M. Krishnamoorthy
Media relations trainer, associate professor, and author
(Part 3)
We should not see ourselves and (other) people only from the lens of religion or ethnicity. All human beings stand at the centre of many concentric circles of loyalty and commitment.
Other identities such as profession, employment, neighbourhood, sports, and even hobbies are equally important dimensions of life and existence, said Emeritus Prof Datuk Dr Shad Salem Faruqi.
He is currently holder of the Tunku Abdul Rahman Foundation Chair at University of Malaya.
“Let’s acknowledge and develop these multiple identities. In fact, we must try to develop a world perspective while retaining our loyalty to our nation. Our differences do matter, of course, but our common humanity matters more.”
Here are some ways to UNITE Malaysians, according to Professor Shad Faruqi.
ABHORE RACISM
We need to distinguish between racism (which is hatred for “the other”) and race-consciousness, which is a positive desire to help the upliftment of a community or group, not necessarily our own.
To assist the upliftment of a race, religion or sector of society, we don’t have to bring anyone else down.
ADOPT MODERATION AS A WAY OF LIFE
Moderation is the acceptance of the middle path. It is abhorrence of violence. It is about preferring evolution over revolution. It is about balance and reconciliation as opposed to a militant, uncompromising attitude.
HUMAN RIGHTS FOR ALL
We need to develop respect for human rights – not only our rights but also the rights of others. Whenever our rights or expectations clash with others, we need to put ourselves in the shoes of others. We need to view the world through their eyes and feel their pain. We need to be objective.
SOCIAL ENGAGEMENT
But we must have the full realisation that differences of opinion are natural. Nobody has a monopoly on the truth. Truth is multiple. Everything we hear is an opinion, not a fact. Everything we see is a perspective, not the absolute truth.
DO NOT CONDEMN OTHER FAITHS
Do not resort to hate speech. To belittle is to be little. And don’t forget: vilifying others is a game that two can play. For example, as a Muslim, I am told in Surah An’aam: 108 “Do not revile the faith of others, lest they revile yours”.
DO NOT STEREOTYPE A RACE OR RELIGION
Separate the acts of an individual from his race or religion. Distinguish the faith from the faithful. There are good people in all races and religions.
Be the change you wish to see in the world. I urge you to speak up against injustice, racism, and religious bigotry. Whenever one person steps up and says: “Wait a minute, this is wrong”, that helps others to do the same. This is the ripple effect. If you cast a stone across the vast lake, you never know how far the ripples will go. In the desert a single blade of grass often causes a sand dune to grow.
DON’T WAIT FOR THE LAWS TO CHANGE
It is not the laws that bring justice. It is people who through courage and perseverance bring justice to the law.
CHOOSE MODERATION
Finally, whether to love or hate, to be moderate or extremist – the choice is ours. Our Constitution, our religions, our cultures, and our history have enough in them to enable us to lead lives of moderation and restraint in everything we do. We need to build bridges and dismantle walls; to heal and reconcile and treat each other with mutual respect. To quote Kofi Annan: “As we walk through the meadows of our mind, let us confront ignorance with knowledge, bigotry with tolerance, and isolation with the outstretched hand of generosity”.
Freelance Writer M. Krishnamoorthy (www.imkrishna.net) is a media coach, associate professor, and undercover journalist. He has freelanced with Bernama, NST, The Star, and Malaysiakini. He also freelances as a fixer/coordinator for CNN, BBC, German and Australian Television networks and the New York Times. As an undercover journalist, he has highlighted society's concerns going undercover as a beggar, security guard, blind man, disabled salesman and Member of Parliament.
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