Tree Planting Day!

EnoMalaysian and The Eno Tree Planting Day!






ENO Tree Planting Day is an open event for schools and groups interested in environment and peace. It is arranged twice in a year, in May and in September. Tree planting is one of the most popular activities in the ENO Programme. Environment Online - ENO is a global virtual school and network for sustainable development. It has been running since 2000 and reached thousands of schools in 150 countries. So far we have planted about 4 million trees and we aim to plant 100 million trees by the end of 2017. Join us!



EnoMalaysian Team joining with EnoSlovenia Team together for Eno Tree Planting Day in Slovenia.

ENO Tree Planting Song was 6th in Schoolovision!
posted May 25, 2010 4:06 AM by Mika Vanhanen

ENO Tree Planting Song "Hi and Ho - We Plant Trees" was voted as 6th by school children in 34 countries. The song represented Finland in this song contest of European schools. It was performed by 5-6th graders at Eno Primary School, Finland. Iceland was the winner. Scotland was third and arranged this fabulous event. And this Scottish school also joined our tree planting day 21 May!



See overall results here: http://schoolovision2010.blogspot.com/




Peace Is Green

ENO Programme will organise its traditional tree planting day on Tuesday 21st of September 2010. This planting of trees symbolises peace and the continuity of life.



This global tree planting day of children and youth will take place on the 21st of September The same day has been proclaimed the International day for peace by United Nations. ENO Tree Planting Day has taken place since 2004 and proven to be successful. Last time this event inspired children at 5000 schools in over 100 countries to take the challenge. Altogether 450 000 trees were put into the ground to celebrate the day.



This event is a practical way of enhancing environmental and global education. It connects children all over the world to focus on environmental issues. What is more, the event fosters peace education and increases the awareness of school children of the importance of trees and forests on a global scale.



The planting of trees will take place everywhere at noon local time. The first to start is Tonga in Oceania and as the Sun and Earth continue to turn, Asia, Africa and Europe will join in as well. Some time later the continents of North and South America will grab the hoe, and last area to participate will be Samoa Islands. The world has taken a remarkable step towards a more ecological and peaceful way of life.



Tree planting will not remain a single event, but the trees will be cared for and their growth and development will be watched in the future as well. The planting will be documented and the experiences shared. It is also a ceremonial event including a speech and a dedicated song. An optional play for the occasion has been translated in 40 languages.



This day is also a very special for the ENO Programme. This event is to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the ENO Programme. It started with 50 schools in a rural Finnish village called Eno and in 10 years has spread to thousands of schools in 150 countries. Millions of children and youth have been involved with their teacher and local communities.



Our goal is to get 10 000 schools and youth groups involved. They are warmly invited to join this event and asked to register on the event website, by 14th of September 2010. Detailed instructions, more information and material can be found here! Welcome!


LIVE webcasts!



ENO Programme will celebrate its 10th anniversary at Koli, Finland. Events was streamed online 21st of September at 08:00 - 9:00 AM UTC and 24th of September 4-5.:30 PM UTC.! You will be able to see them here. They can also be seen later on this website. Events are organised by th ENO Programme Association.

These events have been supported by Regional Council of North Karelia, Karjalaisen kulttuurin edistämissäätiö, JOSEK and PIKES.


ENO 10th anniversary consists of three events in Finland:



ENO 10th Anniversary Celebration, Koli, FINLAND
21st of September 2010

Ambassadors from 8 countries were present. Greetings from the president of the republic of Finland, Tarja Halonen.

Material for the event:

Mika Vanhanen:
https://sites.google.com/a/enoprogramme.org/enotreeday/files/ENO_2000_2010_presentation.ppt?attredirects=0

ReijoHeinonen:
https://sites.google.com/a/enoprogramme.org/enotreeday/files/Reijo_Heinonen_speech_21_SEP_2010.pdf?attredirects=0

Tarja Halonen:
https://sites.google.com/a/enoprogramme.org/enotreeday/files/TERVEHDYS.pdf?attredirects=0




ENO Peace Park, Koli 9:15 -10:00 AM UTC



Ambassadors and school students planted the very first trees in this park. These ENO Peace Trees are named after their countries. ENO Peace Park is located in the North Karelia biosphere reserve, also in the area of the forthcoming Koli Cultura centre. Koli Cultura is an ecological tourism and cultural centre which is based on values of sustainable development.


https://sites.google.com/a/enoprogramme.org/enotreeday/files/anniversary_programme2.jpg?attredirects=0

Material:
https://sites.google.com/a/enoprogramme.org/enotreeday/files/Simola.pdf?attredirects=0

https://sites.google.com/a/enoprogramme.org/enotreeday/files/speech.pdf?attredirects=0




Juurilla/ At The Roots - a concert

Nature Centre Ukko, Koli
24th of September 4:00 - 5.30 PM UTC
(19:00 local time)

A concert At The Roots is to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the ENO Programme. It will take place at Koli, Finnish National lansdcape. As its name the musicians also have roots to North Karelia, they either were born here or live here. Sibelius Duo Jussi Makkonen (cello) and Rait Karm (piano) will perform Sibelius pieces as he was inspired by the views of Koli. Cellist Jussi Makkonen was born in Lieksa, North Karelia.

