Non-governmental organisation Undi Malaysia is forging ahead with its work to create more activists to fight for change despite Putrajaya's ongoing sedition blitz.
The NGO, which runs an activism school, is looking for new participants to help them understand the Federal Constitution and the value of human rights.
"We are apolitical. Maybe some are from political parties but the majority of us are neutral.
"The majority of Malaysians now feel that politics is disappointing. We should not place our future in the hands of politicians. Instead it should involve the people themselves," trainer Animah Kosai told The Malaysian Insider today.
Yesterday, Hindraf founder P. Uthayakumar was released from Kajang prison after serving his sentence for sedition committed seven years ago.
Uthayakumar is among several people including politicians, activists and two university professors who have recently been charged with or are under investigation for sedition.
The activism school's second intake will be from October 18 to December 6. And, those aged between 18 and 35 are encouraged to join.
Those interested can apply at http://goo.gl/eUGCcV before October 15. Only 15 people will be selected to follow the programme for free.
Animah said the school places emphasis on leadership skills and a deeper understanding fn what is needed to be an activist.
She said it is not easy to be an activist, especially when there is no support from family and friends.
"We emphasise self-awareness and inculcate leadership skills. They also need to know about self-limits and the limits of those who need motivation.
"For example, if you are interested in fighting for the rights of children, the motivation behind it has to be understood because without a deeper understanding, we can easily get tired because no one is behind our backs."
A student of the school's first intake, Quratulain Atiqah Norzahirul Anuar, said there are four levels to the programme which expose participants to how society can play its part.
"First, is the role of people as citizens, whether they are active or passive. If we are passive, we will not know anything, but if we are active, we will be aware of what is happening around us.
"Second are the pressure groups who are aware that they will be active in society. And the third is agents of social change, who will spread the news to society, create awareness and conduct programmes.
"Lastly are the reformists who are inclined towards change such as coming up with new policies or laws."
- TMI
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