Truth is just an illusion by ACP (Rtd) Haji Osman Abu Bakar

January 7, 2012 | Posted in: Featured MBA Blogger, Social Issues

Guilty or Not Guilty?

The nation will again be kept on her toes when the decision of this infamous sodomy trial involving former Deputy Prime Minister,Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim (DSAI) is announced. A sequel to a similar story occurred more than a decade ago that tore the nation apart. The sensational case of 1998 has in fact divided the general public into three factions. One faction of society swayed strongly to DSAI side, convinced that he was merely a victim of a grand conspiracy by the government while the other faction strongly believed that DSAI was indeed involved as charged. While a small faction, the fence sitters who chose to remain neutral. These three factions exist everywhere, in the public sector, the private sector and even in institutions of higher learning.

How did all these come about? The cause, to me, was rather obvious.The judgement passed then created a turbulence that led to this segregation of opinions. Whatever the situation my humble opinion points to the failure in the line of actions taken by the police on that matter. Probably a KGB like operation would have saved the nation unnecessary embarrassments and avoided the present political scenario. The unprofessional handling of the whole matter in 1998 was the main cause that threw us into this cauldron of uncertainty.The constant political upheavals too drained our financial resources. In short a Chua Soi Lek type of operation would be more effective to have the devil exposed and this situation we now face totally avoided.

By the way, I wonder in the Chua Soi Lek’s escapade, who was the smart Alex who executed his operation so smoothly that his identity remained intact to this very day? Phew! Probably he was trained by the KGB? Well mister mysterious, whoever you are you surely is my kind of man and you would have been my first choice candidate for the post of our intelligence chief.So much for that, whatever has been done cannot be undone.Just like the Malay proverb ’nasi dah jadi bubur’ that’s exactly the situation we are in.It’s best we look forward for the sake of unity and security of this country. A thing easier said than done all due to the failure to react appropriately when the 1998 case was known.

Come 9 Jan 2012 ,what do we expect next? We know the outcome of the case of 1998 which later swung in favour of DSAI who was then released from his ‘Sungai Buluh residence’. The aftermath of this thriller saw the birth of ‘Reformasi’,'Parti Keadilan’,'Hindraf’ and other movements including “Bersih”. 9 Jan 2012 is just around the corner and the pro DSAI supporters are already charting the course of actions to be launched and drumming up support to get DSAI released. The other faction too does not just sit down with folded arms and watch things go by.They too probably have plans of their own. Notwithstanding which way the verdict goes found guilty or not guilty, a turbulence will definitely further reshape our political landscape.A not guilty verdict too will interpret that DSAI again was an innocent victim of a grand conspiracy.A jubilant mood among the supporters with shouts of ‘takbir Allahu Akbar’ will surely and constantly echo aloud wherever this man, once the Deputy Prime Minister chose to visit.

D-day Jan 9

9 Jan 2012 is the time we wait for the second tidal wave concerned with the recent case of similar nature and charges preferred against DSAI by his ex aide. Though lots of controversies surrounded the investigation into this case, the honourable judge, will have to come to a decision after careful scrutiny and review all the evidences and facts presented before him, A tough decision but someone has to do the job, don’t they?

Of course we will again face yet another complex situation.As law abiding citizens of this beloved country we need to react in a manner that will not bring unnecessary disruptions to our daily lives.Planned demonstration will further strain our financial resources and create difficulties to the general public,As peace loving people we have to accept whatever the outcome may be.Those dissatisfied with the decision or the present government can use their executive rights when the next general elections comes and hope that we Malaysians can put our differences behind and come together once again like we once used to be. Phew! This is easier said than done.

For the members of the Royal Malaysia Police in the Klang valley, it means bad news as usual leave will be frozen and all are to be on’ standby’ a word hated by most serving in the Klang valley. But nothing to complain as members of the Royal Malaysia Police must realise that their responsibility to the nation is not a walk in the park which I learnt during my training days. Since 1998 street demonstrations and assemblies became a common affair.

Oh yes, don’t forget to tune into the next episode of “Did He Do It?” concerning the controversial sex video clip that should be next after this episode, or is it just going to be filed away?

Lastly as a humble Muslim and just back from the holy land I always pray to Allah swt for the truth to prevail and when this happen it can be painful but like it or not, the truth is the truth and has to prevail. Instability and chaos will only bring miseries and therefore I again pray for Allah swt to protect this beloved country, avoid any catastrophe and let us enjoy progress,everlasting peace and above all racial harmony. Amin

Posted by OBEE at 2:59 AM TUESDAY 27TH DECEMBER 2011

ACP (RTD) HAJI OSMAN ABU BAKAR

The Etiquette of Seeking Knowledge by Akhie Naim

January 7, 2012 | Posted in: Dakwah Issues, Featured MBA Blogger

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http://akhienaim.blogspot.com/2012/01/etiquette-of-seeking-knowledge.html

The Islamic tradition teaches us that both students of sacred knowledge and their teachers have lofty principles and refined codes of conduct that they must adhere to in order to ensure that they can truly achieve virtue through their knowledge and that God opens up for them (futūḥ) the full extent of wisdom and perception. From the most distinguished of these etiquettes (ādāb) that must accompany teaching and seeking knowledge are the following.

