TellShell: A debate contribution posted on "TellShell" by Dr John Huong: "Basic moral standards whether learnt from the Sacred Scriptures or even enshrined in a corporate code of conduct, provide an ethical framework from which we depart at our peril. Honesty, integrity, transparency and respect for each other - our family members, work colleagues, friends, business investors and fellow citizens of this crowded planet, are all absolutely vital ingredients if the human species is to survive in a civilised form." (ShellNews.net)

Posted 6 Sept 04

A REPLY TO "RACHEL"

Dear Rachel,

I would certainly not use Sacred Scriptures - The Word - to sanctify or excuse man's ungodly behaviour, whether in our private lives or in the commercial arena. If we choose to do so, we will corrupt and corrode the pivotal anchor in our lives with respect to the subject of righteousness - a very serious matter that will surely destroy the very fabric of our society.

This is where we Malaysians understand and accommodate one another very well - creating harmony through knowing and respecting racial, religious and cultural sensitivities in a country blessed with such rich history and heritage.

My friends and I in the global village are still focused on what we have to do to create understanding, peace and love: a daunting task in view of the recent truly shocking events in a Russian School full of young children. All of our prayers (and tears) are of course for the people of Beslan, the injured, and those poor families who are in mourning for their loved ones. Isn't this a picture that is truly depressing? We look forward to the day when there is reasonable protection from oppressors, from corporate plunders/polluters of the planet and of course from terrorists.

More than ever we all need good, not bad leadership examples in religion, business and government. We also need the UN’s Universal Declaration of Human Rights to be, as the title implies, universally observed, including the fundamentally important right to freedom of - expression - a human right which I sadly do not currently enjoy. Thus I am somewhat constrained in my comments.

Basic moral standards whether learnt from the Sacred Scriptures or even enshrined in a corporate code of conduct, provide an ethical framework from which we depart at our peril. Honesty, integrity, transparency and respect for each other - our family members, work colleagues, friends, business investors and fellow citizens of this crowded planet, are all absolutely vital ingredients if the human species is to survive in a civilised form.

Thank you and God Bless

Sincerely,
John