As a Malaysian who cherishes the freedom of speech and of the press, I wish to offer my solidarity and support to the brave Chinese writers who have decided to strike, so to speak.

I wish them success, and I also call on the Chinese community in particular and good Malaysians of all races not to condone any actions of strike-breakers, or scabs.

Press freedom is under threat. It is the duty and responsibility of all Malaysians to help in whatever way they can to defend the affected Chinese journalists. What is needed is the will power to carry on the fight long enough for MCA to realise that it is dispensable if it continues to be arrogant and insolent.

MCA and their agents in the media must be taught an unmistakable lesson that once the institution of free and independent Chinese media is destroyed, the Chinese could destroy without mercy MCA in the coming general elections. We have the option of DAP, Keadilan and Gerakan to vote for.

If MCA thinks it can neutralise and turn over the Chinese Malaysians' struggle for justice and democracy for all, through propaganda in the next two years or so until the next general elections, I say it has underestimated the strength and will power of the community.

If Chinese could support PAS in 1969 to destroy the extremist Dr Mahathir Mohamad, there is no reason why we wouldn't dare crush MCA which is destroying the fundamental institution of the Chinese community, namely free, independent and non-partisan newspapers to which we Chinese look upon with pride and honour.

I also wish to call on Sin Chew Jit Poh to clarify its interest in the bid, and to account for its decision to black out alternative views and opinions on the issue. Lawan tetap lawan!