CRITICS are usually people who have not done the things that they criticise. This generalisation may seem simplistic, but it is safe to say that this generalisation is accurate.
Critics seem to be everywhere, to the extent that it has been said that everyone is a critic.
It is quite easy for us to notice others’ shortcomings, mistakes and faults. While there is nothing wrong in pointing out these weaknesses and imperfections, Muslims must observe the prescribed akhlak (mannerisms) in doing so. In this regard, our underlying intention or niat is very important.
If mistakes are pointed out in order to rectify them, then this is commendable. Taking this a step further, if solutions are presented to rectify these shortcomings, it is even more laudable. In other words, one does not simply criticise, one also presents solutions.
It is simple for people to see other people’s flaws and yet, at the same time, forget their own. The proverb kuman di seberang nampak, gajah di hadapan mata tidak drives home this point with great exactitude.
This age-old proverb is reflective of the general scenario in our society today. It is unfortunate to find certain people quite at ease with this un-Islamic act while claiming to be Islamic.
Is it right to preach one thing and yet practise the complete opposite? While democracy presents the opportunity for freedom of speech, can we simply say anything we want? Any orator knows that facts that figure (not just plain facts and figures) are needed to back up anything that is said. It is simply not enough to use inflammatory rhetoric that is condemnatory, degrading and chiding in nature to make up for the lack of facts.
But it is what we see happening. If life begins at 40, where maturity and level-headedness rule, this does not seem to reflect the scenario in a country that has had 45 years of independence.
Somehow, some of us still need to resort to low blows to gain support and sympathy. This trend is definitely unhealthy — and definitely un-Islamic.
To be fair, it does not solely apply to orators. The condition is part of a two-way exchange; as such, a culture would not thrive if there were no audience.
Sadly, many of us — the audience — are more attracted to sensationalism and sentimentalism, rather than a discourse that is rational and factual. Most of us tend to regard academic discussions as mundane.
It does not take a genius to deduce that Malaysians generally enjoy chiding and citing others’ weaknesses. Perhaps this is why the culture of warung kopi gossip — or its new millennium’s equivalent, “cyber-gossiping” — is commonplace. Intellectualism does not seem to have a place in our society.
It is crucial for us to establish a healthier political culture and a more constructive democratic practice. While “freedom of speech” is no doubt a tenet of democracy, it is equally imperative that this tenet is exercised side-by-side with “wisdom of speech”.
In effect, these two are the basic ingredients of a healthy democratic culture, especially in a unique multi-cultural and multireligious society like Malaysia.
With regard to presenting a case or an argument, Islam gives clear guidelines in that one must use wisdom and this must be done in a courteous manner. This is mentioned in verse 125 of Surah al-Nahl of the Quran, to the effect that “argue with them in ways that are best and most gracious”.
Doubtless, actions speak louder than words. What matters is deeds and not empty rhetoric. It is worth recalling another exhortation in the Quran in verse 2 of Surah al-Saff, to the effect: “O ye who believe! Why say ye that which ye do not?” Hence, in Islam, one should debate rationally, using clear and true facts, presented in the best way possible and coupled with a gracious demeanour. At the same time, Islam has also outlined that whatever a person says, he or she should do.
Character assassination and sensationalism should never be allowed to be part of our culture. These traits are simply not Islamic and, therefore, not part of our norm.
It is essential that Malaysians cultivate a democratic culture that reflects our norms and beliefs. Simply put, this culture should be Islamic.
Orators should adhere to the prescribed adab (guidelines) given by Islam, especially when expressing opinions and differing in opinions. Freedom of speech should not be used as an excuse for character assassination, name-calling and the like.
These abuses of freedom of speech must never be allowed to seep into and become part of our culture, lest the very fabric of society be rent apart.
We should always look back at history to remind ourselves of the repercussions of infighting, disunity, political discord and backstabbing. Look at what happened to Malacca. Jealousy and internal bickering led to the fall of the “Camelot of The East” to the Portuguese. This understanding will help the new generation of Malaysians to take the country to greater heights in this ever-challenging 21st century.
It is of utmost importance as the fate of the country lies in the hands of this generation. There is indeed a need to cultivate the new culture of democracy. But where and how do we begin? Perhaps, this is where leadership skills among youth take centre-stage. How they conduct themselves in societies and clubs as well as student movements and youth organisations should be looked at.
If what they practise in this smaller-scale society is not reflective of a healthy culture of democracy, this is where things should be rectified. The ingredients and formula for our nation to continue to develop and prosper are leaders with good character and reliable track records. It is deeds and not promises that matter most at the end of the day.
Looking at today’s political scenario, it may be true that politicians tend to “criticise” others when promoting their respective causes. Hopefully, they can deliver.
The public, on the other hand, should be able to think wisely and rationally when listening to political lectures and following campaigns. In facing an election, for example, it is important that wisdom and rationality are exercised by the electorate.
Only then will the electorate be able to exercise voting rights effectively and appropriately. We should not be clouded by emotion, rhetoric or sentiment. If this happens, then we may be the ones who will end up regretting the decisions we make.