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Islamic World News ( 11 Sept 2023, NewAgeIslam.Com)

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'Where Hate Is Proof Of Patriotism': Javed Akhtar While Receiving Honorary Degree In London's SOAS University

New Age Islam News Bureau

11 September 2023

Javed Akhtar. PTI file

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India

· Bilateral Trade, Defence Ties Feature In Talks Between Saudi Crown Prince Bin Salman And Prime Minister Modi

· Narendra Modi urges Justin Trudeau to cooperate with India in dealing with Khalistani threat in Canada

· 3,000 More To Be Arrested In 2nd Round Of Assam Child Marriage Crackdown: CM Himanta Biswa Sarma

· Humayun’s Tomb To Qutub Minar: A Day Out In Delhi For Delegate Partners

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South Asia

· Afghanistan’s Quest for Economic Recovery Amidst Challenges

· UN expresses concern over reduction in humanitarian aid to Afghanistan

· Afghan diplomat receives demarche for Chitral attack: Pakistani FM

· France respects Bangladesh's policy independence, PM says after talks with Macron

· Sagar-Runi murder: Probe report submission deadline extended for 103rd time

· Dhaka, Paris sign bilateral instruments on infrastructure, satellite system

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Arab World

· King Salman, Crown Prince order air bridge to provide aid to Morocco earthquake victims

· Crown Prince Mohammed hints at oil production rise in meeting with Japan’s PM

· Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman holds bilateral talks with world leaders on the sidelines of G20 summit in New Delhi

· Areeb Capital acquires property west of the Grand Mosque of Makkah for SR521 million

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Southeast Asia

· Malaysian Law On Revision Of Death Sentences And Life Imprisonment Comes Into Force On Sept 12

· Islamic Affairs Minister: Jakim To Develop New Halal Certification Module To Produce More Professionals In Halal Field

· Azalina: Prisoners Can Start Applying For Court To Review Death Sentences From Tomorrow

· PM Lee: Multilateralism hit by tensions between major powers, but Singapore has made progress with ‘like-minded friends’

· Tahfiz fire murder appeals: Court upholds jail sentence of one youth, acquittal of another

· Speaker's rejection on Zahid's DNAA motion sends out negative message, says MCA

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North America

· US, Allied Terrorist Groups Continue To Loot Syria’s Wealth, Strategic Resources: Damascus

· ‘US to support economic recovery in Pakistan’

· US, Vietnam agree to deepen ties as China worries grow

· Escaped US killer seen farther afield with new look: Police

· Canada’s Trudeau stuck in India after aircraft breaks down

· US president and ‘Stalin’ shake hands at G20

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Pakistan

· Caretaker Govt Plays Down Escalation In Acts Of Terror

· 'Govt launches massive crackdown against hoarders, smugglers across country'

· Death anniversary of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah being observed today

· Four killed in road accident in Zhob District

· No criminal should be spared: Sarfraz Bugti

· 7 terrorists killed in Chitral gun battle: ISPR

· No headway in talks on Torkham issue

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Mideast

· Hezbollah: Israel To Benefit From Hostilities In Palestinian Refugee Camp

· Iran Thwarted 400 Bombings Planned By Enemies: Intelligence Minister

· Iran Optimistic Prisoner Swap With US Will Happen In ‘Near Future’

· Iran To Host 150 Muslim Luminaries In 5th Mustafa Prize

· Iran very serious in confronting hostility of enemies: Leader

· Iranian Red Crescent ready to send aid to Morocco

· Islamist factions in a troubled Palestinian refugee camp in Lebanon say they will honor a cease-fire

· Iran welcomes any EU initiative on boosting mutual cooperation: Deputy FM

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Africa

· At Least 40 Killed In Airstrike On Market In Sudan's Khartoum, Volunteers Say

· Morocco Earthquake: Race Against Time To Find Survivors

· Nigeria Secret Police, DSS Arrests, Grills Central Bank Deputy Governor, Aishah Ahmad

· Nigeria ready to play vital role in G-20, Tinubu lobbies world leaders

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Europe

· UK police arrests two persons amid claims of spying for China

· Two dead, four injured in Hungary air show crash

· EU greenlights seizure of personal phones and cars from Russians

· Ukrainian pensioner jailed for social media ‘likes’

· Polish ambassador blasts Ukraine over memorials to WW2 Nazi collaborators

· France accused of planning ‘aggression’ against Niger

· West failed to ‘Ukrainize’ G20 – Lavrov

· Mosque holds ceremony to reward excelling students

Compiled by New Age Islam News Bureau

URL: https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/hate-patriotism-london-soas-javed-akhtar/d/130652

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'Where Hate Is Proof Of Patriotism': Javed Akhtar While Receiving Honorary Degree In London's SOAS University

Javed Akhtar. PTI file

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11.09.23

Amit Roy

Screenwriter and lyricist Javed Akhtar spoke of the power of poetry when he was given an honorary degree by the School of Oriental and African Studies in London.

Without mentioning any names, he said: “Is it just a coincidence that the fascist ideologies have not been able to produce one major poet? That is because poetry is the language of love, peace, justice and equality.”

In his acceptance speech, Akhtar began by saying: “We are living in the era of post-truth where we arrive at conclusions before searching for logic and reason.

“Where favourable laws for the powerful corporates are called effort for development.

“Where greed to take over oil resources of some places is called war on terrorism.

“Subjugating and stripping a woman of all her rights is called protecting her dignity and chastity.

“Where hating the minorities is the ultimate proof of one’s patriotism.”

