Letter to editor
MALAYSIAKINI used to be seen as a brave media outlet that stood up for the truth. But these days, it feels like they’ve lost their way. Instead of reporting fairly, they seem more interested in stirring drama – especially when it involves leaders from Sabah.
Take the series of articles about secretly recorded videos that claimed some of our state leaders were involved in corruption. These videos were filmed without consent and edited. But Malaysiakini published them anyway, almost as if they were solid proof.
Of course, if there’s wrongdoing, let it be investigated. We fully support that. But pushing out half-baked stories based on shady recordings isn’t journalism. It’s trial by media.
For example, one of the individuals in the video, Datuk Seri Kadzim Yahya, explained that he had borrowed RM50,000. He said the talk about receiving RM350,000 was news to him. But did Malaysiakini highlight that clearly? Not really. But the damage was already done.
This is not the first time Malaysiakini has pushed such a one-sided narrative. It seems they are quick to go after certain government leaders – like those from Sabah – but are much softer when it comes to other political figures.
Selective persecution
This kind of double standard raises a pertinent question: Who benefits from this? And more importantly, who’s behind it?
It’s worth remembering that Malaysiakini has – in the past – received foreign funding, including from organisations that have been accused in other countries of interfering in domestic affairs and encouraging regime change.
We don’t know if such funding still flows today.
But let’s be honest – running a media outlet isn’t cheap. Subscriptions and ads alone rarely pay all the bills. So it’s fair for the public to wonder: are there still outside parties pulling the strings? And if so, to what end?
We’re not accusing. We’re simply asking the questions any thinking Malaysian should ask.
As ordinary Sabahans, we have watched quietly for too long, seeing our leaders constantly attacked and forced to defend themselves.
Now, it is time to also hold the media to account. They claim to stand for truth and justice – that’s fine. But where is the fairness? Where is the responsibility?
Both Sabahans and Malaysians deserve better. From their leaders, yes – but also from their media. Journalism must be based on facts, not assumptions or insinuations.
As for Malaysiakini, it can choose to return to the path of real journalism – be truthful, transparent and fair – or keep going down this road of cheap sensationalism.
But don’t be surprised if the public starts asking the same hard questions of you that you so freely ask of others. – April 29, 2025
Sakaran Samin
Sandakan
The views expressed are solely of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Focus Malaysia.
Main image credit: Malaysiakini
