In 1984, our beloved founding father and first prime minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman advised the Malaysian vernacular press to be responsible in the articles they write and the issues they highlight.

They were told not to be racist or indulge in racially-based political rhetoric, as this would hurt this nation of many races and religions. Owners of media groups were asked to seriously double check the authenticity of any comments or reports that may disrupt racial and religious harmony.

However, based on recent vernacular press articles, it is clear that this advice has not been followed and we have today, a total lack of responsibility towards what one writes or depicts in a public domain.

The modus operandi is as follows. Vernacular newspapers highlight a statement which they misquoted in the first place. The same vernacular newspaper will then contact several other politicians for their comments and each would add a 'new spin and tenor' to the original statement.

The issue gathers momentum and soon enough all Malaysians are inflamed over a statement which is yet to be even confirmed as correct!

I believe this is what happened in the case of the article on Sunday by a vernacular newspaper (Utusan Malaysia), which quoted Gerakan president Dr Lim Keng Yaik as having asked political parties to discard the social contract.

Lim was also quoted to have said that the social contract had hurt the feelings of the marginalised Chinese and Indian Malaysians. However, he has strongly refuted the reporting of the said newspaper and will soon clarify the matter with Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi.

Those 'pouring oil onto flames' forget that in less than two weeks, Malaysia celebrates her 48th Independence Day.

It is thus pertinent the a comprehensive investigation be carried out to verify whether the comments attributed to Lim were true, and if not, for action to be taken against those behind the errant publication. If the comments were really made, then it is only right that Lim tenders his resignation from the cabinet.

It is pertinent for all of us to bear one thing in mind and that if there is social disorder in Malaysia all of us will lose. If issues need to be deliberated, then let's us do so in a mature and rational manner and not be focused on racial sentiments.

The best thing we can do at this 48th Merdeka is to show the younger generation of Malaysians an example in that in this country, we pursue issues in the spirit of moderation, understanding and respect to promote goodwill among all the races.