That white house beside the beach…

The sea breeze was blowing, the waves lapping along the shores. But my eyes were more intent on finding a particular junction.

“Just make sure that you follow the coastal road and keep to it. You will come to a junction leading to Pantai Batu Rakit. Go along it, and just about 4 to 5 km. you will see the house - a white, 2 storey building, just beside the beach,” his voice sounding very kind, on the other side of the phone.

About a few months before that, he had dropped by my blog, leaving a few lines of comments. I hopped over to his and found it fascinating. My tears were streaming down my cheeks as I read the messages left by the children under his tutelage.

“I must find some time to visit this man and actually see how he has been doing all that he has been doing,” I said.

“If you say so, my dear,” said my other half, “just mark one of the days in the calendar. I badly need to take a break anyway,” his dreary eyes showing the weariness and tiresome bureaucracy that he has to put up with day by day at his office.

That was how we found ourselves on the east coast, spending the first night at KT. The next day we made our way a little to the north, towards Batu Rakit. Sure enough, as soon as our vehicle purred on, we could see the house; its façade very simple yet its ambience, ‘very English’.

“Come on right in, for it has started to rain,” said the real man, his actual personality exuding kindness all the more.

We were greeted by his wife, who took the trouble to lay the table for lunch. We talked as if we have known each other for years. The talking went on till teatime, which was Makcik’s special apple pie complete with custard sauce. So delicious!

Uncle Hassan and his wife Aunt Salma names that they want to be known – two gracious senior citizens who also insisted that we spent the night at their place. Such bliss…listening to the sound of the waves breaking onto the glistening sands…in one of the chalet like rooms which belong to one of his beloved sons.

There was so much that we learnt from these two kind souls; caring for others, doing the utmost to help the needy, giving hope and encouragement for the poor children whose fathers, grandfathers (and their forefathers) were fisherman, who believed that the only thing in life was the open sea. Clearly, these children needed some kind of input, to change their life and their future.

So many stories, so many touching moments, from someone who has been there and done that. For Uncle was selected to further his studies in the U.K. at a time when Malaysia has not been born. Who would have thought that a young boy from Arabic school could master the English Language within a short span of time? Also to learn Additional Mathematics all on his own. Who would have heard of Add Maths during that era? But Uncle did it all with his strong will and determination.

A sudden twist of fate. That was it. A chance that he thought he would miss. Then, one of the chosen candidates had to decline the offer of a place of study because of some reasons, he was taken in to replace the vacancy. To be away from home, to a faraway land, a foreign one that is. No sophisticated form of communications as we are privileged to have as of now. From being on his own at Loughborough Institute of Technology (as it was known then, now called Loughborough University), working very hard for his Mechanical Engineering degree under the sponsorship of an international oil and gas company, amidst the loneliness of the late 1950's. When Malaya obtained its so called independence, he was right there in London, writing feverishly in his diary, now all yellowed and tattered but still intact….

That night, we went to the house across the road (Al Manar – Arabic for ‘The Beacon’) that he has specially built for the underprivileged children as their sanctuary. A place that they may find extra care and coaching, guide and motivation to do better and excel. For it is there (Al Manar) that many of these unfortunate children who have at long last been exposed to techniques of teaching that made them spur on to improve their lives. His place was NOT a tuition centre – more so like a kind of learning centre. The children spend their nights here, as a getaway from their impoverished homes (ill equipped, unfavourable conditions and unconducive for study). Reading his blog, one may find testimonies from these children, so grateful to the efforts of these two caring souls, the unsung heroes of a beach house off the coast of a fishing village in Kuala Terengganu.

Uncle Hassan has strengthened my conviction in something which I believed in all along. Life is not all about accumulating wealth or providing comfort for you and your loved ones. It includes thinking about others especially the unfortunate ones and how to best to help them.

As a sequel to his “7 Habits of Highly Effective People”, Stephen Covey published “The 8th Habit: From Effectiveness to Greatness” which essentially urges: "Find your voice and inspire others to find theirs..." Uncle Hassan has exemplified this…he has inspired me…

“Whosoever doeth right, whether male or female, and is a believer, him verily we shall quicken with good life, and We shall pay them a recompense in proportion to the best of what they used to do.” ~Al Quran: Chapter An Nahl: Verse 97.

And he is a living proof of:

“You make a living by earning,
You make a life by giving…”

Narrated 'Abdullah bin Umar: Allah's Apostle said, "A Muslim is a brother of another Muslim, so he should not oppress him, nor should he hand him over to an oppressor. Whoever fulfilled the needs of his brother, Allah will fulfill his needs; whoever brought his (Muslim) brother out of a discomfort, Allah will bring him out of the discomforts of the Day of Resurrection, and whoever screened a Muslim, Allah will screen him on the Day of Resurrection. " Al Bukhari

Muharram greeting...

A new year for Muslims again..

Blessed Muharram greetings 1431 to all. May the new year furnish you with deeper faith, increase commitment for amal ibadah (good deeds) and taqwa (steadfastness) towards Allah..

May Allah continue to bless you and your family in all your efforts and perseverence in the right paths towards Allah...Amin...

PS. Picture was taken from Rexsy here..

Reminiscing Terengganu…

“There it is!” said I, pointing my fingers to a prominent structure, jutting out from the green avenue of firs and casuarinas along its sides. Dusk has fallen. The waves were beating on the shores, the glimmering sands hardly seen any more in the deteriorating light.

It was just the two of us this time. My other half and I. We were there once before. More than 20 years ago. Only at that time, we were there as a family. I still keep the photos and would glance through it every now and then. Just to reminisce…..

Back then, our daughter was about 7 years of age. Beside her, was her little brother, and he was nearly 2. I wanted to take a photo of the two of them on the beach, in the breeze, under the shadows of the casuarinas. Our daughter was ready to pose. As usual, our little boy could not stay still for more than a minute. Something in the sand intrigued him and he put his face down, poking here and there in the sand with the stick at the last second, just as my finger pressed on the button. And the camera went click…

Those were such wonderful moments. We had traveled to the east coast using our old and battered second hand car (a Nissan 120Y, with a plate number beginning with PAE something…), grateful that we finally reached the coastal shores. At that time, there was no highway like now. We stopped at Pantai Batu Buruk, spending the night at about one of the more decent hotels amongst the handfuls that were around at K.T. We walked along the beach; sometimes running, sometimes walking; at times playing hide and seek. The children were laughing gleefully.

Then, we were off to Dungun, stopping to put up the night at a very modest place. No TV, no air-conditioning and no hot water. Only the bare necessities and the most important thing was that the place was spotlessly clean. In the early hour of the morning, we were already up, enjoying the view of the sun rising slowly above the horizon, the rolling white waves amidst the waters so blue.

Suddenly, there was a lot of noise and commotion in the air. Our little son whom we believe could not understand a thing, was somehow feeling the change in the air. Both our children's faces were beaming as they ran towards the shore.

Yonder, we could see a group of men, the waters up to their waistline, flanking both sides of what made up to be a boat. Slowly, they were closing into the shore, the semi-circular shape that they made becoming narrower and smaller. Just then, we could see something else. Right at the centre from where they stood, there were fish! Yes! Fish! Fresh and gleaming like rainbow in the sun's rays. Here and there, jumping up towards the sky and landing back onto the shallow waves. The net beneath them was beginning to show as the group of men slowly pulled it up onto the sands. A typical scene back then, of fishermen pulling in their catch of the day. But not to us, city dwellers. We were mesmerized!