1) To have respect in one’s heart and exhibit reverence for gatherings of knowledge.
This is embodied in some of the following practices:
a) To have ritual purity and cleanliness before leaving to attend gatherings of knowledge. The Companions of the Prophet (PBUH) and their followers used to be very attentive to this matter. It is reported that Imām Mālik used to be meticulous in his veneration of gatherings of knowledge to the point that before narrating hadiths, he would make wuḍūʼ, wear his best clothes, sit upon his cushion, comb his beard, put on perfume, and sit in the most dignified and respectful posture. When asked about this he replied, “I love to exalt the hadiths of the Messenger of God (PBUH).”

Another form of purification before attending gatherings of learning is that of the purification of the heart from traits such as backbiting, envy, grudges, and other spiritual diseases through various forms of worship and acts of obedience. This is done to exert an effort to expand one’s heart and state of mind in a way that will make the student more susceptible to absorbing knowledge and implementing it. It is commonly said, “In the presence of scholars guard your tongue. And in the presence of the knowers of God, guard your heart.”

b) A student should come in a state of stillness of the heart, mind, and body (sakīna) along with a demeanor of a dignified seriousness (waqār) that is derived from an understanding of the gravity and significance of being in a circle of learning. Ḥasan al-Baṣrī used to say, “Seek knowledge and seek in order to [attain] knowledge stillness and seriousness (sakīna wa al-waqār) as well as humility towards whom you are learning from and towards those you are teaching.”

Due to the intense reverence that Imām Mālik had for the hadiths of the Prophet (PBUH), it is reported that he once remained seated in the same position while teaching for four hours, even though he had been stung by a scorpion and his color had changed. Upon being asked about this he replied, “I did not want to interrupt the hadiths of the Messenger of God (PBUH).” In this is revealed the depth of Imām Mālik’s understanding of the majesty of God and the rank of His Messenger, upon him be peace. Indeed, God has said in the Qur’an, “Whoever honors the symbols of God, verily it is from the piety of the hearts.”[1]

2) To have humility and respect for scholars and to honor them.

Humility is an essential characteristic that a student must have to truly benefit from his or her teacher. In the hadith of the Messenger of God (PBUH), when the angel Jibrīl (AS) came to ask the Prophet (PBUH) about Islam, Imān, and Iḥsān, he is described as having, “put his knees against the knees [of the Prophet PBUH] and placed his hands on his thighs.”[2] When the Companions used to sit with the Messenger of God (PBUH), they did not used to raise their heads up to him out of their reverence for him. It is reported on the authority of Anas (RA), “If the Messenger of God (PBUH) used to enter the mosque, none of us used to raise our heads except Abū Bakr and ʽUmar. They used to smile at him and he used to smile at them.”[3] It is also reported on the authority of ʽUbāda b. al-Ṣāmit that the Messenger of God (PBUH) said regarding respecting scholars and honoring them, “He is not from my community who does not venerate our elders, have mercy on our youth, and know the rights of our scholars.”[4]

Imām ʽAlī (RA) would say regarding the manners of respect a student should have with his or her teacher, “From the rights of the scholar over you is that you give greeting to people generally and greet him specifically, that you do not ask him questions excessively, you do not meet his answers with discord, you do not pressure him if he tires, you do not grab his garment if he sets forth, you do not reveal to him secrets, you do not back bite anyone in his presence, you do not seek out his shortcomings, and if he makes a mistake you accept his excuse. It is incumbent upon you to respect and honor him for the sake of God as long as he adheres to the commands of God. And [you must not] sit with your back towards him, and if he has a need you should hasten before everyone in serving him.”

It is related by Shaʽbī that, Zayd b. Thābit led a funeral prayer. He then brought his riding animal near so he could ride it and Ibn ʽAbbās came to assist him in mounting. Upon this, Zayd said, “Do not do this O, son of the Messenger of God’s uncle.” Ibn ʽAbbās replied, “This is how he ordered us to treat our scholars and elders.”

Sufyān al-Thawrī entered the gathering of Imām Mālik while his students around him were seated as if there were birds perched on their heads. He later recited the following poem to describe this:

يأبى الجواب فلا يراجع هيبة والسائلون نواكس الأذقان

أدب الوقار وعز سلطان التقى فهو المهيب وليس ذا سلطان

He refuses to answer [excessive questions and the questioner] will not return out of awe
Those who ask [in his presence] sit with their necks bent
Refined manners, grace, and the dignity of a chief of piety
He inspires awe [in hearts] yet he is no king

Al-Shāfiʽī said: “Out of my reverence for him, I used to turn pages while being seated in the presence of Mālik with gentleness so that he does not hear the pages turn.”

