The 9Th Methodist Convention - "Spreading Scriptural Holiness, Transforming The Nation (Talk 2) - Part 11 (Final)

Bishop Rev Dr. Hwa Yong quoted David Aikman, saying, "The Christian moral foundation of social cultural life was what made possible the emergence of capitalism and then the successful transition to democratic politics".

Bishop then touched on what transformation would involve. Saying there is much that we need to do, Bishop outlined the following points:

1. Christians must be committed to this country (Malaysia). What implications does this have for emigration?

2. How then shall we live? Bishop Rev Dr. Hwa Yong quoted 2 Peter 3 : 11f, saying:

-Good works

-Holiness and integrity in private and public lives

-Avoid dishonest gain; and resist and expose corruption wherever possible

-Get involved if God is calling you

3. Be prepared for the long haul.

Wilberforce's battle in the British Parliament took 46 years!

Bishop then put to the congregation two thought-provoking questions:

1. What plans do you have for your children?

"Bear in mind that, in history, a lot of movements started with the young people," Bishop said.

2. The power of prayers

Pray hard to let God use us to make Malaysia a better country!

The picture shows The Hoover Mission House and Hoover Square. Photo: David Ling

The 9Th Methodist Convention - "Spreading Scriptural Holiness, Transforming The Nation (Talk 2) - Part 10

Bishop Rev Dr. Hwa Yong in his call to Malaysian Christians to be committed to the nation, listed out stiff challenges confronting them.

"We need to be caring towards the poor, homeless, etc. Can we do something to help them? Simply put, can Malaysian Christians take up social -caring role?" Bishop put the challenge to the congregation.

"Can we be an honest and moral community?" Bishop asked.

On the issue of corruption in Malaysia, Bishop Rev Dr. Hwa Yong challenged Malaysian Christians to lead in anti-corruption. Bishop then gave a personsl testimony on how he avoided help from loaded Christians who obtained business contracts unethically.

Moving on further, Bishop made the stand of Malaysian Christians very clear: To fight for justice!

"If you are genuinely committed to transformation, you must be prepared to go on for years. Just take a look at William Wiberforce - it took him 46 years to repeal slavery laws in England - and you will appreciate how lengthy this nature of battle may be," Bishop said.

The VIPs posed for a group photo before the opening ceremony of Hoover Square and Hoover Mission House. Front row:YB Vincent Goh (first from left), Datuk & Datin Tiong Thai King (third & second from left), Rev Dr. Su Chi Ann (fifth from left), Bishop Rev Dr. Hwa Yong (sixth from left), Rev kong Chong Lin (first from right), Datuk Hii Yii Peng (second from right), Honorary Bishop Rev Dr. Peter Choo (third from right), Dato Seri Wong Soon Koh & Datin Seri (fifth & fourth from right). Photo: Ting Leng Kieh

The 9th Methodist Convention - Spreading Scriptural Holiness, Transforming The Nation (Talk 2) - Part 9

Bishop Rev Dr. Hwa Yong emphasised that modern democratic society, with its concern for equality, human rights, freedom and justice did not emerge in any other culture, except the Christian culture of the west. "If Christians grasp this important fact, then we should want to defend these even much more than non-Christians around us," Bishop told the congregation.

"We want democracy. Christians should take the lead to defend the system. China is waking to democracy. Both Christians and non-Christians there strive hard for it," Bishop added.

Bishop Rev Dr. Hwa Yong then put a challenge to the church members: How committed are we to Malaysia?

Bishop noted that a lot of Sibu Christians have migrated to other countries. "Don't talk about transformation if you are not committed to Malaysia," he pointed out.

The picture shows Dato Sri Wong Soon Koh (3rd from right) being presented with a memento after he officiated the opening ceremony of Hoover Square and Hoover Mission House. 3rd from left is Bishop Rev Dr. Hwa Yong. Photo: www.sibudongcheng.blogspot.com

The 9Th Methodist Convention - "Spreading Scriptural Holiness, Transforming The Nation (Talk 2) - Part 8

As Christians, we are concerned with democracy, freedom and justice, human rights and religious freedom. The fundamental principles of these concepts are rooted in Western christian gospel redemption, not in Chinese culture.

