Issue 9: Jan - Mar 2011 - Association of Muslim Professionals
Transcription
Issue 9: Jan - Mar 2011 - Association of Muslim Professionals
We Ar We Are re2 e 20 20! 0! rS Ready fo Malay/ ntion of al Conve nals – 1990 on ti a N io 1st Profess Muslim sary Cha t Anniver AMP’s 1s inner – 1992 D chool Dis bursemen ry Charity Anniversa AMP’s 15th nner – 2006 Di t – 2007 rity duation chool Gra 95 AMP Pres – 19 rich Youth En AMP Flag Day – 19 95 ment Prog ramme – Ceremon y 1993 alay/ tion of M l Conven als – 2000 a on ti a 2nd N im Profession Musl AMP Aw AFYS K hop Raya S ids Hari 10 – 20 © Association of Muslim Professionals. Permission is required for reproduction. ping nd for School Fu AMP Ready remony – 2003 Ce t en m se Disbur ards – 2 002 . Limited . n oldings Press H with permissio re o p a g ted : © Sin Reprin Source 1 Through Through THE YEARS THE The Association of Muslim Professionals (AMP) had its beginnings in 1991, as a result of the first National Convention of Singapore Malay/Muslim Professionals held a year earlier. The Convention served as a platform for the voices of 500 Malay/Muslim professionals representing the community’s interests, to be heard. After the two-day Convention, they achieved what they had set out for – a new strategic direction for the Malay/Muslim community to catalyse its progress in 21st century Singapore, in the form of AMP. OUR HUMBLE BEGINNINGS To say that the first few years were tough for AMP would be an understatement. A huge task had been placed upon its shoulders – to chart the path for the Malay/Muslim community, with minimal manpower and financial resources. It operated out of a small office in Joo Chiat, with only two full-time staff managed by a team of volunteers who would head to the AMP office after their fulltime jobs everyday to serve the community. These pioneer members of AMP gave their utmost dedication, time and at times, even money from their own pockets, to ensure AMP was able to achieve its goals. From the office in Joo Chiat, it moved to its bigger premises in Jalan Tembusu in 1994, where AMP operated from for eight years. From there, the community started reaping the rewards of the efforts by AMP – more programmes and services were offered to serve the community’s needs such as training services for workers, the first Malay/Muslim preschool centre in Singapore and enrichment programmes for at-risk youths. EXPANSION OF OUR EFFORTS In 1998, AMP’s first subsidiary was established – its research arm, the Centre for Research on Islamic and Malay Affairs (RIMA). RIMA was formed to strengthen AMP’s role as a think tank for the community, where it identifies future opportunities and challenges that the community needs to prepare for. Apart from ad-hoc research projects, RIMA now regularly engages the community on hot-topic issues that are of interest to the community through its seminars, focus group discussions and workshops. Source: © Singapore Press Holdings Limited. Reprinted with permission. A year later, in 1999, AMP’s second subsidiary, MERCU™ Learning Point was formed. MERCU™ started out by providing workers’ training and education to students. It has since streamlined its business focus towards child and youth education, and childcare and student care operations. In 2002, AMP moved to its present location within the Pasir Ris East Community Building, where it regularly conducts its programmes and activities for its clients. AMP and its subsidiaries now employ 150 teachers, tutors, social workers, researchers, counsellors, youth officers and other administrative officers who serve more than 10,000 clients a year through its programmes and services. In January 2010, AMP opened its first branch office in Jurong Point Shopping Centre, which operates as a dedicated centre for youths to drop-in and engage in structured activities. THE FUTURE Having dedicated 20 years of effort towards serving and uplifting the community, AMP looks forward to more fulfilling years in propelling the Malay/Muslim community towards success and one that takes its pride of place in the larger Singaporean society. The success that we have been able to achieve thus far would not have been possible without the constant and unrelenting support from our supporters, partners and donors. However, our greatest appreciation and gratitude goes towards our founding members and volunteers, without whom the current landscape of the Malay/Muslim community would be decidedly different. 2 © Association of Muslim Professionals. Permission is required for reproduction. ISSUE 9 • JAN – MAR 2011 MICA (P) No: 068/10/2010 • ISSN 1793-8694 A QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER BY THE ASSOCIATION OF MUSLIM PROFESSIONALS A Look at the Culminating Events of 2010 and what lies ahead READY FOR SCHOOL, READY FOR THE FUTURE Underprivileged students prepare for the new school year with new school packs INSTILLING POSITIVE YOUTH VALUES BELIEF IN THE SUPERNATURAL Are the problems we face the result of supernatural forces? IN THE FACE OF ADVERSITY A young man’s challenging journey towards his dreams Youths have fun while learning key values © Association of Muslim Professionals. Permission is required for reproduction. 