With today being the International Day for Tolerance, it is a day that offers us a crucial moment to reflect and, more importantly, recommit to the fundamental values of mutual respect, understanding, and peaceful coexistence. For our nation specifically, a nation that was built on diversity that celebrates its myriad religious, cultures, and ethnic identities, it is a day that should resonate deeply.
Tolerance, especially in today’s increasingly polarized world, is fast becoming an urgent necessity. Fostering togetherness is a prerequisite to true development, and it cannot be reduced to merely coexisting. Instead, it is active respect and celebration of differences; be they religious beliefs, cultural traditions, or political viewpoints, every person in this country deserves the space to live with dignity and without fear of discrimination or exclusion.
Today, social divisions and toxic political discord have threatened this harmony and we hope that our political landscape can do better than what has historically been the norm in our country and lead by example, demonstrating tolerance through dialogue and consensus rather than confrontation. Indeed, it is when we see tolerance at the highest levels will there be a precedent for the millions who look to governance for stability and unity.
Our trademark resilience and warmth have long been our strengths. Yet, it is through upholding tolerance that these qualities will be elevated further. As such, this International Day for Tolerance, let all of us, from the everyday citizen to those occupying the highest honours in the country, actively strengthen the bonds of mutual respect, embrace inclusivity, and create a better society where differences are celebrated.
