Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong meets Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar. She discussed the Canadian allegations with while he was in the Australian capital, Canberra. – Photo: Jenny Wong Facebook
By Rod McGuirk | The Independent | Australia |
Australia’s foreign minister said Tuesday she raised allegations with her Indian counterpart that India has targeted Sikh activists in Canada.
Foreign Minister Penny Wong said she discussed the Canadian allegations with Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar while he was in the Australian capital, Canberra.
India has denied Canada’s allegation that Indian Home Minister Amit Shah ordered the targeting of Sikh activists inside Canada.
Wong said her message to the Sikh community was that people have a right to be safe and respected in Australia, regardless of who they are.
“We’ve made clear our concerns about the allegations under investigation. We’ve said that we respect Canada’s judicial process,” Wong said at a news conference with Jaishankar.
“We convey our views to India as you would expect us to do and we have a principled position in relation to matters such as the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary and also, frankly, the sovereignty of all countries,” she added.
Jaishankar said Canada has put Indian diplomats under surveillance, which was “unacceptable.”
“Canada has developed a pattern of making allegations without providing specifics,” he said.
Australia has close intelligence-sharing ties with Canada as members of the Five Eyes alliance that also includes the United States, Britain and New Zealand.
Over the weekend, India officially protested Canada’s allegation of Sikh activists being targeted there as “absurd and baseless.”
ASIA SAMACHAR is an online newspaper for Sikhs / Punjabis in Southeast Asia and beyond. You can leave your comments at our website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We will delete comments we deem offensive or potentially libelous. You can reach us via WhatsApp +6017-335-1399 or email: asia.samachar@gmail.com. For obituary announcements, click here
ASIA SAMACHAR is an online newspaper for Sikhs / Punjabis in Southeast Asia and beyond. You can leave your comments at our website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We will delete comments we deem offensive or potentially libelous. You can reach us via WhatsApp +6017-335-1399 or email: asia.samachar@gmail.com. For obituary announcements, click here
ASIA SAMACHAR is an online newspaper for Sikhs / Punjabis in Southeast Asia and beyond. You can leave your comments at our website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We will delete comments we deem offensive or potentially libelous. You can reach us via WhatsApp +6017-335-1399 or email: asia.samachar@gmail.com. For obituary announcements, click here
Sharanjit Singh has been promoted to Deputy Group Editor of the New Straits Times, an English newspaper under the Media Prima stable. He was previously its Executive Editor.
Sharanjit, who hails from Alor Star, Kedah, began his journalism journey in 1996 when he enrolled in the NST training scheme by chance, resulting in a career spanning more than two-and-a-half decades with stints as the bureau chief in Kedah, Perlis, Melaka and Penang and a string of awards including the highly coveted MPI best investigative journalist award.
A newsman to the core, Sharanjit has covered global events ranging from the UN General Assembly to the uprising in Thailand, insurgency in Pattani and Tsunami in Aceh.
Media Prima announced the move along with appointment of Jasbant Singh as the Group Managing Editor for news and Farrah Naz Abd Karim as the Deputy Group Managing Editor of news.
ASIA SAMACHAR is an online newspaper for Sikhs / Punjabis in Southeast Asia and beyond. You can leave your comments at our website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We will delete comments we deem offensive or potentially libelous. You can reach us via WhatsApp +6017-335-1399 or email: asia.samachar@gmail.com. For obituary announcements, click here
Gurdwara Sahib Klang will be celebranting the 555th Parkash Dihara of Guru Nanak with a Nagar Kirtan on Saturday (16 Nov 2024) at 6.30pm.
The gurdwara is calling for sewadars/volunteers to assist in organising the programme.
“The GSK committee also welcomes those who would like to contribute flowers or any form of monetary donations can directly liaise with GSK office,” it said in a message sent to Asia Samachar.
The gurdwara also welcomes donations. See details below.
