Thursday, November 30, 2023

Yasmin

I met a girl named Yasmin, and they call her Yas, just like your mom used to call you. She looks a lot like you, with similar eyes, nose, face, and even hair. I can't help but wonder where you have been. Whenever I see the Eiffel Tower, it reminds me of you and brings back memories. I really hope you come back home safely.

Dear Yasmin

Dear Yasmin,

Wherever you may be, I want you to know that I am deeply concerned about your well-being. I have been wondering about your whereabouts. Are you safe and sound? Have you encountered any unfortunate circumstances? 

Please take care of yourself. Your mother relies solely on you and doesn't have anyone else in this world. I earnestly implore you to return home safely. Your presence and safety mean the world to her.


With sincere regards,
Imran

Loyalty is nobility

The nobility of characters is loyalty.

— Uyun al-Hikam

Second person

"…your special place in my heart is still there...unshaken.." 

If you truly love me, there will be no room for a second person in your heart. Love should be singular, unwavering, and devoted solely to the one who holds your heart.

Luka hati

Apakah kebahagiaan yang kau sarungkan kau cipta dari luka hati seseorang? — Karl Agan

Love is a complex emotion

Love is a feeling. You can love somebody and stab them in the back.

Love story of Aisyah Hijanah

I know you're feeling sad, Aisyah Hijanah. It's challenging to see someone we love marry someone else. Please remember that our hearts are ultimately under Allah's control, and He has the power to influence and transform people's hearts. In Surah Ad-Dhuha, verse 3, Allah declares that He found you lost and provided guidance. Always keep in mind that Allah is fully aware of our circumstances and is always ready to guide and support us when we are lost or facing difficulties. Stay strong, and may Allah continue to guide you through these tough times.

_

My wife told me a moving story about a love affair where a husband decides to get involved with his wife's best friend.

For men, when your wife hangs out with her friends, it's best to stay out of it. If she invites you to join, politely decline.

Take care of your heart first and make sure no other woman comes between you and your wife.

I miss everything about you

Ara darling,

I know you have been tired staying up all night taking care of our child. I wish I could help you like I used to, but I can't come back home right now. How are the twins? Are they doing well? I miss them tremendously.

I miss everything about you. You are the soul of my soul. Being with you brings me a sense of calm. May Allah take care of you, my dearest wife, just as He takes care of me. I miss you every second that I take a breath.

"قلبي يغرد بحبك كأجمل أغاني البلابل"
(Translation: "My heart sings with love for you, like the most beautiful songs of nightingales.")

Till the end of time,
Abang


29-11-2023

Wednesday, November 29, 2023

They were just kids…

They were just kids. Why did you shoot him? He was running away because he was scared of you, and you shot him. When he fell down, other teenagers tried to help, and you shot him too. They were only 9 and 15 years old.

Allahu Rabbi wa Rabbikum.

Tuesday, November 28, 2023

Warship

I miss you, Ummi. I always remember you telling me, "No matter what happens in life, don't panic. Just take a deep breath, and everything will be okay." It's heartbreaking to know that 15,000 innocent lives have been lost, and there are countless people who have been seriously injured. France has dispatched a hospital ship to Gaza to provide assistance. The ship is equipped with 40 beds, medical doctors, pediatricians, and surgeons. Hopefully, this can help the people in need.

Israel's chemical tankers

Israel has dispatched two massive chemical tankers carrying phosphoric acid to Gaza. These vessels are currently en route. The "relevant authorities" are actively searching for these tankers in order to prevent them from entering Gaza. Yemeni Houthis intercepted a third Israeli-owned boat on their coastline yesterday, which was also transporting phosphoric acid. The chemicals are now in Yemen.

Update:

The tanker carrying the chemicals has been seized by unidentified armed individuals in the Gulf of Aden.

Gaza's aid crisis

Gaza needs 1000 trucks of aid daily, but currently, only 100 trucks are available. Yesterday, Gazans queued for about 2 km to refill their gas canisters. Some used wooden windows and doors to create fires for cooking and light at night. There is still no electricity. If you could see the camps, you would find people there who are starving and have wounds that need medicine. They also don't have enough blankets to keep warm at night, and there is a shortage of clean water. All the camps are filled with people who desperately need these things, but there is not enough to go around. This is a real disaster.

Malaysia-Israel: The Hidden Trade Relationship

By: Aiman Zarul
May 1, 2012

Sometime in 2009, while touring the aisles at my local Kuala Lumpur supermarket, I came across an incongruous item: metal nut-crackers, encased in fetching blue packages bearing Hebrew inscriptions. Loosely deciphering several references including ‘Tel Aviv’, I jovially interrogated my bemused cashier about the origin of the stock, in the process apprising her of its country of manufacture. It was the first time I had seen Israeli products stocked in Malaysia, and it was also to be my last: returning to the store two weeks later, I found that the Israeli nut-crackers had been replaced with harmless Japanese can openers.

My experience was a practical lesson in the blurry enterprise that is Malaysia-Israel trade. Malaysia and Israel do not share political relations, and since 1965, bilateral trade has been indirectly channeled through third markets in a largely discreet process that is consistently disavowed by the Malaysian government. A legacy of popular anti-Israelism and staunch pro-Palestinian sentiment further complicates the picture. Hence why Malaysia’s former Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamed took a slightly harsher lesson in January this year when he accused opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim of surreptitiously disseminating Mossad-supplied data on Malaysia-Israel trade during the former’s tenure. Instead, Mahathir was widely seen as affirming past trade with Israel, and was thus rebuked by conservative Muslim Malaysians for having countenanced such trade. What we both learnt from our separate experiences was that in Malaysia, Israel is still very much taboo.

This is counter-intuitive. Mahathir’s replacement by the milder Ahmad Badawi in 2003, followed by Badawi’s own departure in favor of the Western-educated and secular economist Najib Razak in 2009, would have flushed out much of the virulent anti-Israel sentiment that typified Mahathir’s 23-year rule. Alongside rising income levels, Malaysian civil society has also strengthened in recent years (28 April saw a large pro-democracy rally in Kuala Lumpur, the second in two years), its advocates bidding to reconcile Malaysia’s state-enforced Islamic-Confucian social codes with socially progressive norms such as secularity and pluralism. Combined, these dynamics ought to have erased anachronistic preconceptions that hinder the sort of pragmatic thinking that Malaysia's sustained growth needs. But at least in the context of Israel, they haven't. Public figures still shy from suggesting trade with Israel for fear of receiving the same rapping as Mahathir and Anwar, leaving the private sector to take the lead.

But the hurdles that private actors face are impressive if not prohibitive. Malaysian and Israeli imports are subject to a double layer of import/export licensing rules. On the Malaysian side, this is a progression from the outright ban on Israeli imports (and exports to Israel) that operated before 1998, but the current rules are opaque and highly discretionary. While Israeli companies are able to indirectly flex into the Malaysian market from Singapore-based offices, the rules are a disincentive for Malaysian companies interested in tapping into opportunities in Israel. Ironically, this means that only Malaysian state bodies have the latitude and bureaucratic savvy to engage Israeli entities, and since Mahathir’s departure there have indeed been a handful of instances of Malaysian state-linked firms subtly transacting with Israeli businesses, particularly in confidential or security-related goods and services.

Today, the landscape is less discernible. Three years into his premiership, Najib has kept silent on Israel. He has continued Mahathir’s vision of turning Malaysia into the global hub for Islamic finance, but despite his moderate outlook and efforts to distance himself from Mahathir’s more controversial rhetoric, his job of strengthening ties with other Islamic economies (and re-forging ties with post-Arab Spring governments, many which are controlled by parties openly hostile toward Israel) in the fulfillment of this vision may in fact make it more difficult to ease trade channels with Israel. To be sure, Najib has worked to reinvigorate Malaysia’s traditionally tight relationships with Western partners, long neglected by his predecessors in favor of closer ties with the Organization of the Islamic Conference (OIC) and non-aligned states. Under him, Malaysia has also halted petroleum and palm oil exports to Iran in compliance with U.N. sanctions. But if these steps suggest that a softer stance towards Israel is inevitable, then a latent cautiousness caused by Najib’s own shaky standing among the young conservative rungs of his UMNO party and amplified by the imminence of his first general election, could very well disappoint.

