Peace Corps shows KL maturity<\/p>\n
Malaysia's decision to start its own version of the Peace
\nCorps reflects the country's growing maturity. It is no
\nexaggeration to suggest that this timely and appropriate
\ninitiative may be one of the most constructive ideas to come out
\nof the region yet.<\/p>\n
When President John F. Kennedy started the United States Peace
\nCorps in 1961, it caught the fancy of tens of thousands of
\nidealistic young Americans. Since then, it has sent teachers,
\ntechnicians, carpenters and engineers to about 100 countries.<\/p>\n
Thirty-six years later, it seems natural for Malaysians to
\nbecome increasingly aware of their national identity as their
\ncountry's stature in the world community is enhanced. Now,
\nthrough their own version of the Peace Corps, they will be able
\nto take pride in helping others to flourish through a program
\nthat matches Malaysia's foreign policy ideals and serves
\npractical interests as well.<\/p>\n
Developing countries have traditionally looked to the West for
\nassistance. But that was yesterday. Now Asia is emerging as one
\nof the most dynamic, wealthy and successful regions in the world.
\nAnd it is time for the nations in this region to play a role in
\nhelping less developed countries.<\/p>\n
Malaysia may not have a lot of money to give away, but it is
\naccumulating a large pool of experts who can help the people of
\npoorer countries in a more constructive way than just throwing
\nmoney at them.<\/p>\n
The tremendous power in people is one of the most underrated
\nassets of any society. It is an asset that Malaysia has now
\ndecided to tap. But Malaysia on its own can only provide
\nassistance on a fairly limited scale. It would be able to
\naccomplish far more through a partnership with other countries of
\nthe Association of Southeast Asian Nations.<\/p>\n
-- The Hong Kong Standard<\/p>", "url": "https:\/\/jawawa.id\/newsitem\/peace-corps-shows-kl-maturity-1447893297", "image": "" }, "sponsor": "Okusi Associates", "sponsor_url": "https:\/\/okusiassociates.com" }