Malaysia's Moral Morass
An Urgent Call for Christian Action
A Statement by NECF Malaysia
Malaysia is fast approaching a moral morass* from which it is going to be very difficult to extricate itself. Many would argue that we are already entangled in the mess but as Christians, we ought to pray against this air of resignation and continue to look to our Sovereign Ruler who is our true hope.
After the 12th general elections in 2008 where the ruling Barisan Nasional coalition was denied a two-thirds majority in Parliament, hopes were high for the beginning of a 'two-party' system that would moderate past political, social and economic excesses. Calls were made from within and without the ruling administration for 'reforms' that would bring about changes that could benefit the rakyat (citizens) and the nation as a whole.
Far from improvements and positive developments in the present climate and political landscape, we are however, witnessing an extremely distressing deterioration of conditions. Besides facing the most serious economic crisis in the country's history, we stand in the midst of the most serious crisis of confidence - that of legitimacy, and above all else, a crisis of morality.
Crisis of Morality Manifested
As a result of this crisis of morality, unrighteousness abounds and is evidently expressed in the following ways:
- Grave questions of integrity are being raised concerning our nation's top leaders;
- Loss of public trust in the political process, system and machinery;
- Widely perceived flouting and/or manipulation of the nation's law and order;
- Distrust of the independence and impartiality of the judiciary and courts of law;
- Grave doubts about the unbiased and impartial nature of the police and other enforcement agencies; and
- Deep concerns about the loyalties and impartiality of the civil service.
Of equal concern are matters affecting various communities such as:
- Widespread corruption which continues not just unabated but unabashed;
- Fanning of racial hatred at all levels, not only on the Internet but also in mainstream newspapers and television; and
- Religious discrimination and bias of the most serious and brazen manner.
The Root Cause
In efforts to regain and retain power, the Rule of Law and the various State institutions have been laid low and compromised to such a degree that these are fast losing the respect of the public at large. The state's considerable power has been wielded with selectivity, impunity and sadly, with injustice.
The constitutional crisis in Perak is one outcome of such behaviour. There can be no doubt that the behaviour of our leaders and our political parties have contributed the most to the almost endemic disrespect for the State and Rule of Law. They have ignored the demands of their various constituencies and that of the nation. Even opposition politicians are not entirely free of responsibility. Their personal behaviour and tainted agendas have also contributed to the current dilemma.
What Malaysians face today is nothing short of a moral morass that is submerging not just the little good governance we have, but law and order itself. It is wrecking the economy and dissolving what is left of the social bonds of friendship among the various racial communities.
The Need for Action
This crisis of morality and causes is a political, security, economic and social threat of the highest order. It is a moral calamity in the making and Malaysian Christians cannot afford to remain idle in the face of this onslaught.
As minorities, we have habitually and perhaps wrongly avoided all forms of public engagement that put our interests and comfort at risk. For too long we have hidden behind a few self-serving Bible verses and ignored what God has done through the centuries. We have feigned disinterest in politics. We have hidden our light under a barrel. In short, we have failed to provide the moral and ethical principles that we so strongly criticise our leaders for not having. Now is the time to put this right. The country is in turmoil and to stand idly by is an act of gross negligence.
NECF Malaysia therefore calls on all Christians to take the necessary prayerful, principled and affirmative steps towards appropriate actions as follows:
1 Be INFORMED
Firstly, there is a need to be informed. Christians cannot be effective until they understand the issues. For this purpose, Christians should attend briefings on national political and social issues. Church leaders should also organise talks by believers who understand the issues and can help to enlighten the congregation.
2 Be INITIATED
Secondly, there is a need to be initiated. More Christians should join political and non-governmental organisations or form voluntary associations of their personal conviction and choice towards public engagements.
Numbers do not indicate quality but they should not be underestimated in efforts for concerted actions.
3 Be INVOLVED
Thirdly, there is a need to be involved. There are already Christians working at the highest levels to influence and counterculture the undermining of our political and legal system as well as State institutions. Not all may have the abilities or similar opportunities but each should find his/her calling and in small ways, attempt to make a difference.
4 Be INTERACTIVE
Fourthly, we must be interactive. Just as we would earnestly desire everyone in this country to know the grace and salvation of our Lord Jesus Christ, we must seek to influence those in authority and those yet to be committed, to restore national righteousness. In times of crisis, this is an urgent call and our acts should be predicated on the love for our country which the Almighty God has placed us in. It is an essential act of stewardship and accountability towards our Great God and Saviour Jesus Christ.
May our Almighty Allah protect and preserve this nation of ours in its dire hour of need.
Editor's note: This statement was written by the NECF Research Commission for NECF. |
