Despite all the hype about 1Malaysia, something is 'seriously rotten' in the country.

It is disgraceful when journalists who are supposed to be custodians of truth and fair-play become irresponsible scribes.

Utusan Malaysia-owned Kosmo's article headlined 'Takdir Yasmin' is despicable, cruel and insensitive.

It is a classic example of gutter journalism.

I'm glad that it has 'touched off a storm of protest' from Yasmin's friends in the media, advertising industry and others in civil society.

The call for a boycott of Utusan's publications is justified. They have long behaved in a manner that is outright irresponsible and racist.

I do not know why they have not been hauled up and punished by the Ministry of Home Affairs.

I'm advised that a letter has been drafted by former and current journalists protesting against Kosmo's story.

It is addressed to Utusan Malaysia chairman Tan Sri Hashim Makaruddin and a copy is expected to be sent to the Home Minister.'

Though I expect nothing to change we will wait the outcome, for 'academic purposes!'

For a group that takes a high moral, self righteous ground, was it not aware of treasured Asian values and customs?

Running a story that showed utter disregard for the late Malaysian filmmaker, her family and Malaysians who are still mourning her demise, is utterly cruel and insensitive.

Racism, polarisation, insensitiveness, cruelty, inhumane treatment of fellow Malaysians, abuse of power, corruption, rising custodial deaths - is this all we have to show come August 31st?

Eds note: Kosmo! made a front-page an apology to Yasmin's family today