Labels: Benazir BhuttoRemembering Benazir Bhutto...When you read the Koran, you will learn that Islam is respectful of women and honors them ... And anyone who does not -- is not a true follower of Islam. – Benazir Bhutto
Fish Out Of Water
What was to be, in my opinion, a gathering of friends @ Hard Rock Cafe turned out to be a wrap-up party. Kinky wanted to introduce me to her friends, a group of ladies presumably from media companies and high profile jobs. I shun away from the opportunity to know those attractive women. Why? Maybe because I felt really out of place. I dressed like a poly student with t-shirts and imitation shoes and the people around wore expensive shirts and don belts of designers whose names I can’t properly pronounce. I am outdated and I was just afraid to speak. I do not wish to come across as someone who is trying too hard to blend in.
I wish I was more pro-active like how Kinky has always been with my friends. I wish I was as attractive as Bimbo to have people complimenting me before they introduce themselves.
With this inferiority complex, my poor best friend had to keep on finding for me. And where was this hermit crab? Standing behind the wall beside two Filipino ladies talking about their latest catch.
What happened to me? What happened to the old me? The Amin who would flaunt himself perpetually anywhere… everywhere!
Has National Service made me so outdated and out of sync with my Public Relations skills? Or have I became too Melayu for this crowd?
Pangs of loneliness struck me at the rate I was unable to contain. I needed familiar faces. I needed familiar surrounding. I wanted to make a comeback. *Stamps feet like a little boy*
I hope this is temporary. I just want to be with my best friends. Now I feel like a loser.
Jungle Fever
I shut my eyes to the flickering lights of assorted colours. I embrace the loud music as it thumps together with my heartbeat. Surrounded by Bimbo and Deli, we showed off our moves as our eyes scanned the room in search of a potential lover.
Other than the futile manhunt, I observed people of all walks of life coming together in this arena. They stripped themselves of their normal self and adopted a character unknown to themselves. Possessed.
I freed my senses. I allowed my limbs and body to move in harmony with the hiphop beats. I feel as if I am in a zoo witnessing animals coming together. Jungle fever. Tall figures stood still, dumb struck and unable to dance. They remind me of giraffes, undeterred and nonchalant of the gyrating of bodily movement encompass. At a distance an overgrown ape disturbs the peace of a group nearby with his excessive movements, obstructing the people around him. Just beside me a group of hyenas, sat drunk and laughing at a plight of their member who has spilled beer on a passerby. A group of hawks perched on the second floor, set their eyes on beautiful preys, just waiting for the right time to sweep in and collect their kill.
I didn’t know why I was there. It must have been this jungle fever going around. Alluring me with the hopes to let myself lose and forget the anxiety within me. Yup, maybe that was the reason. Or was it mainly because Luqman was around and it has been awhile since I hang out with Bimbo.
It wasn’t in my itinerary for the day to enter that venue. I wanted to find my own sanctuary to reflect and find peace within myself. But I have to say it helped temporarily.
Oh yeah Luqman, you were a joy to look at. Safe journey home to Australia. You too Jeremy.
My First Love Story... - An Introduction Labels: Mukhsin, Yasmin Ahmad
I was in need of something deep to fill the crevasses in my heart. The gaps become apparent as the day goes by. And so…
I rented ‘Mukhsin’ – a Yasmin Ahmad Film. I watched when it first opened in Singapore and it is MUST to watch it again. 
I wanted Nostalgia, I yearned for something cultural and I needed love. This film had all of the above.
I hate writing reviews. So I am just going to put some pictures and a quote from the film.
But after watching this film there are somethings I wish for…
1) I wish I had played in the rain with my mother…
2) I wish I had a childhood playmate
3) I wish I had a bicycle moment with the person I love
4) I wish someone could have given a kite with a message on it
5) I wish I was living in a kampung… "The minute I heard my first love story,I started looking for you...Not knowing how blind I was.Lover's don't finally meet somwhere,they are in each other all along."
Hearts Of Women Labels: Feminist, Leila Aboulela, Minaret, Women
I sit in the pantry completely immersed in Leila Aboulela’s Minaret. It is a story of a Sudanese aristocrat’s daughter who moved to London, after a political coup. The aftermath of the coup left her an orphan & her twin in jail. She struggles with life in search of a living and eventually founds peace in her love for Islam.
Personally I do not know why but my recent books are mostly about women especially muslim women. Stories of oppression and misinterpretation of the Quran has become my cup of tea. I realise after reading one, I itch for more.
