'A new Malaysia in the making...'

************************* In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful; blessings and peace be upon Prophet Muhammad s.a.w. *********************** Reflection ************************ The Declining Day (Al-'Asr) 1. By the declining day, 2. Lo! Man is in a state of loss, 3. Save those who believe and do good works, and exhort one another to truth and exhort one another to endurance. ********************** One thing I 'hate' going to Pakatan Rakyat's 'ceramahs' (talks) nowadays is that I have to park my car a distance from the venue and do a lot of walking. ********************* Normally crowds at Pakatan's 'ceramahs' spill over from their original grounds, resulting in massive jams of not only vehicles but people! ******************** On Monday, 22th April, a cousin told me Anwar Ibrahim would make his last appearence in Melaka before the D-day of 5th May. He was scheduled to take the stage with top Pakatan leaders in Melaka such as Shamsul Iskandar Mohd Akin of PKR and Goh Leong Sang from DAP. ************************ I was thinking whether to go or not to that 'ceramah' scheduled to be held on the night of 23rd April in Taman Merdeka, Batu Berendam. I hate to be caught in traffic jams and walk to the venue, but suddenly an idea crept into my head; why not I load in my daughter's bicycle into my car; park the car a distance away and then cycle to the location? *********************** I put into practise that 'innovative idea'; and well at 10 pm sharp on that day; with that small bicycle managed to weave myself to a spot about 50 metres from stage. I asked a youth next to me what was his assumption of the crowd; he said that 'ceramah' attracted some 20,000 people. ************************ Goh who is running for the Duyong state constituency with his tagline 'Kerajaan Baru Impian Baru' (New Government New Hopes) written on his buntings and posters spread in the area said innovative ideas should be welcome by the new government. Well, perhaps I had alreadly put 'a brilliant idea' into practise! ************************ Leaders of Pakatan Rakyat at that 'ceramah' talked among others about 'a new Malaysia' after election day. Anwar among others talked about lowering the the price of fuel and food items, free and fair education for all and most important "we are establising a 'kerajaan rakyat' (people's government) that cares for the rakyats' inspiration and needs." ********************** As Anwar took stage, 'rockets' of fireworks were fired into space. The sky was brightened by colorful sparks of fire; the atmosphere was joyful with people shouting and clapping their hands; 'a new Malaysia' was in the making as the rakyat were entering 'a second Merdeka' - free from the hands of the feudal few and their cronies. ************************** On the subject of 'a new Malaysia', I liked one idea given by a speaker who said the time has come to stop 'political warlords' from interfering in government departments and agencies' policies and identities and bullying its servants. He said it is common knowledge that one 'Ketua Menteri' (Chief Minister) had his hands on duties supposedly to be handled by a 'datuk bandar' (mayor) including on its monies, accounts and allocation. ************************ What was said by that speaker should be an eye opener for citizens who love this beloved country of ous. In my opinion, politicians should have their hands off from interfering policies and works of government servants. *********************** The issue of learning Science and Mathematics in English (Pembelajaran dan Pengajaran Sains dan Matematik dalam Bahasa Inggeris, PPSMI) from 2002 onwards which was forced upon teachers and pupils by the then Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad was a clear example. To me, let's have faith in the civil servants; they are professional in their work, they should know what's best for those under them. ************************ Politicians too have their hands on matters regarding works and monies of state Islamic religious departments including 'zakat' (tithe). Why interfer in affairs of these departments? Have faith in them and let those who were trusted to their positions do their work professionally. Please, do not tramp on zakat monies as though it was you own property by giving handouts to only those who support you and your party! ************************ Politicians too have their hands full on issues pertaining to citizenship. Why menddle in the works of people of the Registration Department? Why don't have faith in government agencies and servants? The same could be said on other departments and identities such as 'Jabatan Kebajikan Masyarakat' (Welfare Department), 'Kemas' and last but not least the unpopular 'Suruhanjaya Pilihan Raya (SPR)' and 'Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM)'. ************************ If Pakatan Rakyat took the helms of Putrajaya; please give full support to those chosen government servants to do their work in line with their deparments' inspirations; do not interfere and menddle with their affairs. Stop harrasing them for example sending teachers to remote areas if they were involved in parties and unions works as being done by the previous regime! ********************** A few days ago (22th April), in his speech after announcing his membership in PAS, the former Menteri Besar of Selangor for more than a decade, Tan Sri Muhammad Muhd Taib, admitted that Muslims in this country is fast losing the Islamic 'roh' (spirit) in them. **************************** Without 'roh', Muslims were living without purpose; true some selected few and their cronies were gaining material gains such as having many properties and monies while their places of worship such as 'masjid' were big and beautiful, but had no 'barakah' (not blessed) in their lives. ********************* Masjids are empty, while at home, 'kasih sayang' (love among family members) was on the decline; many children were without this 'kasih sayang', but instead showered with wealth. Some of these children from well off families (Tan Sri Muhammad mentioned Shah Alam as an example) lived on the fast lanes - with flashy cars and lots of money which they dump into pubs, clubs, casinos and into the hands of unmoral activities and women! ********************** I totally agree with you, Tan Sri Muhammad; I salute you to have make that great move; so let all of us lend our hands to help PAS with all our ability and resources in transforming all Muslims begining with our family members to lead lives in line with the teaching of Allah SWT and His Prophet, Muhammad (s.a.w.). It was touching of you Tan Sri Muhammad for saying that PAS having your trust in paving the way so that Muslims would lead safe lives in this world and Hereafter. ************************ As PAS is a component party in Pakatan Rakyat, let us all work all out to make this dream (impian) of a new goverment a reality. ****************************** As Anwar had mentioned in his speech in Taman Merdeka that this is the first time since 'Merdeka' the rakyat have two identities (Pakatan Rakyat and Barisan Nasional) to choose from in forming the next government; let all of us share the same inspiration; let's hope for 'a new Malaysia'. Let's celebrate MERDEKA for the second time, INI KALILAH!

Penyokong DAP cuba fahami Islam, sebaliknya...

