Monday 7 October 2013

Why I blog


Many of my good intention friends asked why I started this blog and write on topics many reserved for private conversations. I like to share the quotations below as I cannot explain better.

First they came for the communists,
and I didn't speak out because I wasn't a communist.
Then they came for the socialists,
and I didn't speak out because I wasn't a socialist.
Then they came for the trade unionists,
and I didn't speak out because I wasn't a trade unionist.
Then they came for me,
and there was no one left to speak for me.
                                         Pastor Martin Niemoller (1892–1984)

Martin Luther King, Jr. equates silence to death.
“Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about the things that matter.”

We live in a wonderful nation, blessed with resources and absence of natural disasters.  We have made good economic progress.  The country is peaceful, although crime has become a nagging problem.  Those who articulate constructive criticisms, differing views, probing analysis and challenging questions are not because they are ungrateful or less loyal.  Quite the opposite. It takes a lot of effort …and pain !

I am reminded of a past incident.  An advice from a Malaysian tycoon in my younger days. That he has limited time and opportunity to be with the “power that be”.  Therefore, why talk about social or economic issues or issues affecting others? Just concentrate on getting what you want.

Sadly, that’s what many do.  It’s a lot more pleasant, more rewarding and less intellectually demanding to sing praises and to agree. 

The children’s tale, “The Emperor’s New Clothes” is telling.  Many do not know they are naked with those around them singing praises. 

I chose not to listen to the tycoon.  He has since become a lot richer and more powerful.   I maintain my dignity, my value and my soul.

9 comments:

  1. mr. tong,
    you are those special one who choose dignity and will not sell your soul for being someone runners/dogs. sadly there are very few of you in this beautiful country which is now slowly going down the drain.
    i believe as you continue, you will step into more hidden hands whom will try to disturb you or make your life hard. hope you are ready for them........

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  2. Life is never interesting without expressing your real thought...hope to cross path one day.

    You are what you are.

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  3. Dear Mr Tong,

    Thank you for showing courage where it is needed. Many of us chose otherwise and watch the events unfold and not wanting to speak or write about it. I applaud your courage and it give me courage too. Please continue to be the voice for the voiceless and uphold what is right and just for all mankind regardless of colour and faith.
    Bravo..

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  4. Good work Tong. All the best.

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  5. Hi Tong, I remember you used the term crab mentality (or something to that effect) to the corporate world in Malaysia years ago. Some things haven't changed much unfortunately.

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  6. Mr. Tong, u r a tycoon and u start to blog. U have reached the highest stage of Maslow hierarchy. U can't blame people losing dignity or whatever... It is their choice. I have my choice to reply u so get your attention. Actually I agree with u but I prefer Bill Gates quote more.."when u have money in hand, only you forget who are you, But when you do not have any money in hand, the whole world forget who you are"... Again, we all love Malaysia, we just want it to be better, not worse. Hope u get it.

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  7. Hope it's not because of competition from The Focus Malaysia. The owner, TS Clement Hii's blog attract a bit of following :-)

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