What causes youth to turn to violence? Is it due due to the neglect of parents? Is it due to the system of education? Is it due to peer pressure? Is it due to the failure of society to stop violence from breeding more violence?
Glenn Lim who is a youth specialist consultant and adjunct lecturer preparing for his Doctorate in Criminology, as well as a Commonwealth Youth Ambassador (Asean) and Singapore Youth Award 2005 winner explores the subject of gang violence in Singapore in an article on Today Online.
Saturday, December 04, 2010
Saturday, July 17, 2010
Gandhi's Seven Deadly Sins
Mahatma Gandhi said that seven things will destroy a society. (Link)
1)Wealth without work
2)Pleasure without conscience
3)Knowledge without character
4)Commerce (business) without morality (ethics)
5)Science without humanity
6)Religion without sacrifice
7)Politics without principle
All of these conditions are evident in the social and political fabric of our society today.
Now we have freedom of speech and freedom of assembly. We have the separation of powers and we have independent institutions, still in the early stages of the democratic process. With the new found freedoms our society is on the brink of anarchy.
What is the price to pay for a free society?
Parents can no longer raise their children with sound values. Illegal drugs and violence have become rampant in our society. Personal morality is in a state of flux, with social pressures causing individuals to define "good" and "bad" as they deem fit. This is having a profound negative effect on our culture regarding the individual character development of our younger generation.
Now we want security and freedom from fear. We want a civil society to live in. We need the enforcement of law and order. We want our elected officials and politicians to be honourable in their words and conduct.
That would be a good starting point to restore honour into our community.
1)Wealth without work
2)Pleasure without conscience
3)Knowledge without character
4)Commerce (business) without morality (ethics)
5)Science without humanity
6)Religion without sacrifice
7)Politics without principle
All of these conditions are evident in the social and political fabric of our society today.
Now we have freedom of speech and freedom of assembly. We have the separation of powers and we have independent institutions, still in the early stages of the democratic process. With the new found freedoms our society is on the brink of anarchy.
What is the price to pay for a free society?
Parents can no longer raise their children with sound values. Illegal drugs and violence have become rampant in our society. Personal morality is in a state of flux, with social pressures causing individuals to define "good" and "bad" as they deem fit. This is having a profound negative effect on our culture regarding the individual character development of our younger generation.
Now we want security and freedom from fear. We want a civil society to live in. We need the enforcement of law and order. We want our elected officials and politicians to be honourable in their words and conduct.
That would be a good starting point to restore honour into our community.
Thursday, July 01, 2010
Saudi clerics battle over fatwas
Saudi's ultra-conservatives hold on to old views as Islamic progressives push for modern fatwas.
"Clerics have opened up a pitched battle in Saudi Arabia over who can issue fatwas, or religious edicts, as hardline and progressive religious scholars, judges and clerics have taken the fight public.
Much of the fight in the past week has focused on a fatwa endorsing music issued by Adel al-Kalbani, a Riyadh cleric famed as the first black imam at the Grand Mosque in Mecca, Islam's holiest city.
Kalbani, popular for his soulful baritone delivery of Koranic readings, said he found nothing in Islamic scripture that makes music "haram", or forbidden.
But, aside from some folk music, public music performance is banned in Saudi Arabia, and some ultra-conservatives say it is forbidden even in the home.
"There is no clear text or ruling in Islam that singing and music are haram," Kalbani said.
Also in recent weeks, a much more senior cleric, Sheikh Abdul Mohsen al-Obeikan, raised hackles with two of his opinions.
First, he endorsed the idea that a grown man could be considered like a son of a woman if she breast-feeds him.
The issue is seen by some as a way of getting around the Saudi religious ban on mixing by unrelated men and women.
It brought ridicule and condemnation from women activists and Saudi critics around the world.
But Obeikan, a top advisor in the court of King Abdullah, who is believed to be supportive of less severe rules in his kingdom, also angered ultra-conservatives when he said the compulsory midday and mid-afternoon prayer sessions could be combined to help worshippers skirt the intense heat of summer.
While the choice is allowed for individuals in certain circumstances, conservatives say such a broad ruling for everyone is wrong.
The comments by Obeikan and Kalbani brought rebukes from top-level clerics in a debate that has erupted into freewheeling public discussions in the media and on the Internet. " More of this article on Middle East Online
"Clerics have opened up a pitched battle in Saudi Arabia over who can issue fatwas, or religious edicts, as hardline and progressive religious scholars, judges and clerics have taken the fight public.
Much of the fight in the past week has focused on a fatwa endorsing music issued by Adel al-Kalbani, a Riyadh cleric famed as the first black imam at the Grand Mosque in Mecca, Islam's holiest city.
Kalbani, popular for his soulful baritone delivery of Koranic readings, said he found nothing in Islamic scripture that makes music "haram", or forbidden.
But, aside from some folk music, public music performance is banned in Saudi Arabia, and some ultra-conservatives say it is forbidden even in the home.
"There is no clear text or ruling in Islam that singing and music are haram," Kalbani said.
Also in recent weeks, a much more senior cleric, Sheikh Abdul Mohsen al-Obeikan, raised hackles with two of his opinions.
First, he endorsed the idea that a grown man could be considered like a son of a woman if she breast-feeds him.
The issue is seen by some as a way of getting around the Saudi religious ban on mixing by unrelated men and women.
It brought ridicule and condemnation from women activists and Saudi critics around the world.
But Obeikan, a top advisor in the court of King Abdullah, who is believed to be supportive of less severe rules in his kingdom, also angered ultra-conservatives when he said the compulsory midday and mid-afternoon prayer sessions could be combined to help worshippers skirt the intense heat of summer.
While the choice is allowed for individuals in certain circumstances, conservatives say such a broad ruling for everyone is wrong.
The comments by Obeikan and Kalbani brought rebukes from top-level clerics in a debate that has erupted into freewheeling public discussions in the media and on the Internet. " More of this article on Middle East Online
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Saturday, May 01, 2010
Back to basics: Going on Naked Foot
What a better way to celebrate the barefoot walking and running of our ancestors than by going barefoot?
Is this barefooting another fitness craze?
Harvard Professor Daniel Lieberman has done the research. He suggests that the bare human foot is better able to withstand the impact of running than fancy cushioned sneakers can. He has already converted to barefoot running. Listen to him on the video.
Another study which appeared in the journal Nature, describes the mechanics of running barefoot, or with minimal footwear, and how it can actually help prevent injury.
Many people think modern running shoes are necessary in order to run safely and comfortably, but they were invented only in the 1970s. Before then, running shoes were just simple running flats that had little cushioning, no arch support, and no built-up heel. Humans were running for millions of years, apparently safely, in thin sandals, or in no shoes at all. The research indicates that they may have been able to do so by forefoot or midfoot striking.
There was a time when barefoot walking was considered to be immodest and was frowned upon by people. Not any longer. In the ultra modern age we live in, this situation has changed. Although barefoot walking is still more commonly seen in the poorer countries, the barefoot craze has hit the developed countries too. Today, there is a complete society, called 'Society of Barefoot', dedicated to the cause of walking barefoot.
