I was there when Yeo Toon Joo shouted, “Out!” at those still working in the newsroom.
I was beside T.S. Khoo when he called off production of the New Nation as the unions continued their go-slow. I was amazed that journalists at the New Nation would mount industrial action so soon after the company had committed a lot of funds towards the publication of a serious afternoon daily for which advertising and circulation were difficult to secure; some of them were having their first job!
The picketers were vociferous and threatening, abusing management staff, especially the expatriates, as they left the company premises in their cars to go home. I escaped their wrath because I was discussing the weekend’s racing with photographer Kok Ah Chong at a watering hole!
This book by Clement Mesenas gives vivid details of the strike. For those who were not involved or never went through the period of strikes, it is a thrilling account of what went on and gives thought to the comments freelance writer Trish Shephard made.
Over the years The Straits Times has won many awards for writing, layout and photography work within the mission that “every publication of The Straits Times is a leader in its field”. But the journalists were to learn that the paper’s success was not just in journalism. Our print quality was so high that Rupert Murdoch took home samples for his staff to emulate, during a visit to Times House.
Today, The Straits Times continues to operate profitably as it maintains its lead in advertising. Circulation and readership may slide in the face of competitive alternatives and lower proficiency in English, but high editorial standards and credibility will continue to help the paper remain relevant for many years to come.
Denis Tay
former deputy president, Singapore Press Holdings (now retired)