Privacy (We Love Gossiping and Spreading Rumours)

            Every school break, it has been a cultural norm in our country, and many other counties, to send wedding invitations to relatives, neighbours, friends and colleagues. A wedding ceremony celebrates newlyweds on the best day of their lives. It is an event that brings people closer as relatives gather and long-lost friends reunite.

While children expect goodies, adults look forward to gossip. For the latter, it is a perfect time to update themselves with interesting news, especially those that are the talk of the town. As a result, assumptions and remarks are made, and questions are asked. Examples include: “When are you going to ditch your unmarried status?”, “Shouldn’t you have at least one child by now?” and “I heard her husband cheated on her!”.

Regardless of whether the remarks happen before or behind the individuals concerned, we should not spread rumours or pose suggestive questions in public, especially during happy occasions, as we have no right to intrude into their lives.

These insensitive people may try to show care and concern, but they end up making someone feel uncomfortable and awkward. In fact, it will become even more uncomfortable when the guests asking the questions are those they hardly know. If we intend to be friendly, it is better to offer compliments or to talk about general issues. We should avoid using offensive remarks, even in a casual conversation.

If we find it hard to be sensitive to the feelings of those who share the same race or religion with us, it will be harder for us to avoid prejudice, stereotyping and discrimination against other races and religions. 

Although we gained independence more than 50 years ago, we still fail to be grateful for the blessings of living as one in a peaceful country. Our manners show who we really are, while our words and actions mirror our attitude and personality. By saying hurtful remarks and asking insensitive questions, we have exhibited our selfishness, ignorance and disrespect towards others.

When we make those remarks, we may be joking, but cheap jokes are not funny. When we ask those questions, we may be teasing, but the teasing makes someone take the matter personally.

The writer (in red t-shirt) believes that a beautiful camaraderie
 makes life a wonderful journey.

It is important for us to know that when we ask about somebody’s private life in public, the person will not only be surprised, but he will also feel humiliated and inferior. If we choose to talk about personal matters, we may approach the person and give advice and encouragement. This will more likely make the person feel thankful for the moral support.    

We should respect everyone else’s privacy as we want others to respect ours.

Courtesy of New Straits Times

5 December 2014

Work Ethics Need Improvement Despite Full Employment Rate

The writer believes that a beautiful camaraderie
makes life a wonderful journey.

         Malaysia secured a 2.7 per cent unemployment rate in the third quarter (NST, Nov 28) and according to the report, we are under the zero-employment rate category. The results get better each year but there is still much to be done before we heave a sigh of relief once every Malaysian secures of a job to eke out a living.

            In the past few months, public and private universities have held their convocations. Diploma and degree holders have been busy writing application letters and preparing resumes. These fresh graduates are eager to start working but when it comes to job hunting, there are, generally speaking, two categories of applicants: the non-selective and the selective.

Some fresh graduates are grateful to receive a job offer even if the job is not quite related to their discipline, as they take into consideration the tough competition in the job market. They believe that beggars cannot be choosers and it is okay to start from scratch.

Others are selective and demanding and only consider certain offers that meet their dream-job criteria. These choosy jobseekers would rather be unemployed than accept a mediocre offer.

            Those who only believe in high-flying careers are the reason why a country needs to hire immigrants to fill up vacancies in different fields, industries and sectors to make up for insufficient manpower. Some immigrants are hired under legal contracts while others are illegally recruited by greedy and irresponsible individuals to work as maids or labourers. Worse, illegal immigrants are duped or forced into criminal activities, such as prostitution and illegal land clearing, and example of which can be found in the recent Cameron Highlands tragedy.

As for hired employees, problems arise when some employees do not practise good work ethics. In this era, many expect easy money and only a few believe in starting from the bottom to get to the top. Some employees want to be promoted but do nothing to improve their performance. Also, there are workers who cheat in their time and attendance by gossiping during working hours or having someone else clock in for them when they are late for work or leave early. These employees neglect their responsibilities and sacrifice work ethics without guilt.

For a meaningful work experience, consistent effort, effective superior-subordinate communication and strong camaraderie between colleagues need to be developed by every member of the organisation to ensure productivity and harmony in the workplace. It is crucial for both employers and employees to make work principles and ethics their top priority. 

Employers need to practise good leadership and avoid discrimination or favouritism in the workplace. All employees should be given a chance to contribute ideas, regardless of their positions in the organisation, for instance. This will not only encourage everyone to share opinions but it will also create a stress-free work environment as everyone receives equal treatment.

Author Stephen Covey said: “Always treat your employees exactly as you want them to treat your best customers”.

Courtesy of New Straits Times

4 December 2014

FILM CENSORSHIP (Strong Values Make A Movie Count)

The writer believes that a beautiful camaraderie
makes life a wonderful journey.

            I refer to the letter “Don’t sacrifice moral values” (NST, Nov 26) by Ariff Shah R.K and admire his viewpoints regarding the importance of film censorship.

            Besides playing games and listening to music, watching movies is another source of entertainment that can give someone a break from a hectic life or perhaps, an idea on how to live life. The first reason may sound purposeful but the latter may be harmful, especially to young viewers who are easily influenced. 