3 CELEBRATING A MILESTONE Dear Readers A belated Salam Maal Hijrah and many blessings to you and your loved ones for the new year. The coming year marks a significant milestone for AMP as we celebrate our 20th year in serving and uplifting the Malay/Muslim community in Singapore. Reminisce the old days with us in the special section we have included in this issue, where we give you a look into AMP’s history, in commemoration of our 20th anniversary. We invite you to rejoice with us as we reflect on AMP’s accomplishments in our effort to catalyse the progress of our community, and appreciate your feedback on how AMP can further improve its efforts. Each new year comes with the intention of a fresh start, and that is no different for our community in need. AMP is pleased to bring joy to more than 2,300 disadvantaged students as they started their school preparation early this year through our Ready for School (RFS) Fund Disbursement Ceremony. You can read more about this event, which saw the highest number of recipients to date, on Page 1. AMP’s subsidiary, Centre for Research on Islamic and Malay Affairs (RIMA), has been actively providing a platform for discourse on significant issues affecting the community throughout 2010. Most notable was the educational workshop RIMA organised in December, which featured renowned speaker Eric Jensen, from the United States. Eric is well-known for his brain-based approach in motivating underperforming students. The workshop was well-received by the 250 educational stakeholders who shared a common interest in addressing the problem of underperformance in education. You can read more about the workshop on Page 5. AMP is also proud to have supported a good number of beneficiaries who have triumphed over their hardship and used it as a driving force for their success. Individuals like our Micro Business graduate, Ms Tuty Alawiyah Isnin (featured on Page 4), and RFS youth recipient, Muhammad Shawal Ziyad (featured on Page 9), are exemplary of such beneficiaries who have paved their way to a brighter future. We hope they will inspire others like them to work hard and conquer the challenges that they face. The new year also brings with it new beginnings and this issue introduces a new section – Thought. This section highlights contemporary issues facing the Malay/Muslim community and features commentaries and opinion pieces from community stakeholders. We look forward to your continued support in the years to come. Let us work together towards developing a dynamic Malay/Muslim community taking its pride of place in the larger Singaporean society. Mohd Anuar Yusop Executive Director, AMP WHAT’S in STORE EDITORIAL LINE-UP Ready for School, Ready for the Future 1 Instilling Positive Youth Values 2 Youths Advocating Change 3 Building a Community of Entrepreneurs 4 Confronting the Fixation on the Supernatural 4 Nurturing Underprivileged Children 5 Addressing the Issue of Underperforming Students 5 19th Annual General Meeting 5 A Helping Hand 6 On the Radio 6 Belief in the Supernatural 8 In the Face of Adversity 9 Marketplace 10 Highlights 10 For advertising enquiries, please email [email protected]. We welcome feedback, comments and suggestions on the articles that appear in AMPlified. Please address your correspondence to [email protected]. 4 ISSUE 9 • JAN – MAR 2011 Supervising Editor Mohd Anuar Yusop Editor Winda Guntor Subeditor Ruzaidah Md Rasid Contributors Abdul Shariff Aboo Kassim Aspalela Mohamad Salleh Fauziah Rahman Luqman Hakim Ilham Mohd Alfian Mohd Ismail Muhd Sirajuddin Jamat Nur Liyana Yunos Rosedah Anuar Sunaryo Darno Suzieyati Malimar Zaleha Ahmad Photography Habibah Mohammad Saleh Mohd Hafiz Syahiddin Johar Muhd Sirajuddin Jamat Nur Liyana Yunos © Association of Muslim Professionals. Permission is required for reproduction. o EVENTS READY FOR SCHOOL, READY FOR THE FUTURE by Aspalela Mohamad Salleh Guest-of-H onour, Mr Chairman S of AMP, M Iswaran (centre in bl r a sharing session w Nizam Ismail (right, ue) and ith one of the benefi in white) having ciaries. One of the RFS Pack recipients beaming in delight. The recipients had new school shoes. their feet measured ir before collecting the Singapore Expo was uncharacteristically abuzz with the excited chatter of eager parents and children early on the morning of 4 December 2010. They were there for AMP’s annual Ready for School (RFS) Fund Disbursement Ceremony, where more than 2,300 students from low-income families were about to receive new school essentials from AMP. The official disbursement ceremony, which started at 10.00 am, was graced by Mr S Iswaran, Senior Minister of State for Trade and Industry, and Education, as the Guest of Honour. He was joined by Mr Mohd Nizam Ismail, Chairman of AMP, and Mr Raziff Hamid, Chairman of the RFS Management Committee, in disbursing a total of 100 RFS Packs and 50 AMP Education Bursary awards to the students at the ceremony. The remaining recipients attended the mass disbursement ceremony held later in the afternoon. The RFS Packs worth between $95 and $110 were disbursed to students from the preschool to post-secondary levels. The Pack contains a school bag, school shoes, socks, water bottle, stationery and book vouchers. Students were also allowed to get a reimbursement for their school uniform purchases from AMP. The AMP Education Bursary worth $500 and $1,000 was awarded to polytechnic and university students respectively. , an increase n-Malays ipients were no 16% of the rec last year. from AMP would like to extend its sincere appreciation to all individual and corporate donors who made this event possible through their generous contribution. Their support will go a long way towards easing the financial burden of these students and their families, in the bid to develop their confidence to pursue their academic aspirations for a brighter future. © Association of Muslim Professionals. Permission is required for reproduction. 