Future generations could hold today’s Malaysians responsible if the country fails to leave behind a better Malaysia by the time it reaches its 100th anniversary in 2057, National Journalism Laureate Tan Sri Johan Jaaffar has warned.
Johan said the next three decades may sound like a long period, but in the context of nation-building and generational change, 30 years represents only a single generation.
He questioned what kind of legacy the current generation would leave behind, saying Malaysia’s present condition did not necessarily suggest that future generations would inherit a country they could be proud of.
“Three decades is not long. It is only one generation. But what legacy are we leaving for the next generation?
“Looking at things through today’s lens, the legacy we are likely to leave behind does not appear particularly remarkable. There is even a possibility that future generations will blame us because we failed to give them something better,” he said.
Johan also praised the forward-looking approach of Sinar Untuk Malaysia Foundation chairman Datuk Hussamuddin Yaacub for starting discussions about Malaysia’s long-term future instead of focusing solely on current issues.
He said Hussamuddin had encouraged Malaysians to imagine the country they wanted to hand over to the next generation in 2057, while many people remained caught up in political disputes and ongoing controversies.
According to Johan, the decisions and actions taken today would ultimately shape what Malaysia looks like when it turns 100.
He stressed that the country’s future should not only become a topic of discussion after problems emerge, but must be deliberately planned and shaped from now.
“Hussamuddin sees today as a reminder of what is to come. At the same time, he looks back at our achievements and shortcomings since independence.
“I hold his observations in high regard. I commend his forward thinking and his courage to speak the truth, even when it may be bitter and painful,” Johan said.
Johan said too much time was being spent on internal disputes and exposing one another’s weaknesses, while the shared responsibility of building a better Malaysia was being overlooked.
“That is the reality today. We must resolve our disputes, have the courage to speak the truth, reject misconduct and corruption, and repair any system that is damaged or compromised. We have a responsibility to fulfil,” he stressed.
He also backed the idea that #Malaysia100 should not be seen as Hussamuddin’s personal initiative, but as a shared responsibility among Malaysians who want to secure a better future for their children and grandchildren.
Johan hoped the ideas put forward through the #Malaysia100 initiative would be seriously considered by Malaysians, particularly current leaders and political players, as the country looks towards its centenary in 2057.