Akhtar, who was accompanied by his wife and actor Shabana Azmi, went on: “We are living in a world where all the means of information and communication, one after another, are falling in the hands of the powerful.

“So in these times many people are discontented, unhappy and frustrated and that is why they are looking towards religion or its second line of defence — spiritualism and Sufism. One must accept they provide solace to an average person by making them look away from day-to-day realities. They give you painkillers to relieve your pain, not to heal the injury, they never challenge the status quo.

“On the other hand, poetry provides you with the music of language, pleasure and solace. But at the same time sensitises you to the pain and deprivation of the world. Take a look at the poets of the twentieth century, from one end of the world to another, you will see poets have turned their pens into swords, to battle the evil forces of the world. Be it Pablo Neruda of Chile, Mahmood Darvesh of Palestine, Breyten of South Africa, in India, Nazrul from Bengal and Faiz from Punjab (now in Pakistan).”

He posed the question: “Are such poets required today? The answer is a big ‘yes’.”

He added: “Actually with great pride I must tell you that in India, in the late thirties, there was a literary movement which lasted till the sixties. The Progressive Writers Movement was a pan-Indian movement in which the authors and

poets consciously passed a resolution undertaking the responsibility to write against colonialism, economic exploitation and encourage women empowerment.”

Akhtar concluded: “This movement created great literature but I have reservations about the word ‘responsibility’. Responsibility is most often an imposition, I believe it is not the duty but the right of every writer and poet to raise their voice.”

Akhtar said: “I hope that such patronage and felicitation of poets and writers will encourage them to fully claim their right to speak and write and challenge the status quo to usher in social change in the world.”

The citation for Akhtar’s honorary award of Doctor of Literature last week was read by Naresh Sharma, senior lecturer in Urdu and Hindi for SOAS’s School of Languages, Cultures and Linguistics, who said: “If you (want to) know anything about Bollywood cinema, and you have not heard about this guy, look up his back catalogue — you will be amazed!

“Beyond cinema, Javedsaab is a prominent Urdu poet with collections like Tarkash and Lava, writing verses of profound social relevance whilst pushing the boundaries of Urdu poetry.

“Javedsaab has also made significant contributions to politics and social activism, serving in the Rajya Sabha and championing the Copyright Amendment Act of 2012 — described as 'revolutionary', it secured royalties for lyricists and composers.

“Beyond this, he has been a leading voice in social justice campaigns, promoting gender equality, communal harmony, and opposing religious extremism.”

Source: telegraphindia.com

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https://www.telegraphindia.com/world/javed-akhtar-speaks-of-power-of-poetry-while-receiving-honorary-degree-in-soas-university-london/cid/1965255

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Sufism Plays Role In Developing Islamic Thoughts And Culture: Minister Bangladesh

Photo: BSS News

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10 Sep 2023

DHAKA, Sept 10, 2023 (BSS) - Education Minister Dr Dipu Moni today said Sufism has been playing profound impacts in developing of Islamic thoughts and cultures and is continuously playing role as a source of inspiration for people all over the world.

"Sufism is a mystical tradition of Islam that makes a path to self-realization. The purpose of human existence is to create a world of harmony that can be achieved through empathy and understanding," said Dr Dipu Moni.

The minister was addressing the opening ceremony of the 4th International Conference on Sufism titled "Sociology of Sufism, Full-Humanity and Divine Quest for Social Harmony" at Dhaka University's Nabab Nawab Ali Chowdhury Senate auditorium on DU campus.

DU Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Md Akhtaruzzaman gave the welcome remarks in the programme while Calcutta University history department professor Dr Amit Dey presented the keynote speech.

"Sufism has a long and rich history in the context of Bangladesh. It has played an important role in the culture and society of the country and has remained as a source of inspiration for thinkers and writers," said Dr Akhtaruzzaman.

The two-day long conference was organized by Darul Irfan Research Institute (DIRI) in collaboration with Dhaka University's Department of World Religions and Culture.

Chattogram BGMEA University of Fashion and Technology Prof. Dr. Mohammed Obaidul Karim, Sajjadanshin of Gauchia Ahmadiyya Manjil and founder of Hazrat Maulana Shah Sufi Syed Emdadul Haque Maizbhandari addressed as special guests.

DU Arts faculty dean Dr Abdul Bashir, Dhaka University's WRC department Chairman and ICSSPHDQSH 2023 convener Professor Dr. Mohammad Jahangir Alam and Darul Irfan Research Institute (Diri) Managing Trustee Syed Irfanul Haque also addressed on the occasion.

A total of 102 research articles by researchers of 66 universities from 16 countries including - Bangladesh, India, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Brazil, Sweden, Algeria, the United Kingdom, and the United States are being presented in the conference.

Besides, a photo exhibition on Sufism was also arranged on the premises of Senate building.

Source: bssnews.net

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https://www.bssnews.net/news/146737

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Saudi Arabia, India Sign 47 MoUs To Bolster Investment Landscape

September 11, 2023

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia and India have signed a bilateral agreement to bolster the investment climate in both countries, said a senior minister at the ongoing Indian-Saudi Investment Forum in New Delhi.

Speaking at the forum, Badr Al-Badr, the deputy minister of investor outreach at the Saudi Ministry of Investment, said: “The Ministry of Investment of Saudi Arabia and Invest India have signed a bilateral agreement to strengthen mutual investments endeavors, and give the comfort zone to investors and traders to do more business.”

The deputy minister further revealed that both nations signed 47 memorandums of understanding, including agreements between private and public sector undertakings.