An opera singer (bass-baritone) Hannu Forsberg will interpret some Finnish folk songs. He comes from Finnish National Opera. Hannu was born in Polvijärvi, North Karelia. Mika Vanhanen plays piano.

Serve The World Save The Earth!

Heal the World - Micheal Jackson

Eno malaysia Team with Panasonic Japan, GEC and FEE

Eno malaysia Team up
with Panasonic Japan, GEC and FEE
( Foundation Environmental for Education)
in Kuala Gula Perak Malaysia.




safety first!
Mr.Roslee, Mr Basri and the students.




Bakau tree planting in Kuala Gula Perak.




Panasonic strives to be a Green Innovation Company with a global perspective by promoting environmental activities defined by 'eco ideas' Declaration.







Eno malaysia team with Panasonic team
- shooting in Kuala Gula for a Japan tv documentary





GEC is a non-profit NGO, established in 1998 to address key environmental issues. GEC is based in Malaysia and supports activities worldwide. We are focused on bringing together all parties—individuals, communities, corporations and other like-minded organizations—to help foster lasting change for environmental benefits.



The mission of the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) is to expand environmental and energy literacy. This effort involves educational programming, energy projects, and related public outreach activities throughout the United States and abroad. All of our programming, projects, and activities include participation from environmental groups, businesses and industries, and government agencies. We bring together people with diverse views and interests and help them to work toward a common goal.




Mr.Balu and Mr.Kalai in Kuala Gula Perak

Cockles and Curlews: Birdwatching at Kuala Gula
The waders and waterbirds of Perak's Kuala Gula Bird Sanctuary are well known to those in Malaysia's birding network. Mr balu gives us the low-down on what you can expect to find at this important wetlands area - which includes more than just birds!



The Kuala Gula Bird Sanctuary is located in the district of Kerian in the state of Perak Darul Ridzuan. The sanctuary has been established since 1970 by the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (PERHILITAN) and the state government of Perak. The main objective of creating the sanctuary is to protect migratory and resident bird species, which have been using the wetland area for many years. The migratory birds utilise the large mudflat area for feeding and resting during their migratory route from the northern to the southern hemisphere. Tens of thousands of migratory birds comprising 48 species of 8 families visit Kuala Gula from September until April each year. Some of these migratory birds come from as far as Siberia in Russia, Mongolia, Kazakhstan, Japan and China. The Kuala Gula mangrove swamp forest and mudflat are not only important for migratory birds but also for 600 families of fishermen who depend totally on the mangrove forests and marine ecosystem for their livelihood. Many fishermen involved in fishing, cockle farming, aquaculture, shrimp and crabs derive their income from this wetland area. Currently, eco-tourism activities are getting popular in Kuala Gula. Approximately 5,000 visitors came to Kuala Gula last year. The fishermen living in the vicinity of Kuala Gula for the last hundred years have survived within the natural ecosystem of this mangrove swamp forest. The dependence of man on this natural ecosystem will continue for generations to come.

INTRODUCTION

The Kuala Gula Bird Sanctuary is among the well-established bird sanctuaries in the Asian region. The establishment of the bird sanctuary started in the early 70s. The main objective is to protect and conserve the migratory as well as resident bird species. There are about 161 species of birds found in the Kuala Gula Bird Sanctuary comprising 48 species of migratory birds and 118 species of resident or local birds (Appendix 1). The mangrove swamp forest and a long stretched of mudflat beaches provide an excellent feeding ground and nesting habitat for migratory and resident bird species.

The migratory birds such as Eurasian curlew (Numenius arquata), Common redshank (Tringa totanus), Common greenshank (Tringa nebularia), Mongolian plovers (Charadrius mongolus), Pacific goldenplover (Pluvialis fulva), Common sandpiper (Actitis hypoleucos), Cattle egret (Bubulcus ibis), Little egret (Egretta garzetta), Gret egret (Casmerodius albus), Black-headed gull (Larus ridibundus), Black-naped tern (Sterna sumatrana) come from as far as Siberia, Japan and China during the migratory season starting from September until April each year. These birds come in large flocks numbering from several hundred to several thousand individuals. The large mudflat area offers a natural feeding ground for these birds. The mudflat or benthos ecosystem is rich with minute organisms and plankton such as small crabs, crustaceans, annelids and copepods. These minute organisms are rich in protein. They provide the nutrients to generate vast amounts of energy the birds require to continue their journey to the south.

THE MANGROVE SWAMP FOREST AND MUDFLATS





The Larut-Matang-Selama District has the largest mangrove swamp forest in Peninsular Malaysia. This forest is also named the Matang Mangrove swamp forest. In the northwestern part of Perak, in the district of Kerian, there is also a large tract of mangrove swamp forests. This mangrove swamp forest stretches from the Perak/Kedah boundary and Sungai Kerian in the north to the Sungai Sepetang boundary in the south. The mangrove swamp forests are very important for sustaining the coastal ecosystem because of their roles in protecting environmental, preventing soil erosion, providing bird sanctuaries and a breeding ground for marine aquatic fauna and timber production. This area covers about 40,500 hectares or 100,000 acres of the best-managed mangrove swamp forests in the world. The area is under the jurisdiction of the Perak Forest Department. Several species of mangrove trees such as Aricenia sp., Rhizophora sp., are naturally grown along the coastal area. These trees are very useful for the charcoal and pole making industry.

