A Breath of Fresh Air...

It has been such a long time that I have not updated this blog of mine. So much paper work. The never-ending number of theses to be read as an external and internal examiner. As soon as I completed, then another arrived... Postgrads to supervise and to stand in during their vivas…

Pressures of living up to be an academic in a university chosen to spearhead the APEX programme is really taking its toll…And most recently, we thought that ever since USM has been upgraded to APEX status (for information on this, it is here and here) then the number of undergraduates would be reduced. That was what we thought..until last week. The new enrolment in September 2011/2012 session for our school (School Electrical & Electronic Engineering – NOT other schools) would be at least 200! Horror! That would be just like the small creeks Down Under bursting at their brims and river banks – hence the devastations and floodings…How could and should people like us in the department keep up? We would be stretched to the limits. God forbid, please…

Just recently, I had 1 more Ph.D student registering under my wings – I could not remember agreeing to this in the first place. While in a state of blurriness, another one showed up at my office doorstep, showing me his registration letter as yet another of my student….But of course, it is not always grey skies. Once in a while, it is so heartening when you supervise students from Palestine especially – with their good manners and sincere prayers (doa) for Allah's blessings bestowed upon their supervisors whenever we try to help as best we can…(will share some of these stories later…)

And so, when a group of young girls (from various colleges around Tg. Malim, Banting, Shah Alam and KL) decided to come over up north for a little bit of sharing and to spend the night filled with spiritual and motivational activities – one of the initiatives under IKRAM (formerly known as JIM), I was thrilled. They were more than welcomed to my humble abode in Ipoh. All 30 of them will be flying off to Germany, Ireland and Australia (doing Engineering, Medicine and Biotech) as early as July, as late as January 2012.

I was glad too that an ole' friend of mine, Yati could also spare some time with us over the weekend. We had such wonderful moments, sharing our past, more than 30 years’ of experiences in the UK (I was in Sheffield while Yati was in Cardiff). The good and not so good ones..The good ones – for them to emulate, the not so good ones – hopefully these new breed would be wary of…

The whole bunch of girls had some morning activities..some tazkirah (reminders presented in a chicken soup for the soul kind of way..using the multi media - these young folks of today are ever so creative, I learnt something new then and there...) and I shared my motivational talk which I usually do share with my own first year students once in a while. About focusing on their target and never to lose sight of their goals, about the true meaning of success and the roadmap towards it, about discovering their full potential and then harnessing their talents….Most important thing of all is that both Yati and I stressed the importance of remembering the sacrifices of our elderly parents and kins, about preserving our own identity as Muslims and our faith – to safeguard them as precious pearls – especially out there where ‘prying hands’ are always everywhere trying to take it away from our hearts…

I have uploaded these pictures here so that these young girls will always remember the good moments that we shared together…I pray that they will accomplish all their dreams..and may Allah bestow upon them success and make things easy for them in their pursuit for knowledge…Amin.

PS. I thank my other half for making all the necessary arrangements for the instant meals (tea break, dinner and breakfast) that he purchased from the eateries around our place. In so doing, our weekend programme went smoothly without a hitch…My gratefulness to Mumtaz of UTP and Ain Nasim for making this possible. Thank you for giving us this opportunity to sow some seeds of goodness…May Allah accept our good deeds..Amin…

Caught by surpise!

Little did I know that I would be one of the subjects of entry for Madam Ainon Mohd.’s (the President of PTS Publications Sdn. Bhd.) blog ...

For Malay Language readers, the entry in her blog Universiti Terbuka PTS (or literally translated as ‘ PTS Open University’) is here.

Don’t know why…

But I do appreciate her highlighting this…even though, I think I owe it to my other half – for his ever ready attitude and willingness to send me to the venue and then pick me up at the end of the never ending workshops….Mdm Ainon's entry motivates me to continue adopting her new ideas and exploring new ventures in writing more books…

There are at times though..deep down inside, when I feel like ‘life for me is fast approaching into its twilight years’ especially sitting there amongst those young and vibrant participants at the writing workshops. However, when I recall my late father’s voice saying, “You are never too old to learn..Remember that!” then I would dismiss these little voices and instead hold on to his words – real tight…

How about you? Care to join us writers? It is never too late to make a start…Sydney Sheldon started writing his first novel at the ripe age of 52. ;-)

Nothing surpasses Allah…

My tight schedule has driven me up the wall. This blog has not been updated for weeks. However, it all seem worthwhile. The time spent, the energy driven, the efforts put into seem meaningful when success awaits you at the end of the tunnel. Even though we only managed to garner a Silver Medal at ITEX 2010 for our invention, it has cast enough happiness in our hearts as a research team.

The most important thing was that we were able to showcase our work to the public, a system that may be of use in a vast number of applications. Numerous parties have expressed their interest in developing and enhancing the basic platform. For example the Department of Irrigation and Drainage in managing the illegal sand digging at their rivers.

Today, in the STAR, there is news coverage for the press conference which was held yesterday at the main campus lake in Minden, Penang. (Read here)

Our invention is named Drosobot (Drosophila Robot). They may be deployed as a group (or swarms - in technical terms) to enable contour mapping of lakebeds, rivers and dams. The cost incurred is substantially reduced, extra manpower is not necessary while the results of the mappings may be looked at there and then (in real time). Compare this to the available equipment system in the market, (originating from where else but the West?) which is so exorbitant (costs RM 200,000 to buy, if rented then the charges would be RM8,000 per kilometer; it also needs to have at least 4 people to man the equipment)and most importantly, the results of the mappings are not instant - only made available 2 weeks later.