1 o EVENTS The three-day Positive Youth Development Camp organised under AMP’s Youth Enrichment Programme (YEP) from 20 to 22 November 2010, was definitely unlike those held previously. For the first time, the camp was held in a hotel – the Mercure Golf and Palm Resort Hotel – in Johore. The activities arranged for the camp were, by design, less strenuous, and participants indulged in the delicious buffet spread provided by the hotel daily. This time, the camp was organised specifically to reward deserving YEP students who were graduating from secondary school, for the hard work and commitment they had put in towards their exam preparations throughout the year. A total of 117 youths took part in the fun-filled activities arranged, such as the Fun Trail Blazer Race, which had them go through traditional games at various pit stops. The games included how to use traditional hunting tools such as the sumpit and catapult. They also put their teamwork skills to the test during a raft-building telematch. The youths especially enjoyed the free time given to them, where they explored the resort’s sports and recreational facilities with their mentors, playing squash, billiard and bowling. The unique approach to the camp proved to be a success as the youths were more participative in the group activities held, which instilled positive youth development values such as the importance of making wise decisions. The camp was also one of the rare occasions that the YEP students from all participating schools were able to meet and socialise with one another. The camarederie formed between the students during the camp led to many of them organising several post-camp outings among themselves. AMP hopes that the bond established among the youths will be a good source of support for them to achieve success in the future. A participant trying out the traditional sumpit. 2 ISSUE 9 • JAN – MAR 2011 The participants built on their team efforts in constructing a raft and tested it in the water. INSTILLING POSITIVE YOUTH VALUES by Mohd Alfian Bin Mohamad Ismail The participants took part in Mine Sweeper, an activity that inculcated the importance of wise decision-making. © Association of Muslim Professionals. Permission is required for reproduction. o EVENTS Group photo after the presentation at the Arts House. Some 60 selected youths from various tertiary institutions gathered at the Singapore Sports School on 17 December 2010 for a three-day residential workshop, PRAXIS, coorganised by Young AMP and MENDAKI Club. PRAXIS hopes to encourage the involvement of youths in addressing societal needs and issues through critical thinking and reflection. The participants underwent intensive workshop sessions on the first two days of the camp, led by the founder of School of Thought, Mr Tong Yee, and his team. They were also given the opportunity to interact and gain valuable insights from the experiences shared by a group of professionals and activists in the areas of education, entrepreneurship, environment, media and technology, and society and culture. Day Two witnessed the participants embarking on field trips to three different locations: the National University of Singapore (NUS) Enterprise Incubator, PERTAPIS Halfway House, and Mandai Mudflats. They were able to further develop their critical-thinking skills and became more aware of the numerous social efforts happening ‘on the ground’. At the end of the second day, the participants formed a group of 6 to 8 members and brainstormed possible project ideas to be presented to a panel the following day. Having to present their proposals to a panel of distinguished individuals including Member of Parliament for Hong Kah GRC, Mr Zaqy Mohamad, proved to be no easy feat! The participants were given constructive feedback on the feasibility of their projects to better improve the ideas presented. While the residential workshop concludes the first phase of PRAXIS, it also marks the beginning of the mentoring process for the implementation of the project ideas. Mr Zaqy also applauded the efforts made by both organisers and look forward to more of such youth programmes that allow them to eventually lead meaningful projects for the community and nation. © Association of Muslim Professionals. Permission is required for reproduction. YOUT H S ADVOCATING CHANGE by Muhd Sirajuddin Jamat Young AMP board member and fellow active environmentalist, Ms Sofiah Jamil (extreme left) shared her experiences with the participants. Participants getting their hands and feet dirty in the mission to save trapped horseshoe crabs. CALLING FOR PRAXIS MENTORS If you are a young professional with at least 2 years of experience in the areas of focus, and wish to be a part of PRAXIS as a mentor, please email your details to Mr Sirajuddin at [email protected] or visit Praxis on Facebook. 