Peace Corps shows KL maturity

Malaysia's decision to start its own version of the Peace Corps reflects the country's growing maturity. It is no exaggeration to suggest that this timely and appropriate initiative may be one of the most constructive ideas to come out of the region yet.

When President John F. Kennedy started the United States Peace Corps in 1961, it caught the fancy of tens of thousands of idealistic young Americans. Since then, it has sent teachers, technicians, carpenters and engineers to about 100 countries.

Thirty-six years later, it seems natural for Malaysians to become increasingly aware of their national identity as their country's stature in the world community is enhanced. Now, through their own version of the Peace Corps, they will be able to take pride in helping others to flourish through a program that matches Malaysia's foreign policy ideals and serves practical interests as well.

Developing countries have traditionally looked to the West for assistance. But that was yesterday. Now Asia is emerging as one of the most dynamic, wealthy and successful regions in the world. And it is time for the nations in this region to play a role in helping less developed countries.

Malaysia may not have a lot of money to give away, but it is accumulating a large pool of experts who can help the people of poorer countries in a more constructive way than just throwing money at them.

The tremendous power in people is one of the most underrated assets of any society. It is an asset that Malaysia has now decided to tap. But Malaysia on its own can only provide assistance on a fairly limited scale. It would be able to accomplish far more through a partnership with other countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.

-- The Hong Kong Standard