What’s happening to us Malaysians?

We should never allow the economic and social progress to overwhelm our celebrated Eastern values and collectivist spirits.

COMMENT

By Concerned Youth

As a young child growing up in an emerging town in Perak, I recall being surrounded by a supportive, close-knit and value-oriented community. Easy-going conversations with fellow Kamparians sparked bright moments, as smiles were carved all around.

As the young ones roamed around with friends, neighbours and community members monitored their activities, always ready to approach and advise in case improper or dangerous activities were suspected of being conducted. At schools, teachers paid close attention to the behaviour of students. I vividly remember an episode where my Mathematics teacher publicly advocated to the whole class to always show appreciation to people by saying ‘thank you’.

Today, the world, and Malaysia especially, has changed tremendously. In terms of technology, comfort and accessibility, we may claim that we have progressed. But how consistent have we been in maintaining our value orientation? Five to 10 years ago, there was an emphasis on highlighting the Eastern hospitality and values in Malaysia to attract the attention of investors and tourists alike. Yet today, the situation is worsening. Although government agencies, NGOs and the media are trying their best to ensure we display the nurtured values, the public mindset has shifted, as observed in our environment.

Over the years, communication methods have made for greater convenience. The creation of handphones, followed by variations of smartphones with complementing applications have made lives easier. Also, an abundance of technological gadgets and software has helped Malaysians carry out their duties and responsibilities quickly. Along the way, we have also been able to showcase our creativity in new areas, such as digital business and production of creative content.

Consequently, we have been provided with excess freedom to explicate on our emotions and experiences, intended to be shared with others. Yet, a significant number of us Malaysians, regardless of generation, are resorting to an open display of information or feedback-sharing. This occurs particularly on social media platforms, such as Facebook, WhatsApp, Twitter and other user-based applications whereby users are free to comment, critique and discuss on on-going or arising issues.

Although the concept of information-sharing via social media is noble indeed, the fact that a majority of Malaysian users are using the platforms to express their opinions via derogatory, insensitive and aggressive terms is worrisome. Not to mention, these comments and opinions are publicly shared and can be accessed by anyone. By directly arguing and engaging in open fault-finding using defamatory, degrading and unflattering terms, we Malaysians are being swayed to communicate in a disdainful manner.

Thus, the impact can be seen in the way we interact with each other, and possibly in the future, as the younger generation is influenced by the current ‘idols’, who may not actually represent the best moral values and exemplary display of humility.

Also, it is common nowadays to see negative or immoral acts criticised, yet not channeled in the most concise manner. As compared with the nurturing style of the past, in which community members instilled a sense of respect among the younger generation and gave advice accordingly, the approach appears different today. Reacting on media platforms seems to be the norm, rather than actually approaching the misbehaving individuals to address their rightful concerns. This ‘reaction over action’ trend is growing, and as a result, the authorised agencies are continuously blamed for any incidents while we seek to protect our own close circles. While the aforementioned agencies may have to enhance their efforts, we, as Malaysians, must work as a society to ensure the well-being of current and future generation in terms of moral stability and ethical standards.

True enough, the change in time has indeed changed the landscape of Malaysia. But we should never allow the economic and social progress to overwhelm our celebrated Eastern values and collectivist spirits, as our forefathers proudly and strongly preached. A wide smile, a thankful message or a kind gesture are the real hallmarks of being a Malaysian. Let’s continue spreading sweet instances to our fellow countrymen, all the time.

Concerned Youth is an FMT reader.