My good friend Dato Muslim from the Rotary Club of Pudu recently sent me an email asking me why some Rotarians are posting material of a political nature in the Rotary group email. One in particular referred to some article which apparently appeared in the Times of India about our PM Dato’ Seri Najib Tun Razak employing APCO for his image building. This story was apparently published in Free Malaysia Today (FMT).
The interesting fact is that Dato Muslim did a search with the Times of India to verify the authenticity of this article and he says, ”Regret article not found. I wonder why this Rotarian is passing this FMT story around. Doesn’t he know that Rotary is non-political, non-racial and non-religious?”
Good question.
Rotary is a service organization of business and professional leaders whom are united globally to carry out humanitarian projects, encourage high ethical standards in all vocations, work towards world understanding and peace – and encourage fun and fellowship in local communities around the world.
I cannot emphasize enough that Rotary is a non-religious, non-political, non-sectarian organization.
It is a fact of life that people have different political views, have differing opinions on moral questions and religion and come from different backgrounds. Rotary is a uniting influence and this unity is forged in order that we all can put our differences aside and serve humanity.
Since the inception of Rotary we have made a real contribution to the quality of life of people around the world. The programs of Rotary have provided exceptional opportunities for youth leaders and young people in general – along with the aged and handicapped; we have contributed millions of dollars to a myriad of vital community projects; we have worked hard to lift vocational standards and business ethics within our professions and businesses; and we have almost eradicated polio from the face of the Earth.
And it’s important to acknowledge that we have achieved all of the above without intrusion into the family and social lives of our members. It is generally agreed that everyone serves in our own way, in whatever way the can and for their own reasons.
My friends, Politics is divisive and whatever our convictions are, we should keep it out of Rotary. I believe strongly in this.
My final word on politics is that of Aesop, “We hang the petty thieves and appoint the great ones to public office.”
Notwithstanding my personal views on the subject, I most certainly welcome and will publish any comment on the subject.