3 o EVENTS This year, for the first time ever, 58 Micro Business Programme participants had the opportunity to be individually mentored by business consultants from the Enterprise Development Centre at the Singapore Malay Chamber of Commerce & Industry (EDC@SMCCI). The technical business advice rendered by EDC@SMCCI aimed to elevate the participants’ micro businesses to the next level by emphasising the importance of a good basic business infrastructure. Ms Tuty Alawiyah, the valedictorian of this year’s batch gave a speech about her journey through the programme at the graduation ceremony. The seven-month programme culminated in a graduation ceremony on 4 December 2010 upon the completion of the participants’ training in the various areas of their choice and business and IT workshops. The participants and their respective businesses were also assessed by EDC@SMCCI in terms of their business model readiness, experience and exposure to the chosen field, liquidity and stability. Among them were four individuals who emerged with micro businesses that were deemed to have sustainable models and the highest potential to expand. They were awarded with the capital grant of $1,000 each. The valedictorian for this year’s graduating batch, Ms Tuty Alawiyah Isnin, was invited onstage during the graduation ceremony to share her learning experience in setting up her business. The 29year-old spoke about how she picked herself up after failing in her business venture previously and decided to look for ways to improve her business knowledge through the AMP Micro Business Programme. Ms Tuty also highlighted how proper guidance and networking with like-minded entrepreneurs can make a significant impact on your business. AMP hopes that what started as a way for these graduates to supplement their household income, will eventually create a community of successful entrepreneurs in the near future. BUILDING A COMMUNITY OF ENTREPRENEURS by Fauziah Rahman The graduates of AMP Micro Business Programme 2010. CONFRONTING THE FIXATION ON THE SUPERNATURAL by Rosedah Anuar INSPIRASI@AMP concluded its series of Counsellors’ High Tea last year by organising the Belief in Supernatural and Bomoh among Malay/Muslim Clients sharing session. The controversial topic for the session held on 12 November 2010 attracted a number of professionals from the social service and medical fields to attend, including doctors, psychiatrists and psychologists. A number of counsellors face the dilemma of assisting clients, particularly those from the Malay/ Muslim community, who believe that problems with their marriage, relationship and finances are a result of ‘black magic’. As a result, these clients may turn to traditional healers or bomohs for assistance, which causes apprehension among the counsellors. The participants comprised many professionals from the social service and medical fields. 4 ISSUE 9 • JAN – MAR 2011 On account of her extensive experience as a counsellor, resource person and trainer, Ms Siti Hamidah Bahashwan was invited to lead the session. She discussed the sensitivities of dealing with such clients and shared anecdotes, which offered understanding of the community’s view towards bomohs. She also provided the participants with guidelines for differentiating between credible traditional healers and bogus ones. © Association of Muslim Professionals. Permission is required for reproduction. o EVENTS Executive Director of AMP, Mr Mohd Anuar Yusop (back row, extreme left) and Guest of Honour, Mr Matthias Yao Chih (back row, in centre), Mayor of South East District taking a group photo with the graduating students under the care of AMP. NURTURING UNDERPRIVILEGED CHILDREN by Aspalela Mohamad Salleh On 18 December 2010, the Maxwell Auditorium of the Singapore Science Centre was packed with 47 families whose children were graduating from the Learning Family Programme 2010, a joint community project fronted by the South East Community Development Council. For the first time ever, AMP came on board as one of the community partners in this year’s programme to nurture Kindergarten 2 students from low-income families with sound educational foundation. The 22-week programme that started in July 2010 aimed to help these students develop their self-confidence and improve their literacy and numeracy skills. Their parents were also roped in to participate in some of the activities so that the learning process can continue at home with their support and encouragement. AMP would like to wish the graduating families all the best in their children’s educational pursuit and will continue our efforts in collaborating with other agencies to uplift the community. Addressing the Issue of Underperforming Students by Abdul Shariff Aboo Kassim Employing a neuroscience approach to understand the issues faced by underperforming students, the Centre for Research on Islamic and Malay Affairs (RIMA) and Yayasan MENDAKI jointly organised a twoday workshop attended by 250 stakeholders in education. Held at the Grand Mercure Roxy Hotel on 2 and 3 December 2010, the educational workshop aimed to provide insights into how educators could engage underperforming students within a class of differing levels of ability. The participants snapping a picture with Mr Eric Jensen (centre) after the workshop. The ballroom was filled with teachers