      It is wonderful if these children learn good lessons from inspiring movies but schoolchildren nowadays are apparently more attracted to flicks that focus on fights, romance or superstition. These movie genres will pose a risk to children’s mental well-being and their lifestyle.  

            For the sake of profit, film producers will do everything to allure moviegoers to make the cinema a full house. It is frustrating that some movies have good storylines but the indecent act and inappropriate language used to convey meanings affect the overall quality. Moviemakers think that by portraying different kinds of scenes, including pornography and violence, it is a creative move to make the film a high quality piece, but they are wrong. Instead, it is a cheap strategy to make their production a box-office hit.

            Social problems and criminal acts have become daily news reported in newspapers, radio channels and television stations. There are several reasons for these negative phenomena and the influence from movies may be a contributing factor. 

           Rape, bullying, robbery, snatch theft and drug trafficking are now a common culture in movies, only to result in immature audiences imitating the acts in real life. In fact, it has become a trend for tech-savvy youth to record their unscrupulous behavior and upload the video to websites before it goes viral in a split second.              

             For a better selection during a family or friends gathering, cartoons and animation feature films may be suitable options, as long as sensitive issues are not touched. Doraemon, SpongeBob SquarePants and Upin & Ipin are television programmes that turn a moody atmosphere into a happier mood. Animated movies like Brave, The Lion King and Finding Nemo are examples of high-grossing movies that are rich with good messages. 

            Malaysian film directors may need to start working on films without controversial scenes. Profits should not be the only concern as there are many other aspects that need to be taken into consideration. Also, elements of gangsterism and offensive content should not be included as they will not bring any good to viewers.

Life is full of values and our country has plenty to promote. Heritage, nature, tourism, unity and education are themes that can teach someone appreciation and gratefulness.

At the end of the day, it is the film’s strong values that make the hours count.  

Courtesy of New Straits Times

1 December 2014

Monsoon Season (Caution, Care Must Prevail)

The writer believes that a beautiful camaraderie
makes life a wonderful journey.

            It is November and some countries welcome Thanksgiving, but in Malaysia, it marks the beginning of the monsoon season. The whole country will be affected by the season with those in the peninsula's east coast – Kelantan, Terengganu and Pahang – being more likely to experience bad weather that will result in floods. In preparation for these worrying weather patterns, it is advisable for everyone to gear up and take steps to deal with this catastrophe.

            While adults feel anxious about negative consequences, some children may jump for joy in the rain and swim in floodwaters. Little do these children know that their excitement may lead to tragedy. Hence, parents need to watch over their children, bearing in their mind that (despite being able to swim) they cannot treat floodwaters like a water park. People die from drowning every year. Thus, we should be aware of the risk so that our family members will not be swept away by strong currents.

According to news reports, Terengganu has lost three lives from the recent floods, including the death of a disabled man few days ago. It is hoped the number will not increase. For those living in flood-prone areas, they need to leave their house immediately during a prolonged downpour before the situation gets worse.

Road accidents are a frequent occurrence, especially during the rainy season. Some are minor mishaps while others are major tragedies. Speeding and reckless driving may endanger the lives of the brash drivers and other road users alike. Everyone should realise that slippery roads may cause hydroplaning when one accelerates impatiently.

As a preventive measure, road users should avoid choosing the routes with high risk of flooding. Vehicles may be crawling on the road this season and it is unethical for us to lose our temper by honking or hurling insults at other road users who drive slower than normal because of slippery roads. We need to practise tolerance and kindness so that all of us can reach our destinations safely.

Those who usually go out late for work may need to leave earlier to avoid traffic congestion. Even if they are late for work or an event, they still need to adhere to road safety. After all, it’s better late than never.

It is hoped that the authorities will help make things better for the public. Traffic police may need to control main roads, especially during peak hours to ensure smooth traffic. The security authorities in each state also need to monitor residents living in low-lying areas for any possibility of floods.

          We have gone through a series of disasters through the year and we should all be geared up to face this one before we end 2014.

Courtesy of New Straits Times

24 November 2014

Integrity (Instil High Principles in Children)

The writer believes that a beautiful camaraderie
makes life a wonderful journey.

            The advice of the chief invigilator to all candidates when I was sitting for my Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia exam a long time ago is still fresh in my mind. He said: “You may be happy now for cheating without being caught, but is it going to be worth making a lot of money from the tainted results you achieved in the past?”

            Among 455,839 candidates sitting for SPM this year, some may fail to maintain their integrity in producing results with high validity. Cheating in public examinations can be as serious as smuggling notes into the exam hall or as common as glancing at other candidates’ question papers to copy answers. Those displaying suspicious or eccentric behaviours will be identified as potential cheaters, who may be charged for violating examination rules.

            Students cheat for various reasons. Some students want to impress their parents, teachers and friends with their outstanding results. Others are desperate for a maximum number of As to qualify for a place in university. Yet, others study at the eleventh hour and experience mental block when reading the questions. 