In Singapore, Habitat for Humanity in partnership with Barclays has organised a 5 km Barefoot Charity Walk, "Bare Your Sole 2010 on 5 June 2010" to build lives, homes and fight poverty.
Barefoot walking has come full circle. What goes around comes around and the human beings seem to be turning to its roots.
Link Home Barefoot Walking
Is this barefooting another fitness craze?
Harvard Professor Daniel Lieberman has done the research. He suggests that the bare human foot is better able to withstand the impact of running than fancy cushioned sneakers can. He has already converted to barefoot running. Listen to him on the video.
Another study which appeared in the journal Nature, describes the mechanics of running barefoot, or with minimal footwear, and how it can actually help prevent injury.
Many people think modern running shoes are necessary in order to run safely and comfortably, but they were invented only in the 1970s. Before then, running shoes were just simple running flats that had little cushioning, no arch support, and no built-up heel. Humans were running for millions of years, apparently safely, in thin sandals, or in no shoes at all. The research indicates that they may have been able to do so by forefoot or midfoot striking.
There was a time when barefoot walking was considered to be immodest and was frowned upon by people. Not any longer. In the ultra modern age we live in, this situation has changed. Although barefoot walking is still more commonly seen in the poorer countries, the barefoot craze has hit the developed countries too. Today, there is a complete society, called 'Society of Barefoot', dedicated to the cause of walking barefoot.
In Singapore, Habitat for Humanity in partnership with Barclays has organised a 5 km Barefoot Charity Walk, "Bare Your Sole 2010 on 5 June 2010" to build lives, homes and fight poverty.
Barefoot walking has come full circle. What goes around comes around and the human beings seem to be turning to its roots.
Link Home Barefoot Walking
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Monday, April 05, 2010
A Gripping Love Saga
There is a feeding frenzy in the celebrity-hungry media of India and Pakistan over the Pakistani cricket star Shoaib Malik who is set to marry Indian tennis ace Sania Mirza next week.
Shoaib Malik is facing an investigation in his fiancee's home country over allegations he harassed a woman who has claimed to be his wife, police said Monday.
Malik is currently in the southern Indian city of Hyderabad for his wedding to Mirza. Police commissioner A.K. Khan told CNN that officials have launched a probe into a complaint filed on behalf of Ayesha Siddiqui, who is Indian.
Siddiqui has accused Malik of "harassment, cheating and criminal intimidation," Khan said. Immigration authorities will be alerted to the investigation, as Malik is a foreigner, he said. Officials have taken a statement from the former Pakistan captain, police said.
Siddiqui claims Malik married her by telephone eight years ago and is seeking a divorce. Malik maintains he was deceived and the marriage is invalid, saying the agreement was based on a series of photos sent to him -- photos he claims were not of Siddiqui.
Malik and Mirza, in a joint news conference Monday in Hyderabad, said their April 15 wedding will be held as scheduled. Malik vowed to cooperate fully with Indian investigators and said he would stay in India until the probe is complete. (Link)
Shoaib Malik is facing an investigation in his fiancee's home country over allegations he harassed a woman who has claimed to be his wife, police said Monday.
Malik is currently in the southern Indian city of Hyderabad for his wedding to Mirza. Police commissioner A.K. Khan told CNN that officials have launched a probe into a complaint filed on behalf of Ayesha Siddiqui, who is Indian.
Siddiqui has accused Malik of "harassment, cheating and criminal intimidation," Khan said. Immigration authorities will be alerted to the investigation, as Malik is a foreigner, he said. Officials have taken a statement from the former Pakistan captain, police said.
Siddiqui claims Malik married her by telephone eight years ago and is seeking a divorce. Malik maintains he was deceived and the marriage is invalid, saying the agreement was based on a series of photos sent to him -- photos he claims were not of Siddiqui.
Malik and Mirza, in a joint news conference Monday in Hyderabad, said their April 15 wedding will be held as scheduled. Malik vowed to cooperate fully with Indian investigators and said he would stay in India until the probe is complete. (Link)
Sunday, April 04, 2010
Freedom of Speech and Hate Speech
Maldives has embraced freedom of speech as espoused by the democracies of the western Europe and the United States of America. For the citizens of these countries, this type of democracy- the liberal democratic model requires effective guarantees of freedom of speech, press, religion, assembly, petition and of equality before the law.
The First Amendment of the United States constitution prohibits the government from regulating the content of speech, subject to a few recognized exceptions such as defamation and incitement to riot. Even in cases where speech encourages illegal violence, instances of incitement qualify as criminal only if the threat of violence is imminent. In Canada, Europe and other countries, hate speech is, outside the law, any communication which disparages a person or a group on the basis of some characteristic such as race or sexual orientation. In law, hate speech is any speech, gesture or conduct, writing, or display which is forbidden because it may incite violence or prejudicial action against or by a protected individual or group, or because it disparages or intimidates a protected individual or group.
In Maldives, those who pushed for the multi-party system for political governance did so because of the popular revulsion against the previous all-encompassing domination by the same government that remained in power for 30 years.
Now we have political parties and we do have freedom of speech. Political parties and their politicians are the catalytic agents that make democracies workable.
The two main political parties in Maldives, the ruling MDP and the opposition DRP and their allies disagree about nearly every issue, just for the sake of disagreement. The parliament is in gridlock and no beneficial work gets done. It polarizes the public who are supporters of these political parties. As we saw recently, the country was on the verge of erupting into violence consequent to the fist fighting inside the parliament. Cynics claim that every speech, every vote, every single thing these politicians do is for the sake of political posturing to help them get elected the next term, or help their party motives.
Journalists of the free media have an important responsibility to educate the public about various issues from all sides, using logic, reason and analysis to determine the different points of view. The public can then make informed decisions about the policies of the different political parties. The opposition political party should compete by offering better ideas and solutions rather than just becoming the party of saying 'no' to everything that the government does.
Maldives needs to find a way stop the the hate speech mostly driven by politics between the political parties. One way to do this is by the enforcement of legislation against hate speech. Our members of the parliament in the interest of the public good need to legislate to determine the acceptable boundaries of free speech. Also what kinds of speech should be considered out of bounds subject to prosecution.
Read this article "When free speech means hate speech" to understand how bad this situation is in the United States of America. There are hate-mongers both on the left and the right of the political divide in America who make a living by spewing hatred in the name of free speech.
The First Amendment of the United States constitution prohibits the government from regulating the content of speech, subject to a few recognized exceptions such as defamation and incitement to riot. Even in cases where speech encourages illegal violence, instances of incitement qualify as criminal only if the threat of violence is imminent. In Canada, Europe and other countries, hate speech is, outside the law, any communication which disparages a person or a group on the basis of some characteristic such as race or sexual orientation. In law, hate speech is any speech, gesture or conduct, writing, or display which is forbidden because it may incite violence or prejudicial action against or by a protected individual or group, or because it disparages or intimidates a protected individual or group.