from primary and secondary schools, madrasahs as well as private educational institutions. Taking centre stage as the lead trainer for the session was renowned American education psychologist, Mr Eric Jensen, who has conducted twenty years of research on educational neuroscience, with practical classroom applications. Mr Jensen, who is the President and Chief Executive Officer of Jensen Learning Corporation, is also a member of the prestigious Society for Neuroscience and the New York Academy of Science. Mr Jensen shared with the participants useful insights and practical techniques that they can employ when dealing with underperforming students. The objectives of the session were threefold: a. To understand the differences in students, including socioeconomic background and disabilities, which affect learning capacity, as a way to explore more effective teaching practices b. To identify areas where students have deficits and how to invest in these areas c. To explore strategies on what drives students’ motivation so as to effectively engage and teach a diverse student population made up of different learning abilities The participants who attended the workshop found it useful and relevant to their course of work, and felt that they could put the ideas into practice. RIMA wishes to thank the Jensen Learning Corporation, Embassy of the United States, Grand Mercure Roxy Hotel and Marina Bay Sands for sponsoring the event. © Association of Muslim Professionals. Permission is required for reproduction. An AMP officer showcasing some of the coursework done by the students in the programme to the Mayor. 19th Annual General Meeting by Sunaryo Dano AMP’s 19th Annual General Meeting (AGM) was convened on Saturday, 20 November. As it was a non-election year, there was no balloting for a change of Directors at the AGM. The meeting adopted the Audited Financial Statements for the year ending on 30 June 2010, in which Messrs Rohan Mah & Partners were re-appointed as Auditors of the Company. The current Board of Directors in office are as follows: Chairman Mr Mohammad Nizam Ismail Members Mr Abdul Hamid Abdullah Mr Azmoon Ahmad Mr Mohamad Azmi Muslimin Mr Mohamed Farid Mohamed Hamzah Mr Mohammed Raziff Abdul Hamid Mr Mohd Azhar Khalid Mr Mohd Zaidi Mohd Yacob Two directors, Mr Hasnain Mustafa Siddiqui and Ms Nor Hidayah Mohd Amin resigned from the Board on 5 June 2010 and 30 September 2010 respectively. 5 o EVENTS The top collector of the drive, Omar Esa Alkhatib (right) from Changkat Primary School. The second highest collector was Eugene Lee (right) from Changkat Changi Secondary School. The third highest collector was Abdul Hakim Maz’ali (right) from Changkat Changi Secondary School. A HELPING HAND by Luqman Hakim Ilham AMP would like to express its appreciation to the schools which participated in the Adopt a Family & Youth Scheme (AFYS) Donation Card Drive 2010. Their commitment and unwavering support have helped raise more than $20,000 towards our cause. A big thank you also goes to the top three collectors of the drive for going all out to garner contribution from their families and peers. • Omar Esa Alkhatib – Changkat Primary School • Eugene Lee – Changkat Changi Secondary School • Abdul Hakim Maz’ali – Changkat Changi Secondary School The • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 16 participating schools were: Ahmad Ibrahim Secondary School Bowen Secondary School Changkat Changi Secondary School Changkat Primary School Deyi Secondary School First Toa Payoh Primary School Greenridge Primary School Hong Kah Secondary School Jurong West Secondary School Juying Secondary School Northbrooks Secondary School Pasir Ris Primary School Pei Hwa Secondary School Regent Secondary School Unity Primary School Yusof Ishak Secondary School ON THE RADIO by Luqman Hakim Ilham For the first time ever, AMP collaborated with WARNA 94.2FM to build awareness and garner support for AMP’s Ready for School (RFS) Fund last year. The three-week radio campaign saw the radio deejays from WARNA rallying listeners to contribute to the Fund to assist students from low-income families. The campaign featured interviews with these students and uncovered the youths’ everyday challenges, as well as how the Fund has helped alleviate their financial burden. The campaign raked in $55,000 from the generous listeners of WARNA 94.2FM. You can do your part in building a brighter future for these students by calling the telepoll lines below. The telepoll lines will be open for donations until February 2011. WARNA 94.2FM 1900 112 4001 ($10 donation) 1900 112 4005 ($50 donation) 6 ISSUE 9 • JAN – MAR 2011 © Association of Muslim Professionals. Permission is required for reproduction. o ADVERTORIAL PROTECT YOUR INTERESTS WITH A LASTING POWER OF ATTORNEY Our ability to make decisions can be hindered by a debilitating accident or illness. Under the Mental Capacity Act, people are empowered to plan in advance for such an eventuality. What happens if you lose the mental capacity to make your own decisions? Who should take charge of your personal welfare, and what happens to your financial affairs in the event of that? To protect the interests of those who have lost their mental capacity and have become vulnerable, the Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports introduced the Mental