Campus Environmentalist

Intellectual revisit in Muslim nations

noreply@blogger.com (MI Syakir Ishak) — Wed, 01 Aug 2012 10:07:00 +0000

Today, despite abundance of natural resources, the political turmoil in some Muslim countries has trapped them in cycle of agony. Tyranny goes on wildly leading to extreme poverty. Palestine, Syria, Somalia, and the latest minority Muslim in Rohingya are the cases of endless misery, to name a few.

Whilst in other (Muslim) nations, negligence on the basic right of Muslims such as intellectualism; health, safety and environment; family institution and economy, resulted a brain-drain phenomena which caused a disappointingly low contribution of sciences from the Muslim world.

Intellectualism in Muslim world as if freezing, in turn, rising intolerant social ambience across the Muslim regions, has had a devastating effect on Muslim thought and action leading to narrow interpretation of “deen” (Islam) in public discourses. Rationality was rejected just for the sake of defending status quo. Self-esteem appears no more in Muslim. Why?

Referring to the history of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) and his companions, the key to success is to have a strong belief (faith) in Islam, indeed. In fact, it was mentioned so many times in Quran- the intellectual substance of human race. Such a firm principle has transformed the society from the darkness of ignorance into the light of knowledge, producing many towering personalities across the Muslim expanses. This is evident since the revelation of Quran (which had occurred in Ramadhan) through to the golden age of Islam.

In the golden epoch of Islam, Muslim scholars came up with a remarkable rule of the empirical approach, introduced to the good scientific practices (i.e. observation, measurement, experiment, and conclusion) which emphasized wisdom (search for truth, not support of any favors ideas). The idea evolved through years and formed Muslims attitude in critical thinking. Muslims are free to debate base on tested evidences, hence inspired tolerance, and the advancement of knowledge throughout the dark ages of medieval Europe.

Now, the western appears as the superpower with overwhelmingly high contributions in science and technology. Why? Simply is because of their solid ‘faith’ in science. Even in politics they believe that only science can lead to a better democracy- “No Science, No evidence, No truth, No democracy”.

A question to ponder; what is the Muslim faith today? In this blessing month of Ramadhan, let us take the Quran, seek the answer and ask Allah for His guidance. “Guide us the straight path. The path of those whom You have bestowed favor, not of those who have evoked [Your] anger or those who are astray” [1:6,7]

Nevertheless, Muslim countries do have efforts but world has right to expect more scientific contributions especially from the richer Muslim countries. The latest release by the US National Science Foundation's science and engineering indicators 2012 confirms the rapid expansion of science and technology in Asian regions (China, Taiwan, South Korea, Singapore) with emerging Malaysia (the majority Muslim nation), Thailand and the non-Asian rising power, Brazil and Iran (another Muslim majority state).

The future can be bright but the Muslim intellectual tradition needs to be revived base on true faith in Quran and Sunnah by respecting the faith of others and standing up against the obscurantism, fanaticism, and xenophobia. Thus would promote the values of Islam in our societies (ie: justice, rationality, creativity, the search for truth). Islam encourages freedom: freedom to quest, to challenge, to think, and to envision the future through science. Only then when Islam returned to Muslim, will the glorious episode recur.

References:

Ismail Serageldin. "Science in Muslim Countries ". Science. Vol 321 (2008). 745 pp. 24 July. 2012‹http://www.sciencemag.org/content/321/5890/745›

Munir Nayfeh. "The Muslim diaspora - from brain drain to brain gain?." Online posting. 3 Oct
2007. Scidev net. 25 July. 2012 ‹http://www.scidev.net/en/opinions/the-muslim-diaspora-from-brain-drain-to-brain-ga.html›.

Scientists rally on Parliament Hill to mourn 'death of evidence'". CBC News Ottawa 09 July 2012. 25 July 2012 ‹http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/ottawa/story/2012/07/09/f-scientists-rally.html ›.

Simon Margison."Asian Tigers roaring ahead in science and technology race". The Australian 01 Feb 2012. 25 July 2012 ‹http://www.theaustralian.com.au/higher-education/opinion/asian-tigers-roaring-ahead-in-science-and-technology-race/story-e6frgcko-1226258796085›.

CO2: Go “Recycle” and make money?

noreply@blogger.com (MI Syakir Ishak) — Mon, 21 May 2012 21:50:00 +0000

The business model is simple; capture and sell them off to the energy related companies.Therefore, the companies can keep on their business as usual while gaining a so-called green reputation. In fact, the demand for CO2 is substantial with prices could potentially up to $100 per ton. It’s believed that a huge amount of CO2 (8 billion tons) are required just to reduce the atmospheric concentrations of CO2 by only a part per million (1ppm)- current concentrations ~ 390 ppm. What a huge market!

Yet, the most concern is, how the business would affect the consumers in terms of the prices? Here, a sincere Corporate Social Responsibilities (CSR)is essential by which not transfering the burden (cost of green technology) to the consumers. As well, any green tech services industries should be run non-profit. At this point, capitalism approach should be reviewed. It’s timely that a new business paradigm which could serve a fair deal between the capitalist and the people is introduced.

Lynas: The Sciences vs “Nimbies”

noreply@blogger.com (MI Syakir Ishak) — Fri, 18 May 2012 20:17:00 +0000

There seems to be a miscommunication, perhaps. Scientists (especially those with nuclear expertise) on one side tried their best to convince people that Lynas is no harm at all. Yet, grouses still on with increasing numbers of supports. This was evidenced in the polls which has been set by Umcedel, proposed that 61% wanted the project to be stopped.