MIGRATORY AND RESIDENT BIRD SPECIES



There are about 48 species of migratory birds that come in large numbers to Kuala Gula each year. The cold weather and snow-covered soils of the northern hemisphere force them to migrate to the south searching for food, shelter and warm temperatures. The long coastal mudflat stretching from Perlis to Tanjung Pie in Johor is prefect for these birds to feed and rest. The coastal plain of the West Coast of Peninsular Malaysia is well protected from strong winds and wave erosion compared to the east coastal area. The accumulated mudflat at Kuala Gula originates mostly from the rivers, canals and rice fields of the inland areas. It is rich with micro-organisms such as annelids, copepods, crustacean and small shellfish which are prime food for the migratory birds. During the low tide, these minute organisms are exposed to the surface and become easy prey to the birds. In order to adapt to these food types, some migratory birds have developed specific beak shapes to reach food from inside the shells or from the mud.

Seventy-one percent of birds found in Kuala Gula are resident birds. These resident birds consist of 118 species of 34 families including the rare Milky stork (Mycteria cinerea) and Lesser adjutant stork (Leptoptilos javanicus). The resident bird species build their nests within the mangrove forests and between the ecotone area of oil palm plantations and forest fringes. Birds of prey such as Brahminy kite (Haliastur indus) and Crested-serpent eagle (Spilornis cheela) commonly nest on the mangrove trees. Resident forest birds such as White-throated kingfisher (Halcyon smyrnensis), Little green heron (Butorides striatus)), Yellow-vented bulbul (Pycnonotus goiavier), Little green pigeon (Treron olax), Pink-necked pigeon (Treron vernans), Lesser adjutant stork (Leptoptilos javanicus), Black-crowned night heron (Nyticorax nyticorax), Grey heron (Ardea cinerea), are commonly seen at the mudflat of Kuala Gula. These resident bird species not only use the mudflat for feeding but also the mangrove forest canopy which produces flowers, seeds and hovering insects as food. The common goldenback woodpecker (Dinopium canicapillus javanense), Scarlet-backed flowerpecker (Dicaeum cruentatum) and Black-naped oriole (Oriolus chinensis) are more dependent on small insects, larvae and nectar produced by the mangrove forest ecosystem.

FISHING ACTIVITIES






The Kuala Gula fishing village has been established since the late 19th century. The Malay and the Chinese fishermen built their settlements at Kuala Gula because this area is rich with fishes and crustaceans. Historically, Pulau Kalumpang was inhabited by an early Malay settlement about 1,000 years ago. Their remains and graveyards are found in Pulau Kalumpang, about a 20-minute boat ride from Kuala Gula. This historical site is well preserved by the Taiping Museum authority and the Kuala Gula forest rangers.

Besides the fishing industry, Kuala Gula is also an important site for cockle farming. Large amounts of cockles are produced by the Kuala Gula fishermen each year. These cockles are marketed to several large towns such as Taiping, Ipoh, Penang and Kuala Lumpur. Other than cockle farming, the local fishermen also operate aquaculture farms. They rear sea pearchs, groupers, and crabs in aquaculture cages. Most of the coastal fishermen are Malays. They use small sampans, gill nets, and crab traps to get their catch. There are about 60 families or 350 people residing at Kuala Gula.

Sungai Gula and Sungai Kurau flow from Gunung Semanggol, Bukit Merah and the enriched rice field of the Selinsing area. This area provides much of the mud, which later accumulates at the mouth of Sungai Gula and the coastal area. Fishes and crabs aquacultures are the most important activities of the fishermen in the area. Sea pearchs, groupers and crabs are the main species kept in cages. At least 20 cages are used by fishermen for aquaculture farming. Fish fry for the aquaculture cages are supplied by the local Malay fishermen.

To catch the small fry of sea pearchs and groupers, the Malay fishermen use a special built bubu or fish trap. Soft-shell edible crabs are also kept in the cages. A short survey has been made on the households, average incomes and harvests of the fishermen of Kuala Gula. A random sample of questionnaires was used for sampling. There are about 540 Chinese families in Kuala Gula. The average income for the Kuala Gula Chinese fishermen is about RM945.00 per month. The average Malay fisherman's income is about RM576.00 per month. The Chinese fishermen are well organised and use more advanced and much larger boats than their Malay counterparts.

ECO-TOURISM ACTIVITIES



Since 1970, the eco-tourism activities at Kuala Gula have been restricted to a very specific activity, that is, bird observation. This main activity is handled by the Wildlife and National Park Department or Perhilitan staff stationed at the Kuala Gula office. Only special interest parties such as school children, university students, scientists, researchers and governmental officials visit the Kuala Gula Bird Sanctuary. Their number is less than one thousand per year. Their main activity is to observe the migratory bird species and mudflat ecosystem. The Department of Wildlife and National Parks or Perhilitan has been stationed at its complex at Kuala Gula since 1983. The Interpretive Centre was completed in 1994. By the end of the year 2000, the District Office of Kerian had completed building the tourism complex along Sungai Gula with restaurants, chalets, car parks, meeting rooms, hostels and a jetty at the cost of about RM2 million. The funding came from the Ministry of Culture, Art and Tourism (MOCAT). Since then, the number of visitors has increased. By June 2001, approximately 4,000 visitors had visited the Kuala Gula Bird Sanctuary. An estimate of between 10,000 to 12,000 visitors will visit Kuala Gula each year in the future.