By then, our children were nearly hysterical with excitement. And so were the little groups of children and women of the village, who had gathered around. They too were jumping up and down along the shores. Smiling faces, everywhere….

This little piece of experience was a very valuable one. The closest thing that our children got to real life fish were the occasional visits to the aquarium. We also took them to the wet market at the Central Market of Ipoh once in a while to let them watch how the fish that they finally see at the dinner table were being handled.

I cannot imagine how life would be like for our children’s children…They get to buy clean fish at the local hypermarket; there is no doubt about that. But then, they will be deprived of the real joy in getting a first hand experience such as like the one we had…. (Research has found that all fish are diminishing and there will not be any more fish for us to eat in 40 years).

Who then should be blamed?

Eidul Adha greetings..

Wishing Eid Mubarak to everyone!

May we continue to rekindle the spirit of sacrifice as it was exemplified by our Prophet Ibrahim a.s. and his son Ismail a.s. simply for the sake of seeking the pleasure of Allah and Him alone...Amin.

Bring down that wall!

My other half was watching the BBC news early this morning while I was summoning my might to start examining a postgraduate thesis from a certain university down south. All of sudden, my eyes were transfixed on a certain message scribbled on an ugly wall, flashed on the tube.

“WHY IS THIS WALL HERE?”

A commentator was presenting all the hype about the final fall of the Berlin Wall on the 9th of November twenty years ago (1989) and how the event has turned into a sort of worldwide celebration nowadays.

My eyes turned misty as I suddenly remembered about the plight of our brethren – the Palestinians holed up within the walls of the heartless Zionists.

Just then, an email forwarded from Dr. Hafidzi jolted me. And so, I am doing my part to educate others about the Apartheid Wall.

These are facts:

1. Israel's apartheid wall is three times the length of the Berlin Wall.

2. Israel's wall was ruled illegal by the International Court of Justice,sections of the wall have also been ruled illegal by Israel's high court.

3. Israel's wall mostly separates Palestinians from other Palestinians, not Palestinians from Israelis

4. Israel's wall confiscates Palestinian farmland and water resources in contravention of international law.

5. Israel's wall cuts off access of Palestinians from their other family members, deprive them of their rights of a decent livelihood, rights for proper education and even treatment in hospitals.

And so likewise, I am asking Israel and its counterparts - the same thing as what was flashed by the BBC news:

“WHY IS THE WALL THERE AT PALESTINE?”

I demand an answer!

PS. Remember the story of the little bird who tried to carry water back and forth from a nearby river in its tiny beak to save the Prophet Ibrahim when he was put on the stakes to be burnt by the cruel Emperor? The little bird was ridiculed by its friends (the eagle) because after all how much water can he carry to smother the flames? The bird’s heart may be tiny but it was a great one, for he replied, “This is the least that I can do. I have an answer that I have done my part when I will be questioned by Allah on the day of judgement, what have I done to help?”

So, why not do your part?

For resources on what little that you can do to spread this message, please visit:
http://www.endtheoccupation.org/article.php?list=type&type=317

Tell the Caterpillar Company (which directly profits from
CAT equipment being used to demolish Palestinian homes and orchards in
the path of the wall and in the actual construction of the wall) that what they are doing is WRONG. Click here

More resources:

http://tinyurl.com/stopthewall

http://www.endtheoccupation.org/downloads/09wall.pdf

<http://www.endtheoccupation.org/article. php?id=2380>

<http://www.endtheoccupation.org/calendar.php>.

'Beautiful Daffodils'...amongst other books...

Thank you, Allah...Most Gracious, Most Merciful for allowing my fourth book "Beautiful Daffodils" (Seindah Dafodil) to be chosen amongst the list of books purchased by the Ministry of Education for the year 2009.

I chanced upon this surprising and happy news here...
Thank you to all readers for the support. Parents may present this book to their teenagers as a way of indirectly giving advise to their teenagers; especially the importance of inculcating the importance of adhering to our faith and iman. More so, for those young adults who find themselves away from home in a far away land, and foreign environment...

To all youngsters, feel proud of our faith and iman i.e. Islam for only this can ward us from the impending dangers of undesirable influences that may destroy our identity as Muslims.

Of quakes and devastations…

I love to watch the History Channel 555 on Astro. The series are eyeopeners, knowledge enriched as well as being therapeutic when times are taxing and academic commitments become so stressful and too demanding.

Was watching a slot on the Lost City of Atlantis which existed thousands of years ago, whereby it seems more recent studies suggests that it may be situated more towards the east; near the island of Crete. It is believed that the technology advancements during that civilization then were very advanced. The existence of sophisticated high rise buildings with indoor plumbing, extensive irrigation facilities, architecture, code of laws where men and women are of equal standing plus other richness of information. However, within a blink of an eye, the whole civilization vanished in a huge earthquake.

The devastation produced by the event was far worse than the one which afflicted the island of Krakatoa in 1883. Even then, the Krakaota produced a Tsunami reaching 120 feet high killing about 36,000 people. Skies were blackened for three days. The sound of the explosion was heard as far away as 3,000 miles. The one at Atlantis was 4 times that of Krakatoa. Just imagine? Good readups are available here and here.

And then, news came of the quake which hit the Samoas followed by Padang, Indonesia. Questions started to arise. Are those two earthquakes connected? (Read here).

Whatever, such news brought sorrow deep down in my heart. How fragile this precious earth is. How little there is beholding our lives. Only God knows how long more we can withstand watching our lives unfold before our eyes.

How true are the words of Socrates:
"Man's life is like a drop of dew on a leaf."

While our are hearts are still pounding, why not contribute some of the good things that God has mercifully bestowed upon us.

"And every one has a direction to which he should turn, therefore hasten to (do) good works; wherever you are, Allah will bring you all together; surely Allah has power over all things.” (Al Baqarah: 148)

Jamaah Islah Malaysia (JIM) has taken up a mission called Misi Kasih Padang (freely translated as The Mission - Love Padang) to help those in need there. (Click here for more information).

Being in Malaysia, we have been spared of this catastrophe and for that, we are truly blessed by God. But then, who knows about the future?

Let the following words of the Quran below remind us of the fragility of our existence (Surah The Romans: 41-43):

“Disasters have spread throughout the land and sea, because of what the people have committed. He thus lets them taste the consequences of some of their works, that they may return (to the right works).”

“Say, "Roam the earth and note the consequences for those before you." Most of them were idol worshipers.”

“Therefore, you shall devote yourself completely to this perfect religion, before a day comes which is made inevitable by GOD. On that day, they will be shocked.”

Are we fully aware too that studies have shown that these catastrophes may strike again, anytime in the near future? (Read here and here).

Till then, we can only pray to God, to ward ourselves of these perils. Also to hasten in doing and promoting good deeds while we still can. I will continue to watch the History Channel 555, to remind me constantly of my existence and fuel my soul of the urgency to enjoin good.

