DATUK SERI (DR.) ENG WEI CHUN – DISPELLING THE FOG OF NEGATIVE RHETORIC
In recent years, I have noticed a strange phenomenon: the public tends to express criticism of the country in their speech, while overlooking the praise for the country.
It’s like when I was on a business trip to several countries, and my foreign friend mentioned that their Malaysian friends frequently complained about the hardships and injustices of their lives in Malaysia. Some even speak negatively about the country’s image.
Let’s not discuss whether their complaints are based on fact or simply ‘pride and prejudice,’, but constantly voicing negative opinions about one’s own country while abroad is unhealthy.
Tarnishing your own country’s affairs and national matters not only fails to earn sympathy, but it also makes people look down on you. If we want to become a developed nation, we must stop constantly criticizing our country. Instead, we should focus on quietly contributing to our nation’s growth rather than waiting for the country to do something for us. According to statistics, our country spends around 100,000 Malaysian Ringgit per student, regardless of race or religion, and this doesn’t even include the costs of attending local universities. This shows that the country has been quietly investing in our growth and education.
As responsible citizens, we should not damage the country’s image; family matters should not be aired in public. Each of us has a responsibility to uphold the country’s image, set a positive example, and contribute meaningfully to the nation. As the ancient saying goes: “A gentleman lives with ease and works diligently, not rushingwith haste.” This means that when criticizing an event, we should maintain neutrality. Criticism is meant to bring improvement, but excessive criticism can lead to imbalance and create a negative cycle. This phrase emphasizes balance and humility, which could be an important lesson when expressing concern over national issues.
We might want to consider whether excessive criticism truly benefits to the nation’s development. While expressing dissatisfaction, should we also focus more on the nation’s strengths and progress? Freedom of speech comes with the responsibility to use our words wisely. In an era of globalization, a country’s international image is crucial for attracting foreign investment, boosting economy growth, and drawing tourists. Therefore, maintaining and enhancing the national image is a task that requires collective effort—one that involves not only proactive effort from the government but also thoughtful and constructive expression from its citizens.
When expressing our views on the country, we can incorporate some positive feedback alongside our demands, allowing foreigners to gain a more comprehensive understanding of our nation. This not only helps improve the international image, but also strengthens international friendships and attracts foreign investment. On the other hand, constant criticism will drive foreign investors away, much like a spoiled child at home who is of no help and only drives guests away. A good national image is benefit us all. As I mentioned at the beginning, citizens of developed countries don’t degrade their own nation. The strong contribute, while the weak wait for help and complain. We must become the strong ones and move toward becoming a developed country.
As responsible citizens of Malaysia, we should actively highlight the strengths of our nation when introducing it to foreigners. We can share about our rich and diverse culture, the delicious and varied cuisine, the stunning natural landscapes, and Malaysia’s spirit of moderation and inclusivity. We should also commend Malaysia’s education system, which is considered above average among developing countries.
In shaping the national image, we also need to strengthen the role of education. Through education, we can enhance civic awareness, cultivate a sense of national identity and pride, and enable citizens to view the country’s shortcomings more rationally while contributing to the country’s progress and development.
We must also understand that there is no perfect country—only countries striving for progress. When facing problems, we should actively engage in finding solutions and contribute our small efforts to the nation’s development.
While expressing our demands, we should rationally acknowledge the country’s progress, focus on the positive aspects of society, and work towards building a harmonious and prosperous nation.
In general, the political ideology of any country is a reflection of its society, and society itself is shaped by its people. A society shapes its political stage. Therefore, every citizen has the responsibility to reflect on themselves and set a good example.
As the saying goes, “Cultivate oneself, manage the family, and bring peace to the world.” Constant criticism and complaints are more harmful than helpful. We should lead by example, always be careful with our words and actions, as this is the basic principle of life.
Translated from original article source:
