YWF Malaysia organizer Dr. Amirul Haikal is embarking on a tour of spiritual and religious sites to foster unity and cross-cultural understanding in Malaysia and across the globe. This initiative called the 'One World Project', is supported by YWF Members who voted to allocate approximately $600 USD to the tour. On Saturday, 10 August 2024, Amirul visited the Gurdwara Sahib Kajang, an important house of worship for Sikhs located in Kajang, Selangor. This first stop on the tour was warmly welcomed by Mr. Bulbir Singh and Mr. Nirmal Singh, esteemed members of the Gurdwara community.
A Step Towards Unity and Understanding
Reflecting on the visit, Amirul emphasized the importance of face-to-face interactions in bridging divides within our society. He shared:
“This face-to-face meeting had a positive impact on both parties. We discussed the need for harmony between the multi-ethnic and religious communities in Malaysia as well as the issues of discrimination that are increasing day by day in Malaysia. Human life needs to be united in heart. We must join hands with others to produce a useful society and lead Malaysia and the world in a better, more harmonious direction. Unfortunately, this necessity cannot be seen by many who are blinded by the bigotry in politics."
The visit provided an opportunity for Amirul, a Muslim, to learn more about Sikhism, a spiritual tradition founded by Guru Nanak and further developed by nine successive Gurus, who made significant contributions to Sikh teachings and institutions. The community’s hospitality and willingness to engage in meaningful dialogue highlighted the shared values of peace, unity, and mutual respect.
Moving Towards a Unified Malaysia
In support of the One World Project, Mr. Bulbir Singh agreed to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with YWF Malaysia aimed at promoting unity within Malaysia. The MoU underscores several key objectives:
1. Fostering unity in Malaysia that transcends ethnicity or religion.
2. Empowering a united community that serves the shared interests of Malaysians and world citizens.
3. Advocating for a harmonious Malaysia and planet where universal human rights and responsibilities are respected.
4. Putting aside discrimination to foster open-mindedness and unity in Malaysia and the world.
5. Recognizing the importance of diverse ethnicities, religions, and cultures in building a better future for everyone.
A Vision for Global Unity
Amirul expressed his gratitude towards the Gurdwara Sahib Kajang for their support and shared his vision for the future:
“This is the beginning of realizing my dreams and ambitions for a future where humankind is united in living as one family. The diversity of ethnicities and religions is humanity’s most beautiful creation, and people need to be more sensitive to their surroundings. They must open their eyes and see that the world now needs to change for the better to ensure that the harmony of Malaysia and the world is intertwined in the future.”
As a token of appreciation, Dr. Amirul presented a wooden plaque to the Gurdwara Sahib Kajang, symbolizing the bond and support between YWF Malaysia and the Sikh community in advancing the One World Project.