Editor’s note: This invaluable advice by veteran journalist and blogger Datuk A. Kadir Jasin is timely for following the recent case of Vijayan Savarinathan who were literally tracked down by Malay Muslims to his dwelling in the Victoria state, Australia for hurling vulgarities and insults at the Islamic faith in a 49-second video.
The 49-year-old Johor-born Vijayan eventually surfaced to “sincerely apologise to all Malay Muslims” over his outburst in retaliation to the action of the ERA FM deejay trio in their so-called Thaipusam gaffe.
ANYBODY can migrate in search of better life, adventure or even love.
For millions of years human beings have been migrating. We are all descendants of these early migrants.
Due to its strategic location and favourable climate, our country, Malaysia, has been a favourite destination for migrants throughout the ages.
Some came and went but many stayed on to build new life and make Malaysia their home. Today, among their descendants are billionaires, professionals and paupers.
Some of them keep practicing the migratory tradition. The rich bought palatial homes in Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the UK.
The professionals seek better job prospects, higher salaries and better quality of life.
The poor can earn handsome income as seasonal fruits pickers and labourers. By all means go. Make the exit. Seek your fortune and happiness in the countries of your dream.
But don’t run down the country that gave your ancestors shelter when they arrived as coolies and labourers centuries ago.
Those who are bringing shame to Malaysia by staying illegally in other people’s countries should not make their circumstances worse by badmouthing their homeland to gain favour with their hosts.
It’s best that they stay put wherever they are or be prepared to face the consequences of their shenanigans when they return.
There’s no excuse for fermenting religious and racial hatred at home when you’re abroad, more so to save yourself from being expelled for overstaying. – March 12, 2025
Main image credit: Hsu Chung-mao/Think China
