The Star and Perak

The change was subtle. Slowly but surely, Perak is now the centre of Star attention. Otherwise, how could we figure out the rationale of Metro (as in local) news divided into Central, North, South & East, and Perak? Sawarak has its own section but not Sabah.

We used to be able to read much more on Penang, but now with Metro Perak, we get more Perak news at the expense of Penang. The fact that Star is owned by MCA, the decision could only be political.

Penang is ruled by Pakatan's DAP, so any news is likely to publicize political opponents. Perak was grabbed by BN, with the 'able' leadership of Najib, who did what Tajol Rosli could not, within months of taking over Umno state chief post from him. Now that Pakatan cannot wait to win back Perak at the next polls, BN has to give more prominence to the state which is under their control to ensure continuity. There are many people who are really 'tulan' with Najib for the grab, and they feel he must be taught a lesson. We cannot easily forgive nor forget such arrogance and abuse.

If the decision was not political, Selangor should similarly be given a Metro Selangor, given its being the most strategic state status. But how can? Selangor, like Penang, is under Pakatan's PKR rule. There is no such thing as free publicity for political opponents, especially with BN, which is known for being outright unfair in not providing oil royalties to Kelantan and Trengganu when it was under PAS, and development funds to opposition MPs and ADUNs.

I am not sure if it is welcome by others, Metro Perak has more news on Batu Gajah, with prominence to MCA politicians. These are likely to be candidates for the next election.

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