So where are we going? Amongst Malaysia’s small but expanding foreign-educated youth, resolute apathy towards Israel is gently giving way to guarded curiosity. There is a growing interest among high-tech startups (many owned by recently returned graduates) in Israeli technology and business concepts. According to The Economist, Malaysians form a substantial proportion of Muslims taking advantage of current peaceful conditions to join special pilgrimage tours to Jerusalem, and as demand for tour places surges, so is the number of travel agencies approved by the Malaysian authorities to operate such tours. In the formal economy, trade data collated by the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization suggests that much of Israel’s bourgeoning palm oil imports are in fact re-sales of Malaysian produce (Malaysia produces 51% and exports 62% of the world’s palm oil). While a host of factors has caused indirect material trade between Malaysia and Israel to flag considerably over the last 15 years, the substitution of trade in tangible goods for a trade in experiences and ideas may in fact augur very well, if not better, for the Malaysia-Israel relationship.

Monday, November 27, 2023

Beautiful words

"His mere existence, like a flickering candle in the darkest of nights, held the power to soothe hearts and banish the shadows that plagued weary souls. With a gentle smile upon his lips and eyes that twinkled with hidden wisdom, he exuded an enchanting charm that had the power to thaw even the frostiest of hearts. His presence, an ethereal balm, wrapped those in his vicinity in a comforting embrace, radiating a tender solace that whispered of hope and solace. There was an undeniable magnetism in his being, an intangible force that drew troubled spirits like moths to a luminous flame. In his gentle aura, a symphony of understanding and empathy played, each note resonating with clarity and resonance. In his company, the burdens of the world seemed to lighten, and the weight of existence itself became bearable. Oh, how fortunate were those who crossed his path, for they were graced with the gift of his benevolent spirit, forever touched by the magic he effortlessly wove into their lives."

Your words are so beautiful that they bring tears to my eyes. Whenever you write me a love letter, I feel loved and valued. This time, I don't know what to say because I am so overwhelmed. 

I love you, Ara.

This is not a war

I am confused. Is this a war? You guys enjoy breaking into people's houses, shooting at entire families, and stealing their jewelry and money, yet you call yourselves an army. What kind of army are you? A real army wouldn't shoot innocent people who are unarmed. War is when armies battle on a battlefield. That is war. This is not a war; it is a massacre. You kill people as if they are stones without any feeling. They are human. This is so bullshit!

Sunday, November 26, 2023

Damascus airport is down

Israel has attacked Damascus using air strikes, which has led to the closure of the airport. For now, all incoming flights have been redirected to other airports.

Violent Incident

The temporary ceasefire is coming to an end today, but yesterday saw the unfortunate loss of six lives and the detention of five individuals by the army. Among those detained were two individuals who had been injured and were taken from Red Crescent ambulances. The Israeli army also caused destruction to the sewage and drinking water networks in the street camp

Praying with you

The other night, I dreamt about you. It was the day you told me that you were feeling dizzy. In my dream, I was praying, and as I to give my salam, I noticed that you were praying behind me.

Sunday

"Hari ini Ahad. Seronoknya kalau berada di rumah; boleh kejar rama-rama, bagi ikan makan, tengok anak itik berenang, sedut madu kelulut, makan ubi rebus. Lebih kurang seminggu lagi, Costa Rica akan berubah musim." 
As I write this, my mind goes to you, my dear. I miss cooking with you in the kitchen, hugging you from behind, giving you a secret kiss on your cheek, and drinking from the same spot on the mug where your lips touched.

I miss you, darling.


26-11-2023

Carrying a burden in the heart

Ya Rabb, I can't thank You enough for making her open her heart and reach out to me again. It brings me immense joy, even though I have to prepare myself to say goodbye once more. Only You know the deep feelings I hold in my heart. Only You know how heavily I carry this burden in my heart.

I am deeply in love with her, yet you have not allowed her to be a part of my life. I don't understand the reasons behind this, and I won't question your divine decree for me. I firmly believe that everything you have planned is ultimately for my own good, even if it causes me pain.

23-11-2023

Saturday, November 25, 2023

Tyra

Last night, I dreamt that you rested your head in the palm of my right hand. In the dream, you were accompanied by your daughter named Tyra, and you were pregnant. Your belly was so big that it made it challenging for you to move, and you appeared tired.

In the dream, I was at a lake with very blue water. I didn't know exactly where it was because there were a lot of people there. Even after I woke up, I still felt the sensation of your head resting in my hand. It made me feel something that I can't quite describe

Gazans returning home

Since yesterday, thousands of Gazans have returned to their homes following a temporary ceasefire. The hostages have been released and joyfully reunited with their families and loved ones. 

Friday, November 24, 2023

Irreplaceable wife

My dearest Ara,

Thank you for your understanding and selflessness. I will take care of myself as I too want to come back home to reunite with you. It hurts every time we say goodbye, but what hurts even more is saying goodbye without the possibility of seeing you again. I want to see you again. I miss you and I want to remind you to take care of yourself. Whatever happens, I have forgiven you, and I always pray that Allah will grant you the highest heaven as a reward. You are an incredibly dear and irreplaceable wife.

Forever yours,
Abang

Footnote: Please keep my wedding ring safe. I will reclaim it once I return home.

A way of rejuvenating the mind

I didn't go outside. I took some rest. I did some cooking, washed my clothes, performed Sunnah prayers, and spent time reading the Quran. The Quran never fails to be the best companion. It enables me to let go of any anxiety, troubles, or stress I might feel. I took some time to write and jot down notes.

After the Isya prayer, I called Ara, and we had a two-hour-and-a-half-long conversation. She seemed okay, but she appeared somewhat fatigued and burdened with worries. She informed me that she had been avoiding the news recently to prevent further mental strain or overthinking and I comforted her.

Today marked the first time I called Ara since leaving home. The children are faring well. Huda is preoccupied with her final essay, while Umar and Adam are studying for an exam. As for the twins, they are as cheerful as ever. Ara takes them to the garden every morning for their daily butterfly-catching routine.

24-11-2023

The world we live in now


We are living in a world where life doesn't hold much value anymore. Cries can be heard everywhere as people lose their belongings, lives, and loved ones. If we were to experience the same, would we prefer to ignore it and pretend nothing is happening? The truth is, without our help, they are left feeling hopeless.

Photo: Dr. Shadia

Babies are crying for help



Starting from Thursday, there will be a four-day truce between Hamas and Israel, but the attacks have continued, with Israel primarily targeting children and infants today.

Correction: The four-day ceasefire between Israel and Hamas is scheduled to commence at 7 a.m. local time on Friday. This incident occurred prior to the ceasefire taking effect.

Photo: Dr. Shadia

Detention of Palestinian children

Reports indicate that Israel reportedly detains approximately 500-700 Palestinian children each year, with ages ranging from 12 to 17. Alarmingly, roughly 60% of these children experience physical mistreatment during their nighttime arrests, which involves actions such as blindfolding, restraining their hands, and beatings inflicted by the military. Upon reaching an Israeli interrogation facility, approximately 80% of Palestinian children go through strip searches conducted by adult Israeli soldiers before undergoing interrogation.

My instinct

My instinct tells me that she will reply to my email eventually. Perhaps she needs some time to figure out what's causing her dizziness. Who knows, if it's God's will, I will hear from her again.

Thursday, November 23, 2023

The wonderful part of our love

As I anticipated, I didn't receive an email from her. It's possible that yesterday's events have left her traumatized. She feels dizzy, which could be because of her morning coffee, my email, or maybe she's pregnant. Morning sickness is often linked to pregnancy. She expressed a wish to keep her distance from me, and I couldn't be selfish by stopping her. Our love is a mix of tears, fear, uneasiness, and uncertainty, just like it was years ago. Even though we shed tears, we discover happiness along the way, which is the wonderful part of our love. It makes us stronger as time goes on. Maybe, at this point, we feel too old to face these difficulties once more.

