International Think Big Summit 2024: Fixing Malaysia’s rojak divisions

Malaysia, our rojak is starting to separate. Whether it’s racial tensions, political drama, or just the never-ending war of keyboard warriors on Twitter, it feels like everyone’s picking sides, and no one’s meeting in the middle. But hey, maybe there’s hope—enter the International Think Big Summit (ITBS) 2024, a bold event that’s all about tackling polarization head-on and getting Malaysians to, well, chill and listen.

Here’s the tea: the Malaysian Philosophy Society is hosting Malaysia’s biggest-ever summit on polarization. With the theme “Crossroads: Where Diverging Minds Converge in Rojak Malaysia”, the summit happens on December 15th, 2024, at HELP University in Subang Bestari. And trust us, this ain’t some boring atas conference.

The conference is all about finding the middle ground

Let’s face it: polarization isn’t just an online thing. It’s in Parliament, in our mamak chats, even in our family WhatsApp groups. From Mahathir’s latest Parliament drama to Najib’s half-hearted 1MDB apology, it’s clear Malaysia’s got some serious cracks. Add global issues like Trump’s re-election as US President (how?!), and you’ve got a recipe for division both at home and abroad.

ITBS 2024 wants to tackle this head-on by bringing together Malaysia’s brightest minds, politicians, academics, and you, the rakyat. The goal? To find middle ground and figure out how to fix this mess before it’s too late.

It’s more than just conversations and debates

Okay, this isn’t just some atas event where everyone sips coffee, nods, and leaves. This summit is designed to make you squirm a little (in a good way) and challenge your views. Here’s what’s happening:

The Summit will feature a unique networking experience named as “CrossPaths Networking,” where participants are given a networking card designed to get them to strike conversations with those who share distinct or opposing viewpoints, fostering a true Middle Ground experience.

Additionally, there will also be a real-life Human Spectrogram interactive seating where participants get to visualize where they stand on a wide range of polarized issues being discussed, and a CrossingCanvasses philosophical art exhibit inviting participants to reflect on art and social media content across ages.

There are various thought leaders that are joining the summit such as:

• Shahril Hamdan, politician and co-host of the “Keluar Sekejap” podcast.
• Dr. Muhammed Abdul Khalid, former economic advisor to Mahathir Mohamad.
• Syed Farid Al-Attas, sociologist and professor at NUS.
• Mohamad Sobri Bin Mat Daud, Deputy Secretary General, Ministry of Unity.
• Hajah Mahuran Saro Dato’ Haji Sariki, Senior VP of TalentCorp.
• Nina Adlan Disney: Managing Director at LeapEd Services, Member of the Global “HP Futures Council on Tomorrow’s Schools”

Here’s why you should join the International Think Big Summit

It’s FREE (thanks, TalentCorp!), so you really have no excuse. And unlike your typical conference, this one promises real impact. Post-summit, the Malaysian Philosophy Society and MCCHR will draft a policy paper proposing solutions for Malaysia’s integration challenges—from education to media to governance.

Plus, whether you’re a keyboard warrior, a silent lurker, or just someone who’s sick of Facebook fights, this summit is your chance to escape your echo chamber and see things from a new perspective.

Malaysia’s rojak identity is what makes us special, but it’s also what makes unity tough. The International Think Big Summit 2024 isn’t just about talking; it’s about action. It’s about creating a Malaysia where our differences don’t divide us but instead make us stronger.

So, what are you waiting for? Mark your calendars for December 15th, and get ready to think big at HELP University in Subang Bestari!! For more info and to register, visit their website.