"Careful study will show the conceptes like democracy, human rights and freedom are rooted in the Gospel. (Cf. Ronald J. Sider, The Scandal of Evangelical Politics, Baker, 2008; especially Chaps. 4-7, & 9)," Bishop said.

Bishop then further elaborated on the basis of the scripture," Gen 1:26f has this to say about Human Rights: Everyone is created in the image of God. On Democracy, John 3:16 and Gal 3:26-28 spell out clearly that 'All are equal'."

On checks and balance in government, Bishop Rev Dr. Hwa Yong explained," There should not be absolute power, as in Malaysia now. This concept is rooted in Rom 3:23 which says: All humans are sinful."

The picture shows Hoover Square which will be officially opened on August 16 at 10.30 a.m. Our CM has been invited to officiate the grand opening ceremony. Photo: Steve Ling

The 9Th Methodist Convention - "Spreading Scriptural Holiness, Transforming The Nation" (Talk 2) - Part 7

Bishop Rev Dr. Hwa Yong further elaborated the reasons as to why Christians have been reluctant to get involved in politics. "Modernists and conservatists differ in their perceptions of the duty of Christians. As a consequence, a lot of Christians have forgetten about influencing the society," Bishop concluded.

Social reform and gospel spreading are equally important. In Malaysia, there is now a rising awareness of the importance of political involvement. "But as Christians, we should never neglect to spread gospel," Bishop reminded the audience.

Knowing the rising concern, we have got to be very sure as to why we should be concerned.

"Firstly, salvation includes all of life. Secondly, Christians are salt and light of the world (Matthew 5:13-16). Thirdly, concepts like democracy, human rights and freedom are rooted in the gospel of Christ," Bishop explained.

Picture of The Masland Methodist Church taken in the twilight. The church shall hold a dedication service on August 16 to give glorification to God for the extension project. Photo: David Ling

The 9Th Methodist Convention - "Spreading Scriptural Holiness, Transforming The Nation" (Talk 2) - Part 6

Bishop Rev Dr. Hwa Yong pointed out that, in Malaysia, we can't reform just by politics.

"Political parties are not strong enough. However, Christians, if committed, can reform our society," Bishop added.

Generally, Christians in Malaysia have been reluctant to get involved in politics. Bishop cited two important reasons for this social phenomenon.

Firstly, Chinese culture plays a dominating role. As a migratory people,, we are concerned mainly with family and clan. We take care of those on the 'inside'. We focus on our own well-being and generally play safe. and if things go bad, we just pack up and leave.

Secondly, a wrong theology has led to popular misconceptions. Many 20th century evangelicals have accepted a dualistic and spiritualised understanding of salvation, the tendency is for them to advocate a withdrawal from the 'public square' and its concomitant of a 'life-boat ethics'. The world of public affairs is the place where the devil and sin hold sway. It is like a sinking ship in the midst of the storms of life. There is no point in trying to save it, whether through doing good works or socio-political change. Instead we have better jump into the 'life-boat, i.e. the church, and leave the world to sink! So don't waste time of changing the world.

The wrong theology further dictates that our priority is evangelism; socio-political concerns are secondary at best.

Many Chinese church leaders had a similar theology, including John Sung and Watchman Nee.

"Take note of the correction made by the Lausanne Covenant (1974) : 'that evangelism and socio-political involvement are both part of our Christian duty'," Bishop said.

The photo shows the choir singing to the glory of our God in The Masland Methodist Church. Photo: Brother David Ling

The 9Th Methodist Convention - "Spreading Scriptural Holiness, Transforming The Nation" (Talk 2) - Part 5

The 18th century Revival undeniably successfully transformed England. Further to that, Bishop Rev Dr. Hwa Yong cited the Christian movements in South America and Eastern Europe where depressed Christians came up to reform the society.