************************ Dengan Nama Allah Yang Maha Pemurah Lagi Maha Penyayang, selawat dan salam ke atas junjungan besar Nabi Muhammad s.a.w. ************************** Renungan ************************* "Adakah satu pencita selain Allah, yang memberi kamu rezeli dari langit dan bumi? Tiada tuhan selain Dia, maka ke manakah kamu dibuat berpaling." - Maksud Ayat 3 Surah Faathir ********************** KETIKA bersesak-sesak bersama penyokong-penyokong Barisan Nasional (BN) di sebuah pusat penamaan calon PRU13 pada 20 April lalu, secara diam-diam saya menitipkan risalah cara pemakaian pakaian menutup aurat yang sempurna kepada wanita-wanita terutama yang saya lihat bertudung tetapi tidak sempurna penutupan aurat mereka seperti memakai baju-T mendedahkan lengan atau berjeans dan blaus terlalu ketat. *************************** Bagi saya, wanita-wanita bertudung sudah berada di permulaan landasan betul, cuma mereka perlu 'ditolong sikit lagi' dengan menerangkan kepada mereka bahawa menutup aurat itu bukan bermakna bertudung saja. Apa erti bertudung jika pakaiannya tersangat ketat, lengan terdedah atau mempamerkan akhlak yang tidak baik seperti menjerit lantang berulang-ulang "Gelombang" untuk disambung penyokong "Biru". Sungguh kurang sopan apabila wanita menjerit-jerit seperti itu. ******************************** Semuanya berjalan lancar sehinggalah seorang pemuda berbaju biru berlogo BN menjerit "Awas, ni risalah pembangkang ni, siapa bagi ni?" *************************** Sejumlah wanita memandang saya, jadi saya tidak dapat mengelak. Pemuda itu memandang tepat ke arah saya; saya yang bertopi bagi menggantikan kopiah yang biasa saya pakai; bersuara, "Adik, ini bukan risalah pembangkang, ini satu panduan agama, soal pakaian dan aurat; supaya kita selamat di dunia dan akhirat." ****************************** "Kami tak peduli itu semua; awak pergilah dari sini sebelum kami apa-apakan kamu!" katanya keras. ************************ Banyak mata memandang saya. Dengan langkah berat, saya pun menyusup keluar daripada himpunan penyokong BN itu. Terasa pedih di muka dan hati apabila diusir sebegitu rupa. Ya, terasa sungguh pedih dan sedih, namun apabila tergambar di minda kisah yang dibaca mengenai pahit getir perjuangan rasul-rasul terutama Nabi akhir zaman Muhammad s.a.w., para sahabat, tabien, tabik tabien sehinggalah pejuang masa kini, apalah sangat yang saya alami itu. ****************************** Ketika berjalan, saya terdengar ada yang bercakap: "Itu haram, ini haram, apa yang tak haram?" ********************* Selepas lama 'berehat' bagi menenangkan diri, saya menyelusup masuk ke dalam kumpulan penyokong DAP dan PAS. Pemandangan 'kesatuan' penyokong PAS dan DAP begitu mengujakan; jika pada pilihan raya 2008 dulu, kumpulan penyokong PAS dan DAP berada secara berasingan, kali ini mereka 'bercampur gaul' pula jadi boleh dilhat bendera PAS (bulan) dan DAP (roket) berselang seli berkibaran; kelihatan orang Melayu-Cina bergurau dengan mesra sekali. ************************* Ketika berdiri di depan beberapa penyokong DAP, saya perasaan seorang anak muda Cina sekejap-kejap melihat ke arah ikatan risalah yang saya pegang. Saya senyum, dia pun senyum. Saya pun bertanya; "Mahu? Tapi maaflah ini risalah untuk orang perempuan!" ******************************** Apabila diberikan risalah itu, pemuda yang kemudian saya tahu namanya Lee itu membelek-beleknya; membuka peluang kepada saya memberi penerangan. "Inilah cara untuk wanita Islam pakai pakaian yang menutup aurat. Sana (saya menunjukkan ke arah penyokong BN) ramai pakai tudung tetapi dedah sana, dedah sini. Ini tak tutup aurat dengan betul." ************************* Lee kelihatan tertarik, lalu saya pun meneruskan penerangan; "Orang Islam kena ikut sepenuhnya apa yang Allah dan Rasul suruh. Kalau tutup aurat tutup betul-betul jangan pakai macam tu." Lee menyampuk: "Betul tu, ada perempuan pakai tudung tetapi lebih seksi daripada yang tak pakai tudung!" ************************ "Itulah," kata saya kepada Lee, "yang PAS pejuangkan. Kalau masuk Islam, ikut semua yang Tuhan Allah suruh. Jangan ambil sekerat-kerat. Ini macam perangai Yahudi. Macam 'you' nak memandu di jalan raya; 'you' kalau tak nak memandu, itu 'you' punya hal, tetapi apabila 'you' memandu di jalan raya awam 'you' mesti ikut semua dia punya 'rule'. Macam itulah dengan Islam, 'you' boleh pilih masuk Islam atau tidak, tetapi apabila masuk Islam kenalah ikut semua 'rule'nya" ***************************** Lee menjadi lebih tertarik, saya pun menyambung hujah: "Kita ni hidup paling lama 70-80 tahun. Lepas tu kita mati. Apa jadi lepas mati? Ini amat penting, kita mahu 'bahagia' di sana. Macam KWSP, kita labur untuk hari tua. Kita 'prepare' untuk hari tua. Tapi adakah kita 'prepare' untuk hari selepas kita mati? Apa yang kita tahu mengenai alam sana. Kita tidak tahu apa-apa. Yang beritahu kita adalah Tuhan Allah melalui rasul-rasul dan nabi-nabinya. Ada 124,000 nabi dan rasul; mungkin Buddha dan Konfucius itu nabi..." ******************************* Lee menjadi lebih tertarik. Saya bercerita dan bercerita sehingga Lee menanyakan nama dan bagaimana mahu berhubungan dengan saya. Demikianlah betapa berminatnya seorang penyokong DAP cuba memahami Islam, sebaliknya ada orang yang mengaku Islam tidak ambil pusing agama mereka sendiri sehingga ada yang tergamak berkata; "itu haram, ini haram, apa yang tak haram?"

PAS, parti berjiwa besar

*********************** DENGAN nama Allah Yang Maha Pemurah Lagi Maha Penyayang; selawat dan salam ke atas junjungan besar Nabi Muhammad s.a.w. *********************** Renungan ********************** "Maka barangsiapa yang derhaka dan mengutamakan hidup di dunia, maka sesungguhnya nerakalah tempat diamnya. Adapun orang yang takut akan kebesaran Tuhannya dan menahan dirinya daripada hawa nafsunya, maka sesungguhnya syurgalah tempat diamnya." - Q.S An-Nazi'at 37-41 *********************** Bersyukur ke hadrat Illahi kita dipanjangkan usia bagi memuzakarahkan isu semasa ketika negara dilanda gegak gempita PRU13. ******************************* Kesyukuran kita bertambah apabila melihat semakin ramai individu termasuk tokoh ternama Umno menyedari kesilapan mereka dan berbondong-bondong menyertai PAS dan parti-parti lain dalam Pakatan Rakyat. Misalnya, bekas Menteri Besar Selangor selama lebih sedekad, Tan Sri Muhammad Muhd Taib ketika menyerahkan permohonannya memasuki PAS, secara rendah diri menyatakan keyakinannya bahawa PAS dapat memandu rakyat ke arah kehidupan berpaksikan roh Islam. ***************************** Kesediaan PAS menerima dengan tangan terbuka penyertaan Muhammad dan ramai lagi tokoh Umno menunjukkan betapa besarnya jiwa parti Islam ini. Sejajar dengan ajaran Islam yang sukakan umatnya kembali ke pangkal jalan dengan Allah SWT sebagai Maha Pengampun, PAS bersedia menerima individu dan pihak yang dulu menghina, memfitnah dan memperlekehnya. Tiada dendam di hati, dengan penyertaan individu-individu ini, marilah sama-sama kita berusaha gigih memenangkan Islam sekali gus mendaulatkan keadilan di negara kita terutama pada saat getir PRU13 ini. *************************** Sepanjang sejarah Islam, ramai individu 'haprak' bertukar permata bergermelapan apabila mendapat cahaya kebenaran Islam. Sayidina Umar al-Khattab adalah contoh ke depan; pada zaman gelapnya, beliau 'samseng Makkah' yang pernah membunuh anak perempuannya. Tetapi apabila telah memeluk Islam, Nabi s.a.w, pernah bersabda, jika ada Nabi selepas baginda, orang itu adalah Umar al-Khattab. ******************************** Dengan jiwa besar PAS ini yang sejajar dengan kehendak Islam, diharap dan didoakan lebih ramai rakyat termasuk tokoh besar negara diberikan hidayah untuk bersama-sama memperjuangkan agar Islam didaulatkan di negara kita. Bagi seorang Muslim, tidak ada cita-cita yang lebih besar daripada melihat Islam didaulatkan pada diri, keluarga, bangsa dan negara atau mereka sendiri mati syahid!