It is related by Ṣāliḥ b. Aḥmad b. Ḥanbal, “Al-Shāfiʽī came one day to visit my father while he was ill. He [Ibn Ḥanbal] leapt towards him, kissed him between the eyes, made him sit in his place and he sat in front of him.” He said, “Then he spoke to him for an hour. When al-Shāfiʽī got up to leave, my father rose and took hold of his saddle and walked with him. When [news] of this reached Yaḥya b. Maʽīn, he questioned my father saying, ‘O Abū ʽAbd Allāh, subḥānallah! Were you forced to walk by the side of al-Shāfiʽī’s riding animal?’ My father replied, ‘And you O Abū Zakariyya, had you walked on the other side you would have benefitted.’ Then he said, ‘Who wishes for goodness should follow the tail of that beast.’” It was said to Iskandar, “Why is your reverence for your spiritual guide (al-muʽaddib) greater than your reverence for your father?” He said, “Because my father is the cause of my temporary life while my spiritual guide is the cause of [success] in my eternal life.”

Many of the Muslim rulers and caliphs also used to give immense importance to knowledge and the reverence of scholars. It is related that Hārūn al-Rashīd used to send his two sons al-Amīn and al-Māʼmūn to learn from Imām al-Kisāʼī who was one of the seven reciters of the Qur’an. One day after class was finished; al-Amīn and al-Maʼmūn were competing to carry the sandals of the shaykh. Each one wanted to carry them and then they settled for each of them carrying one sandal. Meanwhile, Hārūn al-Rashīd was watching them from an elevated place in his residence. He later invited him to a table he had prepared for him. He then asked him during the meal, “Who is the happiest of people?” The shaykh said to him: “You are O Leader of the Believers.” He said, “No. The happiest of people is the one who the two heirs of the Leader of the Believers (amīr al-muʼminīn) quarrel to carry his sandals.”

From amongst the forms of respect that students must have for teachers is that they should listen with complete attentiveness, even if the teacher is saying something which they already know from a quote, story, or poem. ʽAṭāʼ said, “I listen to a hadith from a man and I am more knowledgeable of it than him. However, I do not show him that I surpass him in anything.” Similarly, he should not precede the scholar in explaining a matter or answering a question posed by one of the students. It is said, “Learn silence the way you learn to speak. And be more vigilant about listening than speaking.”

As for humility, this not only means that students should be in a state of humbleness while learning but that they must also humble themselves to knowledge in the exertion of their efforts to seek it. Ibn ʽAbbās used to say, “I lowered myself seeking, and then I became sought (dhalaltu ṭāliban fafiztu maṭlūban).” It is also related that he said, “When the Messenger of God (PBUH) died, I said to a man from the Anṣār come lets seek out the Companions of the Messenger of God (PBUH) for they are many today. He said, ‘I am surprised by you, O Ibn ʽAbbās! Whom amongst the Companions of the Messenger of God (PBUH) do you see as better than yourself?’ He said, ‘So I left him and I set out to ask the Companions of the Messenger of God (PBUH) and [news of] a hadith from a man had reached me. I came to the door of the one saying [the hadith] and I spread my cloak on his doorstep, all the while the wind was blowing sand in my face. He came out and saw me and said, ‘O son of the Messenger of God’s (PBUH) uncle, what brought you here? Had you sent for me, I would have come.’ I said to him, ‘It is more fitting that I should come to you.’ He said, ‘And I asked him about the hadith. This man of the Anṣār then lived until he saw me when people had gathered around me asking me, and he would say ‘This youth is more intelligent than me.’”

It is also related that Ibn Shihāb al-Zuhrī would not abandon anyone he knew to possess any knowledge except that he sought him out and found him. Ibrāhīm b. Saʽd said, “I asked my father, how did Ibn Shihāb surpass you?” He said, ‘He used to come to the center of gatherings and not leave an elderly person except that he asked him and not leave a youth except that he asked him. Then he used to go to the homes of the Anṣār and he would not leave a youth he did not ask or an elderly person he did not ask. He used to even speak to the women of the households.’”

Finally, it is incumbent that a student does not acquire pride or vanity after having gained an amount of knowledge, remembering that it is ultimately God who granted this to him or her. Also because the amount of knowledge that one has accumulated regardless of the heights a student has reached is insignificant in comparison to the knowledge of God the Exalted and High. God says in the Qur’an, “He has taught humans what they knew not.”[5] He also says, “And God took you out of the wombs of your mothers [with] you not knowing anything.”[6] God also says, “I have not given you from knowledge except a little,”[7] and He says, “Above each [person] with knowledge is [one] more knowledgeable.”[8]

3) Sincerity: It is essential that those seeking of knowledge do so with an intention sincerely for the sake of God, both when learning and practicing it. This is also the case when teaching and spreading knowledge. The Messenger of God (PBUH) said, “Who learns a science which is learnt for the sake of God not seeking from it anything but a portion of the world will not smell the scent of Heaven on the Day of Resurrection.”[9] He also said, “Whoever learns knowledge to rival scholars, to debate with fools, or to draw people to him, is in the Fire.”[10] Ḥasan al-Baṣrī said, “The punishment of the scholars is the death of the heart. The death of the heart is seeking the world through the works for one’s hereafter.” And Sahl has said, “All of knowledge is of this world except for the portion one practices which is of the other world. And all of deeds are dust except for sincerity.”