Why do people insist to stop the project? Even it was scientifically proven that the project is safe (especially the radioactive issues). Thus, it can be fairly said, the issue is not about safety anymore; suggest that it must be sought interdisciplinary. So, please stop talking obsessively about safety then.

61% was no kidding. It must be something lacking in efforts of building the people confidence on Lynas. It could perhaps, be thought in two ways; either the government failed in effective communication or the people just don’t want the project to be built in Malaysia- as long as NIMBY (Not In My Backyard)

Further reading:
http://www.sinarharian.com.my/nasional/kajian-lynas-perlu-ditutup-sebelum-pru13-1.47189

Near Future: Climate talks at GSAED 15th Interdiscplinary Conference at UOttawa

noreply@blogger.com (MI Syakir Ishak) — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 19:29:00 +0000

I was given a chance to be one of the panelist, to discuss about the climate issues. My focus was on the water and carbon cycles. Below is my abstract for readers to get some perspectives.

Abstract

“Tropics are known to be the dominant source of moisture to higher latitude and their role will become greater when tropics become warmer, speeding the water cycle. Such an acceleration caused by an increase in evaporative demand that would be associated with rising radiative forcing and a dramatic increase in anthropogenic CO2, is believed to rise the global temperature and induce desiccation in many regions across the world. Such potential impact demands to place more attention on the water issues. As population is rapidly increasing, additional concerns must be placed on food security at times of water scarcity since food production is closely related to water consumption. The linkage to CO2 is via diffusion and transpiration processes where CO2 and H2O exchange between the plant and the atmosphere. Both processes share the pathway through the stomata, with 1:1 ratio of water to carbon dioxide for actual photosynthesis, but 1000:1 for transpiration itself. Thus huge amount of energy are needed just to drive the water cycle that transports nutrients in biological system, via transpiration “conveyor belt” back to the atmosphere. However, the rise in atmospheric CO2 was observed to correspond to stomatal conductance reduction, suggesting that plants adapt to drought by optimizing their carbon gain to water loss. This phenomenon was proposed to account for increased continental runoff, making more water available for food production. Such observation is inconsistent with the prediction that global warming due to elevated CO2 should cause droughts. Hence the impact of evapotranspiration, as a nexus for planetary energy and carbon cycles remains poorly constrained, while the role of the water cycle, the main greenhouse gas is minimized”

P/S: The cause of global warming, whether antropogenic or natural phenomena, it remain disputable. In reality, the world is warming. Hence necessitates any of technological advancement especially for the adaptation efforts.

Lynas: the facts that we should know about our own ‘backyard’

noreply@blogger.com (MI Syakir Ishak) — Fri, 02 Mar 2012 02:24:00 +0000

Regarding Lynas, much has been said about safety. Yet, other aspects such as environment and social still remain poorly articulated. This provides less confidence to people, which eventually leads to public protest. Fortunately, Akademi Sains Malaysia (ASM) has come to the rescue, with 84-page report on the rare earth elements industry (REE)

Besides the advantages of this multi-million dollar industry, the report also mentions the significant amount of pollutants that could be potentially generated from the plant. It is learned that for every of 100,000 tons of rare earth concentrates per year, 200 tons of Thorium dioxide (ThO2) residue is generated (extraction phase). Moreover, the production phase could cause several potential pollutants, specifically in air, water and radioactive residue; a ton of rare earth concentrates cause the emission of chemical gases (ie: containing fluoride, SO2, SO3) and dust (9600-12000 m3). As well, 75 m3 of acid-washing waste water and one ton of radioactive residue are generated.

Lynas operation in Gebeng, Pahang, potentially generates three types of residues [Water Leach Purification Residue (WLP), Flue Gas Desulphurisation Residue (FGD) and Neutralisation Underflow Residue (NUF)]. WLP contains mainly synthetic gypsum, while the NUF is rich in magnesium.

These residues are expected to contain thorium, uranium and their decay products at concentration of about 1600 ppm (Th) and 30 ppm (U) depending on the minerals used in the process. Beneficiation of the residues will be subjected to AELB Act 1984 and EQ Act 1974. If the thorium and uranium levels can be reduced to natural concentration defined by naturally occurring radioactive materials (NORM), WLP and NUF residues can be utilized for other industries.

However, to date, research shows a paucity of data on Rare Earth Elements (REE) recycling. Hence, a permanent safe and secure repository site is needed and therefore a location for the repository site will become an issue.

Peninsular Malaysia comprises an area of 131 587 km2 and it is composed of highland, floodplain and coastal zones. Geographically, Peninsular Malaysia is characterized by a dense network of streams and rivers which consists numerous individual drainage basins, most of their divides serving as state boundaries.

The main factor that controls the drainage pattern is the Titiwangsa mountain range, the backbone of the Peninsula, from southern Thailand running approximately south-southeast over a distance of 480 km and separating its eastern from western part. The rainfall regime over Peninsular Malaysia is mainly governed by the monsoon, with more than 2000 mm of rainfall annually.

Considering the facts above, a decision for a repository site in this relatively high populated region (~over 20 million people) is becoming more complicated. As Peninsular Malaysia is characterized by a dense network of streams and rivers with high annual rainfall, it could be said that water is the most challenging factor to REE waste management as it determines the fate and transport of pollutants if any accident occurs, and hence disaster.

Potential environmental implication of REE industries and great demand by the high tech industries worldwide, pose great challenges for the country while at the same time, the struggle to meet high standard of safety and advance environmental and social values is greatly expected.