Mass media, stop being Zionist…

********************** In the name of Allah, Most Merciful, Most Compassionate; blessings and peace be upon Prophet Muhammad s.a.w. ********************** Reflection *********************** “Invite to the way of your Rabb with wisdom and beautiful preaching; and argue with them in ways that are best and most gracious, for your Rabb knows best, who have strayed from His Path, and who receive guidance." (An-Nahl: 125) ************************** I have stopped buying (but not reading) the so called main stream newspapers since many years ago except for one compact (tabloid) daily which gave a lot of space to human interest stories. ********************* But recently it had allocated pages and pages of BN news coverage as though it had been changed into a propaganda machinery of that party resulted in my wife saying: "Dear, you need not buy that paper anymore!" ********************** Well, with the D-day (voting day) fast approaching, it is interesting to analyse people and parties who are directly involved in election; but I would prefer to narrow the scope to our mass media since it is near to me as I was educated and have some experience in this field. ************************ Reading the so called main stream newspapers or following the news on radio or television, I could not help but have the conclusion that the mass media is terribly biased and unfair media in reporting events on the 13th general elections. ********************** News on BN leaders and their functions dominate much space either in the print media or electronic one; their opponents are denied coverage; their inspirations and functions are blocked out from being aired, and the saddest part of it is that their leaders' speeches and words were twisted and spinned according to the agendas of the newspapers and TV stations 'big brothers'. ********************* The attitude in choosing what is thought good for oneself and discarding what is thought bad is just like the actions portrayed by the Children of Israel who prefer to hide truth that might hurt themselves. ************************ The Jews have changed the book of Allah for their own self-interest. Nowadays newsmen have the hands free to tramp the ethics of journalism; they discard in reporting the truth but act to please their political masters. ************************ Wikipedia noted that while various existing codes have some differences, most share common elements including the principles of — truthfulness, accuracy, objectivity, impartiality, fairness and public accountability — as these apply to the acquisition of newsworthy information and its subsequent dissemination to the public. *********************** Whereas the Malaysian Press does hereby adhere to the Canons of Journalism; the primary responsibility of the Malaysian journalist is to report facts accurately and faithfully and to respect the right of the public to the truth. ********************* Report nothing but the truth, but what have some of our press people done? They know the truth and have 'mastered' the ethics and canons of journalism, but sadly these principles have been put aside by them just to gain little worldly rewards. *********************** They knew that one of Bersih's (Coalition for Free and Fair Elections) demands was that to have all parties attain equal and fair access to the media during election time which is in line with the ethics of journalism, but the caretaker regime just ignored it. ********************** To hide the truth is one attitude of the Jews. As Muslims we should obeyed all Allah SWT words in the Qur’an. Allah SWT has given us warning on this matter in one Qur’anic verse where He warns us not to become like the Children of Israel who disobey some of Allah SWT’s commandments in the Taurah, as stated in Ayah 85 Surah Al-Baqarah which reads; “…Then is it only a part of the Book that ye believe in, and do ye reject the rest? But what is the reward for those among you who behave like this but disgrace in this life? And on the Day of Judgment they shall be consigned to the most grievous penalty. For Allah is not unmindful for what ye do.” ************************* Regarding the tendency of Muslims to follow the footsteps of non-believers, a hadith from Bukhari and Muslim, narrated Abu Sa'id, r.a. noted the Prophet peace be upon him (pbuh) said, "Surely, you will follow the ways of those nations who were before you, in everything as one arrow resembles another, (i.e. just like them), so much so that even if they entered a hole of a sand-lizard, you would enter it." ******************************* They said, "O Allaah’s Messenger! Do you mean to say that we will follow the Jews and the Christians?" The Prophet (pbuh) replied, "Whom else?" (By meaning the Jew and Christians) *************************** Well, I may sound harsh when implying that some of our people including those in the field of mass media (for exampe hide the truth) and are hence following the footsteps of the Jews; they conceal the truth but distort news of those who were on the way to Allah SWT. ***************************** Why more and more Malaysian including leaders and newsmen inclined to follow the bad attitude of the Jews? The Jews did not conquer the world as the British, Spaniards, Dutch and Portuguese but their succeeded in capturing the minds of the people. ************************** Nowadays many of us, including those running newspapers and TV stations have minds resembling that of the Jews. Pysically we are Malays, Chinese, Indians or Ibans, but our attitudes and actions speak volumes about our inner selves. Just like the Jews, they read, hear and see the truth, but sadly they ignore it. The Jews hope for truth but when the truth appears on their doorsteps, they just discard it. ****************************** The Jews are also untrustworthy, they are ready to sell their faith for some cheap gains. They prefer the life of this world to the Hereafter. "Those are the people who trade the Hereafter for this world. The punishment will not be lightened for them. They will not be helped." (Qur'an, 2:86) *********************** When our top leaders and the mass media personel have this type of attitute as that of the Jews (perhaps they imbibed it through their APCO connection), the people will follow their steps. ************************ When leaders put on a deaf ear on the rampant practise of corruption in high level management or they themselves are involved in crimes such as in murder and rape cases, the lower strata of societies will be worse. Nowadays it is a common knowledge that crimes such as murder, splashing of acid and paint on property and rape cases are on the rise. *************************** But the 'rakyat' too have become 'immune' (have no feelings) when they read crime news in newspapers or hear radio and TV news. Perhaps their hearts have 'hardened'. Is it because of our mass media's inclination to act like the Children of Israel? **************************** As a guideline to those who would still read and follow the main stream media, remember this word of Allah SWT: "O ye, who believe! If a wicked person comes to you with any news, ascertain the truth, lest ye harm people unwittingly, and afterwards become full of repentance for what ye have done." (Al-Qur'an 49:6)

Pentingnya memenangi hati setiap pengundi

******************* Dengan nama Allah Yang Maha Pemurah Lagi Maha Penyayang; selawat dan salam ke atas junjungan besar Nabi Muhammad s.a.w. ****************** Renungan ***************** "Apabila seorang manusia meninggal dunia, terputuslah semua amalnya kecuali tiga perkara iaitu sedekah jariah, ilmu yang bermanfaat dan anak soleh yang mendoakannya." (Hadis laporan Muslim) ************************** SEKARANG ini sambutan rakyat terhadap majlis terutama ceramah terbuka Pakatan Rakyat sangat hebat. Ribuan, puluhan malah ratusan ribu rakyat membanjiri tapak majlisnya. ************************** Perkembangan ini sangat mengujakan, memberi isyarat bahawa Pakatan Rakyat dalam landasan betul untuk berkuasa di Putrajaya selepas 5 Mei ini. ************************** Namun perlu diingatkan bahawa sudah acap kali suasana sedemikian rupa tidak tepat untuk diterjemahkan bahawa undi keada Pakatan akan berlimpah ruah pada hari pengundian nanti. **************************** Pada beberapa siri pilihan umum termasuk pilihan raya kecil lalu menunjukkan bahawa kehadiran besar-besaran itu, tidak dapat dijadikan sandaran kepada kejayaan Pakatan. ************************ Misalnya, ceramah terbuka ketika pilihan raya kecil di Bagan Pinang dan Merlimau, mendapat sambutan hebat tetapi keputusan undian tidak memberangsangkan! *************************** Pemerhati dan penganalisis berpendapat antara kaedah berkesan adalah kepentingan parti dan calon untuk mempunyai 'personal touch' dengan pengundi. Ini bermakna program ziarah rumah ke rumah amat penting; jangan biarkan seorang pun pengundi tidak ditemui. ************************** Demikian juga dengan majlis berkelompok kecil juga dapat membantu. Hati pengundi perlu dimenangi secara peribadi; oleh itu kaedah 'personal touch' ini, insya-Allah akan membuahkan hasil walaupun ceramah besar-besaran tetap mempunyai kesannya. Namun kita tidak mahulah menang sorak, tetapi cita-cita ke Putrajaya tidak kesampaian!

'Barakah' in licking your fingers...