4) Trustworthiness: From the codes of conduct associated with knowledge in the Islamic tradition is trustworthiness (amāna). In a related hadith, “Be faithful in knowledge for the betrayal of one in his knowledge is worse than his betrayal in his property. And God will be your questioner on the Day of Resurrection.”[11] From the trusts of knowledge is that the scholar remains within the bounds of what he knows and does not say that which he does not know. Also, from intellectual honesty is to attribute sayings and ideas to their sources.

[1] Qur’an, Al-Ḥajj: 32.

[2] Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim: vol.i/ Kitāb al-imān 1-bāb 1/h. 1

[3] Al-Mustadrak: vol.i/ p.121.

[4] Majmaʽ al-zawāʼid: vol.i/p.127

[5] Qur’an, Al-ʽAlaq: 5.

[6] Qur’an, Al-Naḥl: 78.

[7] Qur’an, Al-Isrāʼ: 85.

[8] Qur’an, Yūsuf: 76.

[9] Sunan Ibn Māja: vol.i/al-Muqaddima-bāb 23/h. 252

[10] Majmaʽ al-zawāʼid: vol.i/ p. 141.

[11] Majmaʽ al-zawāʼid: vol.i/ p.183.

‘Market talk - what some people talk about?’ by HAK55

December 14, 2011 | Posted in: Featured MBA Blogger, General

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http://hak55.blogspot.com/2011/11/market-talk-what-some-people-talk-about.html

Sometimes, on Saturdays, I accompany my wife to go to the wet market at Section 16 in Shah Alam and I will have my breakfast besides reading the newspapers whist waiting for her to complete her weekly marketing.

Normally, my wife joins me for breakfast before we leave for home, like this morning. There are many different types of food to choose from; nasi lemak, rati canai, lontong, mee rebus, goreng pisang,assorted kuehs, etc. They are not just good, they are also quite cheap. Drinks, either hot or cold, are available at less than the price of the same items at mamak eating shops. On certain days, there’s also entertainment kara - o - ke style with the resident DJ singing the songs, mostly very popular 60s Pop Yeh Yeh Malay songs and once a while you will have same courageous members of the public singing too. I sometimes sing too, English and Malay classic rock songs of the 70s and the 80s, when my wife is not nearby.

Last Saturday morning at the market, whilst having breakfast, I overhead a discussion about history between two very senior citizens who were seated next to me, both waiting for their wives doing their marketing, I believe. I listened to their conversations and found the discussion very interesting and I could relate to what they both were talking about. One of them said that he is disappointed that students now are not taught the real history but what they are taught is actually ‘alam manusia’(humanities). He said that anyone aged 50 or below are not learning the right things as far as history is concerned and hopes that this is corrected soon.

“Facts are distorted and nobody bothers to check on their accuracy,” according to him. From the way he talks, he must have been a teacher before.

He commented on Sir Stamford Raffles whom he thought was a visionary besides being a statesman and a scientist (botanist) who has a flower, the very smelly Rafflesia, named after him and continued to say that he was also responsible for the commercialisation of rubber in Singapore and Malaya and had developed the Port of Singapore as an important entreport.

“Who do you think was the first person who romanised the Malay language?” he asked his friend. After waiting for a few minutes without receiving any answer from his friend, he said: “It was R J Wilkinson (I thought it was Winstedt?) and not Zaaba like many thought. His friend just smiled at that.

Further, he thought that it is a shame that the government needed to bring in teachers from the USA to teach our students English. He said, “I am sure there are many excellent English writers and speakers in the country and if the government really tries, I am sure many will come forward to volunteer their services. They may be old but they are still very useful”. He fears that some of the foreign teachers that the government brings in may be either CIA or KGB agents, spies like what you see in James Bond movies.

“Do you know that Malays was controlled by the communist for 14 days?”
he asked.

“Yes,” answered his friend.

Seated on the same table with me was another senior citizen and his young son and after exchanging the normal greetings, he began to lament about the lack of discipline of people, especially young people today, and began his comments by saying that many like to throw rubbish indiscriminately; from inside the car to the roads they are driving on, into rivers and drains, for example, and everywhere else.

“How can we ever keep our rivers clean?” he commented.

“Just look at this market, it’s dirty with rubbish strewn everywhere,
this is typical Malaysia,” he said.

