“””Veteran Journalist Questions The Straits Times’ Shift Away from Daily Editorials After 170 Years”” “

SINGAPORE: In a recent social media post, Bertha Henson, former Associate Editor of The Straits Times (ST), raised concerns about the newspaper’s recent decision to discontinue its daily editorials, known as the “daily leader.” The change marks the end of a tradition spanning more than 170 years, and Henson expressed disappointment over the shift, which she feels has diminished the paper’s role in leading public discourse.

Reflecting on her years as a news editor at ST and as a lecturer at the National University of Singapore, Henson highlighted that the daily editorials set mainstream media apart by showcasing its analytical depth and insight into current events. She noted, “It’s a hallmark of established media, a place for readers to gauge its stance on daily issues, especially in a fast-moving society.” The discontinuation, Henson admitted, went unnoticed by her until a friend recently brought it to her attention.

Henson also shared nostalgia for the era when ST’s editorials were more bold and influential, particularly during the 1960s and 1970s, when they often set the tone for societal discussions. “It’s difficult to imagine that journalists have no opinions or that there are no issues worth dissecting,” she said, adding that an editorial space is essential for readers seeking the media’s perspective on the day’s pressing matters. “Just like watching Parliament, readers may not always turn to it, but it’s important that it’s there when they do,” she remarked.

In her post, Henson suggested that recent editorials in The Straits Times have tended to avoid local issues, favoring broader themes like environmental topics and Artificial Intelligence. “We seem to be engaging in safe debates, topics that won’t shake the societal foundation,” she observed.

Henson, who now frequently shares media critiques on her Facebook page, stated that she too writes less on complex issues, often due to limited information needed to form a fully-informed view. Instead, she focuses on examining ST’s headlines and comparing its reporting with other mainstream sources, sparking lively discussions online. She also acknowledges when ST’s reporting is particularly commendable, giving praise to its writers when deserved.