“Saudi Arabia and India are the right fit for each other. Your demand is our supply, and our demand is your supply as well,” said Al-Badr.

Al-Badr further urged Indian investors and businessmen to invest in the Kingdom.

“You know Saudi Arabia as a long-term global superpower in traditional energy. But you now know that we developed into something much more than that. Our dynamic transformations have been created under the framework of Vision 2030,” said the deputy minister.

Echoing the sentiment, the Indian government felt the time was right to develop the bilateral relationship into an alliance of strength and economic power.

“The time is right, and the time is now. Forever, we knew the strength and power of Saudi Arabia, and you knew what India stood for. So far, we were thinking with our minds, and now, we are thinking with our minds and hearts,” said Invest India CEO Nivruti Rai at the event.

The ISIF in New Delhi seeks to explore investment opportunities across information and communications technology, entrepreneurship, chemicals, energy and advanced manufacturing sectors.

The event is taking place on the sidelines of the official state visit to India by Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman.

The crown prince also led the Saudi delegation for the G20 leaders’ summit this weekend to seek solutions to the world’s shared challenges.

The Indian-Saudi Investment Forum follows several events hosted by investment counterparts from countries such as Italy, Japan, Brazil and France.

The forum is part of initiatives designed to attract foreign direct investment to Saudi Arabia in line with its Vision 2030 and the National Investment Strategy, which seeks to unlock $3 trillion in investment opportunities.

Source: arabnews.com

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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2371251/business-economy

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Malaysian Law On Revision Of Death Sentences And Life Imprisonment Comes Into Force On Sept 12

Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Azalina Othman Said. Photo: Bernama

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11 Sep 2023

PUTRAJAYA: The Revision of Sentence of Death and Imprisonment for Natural Life (Temporary Jurisdiction of the Federal Court) Act 2023 or Act 847 will come into force on Tuesday (Sept 12).

This follows the commencement of the Abolition of the Mandatory Death Penalty Act 2023 (Act 846) on July 4.

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said said the Cabinet had on Aug 30 agreed with the mechanism of court proceedings in relation to the revision of mandatory death sentences and life imprisonment as proposed after an engagement with stakeholders.

"The implementation of the handling mechanism of court proceedings will allow all 1,020 prisoners who have been sentenced to mandatory death and life imprisonment, to file an application in court to review their respective sentences," she said in a statement on Monday (Sept 11).

She said considerations that take priority in the implementation mechanism will include factors like prisoner age, health status and sentence duration.

She said the unity government will – through this agreed mechanism – see that prisoners under mandatory death sentences who cannot afford counsel for the revision can seek legal representation through court-assigned lawyers.

"Those sentenced to life imprisonment can get (help) from the National Legal Aid Foundation," she added.

She said both forms of assistance reflected the government's stance of guaranteeing access to justice and maintaining the principle of equality for all Malaysians.

She said the enforcement of Act 847 also showed the government's commitment to promoting and protecting universal human rights, and showed that Malaysia held firmly to the principle of restorative justice.

"In fact, this also proves the concern of the unity government in giving a second chance to prisoners sentenced to death and life imprisonment to return to society and their families as well as (for) their survival as ordinary people," she said.

Source: thestar.com.my

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https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2023/09/11/law-on-revision-of-death-sentences-and-life-imprisonment-comes-into-force-on-sept-12

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US, Allied Terrorist Groups Continue To Loot Syria’s Wealth, Strategic Resources: Damascus

In this file picture, American military vehicles are seen in an oil-rich region in Syria’s northeastern province of Hasakah. (Photo via social media)

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10 September 2023

Syria says the United States and its allied Takfiri terrorist groups continue to violate the country's sovereignty and plunder its wealth and strategic natural resources.

Syrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates made the remark in two identical letters on Sunday, which were addressed to Secretary General of the United Nations António Guterres and the rotating President of the Security Council FeritHoxha.

Damascus demanded that the US administration be held accountable for looting the country's riches and be obliged to compensate for the unlawful act.

Syria also called for an end to aggressive practices and violations of international principles and the UN Charter by US occupation troops, who are illegally present in the northeastern part of the country and the strategic southeastern region of al-Tanf.

The letters further noted that Washington and its allied terrorists plunder Syria’s strategic assets in order to increase the strain of unilateral sanctions on Syrian people, prolong their suffering, and deprive them of their national assets.

The Syrian foreign ministry put the damage inflicted on the Syrian oil and mineral sectors as a result of "acts of aggression and sabotage" by US forces and their allied terrorists at $115.2 billion.

The Iraqi political faction affirmed that the presence of US forces in Syria is aimed at supporting terrorist groups there.

The ministry stated that 150,000 barrels of Syrian crude oil are being smuggled out of the country on a daily basis, adding that 59.9 million cubic meters of natural gas as well as 413 thousand tons of refined gas, worth $21.4 billion, have also been stolen.

Moreover, vandalism and theft of specialized equipment have resulted in damages amounting to $3.2 billion.

The US-led military coalition, purportedly formed to fight the Daesh Takfiri terrorist group, has also inflicted losses standing at $2.9 billion on Syria's oil and gas facilities, the letters highlighted.

The value of indirect losses to Syria’s economy amounts to $87.7 billion, which includes lost benefits from crude oil, natural gas and refined gas as a result of a sharp drop in their production, the letters read.

Iran advises the United States to take its military forces out of Syria.

The Syrian foreign ministry also called for an end to the illegal presence of US occupation forces and return of Syria’s energy reserves and natural resources to the Damascus government, so that it can improve the humanitarian and living conditions of Syrians.

