A bit of context: Veteran journalist, former New Paper and Today editor PN Balji called Ambassador-at-Large Bilahari Kausikan an "undiplomatic diplomat" in a Yahoo article on Nov. 2, 2015:

Balji cited examples of how Bilahari got into verbal tussles with Malaysian politicians and European ambassadors.

Balji added that "no one in government seems to have pulled him back" and wondered whether the government "has come to terms with a man they consider to be a loose cannon who doesn’t have policy-making powers".

While Balji appreciated Bilahari's candour, he insinuated that Bilahari is perhaps a hypocrite. Balji felt that Bilahari is less candid about Singapore's policy missteps, such as public housing policy under Minister Mah Bow Tan and the liberal immigration policy in the late 2000s.

Mothership.sg asked Bilahari for his response.

This is what Bilahari said:

"Unlike most online commentators, I only write on matters where I have some expertise and which may be of use to my compatriots. I see no reason to write just to stir controversy which is what Mr Balji wants me to do."

The end.

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