KUALA LUMPUR – Former US President Jimmy Carter, who died on December 29 at the age of 100, was known for his unwavering commitment to peace, justice, and humanity.
Carter leaves behind a legacy that transcends politics. His efforts as the 39th president of the United States, his leadership of the Carter Centre, and his hands-on work with Habitat for Humanity have inspired generations.
For one Malaysian, journalist M. Krishnamoorthy, Carter’s influence extended to an extraordinary moment in 1982, when Krishnamoorthy – back then an international student leader at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville – had the opportunity to meet the Nobel prize winner.
The Malaysian, who faced various challenges in setting up the meeting, recounted this encounter as life-changing.
“Meeting president Carter taught me the power of humility, compassion, and purpose in leadership,” he said.
Carter’s firm handshake, warm words, and genuine curiosity about Krishnamoorthy’s Malaysian roots made a lasting impression. This meeting not only motivated him but also laid the foundation for his own contributions as a journalist and human rights advocate in Malaysia.
During their meeting, which at the time was unprecedented, Carter spoke about the importance of peace and empathy in leadership, values that deeply resonated with Krishnamoorthy.
“Carter’s advice to lead with understanding and compassion has been my guiding principle,” he said. Carter’s ability to connect personally, even as a global statesman, was a hallmark of his approach to leadership.
Carter’s vision extended beyond immediate governance. He was an early advocate for climate action, recognising its importance long before it became a mainstream concern.
Scientists in the 1970s had begun raising the alarm about global warming, and Carter heeded those warnings, establishing renewable energy initiatives and environmental policies. Though his climate efforts were overshadowed by political shifts in subsequent administrations, his foresight remains relevant today.
As Krishnamoorthy reflects on that pivotal moment, he credits Carter’s encouragement for instilling in him the confidence to pursue meaningful change.
“That meeting was a turning point,” he said.
“It reminded me to seize opportunities and lead with selflessness, just as Carter did. His legacy is a call to all of us to act with purpose and integrity.”
Krishnamoorthy’s book Change My Thoughts: Making the Impossible Possible, soon to be published, traces the challenges he faced in organising the historic meeting with President Carter at the World Fair in 1982.
Carter’s enduring contributions, from brokering peace agreements to championing civil rights and addressing global health challenges through the Carter Centre, remain benchmarks of principled leadership.
For Krishnamoorthy and countless others who had the privilege of meeting him, Carter’s influence was personal and profound, inspiring them to lead lives dedicated to service and humanity.
As the world bids farewell to a towering figure of compassion and vision, it is clear that Carter’s life was not just one of service but also one of inspiring others to serve. – January 1, 2025