Cultural event: Bon Odori has been organised in Malaysia since 1977 by Japanese expatriates. — ZHAFARAN NASIB/The Star
The Rulers have spoken, so there’s no chance for Malaysians to be denied a cultural experience.
WHEN Datuk Idris Ahmad, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs), made the announcement that Muslims should stay away from the Bon Odori festival in Selangor, the PAS leader obviously had no idea how far he had overstepped his authority.
Wong Chun Wai
Wong Chun Wai began his career as a journalist in Penang, and has served The Star for over 35 years in various capacities and roles. He is now group editorial and corporate affairs adviser to the group, after having served as group managing director/chief executive officer. On The Beat made its debut on Feb 23 1997 and Chun Wai has penned the column weekly without a break, except for the occasional press holiday when the paper was not published. In May 2011, a compilation of selected articles of On The Beat was published as a book and launched in conjunction with his 50th birthday. Chun Wai also comments on current issues in The Star.
