SGM Holds First Annual Peace Lecture in Penang; Anwar Fazal Urges Awakening and Action to Build Peace between Humanity and Earth

On 26 October 2025, SGM held its annual peace lecture for the first time at the SGM Penang Culture Centre, featuring a keynote lecture by renowned Malaysian activist Dato’ Seri Dr Anwar Fazal titled “The Path of Coexistence: Self, Humanity and Mother Earth,” attracting around 300 in-person and 127 online participants.

In his opening remarks, SGM General Director Koh Sia Feai emphasised that peace is not merely the absence of conflict but “a living culture built on respect, empathy and shared responsibility.” He urged the public to cultivate peace through daily acts of care and trust within their communities. He also encouraged participants to embrace the ideal of “changing oneself to transform the environment,” and promote peace and sustainability through education, culture and dialogue. 

In his lecture, Dr Anwar highlighted the world’s deepening crises of violence and division, saying that peace goes beyond ending conflict – it embodies respect for life and the commitment to take compassionate action. Using environmental protection as an example, he illustrated the importance of coexistence between humanity and nature, citing legislation in Malaysia dating back to the early 20th century protecting mangroves and rivers as an early example of ecological awareness and sustainable policy.

Addressing social ethics, Dr Anwar referenced Mahatma Gandhi’s “seven social sins” – which include politics without principle, wealth without work, science without humanity, and commerce without compassion – as moral warnings for modern society. He expanded these seven sins to include four more: rights without responsibilities, power without accountability, development without sustainability, and laws without justice. 

He stressed that only through justice, compassion and accountability can lasting peace be achieved. Concluding his speech, he reminded participants that each individual has the power to change the world through small yet meaningful actions. By caring for others and cherishing the planet, peace can take firm root in everyday life.

Participant Samuel Gopal shared that the lecture prompted him to reflect on the disconnect between today’s youth and social realities, because without such awareness, one cannot truly grasp the meaning of world peace. He affirmed that peace begins with awareness and compassion, and that by understanding society and taking action, everyone can contribute to creating a better, more harmonious world.

Reported by Eng Joo Min