In this regards, all parties involved (ie: government agencies) should come out with a more transparent, integrated and convincing cradle to grave plan, particularly on the waste management issues. This should involve the whole chains of the rare earth extraction industry to enhance the public confidence. AELB did a good move by asking Lynas to submit their Permanent Disposal Facility Plan (PDF) in any way necessary since tropical climate is of critical concern.

Looking at the size of Peninsular Malaysia, Gebeng could be thought as our own “backyard” regardless of where we live in Malaysia. After all, communication advancement is essential. Effective communication then provide the public with better convincing facts and hence avoid any mystification. The Malaysian people are welcome to any development effort provided the sustainable agenda is on the top list of priority concerns.

2012: In quest of a true life

noreply@blogger.com (MI Syakir Ishak) — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 07:31:00 +0000

Farewell to 2011- a year of natural disasters and economic turmoil- makes the New Year celebration just with more relief than happiness as people still in the nightmare of economic uncertainties. Regardless of what happens, 2012 are just numbers that awakening to the fact; there are still many things to achieve.

When writing about achievement, it always couple with challenges. As usual, nearly all of us do prepare our own so called “strategic planning”- in fact we did it since our high school, especially for those who will seat the big exam in a particular year (ie; PMR, SPM etc). Yeah, it worked, indeed! - At least for me. Set the target and just go for it.

However, life is complex which engages values that beautify human being. Therefore the “strategic planning” alone isn’t sufficient to make individual succeed in life. The goal is broad which entails believe, intellectual, social and prosperity. All those factors, must be balanced in order to succeed in life.

Thanks to the cutting-edge technology that makes our life easier. Technology is awesome! I really feel good about technology. It just requires us to acquire the skills, so that we can master the technology and employ it as a quantum leap to succeed. Nevertheless, such technology, skills and planning are just a small portion of victory. There is another key that will guide us to the true excellence of life namely wisdom. Without wisdom, we will get a false picture about the real meaning of life.

Rejuvenating students’ activism

noreply@blogger.com (MI Syakir Ishak) — Sun, 27 Nov 2011 14:58:00 +0000

Another surprised after ISA, now the good news is for students. If government really repeals the Section 15 of the Universities and University Colleges Act (UUCA) 1974 (AUKU), students who are 21, free to join any of their favorite political party! Such flexibility is a democratic respect to all Malaysian youth

Yeah, now youngsters could have more choices to organize their social works as the activities going to be diversified and fun with more collaborations and networks. This would broaden their horizon, looking at world from various perspectives that could foster a critical thinking which one of the key factors in towering personality.

However, political participation should be strongly base on individual intellectual capacity. Such revokes (of AUKU) will become useless if youngsters blindly join the politics base on sentiments. It is timely for all students to grab the opportunity to become a third force group in their party. After all, student participation is not about embracing the fanaticism- my party is always right, but the prospect is to make things right for the party. Democracy will then have an impact.

Let's work for a better world

noreply@blogger.com (MI Syakir Ishak) — Sun, 16 Oct 2011 20:35:00 +0000

Rising food costs in 2010-2011 has resulted an extreme poverty to almost 70 million people globally, according to the World Bank. For the record, the food prices soared since 2006 and experienced a fluctuation trend until today, suggests the food price volatility has probably come to stay.

This means the poor may having the food shortage which eventually cause malnutrition and a terrific starvation phenomena. It is not a good news indeed! Today’s turbulent commodities markets in addition with the global protest against capitalism send us a strong message that some things radical must be done to bring back the world’s prosperity.

For the short term, the challange for the world (especially developed countries) is to manage the volatile food prices issue. This requires an information of the key factors of which contribute to the “disaster”. In the long run, we should rethink the modern system that we are suffering today and work for a sustainable system that provides a true justice for all.

MERDEKA in a nutshell

noreply@blogger.com (MI Syakir Ishak) — Sat, 24 Sep 2011 12:36:00 +0000

31 August 2011 is the 54th independence day of Malaysia. MERDEKA is an inspirational word to Malaysian. Nevertheless, the discourse about the significant meaning of MERDEKA is simply scarce. Ironically it had been deteriorated by the cheap sort of political polemic and rhetoric.

Yet, both parties just stay defensive with all those polemics which unfortunately retards the intellectual discourse. Unlike the scientific verdict, any claims or hypothesis will be scientifically tested and this would be a time-consuming. Therefore let the experts do their job, to say the least.

There are many things that we should focus on, especially the systems. (ie: environment, utilities, energy, education, health, economy, social, judiciary, politic etc.) The main question is about the government achievement in terms of improving the systems since 54 years of independence? As well, what is the achievement of the Opposition as a part of the establishment for the country’s prosperity?

Malaysia needs highly competent leaders to move forward. There is only Malaysian who will be able to set the designation of a competent leader. Therefore the key of the characteristic setting are the simple questions above which too serve as an outline in determining our future direction, more than ever for the young generation.

It is time for youngsters to redefine the meaning of MERDEKA with the value of our own ethos, truly Malaysian. After all, MERDEKA is about the liberty from any oppressive systems, sovereignty of justice and the freedom with dignity. These should be our aspiration to achieve a truly independence kingdom.- Salam Kemerdekaan to all respected Malaysian!

Why their labs are world-class standard?

noreply@blogger.com (MI Syakir Ishak) — Sat, 13 Aug 2011 16:08:00 +0000

It has been almost two years of my academic abode in Ottawa, Canada, to make it specific, the University Of Ottawa. The structure for the Doctoral studies here can be generally divided by years. On the first year, the candidates will be required to complete the coursework and at the mean time setting a research milestone. As well, they have to seat the comprehensive exam as soon as possible- to make sure that the research is on track.