Would you like to watch the channel too? Tell me if you have other enlightening information. Do share them with me. I would only be too happy and grateful…

Puteri Salsabila....2nd. Reprint..

All Praises be to God (Alhamdulillah...) for making it possible for my book, Puteri Salsabila to be in its 2nd. reprint (September - just last month). I received the news when it was listed here (but for non-Malay readerss, maybe the source would not be understood). Anyway, just sharing my happiness...


I have also found a review of the book Puteri Salsabila. A very hilarious one indeed! For Malay Language readers, please click here... (Thank you to blogger Adi Jeff).

As it is, 2 more of my other books have also been reprinted last year i.e. Sentuhan Muttaqeen and Seungu Lavendar.

For this, I just want to say:

Thank you to readers for buying my books and most important of all - for reading them. I do hope my Malay Language readers will continue to enjoy reading my books...

Eid Mubarak!

Wishing everyone Eid Mubarak 1430H!

Please forgive... for any misunderstood words or wrong doings on my part.

May Allah accept all our good deeds and may we get to see Ramadhan again next year, Insha Allah (God willing….)

PS. The nest is quiet now, no more whimpers or sweet baby talk from little baby Ameer Ihsan nor chatters from his talkative elder sister Nuha Insyirah. They have left for down south, to be with their father’s side of the family, having spent the last few days of Ramadhan with us. And so, my other half and I decided to start the six days of fasting in Shawal. If we don’t make a start, probably we will not make it at all. Good deeds shouldn’t wait, right?

Still so happy together…

September. Brings back all the memories at the back of my mind. Happy days and sad moments. 30 years….is a long time. That is how long we have been together. My other half and I.

The day before our anniversary, we sat next to each other, shoulder to shoulder, in a train. Enjoying each other’s company, watching the scenery. All the way from KL Sentral to Parit Buntar.

Along the way, there were so many things to see, to laugh at, to reminisce. At Ipoh, I recalled the train would be full of white clad boys (from STAR - where else?). The residential school where my husband hailed from. Some of the experiences on the train rides during school holidays decades ago, I have shared in my book Seungu Lavendar.

We passed by Bukit Berapit where the station is in ruins now. All dilipidated and in a sad state. But I could recollect the time when back then, the station was still intact and functioning; N, a hostel mate of mine (when all of us Tunku Kurshiah College, Seremban girls were on our way home up north, sleeping in chartered coaches in the year 1974), winked from her deep sleep in the middle of the night. Thinking that it was nearing her stop, N threw her luggage out the door of the train which was slowing down momentarily. Before we could stop her, she had hopped down from the train. If not for the shouts from the KTM man on duty, asking her what was she thinking, which of course startled her and caused her to wake up from her state of delirium and scrambled frantically back up the coach, I think she would have been stranded all alone in the pitch darkness and jungle, in the middle of nowhere. From then on, we took the liberty to take on the incident as a subject for N to be teased about. Naughty us!

At a certain stop called Pondok Tanjung, what a sight to behold! It was as if time stood still. As though we were caught in a time tunnel of the 1950’s. Especially the rustic quarters, children waving, smiles from wrinkled faces holding onto their motorbikes, patiently waiting for the train carrying us to go by, at the tiny railway crossing. Must remember to get hold of a few pictures, next time…

And then, another delightful sight - Tasek Merah. Looking out through the window, one has the impression that one is flying across the lake, as the track cuts right across the serene waters….my heart involuntarily sang to the melodious tune of the 1967 song, “So Happy Together”.

It was just wonderful! All praises be to God. What a great way to spend one’s 30th wedding anniversary….Thank you, Allah. I pray that God would allow us to grow old gracefully, the same like as this kindly soul, a friendly visitor of my blog who happened to hop by (admire his sincere efforts, good work and having spent a fruitful life) just celebrated…(for theirs is 45 years…Subhanallah….)

Interesting site about Malaysian trains and its history, click here..

True sense of independence…

Independence does not merely connote physical freedom from colonization but also surpasses that of mental and spiritual influence. From the Islamic point of view, does it mean that a person, race or nation is independent if it still upholds principles be it from the east or the west other than the Divine Revelations of the Quran and and sayings of the Prophet i.e. Al Hadith? Anything that is from the west is the best or anything that is from the east such as local practice and culture or that the supremacy of a particular race is considered pure and sacred and therefore must be adhered to at all costs? Even to the extent of having the right to do anything as one likes at the expense of injustice to fellow man or to discard the truth?

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) has successfully built an exemplary Islamic nation capable of governing a just society for everyone commanding respect, inclusive of non-muslims around the city of Madinah in every aspects of life. So why is it that Muslims i.e. us in this later generations cannot emulate the same model to be implemented today?

Islam came to rejuvenate mankind and to free them from colonization of their minds and soul. Listen to what Ruba’ei bin Umair has to say when confronted by Rustam, the Roman general most feared by friends and foes. Rustam had asked Ruba’ei, “Why did you come to us?”

Ruba’ei answered, “We have come to free mankind from the subserviency of one to another and instead instill one’s obedience to One God only, to bring the light of faith from the darkness of disbelief and to enlighted mankind’s narrowness of this world to the vastness of avenues of the hereafter.”

When mankind is able to obey solely the words of his own Creator, then only is he empowered with the spirit of independence in the real sense…

Only God knows best…

Happy 52nd Independence Day!

Points have been modified from the malay version of this and this.

'Rayuan Ramadhan' 1430H Promotion..YouTube

Wished there was an English version of this...but for Malay speaking audience, please view here...

Thank you!

Ramadhan...'Tis the time for sowing..

Please download Brochure1 and Brochure2





Our Reference : Q-10-3-10-27-04(30) 2009
Date : 06 Ogos 2009 / 13 Syaaban 1430H

Dear All:


RE: SPONSORS FOR BREAKING OF FAST & DONATIONS FOR THOSE REALLY IN NEED

May you be in the care of Allah Subhanahu wa Ta’ala and may He bestow upon you good health and serenity.

Ramadhan is here again knocking on our doors. Its presence has always been looked forward to. ’Tis the time for sowing seeds of good deeds. No more whispers from the evil beings and the shaitan, only our own heart’s desires to be curbed. We only need to stop ourselves from all misdeeds as this is the only month in which Satan is jailed and we only have to control ourselves from the habit of sins.

God has stated in the Quran (Al Baqarah: 185):

“In the month of Ramadan the Koran was revealed, a book of guidance for mankind with proofs of guidance distinguishing right from wrong.”

Giving unto others (especially food to the hungry and those who are fasting) forms the basis for most of the other good deeds. It instills mercy, love and kindliness towards other human beings.

In the verse of the Quran (Al Insan: 8-12), God has said,

“..and who give food - however great be their own want of it - unto the needy, and the orphan, and the captive, (saying, in their hearts,) "We feed you for the sake of God alone: we desire no recompense from you, nor thanks: behold, we stand in awe of our Sustainer's judgment on a distressful, fateful Day!" And so, God will preserve them from the woes of that Day, and will bestow on them brightness and joy, and will reward them for all their patience in adversity with a garden (of bliss) and with (garments of) silk.”