24-11-2023

Air strikes on residential homes

There has been a significant increase in air strikes targeting residential homes in the southern regions of Gaza. These areas were initially designated by the Israeli army as safe zones for Palestinians to evacuate to from the northern parts of Gaza. However, those who sought refuge in these areas now find themselves subjected to intense bombardment, with unpredictable bombs falling on their homes. Despite being labeled as "safe places" to flee to, these areas are now facing the same level of heavy attacks from Israel.

Love often comes with loss

I feel like I've lost you again, and this time it feels much heavier than before. It's as if I don't want to say goodbye, but love often comes with loss. It's part of the deal. If you were mine, you would always be mine. If not, I will always love you from afar until death parts us.

23-11-2023

Resah di hatimu

Resahmu sampai ke hatiku, sayang. Aku cuba menahan air mata, namun tumpah jua akhirnya. Andai itu yang terbaik buatmu, seperti masa lalu - aku turutkan tanpa bantahan, kerana seperti selalunya, kebahagiaanmu segala-galanya buatku.

23-11-2023

Conflict update

The conflict has expanded to northern Lebanon, with reports stating that the Israeli army has deployed white phosphorus in several villages. There are also reports of missile launches by Israel towards the southern border of Lebanon. Moreover, the Israeli army has carried out rocket attacks targeting the capital city of Syria, Damascus.

Starvation crisis in Gaza

Two million people are currently starving without food in Gaza.

Wednesday, November 22, 2023

No fuel for the hospital

The Israeli government has agreed to permit the delivery of fuel to the Gaza Strip every two days. A total of 140,000 liters (37,000 gallons) of fuel was transported from Egypt. However, during the four-day ceasefire period, the Israeli government has imposed restrictions on the quantity of fuel allowed to enter. To make matters worse, the fuel is not being sent directly to the hospitals.

Ceasefire

The Israeli government has agreed to a four-day ceasefire and will release Palestinian citizens from its jails. Similarly, Hamas will release Israelis who are being held hostage. However, it's important to note that despite the temporary break in fighting for four days, the war will continue. Israel's main objective in this conflict is to completely dismantle the Hamas organization.

Monday, November 20, 2023

Inhuman

The patients from Al-Shifa Hospital have been forced to relocate to Nasser Medical Complex and the European Gaza Hospital. Both of these hospitals were already struggling to cope with a high influx of patients, and the additional transfer of patients from Al-Shifa has further exacerbated the situation, posing challenges for both patients and healthcare workers. The military has persistently targeted the hospital, and now they have shifted their focus to attacking schools.

In al-Shafa Hospital, there are currently 291 patients and 25 healthcare workers. Among the patients, there are 32 infants in critical condition, and 2 individuals in intensive care who do not have access to ventilators. There are 29 patients with serious spinal injuries kowho require continuous medical assistance to move. The hospital faces a distressing situation as many trauma patients suffer from severe wound infections, primarily due to inadequate infection control measures and the unavailability of antibiotics.

In a recent event, the Israeli military deployed tanks to surround and attack Indonesia Hospital in Gaza, resulting in the death of 12 people and causing numerous injuries. Another incident occurred yesterday in which two schools were targeted. One of them was a United Nations-operated school in Gaza, where 24 fatalities were reported. Another tragic incident occurred at Al-Fakhoura school, leading to the loss of 200 lives. Currently, there are numerous bodies on the ground, waiting to be collected.

The brutal attacks on schools and hospitals are justified by the claim of searching for Hamas military bases. However, it is widely recognized that these locations do not house any tunnels, weapons, or similar items. These attacks seem to lack any justifiable reason and demonstrate a disregard for humanity. espite the Palestinian authorities' request for a five-day ceasefire to protect civilians, Israel has rejected the proposal and, rather than halting the attacks, has escalated them.

O Allah

Children, men, women, and doctors are crying everywhere. Their cries can be heard no matter where you go.

Gone forever

When I see those kids, it amazes me how they can still smile even though they've been through really tough times. They treat older people with respect and love, despite experiencing sadness from losing their own family members. They share their food, laugh together, and play as if nothing bad has happened. It's heartwarming to witness their ability to find joy and strength in difficult times.

Update:

They were all gone when the bomb exploded this morning.

Sunday, November 19, 2023

Heavy heart and tears

Every morning, I watch the sun come up from my bedroom. It's bright and beautiful, like a sign that a new journey is about to start. In places affected by war, people wake up with hope that the fighting will stop, and they can live normal lives like everyone else. The houses where happy families used to live are destroyed. Parents who used to play with their kids have to bury their young children, saying goodbye with a heavy heart and tears. Last night, the Israeli army carried out airstrikes and heavy bombings, specifically targeting residential buildings in Beit Bahia.

Saturday, November 18, 2023

Endlessly treasure

At 4:15 am, I wake up and get ready for the Fajr prayer. I feel a strong craving for my wife's black tea and a slice of toast with a perfectly cooked half-boiled egg.

"My love, for you, my heart does yearn,
A woman of such grace,
it's for you I turn.
In the vast symphony of life, you are my sweetest measure,
A bond of unconditional love, I endlessly treasure."

19-11-2023

Grievous endings

A young girl suffered grave injuries, and the doctor had to amputate all four of her limbs without the use of anesthesia. The Israeli army conducted a raid on al-Shifa Hospital, searching for weapons, tunnels, and vehicles, but their search yielded no results. It is a heartbreaking situation where tragically 22 patients in the ICU and 6 dialysis patients lost their lives today. Many patients will fall to the same fate due to a lack of fuel. During the night, all patients are forced to rely on candles for light.

There are multiple snipers positioned near al-Shifa Hospital who are targeting civilians seeking refuge there.



Updates:

In response to pressure from the United Nations, Israel has announced its decision to allow the entry of two fuel trucks per day.

Israel is reportedly planning a large-scale evacuation at al-Shifa Hospital, similar to the ongoing situation in northern Gaza, with the aim of encouraging more people to relocate to the south.

The hospital has come under the control of the Israeli army.

Mossad in Malaysia?

IGP says foreign spies might be in Malaysia, but intelligence reports shows no locals are agents

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 17 — Foreign intelligence agents, including Israel’s Mossad, could have infiltrated Malaysia to carry out spying activities, Utusan Malaysia reported today.

However, the newspaper cited Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain as saying that Malaysian intelligence reports show that no locals have turned agents as those hired by the foreigners were only given certain tasks and did not know the true identities of their employers.

“This happened to a group of 11 Malaysians, masterminded by a woman, who were involved in the kidnapping a Palestinian man to obtain information related to a mobile phone hacking software in September last year.

“The main suspect, who works as a private investigator, was hired and paid generously by overseas parties who were actually foreign intelligence agents before the group were arrested by the police," Razarudin was quoted as saying.

Razarudin said police constantly conduct intelligence and monitoring activities to ensure that national security is guaranteed.

“If there are threatening elements, the police will of course take appropriate action," he was quoted as saying.

In October last year, 10 men and a woman were charged in the Magistrate's Court here on charges of kidnapping a Palestinian man to solicit information on software to hack mobile phones.

They were involved in a brazen snatch-and-grab operation where they intercepted a Palestinian computer programmer.

Media reports later revealed that Mossad agents had engaged the Malaysians to track down and abduct the Palestinian they believed to be assets of Hamas, which is the de facto Palestinian government.

© Yahoo. All rights reserved.

Friday, November 17, 2023

War has never been easy

War is never a simple ordeal for anyone involved. Those affected often find themselves stripped of their homes, their children, and their partners. The luxuries of a cozy mattress, soft pillows, and warm blankets are replaced by the harsh realities of survival. Their minds are filled with the constant tension of staying alive, each breath heavy with fear and uncertainty about the future. Hunger becomes a constant companion due to food shortages, and sleep is scarce amidst the insecurity. Clean water becomes a luxury as the supply lines are disrupted. They live shrouded in darkness, as even electricity becomes a distant memory.