The letters came on the same day that the US military used dozens of tankers to smuggle crude oil from Syria’s northeastern province of Hasakah to neighboring Iraq.

Syria’s official news agency, SANA, citing local sources in al-Ya'rubiyah town, reported that a convoy of 40 tankers left Syria through the illegal Mahmoudiya border crossing on Sunday, heading towards Iraq.

The sources added that another convoy of US occupation forces, consisting of 55 tankers, rumbled through the same border crossing hours later and entered Iraq.

The US military has stationed forces and equipment in northeastern Syria, with the Pentagon claiming the deployment is aimed at preventing the oil fields in the area from falling into the hands of Daesh terrorists.

Damascus, however, maintains that the unauthorized US deployment is aimed at plundering the country’s rich mineral resources.

Source: presstv.ir

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https://www.presstv.ir/Detail/2023/09/10/710617/US,-allied-terrorists-continue-to-loot-Syria%E2%80%99s-strategic-resources,-says-Damascus

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India

Bilateral trade, defence ties feature in talks between Saudi Crown Prince Bin Salman and Prime Minister Modi

Our Web Desk, 11.09.23

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday held wide-ranging talks with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, focussing on shoring up bilateral trade and defence ties.

Bin Salman is currently on a State visit to India following the end of the G20 Summit. Ahead of the talks, the Crown Prince was accorded a ceremonial welcome at the forecourt of the Rashtrapati Bhavan.

Here are the highlights of the discussion between Bin Salman and Modi.

PM holds bilateral talks with Saudi Crown Prince

India-Saudi Arabia partnership crucial for stability, welfare of region and world: PM Modi

We are adding new dimension to our ties in tune with changing times: PM Modi at India-Saudi Arabia Strategic Partnership Council meeting

Europe-Middle East-India infra project discussed

For India, Saudi Arabia is one of our most important strategic partners: PM Modi in talks with Saudi Crown Prince

Saudi Prince: We have to work together for humanity's benefit

Saudi Prince: Will work diligently for infra projects

'India-Saudi friendship much needed'

Saudi Prince: We're working on future opportunities

Source: telegraphindia.com

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https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/bilateral-trade-defence-ties-feature-in-talks-between-saudi-crown-prince-mohammed-bin-salman-and-prime-minister-narendra-modi/cid/1965384

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Narendra Modi urges Justin Trudeau to cooperate with India in dealing with Khalistani threat in Canada

11.09.23

Anita Joshua

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday urged Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to cooperate with India in dealing with the threat posed by Khalistani elements in Canada, stating that they posed a threat to the North American country too.

The Prime Minister underscored this during his bilateral meeting with Trudeau on the sidelines of the G20 Summit.

According to an external affairs ministry readout, Modi conveyed India’s strong concerns about continuing anti-India activities of extremist elements in Canada, pointing out that they are promoting secessionism and inciting violence against diplomats, damaging diplomatic premises, and threatening the Indian community in Canada and their places of worship.

“The nexus of such forces with organised crime, drug syndicates and human trafficking should be a concern for Canada as well. It is essential for the two countries to cooperate in dealing with such threats," the ministry said.

Source: telegraphindia.com

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https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/prime-minister-narendra-modi-takes-up-khalistani-threat-with-canadian-prime-minister-justin-trudeau/cid/1965239

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3,000 more to be arrested in 2nd round of Assam child marriage crackdown: CM Himanta Biswa Sarma

By SukritaBaruah

Guwahati | September 11, 2023

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Sunday announced that the state would launch the second round of its crackdown against child marriage within the next few days, during which he said another 3,000 people would be arrested.

In February this year, the Assam government had launched an unprecedented, punitive crackdown against child marriage in the state in which around 3,141 people had been arrested within a span of a month. Those arrested included men who had married underage girls as well as family members and religious leaders who had facilitated these marriages.

Addressing the National Executive of the BJP Mahila Morcha in Guwahati on Sunday, Sarma said, “Six months ago, I had gotten 5,000 people arrested for child marriage. I was waiting for G-20 [summit to conclude], and now, within 10 days, another 3,000 men will be arrested for child marriage,” he said.

“This (child marriage) needs to be stopped. There is a law made that this should not happen, but if this keeps happening time and again, then the daughters of a particular section will never be able to go ahead. They will always be the targets of oppression,” he added.

Earlier, Sarma had said that the second round of arrests would be specifically targeted at those who have participated in child marriage in the period after the last crackdown earlier this year.

An analysis of records of those arrested in the last crackdown showed that 62.24% of those arrested were Muslims, while the rest were Hindus and people from other communities.

A district-wise break-up of the arrests showed that the top five districts in terms of the number of arrests were Nagaon (224), Hojai (219), Dhubri (217), Baksa (179) and Barpeta (174). In Baksa, a Lower Assam district with a mixed population, Hindus and others constitute 62.64% of those arrested. The other four districts are Muslim-dominated.

“Today, some people say that I am anti-Muslim. But I think that by ending [triple] talaaq, polygamy and child marriage, the amount of work we’re doing for Muslims, no government of the Congress has ever done. We don’t see them as a vote back. We want that there be liberty and freedom for women from oppression,” Sarma said.

Since the last crackdown, Sarma has said on different occasions that the government was working towards “completely eradicating” child marriage in Assam by 2026.

Source: indianexpress.com

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https://indianexpress.com/article/north-east-india/assam/arrest-assam-child-marriage-crackdown-cm-himanta-biswa-sarma-8934571/

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Humayun’s Tomb to Qutub Minar: A day out in Delhi for delegate partners

by Saman Husain , Upasika Singhal

New Delhi : September 10, 2023

As G20 delegates and their spouses visited various monuments in the Capital starting Friday, Humayun’s Tomb seems to have left many, including Argentinian President Alberto Fernández, fascinated.