The Islamic Organization Pertubuhan Jamaah Islah Malaysia (JIM) is currently organizing its 11th year in running project entitled Rayuan Ramadhan (Ramadhan Plea) and call for donations. This is to assist the Muslims in need, who have been denied their rights in their own homeland, victims of natural disasters, those who have been forgotten and who are fighting for the cause of Allah. Amongst the countries involved are Sudan, Palestin, Mindanao, Southern Thailand, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Cambodia, our new brethren at Hidayah Centre and the like. We very much welcome our brothers and sisters in faith throughout Malaysia to join together with us in this venture. Your generous donations will be duly distributed to those stated as above.

The Prophet Muhammad (Peace be Upon Him) said,

“It is the month of patience, and the reward of patience is Heaven. It is the month of charity, and a month in which a believer's sustenance is increased. Whoever gives food to a fasting person to break his fast, shall have his sins forgiven, and he will be saved from the Fire of Hell, and he shall have the same reward as the fasting person, without his reward being diminished at all." [Narrated by Ibn Khuzaymah]

Therefore, let us make full use of this opportunity which only comes once in a year. Please lend your hands to ours which are outstretched, with the intention of none other than to seek His pleasure and rewards through this sincere effort.

Together with this are brochures that you may download and distribute to your friends, colleagues and family members. The brochures are also available here http://rayuan-ramadhan.jim.org.my/

May Allah bless us and accept all our deeds in this blessed month of Ramadhan...Amin

Wasalam (Unto you be peace),

HAJI IBRAHIM BIN MOHAMAD
Programme Director
Rayuan Ramadhan / Sedekah JIM 1430H
+60341053159 @ +6041089669

COUNTDOWN: 12 DAYS LEFT
DEADLINE: 19 RAMADHAN 1430H / 09 SEPTEMBER 2009
(All donations after the deadline will be categorized as sadaqah

Thank you all!

LET US INFAQ...

All donations may be made via PO/MO/Cheque/Cash, deposited into:

1. Bank Muamalat Malaysia Berhad 1403-0000391- 713
2. Bank Islam Malaysia Berhad 1211-3010005-797

All payments to be made under "Pertubuhan Jamaah Islah Malaysia".

Payments may also be made online through JIM e-bazaar

Please send your scanned slips by email or fax them to:

SEKRETARIAT RAYUAN RAMADHAN 1430H
PERTUBUHAN JAMAAH ISLAH MALAYSIA
LOT 300.2, LORONG SELANGOR,
PUSAT BANDAR MELAWATI
53100 KUALA LUMPUR
Faks: +60341071754 @ +60341086319

" TOGETHER, WE SAVOUR THE REAL MEANING OF RAMADHAN"

Sekretariat Rayuan Ramadhan 1430H
Pertubuhan Jamaah Islah Malaysia (JIM)
Lot 300.2, Lorong Selangor,
Pusat Bandar Melawati,
53100 Kuala Lumpur.
Website: http://rayuan-ramadhan.jim.org.my/blog/
email: ramadhan-qurban@jim.org.my

Hectic but fulfilling…

Have had so many things in my mind. And had my hands full lately.

Since last year, have been chairing the ever demanding job of organizing our school’s biannual international conference RoViSP’09 (Robotics, Vision, Signal Processing and Power Applications), this time around to be held at the Awana Porto Malai, Langkawi, 19 dan 20th of December. Now is the crucial moment. Registration and payments are coming in. Sponsorship has been very poor mainly because of the economic downturn. Nevertheless, judging from the good number of participants from within Malaysia and international countries, I am thankful to You, Allah for having had the opportunity to lead a very disciplined and hardworking committee members. We hope this conference would prove to be a success as always…Insha Allah (God willing).

My two precious grandchildren and their mum (and very helpful maid) were with us at our hometown for a week. So, I had to juggle the balls very well. The fours hours of driving daily (back and forth) from Ipoh to Parit Buntar was something I had not done for quite a while as my other half was away for most of the days of the week at Putrajaya and up north in Perlis. But then, I learnt to appreciate the Greatness of Allah through His creations. The magnificent mist amid the greeneries (in the wee hours of the mornings just before and after the Menora Tunnel) and scenic mountain views of Kinta Valley at dusk, just before reaching the Jelapang toll. Plus the beautiful faces of the little ones – Ameer Ihsan and his sweet chatterbox sister Insyirah, when I arrive at my doorstep. Thank you Allah, Alhamdulillah…

It is not too late to wish a very blessed Ramadhan to all. Now is the time for sowing…to do good to ourselves as well as unto others… May Allah accept our good deeds, Amin…

Chip off the old block…

“What happened?” I asked, gushing out of my friend’s house upon hearing a loud screech and bangs. It was already nearly 11 o’clock at night.

“That car driven by that couple of teenages, rammed into A’s. Over there!” my husband pointed his fingers to our friend’s vehicle, parked neatly over the ample kerb.

I saw two teenagers, one a girl and another a boy, standing at the far corner of the spot, their faces very sour.

“How did this thing happen?” asked our friend A’s eldest daughter Z, who was already outside the house before me. With her, her young daughter, her younger brother-in-law and her own younger brother, snapping away with his digital camera at their father’s ruined car.

Z’s father was in Kuala Lumpur (KL) while her mum, my old friend, was recuperating at home after undergoing a major operation just a few days before.

The back of A’s continental car was hugely dented, its tail lights broken, the splinters spilling onto the ground while the front part was crushed into a lamp post. The other car was a total wreck with about a third of its front portion all tangled up.

“I think your car is only worthy to be sent to the scrap yard. Its chassis too may be badly affected. You two have driving licenses?” said my husband to the teenagers.

The two shook their stone-faced heads.

“What were you thinking?” asked my husband.

“I lost control while trying to avoid another incoming car,” the girl said.

“Another car? There wasn’t any. I saw what happened,” my husband muttered, looking at me. I could sense that the girl was trying to tell a lie.

“And what were you two doing?” I asked, with a frown on my forehead.

“We were trying to learn how to drive,” said the girl, again trying to tell a lie.

“Listen here, young lady! People take driving lessons at a valid driving school during day time to learn driving, not at this time of night!” I said.

Then, out of concern, my husband asked again, “Have you called your parents?” His right hand was pointing to a car sticker, with a symbol of the police department on the front shield of the vehicle.

Only then did the girl start to play her fingers on her cell phone.

“Both of you still studying?” I asked.

“Fifth form this year,” said the boy, standing with his legs fidgeting.

“Which school?” I continued asking.

“That school nearby,” he said, his fingers pointing to an area at the back portion of the housing estate.

“Whose car is this?” asked my husband.

“My father’s,” said the boy.

“How come the girl was driving it?” asked my husband.

Again, the stone faced looks from the two teens.

“The girl was driving too fast, right at that junction over there while she should have slowed down and stopped before moving on. She hit this stationary car belonging to A and the momentum caused it to veer forward, hitting the lamp post. Costs incurred, easily aaround RM 10 K for A’s car while the boy’s car might go up to between 30 till 40 K!” said my husband out loud.

“I hope you have learnt your lesson? And you learnt the hard way. Next time, no license, no getting behind the wheels. Please remember that!” I started.

A little while later, a car arrived. The driver who was a lady, parked quite a distance from where we were standing.

