If the local media's display of yellow ribbons or black front pages is considered a preface to the World Press Freedom Day yesterday, then the decision last night to establish an Institute of Journalists (IOJ) must be the kick-off to a new era for Malaysian journalism.

Some 80 journalists, many of whom are veterans or editors in news outlets, gathered at National Press Club to discuss the formation of an independent body to advance the noble profession.

The attendees unanimously agreed that a body is needed to represent all journalists in a single organisation that will speak out on all professional issues affecting them, issues that neither the National Union of Journalists nor the Malaysian Press Institute undertake.

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