MIGRANTS' HEALTH CHECKS (Be strict, for all our sakes)

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

            For many years, Malaysia has attracted millions of foreign citizens to either study or work in the country. Foreign students are eager to pursue their education here while breadwinners wish to find jobs here.

While we work on internationalising our higher institutions and boosting the economy by hiring foreign workers, it is essential for us not to leave out the safety aspect in workplaces. We may not see it coming, but some international students and foreign workers, registered or illegal immigrants, could be carrying contagious diseases. 

            Without official declaration of their health statuses, immigrants put the lives of Malaysians, especially those sharing the same workplaces and neighbourhoods, at risk. Thus, employers should ensure that foreign employees are fit and healthy. While it is important for employers to take into account other criteria - capable of working, willing to commit and having a clean criminal record- they should make it mandatory for foreign workers to undergo health screenings and pass medical tests prior to signing the contracts.

            Sometimes, employers are deceived by the physical appearance of foreigners. With this attitude of judging a book by its cover, employers often jump to conclusions and assume foreign employees are healthy. This happens when employers are desperate for workers to keep a business going or to improve the business performance. Illegal companies will recruit workers by fair means or foul, as long as their financial needs are fulfilled.        

            Foreign students, including those selected for transfer programs, should pass a medical test approved by certified medical practitioners to qualify for admission, even when these undergraduates have undergone health screenings and declared healthy by doctors in their countries. This may be tedious but our strict procedures show that we take the safety of everyone in the country seriously.

            Malaysia has been struggling with the increasing number of people contracting dengue, cancer, tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS, and we cannot afford to see the number increasing, or our campaigns on living a healthy lifestyle will be just a waste of time.

Hence, we need to be smart in handling immigrants, including Rohingyas and Bangladeshis, who migrate to a peaceful country like ours. We may help them in the name of humanity but we must shield our Malaysian brothers and sisters from danger.

Courtesy of New Sunday Times

31 May 2015

TUBERCULOSIS (Maintain one's health for a happy life)

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

            Coughing can be a symptom of many types of illnesses, be they mild or severe. However, some tend to take things too positively or, worse, for granted. Such people think that a cough is common and will go away, but their optimism does not make things better. If left untreated, their health may deteriorate, and going by previous cases of tuberculosis (TB), many have been taken by this fatal disease by surprise. After the diagnosis has been confirmed, it marks the beginning of patients' nightmare, as at this point, it may be harder to cure.

            We need to take our health seriously. Every year, people die from various diseases, including cancer, diabetes, heart attack - and TB. Some are forced to face dreadful consequences, and their knowledge about diseases fails to boost their motivation to free themselves from the danger. Others, while trying to live a worry-free life, choose to live by the motto “ignorance is bliss”. This attitude shatters the dream of the Health Ministry and health-conscious members of society to reduce the number of patients being diagnosed with or dying because of TB.

            Thus, we need to remind not only ourselves, but also our loved ones to take action and make wise decisions when frequent coughs result in discomfort, dizziness or bodily pain. We may not see anything coming, but that does not mean everything is okay.

            There are several ways to avoid TB. As one is at risk of contracting it in crowded places, it is advisable to avoid being in areas where breathing is a challenge. Before they know it, patients might have contracted the disease at an early stage.

            Those suspected of having TB need to seek medical treatment immediately. When it comes to fighting deadly diseases, no one is an exception. It does not take a family member of doctors to take preventive measures or be fully aware of the undesirable repercussions of diseases, so people, regardless of profession, living status and age, should be mindful of any symptom of TB or other illnesses.

            Maintaining an optimal wellness level is important to ensure healthy living and, ultimately, happiness. It is also a "secret" for success in one's career and relationships, as well as provides an easier path to achieve personal goals. These simple rules are crucial to live an ideal life and they are not meant to be broken. 

Courtesy of New Sunday Times

24 May 2015

MAT REMPIT: Freedom Keeps Youth on the Wrong Track

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

            It is frustrating how some people prefer to do things the wrong way. Those who refuse to work hard to earn a living end up getting involved in crime, including robbery and snatch theft. Neglected schoolchildren drop out and are influenced by negative friends. Heartless teenage mothers force babies born out of wedlock to pay the price for their mistakes by abandoning them, or worse, murdering those innocent newborns without feeling any guilt. And uncivilised youths would rather race on the road than taking up healthy hobbies or participating in beneficial programmes. For these pathetic teenagers and adults, every “no” is a “yes”.

Illegal racers are daredevils who put not only their lives, but also the lives of others at risk. Such fools think that their show on the road is proof of their bravery, heroism and even manliness, but they are wrong. Others would perceive them as children who may come from broken homes with improper upbringing leading loveless lives. And parents, who are expected to control and supervise their children, will be blatantly blamed.

