On 10 December 2023, SGM organised the Building a Culture of Peace: 2023 Annual Peace Lecture at the SGM Headquarters Culture Centre. The invited speaker, International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) rector Prof Emeritus Tan Sri Dato’ Dr Dzulkifli Abdul Razak delivered a lecture titled “From Nuclear Shadows to Sustainable Dawn: Charting a Path to Peace” to some 600 people on-site, while some 230 individuals joined online.
In her opening speech, SGM peace committee leader Joanne Foo spoke about the history of the SGM peace movement. She added that SGM will continue to strive in creating a century of hope for humanity.
Two student division representatives read out their pledges to create a world of peace, while a group of youths sang “Invincible Forever,” a song that conveys the spirit of vowing to create a new age of respect for humanity.
In his lecture, Tan Sri Dzulkifli emphasised the importance of cultivating a perspective on happiness that extends beyond personal gratification and leaves an enduring impact on the world. He also said that courage is an important quality often lacking in today’s society, urging those present to speak out for peace and bring forth happiness.
Tan Sri Dzulkifli then presented data about past and current wars, underscoring the potential for the use of bombs as long as they remain in existence. He said the cessation of wars is unlikely unless there is a shared universal value among all individuals.
Later during the question-and-answer session, Tan Sri Dzulkifli stressed the need to embrace the values of compassion, empathy and sympathy in one’s life.
SGM peace committee advisor Prof. Dato Dr Christopher Boey, who was the moderator, concluded that education is the most direct means to address any issue. He emphasised the importance of fostering more people who respect life.