The most interesting fact that we discover is that, lake contour mappings are not available as yet. (We did not know this when we first embarked on the project). Only land and the sea (for seafarers). Considering the vast number of lakes available in Malaysia, we are glad that we are able to contribute in making contour mappings of lakes to be easily done. Amongst our interested visitors (in charge of maintenance of one of the dams) during ITEX 2010 expressed his gratitude and appreciation because he knew and understood the problems. He has been doing the job manually.

We were inspired by the foraging and searching movements of the fruit fly (scientific name being Drosophila Melanogaster) to be adopted as the intelligent algorithm integrated in the school of autonomous water surface vehicles. Adopting the algorithm means that the movements of the group of robots become faster and optimized in the contour mappings as they glide across the surface of waters.

Did not Allah give us mankind the power to think? Nature and its happenings may be used as a source of inspiration for creative inventions. Creatures - be them large or as small as the ants, bees, all have their specialties. If only we take the time to contemplate and use our minds to focus. Thinking has been advocated by our Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) in a Hadith:

“Purposive thinking (tafakkur) for an hour is better than a year’s worship.”

The humble fly which we would not even look with one eye has a lot to offer – only if we stop, think and observe. The tiny creatures go about their ways according to the ordained paths set by its Creator. However, that is all they can do. It is only us – mankind who has the ability to explore, formulate and venture further than the other creatures. For we are bestowed with powerful brains by our Creator to think and relate. However, there is only one thing that we as mankind should do and never forget i.e. we must remember that no matter how great and high we soar, we can never surpass His powers.

".. of knowledge it is only a little that is communicated to you, (O men!)" Al Isra’: 85

Unto Allah belongeth All Praises…

Brunei..captivating..sustaining...

“Have you tried this?” said Haji Z, the representative from Brunei Government, sitting across our dinner table. In his hand, was a small piece of bamboo pried open but not quite till the end; his fingers deftly and skillfully twisting the bamboo stick; at the end of which was a gooish, whitish substance, resembling our home made glue.

“No, we haven’t,” said Dr. Y my colleague from Universiti Utara Malaysia.

‘But we will surely try,” said I, laughing, poking my fork at the varieties of kerabu (vegetable and seafood delicacy) in my plate.

“Yes, I hope you will. This used to be the staple food for our older generations, when food was scarce. It is called Ambuyat, to be eaten with the sauce," pointing to the small bowl of sidedish near his plate.

“It is very filling. And the sauce is the most important. Because the ambuyat itself is tasteless as it is made from sago flour and hot water. You have to be really skilled to be able to make it to the right consistency,” said J smilingly, the officer from AITI Brunei.

Haji Z went on, “Our country has started to implement self-sustaining projects. For a start, to produce our own rice. And the tender, roasted lamb that is in your plate is our own born and bred. And also the beef. But of course, the original herd were imported from New Zealand.” His eyes were twinkling as he looked at the difficulty I was having in twisting my own ambuyat. I had to use both my hands.

“Laila – that is the name of the rice genus. Harvested three times a year. We just had the first harvest not long ago,” added J, grinning with pride.

“Very impressive,” said Dr. Y, “unlike our country. My state which is Kedah, is supposedly to be known as the Rice Bowl of Malaysia. Most of the plots of padi fields no longer exist as they are slowly turning into housing estates.”

My trip to Brunei was a very fulfilling one. I was representing Universiti Sains Malaysia - USM (alone), while the other proponent was Universiti Utara Malaysia - UUM (Dr. Y and her research officer). We were the only two other proponents from Malaysia, besides a big telco company, which did not send any representative as their proposal has always been accepted for the third year running. For UUM, it was their second time (still needing some modifications to their proposal) while for USM, this is our first time and I have a lot of things to pick and gather.

Apart from learning the basic techniques on how to prepare appropriate proposals in order to secure research grants from outside Malaysia (i.e. for this meeting at ASEAN level), I also learnt a lot of other things. Mainly, I have never set foot on this captivating country.

As a start, I was already impressed with the doa at the beginning of the journey on Brunei Royal Airlines. It was a heartrending doa (before a Muslim undertakes a journey, he or she is recommended to make doa or prayers for safe journey) recited on the screen of the aircraft before take-off. I said Amin..Amin..and Amin with all my heart.

The moment my feet touched the airport, I was again mesmerized by the Jawi letterings on the welcoming guide posts greeting me. Then at the hotel in the middle of the city of Bandar Seri Begawan, I noticed the same letterings on every store, even on the one and only McD, KFC as well as others. How this country has been able to elevate the standard of Jawi as it is now. (I sigh, when I think of this lost opportunity back home).

Then, at night, tired from the meeting the whole day, we, the delegates, were brought to an exclusive restaurant owned by a dignitary of Brunei, just across the Kampung Air (The Water Village).

Spectacular views – the lights coming from the heritage houses were playing in the shadows, on the surface of the undulating waves of the sea under the moonlight. As though dancing to the harmonious traditional music from young lads, clad in their traditional attire. We were really entertained. It was so beautiful…

On the way back to the hotel, I was taken in by the beauty of the quietness and serenity of the surroundings. I did not see youths philandering, (lepak-lepak). No improper dressing. Funky clad and punks; there was none. I guess most of the youngsters are at home, safe with their family.

And the drivers? We Malaysians could and should learn from them about road ethics. Here, if you are a pedestrian, you are the king of the road, the cars will stop in their tracks to let you cross the road, no matter how busy. (It reminds me of Canada.) Try doing that back home? (You risk being called, “You crazy? Lived long enough?” or the worst – you get yourself killed!)

Another plus point - the TV programmes, very Islamically inclined and knowledge enriching. Not so much of the worship of hedonistic culture that is rampant with ours back home…

How can we learn and implement these things to our beloved country? Please share with me….