He said, “I am sure they are taught cleanliness and not to litter indiscriminately at home by their parents, at school by their teachers and at work by their peers but still they litter”.

“It must be due to the lack of discipline and the lack of enforcement”, he continued.

He said he has a nephew who works with one of the bigger government agencies in the country who, according to him, is corrupt. They come to work at 8:00 a.m. and by 8.30 am they haven’t even started working and when they do after that, by 9:30, they go missing again to have their almost two-hour morning coffee break and nobody bothers, because their bosses also do that. At 4:00 p.m. they go missing again and this time for their tea break and by the time they get back to their
respective counters, it’s almost the end of the working day already.

“Like that, how can they serve the public efficiently?” he asked.

When confronted about his corrupt practices, his nephew told him that all the others do it and if he didn’t do the same, he will be ostracised by his colleagues. Peer pressure, it seems.

About the situation at our markets he says, ‘Look, even markets are segregated, not just schools. There are markets for Malays/Muslims and there are markets for non-Muslims. Like that, how can we be like 1Malaysia.

A young man joined us after over hearing our conversation and gave his take on the situation of Malaysian cars to day. Commenting on the new Perodua Myvi car models he asked, “Are these cars safe to drive?”

“Just look into the engine compartment, there’s no reinforcement at all, if one is to crash head on, it’s finished!” he says. We just smiled and left after that.

“My friend just bought one, the SE 1.5 twin cam model and he had a workshop installed reinforcement bars at a cost of RM600 to make sure that the car is safe to drive,” he told us.

“I know they want to make a lot of profits, but definitely they should
not do that at our expense!” he grumbled.

“Don’t they ever crash-test those cars?” he asked.

Suddenly, my wife appeared from nowhere and sat next to me and the conversations stopped abruptly. She ordered a bowl of mee rebus and teh - o and as soon as she finished her breakfast, we left for home and had me thinking about the things common people say every day.

posted by hak55 at 5:13 pm comments (0)

Non-Muslims supporting Muslims: What do Divorce, Death & Deen have in common?

December 8, 2011 | Posted in: Featured MBA Blogger, General

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When I practiced law in a large firm, a mentor told me that death and divorce reveal a person’s ‘true colors’. I found this to be the case more often than not. Some people are magnanimous in the face of tragedy, thinking of others before themselves. Other people use the opportunity to vent their hatred and resentment, as if pain is an excuse to say or do as one wants. Recent events suggest that a third category can be added—namely, the deen.

Muslims refer to Islam as a “deen” not a religion. Deen is a broader term and has been translated as a “way of life,” based on submission and obedience to our Creator. Like death and divorce, the deen, or Islam, triggers a response in many. The mere mention of Islam today can reveal a person’s true colors.

Take for instance the now infamous and ongoing controversy over Park51, the proposed Islamic center in lower Manhattan. It has allowed many closet Islam-haters to come out, believing that they now have a legitimate excuse to express their hatred, even if couched in what they believe are socially-acceptable arguments. Across this nation, mosques and other Islamic centers are being challenged, encouraged by the vocal and sometimes prominent opponents of the project. The controversy surrounding Park51 also has provided the impetus for hate crimes.

Yet, look at all the non-Muslims supporting the rights of Muslims to be guaranteed to the same rights as every other American. I personally have been contacted by several friends to let me know how “appalled” and “dismayed” they are over recent events. Many can’t believe this is America. Many do not like where the conversation is heading.

Where does the expression “true colors” come from? The answer may be found in the Qur’an. Several verses in the Qur’an mention the various colors of creation. For example,

And among His Signs is the creation of the heavens and the earth, and the variations in your languages and your colors: verily in that are Signs for those who know. (30:22)

Seest thou not that Allah sends down rain from the sky? With it We then bring out produce of various colors. And in the mountains are tracts white and red, of various shades of color, and black intense in hue. And so amongst men and crawling creatures and cattle, are they of various colors. Those truly fear Allah, among His Servants, who have knowledge: for Allah is Exalted in Might, Oft-Forgiving. (35:27-28)

Islam teaches that God (swt) is unique and one but reveals Himself through His many names and attributes. And just as a rainbow reveals the many colors of light from the sun, each part of creation reveals aspects of our Creator and ourselves. In other words, although we originate from pure light, we each display our own true colors.

http://www.examiner.com/muslim-in-baltimore/non-muslims-supporting-muslims-what-do-divorce-death-deen-have-common

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Continue reading on Examiner.com Non-Muslims supporting Muslims: What do Divorce, Death & Deen have in common? - Baltimore Muslim | Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/muslim-in-baltimore/non-muslims-supporting-muslims-what-do-divorce-death-deen-have-common#ixzz1fxHGO2Cg

Mahaguru58’s Haj Journey ~ Part 1

December 7, 2011 | Posted in: Featured MBA Blogger

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mahaguru58 at th kelana jaya

I had checked in at the Kelana Jaya Tabung Haji Complex on the night of Wednesday, 19th October, 2011 after getting a call from Tabung Haji HQ at KL that I was listed to be amongst this year’s TH Pilgrims for Haj 1432 Hijrah.

