PETALING JAYA: A first-time visitor to Malaysia can be forgiven for assuming that basic values such as courtesy and good manners are a rare commodity in the country.
The evidence is everywhere, from signboards reminding people to not litter, to TV and radio jingles touting the value of good behaviour.
Unfortunately, the assumption is not completely off the mark. Common courtesy, noble values and good ethics seem to be waning. Some have even said moral values are on a decline in the Malaysian society.
This, experts said, could be attributed to today’s challenges leading to a change in priorities. The rat race, ambition, desire for a better life, coupled with technological advancements, have consigned basic values to the rubbish heap.
Sociologist and assistant professor at Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman Dr Charanjit Kaur believes that many adults understand that common courtesy is lost in the younger generation.
This is characterised by selfish or uncouth behaviour on social media, in public spaces and public transport, at supermarkets as well as on the road.
Charanjit agrees that there is nothing wrong with using signboards to transmit knowledge and good values.
“People, especially those living and working in the metropolitan area, are constantly in a hurry, so there is a need to frequently remind them of the importance of keeping things in order,” she told theSun.
“Unfortunately, most people are so glued to their smartphones that such messages fail to garner any attention,” she added.
According to Charanjit, the absence of common courtesy is a “serious matter”.
“It is time that we be sincere, tactful and thoughtful as well as be appreciative of people and situations around us,” she added.
Social activist Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye noted that although the principles of good behaviour and morality are enshrined in the country’s Rukun Negara, those values have been pushed to the back seat.
“This is worrisome, judging from the behaviour of people. I have reservations about the future,” he said.
Lee pointed out that values such as courtesy, politeness, patience, humility, tolerance and respect have yet to become the Malaysian way of life.
“A lot needs to be done for us to encapsulate these values, especially among the younger generation,” he added.
The Covid-19 pandemic has, unfortunately, brought out the worst in the Malaysian society. For instance, littering has become worse as people dispose of used face masks indiscriminately. As Lee pointed out, such bad social behaviour could exacerbate an already critical situation.
In his view, it all boils down to education, and it has to start from pre-school level.
“In Japan, the people have a high level of civic-mindedness. They do not require signboards to tell them to behave properly. This is because these values have been inculcated in them through education,” he said.
“We must realise that success in academic achievements does not amount to much if it does not come hand-in-hand with the development of good character,” he said.
Lee believes that while digitalisation is the way forward, the people should also reflect on the decline in social values and behaviour given that it will characterise the future generation.