In the full solid second year, most of the candidates are merely dedicate to data collection and analysis followed by the thesis writing on the third year. Candidates are expected to have several publications and to prepare for a viva-voce on the final year. That is how it works in general, however it is too complicated in reality. What can I do, besides working with full swing, is praying, praying and praying

After all, it is about physical and mental challenges. Set myself physically fit to work in the environment of postgraduate studies. It might walk off long working hour sometimes and could be soothing at certain time. It’s all about my time. For the mental preparation, praying does offer me a peace and tranquility. Apart from that, my family is my life. Thanks to my wife, Norhasimah for her immense sacrifice, perseverance and patient to look after our growing kids. My little sweet “Qisth(s)” Wafa and Afeef who always make me chuckle all the time. Facebook is another great stuff, watching our beloved family updates and photos of our back home will greatly allay our terrible homesick. Yet, the people (Malay friends and Canadian), colleagues and supervisors are all awesome and inspiring!- make me enjoy my study in Ottawa.

One of the advantageous of studying abroad is to learn the culture. To work with colleagues from multicultural background is a wonderful experience indeed. The university world-class facilities and laboratory just impressed! All of the laboratories in my department are led by a visionary and enthusiastic champion! I found most of managers hold a PhD in their expertise (they are not professors anyway) and the technicians are all graduates with most of them hold a Masters degree. Their works are just dedicated to the research as well as to keep the laboratory in an advance condition. Furthermore, all the technicians whom I work with are friendly and willing to share their knowledge.

This is how they value people in order to encourage and optimize every possible opportunity for learning and development to the students. Lab is not just to work with the scientific routine but also as a second “home” to the scientist because half of our time is just sitting there working with our fancy gears. Therefore it requires a culture that recognizes learning as fundamental to success. Learning their working culture makes me no wonder why they manage to become a world-class laboratory in this competitive research industry.

My Ramadhan in Ottawa

noreply@blogger.com (MI Syakir Ishak) — Sat, 06 Aug 2011 21:08:00 +0000

It has been already 6 days we are in Ramadhan. That is how quick the time flies. The unique about Ramadhan in Ottawa this year is the long hours of fasting. It takes us almost 16 hours to fast. Yet the atmosphere is totally poles apart to compare with Malaysia. People eat everywhere during the day time and one thing that I found missing here is the bazaar! Yeah, that makes me terribly homesick. However, to be frank to my fellow readers, I enjoy the Ramadhan here.

The breakfast starts around 8.30 pm. Our routine is to take a nap after the Maghrib prayer and then will wake up around 1.30 am for Isya’, Taraweeh and Suhur. Imsa’ is around 4.15 am. So we will continue to have our good sleep after Fajr. Our day will starts around 9.30 am and my office hours start from 11.00 am to 6.00 pm. That is how we adapt the Ramadhan so far.

“Ramadhan is the fiesta of worshiping to Allah”, that was what I’ve been told by the Shaykh during the Ramadhan workshop in the mosque. There are bountiful awards from Allah during Ramadhan. It just like you are entering the mall with free coupons that allows you to take everything you want in the mall! So, what are we going to do with such a lavish offer? It is null and void if we just incoming the mall without a proper preparation as it might end up with offend after realize that we did nothing besides window shopping! Too bad! Therefore planning is essential as to ensure that we are not having a false start at the beginning of Ramadhan. Improving our recitation and do a little bit of memorizing of the Quran (besides the taraweeh prayer) are pretty good enough. As the saying goes, if you cannot to attain at all, do not to leave it at all. After all, setting the consistency in the religious deeds (amal) is paramount.

The rest is archetypal. My routine is to work with the chunks of samples (analysis) and thesis writing, sneaking into Facebook in the mean time and reading news in a glance. Being as PhD candidate makes me feel fretful sometimes, especially when thinking about novelty of my research. I am still in the mode of getting the right meaning of novelty, to be frank. My preliminary results still basic and nothing new in terms of knowledge contribution. It does contribute but still far to be qualified as PhD thesis. Ramadhan is just in the nick of time and for this reason, I will take this opportunity to complain about the feebleness of my strength, the paucity of my skill and my significance in the eyes of creatures.

To all readers, Ramadhan Mubarak!

Summer retreat

noreply@blogger.com (MI Syakir Ishak) — Mon, 27 Jun 2011 19:34:00 +0000

Fall and winter sessions were just so much stressful. It’s all about works, study and research. It’s just between me and school, to say the least. Despite living under pressure, I enjoyed my life hang out around campus for long hours, meeting students and looking for clues to my research advancement.

After gone through the harsh winter with average temperature of -20C, the summer finally comes! The good things about summer are no more jackets, boots and all those kind of annoying winter stuff! My dressing looks more simple and comfortable. Yet I get more rooms to retreat myself in terms of studies and of course spend more quality times with my family!

In summer, more works can be focused on lab and analysis. Yet it is the best time to strategize the next move ahead. Just take a deep breath…. and go for it! PhD is still long way to go….

Defeating Islamophobia the Canadian way

noreply@blogger.com (MI Syakir Ishak) — Wed, 10 Nov 2010 20:02:00 +0000

It is interesting to learn about the muslim minority in a country such as Canada. Despite a statistically ‘insignificant’ population (around 2% of the Canadian population), the muslim presence in Canada has been much appreciated by almost all Canadians. RIS for instance, is becoming a flagship Islamic convention in Northern America and even Calgarians are now just getting their new muslim mayor who is a Professor by profession. It is noteworthy that Nasheed Nenshi also holds a Masters in public policy at Harvard University. Here, what is upmost is competitiveness and religious factors do not seem to matter in Canada. So, why does Islamophobia matter?

This phrase really caught my attention: The Rise of ISLAMOPHOBIA: A Rational Approach to Irrational Fears. The Canadian Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-CAN) sponsored an event that was organized by the MAC Youth Campus, featuring the prominent Canadian-muslim activist; Imam Zijad Delic, Maher Arar, Ehab El-Komy, Ayman Faris (moderator) and the author Of Hockey and Hijab, sister Sheema Khan.

In short, three main obstacles that came out from the ‘brainstorming’ session were thus; the post 911 impact, attitudinal problems of muslims and media propaganda. Most of the discussions were more directed on highlighting the internal issues of being a Canadian muslim. The ideas were tabled multi dimensionally, ranging from the new Fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence) dimension to social muslim institutions.

The issues of domestic violence among the muslim community were worrisome and might eventually distort non-muslim perceptions about Islam. This was what concerned Sheema. Furthermore the youth were the most affected group by the rise of Islamophobia. In Europe for instance, they have been marginalized by society, added El-Khomy. He raised several issues on youth matters, with one being youth education. This got the following question from the audience: how should we approach the youth as they are getting further away from their family, since the street is now their “home?. Yet, media roles seem to worsen the situation as they show more bad coverage rather than good about Islam. However, the media issues were just superficially touched on by Maher Arar.

Blaming the media for spreading Islamophobia would not solve the problem. “Islamophobia must be defeated from within”, Delic asserted. In this regard, he has proposed some priority issues that muslims should deal with; family and gender issues, youth empowerment and muslim participation in canadian society. Managing those priorities then would be a quantum leap in building a new perspective of Islam in Canada.

After all, the best course indeed is to follow the example of the prophet Muhammad (Pbuh). Let us see how much love that the prophet (Pbuh) had in his heart during his critical time spent dealing with the street urchins and the riff raff of the town in Ta’if, who taunted and hurted him. The prophet just turned to Allah and prayed for his blessing and merciful, instead! "O Allah, To Thee I complain of my weakness, my lack of resources and my lowliness before men. O most Merciful! Thou art the Lord of the weak and Thou art my Lord. To whom wilt Thou relinquish my fate! To one who will misuse me? Or to an enemy to whom Thou hast given power over me? If Thou art angry with me then I care not what happens to me. Thy favor is all that counts for me. I take refuge in the light of Thy countenance, by which all darkness is illuminated. And the things of this world and next are rightly ordered. I wish to please Thee until Thou art pleased. There is no power and no might save in Thee".

To defeat Islamophobia, Sheema’s profound suggestion is “Just do it right!”: to live with the principles that would show appreciation for the Canadian ethos by reconciling Islamic values with that of western democracy.

Malaysia and numbers matters

noreply@blogger.com (MI Syakir Ishak) — Wed, 25 Aug 2010 01:39:00 +0000

Being a top 10 in the World Competitiveness Yearbook (WCY)- established by the Swiss-based Institute for Management Development (IMD). Again, Malaysia has been ranked 37th best country in the world by Newsweek- an international news magazine. The ranking has been based on a set of critical parameter which consist quality of life, education, health, economy as well as politics.

For most Malaysians who have ventured abroad, Yeah, it sounds cool! Why not? Nice weather with the lower cost of living as well as Malaysian cuisines with their open-air stalls along the street, really contribute to make the country so livable.

Even our premier public universities, USM, UKM, UTM, UPM are all within the top 500 world’s ranking list which their VCs deserve to get a credit. Thousands of graduates have been produced every year generally reflects the intellectual development of Malaysian are in good progress even though many of them failed to get their dream jobs.

The extensions of civil servant services to the age of 58 also roughly indicate that we might have better health condition. In addition with excellent international business track record by local multinational companies such as PETRONAS, IOI and Air Asia, giving more confidences that this so called ranking does make sense.

However, I just wondering how the ‘marking scheme’ has been setup for political environment? I am not a political scientist anyway, but by doing a quick looks on our political scenario, it’s too bad to say the least. – more rhetoric rather than idealism.

The results are unpleasant things happen around us as we come across case after case of people dumping newborn babies, murder, robbery and mental illness. Then there seems to be an attempt by some quarters at every turn to provoke with the racial element (leading to race-hate) in order to create a racial tension among Malaysian. So, what a big deal with the beautiful numbers above?

Nevertheless, Malaysia scores quite well in the political segment in the Newsweek list. What made interesting about the findings was that despite all the rancour around, the country scored a high 73.5 out of a possible 100 for political stability. Yeah, we just got B for stability, not too bad.

In spite of being so subjective, at least we learn that we still have something to appreciate, political stability, which sometimes tends to lull some of us into taking things for granted. I dream to see such a ranking set by our ulama’ (Islamic scholar) base on precious shariah objectives (Maqasid Al Shariah), to bring back the people’s confidence to live peace and harmony.

Who has fed them, [saving them] from hunger and made them safe, [saving them] from fear (Al Quran 106:4)

Rethinking Modernity

noreply@blogger.com (MI Syakir Ishak) — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 21:45:00 +0000

A bunch of reports about environmental crisis have been revealed. But the situation is somewhat stay still and even worse, perhaps. While global warming in disputes, many countries are running out in freshwater supplies jeopardizing human health and to certain extent national security too.

Water consumption went up sevenfold as global population tripled in 20th century, to quote Maudhe Barlow of the Council of Canadians in her book Blue Covenant. It is interesting to get a nettle grasp about global water consumption trend today. We apparently got a wide gap between population growth and water consumption ratio.

