I have always said that new media plays an important role in our political and civic future and that it is important for the truth to be told through responsible reporting. I was therefore interested to come across a new Bloggers' Code of Ethics that publishers may adopt.

Published on an internet news site, these guidelines are based on the US-based Society of Professional Journalists' code of ethics for bloggers. A small selection follows.

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Over the past month since I entered office, I have been introducing through my blog a set of values which I believe are fundamental in shaping us into formidable Malaysians befitting the 1 Malaysia vision. Integrity completes this set of eight values, and is a key tool in ensuring promises are kept and principles are upheld. Once we are able to deliver what is promised and be more transparent and open with others, we will have built a solid foundation for trust.

I believe that all 8 Values of 1Malaysia - A Culture of Excellence, Perseverance, Humility, Acceptance, Loyalty, Meritocracy, Education, and Integrity - are paramount in our collective efforts to add value to Malaysia as a developing nation. No one single Value can be imbued without the other in order for 1Malaysia to truly take shape. While these Values have long been taught in our culture, the application of these Values must be renewed. I urge all Malaysians to inculcate and cultivate these Values in our daily practices and actions not just amongst close friends and family, but in the workplace and our community at large.

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I have just returned from Pattaya where I was to have attended the ASEAN Leaders Summit beginning formally yesterday. You will have seen from the media how "red shirt" protestors made it impossible for us to proceed. It was unfortunate that my meetings were cancelled one after the other as leaders could not leave or enter the conference venue. Luckily, with the assistance of the Thai armed forces and police, we made it safely to the airport en route home. As we took off, I reflected with great concern how domestic political challenges like these can impede the good work of a regional grouping like ASEAN - and delay the benefits of closer integration for hundreds of millions living and working in Southeast Asia.

Last Thursday I announced the members of the new Malaysian cabinet that will be tasked with propelling the country forward in the spirit of 1Malaysia. A number of factors were taken into consideration to ensure that the cabinet is truly a People's Cabinet, able to serve the rakyat fairly and effectively, and will strive to propel the country forward, leaving no one behind.

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