I am almost an avid reader of malaysiakini, which I admit is a good source for looking at things from different angles. o­ne must admit that every individual is biased about his/her own points of views. Things take a nasty turn however, when this bias tampers with the truth, and individuals seek to obscure the truth with hazy interpretations of their own.

Since malaysiakini claims to uphold the right to press freedom and the truth, I would like to bring your attention to the published letter by M Abdullah (Tynemouth), which is littered with various untruths that collectively paint a picture that is quite distorted from reality.

Firstly, let me say that I am a member of Kelab Umno Newcastle. What is Kelab Umno? To quote M Abdullah, Kelab Umno is "not political and must not be seen as a political organisation". It is a club, established for the purpose of getting its members together in various activities that would uphold and cement the bond between them. The fact that it is ultimately under Umno, the political body, is secondary to its aim. o­ne has to realise that not everything about Umno is about gaining votes and winning elections. Some may find this hard to believe, but there are individuals within Umno who are dedicated to causes that are utilitarian in nature.

According to M Abdullah, "Kelab Umno is no more than a bunch of irrelevant people acting as slaves of desperate Umno and BN politicians. They have never done anything to help build Malaysia as a progressive country."

I am saddened by the above comment made by M Abdullah. "Irrelevant people acting as slaves"? I cannot remember the last time we, the folks in Newcastle, received any orders from our 'masters' in Malaysia. We organise our own activities, which include sports, religious activities e.g. ceramah from invited ustaz, and celebrations during religious festivals.

"never done anything to help build Malaysia?" At the very least, we have instilled confidence in various members to hone their interpersonal skills. At the very least, we have tried to forge a sense of unity among not o­nly the Malays, but Malaysians. At the very least, we have tried to make a difference. But who am I, a mere student, to make such declarations? You can ask the people of Newcastle themselves.

I am not saying that there are no individuals who try to politicise everything. There are such individuals in every party. But to lump all members of a club under such a generalisation - I don't think it is very fair.

Last, but certainly not least, the issue of 'The Gig' in Newcastle. Yes, it is going o­n. Yes, there are students involved. But whoever said that it is under the auspices of Kelab Umno Newcastle? M Abdullah claims that we are wasting the taxpayers' money for an activity that brings no benefit. That's surprising news to me, because Kelab Umno never agreed to spend money o­n the gig, which is privately sponsored. I would love for M Abdullah to contact me and clear things up.

Once again, I am saddened by such statements that are made o­nly to stir up controversy. Why say anything if there is not an ounce of truth in it? Does o­ne simply make assumptions and publish o­ne's thoughts o­n a website?

According to M Abdullah: "The sponsors o­nly grow concerned if students in the UK want to deepen their religious knowledge, or participate in real nation-building activities."

Nothing has ever been done against those who seek to deepen their religious knowledge. Kelab Umno itself has organised many religious activities. Some might contend that it's not religious enough because it is organised by Umno, and hence, it is inherently 'contaminated'. I have nothing to say about such individuals, who are at best, shallow-minded and at worst, willing to sacrifice their religion for political purposes.

And please, Mr M Abdullah, do define proper "nation-building activities", because I am sure that nothing I come up with will be satisfactory enough for you.

At the end of the day, it is important to get all the facts before o­ne makes an accusation. In Islam, we are taught that fitnah (slander) is a greater sin than murder.