Celebrate differences, don’t just tolerate them, says Saifuddin

Former Foreign Minister Saifuddin Abdullah has emphasized the importance of celebrating differences rather than simply tolerating them. In a recent address, Abdullah argued that tolerance alone can sometimes amount to merely enduring those who are different. He pointed to the Quranic concept of lita’arafu, which speaks to mankind being created as distinct nations and tribes, in order to know one another.

Abdullah stressed that the true essence of this concept goes beyond mere coexistence, urging Malaysians to actively celebrate their diverse backgrounds. He noted that Islam provides numerous examples of the Prophet Muhammad exhibiting respect and recognition towards those perceived as different. However, Abdullah cautioned that merely tolerating others risks fostering an environment where misinformation, hate speech, and confrontational debates about race and religion can flourish.

Instead, he advocated for compassion and active engagement, stating that when we celebrate our differences, we work in harmony and peace. At a recent conference, Nelson Fernandez, FMT's executive chairman, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the role of news outlets in steering public discourse away from conflict and towards compassion.

Both Abdullah and Fernandez stressed that the distinction between tolerance and celebration of diversity should guide policies aimed at national unity, suggesting that a celebration of diversity would better highlight the country's strengths and serve as a practical foundation for compassionate living among Malaysians.