The question of why this annoying trend appears, and what is a driving force to it, can’t be simply answered by neither scientist nor engineers but necessitates a multi disciplinary of knowledge approach which involve all stakeholders from grassroots to religious scholars.

In general, muslims scholars such as Al Ghazali (505 AH) and Fakhr Al Din Al Razi (606 AH), have done a remarkable works in developing an imperative theory known as Al Maqasid Shariah. The theory then expanded by Yusuf Al Qaradhawi and Taha Jabir Al Alwani. Dr Taha has studied the Quran to identify the divine structural link between Islamic jurisprudence and it higher objectives (maqasid). Base on his studies, he emphasized a very fundamental key of ethics direction in today`s modern society, thus; strengthening the oneness of God (Tawhid), purification of the soul (Tazkiyah) and developing civilization on earth (Imran). Even Dr. Jasser Auda has suggested that striving for human development is a part of contemporary conception of Al Maqasid which required a proactive action in bringing justice to all particularly in issues such development and right.

Alas, the structure of today so called civilization has going out of it fundamental shape when people neglected the important keys of sustainability; Tawhid and Tazkiyah. Global water crisis for instance, is facing rapidly growing demand but the supply is decreasing as it affected by deforestation (loss of watersheds). Severe depletion also occurred in groundwater resources as water was being exploited for agriculture and industries. India, China, West Asia, Russia and the United States have shown serious water-table drops due to intensive mining of their groundwater. Furthermore, pollution has degraded the quality of much surface water and made many of people (especially poor) suffered as Martin Khor of Third World Network has reported, five million people die from water-borne diseases annually.

Science has shown the reality of our ``modern`` achievement where a lot of poverty amid plenty, agony and calamities. Rethinking modernity needs a serious integration of those above three key values, indeed. This effort (integration process) will not result in overnight but needs desire and patience of individual. Begining by strengthening ourselves with Tawhid, Tazkiyah and pursue higher achievement in professionalism, muslims will be able to make a noble transformation in modernism.

“Evil has appeared on land and sea because of what the hands of men have earned, that He may make them taste a part of that which they have done, in order that they may return” (30:41)

Setting milestones

noreply@blogger.com (MI Syakir Ishak) — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 06:29:00 +0000

This idea came across my mind when I read the verses from Surah Al Ankabut: 2-3 which have been posted by sis Ain (undergrad student from U of Toronto) in the Hadith and Quran sharing web@ Facebook. So I just wanna make something merry on that section by throwing some brief views and a humble comments with respect to the reality of our life today.

Thanks to all friends who have been participated in sharing the authentic hadith and the holy Quran verses. All those effort will be very useful if we together take a little efforts to arrange the inputs in a thematic manner. Hope this simple work will enlighten our soul and mind to go to a great length.

Excellent, can’t be achieved overnight, indeed. Its need sacrifice to keep our nose to grindstone. Setting milestones is one way to get our foot in the door of virtue. Verses two and three from Surah Al Ankabut, serve a lesson that Allah has reminded people to ‘welcome’ any challenges that going to be a long row to hoe.

Managing such a can of worms, necessitates priority in actions. The ‘first think first’ ability, requires an intellectual strength from each individual muslim. In this regards, intellectualism consist sure knowledge, certainty as well as firm evidence (refer Ibn Katsir at Surah Yusuf :108)

After all, idealism is heart of the matter. In reality, the faith, way of life, knowledge, love and wealth are the elements to be strengthened by the divine activism as in Surah Ali Imran: 110. Together we strive for Khaira Ummah!

Pray.. donate.. and do whatever you can for Haiti..

noreply@blogger.com (MI Syakir Ishak) — Sun, 31 Jan 2010 05:05:00 +0000

What else could we say about terrible earthquake in Haiti? Thousands were killed, millions became ‘homeless’ and starving to death. It is subtle to grasp the language of nature. The question is, Why the nature was so furious to Haiti? Technically, geoscientist can give the concise scientific answer.- “geohazard” which can occur at any time..

Stephen Lendmen has point some facts about Haiti before the disaster. Hardships have overwhelmed Haitian for years. Most of them suffered less basic needs such as water, electricity, sanitation and other public services. In fact three-fourths of Haitians live on less than US$2 (just enough to pay for a large cup of France Vanilla coffee!) a day and over half on less than US$1.

Even Haiti has the highest HIV/AIDs incidence outside of sub-Sararan Africa, and the World Bank ranks Haiti as the lowest in the hemisphere on sanitation, nutrition and available health services with only 25 doctors and 11 nurses per 100,000 population, and most rural areas are on their own.

What could we expect Haiti to prepare for any uncertainties like the recent devastating earthquake if their live is in very poor condition ? Establishing a better organization in managing such a disaster need a substantial support of the country’s economic strength. The nature has served a lesson that Haiti deserved for a better living. Pray.. donate…and do whatever you can to support a better Haiti. Salute to all volunteers in Haiti…

What’s so happy about new year?

noreply@blogger.com (MI Syakir Ishak) — Sun, 10 Jan 2010 21:05:00 +0000

The fireworks and parties are the most common celebration for new year events around the world. All wishes for a blessing an interesting year ahead- hopefully it will. But the unfortunate anti-climax ending in the last Copenhagen climate conference and looming Umar Farouk Abdulmutallab as an "Underwear Bomber" (by some American media outlets), have disturbed and frightened many of us in the world. More depressing, when we can’t do anythings about the long terrible atrocities in Gaza.

