Open Malaysia

This is absolutely ridiculous. Just like a big bully Microsoft is, they start to complain and throw a tantrum when things don't go their way. [ See pointers #3 and #6 in my "How to Royally Annoy National Bodies" ]

Read this post for the full story from India, entitled: "Microsoft files complaint on OOXML vote to apex office and Ministry of Consumer Affairs"

"I love Microsoft for their sheer willingness to piss off every human being on this planet in their quest for approval of OOXML. At the meeting held on 20th March 2008, we were informed that Microsoft has complained to the Ministry of Consumer Affairs and to the apex office of the country about the constitution of the committee and also cast aspersions on the impartiality of the chairperson of LITD15, Mrs. Neeta Verma."

Hmm.. attacking the Chair. Does that sound familiar?

I am just amazed and shocked by the depths to which Microsoft is willing to descend.

Hey! Now why does that sound so familiar too? It's the second time Ive heard this phrase this week. I think I may hear it a few more times before the week is up

"I would also like to point out that the academia and government bodies have comprehensively voted against OOXML after spending more than a year reviewing it"

This is a certain trend in NB's. The moment you have groups of no vested commercial interests, they will find issues with OOXML. However:

"The only group to vote in favor of OOXML was the software exports group and that too on the basis of “support for multiple standards,” an argument which had no relevance because the committee was asked to review OOXML on technical merits and national interest."

This is exactly the same case here! These software exports groups just turn up and say the silliest reasons and expect to get away with it. Sorry guys. Technical Committees means Technical issues.

It's so sad to see such a wealthy and powerful company do things like this. Don't they have Corporate Governance rules against doing stupid things like this? Where is their conscience? Who do they think they can fool? Those Microsoft guys should be fired.

Well done to the Bureau of Indian Standards for standing firm against this raging bully. Hopefully one day the bully will learn how to play fair and contribute positively to the standards process, and not try to manipulate its way in.

Truly despicable behaviour. Shame on you, Microsoft, yet again. How will we ever trust you?

yk.