CONCLUSIONS

The Kuala Gula Bird Sanctuary has already been established for the last 30 years. It has become a stopover and feeding ground for hundreds of thousands of migratory birds which come from Siberia, Russia, Mongolia, Khazakhstan, China and Japan. The bird species spend much of their time feeding and resting at the coastal mangrove forest of Kuala Gula and the surrounding areas. The fishermen who have been living at Kuala Gula have utilised the area for decades. They depend totally on the mangrove and estuarine ecosystem for their livelihood. They have practised sustainable management and sustainable harvesting of coastal and mangrove marine resources for decades. Both men and birds depend on the mudflat and mangrove ecosystem so that they can survive for long periods of time. The Kuala Gula community is a good example of sustainable development and management by the fishermen of Kuala Gula and the people of the vicinity on their mangrove ecosystem as the area is still natural.

Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri!!!

Selamat Hari Raya Adilfitri…
A auspicious day of Muslim. World wide known as Eid Ul Fitr or Adilfitri



Yes, it’s that time again. Taking this opportunity to wish all Malaysians, Citizen Blog members, moderators and all readers. We take this opportunity to seek forgiveness should We in the course of blogging hurt your feelings. Not to say We would not do it again in the interest of venting my opinion of any circumstances.
We truly hope, we take all criticisms positively to make our country a better place to live. That everyday when we wake up in the morning, we only have to thank our Government to have sustained peace, good health and prosperity not only to the select few but to everyone.

May god forgive our sins and keep us away from greed and that we work only for the betterment of each other.We pray that our country will be free from debts, poverty, hardships, crimes and that We look forward to only compliment our leader’s everyday.

We pray to god to forgive our leaders whom have wondered off in the wrong path and that our Enlightened Beings are enlightened before it’s too late.

We pray that all those children and innocent people whom have perished before us are placed in heaven, next to god. That they are having a ball of time with the... Serve The World Save The Earth!



Hari Raya in South-East Asia Countries

Eid al-Fitr, often abbreviated to Eid, is a Muslim holiday that marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. Around the world, there are many names to refer to this day, which is one of the most important festival for Muslims.

In Malay-speaking countries of Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, and Brunei Eid is often called (affectionately) as Hari Raya, which literally means “Big Day” or “Celebration Day”.



When is the Hari Raya in 2010 ?

In 2010, Hari Raya AidilFitri / Idul Fitri / Lebaran is likely to fall on Friday, 10 September 2010. Please note Muslim festivals are timed according to local sightings of various phases of the moon and thus this Hari Raya date given is approximation.



Hari Raya in Indonesia

In Indonesia, which has the largest Muslim population in the world, Eid is known as Hari Raya Idul Fitri (or more informally as Lebaran). It is a national holiday, often last for as long as two weeks, with the exact date determined by local lunar observation. Idul Fitri is usually a public holiday for 2 days, another 2-3 days of company given holidays, and about 5 days of forced-leave.

Aside from the day-off, in Indonesia Idul Fitri has a legally mandated salary bonus for all employees, known as Tunjangan Hari Raya as enforced by Indonesia’s Department of Labour, Employment and Society. The mandated amount of this salary bonus differs by provinces.

For example, within Jakarta region the THR bonus must be at least Rp 1 million but not less than one month’s full salary paid in advance of Idul Fitri, in addition to the employee’s regular salary. Breaching or withholding THR is a very serious labour law infraction and can be punished severely, regardless of employer status or position.

Idul Fitri is the biggest holiday in Indonesia. Business for clothes and festive necessities are having their best month during the Ramadan with shopping malls and bazaars are filled with people days ahead of Idul Fiti, causing a distinctive festive atmosphere throughout the country and traffic mayhem. Many banks, government and private offices are closed for the duration of the Idul festivities, known collectively as the Lebaran.

During the Idul Fitri, the wealthier of the non-Muslims often “escape” to local hotels, or commonly Singapore and Australia, either to avoid not having domestic servants and drivers or simply because that is the only time in the year they could have a holiday/break.

One of the largest temporary human migrations globally, is the prevailing custom of the Lebaran where workers, particularly unskilled migrants labourers such as maids and construction labourers return to one’s home town or city and ask forgiveness from ones’ parents, in-laws and elders. This is known as mudik or pulang kampung in Indonesia or in Malaysian balik kampung.

The night before Idul Fitri is filled with the sounds of many muezzin singing the takbir held in the mosques or mushollahs. In many parts of Indonesia as well as Malaysia, especially in rural areas, pelita or panjut or lampu colok (as known by Malay-Singaporeans) (oil lamps, similar to tiki torches) are lit up and placed outside and around the house. Special dishes like ketupat, dodol, lemang (a type of glutinous rice cake cooked in bamboo) and other Indo-Malay (and in the case of Malaysia, also Nyonya) delicacies are served during this day.