************************* In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful; blessings and peace be upon Prophet Muhammad s.a.w. *********************** Reflection ************************ The Declining Day (Al-'Asr) 1. By the declining day, 2. Lo! Man is in a state of loss, 3. Save those who believe and do good works, and exhort one another to truth and exhort one another to endurance. ********************** In Malaysia election time is a fiesta like situatioh and it is a common practise during gatherings and meetings that food would be spread on the table. *********************** As for the coming 13th general election, nomination day would be on April 20th and during the campaigning period until the D-day on May 5th, there are bound to be 'kenduris' (feasts) here and there; sometimes in a village or housing estate there would be two or more 'kenduris' held on the same day. So food and drinks would flow freely and at times sadly the food would be go to waste. ********************* Then there would be individuals and groups trying to show off their weath and popularity, but normally it would be for cheap publicity for example to have their names and feats engraved in the Malaysia Book of Records (MBR) by preparing and making food items such as the longest yee sang (prosperity toss) or biggest 'ketupat' (rice cook inside wrappings made from coconut leaves) in the world. It's ok if the food is channelled properly and consumed by the needy, but on most occassions, the food goes into the dustbin and drain. ************************ Not long time ago, it was reported that the Melaka State Constituency (Dun) of Sungai Rambai had craved that its name be in the MBR for cooking a giant 'ketupat' which weighed 1,800 kilogramme and was 1.2 meters tall. Imagine the wastage of time and resources just to project one's name - 630 kilogrammes of rice was cooked in 21 large pots from 3.00 p.m to 4.00 a.m. The projects was undertaken by 12 people and it took two days to prepare for the neccessary items and ground work. It was reported, the 'ketupat' was distributed to the people in that state constituency but tell me frankly who would want to comsume it? *********************** If in our country good food is wasted, it has been reported that one person in the world dies every three seconds because of hunger. So wasting of food is criminal. But how is the situation in our country where the word ‘hunger’ seemed ‘quite unfamiliar’ to us. ************************ The lavish 'kenduris' including during election time create an immense a mount of waste. Malaysian especially Muslims should be reminded to be moderate with food. Muslims should not be involved in such a wastage project, they should be reminded that they are accountable for five things before the coming of five. The Prophet (pbuh or s.a.w.) said: "Take benefit of five before five - your youth before your old age, your health before your sickness, your wealth before your poverty, your free-time before your preoccupation,and your life before your death." (Hakim) *************************** So do not indulge in such empty, hollow and unbeneficial deeds, for Allah SWT says in Surah Al-Asr: "Verily! Man is in loss, Except those who believe and do righteous good deeds, and recommend one another to the truth (i.e. order one another to perform all kinds of good deeds which Allah has ordained, and abstain from all kinds of sins and evil deeds which Allah has forbidden), and recommend one another to patience (for the sufferings, harms, and injuries which one may encounter in Allah's cause)." ************************** During 'kenduri' especialy if the host gives a buffet style one, there are guests who heap their plates. As there is too much food put on their plates, many would not be able to finish it and finally the food is thrown away. Don’t Muslims realise that food is Allah SWT greatest gift for humans and that we will be questioned on Judgement Day, 'akhirat', on our wasting nature? ********************** Remember Allah SWT decree in Surah Al A’raaf, sentence 3, "Eat and drink, but not in excess. Allah does not like people who are superfluous". Whereas Surah Al Israa’, sentences 26 and 27 states, "And do not waste, as those who waste are the devil’s friends". ********************* Proper cosumption including give to poor or needy people is the best amongst any sadqa (charity). Talking about proper cosumption of food, I was amazed when during a 'tazkirah' (lesson) at a masjid near my house recently when the 'ustaz' (religious teacher) told congregators not to be astonished with great slogans of Western entities such as 'finger lickin' good' (sedap sehingga menjilat jari) because Prophet Muhammad s.a.w. who lived more than 1,400 years ago, has recommended us to lick our fingers after we have finish our food. ********************** The ustaz who was engaging in 'muzakarah' (discussion) on the 'kitab' (book) Badru Mazi written by local renowned Malay scholar, Sheikh Muhammad Idris Rauf Marbawi, told his class that there is 'barakah' (blessing) when one practises the 'sunnah' of Rasul that is to eat with three fingers and after finishing the food, lick our fingers. ******************* He told congregators perhaps there are enzymes on our fingers and if we lick these fingers it would help in the digestion process. We went on to say that is a well known fact that food contacted with our hands would become stale easily; this proves that our fingers have 'certain properties' and when we lick it after finishing our food, it helps in digestion. ********************* In a hadith, Ibn `Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him or r.a.) reported: the Messenger of Allah (s.a.w.) said, "When one of you finishes eating, he should not wipe his fingers until he has licked them himself or has given them to someone else to lick for him." (Al-Bukhari and Muslim) *********************** The Messenger of Allah (s.a.w.) instructed his followers that after taking meal they should lick up their fingers before they wash or wipe them with a towel. Or they may get them licked by somebody - wife, son or disciple - provided he or she feels no aversion to doing so. Since the Messenger of Allah (s.a.w.) approved of this act, it is commendable. *********************** In another hadith, Jabir (may Allah be pleased with him) reported: the Messenger of Allah (s.a.w.) commanded the licking of fingers and the gleaning of the dish, saying, "You do not know in which portion the blessing lies." (Muslim). *********************** This hadith underlines the wisdom behind licking the fingers and the vessel. The eater never knows whether a blessing underlies what has been eaten by him, or the particles sticking to his fingers and vessels contain it. Those particles, therefore, should not be wasted; they should be made part of food by being licked. They may be invested with a blessing and proved more useful for the eater's health and strength. Moreover, by this way he escapes disregarding the Bounty of Allah. ********************** The ustaz also said it is recommended to pick up the morsel which has fallen and eat it. "There's 'barakah' in taking the food, perhaps that food is the most blessed from our share," he said. ******************* In a hadith, Jabir (r.a.) reported: the Messenger of Allah (s.a.w.) said, "When a morsel of any of you falls, he should pick it up and remove any of the dirt on it and then eat it, and should not leave it for Satan nor should wipe his hand with towel until he has licked his fingers, for he does not know in what portion of the food the blessing lies." (Muslim) *********************** This hadith tells us to pick up a fallen morsel and eat it after cleaning the dirt that may have stuck on it. This marks the expression of humility overcoming Satan as well as getting the blessing. *********************** Present-day Muslims hardly care for this directive of the Messenger of Allah (s.a.w.) because they think that this act will bring disgrace and dishonour upon them. To make matters worse, they throw away a large quantity of unconsumed food in street dumps and dunghills and drains. ********************** They even deem it necessary to leave over some food in plates and dishes, still less of licking them. What a pity, the Muslim community has gone far away from the teachings and excellent example of their Prophet (s.a.w.)!

Kelip-kelip Kg Kuantan 'dengar' kebaikan wakil PAS...

********************* DENGAN nama Allah Yang Maha Pemurah Lagi Maha Penyayang; selawat dan salam ke atas junjungan besar Nabi Muhammad s.a.w. *********************** Renungan ********************** Hadis diriwayatkan oleh Ibnul Abdul Barr dan Abu Naim bermaksud: Telah bersabda Rasulullah s.a.w.;“Dua golongan daripada umatku, apabila mereka baik, baiklah manusia dan apabila mereka rosak, rosaklah manusia. Itulah dia pemimpin dan ahli fiqh (ulama).” ********************* Kemasyhuran kelip-kelip Kuala Selangor (lebih tepat lagi Kampung Kuantan) sudah diketahui penulis melalui pembacaan sejak puluhan tahun lalu. Walaupun berhajat menyaksikan dengan mata kepala sendiri fenomena kehebatan alam yang membuktikan betapa hebat dan agungnya Sang Pencipta, penulis tidak sampai di Kampung Kuantan sehinggalah beberapa hari lalu ketika gegak gempita pilihan raya menguasai suasana negara. ********************************** Dipendekkan cerita, maka naiklah penulis sekeluarga tiga beranak di atas sebuah perahu dengan seorang anak muda sebagai pendayung, menyusuri Sungai Selangor bagi menyaksikan keajaiban makhluk serangga ciptaan Illahi itu. Kembara di permukaan air sungai selepas solat jamak maghrib/isyak di Masjid Kampung Kuantan yang terletak bersebelahan 'taman kelip-kelip' sungguh mendamaikan, langit gelap tetapi sejumlah bintang dan anak bulan kelihatan. ************************* Kelip-kelip, ya apa yang penulis tahu tentang serangga yang juga dikenali sebagai kunang-kunang ini? Selain lagu Si Kunang-Kunang oleh Francissa Peter, lama dulu semasa menaiki kereta api mel malam dari selatan ke utara ketika penulis menuntut di sebuah sekolah berasrama penuh di utara tanah air, melalui tingkap terpandanglah satu dua 'cahaya' (kelip-kelip) berterbangan di pucuk-pucuk kayu; tetapi kali ini apabila penulis memandang ke langit memerhatikan pucuk-pucuk kayu, tidak kelihatan pun 'cahaya-cahaya' itu. ************************ Mana pula kelip-kelip Kuala Selangor ini, getus penulis. "Sana tu bang," tunjuk isteri penulis ke rumpunan pokok rendang. Pelik, kelip-kelip Kampung Kuantan ini bukanlah 'di atas' seperti agakan penulis tetapi berada di rimbunan pokok yang kemudian diberitahu oleh si anak muda pendayung sebagai pohon berembang. Kumpulan kelip-kelip itu 'mengelipkan' cahaya bagaikan serentak, senada; terpesona mata melihatkan pesta alam yang bagaikan 'pohon Krismas' itu. *************************** Ada muda pendayung membetulkan tanggapan penulis dengan berkata, kelip-kelip itu tidaklah mengerlipkan cahaya secara serentak tetapi oleh kerana terlalu banyaknya serangga itu, cahaya yang keluar dilihat sebagai serentak, senada. Hakikatnya ada serangga yang tidak mengerlipkan cahaya ketika 'rakan mereka' berbuat demikian. ************************** Suatu ketika sedang menikmati keindahan malam dihiasi cahaya kelip-kelip, kedengaran azan isyak berkumandang di udara, ooh, alangkah syahdunya suasana ketika kami berada di permukaan air Sungai Selangor itu. ************************* Demikianlah, dari sepokok ke sepokok perahu lintasi bagi membolehkan kami melihat secara dekat kelip-kelip. Ketika inilah kami berbual-bual pelbagai hal dengan si pendayung yang tanpa ditanya dan duga, beliau memuji wakil rakyat PAS yang katanya bekerja kuat di kawasan berkenaan. ************************* Saya pun berfikir siapa wakil rakyat yang dimaksudkan itu (sebelum Parlimen dibubarkan pada 3 April lalu) melainkan Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad (ahli Parlimen Kuala Selangor) kerana ketiga-tiga Adun dalam Parlimen Kuala Selangor bukannya daripada PAS. Mereka adalah Khalid Ibrahim (wakil rakyat Ijok yang juga MB Selangor) manakala Bukit Melawati wakil rakyatnya Muthiah Pillay daripada KeADILan dan wakil rakyat Jeram adalah Amiruddin Setro daripada Umno-BN. ************************ Jadi, sahlah yang berbuat baik itu Dr Dzul, tahniah Dr, jasa Dr dipuji oleh orang tidak dikenali dan tiada berkepentingan yang sudah pasti tidak mengharapkan apa-apa balasan pun. Apapun kelip-kelip Kampung Kuantan 'juga ada mendengar' pujian kepada Dr. ********************** Sehubungan itu didoakan Dr mencapai kemenangan gemilang pada PRU13 ini dan pastikan Dr tidak lupa berbakti dan berjasa termasuk kepada 'pemuda pendayung' dan rakannya dalam industri berkenaan serta 'kelip-kelip' Kuala Selangor!