In fact, contributing to worsen the agony of Palestinians! The shame of such 20 meters depth wall underneath where has been built at the Egypt- Palestinian border is really embarrassing the muslim worldwide. It reflects the political mockery and religion abuse among the so called Muslim leaders itself. It is saddened to hear the Egyptian government becomes the ally of Israeli policy as Ramadan has penned his severe critics onto this matter; isolating, strangling, starving, and smothering Palestinian civilian life after having eradicated hundreds. Only a sick man dares to do such unacceptable act, indeed! All those disgraceful acts must be condemned regardless whether we are muslim or not.

Promoting peace is the continuous effort. The peace and love messages should be delivered in every aspect of life. Despite the Al Qaeda’s issues, the healthy dialogues between muslim and non- muslim must be intellectually proceed in order to create a trustworthy atmosphere among the community even it is hard some times.

The term of sustainability that have been spelled by almost every leaders in the world remain meaningless if at the same time we take no actions at to solve the endless conflicts of Palestine, Afghanistan, Somalia and many more. What is the meaning of successful in carbon reduction if at the same time we create more carbon footprint by stimulating war and disasters?

After all, what is so happy about this new year if most of our friends worldwide still suffering the agony which resulted by the greedy.

Our Climate future

noreply@blogger.com (MI Syakir Ishak) — Thu, 31 Dec 2009 17:08:00 +0000

Until now as the Copenhagen climate summit has just past, the CO2 have been continuously emitted and reached at 30% above the time during the UNFCCC deal since 17 years ago. Overall, the concentrations keep on increasing by 50% since the industrial revolution era. Generally, the temperature might possibly up to 5 0C at the end of this century if such a trend prolonged. This would probably lead to fast-melting ice sheet, rising sea levels, drought, disease, and the most ironic is collapsing agricultural industries that would lead to severe global hunger.

All such possibilities have necessitated the developing countries to call the industrialized countries to stop their massive emissions for about 40% from their 1990s level by 2020. Unfortunately, those rich countries just only want to commit for 13 to 19% which reflected very low ambition effort.

Nevertheless, for about USD 30 billion have been allocated over the next three years to help the developing countries to prepare for a warmer climate including forest protection as well as integrating new technologies into the sustainable development plans. The Copenhagen accord also states the developed countries will jointly mobilize USD100 billion a year by 2020 for developing countries. Despite the so called lucrative deal, it is unclear how new the funds will be, since the developed countries have already committed to contribute billions of dollars to the World Bank’s climate investment funds.

It is hard indeed, to gain an unanimous agreement in such a big global event like Copenhagen summit. That is life. Despite the conference ended in disarray, principally the delegates still accept the scientific view which firmly call to bridle the temperature from being increase above 2 0C. But when there are no quantitative decision upon the reduction of GHG emissions from the developed countries as well as a dim new billion dollar funds mechanism, Copenhagen summit seems in a vague direction.

Pessimism along the road to Copenhagen ?

noreply@blogger.com (MI Syakir Ishak) — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 00:15:00 +0000

The efforts of Muslim scholars in the great Umayyah and Abasiyah dynasties have historically inspired an enlightenment movement in Europe. The Renaissance in Europe has lead to a radical change in the West namely Industrial revolution. This revolution has boosted up the economic growth in western countries. In fact, in reality of today’s economic performance shows that all western countries (except Japan) are complacently on the top five position in World Bank GDP list with their average lucrative GDPs from two to 14 million USD, while most of the developing countries are still scrambling to a prosperous position.

Nevertheless, this revolution has left the bigger ecological footprints since the era. Human activities have led to an increase in global temperatures by 0.4 to 0.8 degree Celsius just in one century. This rapid increment was due to GHGs emissions particularly CO2 which it volumes were continuously escalating from 280 ppm in the year 1800 to 315 ppm during 1958 and up to 367 ppm by the new millennium (2000). Furthermore, by the trend of massive consumption of fossil fuel as well as deforestation in the name of economic development, therefore the CO2 volume is expected to go higher in between 540-970 ppm by the year 2100.

Natural disasters like 2005’s devastation hurricane Katrina in New Orleans, United States and Sumatera’s furious floods tragedy in 2006 as well as many more disasters lately have served a lesson that our world will be in perish if there are no any actions have been taken to curb climate change problems. Climate change is not a new issue, indeed. Serious concern on it, have led to a so called comprehensive Kyoto Protocol effort which encompassed financial incentives as well as environment-friendly initiatives. Under the Protocol, industrialized countries agreed to reduce their collective greenhouse gas emissions by 5% from the 1990 level.

However the initiatives are not as much easier as in paper. It requires noble and concerted efforts from all. In fact, until today, US still in fickle on their commitments to the dead end Protocol Kyoto. Furthermore, the green technology transfer programmes in between developed and developing countries seems nowhere.

Following preparatory talks in Bonn, Bangkok and Barcelona recently, Copenhagen is just miles away for the world to catch up. Even now, conflicts are getting more deepened with an attempt to shift the burden of responsibility to developing countries by abandon the Kyoto Protocol. How much the rich countries will reduce their emissions is still in doubtful and what the poor would benefit from the summit also seems gloom. After all only the sincerity will succeed the post-2012 pact with environmentally ambitious outcomes in Copenhagen. Would they hold the principles of UNFCCC and Bali Action plan? Just wait and see.

Excuse me Prof, pay your parking please….

noreply@blogger.com (MI Syakir Ishak) — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 01:46:00 +0000

This phrase is weird and sound rude if we textually ‘import’ to Malaysia. How dare you are asking pay to professor? We use to have a lot of parking spaces in Malaysia’s universities and of course there have some special allocation for our respected Professors. I realized this, when I went out for dinner with my Professor.