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

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…

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.

Third book project by Wanita JIM

This is the front page cover of JIM Women’s section’s newest writing project, “Mum – My First School” written in the malay language. The first project was “How I Finally Wore the Hijab” in the year 2003 while the second book, “Why I Work” was produced last year.

24 writers (men and women JIM members, nationwide) contributed to this collection of articles about their respective mothers. How these mothers raised us, through thick and thin and eventually made us become what we are today, despite their individual imperfections. It is hoped that these reading materials would be useful as guidelines for would-be and young mothers, reminders for those who are already mothers themselves and a ‘chicken soup’ style of reading material for general members of society.

I contributed one article in this endeavour about my late mum. She was married at the tender age of 14. How, despite being illiterate (even us siblings were not aware of this fact until we could ourselves, read at school), as she did not have the priviledge to go to school, being orphaned at the age of 2, she was able to face the world and accomplish many things. Memorising great recipes and preparing the delicious meals, becoming a renowned seamstress in her community and sewing our own clothes, involving in a small scale business to sustain the family expenditure and many more. In a way, her perseverance and her strength to prevail in times of hardship, to be ready to face challenges, and especially her passion in trying new things, is embodied in me.

There is something special in each and every one of our mothers. Therefore, take great care of them, your parents and appreciate their presence while they are still around. When they are gone, never forget to pray and make doa for them.

May their good deeds be rewarded by Him and may they be placed with those who do good…Amin, Ya Rabbul Alamin.

PS. Today marks a special occasion for us. My lifetime partner, Ir. Haji Mohd. Sofian Ahmad who has always been a beacon of light in my life, always been so supportive in whatever I do, is 52 today…Over the weekend, Little Nuha Insyirah has presented him with a huge hug, two kisses i.e. on each cheek and a cute card written “Happy Birthday, Tok Wan!” (Tok Wan is Grandad in the malay language).

With Writer Friends…Kuala Lumpur International Book Fair 2009

“I am Hamdy!” said someone as soon as I arrived at the stall.

“So, you are Hamdy! We have been emailing and motivating each other through mailing lists and text messages,” said I, looking at Pak Utih, another writer friend and a qualified trainer, sitting in front of a pile of his book, "Suami Memimpin, Isteri Mengurus" (The Husband Leads, the Wife Manages). He was seated at the other end of the table.

“Yes! He may sound very gruff and brutal in his emails but actually he has a very kind heart!” said Pak Utih, casting a broad smile. Hamdy roared with laughter.

We were at the JIMedia stall, or to be more exact, Readnetworks. A publishing company owned by Bro. Wan Mohd. Zukri or better known as Abu Syamil, who is also in charge of publishing quality reading materials for JIMedia.

“Where is Roha?” I asked.

Roha is our Sis who was given the responsibility to compile our latest book project – the third one, entitled, “Ibu Madrasah Pertamaku” (Mother – My First Lesson Provider) under Women’s Wing for JIM. I have contributed one chapter in this third endeavour. The first project which was entitled, “Bagaimana Akhirnya Saya Bertudung” (How I Finally Wore the Hijab), 2 chapters of my writings were included there and while I have given one chapter for the second effort, “Mengapa Saya Bekerja” (Why I Work), both of which were compiled by Madam Ir. Hajjah Endok Sempo M. Tahir.

“I think, she cannot make it today,” said Hamdy or his real name is Haron Mohd.Yusof, writer of Rancang Hidup Rancang Wang (Plan your Life and Your Money) and many more.

Just then, there was the sound of greetings from another writer friend of ours, Dr. Harlina Haliza Siraj, leader of Women’s Wing, JIM Central Committee, whose face has graced Malaysian TV and newspapers.

We had our pictures taken with our editor, Mr. Wan Muhammad Wan Ibrahim, a youthful father of three, who works full time with JIM and another with Dr. Har.

“I want to stay low in profile,” said Hamdy with a chuckle, disappearing behind a pillar.

I shook my head.

And there we were that Saturday, the 25th. of April 2009. Sitting and promoting each and every one of our books at the stall. Our books i.e. mine "Jadi, Anda Mahu Menulis"(So, You Want to Write?), Dr. Har "Citra Wanita Kontemporari"(Aspirations of Contemporary Women), Pak Utih "Suami Memimpin Isteri Mengurus"(Husband Leads Wife Manages), Hamdy "Rancang Hidup Rancang Wang Remaja"(Plan Your Life, Plan Your Money for Young Adults) was published just the night before. Very fresh from the oven! We sat, signing our books with readers and getting know them for about a few hours.

It certainly was fun!

My newest book....

Snippets from the book...

What Inspired This Book to be Written?

In February 2009, I attended a workshop – "Effective Writing for Mass Media", organized by the Media Committee, JIM HQ in Kuala Lumpur. While we were there, a group of trainers, including myself, sat and discussed about the possibility of having the materials in our workshops to be made into modules.

On my way back home up north, my mind was stirred up by one fact which surfaced during one of the workshops which I conducted at Kota Bharu, Kelantan. The chairperson, Madam Alawiyah Abdullah who headed the organizing committee of the workshop on behalf of JIM (Women’s Section) Kelantan put forward a question to all of us.

“Are we aware that the second Surah (after the first Surah Iqra’ – meaning ‘Read’) that was sent down by God was entitled The Pen (Al Qalam)?” and then she began reciting the verse:

“NuN*, the pen, and what they (the people) write, you have attained a great blessing from your Lord; you are not crazy.” (Al Qalam: Verse 1)

Madam Alawiyah then went on to say, “This verse is the 68th surah in the al Quran and has 52 verses altogether. Look at how great the emphasis is on writing, in the life of a Muslim,” said she, reminding us all who were present during the workshop.