In Maldives, those who pushed for the multi-party system for political governance did so because of the popular revulsion against the previous all-encompassing domination by the same government that remained in power for 30 years.
Now we have political parties and we do have freedom of speech. Political parties and their politicians are the catalytic agents that make democracies workable.
The two main political parties in Maldives, the ruling MDP and the opposition DRP and their allies disagree about nearly every issue, just for the sake of disagreement. The parliament is in gridlock and no beneficial work gets done. It polarizes the public who are supporters of these political parties. As we saw recently, the country was on the verge of erupting into violence consequent to the fist fighting inside the parliament. Cynics claim that every speech, every vote, every single thing these politicians do is for the sake of political posturing to help them get elected the next term, or help their party motives.
Journalists of the free media have an important responsibility to educate the public about various issues from all sides, using logic, reason and analysis to determine the different points of view. The public can then make informed decisions about the policies of the different political parties. The opposition political party should compete by offering better ideas and solutions rather than just becoming the party of saying 'no' to everything that the government does.
Maldives needs to find a way stop the the hate speech mostly driven by politics between the political parties. One way to do this is by the enforcement of legislation against hate speech. Our members of the parliament in the interest of the public good need to legislate to determine the acceptable boundaries of free speech. Also what kinds of speech should be considered out of bounds subject to prosecution.
Read this article "When free speech means hate speech" to understand how bad this situation is in the United States of America. There are hate-mongers both on the left and the right of the political divide in America who make a living by spewing hatred in the name of free speech.
Monday, March 29, 2010
A Great Lesson in Grit and a Record for Endurance
Nanyang Technological University(NTU) Singapore went the extra mile to raise funds for their students. NTU's 218 km ultramarathon was run round Singapore Sunday to celebrate its 55th anniversary. The total distance equal to 5 marathons is Singapore’s longest run and it raised $218,000 for the school’s bursary fund.
Physics teacher Yong Yuen Cheng, 38, was the fastest finisher in a time of 31 hours, 28 minutes and 51 seconds. Five out of the nine core runners finished the awesome distance within the cut off time of 36 hours.
This is a classic case of no-pain, no-gain moment. It's the mind over matter. It's the remarkable ability of the human spirit to transcend the limitations set by the mind- pain and suffering in this case. Toenail problems, blistered feet, a hurt knee, strained left quadriceps and diarrhoea were just some of the challenges that Yong Yuen Cheng overcame to complete the 218km gruelling feat without any sleep.
Despite the risk of injury, what drives relentless runners to do these ultra-distances and challenge their physical limits?
One of the nine core runners representing the NTU alma mater is MediaCorp Chinese news editor 56-year-old Lim Nghee Huat. Lim is no stranger to the marathon scene and has conquered miles in Brazil and Jordan. During the the three month period of training for this event, Lim said, "As daunting as it may seem to some, Mr Lim has these words of encouragement to those who are keen to take up the challenge.
He said: "I think from time to time, we should redefine the boundaries of our limits. If we don't try, we won't know what our limits are."
A fitting reply to the above question also comes from Yong Yuen Cheng when he said, "I do endurance races to let people know that no matter how ordinary you are, you can do something extraordinary."
While the NTU can immortalise the unwavering determination and perseverance of the core runners and the support group who helped runners endure the arduous ultramarathon, this feat also holds loads of positives and inspiration for everyone else, especially for those wishing to excel in their chosen path of life, be it sports, education or any other field.
"Run when you can, walk when you have to, crawl if you must, just never give up." American ultramarathon runner Dean Karnazez.
Physics teacher Yong Yuen Cheng, 38, was the fastest finisher in a time of 31 hours, 28 minutes and 51 seconds. Five out of the nine core runners finished the awesome distance within the cut off time of 36 hours.
This is a classic case of no-pain, no-gain moment. It's the mind over matter. It's the remarkable ability of the human spirit to transcend the limitations set by the mind- pain and suffering in this case. Toenail problems, blistered feet, a hurt knee, strained left quadriceps and diarrhoea were just some of the challenges that Yong Yuen Cheng overcame to complete the 218km gruelling feat without any sleep.
Despite the risk of injury, what drives relentless runners to do these ultra-distances and challenge their physical limits?
One of the nine core runners representing the NTU alma mater is MediaCorp Chinese news editor 56-year-old Lim Nghee Huat. Lim is no stranger to the marathon scene and has conquered miles in Brazil and Jordan. During the the three month period of training for this event, Lim said, "As daunting as it may seem to some, Mr Lim has these words of encouragement to those who are keen to take up the challenge.
He said: "I think from time to time, we should redefine the boundaries of our limits. If we don't try, we won't know what our limits are."
A fitting reply to the above question also comes from Yong Yuen Cheng when he said, "I do endurance races to let people know that no matter how ordinary you are, you can do something extraordinary."
While the NTU can immortalise the unwavering determination and perseverance of the core runners and the support group who helped runners endure the arduous ultramarathon, this feat also holds loads of positives and inspiration for everyone else, especially for those wishing to excel in their chosen path of life, be it sports, education or any other field.
"Run when you can, walk when you have to, crawl if you must, just never give up." American ultramarathon runner Dean Karnazez.
Sunday, March 14, 2010
British couple kiss goodbye to freedom in Dubai
This was a kiss worth prison time. A Dubai Misdemeanours Court has sentenced the Brits to one month in jail followed by deportation for kissing and touching at a restaurant in Jumeirah Beach Residence- the luxury waterfront homes complex that offers retail outlets, restaurants, sports and health clubs.
Marketing executive Ayman Najafi,24 claimed that all he did was peck the cheek of the British tourist Charlotte Lewis,25. The judge handed out the sentence after hearing the written evidence of a local woman who called the cops alleging she saw them kissing on the lips.
The couple will appear in the appeal court today to contest the verdict.(Link)
Marketing executive Ayman Najafi,24 claimed that all he did was peck the cheek of the British tourist Charlotte Lewis,25. The judge handed out the sentence after hearing the written evidence of a local woman who called the cops alleging she saw them kissing on the lips.
The couple will appear in the appeal court today to contest the verdict.(Link)
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Optimism for Islamic Insurance-Takaful
The 5th Asian Takaful Conference is underway in Singapore from 9-10 Mar 2010. The Conference Theme: "Reality Check on Growth and Promise of Takaful as a Dynamic Force"
Industry executives are optimistic about the growth prospects of Islamic insurance or takaful which offers a mutual, co-operative type of insurance.
Total takaful contributions only account for just one percent of the global insurance market.
But this is expected to increase significantly, thanks to growing interest among Muslims and non-Muslims alike in shariah-compliant investment and insurance products. (Link)
Industry executives are optimistic about the growth prospects of Islamic insurance or takaful which offers a mutual, co-operative type of insurance.
Total takaful contributions only account for just one percent of the global insurance market.