"It was the commitment to gospel, to God, that drove the reform movements," Bishop said.

"What is of significance is God-driven commitment towards transforming society. Number (of committed people) is rather unimportant," Bishop reiterated.

If John Wesley and the revival laid the foundations of social-political transformation, what does that have to teach us?

"It simply tells us that national transformation is a possibility," Bishop made it very clear to the audience.

Bishop Rev Dr. Hwa Yong quoted Cf. Robert Bellah, a Berkely sociologist, saying," I think we should not underestimate the significance of the small number of people who have a new vision of a just and gentle world. In Japan a small minority of Protestant Christians introduced ethics into politics, and had an impact beyond all proportion to their numbers. They were central in beginning the women's movement, labor unions, socialist parties, and virtually every reform movement. The quality of a culture can be changed when two percent of its people have a new vision."

The picture shows the pipe organ in The Masland Methodist Church. This is one of the more outstanding features of the extended church. Photo: http://www.dr-david-ling.blogspot.com/ (Thank you, Brother David, for the use.)

The 9Th Methodist Convention - "Spreading Scriptural Holiness, Transforming The Nation (Talk 2) - Part 4

Bishop Rev Dr. Hwa Yong quoted Luke Keefer and his writings, saying England was the only nation in Europe which successfully carried out a social revolution in the period 1763 - 1914 without widespread of violence. "As such, England was admired by foreign observers for its unique blending of personal freedom and social stability," Bishop made further quotation.

"As Halevy saw it, it was a matter of Methodism acting in concert with other factors in the complex British scene which produced the England of the nineteenth century. This interpretation may not sit well with Marxist philosphy, but it fits very well with the historical data," Bishop Rev Dr. Hwa Yong added.

Bishop cited moral and slavery reforms as two of the distinct evidences of the 18th century Revival which transformed England.

"Slavery was definitely against God's will. William Wilberforce fought hard for years in the parliament to bring about a dramatic reform in slavery system in England. The work of William Welberforce and Clapham Sect followed immediately after the work of John Wesley and the Early Methodists. It is clear that Wilberforce and his co-workers built on the fruits of the revival," Bishop said.

The picture shows another wonderful song sharing during the convention. Photo: http://www.sibudongcheng.blogspot.com/

The 9Th Methodist Convention - "Spreading Scriptural Holiness, Transforming The Nation" (Talk 2) - Part 3

Bishop Rev Dr. Hwa Yong provoked the thinking of the audience by making a call on them,"Don't sit on the fence! Don't worship two Gods."

"Is the church now sitting on the fence?" Bishop put it to the church members.

Moving on from there, Bishop stressed that there must be revival in the church first before it can transform the nation.

Did Methodistism transform England in 18th century? Was John Wesley actually used by God to transform the nation?

Marxist and secular historians generally sought to play down John Wesley's contribution. But others argued that John Wesley and the 18th century Revival played a significant role.

Bishop went on to point out that discipline and transformation actually lifted the power up in the society then. He called the church revival in England a bloodless reform by John Wesley.

The picture shows Johnny Tang & Mrs sharing a song of praise at one of the sessions during the convention. Picture: www.sibudongcheng.blogspot.com

The 9Th Methodist Convention - "Spreading Scriptural Holiness, Transforming The Nation" ( Talk 2 )- Part 2

'Spreading Scriptural Holiness, Transforming The Nation" comes from John Wesley, the founder of the Methodist Movement.

In his introductory remark, Bishop made it crystal clear that " this theme is not a Methodist version of the Reformsi slogan used by certain politicians in our country". The theme has its root way back to England in 18th century.

John Wesley and his preachers asked at one of their Annual Conferences, " What may we reasonably believe to be God's design in raising up the Preachers called Methodists?"

And the answer given in the Large Minutes (1763) was: "To reform the nation and, in particular, the Church; to spread scriptural holiness over the land."