I was jolted too! I suddenly remembered that I had come across this fact years ago but I had forgotten about it entirely.

And so, I was very motivated and keen to start on this book project. I began compiling the materials which I had emphasized again and again to participants of my writing workshops. And all the little but valuable experiences which I had jotted down throughout the course of my own journey as a writer….

.............................................................

The initial intention in writing this book was that I wanted it to be of everyday use, to be always referred to, as a fountain of ideas for those who aspire to be writers and wish to live as one.

This book is about writing. Therefore, as a reader and an aspiring writer, do not confine yourself to just reading the pages. Instead, use it often. Flick through it, roll your eyes over the words, move your fingers across the pages, fold over its edges so you may remember where you suddenly pick up some important points. Make full use of the book. Let the pages be limp with use. Then, don’t forget to write!

Dr. Umi Kalthum Ngah

PS. This book is a 90 page book, written in Bahasa Melayu, the Malay Language. Price is RM 10.00. Published in conjunction with the Kuala Lumpur International Book Fair 2009. Will be available from Wednesday 22nd. April 2009 onwards, at the JIMedia Booth KLIBF'09, L2 & L3 (booth beside ReadNetwork Booth) directly in front of the main entrance KLIBF'09 (http://klbookfair.com/index.php/)

Sustaining the environment’s natural beauty (2)…

“Have you heard of Beatrix Potter, the author?” said the English lady, full of enthusiasm.

“Yes! I love her books! Books written for children. And her drawings! Simply enchanting!” I said.

“Indeed! She is the lady I am telling you about! Imagine the path that led her to eventually make a turning point in her life. It took on a new beginning and a new meaning from then on.”

“A new beginning?” said I, a bit puzzled.

“Yes! Something happened which made her decide to start a new life at the Lake District. The beautiful place preserved as it is, till now!”

“What did she do?” I said, turning in my seat, so I could look straight at the english lady’s face.

“She followed her heart and moved to the Lake District. Settled down at a quiet place called Hill Top Farm. Then, because the region was threatened to be taken over by industrialists keen to develop the surroundings, she involved herself actively in the meetings held in the midst of the community. When she realized that the farmers were in grave danger of being wiped out of their livelihood, because of their poverty, she began purchasing the plots of land. She even paid the farmers to work on the pieces of land she acquired so they may continue with their farming.”

“She has a good heart,” I said.

“Indeed! She bought more than 4,000 acres of land through the royalty which she received from her published books. When she died, she bequeathed all her takings to the National Trust, an indepedent body entrusted to preserve the beauty of the area. Up to this present moment in time,” said the english lady sitting beside me in the coach.

“No wonder, the Lake District is as beautiful as it was in her times and remains a popular tourist spot to this day.”

“Exactly! Why don’t you watch the movie Miss Potter. A film based upon her life!”

I was quiet for a while. It has never crossed my mind that through writing, a woman can single handedly sustain a portion of our beautiful earth. Beatrix Potter has left a legacy. To be enjoyed by future generations, for years to come.

I got hold of the DVD during my sabbatical leave that year. These words by Miss Potter continue to haunt me. I would like to share them with you here:

“There's something delicious about writing the first words of a story. You can never quite tell where they'll take you. Mine took me here, where I belong.”

~Beatrix Potter~ (1866-1943)
(quote from the film ‘Miss Potter‘)

(PS. The first image was taken from here.)

Sustaining the environment’s natural beauty (1)…

“Beautiful, isn’t it?” said the English lady sitting beside me.

Jolted from my daydreaming, these words gushed from my lips, “Yes! Captivating! The Peak District has hardly changed at all!” My eyes roved to the lady, who may have been in her late thirties.

“You have been here before?” said the lady sounding very interested.

“Yes! I used to study here about 30 years ago. It is only now that I am able to come back.”

“You are very lucky!” she said.

We were on our way from Manchester to Sheffield. The train tracks between the two cities were under repair. Passengers going down south from Manchester needed to board a coach from there. Then change onto trains midway i.e. upon reaching Sheffield. Along the journey, the coach meanders along the mountainous beauty of the Peak District. I was mesmerized by the exquisite scenery. The undulating fields, foliage and living things.

“You, a tourist?” asked the lady again.

“Not actually. I am on leave but still engaged in some work,” said I. Noting the frowns on her forehead, I let out a laugh and then said, “I am on leave from my normal work back home but am presently doing some research here in this country of yours. How about you?”

“Is that so? I am on my way back home. Actually, I was attending a Christian convention until I received a phone call saying that my mum has suddenly taken ill. So, I decided to cut short on my stay and head straight home,” said the lady.

“Where to?”

“To Scarborough.”

“Oh! That reminds me of a song which I used to listen to when I was little,” said I jokingly.

“Yes! Scarborough Fair!” said the lady, laughingly tossing her hair around.

“Parsely sage, rosemary and thyme. By Simon and Garfunkel, right?” I said gleaming a broad smile.

“You should come to the place!” said she.

“If I have the time, then certainly I would try to.”

“There is one more place that you should pay a visit,” said the woman. This time, in earnest.

“Where would that be?”

“Lake District. A real beauty! Well preserved. Just like it was, a hundred years ago.”

“Yes! I was there once. But not this time though.”

“You want to know who played the most important part of sustaining and preserving the place?” said the English lady, turning her body around in her seat, as though wanting to tell me, face to face.

“Not really sure, but I certainly would love to!” said I, showing my interest.

“A woman. An author of children’s books. Here is the story…”

(To be continued...)

Bahulu, anyone?

The presentation was about to begin. Displayed onto the white screen, from the LCD projector.

