PENANG governor Tun Ahmad Fuzi Abdul Razak has called upon everyone in the state to take part in the ‘PEACE 21’ campaign programmes to celebrate peace as “peace is a collective choice.”
As Penang has a multicultural community, he said it could be a model state for promoting peace.
“In conjunction with the ‘Peace 21’ campaign, the Penang Harmony Corporation (Harmonico) is holding the campaign for 21 days (Sept 1 – Sept 21).
“Various programmes such as ‘PEACE Family-Day, movie screening, PEACE Exploration Tour and many more have been planned to celebrate ‘peace’ across all levels; within oneself, in the family and community, among fellow individuals, the world as well as the environment.
“I would like to thank the state government, religious bodies, institutions and individuals that have given their full support to promote peace.
“I believe Penang, which has a balanced race demography, is a winner in celebrating our religious and cultural diversity in this harmonious state,” Ahmad Fuzi said during his speech at the launching ceremony yesterday (Sept 1).
The campaign was launched to commemorate the ‘World International Peace Day’ which is observed every year on September 21.
Meanwhile, state executive councillor for Social Development and Non-Islamic Religious Affairs Chong Eng highlighted the campaign’s theme which is ‘End Racism, Build Peace’.
“This year’s theme is significant to the situation (racism) in the world at the current time.
“Racism has a big impact on individuals, community and the country. The impact includes physical and mental,” Chong Eng said.
She also shared some statistics on racial incidents that have occurred in Malaysia and urged everyone to pay attention to it.
“According to the study done by KOMAS centre, the ‘Malaysia Racial Discrimination Report 2021’ shows that incidents related to racism and xenophobia has doubled in 2021 compared to 2020.
“Out of the 53 incidents which are related to racism, 28% of them involved racial politics and religion, followed by religious provocation and xenophobia.
“Looking at this situation, it is important that all parties, including government and private, community and individuals, must join hands to find ways to stop racism. And create a more harmonious environment in Malaysia.
“In our effort to tackle racism in Malaysia, Penang has made initiatives to bring changes to our beloved state,” Chong Eng added.
At the event, a poem written by Penang Harmony Corporation (Harmonico) board of directors Datuk Seri Dr Anwar Fazal was recited by representatives from several bodies.
The poem titled ‘Remember We Are One’ (Peace be on you) was translated to Bahasa Malaysia, Tamil and Mandarin.
It is learned the poem was also made into a song by American singer and composer Dr.Ysaye Barnwell.
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix by Alissala Thian