A Great Role Model

Many journalists have written extensively about the ever-growing threat of Islamic fundamentalism. While explaining the impact that radical clerics and jihadists have had on impressionable Muslim youth, they have pointed to the lack of progressive role models for these youngsters. Their point is that not too many top scientists, engineers, doctors, and scholars have arisen from the Muslim world, especially in the developing and underdeveloped countries. They argue that this is partly why the youth in these countries do not have an adequate sense of being progressive and innovative.

Well, just today, a new role model emerged. Malaysia's Sheikh Muszafar Shukor became the first Muslim in space during the holy m0nth of Ramadan. Mr. Shukor, in his interview to the BBC, has said that he will observe all the rules of Ramadan fasting and praying while in space. He said that he intends to show that it is possible to be a devout Muslim, while at the same time being progressive. Well said Mr. Shukor and Eid Mubarak to you!