Regardless of their reasons, there is no excuse for cheating. Invigilators need to keep an eye on candidates for any attempt to break exam rules. A zero-tolerance policy must be applied on cheaters who are caught red-handed during the examinations. The action against the culprits should serve as a warning and a lesson to others. It is also to remind everyone that cheating is not a trivial matter.

The writer and friends during SPM once upon a time...

This moral principle should be instilled in students early. When they start college or pursue a career, some unethical friends may offer them shortcuts to score an easy A or to make easy money, and it will cost their integrity to achieve their goals. When they get used to the habit, they will start enjoying their “fast-track” life without considering the negative implications of their actions.

            Corruption, which is the result of low integrity, is a heinous crime that has been in the limelight for too long. This fraudulent conduct invites chaos in the society and affects a country’s economic growth. Individuals involved in this conspiracy enjoy their ill-gotten gains while sacrificing business ethics. 

            Before teenagers leave school, we need to plant integrity in their hearts and minds, for they are the ones who will either make or break our country’s future.

Courtesy of New Straits Times

15 November 2014

What Will Happen If We Lose Trees?

The writer believes that a beautiful camaraderie
makes life a wonderful journey.

            In the blink of an eye, the beauty of Cameron Highlands has been washed away by mud floods and landslides. The four people who died in the disaster have paid the price for the illegal land clearers and loggers' irresponsible acts. 

        While Cameron Highlands is recovering from the damage, we need to prevent the same from befalling other places.

            The perpetrators may be brought to justice, but the crime is likely to be committed again by others in other areas.

            When one’s right is violated, we take the matter seriously and defend the victim, but how many of us would help save nature when its habitat is threatened? 

           We cannot imagine our life without the person we love but will we feel the same if we lose trees, which are sources of our oxygen?

There is no doubt that human beings need nature to live. Maintaining good relationships with other people is as important as strengthening our ecosystem. The practice of illegal logging will only disrupt the ecological balance while the presence of illegal dumpsites near a river can cause water pollution and bring discomfort to residents living around the area with the pungent smells.

It is our responsibility to preserve the environment and the wildlife.

As biologist Edward O. Wilson said: “The earth is our home. Unless we preserve the rest of life, as a sacred duty, we will be endangering ourselves by destroying the home in which we evolved, and on which we completely depend.”

The writer and friends in Cameron Highlands 7 years ago.

Previous campaigns to save the environment might have been effective but it did not last long. Some customers say “no” to plastic bags only on Saturdays but use them on other days. Children are taught theories about the importance of recycling and discarding different products in different-coloured bins, but, ironically, they can only find black bins around the school area to place the items.

Also, some people behind the wheel behave in an uncivilized manner by throwing litter out of their car windows. These drivers are insensitive, ignorant and selfish. 

We need to appreciate nature, which keeps us happy and healthy before natural disasters strike to leave us feeling horrible and terrible.  

And, without a sense of humanity, the mood to create a greener world will only be seasonal, and not eternal.

             Courtesy of New Straits Times

12 November 2014

Bullying (Hectic Role Takes A Toll)

The writer believes that a beautiful camaraderie
makes life a wonderful journey.

            In an effort to curb ragging incidents in boarding schools, the government plans to install closed-circuit television cameras (CCTV) in specific areas, according to the news report “Stop ragging in schools” (NST, Nov 7). Bullying cases normally take place in school hostels and wardens on duty are the first persons to refer to, or for some, to blame.

I was a warden for four years in two different schools and the experience was one of a kind. Hectic days at school and sleepless nights at the hostel were my definition of a teacher-cum-warden.

            Being the only male warden, I had no choice but to be on duty the whole academic year. As wardens, we work on weekends, public holidays and school holidays, especially during the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia period.

            In boarding schools, wardens carry their responsibilities as form teachers, disciplinary board members, advisers of clubs and coaches for co-academic competitions, to name a few. They are also examiners, invigilators, adjudicators and committee members for various programmes held at school, district and state levels.

            At the hostel, wardens carry their duty of care by constantly reminding students to obey hostel rules to avoid procedural action being taken against them as prevention is better than cure.

Wardens, too, need to be actively involved in students’ daily routine. Every time hostel occupants have their meals, wardens need to be present in the dining hall to ensure that everything goes well. Roll calls are taken in the morning before students leave for school, in the evening before they disperse for games and sports, and at night before they go to bed.            

            When students break the rules, wardens spend extra hours to deal with offenders. Sometimes, it takes days and weeks when it comes to handling serious offences. Besides, wardens are forced to respond to complaints from parents, teachers and the community regarding students’ attitude.

            Since hostel students are expected to be all-rounders – individuals with excellent academic performance, good leadership skills, active participation in sports, and exemplary manners - wardens need to carry out effective programs to meet the expectation. On weekdays and weekends, wardens have to check the dormitories and reports need to be compiled on a daily basis.   

I recommend that owing to the responsibilities and workload involved, a non-teacher be picked to fill the warden post.

            I handed in my resignation letter in April after my health condition deteriorated due to hypertension.

Courtesy of New Straits Times

10 November 2014