“Bahulu? What has this got to do with engineering?” hissed a male student, who walked past from behind me.

I turned my head and gave him an icy stare. He shot his way and disappeared through the door of the prresentation lab.

“Right! Let us get started,” I said.

My two students i.e. one named Ng was fumbling with the keyboard of the PC while the other by the name of Nor, was straightening her clothes. Both were were standing a few feet from the wall.

And the presentation began with Nor saying:

“Bahulu is a traditional delicacy amongst the Malays in Malaysia. It has now been a favourite amongst the other races too i.e. the Chinese and the Indians. Especially during festivities. Apparently, the sweet cake originated from a place called Bangkahulu, Southern Sumatera, Indonesia and was brought into Malaya by the Javanese. Originally, it was pan-shaped, just like the pizza because the dough was baked using the pan-cover. Another version as to why the dish got its name was, it created by the people who stayed high up where the rivers began (‘hulu sungai’). The delicacy was often brought by them whenever they came visiting their kins at the various other places. The people then would often say, gifts from up the river (‘buah tangan dari hulu’). Hence, its name.”

Ng elaborated further saying that although the sweet cakes used to be prepared the traditional way, it is now much more convenient using the modern methods. Using machines and ovens. And there are much more flavours available. Even strawberries and cappuccinos!

“We could not find any resources where the bahulu was prepared traditionally. So we had to settle with a small scale industry in a remote kampung up north. We have videos of how the bahulu is prepared the modern way. Here it is!” said Nor.

Our eyes were transfixed on the wall, enjoying the video.

I asked, “You want to know how it was prepared the traditional way? My late mum used to sell this bahulu and also other traditional kuih nearly every day, to earn some extra income.”

Ng and Nor nodded their heads.

So I began, “I used to help my mum prepare bahulu when we were little. We took turns beating the eggs and sugar in a huge ceramic jar using a big egg beater until our hands were sore. Because, as time passed, the dough became heavier and heavier. But when she started baking, all the sores were gone. That was when the real fun began. Her oven was special. She used a clay pail with fire from charcoal and husks at the bottom. Then an uncovered pot with sand underneath it was put in the pail. Meanwhile, iron casts with different shapes were oiled and the mixture of dough was mixed with fried flour. Yes! Fried beforehand on a big wok for a few hours a few days earlier. That was why mum’s bahulu was so mouth watering, fragrant and long lasting! The dough was then dropped onto the holes. Then in it goes into the pot. The whole thing was then covered using a cut-out side portion of a large, clean biscuit tin. More burning coal and husks were put on top. The fragrance which emanates indicates that the bahulu is cooked. The first few rounds of bahulu would disappear into our tummies i.e. the ‘workers’!”

Nor’s brows were raised. Ng was mesmerized too.

“Well then! What have you learnt while you were doing this project?” I asked.

“A lot!” said Ng.

“Tell me! I want to know” said I.

“First of all, how to get into the kampung to talk to people while trying to find information,” said Nor.

“I learnt the name of the kuih. Before, I only knew how to eat them, without even knowing its name and its origins,” said Ng.

“Good! You two speak from your hearts!”

Ng said, “We made a survey. Most of the participants prefer the modern bahulu. Because of the variety of flavours available.”

“Whom did you ask?” I said, frowing.

“Just us, amongst students from first years to final years,” said Nor.

“You should have included the staff. Like me for example, in the survey. Then you would have came up with a different conclusion. Nothing beats bahulu prepared the traditional way. If only you had the chance to taste them!”

They grinned and then they delivered a surprise! A box of bahulu from them as a gesture of thanks to me as their supervisor for the subject SHE 101.

Last night, after dinner, I brought out the box of bahulu. My other half seemed to enjoy them very much because this morning, when I peeked through at the container, there were only six left!

PS. SHE 101 is a 2 unit course entitled Ethnic Relations. Students would have to complete their projects within 3 weeks.

On Science and Technology Fiction Novel Workshop..

Little did I know that my presence at the Science and Technology Fiction Writing Workshop up north in Alor Setar for the whole of last Saturday, would leave me all worked up and full of excitement.

I had wanted to attend it purely because I thought I could use some pointers and ideas for future writings. Then I realized that the organizers (Kumpulan Utusan and University Teknologi Malaysia) had something else up their sleeves. The workshop was a sort of preparation for writers who would want to be contesters for their Writing Competition, i.e. Science and Technology Fiction Novel Competition. The prizes are really tantalizing!

First prize winner will be awarded RM 15,000 plus equally interesting amounts for others down the line. All that I knew was that the whole idea of the workshop was to bring about the awareness of the importance of Science and Technology in the society – which was why I was motivated to sign up my name about a month earlier.

I learnt many things though…from the various speakers. These are things that I would like to share…

Dr. Amida@Hamidah bt. Abdul Hamid or more affectionately known as Anis (a retired professor in the field of Philosophy, Rhetoric and Thinking Skills from Universiti Malaya, who is still actively giving lectures and evaluating manuscripts) in her presentation entitled “You Want to Write Science and Technology Fiction Novels?”

Ethos, Pathos, Logos are the basic axis for any form of writing, originating from Greek philosophy.

Ethos means our capability as writers. Therefore, our empowerment in the particular language that we will be writing. It should be very powerful then!

Pathos is our target. Who the written material is intended for. Teens? Adults? Or people in the specialized fields that the article is written for.

Logos – is our material i.e. manuscript or articles. In this case, our manuscript would have the approprioate plots, with elements of science and technology.

Only thing is, we should open up the three basic elements to include Our Creator as the origin of the whole written material i.e. a manuscript which would awaken a sense of greatness of God amongst readers.