Youngsters race for different reasons. Some find illegal racing interesting and exciting as they are promised special rewards if they win a race or bet. They may get money, be chosen as the new group leader or win the chance to win the best girl as the trophy.  Others are trapped in personal or family problems, thus they resort to illegal racing as a way to emancipate themselves from pressures at home.

When it comes to getting involved in crime or other unhealthy activities, there are usually bad influences that drive youths to settle for unwise decisions. I believe that illegal racers are greatly influenced by friends and movies.

It is undeniable that companions and entertainment influence the lifestyle as well as the way of thinking of the teenagers nowadays. Problems arise when youngsters mingle with the bad crowd and watch inappropriate flicks. Some teenagers believe in their own definition of fun and freedom that keeps them on the wrong track. Their “best friends forever” manipulate them and lure them into activities that guarantee guilty pleasure and temporary satisfaction.

Films with inappropriate content, including those that show dangerous scenes by stuntmen, easily affect young viewers. Some are excited and want to try out the scenes in real life. At the end of the day, film producers get all the benefits and become wealthier while immature audiences start thinking and imitating unrealistic acts performed by professionally trained actors in movies. Little do these youngsters realise that they may harm themselves while trying to have fun and impress others.

Teenagers get involved in illegal racing because they want to attract attention they probably never received before. This crime may have, ironically, helped them build confidence and passion as well as learn to reach goals, but these positive traits have been applied in the wrong way. Illegal racers will eventually become egoistic, greedy, immoral, disrespectful, inconsiderate and selfish members of society. Thus, we, by any means, must activate their positive attitude they once developed and reshape them into rehabilitated individuals.  

Courtesy of New Sunday Times,

May 17, 2015

Educators Have a Huge Responsibility

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

             Like many other significant days that are celebrated every year as a sign of respect, remembrance and appreciation, May 16 is synonymous with Teachers Day. With this year’s meaningful theme, “Teachers: Builders of Knowledge and Character”, it is perfect to describe the important roles teacher play inside and outside the classroom.

            From my experience of teaching in three different schools, I have encountered various school scenarios and multiple personalities of both teachers and students that are, at times, unexpected and unbearable but, nevertheless, intriguing to study and learn from.

It has been said that a doctor’s mistake may kill a patient but a teacher’s wrong move may kill an entire generation. This saying suggests that teachers are the ones responsible in determining students’ direction, decisions and even ambitions, because these teachers are, undoubtedly, the builders of not only knowledge but also character. However, are all educators aware of this huge responsibility? Are future teachers ready to shoulder challenging roles in helping the country produce quality individuals?

Truth be told, there are teachers who think that students’ academic performance is the only thing that matters, which is contradictory with the objectives of the National Philosophy of Education that aims to optimise the intellectual, emotional, spiritual and physical potentials of learners.

Some teachers also fail to understand the right concept and purpose of education when they label, discriminate and doubt the ability of students in becoming successful individuals with the potential to become dedicated and productive workers.

Teachers need to realise that to focus only on excellent students and deny weak learners their fair share of attention is uncalled for. When teachers develop a negative perception towards underprivileged students, it will make the situation worse. Students will stop believing in themselves, lose their confidence and develop an inferiority complex. Consequently, there will be a gap between the advanced and weak learners when the smart become smarter and the weak, weaker.

Children are gifted with multiples intelligence and abilities. It is teachers’ responsibility to activate and develop students’ talent and skills especially when parents fail to discover their children’s hidden potential. Sometimes, teachers need to expect the unexpected. Some students in weak classes may show better enthusiasm in learning than those in the top class. Quiet and problematic learners may be creative and critical thinkers, who are able to innovate, solve problems and contribute mind-blowing ideas. Unfortunately, these students are often overlooked and not given the opportunity to shine as their teachers have forgotten that every child is special and there is a good side of everyone. The fact that some teachers are prejudiced, discriminative and emotional towards their students that they forget to think and act positively, wisely and rationally is disappointing.

  True teachers are a source of inspiration to students and society. Their contributions are countless and their sacrifices and priceless. Let us, in conjunction with this special day, thank our teachers for their passion, sincerity and perseverance in helping us to stand where we are now.

A blessed Teachers Day to those in the teaching profession.

Courtesy of New Straits Times

16 May 2015

Teaching Kids the Importance of Safety

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

          Parents do not want to face the horrible and terrible experience of losing a child, but do they put enough effort in making sure that their children will stay safe wherever they are? Are their children always the top priority or will they easily switch their attention when they hear the alluring beeps of their smartphones?

            Children, no matter how smart, should not be left unattended, considering their level of maturity and sensibility, which may not be able to control and prevent danger. Otherwise, children will have to pay the price of the adults’ failure to keep them safe, and recent incidents that claimed lives of kids paint a clear picture of what should not happen if safety were applied.