“The (Argentinian) President felt that the Humayun’s tomb is grander and prettier than even the Taj Mahal…The delegation was extremely fascinated by its beauty,” officials deployed on the field said.

On Saturday, Turkey’s first lady, Emine Erdogan, visited the tomb. She was escorted around the monument by an official from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), which had also allotted translators and tour guides to accompany the foreign dignitaries and explain to them the history of various monuments.

A Turkish delegate accompanying the first lady to the 16th-Century monument also drew its parallels with the Taj Mahal. “On a first look, it seems to be a smaller version of the Taj Mahal,” Mariway, who goes by only one name, told The Indian Express.

An ASI official accompanying the entourage told them that Humayun’s Tomb was used as a site to experiment with new architectural concepts, which was eventually perfected by the Taj Mahal.

Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Taj Mahal hotel in Central Delhi, Joe Biden, G20, G20 meet, G20 meeting, G20 Summit, G20 countries, India news, Indian express, Indian express India news, Indian express India The Ertiga car was to report at ITC Maurya, Saturday. PTI

Earlier, on Friday, delegates from the Netherlands, Nigeria, the UAE, and the European Council visited the monument.

The next stop for Erdogan was Qutub Minar, according to officials present at the Qutub Minar complex. Meanwhile, the Argentinian delegation visited the Lodhi Garden.

Two Saudi visitors, Ibrahim and Mohammad, who are accompanying Saudi Arabia’s Prime Minister and Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman, were present at the Qutub Minar Complex Saturday evening. When asked about the monument, they expressed praise and awe for it. “It has been a good experience to look at the Indian monuments,” Ibrahim said.

In media room, some keep to themselves, others exchange notes At the international media centre. (Express photo by TashiTobgyal)

Several monuments including the Qutub Minar have been beautified for the visit by international dignitaries.

“Every time a delegation visits the monuments, orders are given just half an hour prior to the visit and the whole premises is emptied out… no prior information on which delegation is visiting the monument is provided to us,” an official deployed on the field at the Humayun’s Tomb and Qutub Minar said.

Spouses of the delegates also visited the cottage emporium near Janpath where they were introduced to Indian art and handicrafts, sources said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomes US President Joe Biden at the Bharat Mandapam on Saturday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomes US President Joe Biden at the Bharat Mandapam on Saturday.

Later in the day, the Turkish first lady visited NanajiDeshmukh Plant Phenomics Centre. She posted on X, formerly Twitter: “We met with the spouses of the world leaders in New Delhi as a part of the G20 Summit in India. We had the opportunity to visit the NanajiDeshmukh Plant Phenomics Centre. At the centre dedicated to the study of plant characteristics, we have been provided with insights regarding plant species and the studies conducted to enhance agricultural yield and promote environmental sustainability. #G20India .”

The spouses of member countries also participated in a unique exhibition organised by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare at IARI Campus, Pusa, which featured a millet-focused live cooking session led by celebrity chefs. Besides, agricultural technology from prominent Indian startups was displayed. In addition, the guests interacted with Indian women agri-champions at a meet-up titled ‘Agri-Street’.

As the guests entered the premises, they were welcomed by two ‘millet rangolis’.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomes Germany’s Chancellor Olaf Scholz at the Bharat Mandapam on Saturday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomes Germany’s Chancellor Olaf Scholz at the Bharat Mandapam on Saturday.

At the live cooking session, in keeping with the theme International Year of Millets, celebrity chefs KunalKapur, Anahita Dhondy and Ajay Chopra along with culinary experts from the ITC Group, chef Kusha and chef Nikita, prepared a full-course meal with millets as the starring ingredient.

While chef Anahita created a Raw Banana Barnyard Millet Tikki topped with puffed Amaranth, chef Kunal prepared a Jowar-Mushroom Khichda. For dessert, chef Ajay rustled up Millet Thekua and Lemon Shrikhand Mille-feuille.

The guests received a token of appreciation in the form of a hamper with handwoven stoles crafted from silk sourced from the Sal forests of Chhattisgarh, a handcrafted bell metal figurine created using an ancient wax technique, and a Cheriyal painting.

Source: indianexpress.com

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https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/delhi/humayuns-tomb-to-qutub-minar-a-day-out-in-delhi-for-delegate-partners-8932580/

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South Asia

Afghanistan’s Quest for Economic Recovery Amidst Challenges

September 11, 2023

Noman Hossain

A few months ago, Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, Afghanistan’s acting Deputy Prime Minister for economic affairs, thanked the World Bank for its thorough evaluation of the nation’s economy. The international institution highlighted that Afghanistan managed to curtail inflation to 18.3% in 2022, which further subsided to 1.94% in March 2023, down from 3.5% the preceding month. As per the national records, exports between January and April 2023 reached USD 600 million, marking a growth of over 4% from the previous year, whereas imports in the period between January and July 2023 surged by 32% from the same timeframe in 2022.

The promising economic indicators, which include local food production enhancement, banking system improvements, and regularized salaries for public servants, led MawlawiHibatullah Akhundzada, the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA), to issue a decree on August 22. This decree mandates all ministries and relevant agencies to foster trade facilitation at ports, transit points, and highways, with a keen eye on the country’s commercial and economic interests. The decree further emphasized treating the private sector favorably and prioritizing domestic products to bolster local industry growth and self-sufficiency.