It is common to greet people with “Selamat Idul Fitri” or “Salam Aidilfitri” (in Malaysia) which means “Happy Eid”. Muslims also greet one another with “mohon maaf lahir dan batin” in Indonesia and “maaf zahir dan batin” in Malaysia, which means “Forgive my physical and emotional (wrongdoings)”, because Idul Fitri is not only for celebrations but a time for atonement: to ask for forgiveness for sins which they may have committed but was cleansed as a result of the fasting in the Muslim month of Ramadan.

Singaporean, Malaysia and Indonesian hotels have been particularly successful marketing lucrative Lebaran or Idul Fitri “escape package”.



Hari Raya in Malaysia

In Malaysia, Eid is more commonly known as Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Hari Raya Idul Fitri or Hari Raya Puasa. Puasa means “Fasting”, basically refer to the fasting month (Ramadhan) preceding the Idul Fitri.

Fasting during the month of Ramadhan is compulsory or wajib, whereby Muslims are required to abstain from satisfying their most basic needs and urges, daily, between sunrise and sunset. It is one of the five tenets of Islam; as is the paying of zakat (alms tax for the poor), which must be tithed by the end of Ramadhan.

In Malaysia, the period of fasting ends when the new moon is sighted on the evening of the last day of Ramadhan. The actual sighting is conducted by state appointed religious officials at various vantage points (usually at hilltops) throughout the country.

If the crescent is sighted, the following day is then declared the first day of Aidilfitri, which is also the beginning of the 10th month of the Muslim calendar Syawal.

The Muslim community ushers in the first day of Aidilfitri by congregating at mosques for morning prayers. Everyone is usually decked out in their traditional best to mark the special occasion. Men are usually dressed in Baju Melayu, while the Baju Kurung, the quintessential Malay attire for females, is the prefered choice for the fairer sex.

Then it’s usually breakfast at home with the family, followed by a visit to the cemetery where deceased loved ones are remembered; graves are cleaned and cleared of overgrowth, and prayers are offered to Allah.

This is also a time to forgive and forget past quarrels. Asking for pardon is done in order of seniority. The younger members of a family approach their elders (parents, grandparents etc) to seek forgiveness, to salam (Muslim equivalent of a handshake), then kiss the hands of the older person as a sign of respect.

The usual greeting (that is uttered with the salam) during Aidilfitri is “Selamat Hari Raya”, which means “Wishing you a joyous Hari Raya”.

Children and old folks are given duit raya or gifts of money, in small envelopes. In recent years, many givers have opted for the Chinese practice of putting the money in ang pow packets; however instead of the usual red, the packets are green in colour.

Although the first three days are celebrated on a grander scale, many Muslims hold “open house” throughout the month, where friends and neighbours of other races are invited to join in the celebrations.

Hari Raya in Singapore

In Singapore, the first day of the Hari Raya is celebrated as a public holiday, where civil servants and private sector workers alike are mostly not required to work.

The main greeting used by Muslims in Singapore is “Selamat Hari Raya” which means “Happy Eid” in Malay. Another greeting is “Maaf Zahir dan Batin” which translates loosely to “I seek forgiveness (from you) physically and spiritually”, for Hari Raya is a time to reconcile and renew relationships with others.

During the Muslim month of Ramadan leading up to Hari Raya, it is mandatory for Muslims to fast from dawn to dusk. All Muslims except the young, old or infirm must fast. Many Muslims also abstain from pleasures such as smoking cigarettes and sexual activities during the daylight of the fasting month.

Widely, markets, or ‘Ramadan bazaars’ are held in many areas around the country, where all sorts of food and kuih — traditional Malay delicacies — are sold for breaking fast or buka puasa. Hotels and restaurants have also exploited this situation to offer exorbitant Ramadan buffets.

The main attraction place to observe the Hari Raya and the preparations prior to festival is best observed at Kampong Glam and Geylang Serai, a bustling outdoor market and the Hari Raya Light-Up, as well as various Mosque around Singapore.

In 2010, Hari Raya coincides with Singapore F1 2010, thus likely to prompt very low or non vacancy during this holiday period, which without even being celebrated together has made hotels fully booked. So if you are planning to visit Singapore during Lebaran 2010, make sure to book your hotel far in advance.

Hari Raya in Brunei

Brunei is a Muslim country near Indonesia and Malaysia. As a Muslim country, Hari Raya is one of the most important holiday in Brunei.

The atmosphere can be felt since the holy month of Ramadhan. This marks the beginning of the period of fasting – abstinence from food, drink and other material comforts from dawn to dusk. During this month, many places in Brunei bustle with activities as people set up stalls to sell traditional cakes and pastries, fruits, notably around the National Stadium and in Gadong. This could be the best time to check out local dishes and cakes at minimal prices.

Hari Raya is a time for celebration after the end the fasting month of Ramadhan. In the early part of the first day, prayers are held at every mosque in the country. Family’s get together to seek forgiveness from the elders and other loved ones. From the second day onwards, you will see Bruneians decked-up in their traditional garb in dashing colors to visit relatives and friends.

