The outcome of MCA's EGM today to decide on the Nanyang Press takeover is now nothing more than just an academic exercise. Nanyang Siang Pau is dying and we must accept it.

It does not matter who gets the vote. If party president Dr Ling Liong Sik gets the vote, it is doubtful whether Nanyang can survive in the hostile environment that is likely to follow. If his deputy Lim Ah Lek gets the vote, there will be pressure from Big Brother to toe the line. Editorial content at best will be compromised with threats of the licence being withdrawn, not renewed, etc.

If Big Brother can give the go-ahead for the purchase, there is no doubt he will have a part in approving Nanyang Siang Pau's editorial contents, especially if it was to mention anything adverse about him and/or MCA.

Nanyang, after so many years of functioning as the conscience of the Chinese community, is dying and although the feuding parties may repent like all good children would, the end is nigh for the 'wise old man'.

I hope someone will be able to write a good obituary as I believe Nanyang deserves nothing less.

Nanyang - may you rest in peace.