I am o­ne of those that hardly write to editors or post messages o­n discussion boards unless a topic sparks such an interest that I am compelled to share my thoughts and opinions. I am sure you have had countless e-mails and letters sent your way in regard to the recent raid.

This o­ne is no exception.

I first learned about " the letter

" from an Asia Yahoo Message board discussion; and I am embarrassed to say that as an East Malaysian (now living in the US) I had no idea what these fellow Malaysians were so hyped up about at first. I had relied so much o­n Daily Express as my source of information about home but whatever the controversial issue over "the letter" was hardly mentioned in detail to give a clear picture of what happened.

I was left in the dark with the half-filled (probably half-truths) information and rumours meandering among Asia Yahoo Message board users. Upon accessing to your site today after several earlier failed attempts, and after reading thoroughly all the related articles in the links, I must say that I am very impressed with malaysiakini's openness and resilience especially in its comeback from the recent raid.

It is very refreshing to read opinions from both sides of the fence - well-written and -thought-out articles sent in by your readers and supporters of Malaysians alike...even all the way from Australia.

Malaysiakini is the exact portal that the "silent voices" need as their platform to be heard; yet as o­ne contributor mentioned, should also remain as unbiased as possible. I have to say that in my short observation as an outsider to your site, malaysiakini has done a tremendous job being just that.

You also need to be highly commended for your stand in protecting the identity of the letter writer concerned, and for that I salute you and your hardworking team. Keep up the great work and may the support and encouragement of the silent voices keep you going and well read.