PETALING JAYA: A sociologist has lauded Putrajaya’s proposed introduction of a concord charter, however says extra concrete actions are wanted to foster nationwide concord.
Syed Farid Alatas, a professor of sociology on the National University of Singapore, mentioned the federal government must go “past rhetoric and symbolism” and put in place substantive adjustments that actively promote inclusivity.
“This entails specializing in implementing insurance policies and initiatives that foster real unity and social cohesion.
“While the proposal for a concord charter is a constructive step ahead, its success in the end depends upon its capability to translate lofty beliefs into significant motion,” he informed eNM.
On March 20, nationwide unity minister Aaron Ago Dagang mentioned his ministry and the Institute of Islamic Understanding Malaysia have been within the midst of a examine of the proposed charter.
He mentioned this concord charter may type a information for the institution of a peaceable and harmonious nation, which might result in Malaysia’s future prosperity.
Farid mentioned the federal government ought to look to rejoice Malaysia’s spiritual variety as a supply of energy underneath the proposed charter.
“No single faith ought to declare superiority or exclusivity, as such claims can exacerbate tensions and hinder efforts in the direction of concord.
“Instead, fostering mutual respect, tolerance and dialogue amongst spiritual communities is crucial for selling peaceable coexistence,” mentioned Farid, the son of the late educational, sociologist and Gerakan co-founder, Syed Hussein Alatas.
Meanwhile, fellow sociologist Denison Jayasooria of Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia mentioned a concord charter was vital and ought to be based upon the ideas of the Rukun Negara and Federal Constitution.
However, he blamed the disharmony within the nation on one thing else: politics.
“While a up to date charter or collective assertion might be useful, the principle situation lies not in its absence, however somewhat within the weak political management in sustaining a center floor.
“Also, public training, notably in civic citizenship, is crucial, together with neutral enforcement,” he mentioned.
Farid and Denison additionally dismissed Subang MP Wong Chen’s views that Malaysia’s racial and non secular points would subside as soon as the nation’s center class will increase and strengthens.
Both sociologists agreed that solely bolstering this financial group and lifting Malaysians into the center class won’t resolve racial disharmony.
“While a robust center class can contribute to stability and social cohesion, it’s essential to recognise that financial components alone can not resolve deeply ingrained racial tensions,” mentioned Farid.
Denison identified that the affluence of white Americans and the rising center class in India haven’t essentially led to larger social cohesion in both nation.
“While financial components might affect social cohesion to some extent, it’s not the entire image. We have to prioritise public training on nationwide and civil issues.
“It’s very important for residents to be well-informed about their rights and duties in fostering a harmonious society,” he mentioned.