If today you find yourself able to embrace and kiss your children and spouse, share a meal with them, and sleep securely in your own home, give thanks to Allah. You have more to be grateful for than you realize. Push your difficulties aside for a moment and take stock of your blessings.

Healthcare system near collapse

Many healthcare workers have been killed or injured, and the healthcare system is on the verge of collapse. They are running out of medicines and medical supplies. Innocent children have lost their fathers and mothers. Many are in critical condition in the CCU, and the Israeli army has directed the doctors and all the staff to leave the hospital.

Thursday, November 16, 2023

Hamas military base

For the second time, al-Shifa Hospital has become a target, as per the belief of US intelligence that the hospital serves as a Hamas military base.

No network coverage

Israel has severed the energy supply to the Gaza Strip, leaving the region without any network or internet coverage. As a result, people are unable to send or receive news or communicate with one another. The situation is even more dire as it becomes difficult for those affected by bombardments to call for an ambulance. The population is currently enduring immense hardship due to the shortage of vital resources such as food, water, fuel, and electricity.

Tuesday, November 14, 2023

Express our feelings

If we don't tell people how we feel, how will they know?

White Phosphorus

Israel: White Phosphorus Used in Gaza, Lebanon Use in Populated Areas Poses Grave Risks to Civilians

(Beirut, October 12, 2023) – Israel’s use of white phosphorus in military operations in Gaza and Lebanon puts civilians at risk of serious and long-term injuries, Human Rights Watch said today in releasing a question and answer document on white phosphorus. Human Rights Watch verified videos taken in Lebanon and Gaza on October 10 and 11, 2023, respectively, showing multiple airbursts of artillery-fired white phosphorus over the Gaza City port and two rural locations along the Israel-Lebanon border, and interviewed two people who described an attack in Gaza.

White phosphorus, which can be used either for marking, signaling, and obscuring, or as a weapon to set fires that burn people and objects, has a significant incendiary effect that can severely burn people and set structures, fields, and other civilian objects in the vicinity on fire. The use of white phosphorus in Gaza, one of the most densely populated areas in the world, magnifies the risk to civilians and violates the international humanitarian law prohibition on putting civilians at unnecessary risk.

“Any time that white phosphorus is used in crowded civilian areas, it poses a high risk of excruciating burns and lifelong suffering,” said Lama Fakih, Middle East and North Africa director at Human Rights Watch. “White phosphorous is unlawfully indiscriminate when airburst in populated urban areas, where it can burn down houses and cause egregious harm to civilians.”

On October 11, Human Rights Watch interviewed by phone two people from the al-Mina area in Gaza City, who described observing strikes consistent with the use of white phosphorus. One was in the street at the time, while the other was in a nearby office building. Both described ongoing airstrikes before seeing explosions in the sky followed by what they described as white lines going earthward. They estimated that the attack took place sometime between 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Both said that the smell was stifling. The person who was in his office said that the smell was so strong that he went toward the window to see what was happening and then filmed the strike.

Human Rights Watch reviewed the video and verified that it was taken in Gaza City’s port and identified that the munitions used in the strike were airburst 155mm white phosphorus artillery projectiles. Other videos posted to social media and verified by Human Rights Watch show the same location. Dense white smoke and a garlic smell are characteristics of white phosphorus.

Human Rights Watch also reviewed two videos from October 10 from two locations near the Israel-Lebanon border. Each shows 155mm white phosphorus artillery projectiles being used, apparently as smokescreens, marking, or signaling.

White phosphorus ignites when exposed to atmospheric oxygen and continues to burn until it is deprived of oxygen or exhausted. Its chemical reaction can create intense heat (about 815°C/1,500°F), light, and smoke.

Upon contact, white phosphorus can burn people, thermally and chemically, down to the bone as it is highly soluble in fat and therefore in human flesh. White phosphorus fragments can exacerbate wounds even after treatment and can enter the bloodstream and cause multiple organ failure. Already dressed wounds can reignite when dressings are removed and the wounds are re-exposed to oxygen. Even relatively minor burns are often fatal. For survivors, extensive scarring tightens muscle tissue and creates physical disabilities. The trauma of the attack, the painful treatment that follows, and appearance-changing scars lead to psychological harm and social exclusion.

The use of white phosphorus in densely populated areas of Gaza violates the requirement under international humanitarian law to take all feasible precautions to avoid civilian injury and loss of life, Human Rights Watch said. This concern is amplified given the technique evidenced in videos of airbursting white phosphorus projectiles. Airbursting of white phosphorus projectiles spreads 116 burning felt wedges impregnated within the substance over an area between 125 and 250 meters in diameter, depending on the altitude of the burst, thereby exposing more civilians and civilian structures to potential harm than a localized ground burst.

Israeli authorities have not commented on whether or not they used white phosphorus during the ongoing fighting.

Israel’s use of white phosphorus comes amid hostilities following Hamas’ deadly attacks on October 7 and subsequent rocket attacks that have killed, as of October 12, more than 1,300 Israelis, including hundreds of civilians, and taking of scores of Israelis as hostages in violation of international humanitarian law. Heavy Israeli bombardment of Gaza in this period has killed, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry, more than 1,400 Palestinians in Gaza, including scores of civilians, and displaced more than 338,000 people. Many communities in southern Israel have also been displaced and more than 1,500 Palestinian militants reportedly died in Israel. Israeli authorities have cut electricity, water, fuel and food into Gaza, in violation of the international humanitarian law prohibition against collective punishment, exacerbating the dire humanitarian situation from over 16 years of Israeli closure.

Human Rights Watch has documented the Israeli military’s use of white phosphorus in previous conflicts in Gaza, including in 2009. Israel should ban all use of “airburst” white phosphorus munitions in populated areas without exception. There are readily available and non-lethal alternatives to white phosphorus smoke shells, including some produced by Israeli companies, which the Israeli army has used in the past as an obscurant for its forces. These alternatives have the same effect and dramatically reduce the harm to civilians.

In 2013, in response to a petition to Israel’s High Court of Justice regarding the use of white phosphorus in Gaza, the Israeli military stated that it would no longer use white phosphorus in populated areas except in two narrow situations that it revealed only to the justices. In the court’s ruling, Justice Edna Arbel said that the conditions would “render use of white phosphorous an extreme exception in highly particular circumstances.” Although this ruling did not represent an official change in policy, Justice Arbel called on the Israeli military to conduct a “thorough and comprehensive examination” and adopt a permanent military directive.

Attacks using air-delivered incendiary weapons in civilian areas are prohibited under Protocol III of the Convention on Conventional Weapons (CCW). While the protocol contains weaker restrictions for ground-launched incendiary weapons, all types of incendiary weapons produce horrific injuries. Protocol III applies only to weapons that are “primarily designed” to set fires or cause burns, and thus some countries believe it excludes certain multipurpose munitions with incendiary effects, notably those containing white phosphorus.

Human Rights Watch and many states have long called for closing these loopholes in Protocol III. These attacks should add impetus to the calls from at least two dozen countries for the CCW Meeting of States Parties to set aside time to discuss the adequacy of Protocol III. The next meeting is scheduled for November at the United Nations in Geneva.

Palestine joined Protocol III on January 5, 2015, and Lebanon on April 5, 2017, while Israel has not ratified it.

“To avoid civilian harm, Israel should stop using white phosphorus in populated areas,” Fakih said. “Parties to the conflict should be doing everything they can to spare civilians from further suffering.”


Sadness of the person left behind

I always remembered you as a soft-spoken woman with a gentle heart. You used to treat me kindly and nicely until he came between us. Since he entered your life, you have changed dramatically. You've become a person I no longer recognize. You no longer speak softly to me. Sometimes, I feel like you act arrogant, even if you don't realize it. It's how I see you in certain situations. You can't ignore how other people see you sometimes. I don't need an apology or anything like that. I'm just really sad about how you treated me back then. And that sadness still stays with me even now.