DETAILS FOR DONATIONS
Account Name: THE COMMITTEE OF MANAGEMENT OF GURDWARA SAHIB KLANG Bank: CIMB Account No: 86 0035 3231 (Send a WhatsApp with the pay in slip to the GSK handphone 016-2165693 for an official receipt, even for those who want to remain anonymous)
For inquires, contact Sdr. Rajinder Singh @ Raj at 012-6086606
ASIA SAMACHAR is an online newspaper for Sikhs / Punjabis in Southeast Asia and beyond. You can leave your comments at our website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We will delete comments we deem offensive or potentially libelous. You can reach us via WhatsApp +6017-335-1399 or email: asia.samachar@gmail.com. For obituary announcements, click here
ASIA SAMACHAR is an online newspaper for Sikhs / Punjabis in Southeast Asia and beyond. You can leave your comments at our website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We will delete comments we deem offensive or potentially libelous. You can reach us via WhatsApp +6017-335-1399 or email: asia.samachar@gmail.com. For obituary announcements, click here
Jasbant Singh has been tapped for the top editorial role at Media Prima Berhad, Malaysia’s largest integrated media company which runs free-to-air television TV3 and also English daily newspaper New Straits Times.
The veteran journalist has been appointed as the Group Managing Editor for news, effective November 1.
The appointment comes following the retirement of Ahmad Zaini Kamaruzzaman as the New Straits Times Press Berhad (NSTP) Group Managing Editor. Farrah Naz Abd Karim was made Deputy Group Managing Editor of news.
Jasbant and Farrah Naz’s appointments also signal the integration of Media Prima Television Networks (MPTN) and NSTP under the Media Prima News and Current Affairs Division, reported NST.
Jasbant has over 30 years of experience in print, television, and online journalism, having served in both local and international media organisations.
He began his career at Bernama, later joining TV3 as a reporter, and eventually rising to become the station’s Deputy News and Current Affairs Manager.
Jasbant also had stints with the Associated Press and Al Jazeera, where he covered major local and international stories, including the terror threat in Southeast Asia after the 9/11 attacks.
He also served as Free Malaysia Today’s (FMT) Managing Editor for three years.
For the past two years, Jasbant has been leading MPTN’s news operations, which cover TV3, Channel 9, Channel 8, and DidikTV.
ASIA SAMACHAR is an online newspaper for Sikhs / Punjabis in Southeast Asia and beyond. You can leave your comments at our website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We will delete comments we deem offensive or potentially libelous. You can reach us via WhatsApp +6017-335-1399 or email: asia.samachar@gmail.com. For obituary announcements, click here
17 Nov 2024 (Sunday), 6pm to 8pm Sewa: 2pm onwards Wadda Gurdwara Sahib Kampung Pandan, Kuala Lumpur
Maa…maaji, your love, laughter and warmth brought light to our lives. Though you’re gone, your spirit lives on in every memory. We’ll cherish you in our hearts, always and forever.
Link to posting at Facebook and Instagram; Updated Facebook and Instagram
| Entry: 5 Nov 2024; Updated: 13 Nov 2024 | Source: Family
ASIA SAMACHAR is an online newspaper for Sikhs / Punjabis in Southeast Asia and beyond. You can leave your comments at our website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We will delete comments we deem offensive or potentially libelous. You can reach us via WhatsApp +6017-335-1399 or email: asia.samachar@gmail.com. For obituary announcements, click here
Hukam, the divine order, a central concept to Sikh teachings, stresses ethical responsibility and interconnectedness. Aligning AI with divine guidance can uplift human dignity and foster communal well-being. By embedding Sikh principles like Seva (selfless service), Sangat (community), and Vand Chakna (sharing), AI can empower society and ensure equitable benefits. This article examines the integration of divine, human, and artificial intelligence (AI) through Sikh philosophy. It also addresses potential issues like bias, privacy, and job loss, reassuring us that Sikh philosophy can guide us in addressing these issues, advocating mindfulness in AI development for a more just and compassionate future.
Introduction
The rapidly evolving landscape of technology is reshaping our world in unprecedented ways, prompting many discussions about the implications and responsibilities of advancements such as artificial intelligence (AI) [1-4]. As we navigate this complex terrain, it is essential to stress the need for ethical responsibility in AI development and draw upon the wisdom and teachings of various philosophical and spiritual traditions, including Sikhism. Sikh philosophy [5-8], with its profound insights, offers a vision for a positive future that emphasizes this responsibility, community well-being, and spiritual growth. It provides a roadmap for the harmonious integration of divine, human, and artificial intelligence, inspiring us to strive for a future where AI serves the greater good.
The Divine Dimension: Hukam and Spiritual Guidance
At the core of Sikh belief is Hukam, the divine order or command that governs the universe [9]. Sikhs believe that all aspects of life are interconnected through this divine will [10]. In a world increasingly driven by technology, understanding and aligning with Hukam can guide our actions and decisions regarding AI development and implementation.
