Malaysia has once again shown its (in)tolerance when our Censorship Board thought no further and banned an episode of the popular local television series 3R which centred on the issue of lesbianism.

That episode was scheduled for airing over a month ago. According to the Censorship Board, its main fear was that if the particular episode was allowed to go air, it would only end up "promoting homosexuality". And not to mention that the episode went against Islamic principles.

Their misplaced worry and concern have no basis - how would a child or a teenager, upon seeing that said episode of 3R decide to jump into bed with someone of the same sex?

The banning of such informative shows does not mean our children are not going to be exposed to such issues. They already are, and if we do not open the discussion on the issue, they might just end up getting information from the wrong sources.

Remember, prevention is better than cure. For example, we speak of HIV/Aids and Malaysia's concerns over the disease. But we have no courage to provide a forum for discussion among our youngsters. It is wise at times like this to remind ourselves that "ignorance is no bliss."