But this is expected to increase significantly, thanks to growing interest among Muslims and non-Muslims alike in shariah-compliant investment and insurance products. (Link)
Sunday, March 07, 2010
Democracy is not enough
Looking at the problems we face in Maldives today, it now seems that getting to the democracy is the easy part. This is only the beginning of the democratization process, i.e., the separation of powers and the building of independent institutions that reinforce democratic values. We now have the separate powers, but each power has more than sufficient to still cause tyranny to the people who gave them the power.
Reducing the civil servants pay while the commissioners of the independent commissions decided to increase their wages and while the elected members of the parliament refused to even consider to take a pay cut stands out as a glaring injustice forced out on the ordinary civil servants.
Recently the Ministry of Economic Development pushed to permit sale of alcohol in inhabited islands against strong opposition from the Islamic Ministry and several civil society organisations and many members of the public who petitioned the government against such permit because of the widespread problems of drug abuse, violence and killings that even the president has acknowledged. Granted that we are on a learning curve of the multi-party pluralistic system of governance, what we saw in this case is still an appalling level of incoherent behaviour between two ministries of the same government. Under pressure from the mass public protest, the government had to heed the battle cry against the sale of alcohol in inhabited islands and was forced to change policy.
Today, civil servants are back on the street protesting to restore their pay cut, hoping that the government would take cue from them and heed their call as well.
To be a democratic country, a country has to choose its leaders through fair and competitive elections, ensure basic civil liberties, and respect the rule of law.
After a free and fair election of the country's first multi-party presidential contest, we have had a peaceful transition in 2008. Rewind 30 years back, in 1978 we also had a peaceful transition in the nation's top job. We have since learnt that everything good in a democracy does not come just by changing the political guard in a peaceful transition. Disingenuous politicians, their ignorance and careful evasion of issues have left behind for future generations a host of intractable challenges. On top of the social list, an illegal drug epidemic affecting more than 30,000 youth most of whom are addicted to drugs. The present government needs to do more to provide care and rehabilitation to the addicts. In order to tackle the illegal drug business, stricter deterrent sentences have to given to those who are trafficking and selling illegal drugs. Unfortunately, the judiciary that is not functioning as it should is making this woeful legacy even worse by not meting out stricter deterrent sentences against hardcore drug trafficking criminals.
History has shown us that the democratization takes time because it requires the development of new institutions and widespread trust in them by the citizens. In the United States and Britain, it took well over a century before all the institutions and democratic practices were firmly in place. In Maldives in order for the nascent democracy to take roots, our government has to initiate the process of inculcating democratic ideals of trust, tolerance, and cooperation starting with young children from homes and schools. The challenge to build a culture of peace depends on the ability of a community to settle disagreements and resolve conflicts without waging violence.
We have a long way to go, but we are on our journey of the democratization process.
Reducing the civil servants pay while the commissioners of the independent commissions decided to increase their wages and while the elected members of the parliament refused to even consider to take a pay cut stands out as a glaring injustice forced out on the ordinary civil servants.
Recently the Ministry of Economic Development pushed to permit sale of alcohol in inhabited islands against strong opposition from the Islamic Ministry and several civil society organisations and many members of the public who petitioned the government against such permit because of the widespread problems of drug abuse, violence and killings that even the president has acknowledged. Granted that we are on a learning curve of the multi-party pluralistic system of governance, what we saw in this case is still an appalling level of incoherent behaviour between two ministries of the same government. Under pressure from the mass public protest, the government had to heed the battle cry against the sale of alcohol in inhabited islands and was forced to change policy.
Today, civil servants are back on the street protesting to restore their pay cut, hoping that the government would take cue from them and heed their call as well.
To be a democratic country, a country has to choose its leaders through fair and competitive elections, ensure basic civil liberties, and respect the rule of law.
After a free and fair election of the country's first multi-party presidential contest, we have had a peaceful transition in 2008. Rewind 30 years back, in 1978 we also had a peaceful transition in the nation's top job. We have since learnt that everything good in a democracy does not come just by changing the political guard in a peaceful transition. Disingenuous politicians, their ignorance and careful evasion of issues have left behind for future generations a host of intractable challenges. On top of the social list, an illegal drug epidemic affecting more than 30,000 youth most of whom are addicted to drugs. The present government needs to do more to provide care and rehabilitation to the addicts. In order to tackle the illegal drug business, stricter deterrent sentences have to given to those who are trafficking and selling illegal drugs. Unfortunately, the judiciary that is not functioning as it should is making this woeful legacy even worse by not meting out stricter deterrent sentences against hardcore drug trafficking criminals.
History has shown us that the democratization takes time because it requires the development of new institutions and widespread trust in them by the citizens. In the United States and Britain, it took well over a century before all the institutions and democratic practices were firmly in place. In Maldives in order for the nascent democracy to take roots, our government has to initiate the process of inculcating democratic ideals of trust, tolerance, and cooperation starting with young children from homes and schools. The challenge to build a culture of peace depends on the ability of a community to settle disagreements and resolve conflicts without waging violence.
We have a long way to go, but we are on our journey of the democratization process.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Pushing the Religious Envelope
A day after the Ministry of Economic Development lifted the ban on sale of alcohol in the inhabited islands, the President's Office has weighed in under public pressure. President's Office says it will not be implemented until it is published in the government gazette. Critics see this as a cynical move fearing a public uproar as they say that the Economic Development Ministry's position is the government's stand on this highly sensitive and polarising issue.
This is the government's way of pushing the envelope to test the limits of public acceptance of a 100 per cent Muslim society. Until now alcohol is freely available in all the tourist resorts. It is a perverse logic for the Economic Ministry to say that lifting the ban to allow sale of alcohol in authorised hotels of inhabited islands will bring an end to the black market created by the permits given to foreigners to buy and consume alcohol in their homes. We already have an epidemic of substance abuse and drug addiction affecting more than one-third of our youth. With such weak laws and even weaker implementation and enforcement of them, lifting the ban will only lead to another complicated phenomenon- alcoholism, another devastating social problem.
This is the government's way of pushing the envelope to test the limits of public acceptance of a 100 per cent Muslim society. Until now alcohol is freely available in all the tourist resorts. It is a perverse logic for the Economic Ministry to say that lifting the ban to allow sale of alcohol in authorised hotels of inhabited islands will bring an end to the black market created by the permits given to foreigners to buy and consume alcohol in their homes. We already have an epidemic of substance abuse and drug addiction affecting more than one-third of our youth. With such weak laws and even weaker implementation and enforcement of them, lifting the ban will only lead to another complicated phenomenon- alcoholism, another devastating social problem.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
A struggle to find the truth
Like many other societies that needed to achieve closure on a past of oppression while simultaneously working toward national reconciliation and nation building, Maldives too has to face this difficult challenge. Both President Nasheed and Vice President Waheed have publicly spoken about this difficult task faced by the government. There are many Maldivians who feel that past injustices and human right violations should be dealt with properly, in order to avoid a repeat of such cruel behaviour. As the Spanish philosopher George Santayana said, "Those who cannot learn from history are doomed to repeat it." But just how does a nation take the very painful and challenging road to the truth?