“Oh! My God!” said she, trying to calm herself down by rubbing her right hand on her chest, “I told her she can’t drive when she wanted to use our car to go out. And now, this thing has happened. I will pay for all the expenses incurred,” said the lady. I held out my hand to hers, trying to sooth her.

Just then, another car stopped at the nearby roadside.

A man with bits of sweat clearly seen on his forehead got out. He said, “Oh my god! I am not well and my head is throbbing so bad,” as he walked up and down the two wrecks.

“This must be your car?” said my husband.

“Yes!” said the man.

“I am sorry to tell you this. But it wasn’t your son driving it!” said my husband, trying to sound candid.

“Tell you what I will do! I will report that I was the one who drove the car when the accident happened. Easier to claim for insurance,” said the man, wiping the sweat on his forehead.

“I do not want to know whatever you want to do or how you do it. I am more concerned with my friend’s car. He is away. Somebody has to pay for the damages,” my husband said.

“And you two! This is not the time to be galavanting around. You should be glad that you were not hurt. Taking an important exam at the end of this year, right?” said my husband.

“Actually, I don’t like the idea of my son driving especially when he doesn’t own a license. But you know these youngsters,” said the man, trying to make a point.

“Oh no! We have to make it clear to our children. No license, no getting behind the wheels. And we have to be very firm about it,” said I.

“My daughter said she was only out to get a book. She had wanted to use our car but I said no. When she said that a friend would be driving, I relented. And now, she’s the one driving a car that is not hers,” said the mum who was silent all these while.

“Sis, I am sorry to say this, but next time, please do not believe everything that our youngsters say. Sometimes we have to be strict to be kind. And another thing, a boy and a girl, at this time of night,” I said lowering my voice, holding her shoulders.

The lady nodded her head.

“Okay now! We have to get going. We’re on our way to Kuala Lumpur actually. Remember my words, drive only when you get hold of a valid license,” said my husband to the two teenagers.

“If, we are able to secure it,” said the girl, defiantly.

In an instant, I was so irritated that I wanted to get away as soon as possible.

There was no sign of remorse nor regret, judging from the attitudes of the teenagers. A boy and a girl, alone in a car at that time of night? A girl who is so used to telling a lie (she lied to her mum) and so assumed that she could also cook up some story (about avoiding another car and learning how to drive at that time of night) in order to get away with something which she did. A father who was prepared to tell a lie in order to cover up.

What concerned me most was that, he uttered those words in front of the children. His own son. As parents, what kind of messages and values are we sending to our young ones? That, it is perfectly OK to tell a lie? Two wrongs does not make a right. As a father, surely you would want to instill honesty to someone of your own blood and kin. How about sense of respect? Dignity? Integrity? I shudder at the thought. Both my husband and I were very disturbed……

'Sweet' mishap...

“We have to get out! Out! Right now!” cried my husband, turning his head to our children seated at the back of the car, amid the smoke puffing out of the car engines.

“My neck hurts,” said our daughter, scrambling out of the seat.

“What’s this? What's happening?” cried our young son, waking up from his sleep.

I was too numbed to say anything.

Just then, I heard a friendly voice, “911 paramedics. Are you all right?” Hands were everywhere, soothing, calming. Asking where it hurts.

“Everything seems to be okay! We would suggest you to get to the nearest hospital, just in case,” said one of the paramedics, gathering up all his things.

“I think we will be all right,” said my husband, still dazed.

The paramedic lifted his hat, as a sign of respect and was gone.

“Someone must have called them in the nick of time,” said someone in the little crowd that had began to gather around us.

“Are you hurt?” said a young girl, her face veiled with the look of concern, “Here bro! Call mum and dad!”

“Yeah! I just did! They’re on their way,” said a young boy, apparently the girl’s brother. They must have been traveling together with the elder sister behind the wheel of the van.

“Let me take a look at your driving license. Yeah! You and you!” said a police officer, looking at my husband’s face and then to the young girl. Both handed in their licenses.

“Good thing you had the insurance with that rented car. Cannot imagine the mess you will be in without it! Here is your report. Get to the nearest agent and you will get another car as replacement,” the police officer quipped and was then on his way. But not without making sure that all is well and everything was cleared. All these were settled in a jiffy.

(I was attached to the University of Calgary doing research at the Engineering Department for 3 months, sponsored by Asian Development Bank , back then in 1993. My family joined me during the last 2 weeks of my stay. We had traveled up north from Calgary to Edmonton, enjoying the tranquiities of landscapes, through the rolling wheat fields of the Canadian Prairies across the Saskatchewan River , then to Jasper, putting up the night in a log cabin at Pocahontas ; then passed by the spectacular Columbia Icefields stopping to take a ride on the Snowmobile, taken pictures of scenic turquoise waters of Lake Moraine (the most photographed lake in the world), spending nights at Lake Louise and Banff. We continued south west to Kelowna, further on to Vancouver, brought the rented car we were in onto the British Columbia (BC) Ferries across to Vancouver Island. From there, we ventured to Penticton enjoying the enchanted fruit farms of Lake Okanagan along the way. (The settings of this journey of which I shared in my novel “Beautiful Daffodils”) To save up on accommodation, most of the nights throughout the journey, were spent at International Youth Hostels of which we became members for a year.)

On that unfortunate day of the accident, at a small city called Vernon, we were on our way from Penticton back to Calgary i.e. our last leg of our journey which was a 7 hours drive. All the traveling must have taken its toll. My husband, after driving for more than 3,109 km, overall 38 hours day by day, spanning the 8 days of journey across the Canadian Rockies through the two states of Canada (Alberta and British Columbia) within a few days must have been overwhelmed with fatigue. My housemates said that we were crazy because they had been in Canada for two years and the furthest to the west they drove to at that time was as far as Waterton Lake Park . While my husband had just arrived a few days before. But we were adamant with the trip, to go through the adventure awaiting us...

Back to the story, the young girl was mothering my two children, constantly asking how they were, offering drinks and snacks.

I was looking at our rented car. Its hood, a total wreck! The van which we hit right in front of us was hardly dented.

“There they are!” said the girls brother, pointing to another car that was veering to the side of the road.

“Hi! I am so sorry that this happened!” said the father, getting out of the car, his hands held out to my husband's.

“No. It was entirely my fault. I must have been distracted for a second," said my husband, his hands grasping the fingers of the pleasant and nice man.

“You must be on holiday. I know how bad you must feel!” said the mum, as she too held out her hand to mine.

“Here! Let us send you to the nearest agent so you may be on your way!” said the dad.

And the next instant, we were at the counter of the nearest car rental agent, holding the keys to another rented car to replace the battered one.

“We have been to Malaysia before. Beautiful country. Hope you will enjoy the rest of your holidays here in Canada!” said the kind, old gentlemen, after asking us where we were from. The rest of his family were smiling their hearts out.

“Tell you what! Let us have our photos taken!” said he.

And so, I took one using our camera, while they had one taken too using theirs.

What a stark contrast to, about the same situation which my other half and I encountered barely three weeks ago, near our friend’s residence. That will be my next entry. After reading it and this present entry, please tell me what you think, okay?

A touching email..

I was skimming through the tons of emails that poured in. All of a sudden, my eyes rested on this email. Really touched my heart. Never have I felt so elated. As a writer, one feels very happy if what one has written can create an impact on somebody else’s lives or change reader’s mind set. All praises be to Allah.....