Capacity Act which came into effect on 1 March 2010. There are many causes of mental incapability - dementia, effects of a stroke and accidents are just the few that can happen to anyone. The Act enables people to plan ahead and gives them the power to make choices for their future before they lose their mental capacity. Under the Act, individuals with mental capacity, aged 21 years or older (the ‘donor’), can make a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) to appoint one or more persons (‘donee[s]’) whom they trust to make decisions for them in the event they should lose mental capacity one day. Powers can be granted to specific donees in the areas of personal welfare as well as property and affairs matters. By indicating one’s considered choices and preferences in an LPA, family members and loved ones would have clarity of an individual’s preferences and greater peace of mind. The Office of the Public Guardian (OPG), a Division within MCYS, is responsible for administering the Mental Capacity Act. For more information, please visit their website at www.publicguardian.gov.sg or call the OPG Hotline at 1800 226 6222. You may also email your queries to [email protected]. OPG also conducts free workshops regularly at the end of each month for members of the public who are keen to find out more about the Act and how they can make an LPA. Do visit the OPG website for registration details on these workshops. LASTING POWER OF ATTORNEY A legal document which allows an individual of at least 21 years of age (the ‘donor’) and who has mental capacity, to voluntarily appoint one or more persons he trusts (‘donee[s]’), to act and make decisions on his behalf if he should lose mental capacity one day. FREE LPA WORKSHOPS Regularly held on the last Saturday of each month for members of the public who are keen to find out more about the Act and how they can make an LPA. TO REGISTER Call 1800 226 6222 or email [email protected] Do visit www.publicguardian.gov.sg for more details. The Straits Times © Singapore Press Holdings Limited. Reprinted with permission. © Association of Muslim Professionals. Permission is required for reproduction. 7 o THOUGHT In my 20 years as a marriage counsellor, I have come across many clients who blame external factors for the breakdown in their marriage and relationships, and other problems that they face. However, more often than they should, these clients blame the supernatural for causing these issues. For example, some attribute their husband’s or wife’s infidelity on a ‘black magic spell’ cast on their partners, causing them to have extra marital affairs. In other cases, they claim that bomohs or ‘traditional healers’ hired by those ‘jealous’ or ‘envious’ of them, have used ‘black magic’ to cause their financial issues and other difficulties that they face. However, after several sessions of exploring their problems together, we often discover that the couples themselves are partly responsible for what they faced. Some of the attributing factors include poor communication between the partners and irresponsible behaviour on the part of either or both parties. I recall a case which I handled once, involving a couple who had been married for more than twenty years. The wife believed that her husband had been ‘charmed’ through her Facebook account. According to her, an ex-boyfriend had used her husband’s photographs from her Facebook account to cast a spell on him. This, she believed, caused her husband to behave irresponsibly towards her so that she would leave her husband and return to the ex-boyfriend. Her husband dismissed all this and suspected that his wife had been having an affair with her ex-boyfriend for the last seven years and that her claims were just an excuse for her to seek a divorce from him. In other cases, where the clients are probably less technologically-savvy, they claim that other elements such as food, soil and insects were ‘sent’ by others to cause the problems that they face. However, after discussing and exploring these problems with the clients, it seemed that many of them were using these supernatural factors as a way of absolving themselves from blame. Being intangible, these factors are an easy way for the clients to shift the blame from themselves or their partner to an ‘unknown’ party. However, what it truly is, is a systemic failure of their interaction with each other within their family system. Such a failure leads to the breakdown in communication, which if not attended to at an early stage, could lead to further deterioration of their relationship. In light of the modern world we live in and given the ubiquity of religious resources in the community, one would expect the belief in the supernatural to be waning. On the contrary, many still turn to bomohs for assistance when faced with difficulties or problems. The fear of the unknown could also have been passed down from the previous generation to the BELIEF IN THE SUPERNATURAL by Zaleha Ahmad next or between peers and family members. Their belief in the supernatural is further reaffirmed and reinforced with the increased number of films, dramas and ‘documentaries’ on paranormal activities. An example is a very popular radio show here which invites listeners to call in and give accounts of their experience with supernatural beings. Such shows breed