I’ve practically read stories of women from Iraq, Iran, Sudan & Somalia. Just some of the Islamic countries who prides themselves in leading their countries following the Islamic principles and reinstating the days of the first ummah – in the time of Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him)
After much research and gaining insights regarding the community led by our beloved Prophet, I feel as if these countries are just trying too hard. Look at the state of the people; look at the state of the women and their struggles. It feels as if their drifting further and further, never on par with the first Ummah let by our Prophet.
The misogyny of women only degrades a society. It weakens the structure of a community. I mean look at most patriarchal families and you will notice an imbalance of discipline and moral duty.
You needn’t go far… Look into the Quran and you find a whole chapter especially for women, a dedication to their existence and importance in a community.
But why do men still misinterpret and selfishly promote their misogyny.
Haven’t women breastfed the young, ensure the stability of the household & become guardians of your children. How unfair and cruel…to satisfy one’s desire to prove their patriarchal supremacy.
Call me a male feminist but we men have more to learn and understand of our other half…
PANTUN...
Found love through a traditional form of art called Pantun. A challenging mode of communication between two individuals, it acts a buffer which neutralizes the characters of both parties. It is a humble attempt in expressing true emotions and feelings that cannot be described specifically. Easy to say, it’s a long winded alternative to the common expressions of ‘I love you’ and ‘I want to spend an eternity with you’
Question:
Anak watan tidur terlena,
di atas katil yg disap sedia.
Sahaja aku menumpang sebelah,
memerhatikan si dia di sana.
Kelihatannya tenang sekali,
bagaikan bayi didodoi manja.
Aduhai sedih sekali,
kenapa tidak aku dijemput mimpi bersama?
Answer:
Sungguh sunyi suasana malam,
duduk seorang di tepi tilam.
Memikirkan kamu siang malam,
bersama siapa kamu makan malam...?
Melihat waktu baru jam dua,
berat hari meninggalkan rumah.
Hendak berjumpa teman istimewa,
pulang nanti tunggu lah saya.
Main monopoly mengguna dadu.
Main congkak tersedu-sedu.
Saya di sini mula merindu,
tanpa kamu di sisi ku.
Selamat Malam.
Haha. Such fun.
THOSE DAYS...
Take some time and walk down memory lane and you realise how far away those days are gone. And a sudden urge to relive those days is only triggered when you have these people to reminisce them with you. 
We chatted about everything from past PENTAS productions and how corrupted the tarian world is. But the essence of drama and the love for the Malay Arts still lives in our hearts.
We practically grew up together in Temasek Arts Centre, running around barefoot from one room to another, observing each other’s practice time. There was only life in TP when the malay arts group all came together for our annual production PENTAS.
Standing by the koi pond at Temasek Polytechninc, fond memories engulfed me with emotions that could only expressed through tears and neverending laughter. I could practically hear the dikir boys and girls belting it out together practicing their usual vocal pieces. Drama mates running around possessed with their new characters. My tarian girls giggled as they recall their steps for their upcoming show. The Nasyid boys finding a small corner of their own trying their best to sustain.
I miss those happening days. I guess all that doesn’t seem to exist anymore, groups with their own agenda seems to rule the kampong life we use to know. Camaraderie is just in old photos kept away in old shoe boxes.
In due time all that is remembered of this fateful group will be its unprofessional technicalities and fanciful costumes.
But nonetheless the efforts of this year’s production should not be put aside. I was not there for this year’s production but hearing from feedback, potential characters stole the show. Three cheers for them!!!
I was sad I was unable to see my girls. I managed to have glimpse of their piece in videos posted on youtube in Taiwan’s Chiang Kai Shek Airport. So near yet so far. They were beautiful. They executed the two pieces well with the best of their ability. They were practically flaunting it.
I saw bravery and passion in these girls. Their every execution was a tribute to life itself. It was a dedication to their love for the arts and their undying affair with their group. Heck about what people have to say about the choreography. It only means I have a long way to go. The girls were strong. They are a reflection of what women should be today.
I thank all of those who were there to give the girls support. The presence of the Dian dancers only proves to be a blessing! Ajitwarna’s assistance and love for my girls deserves the utmost recognition. I felt safe to know he was there for them. I have to say this with a tinge of jealousy; Kesenian Si Anak Tari would not have been great without him. I love you best friend.
Two of my special people were there to grace the occasion too. I only got to know of their attendance through pictures. I appreciated their comments and their help. Thank you curly and B.
As for Sis Ifie, Sis Syiqin, Wawa, Lina, Asyaqinah, Indah, Adliah, Diyanah and Hani I love all of you for being there for me and for the girls. It would have been perfect if all my girls were there to witness it.
