At the beginning of this year, I was approached by a friend to assist and advice a programme. It is a very special programme indeed:
MuslimModelShow2016 (#MMS2016).
I accepted the challenge without too much thought as this is the kind of initiative from the youth that I hope to encourage.
Thus began my journey in this interesting and challenging task.
The organiser has the advantage of experience as this is the second season of the show, the first being in 2014.
However at that time it was tagged on with a Bridal Show thus logistics were available.
The problem faced by the young organisers is funding. Although related industry contacts were approached and many were willing to participate, most were contributing in kind and not cash.
This posed a difficult challenge to the team.
Despite the obstacles and being a responsible organiser to the registered contestants, the first episode of the programme went ahead on the 14th February. A good turnout of about 120 contestants made it a good start. In this episode the top 45 were selected to be shortlisted to a final Top20 by the end of the season.
In assisting this young group, I myself had lots to learn whilst giving them my two cents worth.
I have been touched and moved by their enthusiasm and commitment to achieve their goal.
The second episode too was a success which set the bar for future episodes.
Despite being a last minute arrangement, MBPJ came out in support with allowing the use of the location and providing the logistics.
The organising team was truly touched and motivated with the facilities provided. I do not think they had even imagined it.
In these two episodes, I had the honour of socialising with the contestants too. They are truly a great bunch of committed and passionate youth, dedicated to pursuing a dream.
Most had come in as strangers and in just two meetings over a fortnight, they have built a friendship to last a lifetime.
From strangers they are now bonded as brothers and sisters: thats the greatness of Islam (and all religion) at its best.
These young people needed guidance in this journey to be the best and #MMS2016 has a team of professional jurist each a specialist in their own field.
Once again, I see and learn what passion and commitment is all about. These jurist take on the responsibility admirably. They treat all the contestants like family: guiding and leading each one like their own child.
Thus I am truly honoured to be a part of #MMS2016.
Why is a Chinese Christian involved in a Muslim Model Show? My answer to this is...
This is what makes Malaysia special. Our different culture and religion does not divide us but brings us together. It is our strength. Unity in diversity.
May this initiative be a catalyst to bring our nation forward and let our youth lead the way.
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