In Sikhism, the divine is not an abstract concept but an active presence in the world. This perspective emphasizes the importance of seeking divine guidance in our endeavours. When we engage with AI, we must ask ourselves: How does this technology serve the greater good? Does it align with the principles of compassion, justice, and equality that are central to Sikh teachings? By framing our technological pursuits within the context of divine will, we can cultivate a future where AI enhances human dignity rather than diminishes it.
Human Intelligence: The Role of Ethics and Values
While AI has the potential to revolutionize various sectors—from healthcare to education—its success hinges on the ethical framework established by human intelligence. Sikhs are encouraged to engage in Seva (selfless service) and Sangat(community) [6-7]. These principles highlight the importance of collective responsibility and ethical conduct in shaping technology.
Human intelligence must steer AI development towards serving humanity. This involves fostering a culture of inclusivity, accountability, and transparency [1-2]. When engineers, developers, and policymakers prioritize the well-being of individuals and communities, they create technologies that promote equity and justice.
Sikh teachings encourage individuals to reflect on their actions and impact on others. This introspection is crucial in AI contexts, where decisions can have far-reaching consequences. By integrating the Sikh values of humility, empathy, and responsibility into the tech landscape, we can ensure that AI is a tool for positive transformation rather than a source of division or exploitation [8].
AI: A Tool for Empowerment
AI can be a powerful tool for amplifying human capabilities and addressing societal challenges. However, it is essential to recognize that AI is not inherently good or bad; its ethical implications depend on its design and usage. Sikhism emphasizes the significance of Vand Chakna, the principle of sharing and distribution [7]. This principle can be applied to the development and deployment of AI technologies.
AI can enhance various sectors, including healthcare, education, and environmental sustainability. For instance, AI-powered diagnostics can improve access to healthcare in underserved communities, while intelligent systems can optimize resource allocation for sustainable practices [3, 11]. However, these benefits must be distributed equitably.
Sikh teachings underscore the importance of communal well-being. As AI technologies evolve, it is vital to ensure that their benefits are shared among all members of society, particularly marginalized groups. This commitment to equity aligns with the Sikh ethos of justice and fairness, promoting a future where technology empowers rather than disenfranchises.
Bridging Divine, Human, and AI
Integrating divine, human, and artificial intelligence can create a holistic approach to addressing global challenges. Sikhs believe in the interconnectedness of all beings [10], and this perspective can guide the collaboration between these three dimensions.
Collaborative Frameworks: Engaging religious leaders, technologists, ethicists, and communities in discussions about AI can foster collaborative frameworks that promote responsible development. Sikh institutions can be pivotal in facilitating dialogue and education about ethical AI practices.
Education and Awareness: It is essential to educate individuals about the implications of AI and its alignment with Sikh values. Initiatives can be implemented within the Sikh community to raise awareness about technology’s ethical dimensions, emphasizing the responsibility to leverage AI for the greater good.
Innovative Solutions: Sikhism encourages creative problem-solving and innovation. By harnessing communities’ collective wisdom and combining it with technological advancements, we can develop solutions that address pressing issues such as poverty, health disparities, and climate change.
Mindfulness and Reflection: In Sikh tradition, reflection and mindfulness are key components of personal growth. This mindset can also be applied to AI, urging technologists to pause and consider the ethical implications of their innovations. Mindful engagement with technology can lead to more thoughtful, inclusive, and responsible outcomes.
Addressing Challenges and Concerns
As we envision a future where divine, human, and artificial intelligence coexist harmoniously, addressing the challenges and concerns associated with AI is essential [11=12].
Bias and Discrimination: AI systems are often prone to biases in the data used to train them. This can lead to discriminatory outcomes that perpetuate existing inequalities. Sikh principles of justice and equality call for vigilance against bias in AI development.
Privacy and Surveillance: The rise of AI raises concerns about privacy and surveillance. Sikhs advocate for the sanctity of individual dignity and autonomy, emphasizing the need for transparent practices that protect personal information and ensure consent in data usage.
Job Displacement: While AI can enhance productivity, it may also displace jobs, particularly in sectors vulnerable to automation. Sikh teachings about community and support encourage the development of safety nets and retraining programs to support those affected by technological changes.
Environmental Sustainability: AI technologies can contribute to environmental degradation if not managed responsibly. The Sikh commitment to stewardship of the Earth calls for sustainable practices in developing and applying AI technologies.
