Letters - Nurturing peace in all dimensions

THE launch of Visions For Peace by Her Royal Highness Raja Zarith Sofiah Sultan Idris Shah on April 23 had all the ingredients of a truly Malaysian celebration representing all classes of the nation's citizenry, from royalty to youth and children. As a celebration of the fifth anniversary of the Association of Voices of Peace, Conscience and Reason established on May 31, 2011, the first publication of the citizen movement known simply as PCORE is a befitting tribute to its four aims and objectives, mission and vision as well as its 10 areas of concern.
The event saw a gathering of some 300 Malaysians of all ethnicities and from all backgrounds hailing no doubt from all the states as well as Sabah and Sarawak. Permaisuri Johor and PCORE Patron Raja Zarith Sofiah Sultan Idris Shah braved a tight schedule to grace the occasion. The royal address paid tribute to the many members, friends and associates of PCORE who had come to support the book's launch.
The elegant evening showcased a bit of fusion Malaysian culture – English and Malay songs in gambus style followed by a medley of Chinese and Malay classics in a capella. The men's traditional Haidramaut zapin preceded the women's contemporary zapin choreographed by PCORE.
All in all, an impressive multi-ethnic performance by multi-ethnic performers.
Most relevant of all, the contents of Visions For Peace reflect the diversity of views contributed by more than 50 authors, all pointing to their hopes and dreams for a more peaceful and harmonious Malaysia, the country they love and call home.
As the book's preface realistically says "Much as we realize that real unity is elusive, we still work at it for the sake of the country for therein lies our hope for a better Malaysia. Although we know balance and harmony are relative to the pragmatic undertakings of the nation's life, we still try our best to instil these values in our personal life."
As a compilation of perspectives on the themes of peace and unity, balance and harmony Visions For Peace highlights a variety of concerns including world peace, environmental conservation and sustainable development, ethnic relations and social justice, integrity and transparency, morality and the spirituality of mankind.
All in all, a book which every right-thinking Malaysian should read.
Datuk Halimah Mohd Said
President
Association of Voices of Peace, Conscience and Reason