I HAVE been glued to the TV watching the Olympics. It’s been an exciting time, with world records falling almost every day. What I find fascinating though besides the competition, is the medal ceremony as it triggers random bits of information about the winner’s country.
For example, when I think of China, I think about that little girl who wasn’t “cute enough” for her voice. It must really bug me. Each time Michael Phelps stepped onto the podium, I thought of the Obama-McCain campaigns, the war in Iraq and how multicultural America really is. Australia – great BBQs and humble apologies to its Aboriginals, Italy – pasta, Cuba – cigars …
So what crossed the minds of the rest of the world when Malaysia’s flag was raised? Was it the variety of our food? The beaches? Shopping malls? Our melting pot of cultures? Or, our sad state of affairs?
Of late, the general feeling is that we have lost the plot. After 50 years of independence, we seem to have taken giant leaps backwards – in maturity, in economic and political integration, in social inclusion and in making all citizens feel that they “belong”.
Merdeka and patriotism are not just about putting up mini flags on our cars and raising the Jalur Gemilang in our homes and offices. These are just outward actions. Visible things, not manifestations of what we should be celebrating. A sense of pride – in our achievements, in our rich and vibrant past, in our future, in our principles, in our great desire to protect and preserve our nation’s character.
Instead of focusing on what’s important, we are more concerned about by-elections! Not whatmatters most to our people – peace, security, justice, equity, due process, good governance, accountability, transparency … the list goes on.
We need to always keep the vision alive. And, constantly ask ourselves if the heroes of our country’s history who fought for our nation to be a just and equal society, would be proud of what we have actually become?
It’s about being a people of quality, a thinking nation. We were once the leader among emerging nations, in every way, the crown jewel of the developing world. But we seem to have lost our way. Politics has become a circus because of the politicking that has reached Zimbabwean proportions. Every time our politicians trade the truth, we, as a people and as a nation, lose more than we gain. And, in net terms, it is the future of Malaysia that loses.
We shouldn’t compare ourselves with anyone, but we all compare, have been compared, or get compared with at some point in our lives … if not constantly. So, who is Malaysia comparing itself with? Switzerland? Or the happiest country in the world Denmark? Or, should we be comparing ourselves with countries in lesser positions than us on the international baro-meter for overall performance?
Saying it like it is results in threats and intimidation, generating fear against being vocal. Admittedly of late there has been a lot of negative talk about the state of our country. But is it not possible to love Malaysia and critique it at the same time? Quite like parents who know when to discipline. Maybe the reason there are more critics than ever within our country is that each person who casts a stone truly loves Malaysia and wants us to be better.
But throwing stones alone never did anyone any good. As we celebrate 51 years of independence, let us remember that it came about as a result of inter-dependence. And when we ask questions, let us start by asking the hard ones – like why we cannot welcome – nay, embrace competition. Why we cannot strive to rise above the present depressing state of affairs.
Perhaps in the coming year, we will be a more mature nation, have better healthcare and improved public transport, become better stewards of our environment … and fight for our country, not just our own race.
Perhaps the 52nd year would allow for more equality, discourse and fairness. And when our flag is next raised in the world arena, we may be remembered for our integrity, compassion and equality … among many other good things.
Natalie hopes that revival and the restoration of trust are part of the plot.
Comments: letters@thesundaily.com.