TH Kelana Jaya Assembly Hall

After going through the procedures and checking in my luggage and collecting my passport which I had earlier handed over to Tabung Haji for Haj Visa processing, I was ushered in to the TH Kelana Jaya Assembly Hall where other pilgrims were also assembled. Each of us already in our Ihram unstitched garments. We had earlier taken our Sunat Ihram Bath and conducted our Solat Sunat Ihram.

There was a festive atmosphere at the complex and earlier on, I had bid goodbye to my darling wife. I was the one who was a tad emotional realizing that it’s gonna be a month or more before I would be seeing her again and I had tears in my eyes.

My wife asked me to be strong and reminded me that I was going on my Haj. The 5th and final pillar of Islam. Her words of encouragement beefed me up and I fortified my mind that Insya Allah, I will be returning to her as a Muslim husband who had completed all my obligations to Allahu Ta’ala and will be much more better than I ever was as a husband and Da’ee.

This was a photo of myself taken before departing for KLIA.

This is the Saudi Arabian Airlines Boeing 747 jetliner that we were to board on our Haj flight to the Holy Lands.

A self portrait of myself in the Saudi Arabian Airlines Boeing 747 before the flight taking off to the King Abdul Aziz International Airport at Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

The in flight monitor screen showing us arriving at the Arabian Peninsular. The plane used to belong to Japan Airlines. There were Japanese words popping up on screen.

Mahaguru58 performing Hajj this year! Insya Allah!

October 17, 2011 | Posted in: Announcements, Featured MBA Blogger

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Mahaguru58

Assalamualaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh.

Insya Allah, I will be performing my Hajj this year. I will be reporting at the Kelana Jaya Tabung Haji Complex on Wednesday, the 19th of October after Isya. The flight to Makkah leaves at 0130am early Thursday morning from KLIA.

I ask for all MBA members to forgive any wrongs that I may have done in my years of hosting this MBA and also to pray for my being able to perform my Hajj according to the tenets of our faith. Insya Allah.

I will pray for all MBA members to be able to perform your Hajj as well and for Allah to bless us all in our efforts here on Earth and Insya Allah reward us in the Akhirat as well.

Amin.

Wabillahi Taufik Wal Hidayah.

Wassalamualaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh.

‘Fed-Up!’ from Musings of a Mualaf’s blog

September 13, 2011 | Posted in: Featured MBA Blogger

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FED-UP

Aliya,

i am a follower of your blog. i am chinese muslim for 5 years, married with 3 children. in beginning i lived like good muslimah but now i begin to get fedup. i know it not right but i donno what to do oredi. my husband want me to be solehah wife and mother, but he doesnt teach me islam bcoz he busy with work and come back late. my husband good man but always busy. my 3 children are still small and need me to always care for them. i work in office and when i get home, i have no rest bcoz i have to care for the children pulak. i have no maid bcoz husband cannot pay. i look back and think my life before i become muslim better and more happy than now. of course i love my family but i cannot tahan everytime got problems. before i become muslim i am buddhist. i dont have many problems like now. now got money problem, children sick problem, husband not home problem, work problem. i very tired have to do all myself. i read that problem is test from allah to test i believe in allah or not. i know i am not very strong in islam. i look strong, people say i good muslimah bcoz i wear tudung, but i dont feel like a good muslimah. i tired of test from allah. i dont want anymore allah test. i oredi tired with so many problems, i donno what to do if i get new test from allah. i cannot talk to husband this problem bcoz he will scold me and tell me to zikir and pray more. how to pray and zikir more when i always tired and got new test? sometimes i feel like leaving and go back to old life bcoz old life no many problems. i stay bcoz i love my husband and children. please tell me what to do.i dont care if u put in your blog bcoz i want answers. i tired and dont want anymore test from allah. i dont want to murtad but i fedup with so many problems, non stop always got problems, no rest. i see other muslim not so difficult life compare to me. why must i be the one to get this tests and problems. how to ask allah not to give me any more test and problems? why other people dont get so many test from allah? why me, when i oredi cannot tahan anymore.

jamilah

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Assalamualaikum,

Ada siapa yang boleh bantu nasihat sister ini?

Saya ada hal lain, hanya sempat pos emel dia sekarang, untuk renungan semua.

Terima kasih, wassalam.