Prof. Dr. Ahmad Zaki Abu Bakar (senior professor from UTM, Skudai, winner of various awards for his creations Dendam Siber and Wira Persona Avatari) shared his experiences in his slot “How to Fictionalize Science and Technology”

Your creation should be based on knowledge, imagination and manipulations of those two. Scientific knowledge is systematic, originating from research, which is tested and proven.

Hard Si-Fi –physical and biological sciences. Soft Si-Fi – social sciences. It is suggested that manuscripts produced should be based upon Hybrid Si-Fi – a combination of both thoughts/ emotions and scientific facts.

Various explorations may be done by writers i.e. self- explore, explore the different worlds (space travel, virtual world), culture and cross culture, time zones, dimensions. In fact, creative writers may coin some new terms and words!

Mohamed Saleeh Rahaad (Vice President, Society of National Writers, Malaysia or PENA, who is also a senior lecturer of Arts, Universiti Malaya) has this to say in his talk “Values, Ideology and Literary Structures in Science Fiction”.

Contents – materials and good plot. Form – approach and Ideology.

Must be in balanced in all aspects. A scientific and technological based novel should not be merely entertaining. It has to possess some form of ideological values as an alternative to combat the advent of western based values which are psychologically imposed on passive minds unabatedly and silently.

We have enough of onslaughts from these western culture, silently colonizing our minds. The Killing Fields, Tarzan, Robinson Crusoe, Tom and Jerry, Raiders of the Lost Ark, King Soloman’s Mines, Rambo, Black Hawke Down to name a few. Our youngsters hearts especially (as passive readers and viewers fo films), are made to accept indirectly that “West is Best!” i.e. ruled by consent.

The Killing Fields, Black Hawke Down, shows the heroic deeds of the American soldiers in Asia, whereas the fact is that, the Americans lost their grip in Vietnam. Malaysian military forces had more rigour in their operational handlings of Somalia. Tom and Jerry cartoon has cleverly entwined the concept of Zionism. Black cat (anything coloured and black) are bad, whereas the tiny mouse, even though small in size (like Israel), is smart. Anything bright coloured are good.

The message of white supremacy i.e. white skinned heroes are civilized and great, if compared to natives. Tarzan embodies this concept, a white skinned man, having the capability to conquer beasts of the forest, including the black skinned natives. Even his wife Jane is white. Why not just marry a native woman of the forest? Was it because of the fear of tainting his white skinned blood?

Citizens of the third world are liabilities (white man’s burden). Colonial writers of Malaya Anthony Burgess in his book ‘Somerset Mom’, has local characters sidelined, ‘made dumb’, voices unheard. Even if they spoke, their voices are those without any significance. White man play tennis, while the locals just watch from the sides of the courts, only having the capability to pick up the balls once in a while.

On the other hand, folk tales having elements of confining the minds of locals to stupidity (Lebai Malang, Pak Pandir) were republished and made available in all the libraries throughout Malaya in the 1920’s. Stories of local warriors with their fighting spirits were subjugated and hidden away. It was said that thousands of such manuscripts were sunkened in a ship? However, such manuscripts are available today at the University Leiden (Netherlands) where thousands of manuscripts describing the greatness of local warriors struggles against the colonials.

Therefore, to fight we need similar weapons, cultural weapons. Weapons that are not confined to creativity but must also be intellectually sound. And this is where scientific and technology fiction novels may play their roles.

A creative scientific novel should not only be entertaining but also be able to excite and enrich the minds of local readers with up-to -ate and futuristic scientific knowledge interleaved with psychological and ideological principles in the narration.

Madam Nor Azah Abdul Aziz, Senior Editor Utusan Publications & Distributors Sdn. Bhd. in her presentation “Whoosing on in the Competition Track”:

The competition is analogous to a high speed track. There are regulations that need to be observed. Whatever, focus on winning!

In order to win, you need to –accelerate, accelerate, accelerate!

Hence, you need a good vehicle – your high speed car. Must be in really good shape and your endurance as the driver (in this case, you as a writer). Need to make preparations. Brainstorming and research!

Winners, besides acquiring tropies, monetary gains, will have their work packaged i.e. published, royalty every year, promotions in magazines, newspapers, electronic media, book session on TV, book stores nationwide etc.

Isn’t this the ultimate dream of an aspiring writer? To have this mileage in his/her career as a writer? More coverage means more publicity and more opportunites to get across the messages in their writings. Therefore, more readers!

The aspects that a manuscript would be judged i.e. manuscripts will be scrutinized upon the elements in earlier talks i.e. language, theme, characters, strengths, ideologies, infrastructures (even though manuscripts should embody all these integrated as a whole package).

“Remember! All manuscripts should reach us before the 31st of Ogos 2009!” said Madam Norazah.

“My mind is about to explode!” said S suddenly, who was sitting beside me.

A lawyer by profession, S had attended a writing workshop which I conducted at Seberang Perai Selatan 2 months ago. She was the one who informed me of this workshop and together we went. She drove while I sat beside her all the way to Alor Setar.

“Really? So, something in your mind has been stirred up?” said I, in jest.

”Yes! I have got ideas. So many ideas! Can’t wait to start working on them!” she said gleefully, rubbing the palms of her hands.

While I too, could not help brushing away the visions, flooding up my own mind.

(For more details of the competition:http://www.penerbit.utm.my/www.mybooks.com.my )

The Writing Group....

Today marks my first attempt to form a writing group. As today is a public holiday, in conjunction with the auspicious occasion of our beloved Prophet Muhammad’s (peace be upon him) birthday, what a day to start this group too!

As was planned a week ago, Kr and Nm came over at mid afternoon. I did not have the time to prepare anything. But then, plain Earl Grey Tea and Hershey’s Kisses will do!