When South Africa emerged from more than four decades of apartheid, they turned to the concept of a truth commission. South Africa’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) is one of the best examples of restorative justice. Established in 1995, the TRC was charged with investigating gross human rights abuses that occurred between 1960 and 1994 so as to create as complete an accounting as possible of the atrocities of that period. Perpetrators were offered amnesty in exchange for full disclosure about their past crimes. This was part of a political compromise between the African National Congress and the outgoing apartheid government led by the National Party that was deemed necessary for a peaceful transition to democracy. This form of restorative justice emphasized reconciliation between perpetrators and victims built ideally on a perpetrator’s repentance and a victim’s forgiveness. Ultimately, it was hoped, the South African nation as a whole would likewise become reconciled.
This concept of a truth commission despite criticisms from some human rights and victims groups has worked for South Africa that went through tremendous upheaval, and needed to heal old wounds and bring closure.
East Timor also known as Timor-Leste, the first new nation of the 21st century is going through a painful struggle to bring national reconcilliation after the country suffered some of the worst atrocities of modern times during the Indonesian occupation. Timor-Leste’s president José Ramos-Horta, who survived an assassination attempt in February 2008, fears that prosecuting those responsible for atrocities could create serious instability in the fledgling state, as well as damage relations with its main trading partner Indonesia.
In a lecture at the MIT's Legatum Center for Development and Entrepreneurship, Ramos-Horta who won 1996 Nobel Peace Prize said:
“I’m happy to endure criticism from the ultrapatriots of international justice who want to make East Timor a guinea pig of international justice. I will not be part of that. ... Let’s put all the past behind us -- look after the victims, the wounded, in their minds, bodies and souls, build a country that is deserving of so much sacrifice. Chasing the ghosts of the past leads us nowhere.”
During President Ramos-Horta's recent visit to Maldives, the Maldivian leaders would have learnt about the reconciliation process of Timor-Leste. Such a process acknowledges past mistakes including regret and forgiveness as a product of a path inherent in the process of achieving justice. It is also a process which should break the cycle of accusation, denial and counter-accusation. This process needs to be seen only for conflict resolution and truth should be the final outcome. It seeks justice and not retribution. It should not be used as a political tool to gain political advantage by political parties.
When South Africa emerged from more than four decades of apartheid, they turned to the concept of a truth commission. South Africa’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) is one of the best examples of restorative justice. Established in 1995, the TRC was charged with investigating gross human rights abuses that occurred between 1960 and 1994 so as to create as complete an accounting as possible of the atrocities of that period. Perpetrators were offered amnesty in exchange for full disclosure about their past crimes. This was part of a political compromise between the African National Congress and the outgoing apartheid government led by the National Party that was deemed necessary for a peaceful transition to democracy. This form of restorative justice emphasized reconciliation between perpetrators and victims built ideally on a perpetrator’s repentance and a victim’s forgiveness. Ultimately, it was hoped, the South African nation as a whole would likewise become reconciled.
This concept of a truth commission despite criticisms from some human rights and victims groups has worked for South Africa that went through tremendous upheaval, and needed to heal old wounds and bring closure.
East Timor also known as Timor-Leste, the first new nation of the 21st century is going through a painful struggle to bring national reconcilliation after the country suffered some of the worst atrocities of modern times during the Indonesian occupation. Timor-Leste’s president José Ramos-Horta, who survived an assassination attempt in February 2008, fears that prosecuting those responsible for atrocities could create serious instability in the fledgling state, as well as damage relations with its main trading partner Indonesia.
In a lecture at the MIT's Legatum Center for Development and Entrepreneurship, Ramos-Horta who won 1996 Nobel Peace Prize said:
“I’m happy to endure criticism from the ultrapatriots of international justice who want to make East Timor a guinea pig of international justice. I will not be part of that. ... Let’s put all the past behind us -- look after the victims, the wounded, in their minds, bodies and souls, build a country that is deserving of so much sacrifice. Chasing the ghosts of the past leads us nowhere.”
During President Ramos-Horta's recent visit to Maldives, the Maldivian leaders would have learnt about the reconciliation process of Timor-Leste. Such a process acknowledges past mistakes including regret and forgiveness as a product of a path inherent in the process of achieving justice. It is also a process which should break the cycle of accusation, denial and counter-accusation. This process needs to be seen only for conflict resolution and truth should be the final outcome. It seeks justice and not retribution. It should not be used as a political tool to gain political advantage by political parties.
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Tiger Woods Played By Different Rules
In the USA, the celebrity-obsessed culture is constantly fed by the mass news media which permeates to far reaching corners of the globe setting trends for the rest of the world to follow this repulsive obsession. The Tiger Woods apology posted on his website has proven yet again that the rich and powerful do have an advantage over the rest of the population- infidelity in relationships included among others.
"I knew my actions were wrong, but I convinced myself that normal rules didn't apply," Woods admitted talking about his numerous sexual indiscretions and reckless behaviour. “I thought I could get away with whatever I wanted to. I felt that I had worked hard my entire life and deserved to enjoy all the temptations around me. I felt I was entitled. Thanks to money and fame, I didn’t have to go far to find them. I was wrong. I was foolish. I don’t get to play by different rules.”
Tiger Woods has made history on and off the golf course since he joined the PGA Tour in 1996. First up was a record $40 million contract from Nike. The following year he won the Masters by a record 12 strokes, becoming the youngest winner ever and first black player to take the title. His career has been packed full of accomplishments, including major titles (14), annual money titles (9) and Player of the Year awards (9). Woods is also the first athlete to earn $1 billion.
Tiger Woods is now a billion dollar brand. In his carefully scripted self-loathing apology, it is not surprising that Woods also apologized to his business partners.
Behavior expert and physician Drew Pinsky who has co-authored the book "The Mirror Effect: How Celebrity Narcissism Is Seducing America" has given a very interesting take on the cultural influence of celebrity narcissism; a culture whose young emulate the behavior of celebrity models.
In answer to a question in an interview, "What do you mean by the "mirror effect," and why do you say it's a problem?"- Drew says:
"I've been working with celebrities many, many years. I've treated many for chemical dependency and the like. They have profound childhood trauma. It's not something to do with their job or the life they lead. They just happen to be people driven to seek celebrity as a way to make themselves feel better. Then the question becomes, why are we preoccupied with this population? This points toward the mirror. We, too, have been increasingly narcissistic. I speculate that that's what drives us toward this phenomenon of elevating people to almost god-like status. It's not so much that it's the glamour we like focusing on — rather it's the dysfunction. We're taking someone who needs to be a god and making them a god. Then we spend all our energy tearing them down."
Celebrity narcissism, the term narcissism meaning that a person is totally absorbed in self sets a bad example for kids who view these celebrities as role models.
Cricket Star Adam Gilchrist who was nominated as the Australian of the Year has hit out at the obsession with instant celebrities who are famous only for being on YouTube.
Gilchrist urged the nation to embrace role models of substance.