The Afghanistan Chamber of Commerce and Investment (ACCI) lauded this decree, with Chairman Mohammad Yunus Momand expressing optimism about future export increases. The ACCI also acknowledged the recent spike in transit transport and made pleas for tax reductions, improved monetary transfer processes abroad, and the promotion of Afghanistan’s clothing manufacturing.

Representatives from the Afghanistan Industry Association highlight the country’s self-sufficiency in 52 sectors, emphasizing the need to address the scarcity of land and energy to bolster local production.

Key economic reforms initiated by the “Taliban 2.0” have contributed to stabilization efforts. These include effective revenue collection, preventing multiple taxation by issuing tax receipts to transporters, and stringent measures against smuggling and corruption.

Despite initial economic downturns, stabilizing signs emerged, attributed partly to UN cash injections for humanitarian assistance, governmental restrictions on illicit imports, and sound macroeconomic management. Yet, the balance remains delicate. A considerable portion of Afghans still struggle to meet basic needs, relying heavily on humanitarian aid.

William Biard, an Afghanistan specialist at the United States Institute of Peace (USIP), commends the Taliban’s economic management but warns of potential future declines reminiscent of the chaos post the Taliban’s takeover in August 2021. The economic plunge was aggravated by factors such as the termination of financial aid, sanctions, and freezing of Afghanistan’s foreign exchange reserves.

Remarkably, despite these adversities, the Taliban’s economic governance has outperformed many expectations. A significant catalyst for this resilience is their inheritance of functional macroeconomic institutions. However, their lackluster attention to social service delivery and limited support for the needy are areas of concern, which now heavily depend on international humanitarian aid.

According to USIP’s analysis, Afghanistan’s fragile economy faces threats from declining humanitarian assistance and the effects of the Taliban’s opium poppy cultivation ban. These factors, combined with depleting household coping mechanisms, suggest a challenging winter ahead for Afghanistan.

To bolster economic recovery, USIP recommends sustained humanitarian support, efficient aid usage, and greater international cooperation focused on private sectors and the broader economy.

Source: khaama.com

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UN expresses concern over reduction in humanitarian aid to Afghanistan

September 10, 2023

Fidel Rahmati

The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) expresses concern about a budget shortage for providing humanitarian aid to Afghanistan. More than 3 6600 children under five years old in Afghanistan are deprived of essential aid packages.

On its social media platform on Sunday, OCHA emphasised that due to the budget shortage, access to primary healthcare services in Afghanistan has decreased by approximately 100,000 people.

OCHA provides statistics indicating that over 3 6600 children under five years old are deprived of humanitarian aid packages in Afghanistan due to insufficient funding.

Furthermore, the UN’s humanitarian aid coordination office said that 173 mobile nutrition and health centres in Afghanistan are at risk of closure due to budget constraints.

According to the agency’s report, out of 944,000 children under five years old, 1.8 million suffer from moderate to severe malnutrition, and 521,934 children under five face severe acute malnutrition, depriving them of essential healthcare services.

Previously, OCHA had reported that one million women and girls in Afghanistan have been deprived of humanitarian assistance.

This is happening when the increase in poverty and hunger, especially among women and children, has become a severe concern in Afghanistan.

Source: khaama.com

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Afghan diplomat receives demarche for Chitral attack: Pakistani FM

September 10, 2023

Fidel Rahmati

Pakistan’s Caretaker Foreign Minister, Jalil Abbas Jilani, has officially confirmed the issuance of a demarche to the Afghan charge d’affaires in Islamabad. This action comes in response to the recent attack on two military posts in the Lower Chitral district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa earlier this week.

During a press conference, in response to a question about whether the issue had been discussed with the interim Afghan government, it was reported that Pakistan registered a strong protest over the incident. They summoned the Afghan Charge d’Affaires (Cd’A) in Islamabad and handed him a protest note (demarche), as per Dawn.com.

Jilani described the incident as “very unfortunate” and emphasized that Pakistan takes the increase in terrorism seriously. He stated that Afghanistan is responsible for preventing attacks from their territory.

Additionally, he spoke about a “close-knit conversation” with Kabul on an Aaj News show to reduce terrorism and build peace between both nations. He said developments so far were “positive,” and the government was actively trying to bring the two regimes together on the same page.

“Previous governments have worked to some extent in this manner, and now we are developing the existing policy. This is a closed-room dialogue with the Afghan government, and only positive developments have occurred. However, elements from both sides of the border might impact the progress. However, we are moving in the right direction,” he said.

When asked about improving relations with India and Afghanistan, he emphasized that Pakistan is actively working towards peace with neighbouring countries.

“The Indian government needs to cooperate with us on various issues, especially concerning Kashmir. I believe that without active dialogues, which benefit both of us, there will be no concrete solution,” he said.

“Our end goal is to achieve peace, and I am sure they (India and Afghanistan) also want the same,” he concluded, highlighting a shared desire for peace as the ultimate objective in Pakistan’s approach towards its neighbouring countries.

Following the Chitral attack, Pakistani officials have shut down the Torkham crossing border. This move has left Afghan traders and their properties stranded on both sides, with a significant risk of loss. Despite Afghan officials’ calls for the border’s reopening, it remains closed, causing growing concern and uncertainty.

Source: khaama.com

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France respects Bangladesh's policy independence, PM says after talks with Macron

Sep 11, 2023

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today said France expressed its reverence and support to Bangladesh's sovereign policy independence, particularly in the context of the ongoing geopolitical instability and economic uncertainty.

