By TK Chua

Racism and religious extremism is a result of “brainwashing”. Racial and religious bigotry is the product of years of indoctrination and inculcation.

Once they are influenced, becoming parochial would be their second nature. While we look at them as irrational, they would look at us as traitors to their race and religion. This is the extent of polarisation that the country is experiencing today.

Sometimes we ask why have we allowed such bigotry to thrive and why we didn’t fight back the tide hard enough.

I think the fight against bigotry is a propaganda war similar to how it is promoted. A one time message or occasional explanation on the evils of racial and religious bigotry is not sufficient.

We can’t fight racism through occasional rational explanations, hence we need a propaganda war as well.

Those believing in moderation and inclusiveness must do more. They must challenge every attempt by those trying to make the country more racist. They must expose and put to shame those promoting such an ideology.

Lately, we have seen more extreme ideas and statements being made almost unhindered. In fact, racists and extremists are being promoted as heroes of their community or religion.

Increasingly, the voices of reason and moderation are becoming more subdued as if they are afraid or ashamed to speak up.

I don’t think we can ever fight extremism if those promoting it are becoming bold and those fighting against it are turning docile.

When racism and extremism become the norm, we know wrong has become right. It is fashionable now to boast of one’s race and religion with total disregard for others.

It is time to fight back the tide of racism and extremism. The process of fighting back must be as tenacious as those promoting them.

The virtue of moderation and inclusiveness must be promoted constantly and relentlessly. Every act of kindness, inclusiveness and tolerance must be commended and, if feasible, rewarded as well.

Every voice of extremism must be confronted and challenged without hesitation. Every act of extremism and racism must be shunned and boycotted.

Every extremist must be challenged to a debate and put to shame.

We must be as resolute in fighting racism as those who are promoting such bigotry.

We are finished if we allow racists and extremists to control the agenda of this country.

TK Chua is an FMT reader.

The views expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of FMT.