STUDENT POLITICS AND INTELLECTUAL GROWTH

Aliran is concerned about Backbenchers Club president Ruhanie Ahmad’s threat against students who are actively involved in party politics.

Ruhanie had called on the government to withdraw scholarships and other financial assistance from these students, particularly those who support the opposition Islamic party, PAS.

From his statement, it appears that it is all right for these students to engage in political activities that support the ruling coalition - just like their counterparts overseas who are actively involved in UMNO Clubs.

We feel it is unjust for the government to favour overseas students over local ones as if somehow implying that the local students are politically immature. Ruhanie’s statement also reveals an inability to understand that the aid given to students does not come from political party coffers but from taxpayers’ hard-earned money.

His sentiments also reflect the government’s intolerant attitude towards differing and dissenting views, which is necessary in a democratic society.  They also contradict the government’s professed desire to build a civil society in which citizens have an important role to play in public life.

Society doesn’t progress just because everyone happens to think alike. Rather, an atmosphere conducive to debating issues, evaluating alternative views and questioning the established order is the cornerstone to intellectual development and growth.

Finally, rather than threatening students, the government should be encouraging them to be more politically conscious and intellectually perceptive to face the many challenges in the country and to contribute to meaningful development.

Dr Mustafa K Anuar
Executive Committee Member
20 November 1997