Freedom of expression is not freedom from criticism. Yet, too many people confuse it and equate freedom of expression to freedom from criticism.
Here is an example of such misunderstanding:
Journalists in Malaysia often stay away from criticising the writings of another journalist, be it in another publication or an online portal. It’s an unwritten rule. As much as we do not agree with the views or slant of the article, we refrain from voicing our unhappiness as we believe in the freedom of expression. [Yasmin Ahmad: Journos angry over Kosmo article. Wong Chun Wai. New Malaysia. July 29 2009]
That comes from a top editor in Malaysia. Does one really wonder why the mainstream media is in such a mess?
