An ethical decision typically involves choosing between two options: one we know to be right and another we know to be wrong. A defining moment, however, challenges us in a deeper way by asking us to choose between two or more ideals in which we deeply believe – i.e. both are RIGHT! How then should we choose the “optimum” right decision?
On a fateful day of 23rd September 1985, 15 armed foreign pirates landed on the coast of Lahad Datu, Sabah, Malaysia and stormed in the town. The pirates shot at random killing at least 21 people and injuring 11 others. The pirates tried to rob a bank by blowing up the vault, but the explosives were ineffective. Out of frustration, they kidnapped 2 staff of a local bank before leaving Lahad Datu in their speed boats.
Two hours later, the Branch Manager of the bank in Lahad Datu receives a call from the pirates demanding USD 1 million to secure the release of both staff. The Board of the Bank had been notified and the board appointed the Senior Regional Director of the Bank at Kota Kinabalu, Mr Sam to negotiate with the terrorist. The Board informally whispered to Mr Sam that he should not negotiate beyond RM 2 million to avoid any possible sanctions from the government for abetting kidnapping and terrorism. As the events of the story unfolded onscreen, put yourself in the shoes of Sam and how would you resolve defining moments.