Limkokwing University once again hosted the International Day for Tolerance celebration at the Plaza on 21 December 2015.
Officiated by YB Tan Sri Datuk Seri Panglima Joseph Kurup, Minister from the Prime Minister’s Department, the event saw the official launch of ‘Uniti’ (Unity), a theme song written by Limkokwing University’s Sound and Music Design Academy. With lyrics emphasising unity, the theme song was written to promote tolerance, respect and understanding both within Malaysia and the international community.
“Tolerance requires us to be more understanding and sympathetic, appreciative of differences and attitudes,” said Professor Emeritus Dato’ Ar. Parid Wardi Sudin, Limkokwing University’s Vice Chancellor in his opening speech. “It smoothens relationships where friendships are sustained.”
He explained that tolerance allows harmonious livelihood among different cultures and nurtures creativity through diversity, thus leading to a highly progressive nation.
The International Day for Tolerance is an annual observance declared by UNESCO in 1995 to generate public awareness of the dangers of intolerance. It is officially observed on 16 November. The International Tolerance Day celebration in Malaysia was first introduced at Limkokwing University in November 2014.
During the previous launch, Limkowing University’s President and Founder Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Paduka Dr Lim Kok Wing was recognised as Malaysia’s ‘Goodwill Ambassador’ by the Prime Minister’s Department.
YB Tan Sri Datuk Seri Panglima Joseph Kurup in his officiating speech said that “Malaysia is a multi-racial, multi-religious, multi-cultural and democratic society. The country has benefited from the positive interaction and synergy between various communities.”
Limkokwing University has been chosen as the celebration venue because of its multiculturalism. Regarded by many as Malaysia’s United Nations, Limkokwing University is a myriad of different cultures, faiths and traditions where all are shown equal respect and where tolerance and understanding is all pervasive. In a year which has sadly seen an upsurge of conflict and unnecessary death and destruction, the University’s unshakeable commitment to building bridges between East and West has never been more vital and relevant.
This multiculturalism aspect of the University is by design: it is vital in teaching tolerance and combating prejudice among youths of different nationalities and cultures while promoting equality, inclusiveness and equitable learning environments on campus. This will bring out the best in students and give them the confidence, experience and empowerment to successfully make the transition from University to the world of work.
Students will have a greater understanding of the intricacies of conducting business abroad, which makes them more competitive and viable when doing business across borders. It will bring new perspectives and ideas to their careers and students will see opportunities that they may not have seen otherwise.
During the launch, Limkokwing University also revealed the ‘World Tolerance Day’ Pledge Poster signed by students from 65 countries. This Pledge Poster was presented to the Minister as a gift to commemorate the event.