irrational fears among the community, even though their aim is ultimately to entertain. Many who tune in or watch such shows might, over time, be conditioned into thinking that supernatural beings possess the ability to influence others to do ill towards others. In the past, stories about ghosts were told to scare the young children from going out at night, but it has since taken a different spin. Because it is something that is unknown, many take anecdotes shared by others as the gospel truth. While there are many things in the world that is not known to us and peculiarities do exist, there is a need to put our fears aside and look at the actual root of the problem. It is, of course, easier to blame others, or even better, a pontianak or an orang bunian for causing problems that we face, but it takes a courageous person to look into himself or herself and to assess the role he may have played in contributing to that problem in the first place. Zaleha Ahmad is the Centre Director of INSPIRASI@AMP, which is a hub for marriage preparation and enrichment in AMP. She has 20 years of experience as a marriage counsellor. The opinions expressed in this article are her own. 8 ISSUE 9 • JAN – MAR 2011 © Association of Muslim Professionals. Permission is required for reproduction. o SPOTLIGHT IN THE FACE OF by Suzieyati Malimar Muhammad Shawal Ziyad still remembers the day six years ago when his family received a phone call about his beloved father passing away suddenly at the expressway. His family had been waiting for his father’s return from work so they could break their fast together. However, the phone call had put a halt to all their plans. His father had suffered a heart attack during a delivery job and had to stop his van by the road shoulder. He passed away soon after. His father left behind his mother, Shawal and his two brothers, who were all too saddened to celebrate Aidilfitri that year. Shawal, who is the second child, was twelve years old at the time. After his father’s passing, Shawal saw his mother faced with the task of raising three young children on her own. In 2006, his mother, a former homemaker, eventually approached AMP’s Adopt a Family & Youth Scheme (AFYS) for financial and socio-educational assistance in the form of payment of utilities expenses and examination fees, tuition and religious classes, as well as transport expenses. Shawal and his brothers also received the AMP Ready for School Pack and Education Bursary. Despite the adversities he faced, Shawal forged on and focused his attention on his studies. Now 18, Shawal has grown up to be a matured and responsible young man. He is now a second-year student at Republic Polytechnic, pursuing a Diploma in Sonic Arts. Photo courtesy of Muhammad Shawal Ziyad. AMPlified recently met up with Shawal and he shared the challenges his family faced back then. Shawal (extreme right) and his family. AMPlified: How difficult was it for you and your family when your father passed away? Shawal: It was difficult for me mentally and emotionally. I could not accept the fact that my father had passed away – it was all too sudden. I wished I had spent more quality time with him. After his passing, I did not have the heart to return to school after my PSLE examinations. All I wanted to do was stay at home and mourn. My whole family was at their lowest, with the exception of my youngest brother, who was barely four years old and did not understand that he had just lost his father. I deeply sympathise with him as he had to grow up without a father. My mother often encouraged us to stay strong even though she felt lost as my father was our sole breadwinner. My elder brother tried to put up a strong front but I often saw him on the verge of tears when he was alone. © Association of Muslim Professionals. Permission is required for reproduction. AMPlified: How did you and your family overcome the challenges you faced? Shawal: My mother found a job as a stall assistant several months after my father’s passing. Until today, she is the one who supports the family. She often works long hours just to provide for us. I try to help her out by cutting down expenses as best as I can. For example, I would bring packed food to school and try my best not to spend. I would save my allowance and use it only when needed or during emergencies. I also often remind my younger brother not to waste electricity by switching off all lights and appliances after use. It has been a challenge for me and my elder brother to take care of him, since we have to play the role of a father figure to guide him. AMPlified: How have AMP and the Ready for School Fund assisted your family? Shawal: It has definitely eased my mother’s financial burden. The Ready for School Fund has been really useful as it has helped to pay for our educational expenses. Thanks to the AMP Education Bursary, I need not ask my mother for money too often and that really makes a difference. The AMP Adopt a Family & Youth Scheme (AFYS) has really made an impact in my life as it has supported our family through the hard times. The activities organised under the assistance are memorable and has helped strengthen our family bond. Due to our busy schedules, we rarely have the opportunity to spend time with each other, so the activities organised by AMP gave us the chance to do