Accidents can happen anywhere, anytime and to anyone. Thus, it is important for parents and teachers to educate children about safety and strangers. Parents need to remind their children to control their behaviour in public and stay close to them or guardians to prevent mishaps and other undesirable circumstances. After all, prevention is the best way to avoid future regrets, blames and ordeals.

            Teachers are equally responsible to equip children with safety skills.  For children in pre-schools, kindergartens and primary schools, creative activities should help children enjoy lessons on safety. This is one way to create an effective learning lesson full of values and the information necessary for knowledge and survival.

            Apart from receiving formal education in schools, government and non-government organisations may contribute in inculcating awareness in children regarding personal safety. Programmes that focus on how, why, where and when to be safe are best conducted during school breaks. Not only will these educational and beneficial programmes make their holidays enjoyable and intriguing, it would be a good opportunity to make new friends, as well as encourage cooperation and social interaction. Getting our children to participate in these physically and mentally healthy activities is certainly better than letting them spend the whole day, or worse, the entire school break, playing video games, watching television, surfing the Internet or hanging out with the wrong friends.

            As for parents, they need to take children’s safety seriously and be thankful for the children they are blessed with. Smart parents will not run errands before ensuring their children’s safety. They will not answer a phone call unless there is a trusted adult being in charge. And, they will keep their children close during outings especially in crowded public places.   

            To take care of children may be a big responsibility, but to deal with grave repercussions of negligence is beyond any parent’s imagination. 

            Parents and guardians need to be reminded that to stay alert today is to keep children alive tomorrow.  

Courtesy of New Sunday Times

10 May 2015

CONGESTED ROADS (Solving the City's Traffic Woes)

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

            Traffic congestion can be a torture for road users, especially those who are running late for work or appointments. This causes stress and discomfort, and also contributes to greater noise pollution as impatient drivers honk to vent their spleen Some uncivilised road users yell and hurl insults at other drivers. Instead of keeping their cool, these road-rage drivers behave in a selfish, rude and aggressive way, and give no thought to the feeling of other people.  

            I feel that initiatives to ease traffic congestion are future-centric plans that will benefit the people and the country. For instance, Singapore's The Electronic Road Pricing System, which was implemented many years ago is an effective and empirical way to promote smooth traffic flow. Considering the cost and other factors, it may be nearly impossible to introduce the system immediately, but I hope that this will be done at some point. 

          Using public transport is a good way to avoid traffic congestion, but this option will not appeal to everybody. Nowadays, personal vehicle ownership has become very popular even among students. To these youths, using public transportation is old-fashioned and exhausting. Perhaps road users should consider carpooling instead. Through vehicle-sharing, we can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and resource consumption as well as encourage camaraderie among friends and colleagues.    

            Encouraging cycling is a good way to prevent traffic congestion, but cyclists may suffer health problems as they are directly exposed to the city's air pollution. They are at a greater risk of sustaining serious injuries in accidents. Cyclists also have to cope with unpredictable weather events, including the equinox phenomenon that we are experiencing now.

            Traffic congestion is an issue that needs to be addressed smartly, effectively, and efficiently. Let's make a serious effort to improve our traffic system so that we can all reach our destinations without experiencing headache and heartache on the way.

Courtesy of New Sunday Times

3 May 2015

PORNOGRAPHY (Block Sites with Indecent Content)

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

            I refer to your front-page report “No more porn” (NST, April 20) and support the idea of blocking all pornography websites from being viewed within the country.

            While we struggle to make our children computer-literate and encourage them to venture into the borderless world of the Internet to gain useful information for their academic purposes, we may not foresee the negative effects caused by peer influence as well as excessive use of the Internet. 

            The situation will get worse when visiting porn sites becomes an addiction and an obsession among children. 

            In school, children will share their experiences watching and perhaps, downloading indecent clips. Some may even promote and encourage friends to take up this new "hobby",  which they find exciting and enjoyable. No child will say “no” to fun activities. 

            A worse consequence of schoolchildren spending time visiting pornography websites is the possibility of them getting involved in sexual crimes, leading to social problems. The number of teenagers being arrested for various offences, including rape, sexual harassment and sexual abuse, will be on the rise. Moral decay will lead to grave repercussions affecting their individual selves, families and society. 

It is hard to handle rebellious, emotional and egoistic teenagers who perceive the advice, warnings and reminders by the elderly as an expression of anger and overprotection. Thus, it is hoped that the cyber authorities will help curb the problem by blocking frequently visited websites with inappropriate content before the situation gets out of control.

Not only children and teenagers, adults will also be prevented from visiting websites which promote indecency and obscenity. 

Together, let us fight pornography as it destroys the family institution, the nation and the entire generation. 

Courtesy of New Straits Times

1 May 2015