Bishop stressed that John Wesley's statement has got to be understood against the background of 18th century England, a country then in a state of gross spiritual, moral and social decline.

John Wesley recognised that sinful humanity stood under the judgement and wrath of God. At the same time he was concerned over the need for spiritual and moral reform in the nation.

Bishop Rev Dr. Hwa Yong further spoke to the audience that "John Wesley understood very well that spiritual and moral change came only through deep-seated repentance."

And for that to happen, John Wesley believed that the Church had to be fully committed to the task of evangelisation, and work towards a widespread revival that would bring about holiness in personal and social life, and transformation in the nation.

The extended Masland Methodist Church has magnificent interiors. This church was the venue for the 9th Methodist Convention.

The 9Th Methodist Convention - Spreading Scriptural Holiness, Transforming The Nation (Talk 2) - Part 1

The Convention's theme "Spreading Scriptural Holiness, Transforming The Nation" is also the GC's theme for the next four years.

Bishop Rev Dr. Hwa Yong expounded the theme exceedingly well, manifesting conciseness and clarity in his points, and was unreservedly straightforward in putting forward his views which were perceived to be sensitive.

Bishop divided his theme talk into two parts. I regretably missed part 1. From some of the church members I spoke to, I was made to understand that the theme talk was well received.

The theme talk (2) was scheduled on day 2 of the Convention. It was equally an eye-opener and it raised the eye-brows of many. I followed through with note-taking to the best of my ability. At the end of Bishop's talk, an urge rose high up inwardly to share the message in my blog.

Boldness and openness were two of the main features of the theme talk. Bishop Rev Dr. Hwa Yong essentially opened up the mindset of the audience, taking them to face up to the challenge of standing firm as Christians in this era of reform.

Thank God for speaking to us through Bishop!

Bishop Rev Dr. Hwa Yong's theme talk was translated by Rev Dr. Tie king Tai (on the left ). Photo: Wong Meng Lei

The 9Th Methodist Convention - The Future Of Sarawak From A Christian Perspective - Part 21 (Final)

Brother Tan Kee Hian incorporated the key principles of blue ocean strategy in the storyline. As such, he made no specific reference to the strategy in his entire proceedings.

However, he quoted an example of Methodist University College to illustrate the key principles to enable the audience to have a better grasp.

Touching on Methodist University College, Kee Hian provoked the thinking of the audience by asking whether the proposed university is just an addition to 70-100 universities and colleges already in existence? Kee hian said it might be a good thing to do so, if imparting the principles as stated by Rev John Barrett. The key principle here is to have first commitment to imparting good education, with commercial return being a secondary onjective.

However, Tan Kee Hian went on, greater impact could be achieved by taking a Blue Ocean Strategy approach. The essence of Blue Ocean Strategy is to formulate strategy in an uncontested developmental space. The set-up of the proposed Methodist University College should be strategised as not just another "vanilla" university education. Rather it should be planned out as something creating exceptional values for students, parents and the nation. For example, vocational, technical and semi-professional expertise and capabilities are critical for moving up the value chain.

On economic aspect, Kee Hian quoted the example of larger-scale eco-tourism.

On social aspect, Kee Hian cited caring for the elderly and elderly as coaches to younger people as examples.

Tan Kee Hian is a widely acclaimed Blue Ocean Strategy consultant. His consultancy work has taken him on an extensive global journey, travelling from East to West, covering both rich and emerging nations. With his knowledge and expertise in strategic planning, Kee Hian hopes to be able to shed light in Sibu on its struggle to grow.

The 9Th Methodist Convention - The Future Of Sarawak From A Christian Perspective - Part 20

After his illustrative outline of broad economic development directions for Sarawak, Kee Hian moved on to touch on social development directions for the state.

Brother Tan Kee Hian illustrated 5 key areas that Sarawak may embark on to upgrade its social developments.

1. Accelerate the development of human capital and knowledge. Tap the easy access to talented non-Sarawak

resources.