The chairman of the Australia Day Council said only people who showed sustained effort over many years to make Australia a better place should be put on a pedestal.
Gilchrist told a gala dinner at Parliament House, marking the 50th anniversary of the Australian of the Year award, that celebrity worship was a worry.
"As our obsession with celebrity continues to grow, renown seems to come these days, for some at least, on the back of a few minutes of outrageous behaviour or a funny clip on YouTube," he said.
In the very tightly controlled stage set where Tiger Woods addressed his scandal for the first time, he has also demonstrated how skilled he is at dodging and ducking personal questions. Even though he said that he does not get to play by different rules, by his refusal to take any questions from reporters he has contradicted himself and confirmed that indeed he plays by different rules.
"I knew my actions were wrong, but I convinced myself that normal rules didn't apply," Woods admitted talking about his numerous sexual indiscretions and reckless behaviour. “I thought I could get away with whatever I wanted to. I felt that I had worked hard my entire life and deserved to enjoy all the temptations around me. I felt I was entitled. Thanks to money and fame, I didn’t have to go far to find them. I was wrong. I was foolish. I don’t get to play by different rules.”
Tiger Woods has made history on and off the golf course since he joined the PGA Tour in 1996. First up was a record $40 million contract from Nike. The following year he won the Masters by a record 12 strokes, becoming the youngest winner ever and first black player to take the title. His career has been packed full of accomplishments, including major titles (14), annual money titles (9) and Player of the Year awards (9). Woods is also the first athlete to earn $1 billion.
Tiger Woods is now a billion dollar brand. In his carefully scripted self-loathing apology, it is not surprising that Woods also apologized to his business partners.
Behavior expert and physician Drew Pinsky who has co-authored the book "The Mirror Effect: How Celebrity Narcissism Is Seducing America" has given a very interesting take on the cultural influence of celebrity narcissism; a culture whose young emulate the behavior of celebrity models.
In answer to a question in an interview, "What do you mean by the "mirror effect," and why do you say it's a problem?"- Drew says:
"I've been working with celebrities many, many years. I've treated many for chemical dependency and the like. They have profound childhood trauma. It's not something to do with their job or the life they lead. They just happen to be people driven to seek celebrity as a way to make themselves feel better. Then the question becomes, why are we preoccupied with this population? This points toward the mirror. We, too, have been increasingly narcissistic. I speculate that that's what drives us toward this phenomenon of elevating people to almost god-like status. It's not so much that it's the glamour we like focusing on — rather it's the dysfunction. We're taking someone who needs to be a god and making them a god. Then we spend all our energy tearing them down."
Celebrity narcissism, the term narcissism meaning that a person is totally absorbed in self sets a bad example for kids who view these celebrities as role models.
Cricket Star Adam Gilchrist who was nominated as the Australian of the Year has hit out at the obsession with instant celebrities who are famous only for being on YouTube.
Gilchrist urged the nation to embrace role models of substance.
The chairman of the Australia Day Council said only people who showed sustained effort over many years to make Australia a better place should be put on a pedestal.
Gilchrist told a gala dinner at Parliament House, marking the 50th anniversary of the Australian of the Year award, that celebrity worship was a worry.
"As our obsession with celebrity continues to grow, renown seems to come these days, for some at least, on the back of a few minutes of outrageous behaviour or a funny clip on YouTube," he said.
In the very tightly controlled stage set where Tiger Woods addressed his scandal for the first time, he has also demonstrated how skilled he is at dodging and ducking personal questions. Even though he said that he does not get to play by different rules, by his refusal to take any questions from reporters he has contradicted himself and confirmed that indeed he plays by different rules.
Saturday, February 13, 2010
Ignorance is not always a Bliss
Following article is from the Jakarta Times, marking the World Cancer Day on 4 February 2010.
"The public needs to realize that cancer is often preventable and treatable, including through changes in lifestyle, activists say.
“Many people still believe that when you have cancer you will die, and that’s it,” Melissa Luwia from the Indonesian Cancer Foundation (YKI) said during a rally to mark World Cancer Day, in Jakarta, on Thursday.
The general public also wasn’t fully benefiting from early detection and early treatment of cancer, she said.
“Some types of cancer, such as cervical cancer, if detected early, can be treated effectively,” Melissa said.
She added that many people were unaware that healthy habits, such as giving up smoking, avoiding overexposure to direct sunlight, maintaining a balanced diet and regular physical examinations, could help prevent cancer.
“People should realize that they have, and must make, choices. They can choose to eat food without preservatives, for example,” she said.
According to the International Union Against Cancer, each year more than 12 million people are diagnosed with cancer and 7.6 million die as a result of the disease.
However, 40 percent of cancers are preventable, YKI said. During the rally, YKI members and university students distributed leaflets promoting healthier lifestyles.
They also displayed a banner denouncing smoking, attracting passers-by in the busy area.
“Today we are trying to increase public awareness of the dangers of smoking, because it is one of the known causes of lung cancer,” Melissa said.
Indonesia’s Consumer Protection Foundation (YLKI) estimates that last year there were around 60 million smokers in Indonesia, and that 427,000 citizens died from smoking-related diseases."
The title of this article refers to an old English proverb- where ignorance is bliss, 'Tis folly to be wise. The phrase is used to mean what you do not know cannot hurt you. It is a quotation from the English poet Thomas Gray born December 26 1716 and died 30 June 1771 taken from the poem:
Ode on a Distant Prospect of Eton College
"To each his sufferings: all are men,
Condemn'd alike to groan—
The tender for another's pain,
Th' unfeeling for his own.
Yet, ah! why should they know their fate,
Since sorrow never comes too late,
And happiness too swiftly flies?
Thought would destroy their Paradise.
No more;—where ignorance is bliss,
'Tis folly to be wise."
"The public needs to realize that cancer is often preventable and treatable, including through changes in lifestyle, activists say.
“Many people still believe that when you have cancer you will die, and that’s it,” Melissa Luwia from the Indonesian Cancer Foundation (YKI) said during a rally to mark World Cancer Day, in Jakarta, on Thursday.
The general public also wasn’t fully benefiting from early detection and early treatment of cancer, she said.
“Some types of cancer, such as cervical cancer, if detected early, can be treated effectively,” Melissa said.
She added that many people were unaware that healthy habits, such as giving up smoking, avoiding overexposure to direct sunlight, maintaining a balanced diet and regular physical examinations, could help prevent cancer.
“People should realize that they have, and must make, choices. They can choose to eat food without preservatives, for example,” she said.
According to the International Union Against Cancer, each year more than 12 million people are diagnosed with cancer and 7.6 million die as a result of the disease.
However, 40 percent of cancers are preventable, YKI said. During the rally, YKI members and university students distributed leaflets promoting healthier lifestyles.
They also displayed a banner denouncing smoking, attracting passers-by in the busy area.
“Today we are trying to increase public awareness of the dangers of smoking, because it is one of the known causes of lung cancer,” Melissa said.
Indonesia’s Consumer Protection Foundation (YLKI) estimates that last year there were around 60 million smokers in Indonesia, and that 427,000 citizens died from smoking-related diseases."