3 comments:

The Tea Drinker said…

suami dia kena support dia lebih. masalah yg disebut2 pun bukannya exklusif kepada orang Islam tu. orang agama mana2 pun dapat masalah tu.

orang Islam pun ramai dapat masalah camtu cuma rasanya kita dah biasa dengan konsep usaha dan berserah maka masalah itu tidak ganggu teruk sangat. macam saya pernah dengan masalah kewangan, campur lagi anak kerap sakit dan macam2 lagi masa tu. tp kita tau, kalau tak diuji macam mana nak tau kita betul2 beriman dan sabar? dan sekarang dia tau sejauh mana sayang dia kat suami dan anak.

panjang ni kalau nak nasihat pun. perlu face to face. jadi eloknya dia jumpa la ustazah mana2 untuk consultation.

13 September 2011 10:41

[nurfarahsyakirah] said…

I tried to comment here but maybe my comment is too long so I have to post it using my blog.

This is my letter for sister Jamilah.

http://therockinghijab.blogspot.com/2011/09/advice-from-revert-to-revert.html

13 September 2011 11:36

Hariz Khair Ad-Deen said…

Salam…

Stahu sy, Allah akn mnguji seseorg itu, hnya ssuai mngikut kmampuannya. Jika saudari diuji spt itu, dn rsa xmmpu. Pcayalah, sbnanye saudari mmpu! Cuma, tkdng, diri kita yg cba mnolak kmmpuan yg ad, dn mngatakn pd dri kita yg kita sdah tak mmpu… wpn hkikatnya, kita mmpu shj utk terus sabar dn btahan.

inshaAllah, ykinlah jua pdNya, slps ksushn ad kmudhn. (surah As-Syarh)

Stuju jga, dgn kta2 the tea drinker, mslh2 ni, bkn ekslusif dr Islam je. ini mslh2 yg tdk asing, mncul dlm khidupn, dn inshaAllah, bleh dislesaikn, mlalui usaha, prbincangn, dn doa kpd Allah.

wallahu’alam. apa2pn, sy nsihatkn, fikir jauh2 dlu, sblm buat apa2 kputusn. igt Allah, dlm apa2 jua situasi. cba bsangka baik pdNya. mudah2an, Allah mmpermudhkn urusan saudari. inshaAllah

mgkin saudari bleh jga tgk link2 ni, utk mngaut motivasi dn kkuatan sdikit sbyk.. biiznillah

http://onekuliah.blogspot.com/2011/04/dr-asri-suratan-kebetulan.html

http://www.iluvislam.com/inspirasi/motivasi/3018-aku-tidak-mampu.html

13 September 2011 11:44

Conflicts between Shariah & Civil Courts by Azril Mohd Amin

September 9, 2011 | Posted in: Featured MBA Blogger

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BY AZRIL MOHD AMIN

The following are brief answers prepared by Hj. Abdul Rahim Sinwan, Deputy President, Muslim Lawyers Association of Malaysia, in response to questions posed by the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) recently on the issue of conflicts between Shariah and Civil Courts. The BBC piece which quoted him appeared here.

I have made minor editing to the original text.

Conflicts between Shariah and Civil Courts

With reference to your queries and short notice, in deriving any perception of law especially with regards to Islam and Muslim in Malaysia, one must appreciate aspects of Federalism and relations with Malay rulers and states and in seeking solution within the framework of the Federal constitution. Having such backdrop will reduce or perhaps eradicate misconception and having slanted or biased deduction of Muslims, Islam and Malays. All of this must point to the relevance of Malaysia law and the legal system.

Q.1

Is the association concerned with the number of cases trying to challenge the conflicts between Shariah and civil courts?

The association advocates educating the public at large as one of the main thrust of our objectives. Currently the Legal position of Muslims and Islam under the Federal Constitution enjoys the limelight in present context in conflicts of Shariah and Civil courts.

Q.2

In child custody battles the non-Muslim parent say they should not subject themselves to the Shariah courts because it has no jurisdiction over them. What do you make of this argument?

The issue of jurisdiction of courts is a dicey issue when one approaches it without appreciating the backdrop mentioned earlier. Please note that the Shariah never stop non- muslims from seeking justice in Shariah court, in fact Shariah Court open its doors to non-muslim witnesses and litigants, cases of Nonya Tahir in Negeri Sembilan and Fatimah Teh in Pulau Pinang.

Non Muslims can submit to Shariah court jurisdiction, it is a fallacy that Shariah court is religious, the court is another system which can be alternative or in fact complement to the present civil system, the jurisdictional demarcation of the dual system is found under 121 1(1A) of the Federal Constitution.

The Law Reform Act (LRA) is modeled on the common law which historically a Christian Marriage and divorce law. In fact in Malaysia it took not less than 6 years for the law to be effectively invoked as there were resentment to its acceptance by the diverse religious group namely Buddhist, Hindus, Sikh and others because by accepting marriage under LRA it ran against their religion and customs.

Muslims are not subject to this law! The Non Muslim especially the non Christian for now has another alternative if they submit to the jurisdiction of the Shariah Court. The Shariah Court is invoking a system it does not force religion, would it be fair that the common law in Malaysia legal system invoke Christian religion to litigants and witnesses in present context.

