His thoughts on a free press were insightful and enlightening to me as I have often oscillated between different views on the role of the media. At times, I have wondered if some reporting is 'propaganda' and it was then I turned sceptical.

I am glad Mr Ngiam defined a free press and what it is not. I'm glad I do not live in the West where everyone has an opinion, right or wrong. I'm glad I do not live in some communist-ruled countries where everything is propaganda.

I'm glad journalists here have such good advice and guidance and that, at the end of the day, I, as a reader, have the choice to reach my own conclusions.

The excerpt was so well written and edited, I read the article two or three times - not because I didn't understand it the first time, but because I was drawn in by Mr Ngiam's passionate presentation on the role of the press.

I am sure I will still have questions now and then, but at least I am assured the media has the right people.

Ruth Lim Wan Kie (Ms)