But another thought that probably factors in for the religious minds of the country is that, through Malala, it is being portrayed as if Islam forbids girls’ education and by extension, Islam is being defamed.
I do hope that this impression regarding Malala’s fame is wrong but she herself, I believe, should also do something to get rid of this false impression. The most famous teenager in the world can do a lot to make sure a soft image of both, Pakistan and Islam, flourishes. She should elaborate that the mindset which caused the attack on her does not represent a majority of Pakistanis or the teachings of Islam. We all know that there are certain areas of Pakistan where girls are not allowed access to education, whereas in other areas, girls are competing with their male counterparts in every field of life.
After Malala’s meeting with US President Barack Obama on drone attacks, I found a reason to strongly hope that she would also address these issues. Due to Soviet aggression in Afghanistan and the pro-American war that followed it, Pakistan has faced rising levels of militancy in recent decades and this has tarnished its image. People the world over think that all Pakistanis are terrorists. Malala can also tell the world that not every Pakistani is a terrorist.
The 16-year-old activist should elaborate for the world, that she is a Muslim and her religion is a peace-loving one, which accords women their rights. When she comes on-screen and talks about the Taliban, most people form the wrong impression about our religion and its followers. She should tell the world that Islam is not like that.
Pakistanis should appreciate Malala’s achievements and should use her reach in a way that benefits the country. I think she should raise her voice regarding these issues, especially if she wants to be a popular Pakistani politician.
Published in The Express Tribune, October 24th, 2013.
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Appreciate the viewpoint of my friend Naeem (author) that emphasize on the importance of both sides of the picture.
No. we should stop treating a 16 year old activist as a public representative, she can do or say as she pleases – take it or leave it. this article just goes to show how we as a nation have become entirely self-conscious. as if the UN will impose sanctions on the govt of Pakistan after hearing her her speech.
Author, The image of Islam will be seen through the actions ( and inaction too) of its adherents. Its adherents displays most intolerant behaviour through out the globe( including Pakistan) trying to impose their version of ideology on others perceiving Islam as the superior over others. inaction on the parts of majority of adherents to oppose/ condemn the wrong doing activities like destroying the Girls schools / Killing the innocent non believer( non Muslim) citing justification from the religious texts/ interpretation. The image of Islam has been built by its followers only. The word Islamophobia came into being due to this image.
Malala alone can not change this image. This requires a collective efforts by its majority followers.