Social Activists Should Continue To Voice Their Views For Nation's Development - PM Anwar

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 15 (Bernama) -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today encouraged social activists to continue actively play a role in voicing their views to bring about positive changes in the country's development.

He said the role of social activists cannot be underestimated, especially when it involves efforts to develop a country that is fair and compassionate without excluding any strata of society.

"However, it (the activist movement) must be organised wisely, not by bringing voices of hatred, cynicism, often making fools of others and telling everyone, that is just wrong.

"...what I am emphasising here is that it is different. This is what is called social activism, not taking a hard political stance but looking at the role of individuals, figures who can help bring about change in the country,” he said.

The Prime Minister said this in his speech when officiating the launch of the book ‘The Man Who Could Move Mountains: Reflections on the Social Activism’ of S.M. Mohamed Idris at the International Institute of Advanced Islamic Studies (IAIS) Malaysia here.

Also present were Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek, Speaker of Dewan Rakyat Tan Sri Johari Abdul, IAIS chairman Prof Dr Maszlee Malik and chairman of Malaysian National News Agency (BERNAMA) Datuk Seri Wong Chun Wai.

Anwar also used the figure of S.M. Mohamed Idris, who is also former Penang Consumers Association (CAP) president as the best example of the steadfastness of a social activist in fighting for consumer rights, the social landscape and the environment.

“Uncle Idris does not portray (hard politics), that is not his path, he is just a figure with a simple style and attitude but his views on the state, the country, and justice are hard.

"The figure of SM Idris is a role model. He can smile, be friendly with everyone, but never wavers on key issues and principles. This is what we need in terms of his thoroughness, courage and the simplicity of his life," said the prime minister.

-- BERNAMA