The Faces That Give Malaysians Hope Of A Better Future

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A politically-induced paranoia appears to be sweeping the nation. So far, it is mainly evident in a small group of Malaysians who have chosen to put on their blinkers and unsurprisingly decided to see only what they want to see and interpret it in a way that whets their appetite for bigotry.
Umno Youth leader Dr Akmal Saleh is now the de facto leader of this bunch. His brash style of politicking is obviously aimed at giving him the aura of a champion of Muslims. He also appears to be the self-appointed guardian of Islam in Malaysia.
He has used crowd psychology effectively to defy the authorities by focusing on defending the religion, to avoid being accused of whipping up the crowds. Honestly, he seems to have a group of blind loyalists who seem oblivious to how the nation can be so easily destroyed.
After the paranoia about socks, Akmal jumped into the footwear issue which appeared to have stemmed from one ignorant Malaysian looking for a minute of fame. Now netizens are talking of having to scrutinise patterns on all their garments when shopping.
A closer look at the controversial pattern which they claimed showed the Arabic script for Allah on the sole would have shown that it was not. But no, they decided to go public with it first, knowing full well of the consequences.
The shoe manufacturer did the right thing to diffuse the situation by promptly coming out with an explanation and an apology. But many wonder why he was forced to apologise for something he did not do or meant to do.
Many Malaysians applauded the manufacturer’s magnanimity. Otherwise, the possibility of the mob-mentality of some blind loyalists taking to the streets is real enough in today’s political climate.
It looks like we are living in a time where might is right. Sad but true.
The military veteran
Amidst the hullabaloo over the interpretation of shapes and holy words that sent social media into a frenzy, a serious-looking former army major, Mustapha Ali, sent out a simple Hari Raya message in a crisp manner befitting a loyal soldier.
The message went viral immediately, showing that Malaysians thirst for sanity. Mustapha’s message helped to calm Malay-Muslim voices, which will contribute to bringing down the heated temperature on social media.
In delivering his message, he donned an army T-shirt and wore his military cap to show he meant business. His message read:
“I believe I am speaking on behalf of veterans who fought against the country’s enemies during the Emergency, Indonesian confrontation and the communist insurgency until their official surrender in 1989.
“We put our lives on the line for our beloved nation and successfully achieved peace and harmony for all Malaysians. Armed forces veterans are beyond race and religion. And we would like to maintain this hard-earned respect nationwide.
“So, to all politicians and any undesirable elements who are ignorant of our sacrifices, we urge you to stop. I say again, stop. This racial and religious polarisation seems to have gone too far. It will not benefit anyone. Selamat Hari Raya.”
Let me tell you that Mustapha’s carefully chosen words are a balm for the pain that many Malaysians have been going through lately. There is just too much hurt as a result of politicians taking matters into their own hands and shooting their mouths off indiscriminately.
The academic and his wife
Many Malaysians who are yearning for a peaceful country devoid of racism and bigotry were also touched by the open Hari Raya message from academic and prominent columnist Tajuddin Rasdi and his wife.
In a show of utmost humility, they asked for forgiveness from non-Muslims for the sake of their religion, children, grandchildren and for the sake of our country.
In a passionate tone, he hoped that Malaysians can forgive the excesses and uncouth behaviour of a handful of Muslims who he says “do not know their own religion.”
He said he has been troubled by the socks incident and some viral clips showing the ugly side of Malaysians. Tajuddin said Malaysians may have big homes and cars, but without respect for each other, there is no nation.
The Muslim convert
Then came another story published by FMT that warmed many hearts. It was how Dr Aarthi Edward, who was brought up as a Hindu but became a Muslim after marrying Amir Omar, continues with her past cultural activities harmoniously with her new religious obligations.
After nearly five years of marriage, Aarthi and Amir’s commitment to preserving their cultural identities extends to their two daughters, who are being raised with an appreciation for both Indian and Malay-Muslim cultures.
In essence, the actions of Mustapha, Tajuddin and his wife, and Aarti and Amir are breath of fresh air for a nation that’s being stifled by bigoted actions of a few politicians and netizens who don’t seem to care for the wellbeing of the country.
They give me hope that the worst can be overcome if more good people like them speak up to save the nation from ending up as a failed state eventually.
Selamat Hari Raya, everyone! Maaf Zahir dan Batin. - FMT
The views expressed are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of MMKtT.

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