Conclusion: A Vision for a Positive Future
In a world increasingly shaped by AI, combining divine, human, and AI offers a pathway toward a more just and compassionate future. By grounding our technological pursuits in the wisdom of Sikh teachings, we can ensure that AI serves as a force for good, enhancing human dignity and fostering collective well-being.
This vision requires ongoing dialogue, collaboration, and a commitment to ethical principles. As we navigate the complexities of the digital age, we must embrace the teachings of Hukam, engage in selfless service, and prioritize the welfare of all beings. In doing so, we can create a future where divine, human, and artificial intelligence coexist harmoniously, illuminating the path toward a more equitable and compassionate world.
As we move forward, let us remember that technology is not an end but a means to elevate the human experience. By embodying the values of Sikhism in our technological endeavours, we can cultivate a future that resonates with hope, justice, and love—ultimately leading us closer to the divine vision of a harmonious world.
References
Thacker, Jason. (2020, March) Thacker. The Age of AI: Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Humanity. Zondervan.
Lennox, John C. (2020, June), Lennox. 2084: Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Humanity. Zondervan.
Floridi, Luciano. (2023, Sept.) The Ethics of Artificial Intelligence: Principles, Challenges, and Opportunities. Oxford University Press.
Dubber, M. Pasquale F., Das. S. (2021, May). Oxford Handbook of Ethics of AI. Oxford University Press. ISBN-13 978-0197601440
Sri Guru Granth Sahib (SGGS), (1983). (Reprint), S.G.P.C., Amritsar, p 1-1430.
Singh, D. P. (2014, July-Aug.). Relevance of Sri Guru Granth Sahib in 21st Century, The Sikh Bulletin, USA. 17 (7& 8). 18-22.
Singh, Devinder Pal. (2019). Universal Relevance of Guru Nanak’s Teachings,The Sikh Review, Kolkatta, WB, India. Part -I: 67(11). 15-21; (Part -II): 67 (12). 19-30.
Singh, Devinder Pal. (2024, May 31). AI and Sikhism: Ethical Stewardship and Moral Challenges in the Digital Age. SikhNet.com. USA.
https://www.sikhnet.com/news/ai-and-sikhism%C2%A0
Singh, Devinder Pal. (2023). Truthful Living: A Perspective from Sikhism. Horizon J. Hum. Soc. Sci. Res. Malaysia, 5 (2), 132–139.
Singh, Devinder Pal Singh. (2009, Nov.) Interdependence of Things: A Gurbani Perspective, The Sikh Review, Kolkata. WB. India. 57(11). 11-14.
Pinto. I. (2022). The Contemporary Possibilities and Challenges of Artificial Intelligence: A Theological Appraisal. Indian Journal of Family Studies. 69-80.
Singh, Devinder Pal. (2023). Sikhism and Artificial Intelligence – The Mutual Relevance, Understanding Sikhism: The Research Journal. 25 (1). 153-157.
Dr. D. P. Singh, M.Sc., Ph.D. is Director, Center for Understanding Sikhism, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada. He is a physicist by training, a teacher by profession and a writer by choice. He specializes in writing on Science, Religion and Environmental topics. Currently, he is working as Director, CanBridge Learning & Educational Consultant to various educational institutions in Canada. Email: drdpsn@gmail.com
ASIA SAMACHAR is an online newspaper for Sikhs / Punjabis in Southeast Asia and beyond. You can leave your comments at our website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We will delete comments we deem offensive or potentially libelous. You can reach us via WhatsApp +6017-335-1399 or email: asia.samachar@gmail.com. For obituary announcements, click here
Pola Singh on his 75th birthday, flanked by his wife Karina and children Cheryl and Dhillon
By Pola Singh | Malaysia |
When I celebrated my 75th birthday this July, the most common remark I received was, “You don’t look your age!” It’s a compliment I hear often, and I must say, it applies not only to me but to my eight siblings and even my children. Our family—rooted in a unique blend of Sikh-Chinese parentage—seems to have unlocked the secret to ageing gracefully. But could our youthful appearance really be traced back to our mixed heritage?
My father, a towering Sikh from Punjab, and my mother, a disciplined and determined woman from China, brought together two distinct cultures that shaped who we are today. We inherited our father’s height and strength, along with our mother’s sharp mind, hard work, and resilience. This powerful combination has undoubtedly contributed to our well-being. But beyond our genes, there’s a deeper story here—one grounded in values, discipline, and the Sikh principles of balanced living.