Steering ourselves onto His straight path

********************** In the name of Allah, Most Merciful, Most Compassionate; blessings and peace be upon Prophet Muhammad s.a.w. ********************** Reflection *********************** “Invite to the way of your Rabb with wisdom and beautiful preaching; and argue with them in ways that are best and most gracious, for your Rabb knows best, who have strayed from His Path, and who receive guidance." (An-Nahl: 125) ************************** IF one is alert while traveling from Melaka city to 'Perigi Hang Tuah' (Hang Tuah Well) in Kampung Duyong via the Semabok Dalam Road, 'insya-Allah' (God willing), one would notice a 'surau' (small masjid) by the roadside with a prominient sign 'Surau Haji Hamid'. ********************** Well, dear readers, that surau was named after my maternal grandfather. The surau is a 'wakaf' (donated for religious purpose building) by my mother's father who had passed away years before I was born. He died when my mother was only nine years old. ******************* I mentioned this surau to readers while writing this article on Wednesday night (3rd April) after sensing strange feelings inside me while attending a 'tazkirah' (Islamic lesson) at a masjid near my house where the 'ustaz' (religious teacher) told congregators that they needed to perform good deeds as much as possible. ********************* It was because in the Hereafter, we need a lot of 'pahala' (rewards for good deeds done) to 'finance' ourselves during our 'long long journey' before we would rewarded with Paradise or thrown into Hell (nauzubillah - God forbid)). He told us for example during the journey on 'Siratulmustakim' (a very small bridge through the hell to heaven), it would took us 3,000 years in an ascending position, 2,000 years descending and 1,000 years in a flat condition. ************************* "Well, do not even think that our lives would be comfortable in the Hereafter if we fail to do things that would please Allah SWT during our lifetime. Terrible things would be awating us; so do not live in this world without preparing for our death or worst of all there are people taking their own lives (commiting suicide) thinking that death would end their sufferings," said the ustaz. ********************** Yes, we needed a lot of 'pahala' in the Hereafter where our worldly possessions are of no use. Other than obeying Allah's order and avoiding His prohibitions during our existence in the word, there are three things that would still benefit a Muslim even after his/her death. ********************** The Messenger of Allah (s.a.w.) said: “When a man dies, his deeds come to an end except for three things: Sadaqah Jariyah (ceaseless charity); knowledge which is beneficial; or a virtuous descendant who prays for him (the deceased).” [Sahih Muslim] ********************** Well dear readers, when the ustaz mentioned about ceaseless charity, I remembered the surau that was given as a 'wakaf' by my grandfather. The surau was there before I was born in 1962. So it must be more than half a century old. Insya-Allah (God willing), my grandfather would reap the reward from his investment all those long years even though he passed away a very very long time ago. ********************** Thinking about the surau, I saluted my grandfather's deeds and question myself on what have I done to have 'pahala' being credited into my account even after my death. I was afraid that I have nothing; that's made me very scared because death is very near to each of us; there is only a little separation between being alive and being dead. ********************** Afraid of being not able to leave something beneficial to relatives, friends and readers, I quickly reached for my computer and wrote this article hoping that it would be one of my contributions that would be beneficial to me in the Hereafter. ********************* Since the 13th general election is around the corner; I would like to remind myself and readers to 'steer ourselves and our families members in His straight path' as the process towards establising an 'Islamic environment and insya-Allah an Islamic government', begins at home. ************************ Allah SWT says in the Qur'an: "O! You who believe, save yourself and your families from Hell-fire, whose fuel are humans and stones (idols) over which are are (appointed) angels stern (and) severe, who flinch not (from executing) the Commands they recieve from Allah, but do (precisely) what they are commanded." (At-Tahrim 66:6) ********************* My family too was not spared from discussing the coming general elections. During a session, I carefully listened to what my mother had to say. She commented on the saying "kalau bagi duit ambil, kalau bagi gula kacau, kalau bagi sarung ambil, tetapi apabila undi, undi PAS" (if they give money take it, if they give sugar or sarung take them too, but when it comes to voting, vote for PAS) ********************** My mother pointed out that it is important for Muslims to verify the source of income or the food that makes it on the family's table - it must be free from any form of 'syubahat', or if one is unsure it is adviseable not to take or consume it. ********************* She said when we take the bribe for the very first time, our hearts will be a little blackened, but if we keep on doing it, our hearts would be hardened and it will finally be eclipsed from the truth. ********************* My mother was afraid that the bribes given by the political parties concerned, would have blackened the people's hearts. Their hearts are now more receptive to the fancies and fantasies of the world, and they are constantly in awe of the worldly benefits offered by those 'have all' parties. ********************* "If our heart had been blackened, how are we going to live according to the Islamic principles, for example when choosing leaders?" she asked. "We will blindly choose whoever is willing to please our desires (nafs)." ********************* She then asked us to do 'muhasabah' (check ourselves) including our families, whether we haved lived according to the Islamic way of life. *********************** "It is important because if we want Islam as a rule of law, we must make sure that it begins with our family especially the children," she said. **************** Well dear readers, our children are our 'assets' in the Hereafter. We must also leave behind contributions; perhaps a 'wakaf' in the form of a 'masjid', 'surau' or a 'tahfiz' school. If we can't build a 'surau' like my grandfather why not contribute generously to such projects!

Jadikan 'yang sedikit menewaskan yang banyak' sebagai penyemarak

******************** DENGAN nama Allah Yang Maha Pemurah Lagi Maha Penyayang; selawat dan salam ke atas junjungan besar Nabi Muhammad s.a.w. ********************* Renungan ********************* Hadis riwayat Abu Hazim, daripada Abu Hurairah yang dikeluarkan oleh Muslim, bermaksud: "Tidak akan hancur dunia ini (kiamat) hingga ada seorang laki-laki yang melewati kuburan lalu ia berguling-guling di atasnya seraya berkata, 'alangkah baiknya sekiranya aku berada di tempat penghuni kubur ini.' Hal ini bukan kerana faktor agama tetapi kerana adanya musibah." ********************* Bersyukur kita ke hadrat Illahi kerana dipanjangkan usia, maka dapatlah kita bermuzakaran isu semasa pada ketika gegak gempita pilihan raya umum ke-13 (PRU13). ************************** Berdasarkan pemerhatian kita sejak sekian lama lebih-lebih lagi selepas Parlimen dibubarkan 3 April lalu, pertarungan pilihan raya yang buat pertama kali menyaksikan dua kumpulan utama (Barisan Nasional dan Pakatan Rakyat) berentap, tidak berlangsung di padang sama rata. Ketidak-samarataan ini adalah dalam pelbagai aspek di mana kerajaan sementara yang diamanahkan kepada BN seperti masa-masa lalu bertindak mengeksploitasi segala jentera kerajaan. **************************** Di bidang hebahan dan propaganda, kerajaan sementara BN memperkuda badan penyiaran seperti RTM dan menjadikan media massa bagaikan sayapnya. Media massa perdana bukan lagi sebagai sumber maklumat dan informasi tetapi jentera propaganda berdakyah siang malam menyebarkan kehendak dan arahan orang atasan. ************************** Fitnah menjadi mainannya, soal halal haram tolak ketepi asalkan pemimpin dan parti dijulang ke puncak kuasa dengan pihak dicela tidak diberi ruang dan peluang langsung untuk bersuara apatah lagi membela diri. Pemimpin BN bebas berkokok menceritakan kehebatan manifesto di samping menghina pemimpin saingan dalam siaran langsung hampir semua stesen TV dan radio selama lebih sejam tetapi hanya bersedia meluangkan masa 10 minit rakaman untuk pesaing membentangkan manifesto. Pemimpin tertingginya pandai memfitnah dan mengata pesaing; tetapi apabila diajak bersemuka dan berdebat tidak berani pula! **************************** Apakah hukum rimba yang dipakai ini, budak sekolah hingusan pun tahu apa makna keadilan - semua murid akan diberikan masa yang sama bagi menyelesaikan sesuatu tugasan. Apakah adil jika ada murid diberi masa 10 minit manakala yang lain 180 minit? *************************** Bagi kita BN akan menyalah-gunakan 'segala-galanya' bagi menang dalam PRU13 ini. Dari segi zahirnya, pihak inilah yang paling kuat, paling berkuasa, paling ramai pengikut dan penyokongnya dan segala macam paling lagi tetapi ingatlah sepanjang sejarah Islam kerap benar berlaku 'yang sedikit dapat menewaskan yang ramai' dan 'yang nampak lemah dapat menewaskan yang nampak gagah perkasa'. ************************* Perang Badar adalah iktibar terbaik bagi umat Islam. Dalam peperangan yang menentukan hidup-mati Islam ini, pasukan Muslimin seramai 313 orang dapat menewaskan musuh Musyrikin Makkah lebih 1,000 orang. Demikian juga dalam peperangan lain seperti Khandaq dan pada zaman moden ini menyaksikan bagaimana Mujahidin Afghanistan yang kekurangan dalam serba serbi dapat mengundurkan tentera Soviet Union. ***************************** Kekuatan iman dengan keyakinan jitu kepada Allah SWT termasuk melalui doa adalah senjata ampuh pasukan Muslimin. Demikianlah bagi menghadapi musuh yang zahirnya kelihatan hebat dengan segala perlengkapannya termasuk memperkudakan prasarana milik kerajaan, pergantungan kejap kepada Allah SWT adalah jalan terbaik untuk kita selamat dunia dan akhirat. *************************** Sehubungan itu, kita menyambut baik langkah sesetengah pihak dalam PAS menyediakan panduan petugas bagi menghadapi PRU13. Kita berpendapat arahan untuk mendekatkan diri dengan Allah SWT melalui amalan murni seperti solat berjemaah, solat malam, beristighfar, zikir ma'thurat dan membaca al-Quran amat berkesan untuk mendapat perhatian-Nya seterus memakbulkan hajat kita. Insya-Allah hanya dengan pertolongan-Nya kita akan mencatat kejayaan gemilang pada PRU13 ini.

