THE spirit of Merdeka is upon us yet again as Malaysia gets
ready to celebrate 56 years of Independence. There are many reasons why one
feels at home in Malaysia. It is one of the most peaceful countries in the
world, with a stable political environment.
Malaysia is one of the few countries in the world today with a pretty good
track record in dealing with a vibrant multiracial and multicultural
society.
Over the last decade the landscape has transformed dramatically. New
buildings are sprouting like mushrooms. Rain or shine, the city streets and
plazas bustle with the pulse and patter of urban life. Technology has become
inherently intertwined with daily routines; social networking groups such as
Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc are a norm today.
And regardless of the overwhelming odds, Malaysia has matured into an
economic powerhouse boasting an ever-increasing gross domestic product (GDP),
sturdy currency, a lower unemployment rate as compared to the US and the EU, and
a rich and diverse culture.
With all that Malaysia has to offer, the young professionals in their
twenties and thirties are defining themselves as individuals, as members of a
community, and as Malaysians bringing with them their skills, idealism and
dedication to contribute to a society that is at the forefront of global
technology and education. In short, it is our positive 'can do' attitude which
lies behind some of our biggest achievements. Nalini Elumalai, Executive Director of SUARAM
"Today, we are more aware of what is going on in our country thanks to the
internet and social media. And we can make choices faster than our predecessors.
Our young are more active in bringing about change. They are voicing out their
opinions and views. Politics is becoming less of a taboo subject and the younger
generation are now more actively involved in politics as compared to the past
where people tend to stay away from it. Though I believe that we, the younger
generation, should stand up and speak out more instead of just using the
internet as an outlet. We need to be brave and demand equal rights for all
Malaysians." Nurul Izzah Anwar, Member of Parliament for Lembah
Pantai
"The speed and ease of internet access has influenced the way people think
and communicate with one another. Even the simple mobile phone - once only used
for SMS and calls is now an important device for social interaction and as a
tool for work. If you take the mobile phone away from an urbanite just for one
day, I believe that he or she will not be able to function normally. That is how
much technology has influenced us all.
"As a digital migrant and a daughter from the years of the Reformasi
movement, I am fortunate enough to see the changes in Malaysia's landscape in
Kuala Lumpur from squatters to high-rise buildings as well as the transition
from greenery to a concrete jungle. Unfortunately, this mental leap has not kept
up with the importance of sustainable development. Hence the need to
continuously update our thinking and having the necessary political will to
manage development so it does not negatively affect our heritage." Datuk Chua Tee Yong, Member of Parliament for Labis
"The fact that Malaysia has transformed so much in terms of technology,
wealth and education in such a short time is a sign of hope. But are we happy as
we progress? This question has spurred the government to look into whether this
boom includes the well being of our people in terms of living standards and
conditions. We are also switching our emphasis to work together in order to
ensure the happiness of all Malaysians as we move forward towards greater
progress. We aim to implement new ideas in order to instill unity and patriotism
among our young by using the tools of today such as the internet and social
media, as this is crucial in order for us to progress as a united nation." Roshan Chandrasekhar of K-Town Klan
"As a musician and entrepreneur, I feel that Malaysia's technology has come a
long way. It has made things a lot easier in terms of circulating my music and
running a business. Heck, its made things a lot easier for everybody. But even
with all the plus points, I deeply feel that the world is moving too fast. We
need to slow down and appreciate the simple things in life to maintain a
balance."
Yes, as a young country, Malaysia pretty much has everything it takes to be a
successful, affluent and democratic country. It all depends on us, on whether we
continue to develop a clear and shared vision, uphold a long term commitment to
travelling the long road to reform, and refuse to be deterred by the problems
that will inevitably arise, then there is no reason why we can't transform our
country within a generation.
So as Malaysians, let us continue to work together not just with tolerance,
but with respect to better ourselves for the benefit of our people and
nation.
http://www.thesundaily.my/news/816723