Special festive dishes are made especially for Hari Raya including satay (beef, chicken or mutton kebabs), ketupat or lontong (rice cakes in coconut or banana leaves), rendang (spicy marinated beef) and other tantalising cuisines. His Majesty, the Sultan, opens the doors of the Istana Nurul Iman to his people on this auspicious occasion. This provides the nation and other visitors the opportunity to meet His Majesty and other members of the Royal family, in order to wish them a Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri.

The Ramadan Kareem...

WelCome RamadaN ...

Reaping the Benefits of Ramadan

In the month of Ramadan it is very important that we spent a few moments to understand some of the wisdoms and lessons that we can learn from this month of fasting. Unfortunately, many Muslims come in to this month and they are as a companion of the Prophet, peace be upon him, said: "Let it not be that the day that you fast and the day that you break fast be equal." Meaning, one's behaviour, attitude and outlook are the same whether one fasts or not, i.e. fasting has no effect upon that person. This is why we need to reflect on some of these lessons.

LESSON 1: Gaining Taqwa (piety)
God legislated fasting for gaining Taqwa, "O you who believe, fasting has been prescribed upon you as it has been prescribed upon those before you, so that you may attain Taqwa." (meaning of Soraatul Baqarah (2):183) Taqwa in this case means to make a shield between oneself and God's anger and Hellfire. So we should ask ourselves, when we break our fasts, 'Has this fasting day made us fear God more? Has it resulted that we want to protect ourselves from the hellfire or not?

LESSON 2: Drawing closer to God
This is achieved by reciting and reflecting on the Quran during night and day, attending the taraaweeh prayers, remembering God, sitting in circles of knowledge and, for those who can, making `umrah. Also for those who can, making I`tikaaf (seclusion) in the last ten nights of Ramadan, so as to leave all worldly pursuits and seclude oneself in a masjid just thinking of God, so as to bring oneself closer to God . When one sins, one feels distant from God. That is why one might find it heard to read the Quran and come to the masjid. However, the obedient worshipper feels closer to God and wants to worship God more, because he is not shy from his sins.

LESSON 3:Acquiring patience and strong will
God has mentioned patience more than seventy times in the Quran and has commanded patience in more than sixteen ways in His Book. So when one fasts, and gives up one's food and drink, and one's marital sexual relations for those hours, one learns restraint and patience. This Ummah needs man and women that are strong willed, who can stand upon the Sunnah and the Book of God and not waver in front of the enemies of God. We do not need emotional people, who just raise slogans and shout, but when the time comes to stand upon something firm, they cannot do so, they waver.

LESSON 4: Striving for Ihsaan (righteousness and sincerity) and staying away from riyaa' (showing off)
Ihsaan means to worship God as if one seeks Him, and even though one does not see Him, He sees all. Hasan al-Basree said, "By God, in the last twenty years, I have not said a word or taken something with my hand or refrained to take something with my hand or stepped forth or stepped back, except that I have thought before I have done any action, 'Does God love this action? Is God pleased with this action?' So when one is fasting, one should gain this quality of watching oneself and also staying away from riyaa' (showing off). That is why God said in a hadeeth qudsee, "Fasting is for Me and I reward it." (al-Bukhaaree) God singles out fasting from all other types of worship saying, "Fasting is for Me", because no one knows whether you are fasting or not, except God. For example, when one is praying or giving charity or making tawaaf, one can be seen by the people, so one might do the action seeking the praise of the people. Sufyaan ath-Thawree used to spend the nights and the days crying and the people used to ask him, "Why do you cry, is it due to the fear of God? He said, 'No.' They said, "Is it due to the fear of the Hellfire?" He said, 'No. It is not the fear of Hellfire that makes me cry, what makes me cry is that I have been worshipping God all these years and doing scholarly teaching, and I am not certain that my intentions are purely for God.'"

LESSON 5: Refinement of manners, especially those related to truthfulness and discharging trusts.
The Prophet (may God send His blessing and peace upon him) said, "Whoever does not abandon falsehood in word and action, then God has no need that he should leave his food and drink." (al-Bukhaaree) What we learn from this, is that we must pay attention to the purification of our manners. The Prophet (may God send His blessing and peace upon him) said, "was sent to perfect good manners." (Maalik) So we must check ourselves, are we following the behaviour of the Prophet (may God send His blessing and peace upon him)? For example: Do we give salaam to those we don't know and those we do know? Do we follow the manners of Islam, by telling the truth and only telling the truth? Are we sincere? Are we merciful to the creation?

LESSON 6: Recognizing that one can change for the better
The Prophet (may God send His blessing and peace upon him) said, "Every son of Adam sins and the best of the sinners are those who repent." (Ibn Maajah) God provides many opportunities to repent to Him and seek His forgiveness. If one was disobedient they can become obedient.

