KUALA LUMPUR – Prominent social activist Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye has commended the launch of the #MZB365 campaign, aimed at fostering national reconciliation amid recent racial and religious tensions in the country.
Lee emphasised the importance of this initiative in addressing various societal issues which could potentially lead to conflicts – particularly those related to racial and ideological differences.
“In seeking forgiveness, one does not diminish their stature but rather demonstrates a noble willingness to rectify mistakes.”
“When we apologise, we don’t simply sweep conflicts under the rug.
“Instead, we demonstrate the size of our hearts by addressing human errors with grace and understanding,” Lee, who is a Malaysia Unity Foundation trustee, said in a statement.
“I wholeheartedly support this movement because it addresses the urgent need to counteract irresponsible actions that stoke anger in matters of race and religion.”
“Sensitive issues like these require a compassionate approach to prevent them from being exploited by those who seek to deepen racial divisions for their own political gain.”
The initiative, named “Gerakan Maaf Zahir Batin 365 Hari”, or the #MZB365 movement, has been initiated by 18 civil society organisations, as well as the nation’s media outlets.
It aims to cultivate a harmonious society through the practice of seeking and granting forgiveness.
The campaign seeks to institutionalise the tradition of seeking forgiveness – commonly observed during Aidilfitri celebrations – as a continuous practice throughout the year
The participating organisations stressed that seeking and granting forgiveness is not only a principle deeply embedded in Islam but also resonates with the teachings of other religions practised in Malaysia – including Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism, Taoism, and indigenous beliefs.
Amid rising tensions fueled by divisive rhetoric and misinformation, the campaign advocates for solidarity among Malaysians – transcending ethnic and religious boundaries.
It calls upon citizens to emulate the spirit of unity witnessed during the Covid-19 pandemic under the #KitaJagaKita movement.
The statement issued by the coalition yesterday cautioned against individuals and groups exploiting societal divisions for personal or political gain.
It emphasised the need to uphold the rule of law and promote truth and rational thinking as essential countermeasures against misinformation and propaganda.
Highlighting recent incidents such as the controversy surrounding “Allah”-printed socks and remarks made by Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek, the coalition urged Malaysians to reject hatred and embrace forgiveness as a means to strengthen social cohesion and trust.
The campaign encourages broad participation from all segments of society and invites individuals to join coordinated efforts through the provided channels.
It aims to counteract the rising incidence of issues related to race, religion, and royalty, as highlighted by recent statistics revealing a significant increase in cases involving religious sentiments and hate speech. – April 7, 2024