Antara imam 5 minit dan imam 5 tahun...

******************** Dengan Nama Allah Yang Maha Pemurah Lagi Maha Penyayang, selawat dan salam ke atas junjungan besar Nabi Muhammad s.a.w. ********************** Renungan ******************** "Wafatkanlah aku dan keadaan Islam dan gabungkanlah aku dengan orang-orang saleh." (Maksud Ayat 101 Surah Yusuf) ********************** ANTARA tujuh golongan yang mendapat lindungan Arasy Allah SWT adalah imam (pemimpin) yang adil. Abu Hurairah r.a. meriwayatkan bahawa Rasulullah s.a.w. bersabda yang maksudnya:” Terdapat tujuh golongan yang akan mendapat lindungan arasy-Nya pada hari yang tiada lindungan melainkan lindungan daripada-Nya. ************************* "Mereka adalah imam (pemimpin) yang adil; pemuda yang masanya dihabiskan untuk beribadah kepada Allah SWT; seseorang yang hatinya terpaut pada masjid; dua lelaki yang berkasih sayang dan bertemu dan berpisah kerana Allah SWT; lelaki yang digoda oleh perempuan cantik dan berpengaruh untuk melakukan maksiat tetapi dia menolak dengan mengatakan dia takutkan Allah; seseorang yang bersedekah dan menyembunyikannya sehinggakan tangan kanannya tidak mengetahui apa yang diberikan oleh tangan kirinya; dan seseorang yang mengingati Allah ketika bersendirian sehinggakan mengalir air matanya kerana Allah SWT.” (Riwayat Imam Muslim) ************************* Setiap imam (pemimpin) dipertanggungjawabkan dan akan dipersoalkan di akhirat kelak. Maka bergembiralah kepada mana-mana imam (pemimpin) yang dapat berlaku adil. Pemimpin adalah daripada setinggi-tinggi kedudukan (raja, presiden dan perdana menteri) sehinggalah seorang hamba yang bertanggungjawab ke atas harta tuannya. ************************** Kini demam memilih imam (pemimpin) sedang melanda negara kita. Malah PM Sementara, Najib Razak sebagai pemimpin (imam) tertinggi Barisan Nasional (BN) dalam menyampaikan manifesto komponen partinya yang disiarkan secara langsung selama 180 minit (sedangkan pembangkang ditawarkan membentangkan manifesto selama 10 minit itupun secara rakaman) oleh sejumlah stesen televisyen, beberapa hari lalu, secara terbuka mencabar rakyat sama ada memilih beliau, Anwar Ibrahim (Ketua Umum KeADILan) dan Tuan Guru Abdul Hadi Awang (Presiden PAS). *************************** “Inti pati PRU13 adalah sama ada kebolehpercayaan rakyat memberi kepercayaan kepada (Dato' Seri) Anwar Ibrahim atau Dato' Seri Hadi (Awang) atau saya sebagai Perdana Menteri," ungkap Najib. ****************************** Imam (pemimpin) wajar dipilih daripada kalangan orang terbaik, sama ada dari segi ilmu dan akhlak malah penampilannya. Jika imam masjid atau sesuatu jemaah (masa bertugasnya lima minit setiap solat) dipilih di kalangan ‘orang baik-baik’ adakah kita mahu 'cincai' saja dalam memilih imam (pemimpin) yang akan mengetuai tindak tanduk seluruh warga negara selama lima tahun (satu penggal pemerintahan sebelum pilihan raya berikutnya). Juga yang akan bertanggungjawab di akhirat kelak. *************************** Jika PM Sementara Najib sudah melontarkan pertanyaan terbuka (siapa menjadi pilihan anda sama ada Najib sendiri, Anwar atau Ustaz Hadi), ingin pula saya utarakan satu pertanyaan; jika orang yang sangat rapat dan kita kasihi meninggal dunia, di kalangan ketiga-tiga tokoh ini, kita pilih siapa menjadi imam solat jenazahnya? Jawablah secara jujur; apatah kita pilih Imam Najib, Imam Anwar atau Imam Hadi? Demikian juga siapa kita mahu jadikan imam solat waktu (lima minit)kita? ************************ Terpulanglah kepada pembaca untuk memilih siapa menjadi imam solat jenazah, imam lima minit (solat waktu berjemaah) dan imam lima tahun (pemerintah) tetapi ingatlah bahawa segala apa yang kita lakukan tidak berakhir di dunia ini sahaja tetapi akan berpanjangan di akhirat sana. Setiap orang akan dikumpulkan bersama orang (termasuk pemimpin-imam) yang dikasihinya. Sekali lagi tanya diri kita secara jujur, kita mahu dikumpulkan bersama siapa; Imam Najib, Imam Anwar atau Imam Hadi? ********************* Jika kita hanya memilih orang baik-baik untuk menjadi imam solat tetapi memilih imam yang terlalu memberatkan hal-hal dunia termasuk melakukan perbuatan lara seperti berjoget 'gangnam style' atau lebih buruk lagi menjadi perasuah dan penyamun harta rakyat di belakang tabir, percayalah akan lahir umat yang baik semasa di masjid (atau ketika solat saja), tapi apabila keluar daripada lingkungan itu, mereka tidak lagi kenal batas dosa atau pahala. *********************** Berkenaan memilih pemimpin ini seorang tok guru pernah menasihatkan: “Kalau pilih imam solat, wah, kita cari orang yang betul-betul baik. Orang yang betul-betul kita yakini. Kita tak pilih orang kaki judi. Kita tidak pilih kaki botol. ************************ “Bagaimanapun apabila lantik pemimpin, ini imam juga, kita pilih yang tak baik. Kita pilih yang rasuah. Kita pilih yang tak amanah. Imam sembayang lima minit aja, tapi kita nak yang terbaik, tapi imam di luar sana, masanya panjang, mungkin lima tahun (satu penggal pilihan raya), takkan kita nak serahkan nasib kita pada pemimpin jenis ini. Hah, nanti di akhirat nanti ikutlah pemimpin jenis ini.” *********************** Kata seorang lagi tok guru, kewajipan solat diterima oleh Nabi Muhammad s.a.w. ketika Israk Mikraj, jadi ada kaitan antara ibadah itu dengan peristiwa-peristiwa yang dipertontonkan kepada Nabi s.a.w. sepanjang perjalanan ke Sidratul Muntaha. ********************** Kalau memilih imam solat (imam lima minit), kita pilih yang terbaik di kalangan kita, tentulah apabila memilih pemimpin (lima tahun), kita akan memilih yang terbaik. Oleh itu janganlah pembunuh, perasuah, kaki perempuan, kaki botol, kaki judi dan pelbagai kaki buruk lain dipilih sebagai imam (pemimpin) lima minit atau lima tahun!