"We both hope that this new strategic move between Bangladesh and France will play an effective role in establishing regional and global stability and peace," she said in a joint press briefing after holding bilateral talks at her office with visiting French President Emmanuel Macron.

She said the cornerstone of this new relationship is based on the constitutional and democratic continuity, development and good governance in Bangladesh over the past one and a half decade.

"The Government of France has expressed its satisfaction with the responsible and committed activities of the Government of Bangladesh in protecting the fundamental and human rights of its people," she said.

The prime minister said the confidence of the French government in the spectacular and consistent progress of the Bangladesh's economy was greatly appreciated as well.

She mentioned that France reiterated its commitment to stand by the people and the government of Bangladesh in the implementation of Vision-2041 by continuing privileges for Bangladesh to the trade facilitation of the European Union under GSP+ scheme.

"In our talks, we had detailed discussions aimed at advancing the bilateral relations between the two countries and we were able to reach some consensus," she said.

As leading and responsible resident powers in the Asia and Pacific, the prime minister said Bangladesh and France will act to ensure geopolitical stability of the region.

As a trusted development partner of Bangladesh, Hasina said France has assured Bangladesh of its continued cooperation in infrastructure development.

"Besides, they expressed their interest in providing advanced and specialised technical assistance in building our strategic security infrastructure," the PM said.

She mentioned that Bangladesh welcomed France's leadership in combating the negative effects of climate change and lauded President Macron's call for establishing a sustainable fund.

In addition, she said, there have been effective discussions with France on educational, cultural and linguistic exchanges in the meeting.

Sheikh Hasina, on behalf of the people of Bangladesh, expressed sincere thanks to the French government and the people of France under the leadership of President Macron.

A joint statement on this visit will be issued shortly and further details will be communicated from the responsible levels of the governments of the two countries, she added.

"Today is a historic day in the bilateral relationship between France and Bangladesh that has been evolving for more than five decades," Hasina said.

The prime minister said that the friendly ties that her father, the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman initiated in 1972 have reached a new dimension.

Source: thedailystar.net

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Sagar-Runi murder: Probe report submission deadline extended for 103rd time

Sep 11, 2023

A Dhaka court today extended till October 15 the deadline for submitting the probe report of a case filed over the murders of journalist couple SagarSarowar and MeherunRuni in February 2012.

This is the 103rd extension of the submission deadline.

Dhaka Metropolitan Magistrate MdRashidul Alam passed the order after Rab Additional Superintendent of Police KhondokerMdShafiqul Alam, also the investigation officer of the case, failed to submit the report today, court sources said.

On August 7 this year, the same court asked Rab to submit the probe report by today.

Earlier, two separate courts expressed dissatisfaction over the probe and the investigators' failure to unearth the motive behind the murders and arrest the real culprits.

Sagar, news editor at private TV channel Maasranga, and his wife Runi, senior reporter at ATN Bangla, were killed in the early hours of February 11, 2012, in their rented flat in the capital's West Razabazar.

Their only son MahirSarowarMegh, then 5, was home at the time. Nousher Ali Roman, Runi's brother, filed a case with Sher-e-Bangla Police Station the following day.

Source: thedailystar.net

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Dhaka, Paris sign bilateral instruments on infrastructure, satellite system

Sep 11, 2023

Dhaka and Paris today signed two bilateral instruments to enhance cooperation in different fields including infrastructure and satellite, officials said.

The documents were inked in presence of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and France President Emmanuel Macron at Karobi Hall of the Prime Minister's Office.

The agreements are:

1. A Credit Facility Agreement between Economic Relations Division (ERD), Bangladesh and the France Development Agency (AFD), France on "Improving Urban Governance and Infrastructure Program"

2. Letter of Intent (LOI) on Cooperation between Bangladesh Satellite Company Limited (BSCL) and Airbus Defence and Space SAS, France related to Bangabandhu-2 Earth Observation Satellite System.

Earlier in the day, Hasina and Macron held talks to explore new areas of cooperation between the two countries.

Macron, the first French president to visit Bangladesh in 33 years, arrived here in Dhaka on Sunday evening after attending the G20 summit in New Delhi. The French leader is scheduled to leave Dhaka at 2:00pm today.

Francois Mitterrand was the last French president to visit Bangladesh on 22-24 February, 1990.

Total trade between Bangladesh and France soared from 210M€ to 4.9 billion€ today with France being the 5th country for exports.

French companies are now involved in various sectors including engineering, energy, aerospace and water sectors.

Source: thedailystar.net

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Arab World

King Salman, Crown Prince order air bridge to provide aid to Morocco earthquake victims

September 10, 2023

RIYADH: Under directives issued on Sunday by King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief) will operate an air bridge to provide relief aid to Morocco following a deadly earthquake in the country, Saudi Press Agency reported.

Dr. Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al-Rabeeah confirmed that the assistance provided comes out of the keenness of the king and crown prince to stand by and support those affected by Friday's 6.8 magnitude earthquake.

The disaster has killed more than 2,100 people — a number that is expected to rise.

Al-Rabeeah said a Saudi search and rescue team from the General Directorate of Civil Defense and teams from the Saudi Red Crescent Authority, led by KSrelief, will be sent to participate in relief and humanitarian work for those affected and rescue any survivors.

He added that the gesture was “an extension of the humanitarian role played by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in standing with those affected and in need around the world in various crises and tribulations,” SPA added.

Source: arabnews.com

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Crown Prince Mohammed hints at oil production rise in meeting with Japan’s PM

September 11, 2023

TOKYO: Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman told Japan’s Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Saturday that Saudi Arabia may consider an increase in oil production in response to global demand, according to a statement from Japan’s Foreign Ministry.