And Cipah, you have to learn that when we do things it is not nice to ask for anything in return (Where is my bouquet of flowers!). I will have to say that this girl really oulled it all together for this PENTAS. She is persistent character and will do anything in her will-power to get things done. I have to say among the many subgroup heads that have come and go, she has proven to be the best and has kept the group going even in times of dire strain.
And this is especially commendable with the great relationship she has with her assistant Shahidah. It has been awhile since I’ve seen a great couple at work. They are a great example.
Sharifah Mahani and Shahidah both of you deserve two thumbs up and smack on the butt. Gggggiiiirrrrllll!!!
I got this quote from Martin Luther King:
I Detest... Labels: degrade, lazy, malays, Melayu, pemalas
1) Melayukan pemalas (Malays are lazy)
2) If there is a devil around, we follow the devil.
3) It is not that we don't wish to do it, its just that we are lazy.
4) I thought you are very 'relax', never thought you will be angry.
These were the nonsensical, blasphemous excuses my men gave me whenever I caught them doing something wrong. Frankly, I feel its whole lot of bull.
The debate we was about executing our duty well was a whole lot of crap. It had no basis and with such excuses being uttered, I feel it was a waste of time even trying to make them realise their mistake.
Initially I wrote a long entry regarding an incident that happened during my shift but I realise it was written with so much anger it sounded bias and unjust.
I guess if I had the courage to tell that particular person off I would have inform and educate him this...
What do you mean by Melayu Pemalas? I bet there are many out there who would have disagreed with you. Look at our parents. Would you have unlimited supply of food and clothes without their hard work to earn? Before you even say such a statement, have you ever wondered about all those who have put in tireless and unrecognised effort to contribute to society and nation? What about our ancient forefathers who helped in building our nation?
What lazy people are you talking about? What 'special' benefits do we get? Am I not informed about a bumiputera plan or something?
We malays climbed our way out of poverty and uneducated backgrounds to be on par with our counterparts. We practically make full use of free education and the opportunity to enhance our skills to be better and useful people.
We even prove to others that we need no special treatment to get us going!
So what f-ing 'Melayu Pemalas' are you talking about?
I simply hate such lame excuses and its because of sentiments such as this that degrades a community. Even if it was meant to be a joke, I believe that an comment such as that is undeserving and should not be shared to people who have worked hard to be where they are today.
ISLAM: A short history - Karen Armstrong Labels: Islam, Karen Armstrong, Muhammad, Muslim, Women
It is surprising especially with my busy schedule that I am able to complete a book within a week! That is an achievement.
This is no ordinary book. It is a short history of a religion misconceived by many.
I was hooked by the facts unknown to me and information that I’ve always wanted to know.
An example: Why are the Muslims categorised into Sunni Islam and Shii Islam? And are we further categorised into the different schools or Madhabs?
Karen’s attempt to give a better and clearer insight on Islam is a great remedy for those who looks at Islam at a negative light. It is true to its objective which is to be a thoroughly good guide and to be an antidote to prejudice.
And for your information, Karen Armstrong used to be Catholic Nun for seven years. Before you question the credibility of this book, in 1999, she received the Muslim Public Affairs Council Media Award. She was also recently invited by MUIS to come to Singapore to have a lecture with some of the Muslims scholars. The lecture was entitled, “The role of religion in the new millennium.”
I am not so much of a historian but the brevity of her book made it easier for a normal reader like me to appreciate history. And I am astounded by her humility and unbiased stand.
She may Not be a Muslim but she is imbued with the Islamic spirit. May Allah bless her for her courage in speaking so favourably about a religion that is so maligned and misunderstood at the moment.
ISLAM: A short history – Karen Armstrong is definitely a recommended read.
Some excerpts from the book:
“It is true that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was one of those rare men who truly enjoy the company of women. Some of his male companions were astonished by his leniency towards his wives and the way he stood up to him and answered him back. Muhammad scrupulously helped with the chores, mended his own clothes, and sought out the companionship of his wives. He often liked to take one of them on expeditions, and would consult them and take their advice seriously. On one occasion his most intelligent wife, Umm Salamah, helped to prevent a mutiny.”
“Emancipation of women was a project dear to the Prophet’s heart. The Quran gave women rights of inheritance and divorce centuries before Western women were accorded such status. Customs such as veiling and segregation of women in a separate part of the house were copied from the Greek Christians of Byzantium, who had long veiled and segregated their women in this manner; they also appropriated some of their Christian misogyny.The Quran makes men and women partners before God with identical duties and responsibilities.”