Sikh Values and Chinese Discipline: A Lethal Combination?
It’s often said that children of mixed parentage inherit the best traits of both worlds. In my family’s case, we’ve certainly been blessed with that. Physically, we take after our father’s sturdy Sikh genes, but the discipline and determination of our Chinese mother have shaped our attitudes and approach to life. This mix, some say, is a “lethal combination”—one that seems to have slowed down the ageing process for us.
In some gurdwara, L-R: Harban (Pola’s brother), Pola, Cheryl, Dhillon and Pola’s niece Belwinder
My siblings, now in their 60s and 70s, still receive compliments on their youthful looks. My children, too—Cheryl Kaur, 46, and Dillon Singh, 44—regularly hear remarks about how young they appear. But what’s behind this? Is it just luck? Is it the magic of Sikh-Chinese blood? I like to think it’s a little of both—good genes combined with a life lived with intention, discipline, and a sense of purpose.
The Sikh Path to Healthy Living
At the core of Sikhism are values that emphasise balance in all aspects of life—physical, mental, and spiritual. We are taught to care for our bodies as temples, maintaining them with respect and discipline. This principle has been a guiding force in my life. I’ve always believed that living in moderation, taking care of one’s health, and managing stress are crucial to ageing well.
Physical activity plays a major role in my routine, and I believe it has helped me maintain both my health and my youthful appearance. For years, I’ve been an avid hiker, tackling the trails of Bukit Kiara twice a week. These hikes are more than just exercise—they’re a way to connect with nature, clear my mind, and embrace the Sikh value of mindfulness. Staying active is essential, not just for physical fitness but for mental clarity and emotional well-being.
The importance of balance doesn’t stop with exercise. In Sikhism, we are encouraged to live a life of self-discipline, which extends to how we eat, sleep, and manage our emotions. I follow a simple but effective rule: a balanced diet, intermittent fasting, and consistent sleep. This, I believe, has helped me maintain my energy and vitality.
Letting Go of Emotional Baggage
Healthy ageing isn’t just about physical habits; it’s also about managing the stresses of life. In Sikh culture, we are taught to let go of negative emotions like ego, anger, and jealousy. Holding onto these emotions only weighs us down, causing unnecessary stress that accelerates ageing.
The Tara siblings
I’ve learned that part of ageing gracefully is learning to forgive, forget, and let go. Emotional baggage—whether it’s pride, resentment, or grudges—can be a heavy burden. Letting go not only brings inner peace but also improves our mental and physical health. In fact, studies show that stress is one of the leading causes of premature ageing, so by managing it, we can better control how we age.
Family, Faith, and Healthy Ageing
In my family, the concept of community and connection has been a key part of our well-being. Sikhs place a strong emphasis on family and the value of Sangat, or fellowship. My siblings and I regularly come together for trips to places like Frasers Hill, Cameron Highlands or to our hometown Melaka and these moments of connection keep us grounded and fulfilled. There is a sense of joy and bonding in these gatherings, which I believe adds to the vitality we all seem to carry.
The Real Secret: A Life of Balance and Gratitude
So, what’s the secret to ageing well? I believe it’s a combination of genes, values, and choices. Our Sikh-Chinese heritage certainly provided us with a strong foundation, but it’s the Sikh principles of balance, discipline, and service that have kept us youthful in spirit and appearance. By feeling blessed and embracing these values while living a life of gratitude and contentment, we can all unlock the secret to healthy ageing.
Ageing gracefully is less about defying time – it’s about living well. It’s about adding life to your years, not just years to your life. I hope this article inspires you to invest in your health today. Remember, “health is wealth,” and it’s never too late to start making changes that will allow you to live a longer, healthier, and more fulfilling life.
Dr Pola Singh, who retired as Maritime Institute of Malaysia director-general in 2011, is also the author of ‘Uphill — The Journey of a Sikh-Chinese Kampung Boy’
ASIA SAMACHAR is an online newspaper for Sikhs / Punjabis in Southeast Asia and beyond. You can leave your comments at our website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We will delete comments we deem offensive or potentially libelous. You can reach us via WhatsApp +6017-335-1399 or email: asia.samachar@gmail.com. For obituary announcements, click here