Pak Non's writings captured my heart

********************** In the name of Allah, Most Merciful, Most Compassionate; blessings and peace be upon Prophet Muhammad s.a.w. ********************** Reflection ********************** "Anyone who obeys the Messenger has obeyed God..." (Nisaa 4:80) *********************** The demise of the Sun’s consultant and political editor, Zainon Ahmad, 70, fondly known as Pak Non or Cikgu Non on Wednesday 27th March, reminds me of my brief or perhaps 'loose' relation with him. Well, perhaps too it was a 'one sided affair' - he was a doyen in the field of journalism whereas I was only a 'cabuk' (not so efficient) reporter. ******************* When I joined the New Straits Times Press Group as a cadet reporter in 1986, he was already a towering figure there. Pak Non journalism career began when he joined the New Straits Times in 1978, and rose up the ranks to become its assistant group editor in 1997, and editorial consultant in 2001. *********************** Pak Non who was a teacher before entering the journalism world, joined the the Sun as its editor-in-chief in 2002. He was named Journalist of the Year by the Malaysian Press Institute for his coverage of the insurgency in southern Philippines in 1986, and received the Media Personality Award at the annual Kancil Awards in 2010, ************************* Zainon held a degree in History and a Masters' degree in international Relations from Universiti Malaya. He had also studied newspaper management at the Thomson Foundation, London and was a fellow of the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, Tuft University, Boston, US. He also represented Malaysia in many regional conferences, raising media-related issues. *********************** Despite his wealth of experience and eminence, having interviewed world leaders and covered high-profile events in modern history, Zainon was gracious and down-to-earth. ******************************* Since Pak Non and I worked for different flags of the company (he was with NST, I was with BH), I remember that only once did I entered his office room for some offical work). The other time I was with him was when both of us were assigned to cover an Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC) summit in Iran in 1997. ************************* Perhaps as individuals we were not close; but one thing that made my heart close to him was his writings. I like his style; in recent years when reading the Sun, I made sure not to miss his 'What They Say' column which featured lively conversations on current affairs. He was also good in his political commentaries especially on Parliament sessions. ************************ Years before that, when he was serving NST, I loved reading his travelouge series of the many countries he had visited especially remote parts of the world such as in North Africa. Yes, he was my 'guru' in writing; the irony of it was I had not even once attended his class or was coached by him; I have high respect for his writing, I am not shy to say at times I 'copied' his style. ************************* I followed his writings until his death, the last time I had the chance to speak to him and hear his thoughts was when he was invited as a panel during a journalism seminar organised by Harakah in July 2008. During a question and answer session of the seminar; I posed a very provocative question to him. ************************* I told Pak Non that as a regular and avid reader of the Sun, I was uneasy when reading the paper as it had prominient displays of advertisements on alcoholic drinks. *********************** This is what Pak Non have to answer: "Saya sudah utarakan pendapat saya kepada mereka (The Sun) tetapi nak buat macam mana. Saya pun tak tahu nak jawab dah. Ramai juga yang komplen dan hubungi saya. Saya harap suatu hari nanti ianya berubah. (I have passed the message to the top people in the Sun, but what to do. I too don't know how to answer. Many people have complained and called me. I hope one day, the situation would change)." ************************ As a person who have more than 30 years' experince in journalism, Pak Non in his talk, advised Harakah's staffs to produce a paper that would be read by all sectors of the people and not not just be thrown into the 'longkang' (drain) or be used to 'bungkus' (wrap) 'nasi lemak'. ********************* He said newspaper content must be of the best quality to satisty the needs of readers who are always thirsty for information and up-to-date news. **************************** "Every inch of the newspaper is of high value so there is no room for unworthy news and stories that do no cater the needs of the majority of people," said the much respected editor. ***************************** "What we want is a respected newspaper that is read by the people and being used to the maximum, not to be thrown into the drain," said Pak Non. ************************ "In the Sun, we have various columns to cater to the needs of different sections of people. Other than politics, we too have mothers' and teenagers' columns so that when the father had read the Sun, the paper would not be thrown away but would be brought home so that his family would benefit it." ********************* He also advised reporters to stretch to the maximum in their work with the time and money allocated to them. "All work must be done systematically and with proper plan," he said. ************************* Meanwhile the Sun reported that while receiving the Media Personality Award at the annual Kancil Awards in 2010, Pak Non had thanked the paper for giving him the space to write articles critical of the government's efforts to unite the nation. "Every year I become a little more serious in my pursuit of the truth, and bolder and braver in expressing it in my articles especially in my column," he said, emphasising his wish for a Malaysia for all regardless of their place of origin. ************************ In an interview given to theSun's former assistant news editor Jacqueline Ann Surin for The Nut Graph web portal last year, Zainon had recounted how growing up in the estates, where he acquired fluency in Tamil, had shaped his outlook and personality. *********************** "I believe in Malaysia. I believe in multi-racial Malaysia and I think that there is a place for everybody here. If, for instance, all the Indians or the Chinese suddenly decide to leave Malaysia, I think it won't be Malaysia," he said in the interview. ********************* Farewell Pak Non who was a true Malaysian; O Allah, forgive him, have mercy on him, give him peace and absolve him. Receive him with honor (in Paradise) and make his grave spacious. Cleanse him from faults as You would cleanse a white garment from impurity...Al-Fatihah, Ameen

Panduan pilihan raya: Fakta lebih kuat daripada kata-kata...

********************** Dengan Nama Allah Yang Maha Pemurah Lagi Maha Penyayang, selawat dan salam ke atas junjungan besar Nabi Muhammad s.a.w. *********************** Renungan ************************* "...dan Kami telah menurunkan kepadamu al-Kitab (al-Quran), untuk menjelaskan dan (juga memberi) petunjuk serta rahmat dan pengkhabaran gembira bagi orang-orang yang tunduk kepada-Nya." (Maksud Ayat 89 Surah an-Nahl) *************************** DI ambang pilihan raya ini banyak terhambur kata-kata manis dan molek-molek 'di mana-mana saja'. Demikian juga dengan perbuatan; misalnya bagi menunjukkan dia berjiwa rakyat ada pemimpin yang turun padang merelakan susuk tubuhnya beraksi menggoreng mi, menjual ikan, malah menoreh pokok getah dan makan bersama keluarga di gerai terbuka! ****************************** Berkenaan hal ini saya teringat apa ditulis oleh tokoh reformis Islam Mesir paling berpengaruh, Muhammad Abduh yang menyatakan terkejutnya beliau melihat percanggahan di antara prinsip-prinsip Eropah yang murni dengan agenda kolonialisnya. "Kami orang Mesir pernah mempercayai liberalisme Inggeris dan simpati Inggeris, namun kami tidak lagi mempercayainya kerana fakta lebih kuat daripada kata-kata. Kami melihat keliberalan kamu hanya untuk diri kamu sendiri, dan simpati kamu terhadap kami umpama serigala untuk biri-biri yang ia ternak untuk dimakan." ******************************* Berhubung apa yang diutarakan Muhammad Abduh ini terpulanglah kepada pembaca untuk mentafsirkannya. Ada pepatah Inggeris berbunyi, 'action speaks louder than words' (tindakan atau kelakuan lebih kuat daripada kata-kata). Jadi bagi menilai seseorang pemimpin itu, lihatlah kepada tindakan atau gaya hidupnya bukan semata-mata apa yang dicakap untuk ungkapkannya. Ini kerana lidah tidak bertulang, manusia membelitkan kata-kata, pandai bermain lidah, bersandiwara dan sebagainya. *************************** Bagi saya, perlakuan politikus (sesetengah pemimpin pemerintah) yang 'begitu bermurah hati' kepada rakyat dengan pelbagai 'hadiah' seperti BR1M dan 'sejenis dan sewaktunya' terutama di ambang pilihan raya ini bagaikan sama seperti diungkapkan oleh tokoh reformis Mesir itu: "simpati kamu terhadap kami umpama serigala untuk biri-biri yang ia ternak untuk dimakan ************************** Seperti British yang ada udang di sebalik batu pada setiap kebaikannya, saya bimbang sesetengah pemimpin kita juga bersikap demikian. Masakan tidak kerana pernah terhambur kata-kata seperti, "I help you, you help me" (Saya tolong kamu, kamu tolang saya). Apabila terkeluar ungkapan seperti ini, bermakna setiap kebaikan perlu dibalas. Apakah bentuk balasan itu, melainkan "kamu undilah saya atau pihak saya pada pilihan raya nanti." Itulah yang sebenarnya dikehendaki walaupun sesetengahnya pandai bermain lidah dengan berkata "ini tidak ada kena mengena dengan pilihan raya!" **************************** Fakta adalah lebih kuat daripada kata-kata - demikian ungkap Muhammad Abduh. Berdasarkan ini, marilah kita selidiki serba sedikit apa yang ungkapkan (kata-kata) pemimpin kita hari ini adalah fakta atau 'auta' (bohong). Saya tidak mempunyai statistik tetapi menulis berdasarkan pengamalan dan pengamatan. Pemimpin berkata, orang Melayu telah tertolong sejak Umno-BN berkuasa; saya membuka mata saya untuk melihat persekitaran kehidupan masyarakat Melayu di kampung saya hari ini. ************************ Jika dulu (tahun-tahun 1960-an dan 1970-an, keluarga saya (termasuk saya membanting tulang) mengusahakan sebidang sawah, hari ini tanah itu bukan milik kami lagi. Tanah itu dan tanah-tanah penduduk kampung lain telah di ambil alih sebuah agensi kerajaan negeri bagi memajukan tanah-tanah adat Melayu. Semasa urusan pengambilan tanah, penduduk kampung dipujuk pemimpin pemerintah kononnya tanah itu perlu dimajukan demi masa depan orang Melayu sendiri. ******************************* Hari ini terdirilah sebuah taman perumahan dan rumah-rumah kedai di bahagian hadapan taman. Apa yang menakjubkan tanah yang dulunya milik orang Melayu, apabila dibangunkan dengan ribuan rumah kediaman; hanya sejumlah kecil keluarga Melayu yang mendiaminya. Lebih malang, hampir tiada kedai di bahagian hadapan menempatkan orang Melayu sebagai pemilik atau penyewa. ********************************* Hakikatnya (berdasarkan penglihatan mata dan pengalaman saya sendiri) tanah sawah itu dulunya hak orang Melayu 100 peratus. Tetapi apa yang dikatakan oleh pemimpin-pemimpin Melayu yang berkuasa? Mereka mendabik dada kononnya mereka pembela bangsa dan agama paling hebat; mereka telah membangun dan memajukan orang Melayu tetapi hakikatnya tanah-tanah orang Melayu semakin rakus diambil alih. Tahun demi tahun semakin banyak tanah dan kampung orang Melayu di pinggir bandar diambil alih; seolah-olah orang Melayu tidak layak duduk di bandar hatta kawasan pinggirnya. Mungkin mereka layak duduk di pinggir atau dalam hutan layaknya. **************************** Demikian betapa benarnya, kata-kata Muhammad Abduh - fakta lebih kuat daripada kata-kata. Wahai pemimpin, memang benar desa kami telah mengalami pembangunan yang sangat hebat. Jalan rayanya lebar dan cantik dengan tali arus kenderaan yang tidak mengenal siang dan malam; bangunan dan perusahaan sungguh banyak didirikan; tetapi bukalah mata seluas-luasnya, tiadalah anak bangsa yang berniaga di kedai-kedai besar itu; mereka yang gigih masih di kedudukan sama - di gerai atau menjual pisang goreng dan air kelapa di tepi-tepi jalan. ****************************** Jadi tertolongkah seluruh bangsa atau sebilangan kecil kroni membesarkan tembolok dengan tergamak menjual dan mengadai tanah tak sekangkang kera anak bangsa dan negeri?