Thank you for making my day. (I am giving the English version, freely translated from the Bahasa Melayu version).

"I was walking past a shop when suddenly, my eyes caught sight of these words ”Jadi, anda mahu menulis?” (So, You Want to Write?). My mind could not stop thinking about those words. On impulse, I retraced my steps back to the bookshop. My hands were eagerly flicking the pages a few second later. It was as though a voice was whispering at my ears, “Buy the book!” Without hesitation, I took out an RM10 note and quickly walked over to the counter. As soon as I paid for the book, my heart was at peace. As though, I had acquired something precious and priceless.

As soon as I reached home, I feasted my eyes on the book, page by page, until right until the last sentence. So, that is how it is….My heart was saying. Is this what I have been trying to find? Is this what I have been craving to do all this while? From then on, the reality of the moment struck me and so I prayed to God that if this is the thing that would satisfy my hunger for a sense of purpose in my life, then please help me. Make it easy for me. All this while, all I had were only dead ends. I was sceptical of my own capabilities. But now, I am so happy. Even though I may not have started on something really great and to be proud of, everything has always been abandoned halfway through. But this time around…I am determined to begin on my first step."

(Sender's actual name undisclosed)

I have replied to this sincere sender that in whatever you do, do it really well and do it wholeheartedly. Write from your heart and your writings will touch the hearts of others..I do hope you will find whatever that you have been searching for all this while and I wish you well...

In the top 30 list....

Incoming short message, “Congrats! Read in the internet that your name is amongst top 30 writers, recipients of highest royalty from PTS Publications for the year 2008!”

Jolted, my fingers promptly replied, “Really? Wasn’t aware. Thank you for the info.”

“Of course I know! I am one of your number one fans,” was the subsequent reponse.

“Thank you again for your support and words,” said I.

I received another text message of the same nature from TM Lim, Chief Editor of Malaysia Harmoni.

Congratulatory messages also came from old hostel mates of mine while at Tunku Kurshiah College, Seremban decades ago. One of them is now a diplomat in Tokyo, Japan. Also from writer friend, Mr. Hamdy and another fellow organization, Mr. Khairul Fadly.The same greetings were received as responses in my blog entry from Nurazzah8 and also Madam Siti Rafidah Hassan Basri, both I have never met face to face but we have become blogger friends. Thank you all, for your kind words.

Dr. Danial Zainal Abidin (former Head of JIM in the state of Penang during the initial years of the formation of JIM) is the topmost recipient in the list of 30 top writers. It was his efforts in writing which inspired and motivated me to make a start on this venture. 2 of my first writings were then published in the book, “Bagaimana Akhirnya Saya Bertudung” (How I First Put On The Hijab) in the year 2003.

How about my placement in the ranking? Frankly speaking, something that is not really very big to rave about…Yes! Right at the bottom-most. Actually, I have never dreamt of this and it has never crossed my mind that I could get in any rankings at all for that matter. I write simply for pleasure and for the fun of it. Mostly because, I thought that I could do something in the dissipation of the message of Islam through writings. That is all.

Alhamdulillah, praises be to the Almighty. May this motivate me to continue in these efforts.

What is interesting is that, 2 religious figures are also in the rankings.

May there be more who would be inspired to come in and join hands in this venture….Amin.

Another precious gift...

Tuesday, 7th. July.

8.00 a.m.

My son-in-law called, “Mum! Nusaybah is wheeled into the labour room.”

“Okay! My prayers with you both,” said I, getting ready for my 9.00 a.m. lectures. My heart skipped a bit.

9.50 a.m.

My eyes kept creeping over to the elongated square face on my wrist. Then I bellowed, “All right class! I will be leaving you a softcopy of today’s materials and a few more. Let us call it a day. I need to be somewhere else. We will see each other again, Thursday afternoon.”

Puzzled looks.

“All right!” I snapped my fingers, putting my hands on the table, “My daughter is already in the labour room, her second one. I need to rush to Kuala Lumpur. I do hope you people will understand.”

Faces lit up. Smiles everywhere.

“OK! All the best!” bags flying, rumbling of chairs.

“Congrats Prof!” from faces, beaming.

“Thank you!” I returned their greetings.

11.00 a.m.

My other half and I hit the highway down south, while my lips were constantly praying to God, to make everything smooth and easy. The past few nights were filled with fervent devotion to Him. For them - my daughter and her other half.

1.37 p.m. Tapah R & R Area.

A call again, “Mum! You have a grandson! Exactly an hour ago..”

“Alhamdulillah! Praise be to God!” Mist covering my eyes as I turned to my other half and smiled.

Puzzled look, then a smiles all over as my other half patted my shoulders and squeezed my hand. We were back on the road. But not before my beloved called my son-in-law, congratulating him. Our hearts raced as fast as the car could take us down the highway.

3.00 p.m.

However, we could not see or hold our beloved new addition to the family.

“He needs to be put under observation for tonight. Nothing to worry, just a precaution,” said Dato’ Dr. Musa Mohd. Nordin, the child specialist (who happened to be our dear old friend, decades ago while in the U.K.)

“He was silent for a few minutes. But he opened his eyes just seconds after coming out into this world,” said the father, my son-in-law, proudly showing us the picture which he managed to capture on his phone.

I have never felt so blessed! Another precious gift from Allah, The Creator, The Bestower...

Welcome, Ameer Ihsan! May Allah bless you and may you turn out to be a fine young man, steadfast in His path and savior of faith, Amin…

For the sake of brotherhood in faith...

“How are you, mum?” said a very familiar voice at the other end.

“Fine! How ARE you?” said I, sensing something amiss in the tone of my son’s voice.

“Just feeling like wanting to share something,” he said.

“Aha..”

“Yesterday, I was at the masjid for maghrib prayers. Was doing my solat when suddenly a little boy stepped on my glasses which I put neatly positioned just beneath my face during prostrating. He was running here and there just before it happened,” said he with a sigh.

Silence.

“I am listening,” said I, encouraging him to go on.

“After the jamaah prayers, I turned to see a man, maybe from one of the countries in Africa. He apologized and said that he will pay for the damage. I just nodded my head. Then, he asked me how much I paid for my glasses. I said more than a thousand ringgit.”

“What happened then? You don’t sound too happy.”

“Yeah! Because right after hearing my words, the man suddenly became offensive and lectured to me about Qada’ and Qadar.”

“Hmm..” I knew that something was not quite right, as I know my son’s attitudes and temperaments very well. Never, the one who likes to be lectured at and easily provoked.

“I lashed out. Telling him not to insult my intelligence. I know what Qada’ and Qadar is. As soon as I turned my heels towards the door of the masjid, I noticed all eyes in the masjid were on both of us. People from all over the world.”

The place where my son resides (where my other half and I hop over to spend weekend escapades or to attend to some other activities at the capital), is full of expatriates from the Middle East and Korea. So, the masjid would be full of Muslims from many nations across the globe.

I was quiet, allowing time and some space so my son could gather his words.

“Mum, I could not sleep throughout the night. I lay in bed thinking. We were all one, standing and then stooping in our prayers, devoted to God, the only One. Then, right after giving salams, I was there exchanging harsh words with another, my own brother in faith.”