2. Re-align education policy (or certain portion) with development stage and market realities.

3. Healthcar

- Give better coverage especially to rueal areas and lower income people.

4. Create emplotments for local talents and workers. Raise productivity and earning levels.

5. Infrastructur

-Investment and quality should be consistent with economic status.

At the public forum last year at MPI, Tan Kee Hian shared his experiences in his global journey as a strategic consultant. Photo: Terrence Tan of MPI

The 9Th Methodist Convention - The Future Of Sarawak From A Christian Perspective - Part 19

Sarawak has immense untapped potentials for further developments to transform the state. In other words, Sarawakians should be optimistic about the future so long as the state's economic directions and our governance are right and proper.

Take the example of our rich natural resources, Sarawak is potentially an emerging state with a shining future if we tread along in the right directions under sound leadership.

Brother Tan Kee Hian in his proceedings touched on broad economic development directions for Sarawak in the state's look-out for greater growth. In an illustrative manner, Kee Hian outlined 7 directions which the state may embark on to lift up its outlook.

In Brother Kee Hian's wordings, the 7 development directions are as follows:

1. Continue to develop existing industries:

- Like oil and gas (O & G), and tourism.

2. Leverage low-cost hydro-energy to drive further industralisation.

-With due consideration for the environment and people development.

3. Aggressive push to go downstream in key commodities:

- Palm oil, timber

4. Develop and upgrade agriculture and aquaculture sectors:

- Science-based and industrial scale

-Commercially-driven enterprises

5. Develop and strengthen local SMEs in focused sub-sectors:

- Align with industrial development plans

- For example, raw materials, products and services for oil and gas, agriculture/aquaculture, aluminum smelter,

hydro-electric plants, etc.

6. Grow domestic consumption.

7. Step-change in execution.

The photo shows Tan Kee Hian speaking at a public forum last year at Methodist Pilley Institute on the outlook for Sibu. Calling Sibu a "slumbering giant", Kee Hian delivered extremely thought-provoking views about Sibu.

The 9Th Methodist Convention - The Future Of Sarawak From A Christian Perspective - Part 18

Brother Tan Kee Hian in his talk delivered at the 9th Methodist Convention highlighted the profound importance of good governance in running a state. He cited the success stories of other comparable nations with outstanding economic performance to stress this point.

In his proceedings, Kee Hian listed eight characteristics of good governance.

1. Participatory - A good governance has got to be very open to participation.

2. Consensus-oriented

3. Accountable

4. Transparent

5. Responsive

6. Effective and efficient

7. Equitable

8. The Rule of Law

The picture shows Tan Kee Hian meeting up with some local bloggers in a teh tarik session at Premier Hotel. Photo: Liong

The 9Th Methodist Convention - The Future Of sarawak From A Christian Perspective - Part 17

Tan Kee Hian expounded with clarity and conciseness on the talk "The Future Of Sarawak From A Christian Perspective". His presentation was more factual than theoretical, thus making it exceptionally enlightening and eye-opening.

Brother Kee Hian's talk touched on issues perceived to be more sensitive, pricking the nerves of certain leaders here and there throughout his presentation. Nevertheless, the talk pretty much opened up our mindset to changes. Like what Kee Hian said, "business-as-usual" is no longer fitting in this era of change.

The talk was thought-provoking. We certainly need more thinking people to put their thoughts into actions. In certain social aspects, we are staying close to some Third World nations in Africa. We really can't afford to idle anymore.

At the convention, the time frame given did not allow Kee Hian to accommodate the full length of his proceedings in the presentation. Certain sections were skipped to keep the talk within the specified time. With Kee Hian's generosity and kind consent, I am going to share them in my blog.

The picture shows Tan Kee Hian at a teh tarik session at Premier Hotel. Picture: Liong

The 9Th Methodist Convention - The Future Of Sarawak From A Christian Perspective - Part 16

In his summing -up, Kee Hian threw at the church leaders and members five key issues and questions for them to devote serious thinking to their role in relation to the future of Sarawak.