The person who leaves is never sad; it is the person who gets left behind.

Tak terbayang




"Umat Islam di ambang peperangan. Ara jangan takut, jangan gentar sekalipun nyawa di hujung tanduk"
"……"
"Abang dah ajar Ara menembak, teknik bertempur, survival In sha Allah, kalau jadi apa-apa Ara mampu tempuh"
"……"
"Perempuan memang tak pergi ke medan perang tapi sebagai suami, abang dah siapkan bekalan untuk Ara. Rajin selawat, jangan tinggal Quran"
"Abang…"
"Dekat YouTube banyak video pasal P. Sayu hati tengok budak-budak terperangkap dalam runtuhan. Menjerit minta tolong. Tadi Ara tunjuk video, sedih sangat rasa"
"Kalau anak kita…tak terbayang…"

He or she?

"Semalam abang cakap kalau belum jadi T20, boleh usaha. Peluang terbuka luas. Orang tu macam marah. Dia kata bukan semua berniaga nak duit. Habis, dia meniaga nak apa?"
"Kan Ara dah kata, abang jangan cakap pasal duit dengan orang. Cara abang berfikir tak sama. Otak abang 24 jam fikir duit"
"Yelah. Lepas ni tak cakap dah. Abang tak perli ke apa pun. Abang cuma cakap, kalau usaha boleh jadi T20 sebab banyak peluang. Tu je"
"Maybe he or she is going through difficult times, and your words didn't help them. Sometimes we have tried our best, but we haven't been fortunate. Just avoid discussing money with people. People outside your circle generally dislike talking about money. It can make them feel irritated"
"Okey, okey tak cakap dah"
"He or she?"
"Ha?"
"Kawan abang tu"
"She"
"Kawan abang semua she, bisnes abang semua he"
"Eh tahu haha"
"What's her name?"
"Pandai perangkap"
"I'm a lawyer"

Monday, November 13, 2023

Puitis dan garang

"Abang sayang Ara tak?"
"Beribu kali dah tanya"
"Jawab la"
"*Aku ingin kau tahu apa yang ada di dalam hatiku untukmu, tetapi tidak ada cara untuk kau tahu kecuali dengan tindakanku."
"Puitis juga Saidina Umar al-Khattab walaupun garang"
"Semua laki garang puitis. Nak claim jugak hahaha"
"Mengada"

*ʿUmar ibn al-Khattab

Wangian

"Jangan pakai perfume tu"
"Kuat ke bau dia?"
"Abang suka bau tu. Tak nak orang lain bau"
"Yang ni okey?"
"Ha boleh"
"Perfume kita semua abang suka"
"Memang la. Dulu jatuh cinta bau Chanel"
"Hihi"
"Dalam Islam, perempuan haram pakai minyak wangi terutama yang bau kuat. Wangian menarik perhatian lelaki, menggugat iman. Boleh mendatangkan fitnah"
"Patut la abang selalu larang kita"
"Kalau nak pakai luar rumah, pakai yang tak bau sangat. Sekadar untuk halang bau badan dan beri keselesaan"
"Oo"
"Kalau Ara pakai yang bau kuat, lepas tu ada lelaki bau, lelaki tu dapat dosa. Ara pun dapat dosa"
"Ala…"
"Sebab tu dulu abang tak datang dekat Ara. Bau tu dah cukup buat abang tergoda walaupun tak kuat mana. Kalau Baba tak perkenalkan, tak kawin la kita haha"
"Abang memang tau. Kita tertanya-tanya kenapa abang tak tegur kita"
"Nak tegur macam mana. Dah la cantik, wangi pulak. Kang tak balik rumah nanti"
"Pernah kita pergi Kino, abang tak datang. Kita tunggu abang dua jam, tapi tak ada. Kita rasa mesti dah tak dapat jumpa abang. Minggu depan abang datang, happy-nya kita masa tu. Kita tak cam sangat, sebab abang dah tak ada jambang"
"Abang tahu Ara curi-curi tengok abang"
"Obvious ke? Alaaa malunya"
"*In this world, there are two things that can take my breath away, you and death."
"I like a man with a beard who loves books, rolls up his sleeves to the elbow, smells good, and is handsome. Kita suka abang. Dari sisi abang nampak kemas. Handsome. Handsome tu penting hihi"
"You can't take your eyes off me, can you?"
"Takkk. Perasan"
"Hahaha"
"I'm afraid of losing you, even though I wasn't yours at that time"

*Adam Al-Zelia

Q

Daddy: Nama bandar mula huruf Q
Umar: Qurayyat
Adam: Quezon City
Kakak: Alaa
Umar: Quebec
Adam: Queens
Daddy: Cepat Kakak fikir
Kakak: Quala Lumpur hihi
Daddy: Mandai je

Monk

Adam: Can we stay here?
Daddy: No
Umar: Kitalah nomad antarabangsa
Daddy: Daddy tua nanti kita duduk sini
Huda: Maybe not
Umar: Kita duduk London
Adam: Tak best
Daddy: Duduk dalam hutan
Umar: Hutan lagi
Huda: Again?
Adam: Kenapa hutan?
Daddy: Duduk atas gunung pun boleh
Adam: Macam monk
Umar: Lonely-nya hidup daddy


19 April 2023, 5.07 pm

 Allahumma Salli wa Sallim 'alaa Nabiyyinaa Muhammad

Jangan lari dari medan perang

Daddy: Umar, Adam. Kalau satu hari nanti kita kena pergi berperang, jangan takut untuk mati syahid. Jangan sesekali gentar, kuatkan hati. Jangan lari dari medan perang. Kalau musuh datang rapat, jangan berganjak
Adam: Tapi kena pedang sakit, daddy
Daddy: Nabi pesan kita jangan lari dari medan perang. Daddy kan dah ajar cara bertempur, memanah, berenang. Jangan takut. Kena rajin zikir
Umar: Akhir zaman kita kena berperang
Daddy: Tak semestinya kita perang guna anak panah dan kuda, tapi kita kena mahir sebab semua tu sunnah nabi

Raatan Lambiyan


Stay away

"Stay away from the ones you love too much. Those are the ones who will kill you."

— Donna Tartt, The Goldfinch

July 26, 2021 3.18pm

Forensic accounting.

Money Laundering and Specialized Fraud, Master in Forensic Accounting.

April 6, 2022

Pendirian

Asalkan awak berpegang kepada pendirian, awak tak akan hilang arah.

14.06.2021, 1.04 pagi

Tidak seperti

Kerana apa yang di ucapkan, tidak seperti apa yang kita harapkan.

14.10.2023, 12:30 pagi

Delicious

Sex is kinda like cooking. Everyone can do it, but only some can make it truly delicious.

— Unknown

Love and forget

A woman can love you like crazy, and also forget about your existence.

— Danilyn Traya

Sunday, November 12, 2023

Ubat kuat tradisional

"Cuba ambil separuh bawang merah, Tiga ulas bawang putih, separuh timun, halia besar ibu jari. Potong kecil lepas tu blend. Masukkan timun dulu kemudian bawang putih. Lepas tu bawang merah dengan halia"
"Resepi apa tu?"
"Buat dulu"
"Cakap dulu"
"Ubat kuat tradisional"
"Mano jupo?"
"Ada la. Buat, abang nak cuba.Katanya, lepas minum tak boleh tengok bini, nak terkam selalu hahahaha"
"Tok soh la. Kuat doh"
"Saja la nak cuba. Kalau power nak suruh orang lain minum"
"Oyak ko dio caro buat. Biar dio acu cubo try test"
"Buat segelas"
"Abe nok g kijo doh kea. Nati gapo-gapo susoh"
"Haah kan. Bini tak ada. Dalam tu dia tulis kalau tak ada bini, jangan buat. Nanti panjat dinding hahaha"
"Galok sungguh la"
"Haa kalau nak minum kena lepas 30-45 minit sebab nak bagi ramuan sebati. Saja la bagitahu kot Ara nak share resepi dengan bini sengsara di luar sana"
"Dok. Tok sey oyak ko ore. Malu"
"Ara memang"


*Tidak menanggung sebarang risiko

Exploring Poás Volcano National Park

Poás Volcano National Park is situated around 20 kilometers to the northeast of La Paz Waterfall Gardens and it usually takes between 40 minutes to an hour to reach there by car. The journey doesn't require a 4WD as the road is well paved, and travelers can enjoy the stunning green landscapes along the way. On our route, we made a stop at a village named Vara Blanca, which is a great spot to purchase fresh strawberries.