We sat in the elevated area of my weekend home in Ipoh, the dining section, overlooking the lush greenery. This used to be my favourite spot some time ago, i.e. before we had to move further up north to Parit Buntar, where my working home is.

It was still drizzling outside and the air was cool and beautiful when I began to teach the two of them the basics of writing. Theirs will be a short write-up each as contributions to our up and coming project entitled Semurni Kasih Ayah (Father's Love - Endless and Tender), a project of JIM Perak Branch.

Points were thrashed out and put down onto paper. The framework was laid down. Next, would be the draft, followed by editing and subsequently, the refinement process.

The first few minutes was quite baffling. But as the minutes ticked by, my two mentees were writing away. Their fingers hooked on a pen, moving deftly across the white sheets, with every flow of events awakening in their minds. The warm tea and delicious chocolate kisses may have something to do with it? Maybe!

If only I could gather more aspiring writers to join in! Then the project would be a lot more faster than now. As it is, very slow progress. But still, this is better than nothing. And I am certainly not complaining.

Writing groups are good in the sense that you may learn from each other. To get the ideas going strong. Also to motivate and nudge each other along as the process of writing is very lonesome and you may become weary along the road not often taken.

You can form your own writing group too! Wherever you may be. Or maybe you would care to join me? Next time, perhaps!

Media Statement by Pertubuhan Jamaah Islah Malaysia (JIM)

JIM MEDIA STATEMENT CONDEMNING THE ISRAELI ATTACKS ON GAZA, PALESTINE

Pertubuhan Jamaah Islah Malaysia (JIM) strongly condemns the onslaught of barbaric atrocities, rendered by the Zionist regime, towards the people of Palestine. This, yet another brutal wave of attacks are uncalled for and unsurpassed ever since the regime began to besiege the people of Palestine from their rightful homeland in the year 1948 and then occupied Baitul Maqdis in the year 1967. The people of Gaza had underwent undescribable pain and suffering since 18 months ago as a result of the closure of its boundaries by Israel, resulting in depletion of food and medical supplies, and as if that is not enough, the ongoing onslaught of Israel forces, equipped with their F-16 jet fighters and Apachee helicopter on innocent civilians are indeed inhumane!

The number of civilians killed in Gaza has surmounted to 300 people while 700 have been injured as casualties. This number will continue to rise as more people are trapped under the houses ruined under mortar attacks. Up until this moment in time, there are no signs indicating that these attacks from Israel will cease, as stipulated by their spokesman to the President of France yesterday. In fact, the military forces of Israel have been gearing their efforts at the frontiers of Gaza, ready to pounce their biggest attack ever at any time now. More destruction and death can be expected amongst the people of Gaza.

JIM rejects Israel’s claim that its most recent attack is an act of security measure and to protect itself. This is yet another lie concurred by Israel. For the past 6 months, Israel has been planning the attack, in fact, as soon as the period for ceasefire expired on the recent 19th of December. The missile attacks by the people of Palestine was used as an excuse to justify the attack by Israel. The excuse by this illegal nation of Israel is blatantly inhumane. The Palestinian missile attack were acts of retaliation to the endless provocations dangled by the Israeli armed forces including the occupation of the provinces in the Gaza district during the commencement of ceasefire agreement.

JIM wants to call upon the attention of people of global ranks and international standings to the fact that, the attacks were executed towards the last few days of the school holidays in Gaza, glaringly indicate that the zionist regime has treacherous motives to actually maximize their target victims amongst civilians, especially women and children who are residing within their homes. These attacks have also been seen to focus upon police stations, vicinities of which were nearby the bigger cities. This also clearly shows their intentions to hurt and kill as many civilians as possible in the exercise.

JIM urges the people of Malaysia to be wary of the western media which are controlled by the zionists, and also the statements by the leaders of the US, Israel, Egypt and powers that be of Palestine who are reeling away from discussing the real issues and hiding facts about the struggles of the people of Gaza and Palestine. These statements from them do not paint the true picture and are always one sided. JIM wants to invite Malaysians to look and learn about the basic facts and view this issue from more holistic perspectives, from factual and historical factors, basic human rights, freedom of speech, rights of women, children and the elderly or on whatever humanistic grounds that exist today. While we remember the historic 31st August as our day of independence for Malaysia; in actual fact, the date 31st August 1879 B.C. was the date of the Basel Conference in Switzerland, the date whereby the movement for the establishment of the country state for the Jews was signed. This was followed by the Balfor Declaration for the realization of this. In the year 1948, the illegal state of Israel was declared altogether by the U.S.

From that moment on, Israel became the proxy state of the U.S. supremacy. In the war of 1967 between the Arabs and Israel, the military forces of Israel have overpowered Baitul Maqdis (Jerusalem) and which has resulted in the cruel seizure of lands of Palestine from its people. The onslaught of ”Jewing” Palestine lands was officially launched.

The land of Palestine has since been incarcerated by 6 million Jews as a result of this Zionist act, while the people of Palestine has been reduced to mere refugees in a land that was rightfully their own. For 60 years, the people of Palestine have been put on stakes and then drenched in warfare. They are being subjected to numerous torture and cruelty by the ruling Israelis, denied any sympathy nor compassion in their plight.

Their elderly have been shoven away from their own home and land, their men beaten, left to die or killed brutally, their women raped and mutilated, their young blasted alive, their homes wrecked, burnt down and destroyed. The Jews have adultered Masjidil Aqsa, open firing the Islamic fighters and their leaders even when they are engaged and in the middle of their prayers and are unarmed.