Still, I did not say anything, wanting to let him pour his words.

“This morning, I had my glasses repaired. It cost me RM300. Then, just now, after the noon congregation prayers, the same man came over to me and apologized again, asking me how much I spent to fix my specs. I told him. Then he reached out to his wallet and handed me the amount. But I said to him, “Please take back your RM 100,” When he asked me why, I answered, “Because I lost my temper over such a small thing.”

My lips involuntarily curved into a slight smile.

“Then, we hugged one another, patted each other’s shoulders while the others in the masjid smiled a wide smile,” continued my son.

“Good to hear that,” I said in a low voice.

“Yes! And I am so overcomed with relief,” said he.

I did not say anything anymore. We talked about other things for a little while longer.

Deep inside me I was so grateful to Allah and was absolutely glad that my son had learnt an important lesson. The value of brotherhood and love amongst mankind (especially Muslims) far surpasses the petty things that we say we own in this short life.

A shining gem is gone forever...

“Mum, Shaykh Fathi Yakan has passed away,” said my son as I was busy jotting in the details of my visit to the industries where my students were attached for the past two weeks.

For a while, my fingers were numb and I put aside my pen, uttering a prayer for his soul.

Dr. Fathi Yakan, an electrical & electronic engineer by profession and holder of degrees in Arab and Islamic studies cum politician, writer, has passed away on Sunday the 14th of June, 2009.

He, whose books changed my perception and perspective of the Islamic faith – To Be A Muslim, amongst more than 35 other titles. A book which unveiled the obligatory duties of being a Muslim, responsibility towards oneself and towards others, which also continuously became my reference during my student days, and an everyday guide while being actively involved in the society through an NGO (JIM), even until now.

Fathi Yakan was born in the northern port city of Tripoli in 1933. He became involved in Islamic work in Lebanon in the mid 1950's and was a pioneer in the establishment of the Islamic Movement there. Yakan was elected a member of parliament in 1992.

His passing casts deep sorrow…A jewel may have just diminished..but for sure, its lustre and sparkle is still freshly ingrained in our minds…

May his soul be blessed, his good deeds, steadfastness and dedication for Islam be abundantly rewarded with jannah and rahmah by Allah…Amin.

May there be more ‘Fathi Yakans’ amongst us and in forthcoming generations…Amin.

PS. His time was due…how about us? The dewdrops in us…the seconds before we ‘dry out’ are ticking away…Are we ready for that moment?

Sowing seeds for the hereafter…

“Nurturing Quranic Generations” - that is the school motto. Recently turned 20 years of age, Institusi Pendidikan Al Hidayah is an educational institution set amidst bluish green limestone hills of Gunung Rapat, Ipoh, Perak.

The institution has produced students with strong foundation based upon a solid and integrated form of education, in tune with the concept of Islamic education which is wholesome (shumul) and balanced. A balanced and wholesome system of education connotes a system that encourages and inculcates a sound education in terms of spiritual, physical, developing the creative mind, guidance in the independence of thought and soul, nurturing social finesse and acquiring special skills, amongst others.

From its humble beginnings (its early years being in the 1980’s, was initially comprised of 3 rented residential premises around Rapat Setia, Ipoh), Al Hidayah now houses its primary and secondary school within 2 blocks of buildings within its grounds.

Al Hidayah has become the pride of Muslim based institution of learning in Ipoh, in this state of Perak because of its achievements especially in producing achievers of high merits in both academic and religious standings.

I am proud to say that my own son, Anas bin Mohamad Sofian who is now an engineer, with the drilling department of Carigali Petronas, off the coast of Bintulu, in the middle of South China Sea, was the product of this institution. Having been with the school since year 1 at primary until year 3 at secondary level, the day to day stories at the school with his friends, became the episodes (the storyline being totally fictional) that I shared in my second book, Sentuhan Muttaqeen. The setting for the novel was based on the school. Only the name of the school has been changed i.e. Institusi Pendidikan Al Muttaqeen.

The increase in the number of students intake from year to year in the learning centre has taken its toll. There is a dire need for physical expansion. I am greatly indebted to the Al Hidayah Institution for it had impacted generously in embodying values and virtues to our youngsters (especially my own son). Therefore, it is with this realization and sense of responsibility that I am extending my assistance for the institution in dissipating this call for kind hearts amongst readers out here. For, I believe that many of us are very concerned about upbringing and providing the best in developing our future and potential leaders. In particular, the musalla (prayer place) of the school need to be upgraded (with project costs amounting to RM 800,000). So too, are the other facilities.

Work in the expansion of the facility has begun. Progress has been very slow, impeded and stalled every now and then because of shortage of funds. If there are any kind souls who are willing to lend their hands in this noble venture, you may do so through the following:

1. Maybank – Pusat Pendidikan Al Hidayah Perak Bhd. Account number 558172005969
2. Muamalat Bank – Tabung Pembangunan Al Hidayah. Account number – 08040000803716

The following are contact numbers:
Mrs. Kamariah (school clerk) 012-5858861. School office: Miss Shahida 05-3129373

Allah has said, ““Help one another in righteousness and piety - and do not help one another in sin and injustice..” ~Al Maidah: verse 2~

And in another, “The likeness of those who spend their wealth in Allah's way is as the likeness of a grain which groweth seven ears, in every ear a hundred grains. Allah giveth increase manifold to whom He will. Allah is All-Embracing, All-Knowing.” ~Al Baqarah: 261~

May Allah reward your generous souls…. Amin Ya Rabbul Alamin…

Remembering Teachers....

“Can you spare some time? Present a talk in a programme for teachers that we will be organizing in a few month’s time?” said Hajjah Norhayati Sidek on the other line.

“Programme for teachers? Are you sure that the audience will be comfortable with me? Because I am not really qualified. They are more experienced teaching in schools, for which I am at a disadvantage,” said I.

“Well! Just share whatever you have,” said the dear, old friend of mine.

I remembered the following verse from the Quran:

“Help one another in righteousness and piety - and do not help one another in sin and injustice..” (Al Maidah: Verse 2)

I knew I had to oblige to my friend’s request.

For weeks on end, I stole some time here and there, preparing for my talk i.e. a Powerpoint presentation entitled “Utilizing the Utmost from Teachers Based on Human Capital Values”. A mouthful title. I had to take a breather in between writing the full title.

For the particular purpose too, I had to study some materials. Amongst them, “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” and “The 8th Habit: From Effectiveness to Greatness”, both books by Stephen Covey. Also, “The Empty Raincoat: Making Sense of the Future” by Charles Handy and another “Talent is Never Enough: Discover the Choices That Will Take You Beyond Your Talent” by John C. Maxwell.

Other references were also garnered to make the presentation due on the 24th May, to be as interesting as possible. I wanted to stress more on the practical aspects of harnessing the potent talents each and everyone of us possess. How to manage those talents and channel them towards doing good for the society at large and to be able to maintain a strong conviction and motivation throughout the journey of our life. There are some practical aspects that we may be able to follow and they were effective for me. So, I hoped to share with the audience based upon my own experiences.