Why did you park your car so far from our department? I was asking him. “Oh.. it is expensive to park nearby our department”. Oh ya! I subconsciously response in Malay words. “We are all same..” he replied. As long as you pay then you deserve it.

This is one of the scenario of Canadian’s culture where they believe in equality. Canada is a geographically vast and ethnically diverse country. Immigration from all over the world were greatly influencing Canadian culture. In fact, they value multiculturalism and Canadian culture seems inherently multicultural today.

But it totally different in Malaysia as Malaysian still strongly hold to their tradition of respecting people, especially who have title by giving them a priority or other special privileges This is the unique of the world. Individually have their own tradition and believe to certain principal.

After all, both difference reflect competitiveness, which necessitate work hard to stand tall with others. As the saying goes, the far we go, the wider we look. I appreciate the difference, indeed.

When we learn from nature

noreply@blogger.com (MI Syakir Ishak) — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 01:22:00 +0000

This is my first fall in Ottawa and as usual the city are ‘ablazed’ with the colours of the season- orange and red. It is awesome! One of the best place to enjoy the fall foliage is Gatineau Hill. My family and I took a steam train, relax and enjoy the scenery of perfect moments along the way.

I wonder how Canadian appreciate their nature especially river. There have some residential along the river but the pollution is still under control. The study which have been done by University of Ottawa in collaboration with Friends of Gatineau River have shown that fecal contamination was low.

From my simple observation, I can say that the river and the nature are part of the status symbol in Canada, besides fancy car and bungalow. Of course all the houses architecture along the river reflect their owners. While in the most regions in developing countries heavy pollution of their river have turn the area into an urban slum.

In spite of bad pollution, some of the rivers rehabilitation efforts like in Melaka, Malaysia (although it just reach the beautification phase) should be given a credit. Singapore river is one of the great example too. Nevertheless such efforts need millions of dollars. The water quality of Gatineau Rivers show us how prevention is better than cure.

* Most of the scenic picture have been uploaded at the Campus Environmentalist Network Facebook.

Canada:Recycle everywhere

noreply@blogger.com (MI Syakir Ishak) — Sun, 27 Sep 2009 14:19:00 +0000

Perhaps, Malaysian can escape with thousand of excuses if we compare our recycling effort with Japan. We can simply say that Japan can go for a great recycling work because of their strong culture base, the spirit of Mottainai. But what about western such as Canada? I am not so sure whether they have such culture like Japan.

However the Regional councilor Jack Heath, chairman of Markham's waste diversion committee, admitted that Canadian had some trepidation too at the beginning, but after a few weeks they found this isn't that difficult to do so. It just a matter of the strong will of council to solve the problem that basically changed the system, and that's how they get to where they are, now.Statistics Canada's Households and the Environment Survey, found the proportion of household waste recycled by Canadians greatly increased by 8% in four years. The survey also found a positive progress in household composting efforts which increased by 4% in 12 years periods.

While in Malaysia, we are still grumbling for low recycling rate and again, the blame have been put on the society. If we look from the attitude perspective, then it is true as this have been proven since 15 years ago.- the previous campaign failed to raise the public awareness. Hence, the political will must take the place as how it was done by Canada if we aspire to exceed the rate of 5% in the future.

You could change the government but never destroy the nation.

noreply@blogger.com (MI Syakir Ishak) — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 14:43:00 +0000

While walking to Ottawa mosque for Jumaah prayer, I was having time to talk with one of the muslim Canadian. He has migrated since 20 years ago. Now he seems to have a pretty good life here. He felt regret when started to story about his country. Political scuffle have led to a tragic nightmare in his life which necessitate him to move out from his beloved country, Somalia

The civil war disrupted agriculture and food distribution in southern Somalia, resulting famine. Over 300,000 people dead and the country just collapsed in all of sudden. The country remain relatively poor as their GDP only reach $600 per capita. However according to a study by the UNDP and the European Commission, it is estimated that as much as $1 billion USD is annually remitted to Somalia by Somalis in the diaspora. Civil war has shaped a large diaspora community as many of the best educated Somalis left for the Middle East, Europe and North America.

Until now, Somalia is still fragile with their endless civil war. “hey! young man, if you are angry with your government change them in a wise manner, but don’t ever destroy your country just to satisfy your anger” He smiled and got into the mosque..

Ramadhan in Ottawa

noreply@blogger.com (MI Syakir Ishak) — Mon, 07 Sep 2009 21:41:00 +0000

It's almost a week we were in Ottawa. Our jet-lagged recovered and yes, we are in a new world, Canada. Fortunately, Ottawa is still in summer and the temperature range around 14 to 27C with lower humidity and the breezing air just like Cameron Highland, Malaysia.Wafa has no problem so far, adapting to the new environment. Our Ramadhan just simple yet, still fun! -with new friends and "new way of fasting" - without "Bazar Ramadhan". We just lucky that Kak Azidah and her husband, Abg Moe have offered their house upon our arrival- May Allah bless them with a bountiful barakah, ameen. We stayed in their house for about two weeks before moving to our house in Hull. Kak Azidah already stayed in Ottawa for quite a long time. Besides us, there was also another family staying together, Irwan-Aimi with their two little cute kids, Maryam and Aiman- make our Ramadhan more happening! We prepared the Iftar together and performed Tarawih just at home. After the Tarawih, we went out to have a so called "moreh" at Tim Hortons (the Canadian coffee outlet). This was my first time trying the sweet French Vanilla! Oh! the taste was so good! but still missing the Malaysian"teh tarik" somehow. After all, we are already here in Ottawa. Many things need to catch up before the beginning of Fall session.- and the new story begin.