THE suggestion by our ambassador to Singapore Datuk N. Parasmeswaran that Ma- laysians emulate P. Ramlee in achieving national unity is worth pondering as we approach our 51st Merdeka celebrations.

P. Ramlee, who was an icon in the Malay film industry, has much to teach the younger generations about living in peace and harmony.

Most of his films were race- and colour-blind and made for the masses.

All races adored him for his cinematic skills.

One tends to be nostalgic when one thinks of the past when people of various races mingled with one another easily.

Unity in diversity should be the core values of our society rather than racial division.

Peace and harmony can only be achieved if we don’t adopt myopic ways of thinking and do not look at other people with blinkers.

HAMDAN IBRAHIM, Kuala Lumpur

Source: NST – August 28, 2008