The title of this article refers to an old English proverb- where ignorance is bliss, 'Tis folly to be wise. The phrase is used to mean what you do not know cannot hurt you. It is a quotation from the English poet Thomas Gray born December 26 1716 and died 30 June 1771 taken from the poem:
Ode on a Distant Prospect of Eton College
"To each his sufferings: all are men,
Condemn'd alike to groan—
The tender for another's pain,
Th' unfeeling for his own.
Yet, ah! why should they know their fate,
Since sorrow never comes too late,
And happiness too swiftly flies?
Thought would destroy their Paradise.
No more;—where ignorance is bliss,
'Tis folly to be wise."
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Liberty without Wisdom and without Virtue!
But what is liberty without wisdom, and without virtue?
It is the greatest of all possible evils;
for it is folly, vice, and madness, without tuition or restraint.
-- Edmund Burke
(1729-1797) Irish-born British statesman, parliamentary orator, and political thinker
Source: Reflections on the Revolution in France
Link: Liberty Quotes
It is the greatest of all possible evils;
for it is folly, vice, and madness, without tuition or restraint.
-- Edmund Burke
(1729-1797) Irish-born British statesman, parliamentary orator, and political thinker
Source: Reflections on the Revolution in France
Link: Liberty Quotes
Friday, February 05, 2010
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Has the Global Warming been Exeggarated?
The UN’s top climate change body, The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has made a stunning admission. It has issued an unprecedented apology over its flawed prediction that Himalayan glaciers were likely to disappear by 2035. It has now emerged that the prediction in its landmark 2007 report was “poorly substantiated” and resulted from a lapse in standards. “In drafting the paragraph in question the clear and well-established standards of evidence, required by the IPCC procedures, were not applied properly,” the panel said. “The chair, vice-chair and co-chairs of the IPCC regret the poor application of IPCC procedures in this instance.”
So, in the global warming debate- is the debate not over after all?
So, in the global warming debate- is the debate not over after all?
Saturday, January 23, 2010
When Top Egos Clash..
First it was the reduction of the bloated bureaucracy that created the bad blood between the Civil Service Commission (CSC) and the Ministry of Finance. The CSC then felt short changed when they realised that only the civil servants had agreed to reduce their salaries while the other independent commissions and the members of the parliament had refused to do so. Now the gigantic egos of the two powerful bodies,- the CSC and the Ministry of Finance has met with a headlong collision over the restoration of the civil servants pay cut. Given this worsening situation in relations, the spirit of negotiation and compromise has come to a dead end.
Without consulting the Ministry of Finance, the CSC has announced that the Finance Ministry’s agreement to reduce civil servants’ salary for three months is now over, and that all civil servants must receive their full salary starting from January. The CSC has directed the permanent secretaries to send the salary sheets to the Finance Ministry with the restored wage levels, warning that employees who do not comply with this directive will be held liable for their failure. The Finance Ministry hit back by threatening legal action against government payroll officers who failed to fill out a reduced salary sheet, charging that the "special circumstances" which made it necessary to reduce the civil servants salaries are still not over. Both agencies have failed to carry out the review of the three month-period of this special circumstance. It appears the CSC has jumped the gun and restored the salary. Not only have both government agencies forgotten to keep their egos in check, they also have threatened to take action against the payroll officers. The payroll officers are in a no win situation, whether they prepare the wage sheets with increased salaries as demanded by the CSC or if they prepare the wage sheets with the reduced salaries as demanded by the Finance Ministry.
No one expects the rival political parties who cordially despise each other's policies, character and integrity to soft-pedal on this type of controversy. The political knives are out to increase the heat, embarrass and cause the maximum damage to the government. With the vested interests of the opposition parties vying for political power, what we see is bitter partisanship and political wrangling. Instead of building our democracy based on the values of freedom, equality and justice, our society has become more polarised than ever before . The hopes of seeing the dawn of a new liberal age are fast fading away. Antagonistic politics can quickly lead to volatile social problems. Unless cooler and responsible heads can prevail, there is a danger that the building blocks of our nascent democracy could spin out of control.
Without consulting the Ministry of Finance, the CSC has announced that the Finance Ministry’s agreement to reduce civil servants’ salary for three months is now over, and that all civil servants must receive their full salary starting from January. The CSC has directed the permanent secretaries to send the salary sheets to the Finance Ministry with the restored wage levels, warning that employees who do not comply with this directive will be held liable for their failure. The Finance Ministry hit back by threatening legal action against government payroll officers who failed to fill out a reduced salary sheet, charging that the "special circumstances" which made it necessary to reduce the civil servants salaries are still not over. Both agencies have failed to carry out the review of the three month-period of this special circumstance. It appears the CSC has jumped the gun and restored the salary. Not only have both government agencies forgotten to keep their egos in check, they also have threatened to take action against the payroll officers. The payroll officers are in a no win situation, whether they prepare the wage sheets with increased salaries as demanded by the CSC or if they prepare the wage sheets with the reduced salaries as demanded by the Finance Ministry.
No one expects the rival political parties who cordially despise each other's policies, character and integrity to soft-pedal on this type of controversy. The political knives are out to increase the heat, embarrass and cause the maximum damage to the government. With the vested interests of the opposition parties vying for political power, what we see is bitter partisanship and political wrangling. Instead of building our democracy based on the values of freedom, equality and justice, our society has become more polarised than ever before . The hopes of seeing the dawn of a new liberal age are fast fading away. Antagonistic politics can quickly lead to volatile social problems. Unless cooler and responsible heads can prevail, there is a danger that the building blocks of our nascent democracy could spin out of control.
Monday, January 18, 2010
At Stake is Not Only Justice
The real political drama that brought the change of government in Maldives after President Nasheed won the first multi-party presidential contest over a year back, has begun to unfold last week with the launch of the 'Torture Victims Association', a Non Governmental Organisation(NGO).
The new President, himself a torture victim has not been able to get the independent Human Rights Commission of Maldives(HRCM) to look into the grievances of the alleged custodial torture victims and human rights violations that took place before 2002. The newly formed NGO seeks to build up pressure, calling for justice and accountability. The HRCM is concerned on the divisive impact of such an investigation on the national unity of our society, especially if it is done on political party lines.
The idea of a South African-style Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC), with powers to conduct investigations has been suggested. A TRC would need the cooperation and participation of all political parties, if we are to move beyond the acrimonious manner in which we have dealt with our past presidents- Our first president Mohamed Amin Didi is credited for introducing modern education and our second president Ibrahim Nasir took the country forward in tourism and development. Mohamed Amin was lynched by the mob in Male' and battered to death in 1954. After Ibrahim Nasir handed over power in a peaceful transition to the third president in 1978, he was hounded off the streets of Male' and forced into exile. In both incidents, some of the older generation politicians fed into the anger and frustrations of disgruntled citizens who resorted to street violence and mob justice. Now it is the opportunity for a new generation of leaders to rise up to the occasion and view things in a more civilized manner. How should justice be meted out to the outgoing regime for the serious allegations levelled at them? There has to be an independent process including the judicial system for those who are seeking redress for torture and violations of their human rights.
