When someone pirates a piece of software, often he will get an exact copy of the original software (sometimes lacking features eg multiplayer or anti piracy "bugs").  For us gamers who buy original software, we get a feelgood feeling, software that (should) works and some additional value added features.  But otherwise it's practically the same thing.  A lot of people have a problem getting beyond that. 

Sure it's technically illegal and morally wrong - that doesn't change the fact that the illegality is badly enforced and people don't have a moral problem in doing so (and by morality i mean the fact that a pirated videogame vendor does not illicit the same emotional and moral response as say a brothel.)

Does this forum have a responsibility as a community?  Yeah, i would say it does but i don't think that should involve judging people who have not joined the ranks of the "ori" gaming community.  As a forum mod, apart from enforcing the forum rules, you should encourage people to support the people that created these games - as you mention. 

It's about education not persecution.

Putting the moral culpability entirely on the buyer is wrong because there are too many other factors that contribute to the rampant piracy in our country.

I have to respectfully disagree. I think the buyers are just as responsible for it as the organisations that print DVD's. Your idea about education holds merit, but not in this forum. How many of those that use these forums are really not educated about original software? While I can't say for sure, I think a large portion of people are aware of their options(of purchasing software).

Persecution is just as effective. Take a look at Singapore

Education is helpful if society is not aware of IP and original software, which again you might be right about Malaysians in general, but I suspect is not the case with this forums visitors(mostly).

Hey I'm doing my part. Most threads that ask where to get pirated version, I always show them the way to Steam and Malaysian game retailers. And I think this community as a whole has done it's part in promoting gaming. For that everyone here has to be proud for they are way more effective than the government.

PS : Sure some people may go overboard with things, just PM me when they do