The programme called Bicara Perdana at national level organized by Majlis Guru Islah (MGI or Islah Teachers Council if translated into English) was convened at the Hill City Hotel, Ipoh, Perak. And it was rightfully so that the Honorary Secretary of JIM, Haji Nahar Md. Nor officiated the function. MGI was his brainchild years ago.

Tears welled up my eyes as I listened to the poem ‘Kau Adi Guru’ penned and recited by Ibni Khalid Jurait, the representative of Selangor. I was sure that the hearts of many others were also moved, judging from the muffled sounds and tissue grabbings amongst those present. (The poem was written in the Malay Language, the meanings of which might not be as effective if translated in English, if not, I would have loved to share it here…)

I was also happy for Mrs. Siti Aishah Mahamad’s, receiving the Teachers Award 2009 (9 candidates from various states were nominated). Siti Aishah is an Excellent Headmistress, a post she held in three schools while at the same time, never foresaking her duties as an activist under JIM and holds the post of Head of Women’s Wing of Pahang.

Sadness prevailed amid video clips, when the award for “You Will Forever Be Remembered” was given to the late Dr. Ahmad Basri bin Md. Yussoff for his tireless efforts and deeds in guiding, teaching and enjoining good deeds through JIM. He, who was fondly known as Cikgu Basri was represented by 3 of his children, Naufal, Ariej and Daniel, who came in place of their mum, Puan Noraini.

My presentation was delivered in 45 minutes in all while another, also in the same time frame was given by Mr. Haji Mat Noh Supaat, District Education Officer who was also an experienced Headmaster for Cluster Schools. His talk was entitled, “Effective Leadership in the Teaching Profession”.

I was touched that my presentation was well received, the positive responses (as was told by the secretariat of the programmes), from the evaluation sheets filled in by the audience. Alhamdulillah, All praises be to Allah. By His Grace, may all our good deeds be rewarded in the hereafter...Amin.

Kudos to my old friend, Cik Hajjah Norhayati as the Director of the programme and her team members who had put in tremendous efforts in the preparations months before and in making sure the event for the day, a smooth sailing one...

Malaysia Harmoni

15th. May 2009 was the launching date for Malaysia Harmoni, the news portal by JIM providing news and quality reading materials for the public. Malaysia Harmoni is in Bahasa Melayu, the malay language.

Malay language readers are invited to feast their eyes at Malaysia Harmoni.

When Politicians Wag their Double Tongues…

This entry was first put up more than a year ago. However, I am posting it again today, as a reminder to myself as well as for others…Please ponder and put in some thoughts (This was an actual event, however names and places mentioned have been changed)....
Happy reading!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

“Have you been in this trade for very long?” my beloved asked.

“Yes! Since the seventies,” said he, the logo of his company emblazoned on the chest of his proudly worn uniform. His hands were pulling the cables and wirings, putting them into a hole in the wall.

“So many people, so many stories,“ J as he is known continued, “in fact, the previous member of constituent here has been calling me for assistance.”

“Is that so?” my husband said, nodding his head.

How deftly J's fingers moved, making adjustments here and there to the compact residence around Kuala Lumpur that my beloved and I had just acquired a few months prior to that day.

“Talking about your constituent’s representative, I have a story to tell,“ said J continuing the conversation.

I leaned closer to the wall while my beloved made himself comfortable near our storyteller.

“The member of constituency for this area was an old friend of mine. We came from the same kampung. Then worked in the same company. His position was somewhat lower than mine because of his mediocre education background. But then, after a few years, he got promoted to the post of assistant manager because of his connections and involvements in a once dominant and influential political party. I regarded that as his lucky streak and a gift from God.”

“One day, this old friend of mine whom I call Mat came to see me. He said that he was going to contest for a seat in the elections. If he won, he much desired to remain staying in the slums. He also promised to keep on using his old banger and to keep to his words serving the people in his constituency. Finally elections result were out and sure enough he won! Happily too, I shared his days of triumph."

Both my beloved and I were raptly listening to his words.

“Not long after that, I received a phone call from Mat, requesting me to upgrade and repair the wiring systems in a bungalow which he has just moved into only a few days after winning the elections. I was taken aback. He was eating his own words. But because he was my friend, I gave him the benefits of the doubt and lent my hand. I was surprised too when I glimpsed a brand new Mercedes at the porch of his ‘mansion’. I was actually thinking about what he said earlier on before the elections. About his promises.”

"One day, I went to settle my bills and then to my dismay I found out that my car had been clamped and taken away by the council. My attempts to appeal for a reduction was unsuccessful unless I could get hold of a letter of assistance from the Head of the Municipal Council or the local representative. I suddenly remembered my old friend and so, off I went to his office. I was told by his assistant that Yang Berhormat (YB) Mat had just left for a meeting at a place not very far from the location. I said very well! As I was confident I could easily get hold of my old friend Mat through the phone!”

“What happened then?” my husband said almost spontaneously.

“That is what I was about to tell. I was disturbed and angry!”

“For whatever reason?”

“Don't you feel that your friend might be lying when he says that he is on an overseas trip at that moment and is therefore not around?”

“Was that true?”

“Of course not! And this is what I wish to tell! God is Great and He was showing us signs. On that same night, I was walking back from prayers at the community masjid when suddenly we met! Yes! My old friend was walking in my direction. Little did he expect to see me there. Nonchalantly, I asked, “Just arrived from your overseas trip?”"

“I could sense his uneasiness in the face-to-face encounter like that. It was clearly written right across his face as he said, his voice stuttering, “Yes! Only just now!”“

"He walked on and I slowly followed in his footsteps. I was curious to know where he was going. At that time of night? I climbed onto a flight of stairs behind him and at the reception counter, asked the lady behind it, “The honourable member of constituency (YB), what is he doing here?”"

The lady receptionist said, “What honourable YB?”

“The one who came in just now, wearing the batik shirt and carrying a bag!”

“Really? Never knew that was one! He enrolled here just recently to learn English!”

“It was my turn to say “Really?” ““I was still dissatisfied and my hurt turned to anger. I would not have become hurt half as bad if he had just apologized and say that he could not help me. But he lied! He chose to lie. That was what hurt me most! I searched for his car and as soon as I found it, I punctured one tyre and then another. I was thinking if I let loose only one, he could simply replace it with the spare one. That was why I did for both. I felt much better and left for home.”

"Later in the night, I received a call. From Mat! Who else? He said, “Please come! Help needed! I have two flat tyres!”

"I calmly replied! “I am awfully sorry for I am in Singapore right now! Remember when we met just now? I was on my way to the airport!”

My husband and I pursed our lips in a twisted smile.

“That was it! For a long time, I have always abhorred the way certain people manage things. They tend to forget who they are and where they come from! Not respecting the peoples’ wishes. This is especially so for some who rose in their ranks not because of their capabilities and sound knowledge but because of other things…lobbying is one..I was simply too frustrated. It was largely because I knew Mat very well. I knew his family, his children, his ex-wife! Yes! Ex! Not only did he lie and broke his promises. Moved house, changed his car…worst of all, dumped his old wife for someone new! If he could lie to me, his old friend then what more to others?” said J letting go his floodgates of anger and hurt.

My husband and I were too dumbstruck to speak. We could only exchange glances to each other.

PS. The present situation at my homestate makes me want to puke!