SHAH ALAM: There is a general consensus in our society that the younger generation today, regardless of their racial and religious background, no longer believe in the ideal way of life that our ancestors lived.
And almost immediately the first thing to come to the mind is the eroding moral values and character of the youths.
Youths of today are leaders of tomorrow and they have a pertinent role to play in perpetuating the social and cultural legacy of a society.
However, many feel that if the social woes faced by the youths of today are anything to go by, then they are heading the wrong way.
Yet, are the youths solely to blame for the social predicament that we are facing now?
Before pointing a finger at the youths we have to examine the many facets of life that are evolving dynamically, with some becoming irrelevant, some losing their priority, and new ones emerging that do not go down well with the older generation.
Life today is filled with temptations, and the right choice decides the right direction.
Youths, including students and undergraduates are seen as vulnerable in making the right choice.
And their choices in life are closely associated with the dos and don’ts at every stage of life as a youth.
Curfew hours outside the home are a good example.
“Many public universities impose curfew hours for those staying on campus. The cut-off time to leave or enter the campus grounds is midnight. This is being imposed, among others, by UiTM and UUM,” noted a young lady recently.
The lure of the nightlife is evident for undergraduates at higher education institutions located in major cities.
“A course mate of mine did not return until 6 am on the following day. I was not sure where he went or what he was up to but he claimed that he literally stayed overnight at a nearby 24/7 fast-food outlet,” elaborated an arts undergraduate in Selangor who only described her name as J Liyana, 19.
Classes start at 8am or 9am, therefore those who live off campus can still make it to the lectures the following day, she said.
Entertainment outlets previously had restricted operating hours; they have to close by 1am.
However, there are entertainment centres, especially those patronised by foreigners, that operate until 3am, observed a security firm employee in Selangor. And this is why the youths too stay up late.
What are these youngsters up to? Are they staying out late for group study or just to have fun withtheir new found freedom?
The writer has come across situations when parents were asked on how to ensure their growing up children toe the line.
One of the parents observed that the art of bringing up children today calls for a different approach.
There are just too many temptations out there that can easily divert youths from their studies and work.
And what is youth’s perception of character and the role of religion in their lives?
Are noble values and religion still relevant in their daily lives?
“The good virtues in life are always relevant to me, regardless of whether in the personal realm or in my occupation as an auditor in the Klang Valley. In fact, I’m looked upon as the role model.
“I have to make sure I have strong principles – integrity, honesty, discipline, trustworthiness – and that I be firm and responsible. Those with good character are hard to come by,” noted an auditor living in Bandar Utama, Zinnirah Abbas, 35.
She said that religion, along with sound education and family background, has a big role to play in moulding one’s character and professional ethics.
Suhana Lina Sarkawi from Sarawak believes a person with strong religious values will reflect good character.
“Religion is a way of life. Character reflects one’s attitude and behaviour. It is not very different now. The differentiating factor is one’s level of adaptability with the surrounding. As long as one’s beliefs are in line with religion, the character is not easily influenced,” she said.
A general observation on the affluent group indicate that they face higher chances of being exposed to factors that erode character, while the have-not’s have a stronger will to preserve their character.
Environment is not the absolute factor in effecting changes in one’s character, and it depends on individual choice.
“The elements relating to character are quite complicated, but those who keep up with the religious tenets will be able to maintain their character.
“Education and upbringing also contribute to good character. As humans, we have to make the right choices to live in righteousness and with modesty. Again it is all a matter of choice,” continued Suhana, adding that it is important for Muslims to delve deeper into religion.
Good character and disposition will make one a role model of society. To be of good character does not mean one has to denounce modernity.
In the final analysis, character is what makes youths and their future. — Bernama