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So, even Singapore Straits Times is buying what Joceline Tan has been trying to sell:

The Star recently reported that Mr Jeff Ooi, 45, a pioneer in citizen journalism blogging, is being courted as a new talent for DAP, although he was quoted as saying he was neither willing nor ready.

Mr Ooi runs one of the best-read Malaysian blogs, and is fearless in tackling the issues of the day from the Mahathir-Abdullah clash to a close look at PM Abdullah's track record.

And Dr Mahathir, Malaysiakini's Newsmaker 2006, should get the credit for rallying up bloggers' counter. Quote Carolyn Hong:

Because of the popularity and perceived credibility of such blogs, bloggers now find themselves courted by politicians, including Tun Dr Mahathir.

He was instrumental in pushing Internet usage in Malaysia and is astutely aware of the impact of the Net, having been on the receiving end during the Anwar Ibrahim saga.

Bloggers now sit side by side journalists at his press conferences as he includes them in his media mailing list. Sometimes, bloggers are even the first to be informed of his latest statements in his attacks on PM Abdullah, leaving the traditional media to pick up stories later.

Bloggers should take it as a compliment and play the role a notch better in 2007. And this is what Malaysiakini says of its Newsmaker 2006:

At the moment, things appear to be calm although Abdullah recently vented his frustration about “the old man” in an interview with Thai newspaper Bangkok Post. [...]

Will our hero remain silent or is he waiting for the opportune moment to launch a new wave of attacks?

It is well-known that the word ‘surrender’ does not exist in the octogenarian’s vocabulary. Brace yourself for Round Two.

Bloggers, be on guard.