Why has our society become so intolerant when seeking justice? What is at stake is not only justice, but also our ability as a nation to up hold the rule of law- given our chequered reputation for politically motivated violence.
Here is what is stated on the Thomas Paine Blog -On Politics vs. Leadership worth some reflection.
"A little matter will move a party, but it must be something great that moves a nation."
-Thomas Paine, Rights of Man
Political polarization is not the path to true leadership. When politics refuses to go beyond party at all costs, it remains small, unable to lead. Greatness and leadership is usually found outside the boundaries and comfort of party.
The new President, himself a torture victim has not been able to get the independent Human Rights Commission of Maldives(HRCM) to look into the grievances of the alleged custodial torture victims and human rights violations that took place before 2002. The newly formed NGO seeks to build up pressure, calling for justice and accountability. The HRCM is concerned on the divisive impact of such an investigation on the national unity of our society, especially if it is done on political party lines.
The idea of a South African-style Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC), with powers to conduct investigations has been suggested. A TRC would need the cooperation and participation of all political parties, if we are to move beyond the acrimonious manner in which we have dealt with our past presidents- Our first president Mohamed Amin Didi is credited for introducing modern education and our second president Ibrahim Nasir took the country forward in tourism and development. Mohamed Amin was lynched by the mob in Male' and battered to death in 1954. After Ibrahim Nasir handed over power in a peaceful transition to the third president in 1978, he was hounded off the streets of Male' and forced into exile. In both incidents, some of the older generation politicians fed into the anger and frustrations of disgruntled citizens who resorted to street violence and mob justice. Now it is the opportunity for a new generation of leaders to rise up to the occasion and view things in a more civilized manner. How should justice be meted out to the outgoing regime for the serious allegations levelled at them? There has to be an independent process including the judicial system for those who are seeking redress for torture and violations of their human rights.
Why has our society become so intolerant when seeking justice? What is at stake is not only justice, but also our ability as a nation to up hold the rule of law- given our chequered reputation for politically motivated violence.
Here is what is stated on the Thomas Paine Blog -On Politics vs. Leadership worth some reflection.
"A little matter will move a party, but it must be something great that moves a nation."
-Thomas Paine, Rights of Man
Political polarization is not the path to true leadership. When politics refuses to go beyond party at all costs, it remains small, unable to lead. Greatness and leadership is usually found outside the boundaries and comfort of party.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
One bucket of water for Tendulkar's bath!
Here's how Sachin Tendulkar, India's cricket star is promoting to conserve water. The master blaster is involved in a civic campaign that emphasises on the need to conserve water in Mumbai. The six lakes from which Mumbai gets its supply of water is unable to sustain the city's need of more than 20 million people- a perennial water shortage problem amplified last year by the less-than-average monsoon rains.
The main civic body responsible for the city's water supply, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has to cut its water supplies and Mumbai residents are struggling to cope with water shortages. As water woes continue, the Municipal Authority wants to spread the message to Mumbai residents- use every drop of water without any wastage. Here is Tendulkar's message.
"By his own admission, using just a bucketful of water - to waste a minimum quantity of the precious liquid.
He made the admission while shooting for a half-minute social awareness message for Mumbaikars to save precious water. Mumbai suffered a monsoon deficit last year, and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has shot the clip to spread awareness among the Mumbai residents.
Sachin advised the people they must take only that quantity of water in a glass they require to drink and not waste it.
Elaborating, Sachin also said that his family has given up the luxury of shower for taking bath. Instead, each family member used just a bucketful of water for the daily bath, an official of the BMC said.
In the ad, Sachin will stress the need to conserve water to save the city, which is already plagued by nearly 30 percent water cuts - and faces the threat of more cuts in future.
Speaking in Hindi and Marathi, Sachin will convey an identical message "Paani ki raksha, Mumbai ki suraksha" in the ad shot by Eureka Films for BMC.
The commercial, directed by Meghnath Kulkarni, is expected to hit cinemas and television screens in the next 10 days. Sachin is the BMC's brand ambassador for water conservation." Link
The main civic body responsible for the city's water supply, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has to cut its water supplies and Mumbai residents are struggling to cope with water shortages. As water woes continue, the Municipal Authority wants to spread the message to Mumbai residents- use every drop of water without any wastage. Here is Tendulkar's message.
"By his own admission, using just a bucketful of water - to waste a minimum quantity of the precious liquid.
He made the admission while shooting for a half-minute social awareness message for Mumbaikars to save precious water. Mumbai suffered a monsoon deficit last year, and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has shot the clip to spread awareness among the Mumbai residents.
Sachin advised the people they must take only that quantity of water in a glass they require to drink and not waste it.
Elaborating, Sachin also said that his family has given up the luxury of shower for taking bath. Instead, each family member used just a bucketful of water for the daily bath, an official of the BMC said.
In the ad, Sachin will stress the need to conserve water to save the city, which is already plagued by nearly 30 percent water cuts - and faces the threat of more cuts in future.
Speaking in Hindi and Marathi, Sachin will convey an identical message "Paani ki raksha, Mumbai ki suraksha" in the ad shot by Eureka Films for BMC.
The commercial, directed by Meghnath Kulkarni, is expected to hit cinemas and television screens in the next 10 days. Sachin is the BMC's brand ambassador for water conservation." Link
Thursday, January 07, 2010
Takaful or Islamic Insurance pays off
As reported in Business Times Malaysia Wednesday, HSBC Amanah Takaful (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, the Islamic insurance arm of HSBC Bank Malaysia Bhd, saw its regular premium collections double in the last six months, after shifting to traditional insurance products from single premium investment-linked plans. Chief executive officer Zainuddin Ishak said the move had allowed the takaful operator to collect RM30 million in regular premiums in a six-month period compared with RM15 million in the preceding six months.
This news comes on the heels of the recent announcement about the imminent relocation of Mukhtar Hussain, the global head of HSBC Amanah, the Islamic banking division of the HSBC Group, to Kuala Lumpur, the Malaysian capital, raising the question whether the Malaysian capital is set to become the headquarters for HSBC’s Islamic finance business? Hussain has hitherto been located in Dubai, the traditional global headquarters of HSBC Amanah.
Hussain will be the CEO of HSBC Malaysia Berhad in addition to being the global head of HSBC Amanah Bank and the chairman of HSBC Amanah Malaysia.
This is a recognition by the HSBC Group that the Malaysia International Islamic Financial Centre (MIFC) is one of the major hubs for Islamic finance and that Malaysia is an important promoter of islamic finance.
The principles of takaful, or Islamic insurance are:
1)Policyholders cooperate among themselves for their common good.
2)Every policyholder pays his subscription to help those that need assistance.
3)Losses are divided and liabilities spread according to the community pooling system.
4)Uncertainty is eliminated in respect of subscription and compensation.
5)It does not derive advantage at the cost of others.
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