LESSON 7: Being more charitable
Ibn `Abaas said, "The Prophet (may God send His blessing and peace upon him) was the most charitable amongst the people, and he used to be more so in the month of Ramadan when Jibreel used to meet him on every night of Ramadan till the end of the month." (al-Bukhaaree) The Prophet (may God send His blessing and peace upon him) said, "He who gives food for a fasting person to break his fast, he will receive the same reward as him, without nothing being reduced from the fasting person's reward." (at-Tirmidhee)

LESSON 8: Sensing the unity of the Muslims
The Prophet (may God send His blessing and peace upon him) said, ".Those of you who will live after me will see many differences. Then you must cling to my Sunnah and the Sunnah of the rightly guided khaleefahs. Hold fast to it and stick to it." (Aboo Daawood) In this month we sense that there is a possibility for unity, because we all fast together, we break fast together, we all worship God together, and we pray Salaatul-`Eid together. Therefore we sense that the unity of possible. It is possible for Muslims to be a single body, but this will only be achieved when obedience is only to God and His Messenger.

LESSON 9: Learning discipline
The Prophet (ma God send His blessing and peace upon him) made us adhere to discipline and strictness, strictness that does not lead to fanaticism or going outside the bounds that God has laid down. One cannot knowingly break the fast before the sunset, as this will not be accepted by God. Muslims should learn to be very strict in their lives, because they are people of an important message, which they mold their lives around.

LESSON 10: Teaching the young to worship God
It was the practice of the people of Madina that during the fast of `Aashooraa (which is now a recommended fast of one day) to get their children to fast with them. When the children would cry of hunger and thirst, their parents would distract their attention by giving them some sort of toy to play with. The children would break their fast with their parents. (as mentioned in al-Bukhaaree). So the young should be brought to the masjid and they should pray with their parents, so that they are able to get into the habit of becoming worshippers of God. If one does not encourage children to fast when they are young, they will find it very difficult to fast for thirty days at the age of puberty. This is why the Prophet (may God send His blessing and peace upon him) said, "Command your children to pray at the age of seven and beat them at the age of ten (if they do not pray." (Haakim)

LESSON 11: Caring for one's health
Fasting has many medical benefits and it teaches Muslims to take care of their health and too build strong bodies. The Prophet (may God send His blessing and peace upon him) said, "A strong believer is better and is more beloved to God than a weak believer, and there is good in everyone." (Muslim)

Ramadan - Month of Fasting

Fasting has its advantages from the point of view of health and hygiene. Islam wants a Muslim to be healthy, clean, alert, agile and energetic. "Fast to be healthy," had said the Holy Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.). And physicians today acknowledge the many benefits of fasting that ensure health and the soundness of one's body and mind. Some of these positive points have a direct influence on psychology and physique of the fasting individual.

Fasting has been found to be an effective treatment for psychological and emotional disorders. It helps a person to firm up his will, cultivate and refine his taste and manners, strengthen his conviction of doing good, avoid controversy, petulance and rashness, which all contribute towards a sane and healthy personality. Besides nurturing resistance and ability to face hardships and endurance, fasting reflects on outward physical appearance by cutting out gluttony and getting rid of excess fat. The benefits of fasting on health do not stop there but are instrumental in alleviating a number of physical diseases, including those of the digestive systems, such as chronic stomachache, inflammation of the colon, liver diseases, indigestion, and conditions such as obesity, arteriosclerosis, high blood pressure, asthma, diphtheria and many other maladies.

A Swiss physician Dr. Barsilus noted that: The advantages of hunger as a remedy exceed those ingesting medicine several times.

As readers are well aware, several physicians advise patients to skip meals, sometimes for a few days, before prescribing them a controlled diet.

Generally speaking, fasting hastens the destruction of the decaying tissues of the body by means of hunger, and then builds new tissues through nutrition. This is why some scientists suggest that fasting should be regarded as an effective means of restoring youthfulness and longevity. However, Islam exempts from fasting sick and old people whose health is bound to deter.

But fasting should have its regulations too, and not simply the in orderly skipping meals, that is bound to harm health and stamina, rather than improving them. Here again Islam provides the answer, and in order to realize the benefits of fasting, it recommends the late midnight meals called Sahar (before the formal start of a fast) and the breaking of the fast at the time prescribed. Of course, to ensure good health one should abstain from gluttony after breaking fast.

Moderation: It is difficult to identify the moderation in the desires for food and sex because of the different needs and energies of individuals. Moderation of an individual may be considered as exaggeration or shortage for another. The relative moderation is to have only the quantity that is sufficient, away from greed and fill. The best criterion in this regard is that which was stated by Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib (AS):

"Son! May I instruct you four words after which you will no longer need medicine? Do not eat unless you are hungry. Stop eating while you are still hungry. Chew food deliberately. Before sleeping, go to toilet. You will not need medicine if you follow."

In the holy Quran, there is a Verse gathering the whole matter of medicine. It is: "...Eat and drink but do not be excessive." (7:31)

Fasting Health Benefits: Health Guidelines for Ramadan Fasting

This article provides useful advice on how to avoid some common problems encountered in Ramadan. If followed, it would enable one to fast comfortably and enjoy fully the spiritual benefits of Ramadan.

During the holy month of Ramadan, our diet should not differ very much from our normal diet and should be as simple as possible. The diet should be such that we maintain our normal weight, neither losing nor gaining. However, if one is over-weight, Ramadan is an ideal time to normalize one's weight.

In view of the long hours of fasting, we should consume slow digesting foods including fiber containing-foods rather than fast-digesting foods; slow digesting foods including fiber containing-foods rather than fast-digesting foods. Slow digesting foods last up to 8 hours, while fast-digesting foods last for only 3 to 4 hours.

