Reflections on China’s 76th National Day: Wisdom, Discipline, and Global Humanity

Reflections on China’s 76th National Day: Wisdom, Discipline, and Global Humanity

On 1 October 2025, China celebrates its 76th National Day, commemorating the founding of the People’s Republic of China in 1949 by Mao Zedong. Over the past seven decades, China has achieved remarkable progress across multiple sectors—economy, technology, sports, public safety, and social development.

China is not only a consistent champion in the Olympic arena but has also emerged as a dominant force in elite sports that few nations can rival. Notably, major cities such as Shenzhen and Hangzhou are ranked among the safest in the world after midnight, trailing only behind Singapore and Tajikistan.

However, physical and material achievements alone are not the ultimate measure of success. China’s excellence in mental (intellect), physical (body), emotional (heart), and spiritual (soul) dimensions reflects a balanced social functionality born from discipline and a consistent system.

Discipline and Wisdom in the Islamic Perspective

Islam emphasizes that success is not solely dependent on correct belief (‘aqidah), but also on disciplined and sincere implementation. Allah SWT says:

“O you who have believed, obey Allah and obey the Messenger and those in authority among you. And if you disagree over anything, refer it to Allah and the Messenger, if you should believe in Allah and the Last Day.”
— Surah An-Nisa, verse 59

This verse highlights the importance of discipline in obedience and conflict resolution. In Surah Al-Qasas, verse 77, Allah instructs us to strive for worldly success without neglecting the Hereafter:

“But seek, through that which Allah has given you, the home of the Hereafter; and do not forget your share of the world…”

Learning from Other Nations: The Story of Musa and Khidr

In Surah Al-Kahf (verses 60–82), Allah narrates the story of Prophet Musa who sought knowledge from Khidr, despite being a prophet with vast wisdom. This illustrates that learning from others—individuals or nations with strengths—is not a weakness, but a form of wisdom and humility.

“And how can you have patience for what you do not encompass in knowledge?”
— Surah Al-Kahf, verse 68

The Uyghur Crisis and Malaysia’s Role

The Uyghur issue in China remains a flashpoint in global geopolitics, often used as leverage in the cold war between the USA and China. In addressing humanitarian crises like this, Malaysia’s role as an ASEAN member championing the ZOFPAN principle (Zone of Peace, Freedom, and Neutrality) can serve as a model for effective diplomacy.

As China rises, it must also recognize that true greatness comes not only from material advancement but also from upholding the principles of justice and universal human dignity. Addressing the Uyghur question within the framework of justice, fairness, and the right to religious and cultural practice will further strengthen China’s global credibility as a nation committed to harmony and inclusivity.

Rather than resorting to criticism alone, we can adopt more strategic approaches such as:

Education: Raising awareness through knowledge.

Cooperation & Negotiation: Building constructive diplomatic ties.

Commitment & Facilitation: Providing platforms for support and dialogue.

Support & Agreement: Consistently backing peace and human rights efforts.

These approaches align with Islamic principles that call for reform (islah) and wisdom in advocacy:

“Invite to the way of your Lord with wisdom and good instruction, and argue with them in a way that is best.”
— Surah An-Nahl, verse 125

Recommended References

To strengthen this narrative, the following scholarly works are recommended:

Discipline in Islam by Dr. Yusuf Al-Qaradawi

Fiqh al-Da’wah by Prof. Dr. Abdul Karim Zaidan

Islamic Diplomacy Strategy by Dr. Mohd Sani Badron

Tafsir Al-Misbah by Prof. Dr. Quraish Shihab (especially Surah Al-Kahf and An-Nahl)

I spent five days in Guanzhong and Senchen recently (late September 2025), and I personally witnessed that China possesses all the elements necessary to emerge as a leading nation. Malaysia must learn from and emulate China’s strengths. China is preparing itself to become a great nation—not to instill fear or anxiety in others, but to invite all of humanity to share in global prosperity with sincerity and cooperation.

Happy National Day to all my brothers and sisters in China today.

Mohd Azmi Abdul Hamid
President, MAPIM

Kamari Kasan
Chief Secretariat, Uyghur Humanitarian Research MAPIM
Secretary-General, GEMA MULTIVERSITY MAPIM–IMAR
1 October 2025