Free press is not absolute. In this country, we say clearly if you start stirring up racial hatred, then we will put a stop to it. We might even close down your paper, because these things can only lead to a lot of riots and bloodshed.
Interpretation
The free press has limitations, particularly when it promotes hate that can lead to violence.
This quote by Mahathir Mohamad emphasizes that while a free press is essential for democracy, it is not without boundaries. The speaker asserts that the press has a responsibility to avoid inciting racial hatred, as such actions can result in serious social unrest and violence, highlighting the need for a balance between freedom of expression and social responsibility.
In practice
During a debate on media responsibilities, this quote can highlight the limits of press freedom.
I believe that every leader has a right to implement his own policy. But when I see things that are done that are not right - abuse of power, wrong approaches, wrong strategies, making use of foreign consultants, including those discarded by other countries - I feel that I have to have my say.
If you want to be honest with yourself, you have to take criticism, even if you attract adverse comments from others.
It would seem the people who want to preserve the Penans' way of life are condemning them to a life full of diseases and a shorter life span.
There are certain things that we can deal with by following the rules. But at times, we find the rules restrict you from doing the right things. On such occasions, we have to rethink - either you change the rules or break the rules.
In my years, I had the opportunity to observe peoples and countries. I see some countries doing well, others failing, and my analysis of things is that whether you fail or succeed is a function of your value system.
Independence means we enjoy freedom. We are not colonised by people. And we can govern our own country and develop it independently so that our people can live a better life.
I have a very simple philosophy. One has to separate the abilities from the disabilities. The fact I cannot walk, that I need crutches or a scooter or whatever it is, has nothing to do with my playing the violin.
Once conform, once do what other people do because they do it, and a lethargy steals over all the finer nerves and faculties of the soul. She becomes all outer show and inward emptiness; dull, callous, and indifferent.
Boredom is just the reverse side of fascination.
In so many of our communities and countries, racism is endemic. It's built in, like a rot in a frame.
Helping others isn't a chore; it is one of the greatest gifts there is.
The human mind is impelled to action, or held in rest by some power, over which the mind itself has no control.
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