1. What are the "truths" on the economic and social developments of Sarawak?

2. Do we accept the values implied in the leadership/governance, political system and public policy management of the State? If not, what should we do?

3. The future outlook is clouded with uncertainties for the masses. Is "business-as-usual" a realistic option for the State?

4. What role could and should the Church and Christians take in the transformation of the State?

5. What specific actions and initiatives could the Church embark on to address current and future social issues?

Brother Tan Kee Hian had smartly left behind a good thinking space for the church leaders and members to critically think about the economic and social issues affecting the future of Sarawak.

The 9Th Methodist Convention - The Future Of sarawak From A Christian Perspective - Part 15

On the role of Christians generally in transforming the nation, Brother Kee Hian provoked the thinking of the church members by posing to them questions of relevance.

Tan Kee Hian noted that Sarawak's churches have above average presence (in terms of church members) from the so-called 'ruling class" - people in positions of power, with influence and wealth. This elite group includes political leaders, government, business owners and leaders, prominent professionals, community leaders, and the rich and famous.

Tan Kee Hian further reckoned that it is crucial for the church members to think critically on the following pertinent questions:

1. How can the church work through these 'influential" members, especially on social development issues?

2. How can the church take clear positions on values of leadership, governance and social development, that is
consistent with its doctrine?

It is a challenging mental exercise to work out strategies in facing up to this era of change!

The 9Th Methodist Convention - The Future Of sarawak From A Christian Perspective - Part 14

In looking at the future of Sarawak critically with his expertise in this field, Tan Kee Hian enlightened the audience with his thought-provoking views. On top of that, he was more than generous to shed light on the top development need of Sarawak.

Citing the leadership, governance and values as the present top priority, Kee Hian said," Being legal and in compliance (with "system" and the rules) is just not enough."

Be critical-minded and develop a balanced thinking. " Let's look at the excesses," Brother Kee Hian told a congregation of 1,300 Methodist church members.

Also, not to be overlooked is whether trust in leadership and governance justified? Are there no absolute truths? Kee Hian posed these fundamental questions to the church members to critically look at our leaders.

Our values have to be just as important. "There has to be a good sense of fairness and equity. We must respect human and traditional rights. Respect also the Rule of Law wholeheartedly. Everybody must be held accountable for actions and outcomes. Leaders must be seen to be proper and just by the people," Kee Hian put the challenge to the floor.

The 9Th Methodist Convention - The Future Of sarawak From A Christian Perspective - Part 13

What does future hold for the people of Sarawak? This burning question keeps Sarawakians in suspense, wondering what is lying in front of this Eastern State.

Brother Kee Hian, with his extensive global exposure, is sharp in looking at issues facing us.

"The natural resources are going to continue to drive Sarawak's overall economic growth,"Kee hian said.

But, he cautioned, the continued growth at the historical pace is far from assured.

In the opinion of Tan Kee Hian, the masses (Sarawakians) are likely to remain short-changed, meaning what they are in receipt falls short of what they deserve. The so-called short-changing arises as a result of the continuing absence of fundamental changes in key areas like governance, values, drawing a clear line on the truths, rights and wrongs, and these include: 1. Sub-optimal economic outcome; 2. Inadequate local employment opportunities; 3. Inadequate wealth distribution; 4. Lagging infrastructure and social developments, and 5. Damage to environment.

Sarawakians are trapped in the so-called comfort zone. The mindset of "business-as-usual" persists and it is deep-rooted. This "biasa lah" attitude is very comfortable for the "ruling" class (people in positions of power, influence and wealth).

Touching on the transformation of the present modus operandi, Brother Kee Hian said it will happen only if : 1. There is recognition of need for change by key stakeholders; 2. We step up empowerment of drivers of change, and 3. There are new transformation champions/agents stepping forward.

The picture shows a bridge cross Lobaan River under construction. A tense public outcry erupted over the height of the bridge which, in the opinion of Sibuians, is like a blockage in a passageway. Photo: Steve Ling