that. AMP has become a big part of our lives as we have grown up with it over these years. I truly appreciate the assistance rendered to my family and hope that other families in need will be able to benefit as well. AMPlified: What are your educational and future plans? Shawal: My current diploma course is what I am interested in pursuing long-term. I am doing well at school and look forward to going for classes as I am doing the things that I enjoy. Now, I am also doing ad-hoc recordings for friends and acquaintances to earn some money and gain experience. I hope to open my own recording company in the future. Most importantly, I want to be able to make a difference in the local music industry, make a name for myself and make my mother proud. To help disadvantaged families under AFYS achieve self-reliance like Shawal’s, you can sponsor a family at $250 a year or $20 a month. Visit www.amp-afys.sg or call us at 6416 3966 to find out more about the scheme. 9 MARKETPLACE T’HARACAKES T’haracakes specialises in halal fresh decorative cakes at affordable prices for every occasion. It also offers favours such as decorative cupcakes and mini cakes that are individually wrapped and customised to the client’s preferences. Ms Tuty Alawiyah, the proud owner of T’haracakes, has a wide range of experience in participating in numerous cake decorating competitions. For more information or orders on products and services, please visit www.tharacakes.blogspot.com. You may also contact Tuty at 9664 4804 or email [email protected]. SRP CATERING & SERVICES Madam Siti Rodziah, who has 5 years of experience in making and supplying kuehs, recently set up SRP Catering Services. The business offers catering services for weddings, engagement parties and other small functions. It also provides wedding services such as pelamin (wedding dais) set-up, karaoke, kompang, Mak Andam (make-up artist) services, wedding car decoration and many others. For more information or orders on products and services, please contact Siti at 8203 3839 or email [email protected]. SORJANA SATAY Mdm Haliza Hassan and her business partner offer a variety of satays at their stall, Sorjana Satay, located at the Bukit Batok Heavy Vehicle Carpark, off Jurong Road. Established 5 years ago, Sorjana Satay also offers catering services for events and functions. For more information or orders on products and services, please contact Haliza at 9456 3365 / 9271 5500 or email [email protected] SITI TAILORING & TRAINING Mdm Siti of Siti Tailoring & Training has over 20 years’ experience in sewing and dressmaking for a range of women’s and men’s clothing, as well as bridal room bedcovers. With numerous certifications under her belt, she also offers training to interested individuals, particularly the underprivileged. For a nominal fee, she will share basic sewing skills during the training sessions. Siti Tailoring & Training’s speciality lies in its exclusive and sophisticated designs. For more information or orders on products and services, please visit www.facebook.com/ StitchHouse. You may also contact Siti at 9456 4071 or email [email protected]. JANUARY 2011 ■ ■ Official Opening of AMP @ Jurong Point Registration for Micro Business Programme 2011 FEBRUARY 2011 ■ ■ WIEF – Marketplace of Creative Arts, Singapore Leg AMP Community in Review MARCH 2011 ■ ■ Young Couples Programme Retreat AFYS Family Education Programme HIGHLIGHTS UPCOMING All products and services featured in Marketplace are offered by AMP’s clients who run home-based businesses to supplement their household incomes. Registration for Micro Business Programme 2011 January 2011 This year’s Micro Business Programme will be open for registration in January 2011. Individuals from low-income families (monthly household income of less than $3,500 or $500 per capita) who are interested to further develop their entrepreneurial spirit and strengthen their skills in courses such as sewing, food or catering and wedding crafts or accessories are welcome. For more information, please contact Ms Fauziah at 6416 3974 or email her at [email protected]. WIEF – Marketplace of Creative Arts, Singapore Leg February 2011 Young AMP will be organising the Singapore Leg of the World Islamic Economic Forum’s (WIEF) Marketplace of Creative Arts in February 2010. The event hopes to develop a strong presence of Muslim artists from all countries and identify platforms and partnership opportunities to encourage young artists to strive for their creative expressions through the Arts. Visual artists, great musicians and thought-provoking filmmakers from upcoming artists in the Southeast Asian region will be a part of the showcase! Head on down to the event and expect a day filled with entertainment, inspiration and positive vibes! Spread the word! To register, kindly fill in the registration form at www.wief.org/marketplace-of-creative-arts.html. You can also contact Mr Sirajuddin at 6517 4098 or email him at [email protected]. ASSOCIATION OF MUSLIM PROFESSIONALS AMP @ PASIR RIS, 1 Pasir Ris Drive 4, #05-11, Singapore 519457 | Tel: 6416 3966 | Fax: 6583 8028 Email: [email protected] | Website: www.amp.org.sg | Co. Reg. No: 199105100D 10 ISSUE 9 • JAN – MAR 2011 © Association of Muslim Professionals. Permission is required for reproduction.
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