November 16, 2025

malay.today

New Norm New Thinking

Emulating the Best: A Call to Youth Inspired by YB Dato’ Dr. Akmal Saleh

In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to lose sight of the values that truly matter. One of the most important lessons we can learn is the profound respect and love we owe to our parents. This message, often repeated but seldom heeded, finds a powerful embodiment in the life and actions of YB Dato’ Dr. Akmal Saleh. As someone who has consistently demonstrated respect and care for his parents, his example serves as a vital reminder for today’s youth.

A Call to the Youth

I urge the younger generation to follow in the footsteps of YB Dato’ Dr. Akmal Saleh. His behavior towards his parents is a shining example of the best character and morals that we should all strive to practice in our lives. It deeply touches me to see how some young people today exhibit neglectful attitudes towards their parents, whether they are still living or have passed on to the eternal realm.

The reality is that if you want to succeed in life, you must honor, cherish, and show affection to your parents while they are still with you. They are your pillars, the ones who have nurtured you, and their blessings are invaluable. Do not take their presence for granted, for a time will come when you will long for their guidance, care, and love, but they will no longer be there to give it.

The Importance of Prayer and Remembrance

If your parents have already passed away, do not forget them in your prayers. Every time you perform your daily prayers, make it a point to ask for their forgiveness and well-being in the hereafter. Remember, while they were in this world, they were tirelessly nurturing you, praying for your success and well-being, hoping that you would grow to be a person of value in this world and the hereafter.

This note is my humble message to YB Dato’ Dr. Akmal Saleh. I was deeply moved when I watched the video of him that captured his heartfelt connection with his parents. It is my sincere hope that he continues to find success in his political journey within UMNO, which is a path without a clear end in sight. The only way to navigate this journey successfully is through the blessings and prayers of our parents.

The Role of Parental Prayers and the Importance of Salawat

Our parents’ prayers are our strongest shields against the trials of life. Their satisfaction with us is a direct channel to gaining the mercy and favor of Allah SWT. Besides our duty to our parents, we must also continuously send our blessings upon Prophet Muhammad SAW. It is through Salawat that we express our love and reverence for the Prophet, which in turn brings peace and blessings into our lives.

A Lesson for the Generations to Come

I intend to share this video widely, hoping it will serve as a guiding light for young people, including my own children and grandchildren. My prayer is that they, too, will make it a habit to pray for the happiness and well-being of their parents, whether they are still with us in this world or have moved on to the next. Respect and cherish your parents while they are here in this world, full of challenges and uncertainties.

The teachings of Prophet Muhammad SAW emphasise the utmost respect and obedience towards our parents. Our relationship with them is one of the most sacred bonds we will ever have. It is through them that we first learn about love, sacrifice, and devotion.

Akhir kalam

In closing, my heartfelt prayers go out to YB Dato’ Dr. Akmal Saleh and his family. May he continue to be blessed with success and may his example inspire others to honor their parents with the same devotion and care. Let us all take this lesson to heart: respect, cherish, and love your parents with all your might. Their prayers are the foundation upon which your success in this world and the hereafter is built.