Slow-digesting foods are foods that contain grains and seeds like barely, wheat, oats, millet, semolina, beans, lentils, whole meal flour, unpolished rice, etc. (called complex carbohydrates).

Fast-burning foods are foods that contain sugar, white flour, etc. (called refined carbohydrates).

Fiber-containing foods are bran-containing foods, whole wheat, grains and seeds, vegetables like green beans, peas, sem (papry), marrow, mealies, spinach, and other herbs like methie, the leaves of beetroot (iron-rich), fruit with skin, dried fruit especially dried apricots, figs and prunes, almonds, etc.

The foods eaten should be well balanced, containing foods from each food group, i.e., fruits, vegetables, meat/chicken/fish, bread/cereals and dairy products. Fried foods are unhealthy and should be limited. They cause indigestion, heartburn, and weight problems.

AVOID:
Fried and fatty foods.
Foods containing too much sugar.
Over-eating especially at sehri.
Too much tea at sehri: Tea makes you pass more urine taking with it valuable mineral salts that your body would need during the day. Smoking cigarettes: If you cannot give up smoking, cut down gradually starting a few weeks before Ramadan. Smoking is unhealthy and one should stop completely.

EAT:
Complex carbohydrates at sehri so that the food lasts longer making you less hungry. Haleem is an excellent source of sugar, fiber, carbohydrates, potassium and magnesium. Almonds are rich in protein and fiber with less fat. Bananas are a good source of potassium, magnesium and carbohydrates.

DRINK:
As much water or fruit juices as possible between iftar and bedtime so that your body may adjust fluid levels in time.

CONSTIPATION:
Constipation can cause piles (hemorrhoids), fissures (painful cracks in anal canal) and indigestion with a bloated feeling.
Causes: Too much refined foods, too little water and not enough fiber in the diet.
Remedy: Avoid excessive refined foods, increase water intake, and use bran in baking, brown flour when making roti.

INDIGESTION AND WIND:
Causes: Over-eating. Too much fried and fatty foods, spicy foods, and foods that produce wind e.g. eggs, cabbage, lentils, carbonated drinks like Cola also produce gas.
Remedy: Do not over-eat, drink fruit juices or better still drink water. Avoid fried foods, add ajmor to wind-producing foods.

LETHARGY (low blood pressure)
Excessive sweating, weakness, tiredness, lack of energy, dizziness, especially on getting up from sitting position, pale appearance and feeling faint are symptoms associated with "low blood pressure". This tends to occur towards the afternoon.
Causes: Too little fluid intake decreased salt intake.
Remedy: Keep cool, increase fluid and salt intake.
Caution: Low blood pressure should be confirmed by taking a blood pressure reading when symptoms are present. People with high blood pressure may need their medication adjusted during Ramadan. They should consult their doctor.

HEADACHE:
Causes: Caffeine and tobacco-withdrawal, doing too much in one day, lack of sleep, hunger usually occurs as the day goes by and worsens at the end of the day. When associated with "low blood pressure", the headache can be quite severe and can also cause nausea before Iftar.
Remedy: Cut down caffeine and tobacco slowly starting a week or two before Ramadan. Herbal and caffeine-free teas may be substituted. Reorganize your schedule during the Ramadan so as to have adequate sleep.

LOW BLOOD SUGAR:
Weakness, dizziness, tiredness, poor concentration, perspiring easily, feeling shaky (tremor), unable to perform physical activities, headache, palpitations are symptoms of low blood sugar.
Causes in non-diabetics: Having too much sugar i.e., refined carbohydrates especially at suhur (sehri). The body produces too much insulin causing the blood glucose to drop.
Remedy: Eat something at sehri and limit sugar-contaning foods or drinks.
Caution: Diabetics may need to adjust their medication in Ramadan, consult your doctor.

MUSCLE CRAMPS:
Causes: Inadequate intake of calcium, magnesium and potassium foods.
Remedy: Eat foods rich in the above minerals e.g. vegetables, fruits, dairy products, meat and dates.
Caution: Those on high blood pressure medication and with kidney stone problems should consult their doctor.

PEPTIC ULCERS, HEART BURN, GASTRITIS AND HIATUS HERNIAB:
Increase acid levels in the empty stomach in Ramadan aggravate the above conditions. It presents as a burning feeling in the stomach area under the ribs and can extend up to the throat. Spicy foods, coffee, and Cola drinks worsen these conditions.
Medications are available to control acid levels in the stomach. People with proven peptic ulcers and hiatus hernia should consult their doctor well before Ramadan.

KIDNEY STONES:
Kidney stones may occur in people who have less liquid to drink. There fore, it is essential to drink extra liquids so as to prevent stone formation.

JOINT PAINS:
Causes: during Ramadan, when extra salah are performed the pressure on the knee joints increases. In the elderly and those with arthritis this may result in pain, stiffness, swelling and discomfort.
Remedy: Lose weight so that the knees do not have to carry any extra load. Exercise the lower limbs before Ramadan so that they can be prepared for the additional strain. Before physically fit allows greater fulfillment, thus enabling one to be able to perform salah with ease.