The Volcano of Poás is known for possessing the largest volcanic crater in the world. We were lucky enough to witness the crater and its lagoon, a sight that's often obscured by clouds during the rainy season. The crater lake is renowned for its high levels of acidity, with pH values close to 0. The volcano is still active and there was an instance a few years back when the park had to be shut down due to a major eruption.

Exploring La Paz Waterfall Gardens

Costa Rica has more than five beautiful waterfalls, and the country is famous for its volcanoes. Yes, you are right, the volcano is still active. Today, I took my kids to La Paz Waterfall Gardens. The forest there is amazing, with lots of different animals and plants. Since it's the rainy season, there aren't many people, so we can take our time and explore without feeling rushed.

My little kids were really excited to see animals in the wild. They were very happy when they saw butterflies and big cats like jaguars. Adam, as usual, loves snakes. But because of the weather, the snakes were not very active, so we didn't see many of them. We also found other interesting places to visit, like the Monkey Pass, Frog Garden, and Aviary. It's worth a visit, and you won't regret it.

Traveling with your partner

Traveling with your partner is a beautiful thing you can do in your life.


La Paz Waterfall Gardens, Costa Rica
Nov 11, 2023

Saturday, November 11, 2023

You're welcome

"Thank you for making me feel loved and safe."   — Ara

 

Nov 11, 2023; 3.35am

Friday, November 10, 2023

Butang

"Ara, tolong pakaikan butang"
"Manja"
"Ara je yang pandai butangkan"
"Dah. Handsome"
"I would like to hold you in my arms tonight"
*senyum*
"Tu orang kata, dah buat tak boleh berhenti hahaha"
"Mengada"
"Abang pergi dulu. Bye!"
*senyum*
"Pantang kena cium curi, suka betul dia"
"Biar la"
"Lose sense of reality kan hehe"
"Abanggg"

Dragon fruit

"Abang beli benih sini. Bukan Malaysia punya. Kan dragon fruit memang asal sini"
"Ara tak tahu pun"
"Asal-usul dragon fruit dari selatan Mexico. Banyak di tanam di El Salvador, Costa Rica dan Guatemala"
"Oo"
"Kalau dekat Malaysia, isi putih biji hitam. Dekat sini, yang rare isi merah biji hitam. Satu lagi, yellow dragon fruit. Malaysia tak ada"
"La yang kuning tu dragon fruit ke?"
"Ye la. Kulit kuning, isi putih, biji hitam macam satu budak Cina nama Kim Doo Sung"
"Siapa tu? Nama Korea, bukan Cina"
"Abang tipu je. Ara pun"
"Eee!" *pap pap pap*

Farm house

"Bye-bye Ibu cepat. Kita nak pergi kolam. Nak bagi ikan makan"
"Bye-bye. Hati-hati tau"
"Kejab lagi kita tengok dragon fruit dah masak ke belum"
"Nak ikut la"
"Jom. Kalau abang tahu Ara suka, dah lama abang cari farm house"
"Farm house tak nak"
"Pulak"
"Rural area"
"Macam-macam"
"Kawasan kampung sangat Ara takut"
"Boleh tanam banyak lagi. Ada satu farm house siap dapat 3 ekor kuda dengan ATV"
"Abang ajak kita pindah farm house, kita keluar dari Costa Rica"
"Amboi!"

Jangan tarik selimut

"Abang, bangun"
"5 minit"
"Bangun, sayang"
"Araaaaa! Jangan tarik selimut. Kain abang dah terlondeh"
"Hihi"
"Araaaaaa"

Our night together

"Assalamualaikum ya habibi"
"Waalaikumussalam"


"*Your beauty, like the moon, lights up my night,
Guiding me through darkness with its gentle light.
Your voice, a melody that soothes my soul,
Like a river's song, it makes me whole."
"I lose my sense of reality when I'm with you"
"I lose mine too"


*Qays ibn al-Mulawwah

Thursday, November 09, 2023

Striker terhebat

"Ara, abang nak tidur kejab. Mengantuk. Tak cukup tidur "
"Demo buat gapo smale?"
"Jadi striker terhebat hahaha"
"Galok la dio"

Tenang menerima takdir

Al-Muhasibi menyatakan bahawa keadaan seseorang yang berada dalam sifat reda ialah ketika hatinya merasa bahagia sewaktu menerima takdir yang mendukacitakan.

Dari Anas bin Malik, beliau berkata bahawa Nabi S.A.W bersabda, “Ya Allah, tidak ada yang mudah di dalam kehidupan ini, kecuali yang Engkau menjadikannya mudah. Dan sesuatu yang Engkau jadikan susah (sulit), kalau Allah berkehendak pasti akan menjadi mudah."

Sahih Ibnu Hibban 3/255


(Dr. Nur Mohammad Hadi Zahalan)

Patah pinggang

"Hi handsome. How are ya?"
"I letih. Penat kejar kupu-kupu sampai 3 jam hahahaha. Pagi ni macam nak patah pinggang"
"Hebak demo hihi"

Wednesday, November 08, 2023

Handphone

Daddy: Handphone semua okey lagi?
Umar: Okey
Daddy: Bila last tukar?
Umar: 6 atau 7 tahun lepas
Kakak: It's been a long time
Daddy: Phone apa yang paling best sekarang?
Kakak: Tentu la iPhone 15 Pro Max
Umar: Vivo X90 Pro
Adam: Google Pixel 8 Pro
Kakak: When did Google start making smartphones?
Daddy: Lama dah
Adam: Daddy nak beli phone apa?
Daddy: Honor X9b 5G. Dalam iklan, phone ni paling lasak. Terhempas tempat tinggi, steady
Umar: Boleh percaya ke?
Daddy: Kena beli baru tahu. Setakat ni, Tecno Phantom V Fold tak mengecewakan
Adam: Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra?
Daddy: Paling best!. Tapi daddy sayang nak guna sebab Ibu bagi. Honor tu daddy nak pakai kerja. Kalau jatuh skrin tak pecah
Kakak: Asal korang tak nak ip?
Umar: Lemau
Adam: Spec tak best
Daddy: Kakak cuba guna android. Mana tahu best
Kakak: iPhones are always the best
Umar: For you, but not for everyone else
Daddy: Nak handphone apa ni?
Kakak: Of course la iPhone 15 Pro Max
Daddy: Umar dengan Adam?
Umar: Babang tak kisah
Adam: Adam nak Pixel Pro 8. Boleh tak daddy?
Daddy: Boleh. Umar cepat nak apa?
Umar: Daddy pilih yang terbaik. Babang tak kisah
Kakak: Macam pilih jodoh gitu hehehe
Umar: Jodoh Babang, daddy yang cari
Daddy: Jodoh-jodoh tak ada kaitan dengan daddy. Tu pilih sendiri. Sampai jodoh nak kena cari. Bila nak buat keputusan sendiri?
Kakak: Islamik gitu
Adam: Babang pilih sama daddy. Ibu pilih phone mesti best
Kakak: Kipas mati Ibu
Adam: Ibu sebelum beli, Ibu baca banyak. Kakak ikut trend
Umar: Kena sebijik hahaha
Kakak: Daddy tolong backing Kakak, pleaseee
Daddy: Daddy neutral
Umar: Hohohohoho

BRI investment

From 2014 to 2018, Malaysia invested a total of USD 15.8 billion in Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) projects. Malaysia was involved in several BRI projects, including the East Coast Rail Link and two pipeline projects, and is ranked among the top 10 countries investing in this mega project.

