I wish to reply to True Malaysian's letter entitled 'NGOs influenced by opposition' (May 16). He questioned why are the non-governmental organisations only now campaigning against the Internal Security Act (ISA) and not earlier.

I wish to point out that NGOs have been fighting relentlessly for the ISA to be abolished for decades since its inception; Anwar Ibrahim, too, spearheaded some campaigns during his varsity days.

I wish to put it right, too, that the NGOs in Malaysia have never been influenced by the opposition and have always been fair to both sides. It is generally known that the NGOs here have been supporting the government on certain matters which they feel are right. Members of NGOs are well educated and they know what is right and what is wrong. Do not underestimate them.