles through the building of healthy media practices, understanding of the people's problems and sensitivity towards the challenges of the nation," he added. In short he is generally satisfied with the level of kowtowing and sycophancy shown by the mainstream media and his next wish is to see bloggers emulate the bootlicking skills demonstrated by the newspapers and hopes it will be done in double time so that government can also have a 'positive' view of the blogging fraternity.

Zam is most lethal when he speaks in comforting tones and gently rationalizes. Behind that calm is a soldier of the old guard who would prefer to crack the whip and put everyone, especially bloggers in their place. If he had the chance that is.