Masam

"Hi habibi. How are you?"
"I'm full of beans"
"Kemain padu dia lari semalam"
"Hihi"
"Mana tak lena tidur"
"Sorry, honey. I fell asleep like a light"
"Tak apa. Tidur pun senyum je. Dengkur pulak tu hahahaha"
"Takkkk"
"Pukul 10 berendam dalam ais"
"Thanks, baby"
"Mandi. Masam la hahahahaha"
"Abanggg eeeee!"
"Kejar, kejar hahaha"
"Abanggg!"
"Hahahaha"
"Tak nak kawan"
"Hahaha mandi"


Ibn Kathir said, “It was the character of the Prophet to live in a beautiful manner with his wives, being cheerful and kind to them, generously spending on them, and laughing with them.”

Source: Tafsir Ibn Kathir 4:19

Tuesday, November 07, 2023

Track field

When we were running on the track field, my wife ran with a lot of energy and determination to win the race. Suddenly, some people started cheering for her out of nowhere, and we became the center of attention. When she won the race, people came over to congratulate her. Running is her passion, and I love seeing her on the track field with a big smile.

200 meter

We had a really good time running on the track field. My wife and I did a 200-meter sprint, and she won the race. She was so happy and enjoys running a lot. In the past, she has won gold medals in different races.

"Aisha reported: She was with the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, while on a journey. Aisha said, “I raced him on foot and I outran him, but when I gained some weight, I raced him again and he outran me. The Prophet said: This is for that race.”

Source: Sunan Abi Dawud 2578

Ducklings

I took my little kids to the pond and we watched the ducklings swim. Yesterday, they were very excited to see the colorful flowers in my garden. They even tried to catch a butterfly. Today, we are learning about ducklings. I hope they develop a love for ducks as well.

Kupu-kupu

"Ra, jom pergi track"
"Bila?"
"Lepas Asar"
"Okey!"
"Laju okey"
"Hihi mesti la"
"100 ke 200?"
"200"
"Set!"
"Boleh kalahkan kita ke?"
"Panas badan je. Malam nanti nak kejar kupu-kupu pulak hahahahaha"
*pap pap pap*

Masak lemak telur itik

"Nak tolong apa?"
"Semua dah siap"
"Okey, abang tolong lap peluh hehe"
"Haip!"
"Masak lemak telur itik, pucuk ubi rebus, sambal belacan, itik salai, cendawan goreng. Sedapnyaaa"
"Singo beng buleh ko?"
"Limau panas tak nak gula, nak Ara hahahaha"
"Gelenya sungguh la"

What will save us?

Uqbah ibn ‘Amir reported: I said, “O Messenger of Allah, what will save us?” The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said, “Restrain your tongue, let your house be enough for you, and weep for your sins.”

Source: Sunan al-Tirmidhī 2406

Yisrael

In 2012, Anwar told The Wall Street Journal that “I support all efforts to protect the security of the State of Israel.”

Nasi goreng

"Abang, abang"
"Ha"
"Kita lapar"
"Tadi dah makan"
"Lapar"
"Nak makan?"
"Ha'a. Nak abang buat nasi goreng"
"Sekarang?"
"Ha'a"
"Dah tengah malam"
"Lapar…"
"Hmm…jom turun"
"Abang, nak pedas tau. Tak nak sayur, nak udang dengan sotong je. Telur mata. Cili potong"
"Amboi"
"Hihi teringin"

Berat mata memandang

"Ara suruh dia search house call doctor. Senang sikit. Doktor datang rumah. Tak payah pergi hospital"
"Kenapa abang tak cakap awal?"
"Abang pun baru tahu"
"Dia mengadu duit dah banyak habis. Bank call pasal rumah"
"Kan Ocio dah habis bayar"
"Rumah lain kot. Baby dia masuk wad"
"Sakit apa?"
"Tak pasti. Dia datang tengok baby, lepas tu balik"
"Ye la. Ocio tak ada siapa jaga. Anak dia seorang lagi sihat?"
"Sihat. Dia jaga Ocio bila mak dia keluar"
"Ara tanya dia apa yang kita boleh tolong"

Jambang

"Memang saja tak trim lagi 2 hari nak balik"
"Bila nak trim?"
"Tanya kita. Dia yang selalu buat"
"Tak payah la hihi"
"Rindu abang jambang lebat ke hahaha"
"Ha'a"
"Rindu jambang ke rindu abang?"
"Rindu semua hihi"
"Semua yang mana tu?"
"Semua la"
"Jambang macam ni tak cukup hmm?"
"Abang mmm"
"Hmmm"
"Mmm"
"Hmmm"
"Mmm"
"Nak pergi mana?"
"Panas nasi"
"Nasi boleh tunggu"
"Abang tak nak lepas kita ke?"
"Tak nak"
"Tapi kita belum…"
"Shh…"

In silence, we look into each other's eyes.…

Goodbye my friend

I had the opportunity to meet the dog I rescued a few weeks ago, and I'm thrilled to see that he has made a complete recovery and appears to be in good health. He can now walk, jump, and run without any issues.  

The vet informed me that a couple wishes to adopt the dog and gift it to their blind son. However, the dog is unwilling to go with them unless it has the opportunity to meet the person who saved it and bid farewell.

So, I have decided to visit him and say goodbye. I'm truly grateful that I found you, buddy, and I sincerely hope that you will be happy with your new family. This is a new beginning for you, a journey filled with endless love and joy

Monday, November 06, 2023

Little kids

I take the little kids to my garden, and they get really happy when they see all the pretty flowers. They walk around with big smiles on their faces, enjoying everything they see.

It makes me really happy as their dad to see them having such a good time and smiling so much. Their happiness means the world to me, and I love being able to make them smile and have fun.

Sabun

"Ara mesti salah letak sabun. Bau lain. Kena letak sabun biru bukan putih. Pink pun tak boleh"
"Sama je bang. Semua sabun"
"Mana sama. Kegunaan lain-lain. Yang biru untuk fabrik lembut, putih fabrik kasar, pink cucian untuk stokin, tuala, pakaian dalam"
"Nak naik hantu dah ke hihi?"
"Salah letak sabun. Tak boleh betul la"
"Anxiety dah dia hihi"
"Nanti pakai tak best"
"It doesn't matter. It's just soup, just a different kind"
"It always matters to me. Always"
"Hihihi lucu"

Strip club

At 3:15 am, I got a call from Ary, who was at a strip club, getting wasted. I couldn't help but wonder how he ended up like this. He never had money problems, relationships were never an issue, and his job paid more than enough. He's got a kid, a gorgeous wife, and awesome in-laws. So, what's the glitch in his life that's causing him to go down this path?

Hiburan

"Tak dengar la. Mana tu?"
"Club"
"Dah tua pergi club apa lagi"
"Strip club"
"Cari apa?"
"Hiburan"
"Bini dah muda pun nak makan luar. Tak cukup-cukup"
"Relax ar"
"Minum apa? Tequila?"
"Nope"
"Ye la tu"
"Vodka"
"Hmm"
"Satu gelas"
"10 botol pun tak ada siapa kisah"
"Cool, man"
"Dulu tengok blue, sekarang masuk strip club. Dulu tak minum, sekarang dah pandai mabuk. Entah kawin, entah tak"
"Khutbah"
"Cuba selawat"
"Yang mana ek. Lupa plak"
"Chalo dulu"
"Relax arr"
"Jibril cakap, "Do as you will and know that one day you will be compensated and rewarded accordingly in the hereafter". Beramal selagi sempat"
"Siapa Jibril? Member kau ke?"
"Nama malaikat. Cuba mengucap"
"Lupa doh"
"Takkan lupa"
"I totally blank on all that stuff"

