TODAY, more than 465,000 students nationwide will know their SPM results. Many will jump for joy for having done well. There will be a few who will be overcome with sadness, disappointed with their results, and there will be those rueing their fate for not getting the results expected.

Whatever the outcome, these young people should be reminded that if it is sweet success, well and good, but that it is only the beginning of a long passage to a more challenging future. If unsuccessful, it is not the end of the world. Strive harder to experience the ultimate success. Remember Albert Einstein, Bill Gates and many others!

As adults we should encourage children to look ahead with confidence and never allow success to get to their heads or failure to drag them down. Instead plan for the future strategically and effectively to continue with life’s journey and one day become useful to family, community and nation. Aspire to act in whatever way you can for the greater good of humanity.

As Malaysians, take it upon yourself to ensure that this country remains a land of peace and harmony. As eventual leaders of this sovereign state, children must be made to realise that they shoulder a big responsibility in ensuring the novel attributes of the 1Malaysia concept become a reality. Best wishes to all.

Zamri Mahmud
Kuala Lumpur

Source: The Sun – March 11, 2010