Election time: The truth in voting PAS...

*********************** In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful; blessings and peace be upon Prophet Muhammad s.a.w. ********************* Reflection ******************** The Declining Day (Al-'Asr) 1. By the declining day, 2. Lo! Man is in a state of loss, 3. Save those who believe and do good works, and exhort one another to truth and exhort one another to endurance. ************************ "Of course nasty things will be said by candidates against their opponents, the Opposition as a whole and the Government, but that makes the election more lively. ************************** "I heard a story about what happened in Kelantan. At the funeral of a local Umno leader, there was a huge turnout of PAS members - much to the surprise of Umno men. *********************** "After the grave had been filled and the funeral service (talkin) had been read, the mourners poured water on the newly-covered grave. Smoke came out of the grave to the astonishment of everybody. People panicked. ************************************ "PAS members quickly passed the word that the dead Umno man was being roasted in the fires of hell, and that would be the lot of every Umno man or Umno supporters who dies. ************************* "After the people left, Umno members examined the fresly-dug earth. They found some chemicals which would emit smoke when water was sprinkled on it. ************************ "How true the story is, I can't say. According to PAS, only people who vote for PAS will find peace in heaven." - Tunku Abdul Rahman in his book 'Something to Remember' (Eastern Universities Press Sdn Bhd) under the topic 'Where Barisan's Toughest Battle will be Fought' (page 181) *********************** According to PAS, only people who vote for PAS will find peace in heaven, so wrote the Tunku. Until this day when the 13th general election is around the corner, many Umno leaders still hold on to this false general statement. **************************** We must acknowledge that Islam is not only for the Malays or PAS members. If we hold to this statement, then Muslims in other countries for example in Saudi Arabia and China would not have the chance to enter Paradise because they have not voted PAS not even once in their life-time. ************************** So what is actually PAS struggling for? I lend my ears to the words of wisdom from top PAS leaders such as its 'Mursyidul Am' (Spiritual Leader), 'Tok Guru' (Beloved Teacher) Nik Abdul Aziz Nik Mat. *************************** The Tok Guru said Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) had brought the words of God and before him there was a line of prophets from Adam to Nuh (Noah), Ibrahim (Abraham), Daud (David), Musa (Moses) and Isa (Jesus). They were the main prophets from more than 124,000 prophets, all inviting mankind to the path of true peace and obedience to one true God. ********************************* The main prophets too had the ‘kitab’ (books of Allah) with the al-Qur’an which was revealed to Prophet Muhammad as the final guidance to mankind until ‘kiamat’ (end of the world). **************************** The Tok Guru stressed that human beings are weak and unknowledgeable so they had to depend on Allah SWT who at His mercy sent prophets and His books as their guidance. He said the job of human beings was to follow and obey Allah SWT instructions contained in the Qur’an and examples shown by the Prophet s.a.w. ******************************** Regarding elections in the country, the tok guru said there were reasons why only citizens aged 21 years and above are eligible to vote. It means only those who have reach ‘akil baligh’ (coming of age, around 15 years old) could have a hand in choosing leaders at constituency, state and federal level. “So only those who have learnt ‘hukum agama’ (religious knowledge) and have the ability to think, could vote.” *************************** “Voters are not children that could be coaxed by giving sweets. They are adults, they are responsible for their deeds – if they do good things they will be rewarded (pahala) and if they do bad things they will be punished (dosa). Regarding these, we must follow Prophet Muhammad’s step in all aspects of life, including politics.” *********************************** The Tok Guru said when Prophet Muhammad s.a.w. ‘hijrah’ (migrated) to Madinah, the first step he took was building Masjid Quba’ where all activities including politics were discussed there. “So there’s no separation between religion and politics, contradict to claims by Umno leaders who were in favor of nationalism. ******************************** “Those who are for ‘politik suku, agama suku’ (separating politics from religion) are on the wrong course,” said the Tok Guru. ****************************** He said PAS struggle is to uphold the Prophet’s teaching including in politics. Everyone is answerable to their deeds; even in voting, one is subjected to be rewarded and punished. *************************** “Since our electoral system allowed only citizen of 21 years of age and above to vote, it is our responsibility to make them fully aware of their responsibilities in life where everything they do will be accounted for; they will be rewarded and punished accordingly in the Hereafter. ************************ “So voters are not children that could be coaxed easily by giving them sweets; but Umno-BN treat them just like children, they give them money, projects and pledges,” said the Tok Guru. *********************** Just like what the Tunku was told of a story that he even could not clarified (regarding the smokey grave), nowadays it is common for Umno leaders to make mockery stories on PAS. Some dared to say that PAS stands for ‘Perosak Agama Sendiri’ (Destroyer of Own Religion), 'Parti Ajaran Sesat' (A Deviated Party) and its leaders as ‘Pemimpin Ajaran Sesat’ (Leader of Deviated Sect). *********************** The fact is PAS is constant in its struggle to have the words of Allah implemented in this country. As Muslims we should obeyed all Allah SWT words in the Qur’an. Allah SWT has given us warning on this matter in one Qur’anic verse where He warns us not to become like the Children of Israel who disobey some of Allah SWT’s commandments in the Taurah, as stated in Ayah 85 Surah Al-Baqarah which reads; “…Then is it only a part of the Book that ye believe in, and do ye reject the rest? But what is the reward for those among you who behave like this but disgrace in this life? And on the Day of Judgment they shall be consigned to the most grievous penalty. For Allah is not unmindful for what ye do.” *************************** In the following verse (Ayah 86 Al-Baqarah), Allah SWT says: “Such are those who buy the life of the world at the price of the Hereafter. Their punishment will not be lightened, neither will they have support.” ************************ Are our lives truly guided by the Qur’an? Or are we good in taking what we think are good to us and ignoring what we feel bad? Regarding this, Allah the Almighty warns in Surah al-Baqarah 2:85, that to accept some part of the Qur’an and to reject some is to reject all of it. There is no room for partial acceptance in your relationship with the Qur’an; there cannot logical be. ***************************** Muslims should have no reservations in implementing all of Allah SWT commands including hudud law and preventing ‘mungkar’ (sins). Having reservation on any of Allah SWT’s commands is a clear violation of our oath, the ‘syahadah’, that we will submit and obey all of Allah SWT’s commands. ************************* So submit to the words of Allah even when one is performing his/her duty as an elector. You would be rewarded by The Almighty (given 'pahala') if you are in His straight path, if you deviated, then you would be punished (burdened with dosa or sin) by Him; so the allegation that "only people who vote for PAS will find peace in heaven" is not refective of the actual situation.