The people of Palestine who dream of living their lives in freedom are caught and caged, for tens of years, confined to their small, impoverished, dark holes which they call home. They are subjected to treatment akin to animals in capture, only that animals may be more humane than the Jews (May the wrath of God be upon them!).

JIM calls upon the people of Malaysia to ponder upon these facts. At present, less than a third of the children of Palestine could get to finish their basic education while less than 9% could get through until their secondary level. 73% of the people of Palestine are unemployed. More heartrending is the fact that, the number of people of Palestine who are able to eat a meal a day is only 46%. A medical officer could only treat 1,700 patients. 3 million Palestinians became convicts in the biggest bastille in the world when they surrounded by the Israeli military forces against their will by a wall, measuring 720 km by 8-12 meters high. More than 11,000 Palestinians are being imprisoned by Israel. Some, for more than 30 years.

The numerous checkpoints put up by Israel armed forces at various locations have added salt to injury to the people of Palestine. This include Palestinian women, would-be mothers at their last trimester, who when subjected to severe trauma, to the point that they deliver their babies at the checkpoints. Reports have also been received about patients left to die in ambulances while on emergency trips to the hospitals, because of unnecessary interrogations.

The people of Palestine are in utter despair. Some are refugees at camps, without clean water supply, medical aids, food and proper sanitation. Their lives are much in distraught and their sufferings never ending. For tens of years, they have been denied of their rights to be at their homeland Palestine, which is rightfully theirs. Until today, 8,250 Palestinian houses have been destroyed and they have been driven away from their own homeland. 18,031 homes have been entirely destroyed on the Western Bank and Gaza. What kind of government, humans and civilized principle have been upheld by this so-called nation of Israel?

The reality today is, Israel has barricaded the borders of Gaza and refused to open the doors for supply of food, medical aids, fuel, clean water and any form of humane intervention. As a matter of fact, the conditions faced by the people of Palestine have forced them to resort to consuming the grass growing at the roadsides as food, in order to survive. Hence, in line with the Geneva Convention, the people of Palestine have every right to defend themselves from illegal occupation of foreign forces and supremacies.

As a matter of deep concern for the people of Gaza and on solidarity grounds, JIM calls upon the Muslim ummah to conduct special prayers on a grand scale with the main intention being to awaken the important realization amongst Muslims to gear up our efforts to assist our brethren who have suffered enough and are drowned in misery in Gaza and the land of Palestine. Muslims should earnestly feel the cry for empathy and utmost concern as this issue is associated with the Holy Land of Baitul Maqdis, on whose grounds stands the blessed Masjid Al Aqsa.

JIM will continue to step up its activities and upgrade its efforts to bring about fundings and donations via Tabung Bersamamu Palestin through relentless methods, campaigns, pleas, websites, talks and sessions at schools, offices, public venues, suraus, masjids and the like.

JIM hopes to gain the support of the whole of Malaysian society whom we believe will give generously towards this cause through this stated account: Maybank 562209608847 under the name Pertubuhan Jamaah Islah Malaysia.

Moving forward, JIM urges Malaysian citizens to join hands in:

1. Conducting mass prayers (Solat Hajat) on a grand scale with the main intention to awaken the realization amongst Muslims to gear up efforts to assist our brethren who have suffered enough. What is more, the Holy Land of Batul Maqdis, on whose grounds stands the blessed Masjidi Al Aqsa, is something that is very close to our hearts as Muslims.

2.Launching and stirring up more efforts in fundings for the Palestinians through various efforts, campaigns, pleas, websites, talks and special sharing sessions at schools, offices, public venues, suraus and others.

3.Distributing leaflets and circulars in and around public places, dissipating the real and factual issues regarding Palestine.

4.Having sermons specially addressing the issues of people of Palestine and the call for their emancipation.

5.Calling upon the younger generation to equally assist us, opening their eyes about the fate and state of the Palestinians, and garnering their support through creative efforts, including sports and competitions such as footsal, Parkour demonstrations, walkathons, cyclathons and similar acitivities.

6.Voicing out our views (personal and groups) through blogs, maling-lists, alternative news media and mainstream media, international news media and newspapers, emails to the governments of the USA, the illegal nation of Israel, and the countries of the EU.

7.Capitalizing the package available in JIM on Palestinian issues whenever and wherever the need be.

8.Putting on the attire emblazoned with this issue of Palestinian, as a mark of solidarity and support for them.

9. Coming, attending and to lend support to the programme "Training of Palestinian Speakers" (TOPS) which will be held in the near future.

10. Attending mass gatherings, demonstrations, press statements events, etc. and putting on the ’Support Palestinian’ attire that may be purchased through Mr. Md. Nasir bin Tampoi, Executive Officer, JIM Central Committee Member, 014-3110628).

11. Offering oneself as a volunteer or relief aid with JIM or other NGOs to the Middle East.

Last, but not least, JIM wants to express their solemnest and most bitter sadness on the calamities and sufferings that have beseiged the people of Palestine at Gaza, at a time when the whole of the Muslim world are heralding the coming of the month of Muharram, the first month of the new year in the Muslim calendar (1430 Hijriah) and at a time when the curtains are about to fall for the year 2008, with the advent of 2009. Has this event symbolized that this new year means a never ending hardship for the people of Palestine? For these reasons, JIM urges everyone, from all strata, irrespective of race, colour, creed and kin throughout the whole of Malaysia to come forward, to speak up, and voice out, against all the atrocities and carnage that have been pummelled by the Zionist Regime, fueled with the consent given by the U.S., to be put to a stop; immediately.

Ir. Hj. Zairulshahfuddin Zainal Abidin

Vice President (International Relations)

Pertubuhan Jamaah Islah Malaysia (JIM)

02 Januari 2009 / 5 Muharam 1430H