Let the Year of the Goat be a year of global
peace and a year of harmony, goodwill and prosperity for Malaysia
2003 Chinese New Year Message
by Kerk Kim Hock
(Petaling Jaya,
Thursday):
The twenty-first century is an era of many changes and challenges. The
political development and changes in the international and domestic scenes
will have much impact on our nation building policies. Hence, the Chinese
community, just like other Malaysians, will need to face such challenges
with confidence, courage and wisdom.
The impact brought about by the globalisation, liberalisation and the
information technology requires the community to display the readiness and
ability to change with the times. Indeed, is no longer a question of whether
any community should or should not change, but rather it is a question of
how and what to change in order not to be left behind.
As the threat of international terrorism looms and the America’s planned
attacks on Iraq becomes imminent, the Chinese community and all Malaysians
will have to show their determination to combat against war and terrorism,
while at the same time, they must also ensure that human rights and dissent
will not be sacrificed in the nation’s battle against terrorism.
Domestically, the impending change of the nation's Prime Ministership and
the implementation of new policies, will bring about much impact. Malaysians
must be vigilant and be prepared to ensure that they can be and are masters
of their fate – that they can decide and determine their own destiny and
future.
The Chinese community has made much efforts, contribution and sacrifices in
promoting the nation’s unity, progress and development. With the dawning of
the New Year, the community should, together with other races, ensure that
the foundations and social contract laid down by our forefathers for
building a multiracial, multi cultural, multi religious, secular and
democratic nation will not be threatened or undermined.
Lets hope that all Malaysians, irrespective of race, will reject extremism,
militancy and fanaticism and will together strive towards a progressive,
united, developed and tolerant Malaysia where justice, equality and freedom
will prevail.
In the Year of the Goat, lets hope that it will be a year of global peace,
and a year of harmony, goodwill and prosperity for Malaysia.
My family and I wish everyone a happy and prosperous Year of the Goat.
(30/1/2003)
* Kerk Kim Hock,
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