ONE of the fundamental traits to look for in a leader is his sense of compassion. Does his normal behaviour, ideas, vision and speeches exhibit compassion?
Stop selecting leaders who talk the loudest or those who spread fear, hatred and toxicity among the citizens, or those who rely on elitism.
These are political vultures whose desire for power, glory and wealth is so dominant that they do not understand the sufferings and hopes of the ordinary people of the nation. They will hurt others to fulfill their political desires without any loss of sleep.
According to the Rapera movement, which encourages compassion among Malaysians, the concept of compassion that a leader should have is an understanding of other people’s suffering accompanied by the desire to remove that suffering. In other words, genuine empathy followed by effective action.
In the often turbulent world of politics, compassion may seem like an elusive and naive ideal. However, with the complex challenges that we face now, it is becoming increasingly clear that compassion is not only desirable but also essential for effective governance and societal well- being.
We need to understand that compassion in politics encompasses understanding, empathy, and the willingness to alleviate the suffering of others.
Compassion in the political sphere can bridge divides, foster humanity, and pave the way for a more inclusive and just society.
Firstly, compassion in politics begins with embracing empathy and understanding. Political leaders and policymakers must strive to comprehend the diverse experiences and perspectives of constituents and citizens.
By placing themselves in the shoes of those they represent, politicians can gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by various communities. This understanding enables leaders to develop policies that address the root causes of societal issues and prioritise the needs of vulnerable populations.
Empathy fosters a culture of respect and inclusivity, diminishing the animosity often associated with political divisions. Leaders who are compassionate are able to transcend the borders of prejudice, racism, religious bigotry and extremism. They will see their constituents as human beings with human problems, not just as numbers of votes.
A compassionate political strategy places the welfare of citizens above personal gain, above ideological objectives, and above purely partisan interests.
Leaders are more likely to implement policies that uplift the marginalised, advance social justice, and create opportunities for all if they place human dignity and well-being at the core of their decision-making process.
Secondly, a compassionate political agenda seeks to reduce poverty, provide access to quality education and healthcare, and protect the rights of minorities and vulnerable groups.
Leaders are more likely to implement policies that uplift the marginalised, advance social justice, and create opportunities for all if they place human dignity and well-being at the core of their decision-making process.
A compassionate political agenda seeks to reduce poverty, provide access to quality education and healthcare, and protect the rights of minorities and vulnerable groups.
Compassionate politics builds trust and strengthens the bond between government and citizens by putting the needs of the people first.
Thirdly, ideological, cultural, and socioeconomic differences are frequently seen in politics. These gaps can be bridged by compassion, which fosters productive communication and promotes cooperation.
Leaders who are compassionate look for common ground and create coalitions that cut across party lines rather than sustaining divisive rhetoric. The divisive narratives that politicians generate are clear evidence of their lack of compassion.
Politicians can develop a more unified and peaceful political environment by identifying shared principles and working toward similar objectives. Such a compassionate approach becomes even more relevant when leading a diverse nation like Malaysia.
Fourthly, even when there are disagreements, compassionate politics promotes courteous dialogue and constructive debate.
Compassionate leaders like to concentrate on the core of problems rather than using aggressive words or personal attacks. This strategy promotes civil discourse among citizens and sets a good example for them, increasing public involvement and democratic decision-making.
An environment where different viewpoints are welcomed and celebrated, rather than ignored or derided, is fostered by a political culture that places a high emphasis on compassion.
Fifthly, global challenges such as climate change, humanitarian crises, and pandemics demand coordinated efforts and collective action. Compassionate politics goes beyond national boundaries and encourages leaders to collaborate with other nations to tackle these challenges with cooperation.
By offering a helping hand to those in need, encouraging diplomacy over hostility, and embracing international solidarity, compassionate politics can lead to more effective global solutions.
Finally, history has shown that political decisions and actions can create wounds that last for generations. Compassionate politics acknowledges historical injustices, seeks reconciliation, and works towards healing societal trauma.
I am truly concerned – as are many others – that our country is slowly being torn apart by personal politics between individuals or political and economic “clans”. Selective perception and interpretations of the nation’s history is being used to fragment the nation. By addressing past wrongs and acknowledging the pain experienced by different communities, leaders can build a foundation for a more united and harmonious future.
Compassionate policies focus on restorative justice and aim to right historical wrongs, fostering a sense of closure and healing. This is what Malaysia truly needs.
Politicians who show compassion are not weak or naive; rather, they demonstrate the strength of the human spirit and a capacity for positive change.
Basically, compassionate politics emphasises the need to embrace empathy, focusing on the welfare of citizens, bridging divides, fostering civil dialogue, tackling global crises with humanity, and mending rifts.
We can create a Malaysia that is more just, equal, and inclusive by incorporating compassion into politics. Political leaders who practice compassion have the ability to improve humankind for future generations, inspire hope, and heal divisions.
Demanding and fostering compassionate politics is in our collective best interest because it is essential to creating a world that is better and more compassionate for all. I believe that if we are unable to create collective happiness in our country, we will be collectively miserable.
Senior lawyer Datuk Seri Dr Jahaberdeen Mohamed Yunoos is the founder of Rapera, a movement which encourages thinking and compassion among Malaysians. The views expressed here are entirely his own.