Q.3

In conversion cases, why should the Muslim have to go to Shariah courts to seek permission as opposed to the civil courts? Is it realistic to say Shariah courts would grant this since the court is based on the Islamic faith?

Reference in respect of Conversion cases in Malaysia is a settled law as to which court the party must go as in the case ofLina Joy case. The apex court has decided, the very purpose that Lina Joy sought remedy at Civil court for an answer has been answered by the apex court, she chose certainty of forum to opt out of Islam has been clearly answered by the Apex court! Civil Court has no jurisdiction to define faith and decide Muslim faith of a person.

Whether one is a muslim or not is not within the jurisdiction of Civil court, the best forum is Shariah court because even Mufti, mullah, Imam or even Islamic institution namely JAKIM can do that!

Lina Joy has shied away the solution she initiated. Take note the Apex Court has decided.

Q.4

So far the civil courts have shied away from making a decision in these constitutional challenges. Do you see a resolution to these cases?

The Civil courts make decision based on issues challenging the constitutionality of matters pertaining to Islam and Muslims. It would be unfair when the court judged otherwise it would be construed to be biased! Litigants were given every opportunity to advance their contention and argument. The adversarial system in Malaysia follows the “stare decisis” where the higher court binds the lower court and the higher court sets precedents to development of law in Malaysia. There would not be certainty to law if the “sour grape syndrome” is advocated.

Q.5

There is a perception that Shariah courts will favour Muslims over non-muslims (in custody cases) and against Muslim converts. What do you think of this perception?

Such perception is a fallacy. It’s an old message forever new! Shariah Court welcome non muslim litigant in seek remedy in Shariah court, it would be an insult to muslims that Shariah Court does not know to dispense justice! Shariah court is as misunderstood as the religion Islam itself, a misnomer not to non- muslims but also to many muslims! Therefore one of the very purposes of our association is to educate the public at large.

Sacrifice of a brave journalist by ACP (Rtd) Osman Bakar

September 9, 2011 | Posted in: Featured MBA Blogger

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Sacrifice of a brave journalist

It is indeed a sad day for Malaysia and in particular to the Malaysian humanitarian group to Somalia. Noramfaizul Mohd Noor a member of the media group went with a mission to record all activities of the humanitarian group in Somalia and died a hero. However this was destined to happen and the risks are obvious to everyone. A war journalist can never avoid risks and that includes death.

However some important factors need to be focused to ensure the safety of future mission members and to maintained a high level of alertness. Recollecting my experience while in the Balkan, upon our arrival a security brief was given to all mission members. We knew clearly about the risks we faced and everyone of us left everything to Almighty God. The dos and the don’ts were made clear to us before we went on our various assignments. But although much was said we have to accept that fate knows no one and can strike without notice and this can be painful to accept.

Also on mission like this, like it or not, all should wear the flak jacket and helmet as a precaution each time on assignment as danger lurks in every corner. Hopefully future missions to conflict areas anywhere in the globe should undergo a proper briefing before departure as well as upon arrival. Necessary equipments should also be supplied to each and every member of the group including communication.

Members should be physically fit as conditions, in particular, in conflict areas demands this. Probably some form of training is conducted here before departure to expose members to circumstances they might encounter at their destination.

Whatever the situation, what was done cannot be undone and what is more important here is that a lesson is learnt from this unfortunate incident. In a conflict area like Somalia, although the government is responsible for the safety of everyone, they cannot be totally blamed. One must clearly remember that the government faced limitations by years of conflict and the individuals concerned have to ensure his or her own security in a volatile zone like in Somalia.

We must also accept that this will not be the end and it will happen again because the risks are always there and everyone on a mission like this understands this very well.

In conflict areas the risks cannot be eradicated totally. So at this juncture there is no point crying over spilt milk but instead we should focus our efforts to improve standards and plan for future missions.

Noramfaizul Mohd Noor, may Allah SWT bless your soul and the family should remain strong in the face of such a calamity. It is hoped that whatever promises made to the family by the government is not mere lip service but will be a reality.

Noramfaizul Mohd Noor, may Allah bless your soul. Alfatihah.

ACP (Rtd) Osman Bakar blogs at http://obee-mancuso.blogspot.com

Congratulations to Cikgu Nur Aliya Yeoh on Ihsan’s safe delivery!

September 9, 2011 | Posted in: Announcements, Featured MBA Blogger

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Alhamdulillah! We are so grateful to Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala for blessing our MBA member Cikgu Nur Aliya Yeoh with another son. This future mujahid is named Ihsan.

On behalf of the MBA, I wish Cikgu Aliya and Ihsan all the best in their future. Ikram now has a baby brother to keep him and his mom company.

Selamat Hari Raya Aidil Fitri Aliya! May you be well and happy with your beloved sons and hubby!

Ameen Ya Rabbal Alameen!

Cikgu Aliya blogs at http://pukullima.blogspot.com/