Novel cinta

Daddy: Bulan depan cuti sekolah. Kita nak pergi mana?
Kakak: Parissssss
Umar: Sudan
Adam: Adam nak pergi Kota Al Ula
Daddy: Siapkan program, tunjuk dekat daddy, lepas tu kita pergi
Umar: …
Kakak: …
Adam: …
Daddy: Macam mana nak jadi orang dewasa kalau tak nak pegang tanggungjawab?
Umar: …
Kakak: …
Adam: …
Daddy: Daddy bukan selamanya ada. Kena belajar berdikari. Buat salah dalam hidup perkara biasa. Yang penting kita belajar
Adam: I'll give it a try
Daddy: Good!
Umar: Tapi kita tak boleh pergi kota yang Rasullulah laknat
Kakak: Why so?
Daddy: Daddy dah check fatwa. Boleh pergi. Hukumnya makruh. Kita pergi ambil iktibar bukan pergi melancong seronok-seronok
Kakak: Let's go!
Umar: Kota Al Ula dekat mana, Kakak?
Kakak: Egypt, kan?
Umar: Hahaha
Kakak: Libya?
Umar: Nope
Kakak: Yemen?
Umar: Nope
Adam: Madinah al-Mukarramah
Kakak: Serius Madinah ada kota terlaknat
Umar: Don't read romance novels
Kakak: Romance novels are not bad, okay
Daddy: Bukan semua novel cinta teruk. Banyak yang bagus. Kena pandai pilih
Adam: Adam baca PS I Love You
Daddy: Daddy beli tapi tak baca. Satu chapter dah ngantuk
Adam: It's a sad love story
Daddy: Bila Umar nak baca?
Umar: No, thanks
Daddy: Jangan benci sangat. Kita selalu jatuh cinta dengan perkara yang kita tak suka

Gedik

Daddy: What is Costa Rica famous for?
Adam: It is famous for its 1,300 species of orchids
Umar: Colorful frogs
Kakak: And, of course, the weather
Umar: Urhh gedik!

Sunday, November 05, 2023

Sunday

It seems like you didn't want to leave my mind, did you? How was your day? I had a wonderful day today. I took my wife on a motorcycle ride to Playa Jaco, a famous beach near San Jose. November is the rainy season, so it's not a good idea to bring the kids for swimming. We simply walked along the beach, felt the sun, sat to enjoy the view of the sea, and listened to the sound of the waves.

Jacó, Puntarenas, Costa Rica
5-11-2023, 10:01 am

Ride

"*Isteri cerdik yang solehah
Penyejuk mata penawar hati penyejuk fikiran
Di rumah ia isteri di jalanan kawan
Di waktu kita buntu
Dia penunjuk jalan"
"Nok gapo?"
"Jom keluar jalan-jalan"
"Nok g mano?"
"Ride nak?"
"Jauh dok?"
"Jom la. Banyak tanya"
"Ho la. Anok sapo nok jago?"
"Bawa je la. Dia orang naik kereta. Kita berdua naik motor. *Santai-santailah, sayangku
Ikut aku, usah ragu
Kuda tua mungkin tak laju
Masih steady, masih padu hahaha"
"Galok la"
"Siap cepat. Abang nak panas enjin"
"Ari nok uje, bea"
"Hujan pun kita redah. Kata bikers kental hahaha"
"Sapo suruh eh"
"Hahahaha teruk je la"


*The Zikr, Isteri Solehah
*Faizal Tahir, Santai

Corporal punishment

Daddy: What don't you like about me?
Adam: You are strict
Kakak: Daddy tak sporting
Umar: Corporal punishment

What do you like about me?

Daddy: What do you like about me?
Kakak: You are a loving father
Adam: You pay attention when I speak
Umar: You buy me books

Serangga

Daddy: Jenis serangga
Adam: Nyamuk!
Umar: Err lalat kot
Kakak: Semut ke?
Daddy: Laa serangga pun tak ingat dah

Zodiak

Kakak: Nama zodiak
Adam: Leo
Umar: Scorpion
Daddy: Sagittarius
Kakak: Yakinnya kamu hahahahaha
Adam: Scorpio la Babang
Umar: Bila dia bertukar?

Saturday, November 04, 2023

Negara mula huruf K

Daddy: Nama negara mula huruf K
Umar: Kenya!
Adam: Kyrgyzstan
Kakak: Kuala Lumpur!
Umar: Confident!
Adam: KL is a city in Malaysia
Kakak: Hahahahaha malunya

Main air

"Penat main air, semua tidur awal"
"Pandai abang eh"
"Mana tahu kot Ibu dia nak main air sama hahahahaha"
*pap pap pap*

Pening kepala

"Situ tapak perkuburan lama. Kalau bukan pasal benda tu, abang pun tak tahu. Tak ada siapa buka cerita"
"Habis macam mana tu?"
"Siapkan cepat, lepas tu chalo. Developer pun tak tahu pasal ni"
"Eh bukan projek abang ke?"
"Tak la"
"Ye ke?"
"Amboi. Semua projek abang jadi developer eh"
"Hihi"
"Abang lagi suka bina dari jadi developer. Tak pening kepala"
"Ha'a kan"
"Bini dekat rumah dah cukup buat abang pening kepala hahahaha"
*pap pap pap*

Late-night shift

You just crossed my mind. If you work the late-night shift, please drive safely when driving back home. Make sure to get enough rest. Housework can wait.

I hope you are as happy with your kids as I am with mine.

Feelings of loss and longing

I have survived cancer, and I know I will survive this pain too. I have had to struggle to survive since I was born. I had no parents to raise me, love me, and cherish me, yet I have survived. The people around me have left me; Am, Kak Iman, Karl, and Ummi. I haven't received any news from Boboy for the past five years. I hope he is still alive.

When you left, I thought my world had ended, but I survived. I faced many difficulties and challenges; my business went down, and my health was at its lowest point. I thought it was the end for me, but once again, I rose up. You came and said sorry, but nothing can change. I don't need your apology. The damage has already been done.

Thank you for reaching out to me, and now I know that you miss me. That's all I wanted to know, even if it doesn't matter anymore. You can't heal me. I have a lot of battles going on in my head. I guess I have become accustomed to grief and suffering. Losing you is a big loss, but the true loss is when you lose my love for you.


On board
Nov 1, 2023

Children

Today, they learned how to arrange colors and patterns, and later on, I took them to the swimming pool. I miss all of you deeply, my beloved children.

Glowing

Huda: Daddy, muka Kakak glowing tak?
Umar: Glowing sendu hohohohoho
Huda: You suck!
Daddy: Umar ni. Dengan daddy nak tergelak sama hehe
Huda: Daddyyy!!!

Maghrib yang indah

Selesai solat Maghrib, baca Ratib Al-Haddad, dan Selawat Jibril bersama anak-anak. Kembar pun turut serta. Kemudian sampaikan nasihat daripada Malaikat Jibril kepada Nabi Muhammad.

Tempat berteduh

"Kau okey?"
"Nope"
"Pasal?"
*sigh*
"Dia kawin dah?"
"Yup"
"Datang sini. Aku cuti. Nak travel aku tak larat"
"No dice"
"Jumpa psikiatri ambil ubat"
"……"
"Apa-apa roger. Jangan senyap. Semua orang risau"
"Alright"
"Kak Ain dah cerai dengan Takeshi kan?"
"Bila?"
"Seminggu dah. Pergi Jepun hari tu tak contact dia. Ocio pun dah lama tak jumpa"
"God don't love me"
"Dari kecik kita duduk rumah anak yatim, at least kita tak jadi homeless. Cukup makan, ada baju, ada rumah, pergi sekolah, masuk universiti. Nasib kita lagi baik dari orang lain"
"……"
"Jaga diri, Pet. Mental kena kuat dari emosi"
"Alright bro"
"Balik la Bukit Antarabangsa, tengok rumah, ziarah kubur Ummi. Ummi mesti dah rindu. Kau lama tak ziarah dia. Buat tahlil ke apa. Sedih dia kalau kau nak bunuh diri. Dulu dia dah selamatkan kita. Berkorban apa yang ada. Kalau semua orang tak sayang kita, ingat Ummi sayang kita. Ingat tu je"
"Okay"

Friday, November 03, 2023

Stab in the back

It's not the stab in the back that hurts you; it's when you turn around and see who is holding the knife.

(Unknown)