Peace Corps shows KL maturity

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