The two leaders met in India on the sidelines of the G20 Summit.

During the meeting, Kishida said he hopes Saudi Arabia would continue to play a leading role in stabilizing the international crude oil market.

He added that Japan and Saudi Arabia were seeking to further strengthen ties, including on the clean energy “Lighthouse Initiative.” To support this initiative, Japan’s Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi recently visited the Kingdom.

The crown prince said he was pleased with the outcome of the meeting he had with Kishida during the latter’s visit to Saudi Arabia in July and hoped cooperation would be further strengthened.

Source: arabnews.com

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Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman holds bilateral talks with world leaders on the sidelines of G20 summit in New Delhi

September 10, 2023

NEW DELHI: On the sidelines of the G20 leaders’ summit in the Indian capital New Delhi, which drew to a close on Sunday, Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman held bilateral talks with several world leaders and their representatives.

The crown prince was in the city to lead the Kingdom’s delegation at the summit before embarking on an official state visit at the invitation of India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which will take in trade talks and a business forum.

The crown prince met Japan’s Prime Minister Kishida Fumio on Saturday, the parties discussing developments in Saudi-Japanese relations. The nations have enjoyed long-standing cooperation on energy, including hydrogen power.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman held bilateral meetings in New Delhi with a number of world leaders, including Japanese PM Kishida Fumio. (SPA)

High-ranking officials from both governments attended the talks, including the Kingdom’s Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan; National Security Adviser Dr. Musaed Al-Aiban; Minister of Commerce Dr. Majid Al-Qasabi; Minister of Investment Khalid Al-Falih; and Minister of Finance Mohammed Al-Jadaan.

The crown prince held talks with Sheikh Hasina, the prime minister of Bangladesh, on Sunday morning, during which he reiterated the Kingdom’s commitment to bolstering relations with the South Asian nation, according to the Saudi Press Agency.

Source: arabnews.com

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Areeb Capital acquires property west of the Grand Mosque of Makkah for SR521 million

September 10, 2023

Areeb Capital has successfully acquired a property within the Jabal Omar project in Makkah for an impressive sum of SR521 million.

This acquisition was facilitated by one of the company’s real estate funds, overseeing the entire acquisition process.

Areeb Capital is a rapidly expanding group headquartered in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, with Khalid Al-Jabri serving as the chief executive officer.

The company specializes in innovative investment offerings across Saudi Arabia, Europe, and North Africa.

The property in question is strategically situated approximately 300 meters from the western side of Al-Masjid Al-Haram, also known as “the Grand Mosque of Makkah.”

This mosque holds immense significance as a direction of prayer for millions of Muslims.

Covering an area of 3,065 square meters, the acquired property is designated for the construction of a mixed-use tower, including residential apartments.

The planned tower will boast a total built-up area exceeding 59,668 square meters, with a saleable area of 36,921 square meters.

This substantial acquisition underscores Areeb Capital’s optimistic outlook for the broader Saudi market and, more specifically, the real estate sector in Makkah.

The company’s move aligns seamlessly with the forward-thinking vision of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman and the visionary Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed Bin Salman.

Areeb Capital’s press release also emphasizes its strong commitment to encouraging foreign investors to participate in Makkah’s real estate sector, in compliance with relevant regulations and laws.

This initiative aims to contribute to the realization of the goals of Vision 2030, the ambitious blueprint for making the Saudi financial market appealing to both domestic and international investors.

By doing so, Areeb Capital will play a pivotal role in driving economic growth and diversifying income sources.

Furthermore, the press release outlines Areeb Capital’s intention to make a portion of this investment available through the “Cadaa” platform, set to launch during the current quarter of 2023.

“Cadaa” is a specialized investment platform designed to provide seamless and reliable access to investments for all segments of the investment community.

It’s worth noting that “Areeb Capital” holds a valid license (number 30-08119) from the Capital Market Authority (CMA) in Saudi Arabia. — SG

Source: saudigazette.com.sa

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Southeast Asia

Law on revision of death penalty, life imprisonment comes into force Sept 12

September 11, 2023

A total of 1,020 prisoners who have been sentenced to mandatory death and life imprisonment can now file an application in court to review their respective sentences.

Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Azalina Othman Said said this follows the Revision of Sentence of Death and Imprisonment for Natural Life (Temporary Jurisdiction of the Federal Court) Act 2023 (Act 847) which will come into force tomorrow (Sept 12).

This follows the enforcement of the Abolition of Mandatory Death Penalty Act 2023 (Act 846) on July 4, 2023.

Azalina said that the Cabinet, on Aug 30, agreed with the mechanism of court proceedings in relation to the revision of mandatory death sentences and life imprisonment as proposed after an engagement with stakeholders.

They include the Attorney General's Chambers, the Federal Court chief registrar's office, the Prisons Department, the National Legal Aid Foundation (YBGK), the Malaysian Bar Council, the Sabah Law Society, the Advocates Association of Sarawak, and the Prime Minister's Department's legal affairs division.

"Priority to the implementation of this mechanism includes factors such as the prisoner’s age, level of health, and the period of imprisonment, as well as other considerations," she said.

She said that one of the agreed mechanisms was that for prisoners who were sentenced to death and were unable to appoint a lawyer to represent them in the sentence review process, they could seek legal services through court-assigned lawyers.

For prisoners sentenced to life imprisonment, they can get legal services from YBGK, she said.

"These two legal aid services offered reflect the government's priority and stance in ensuring justice is given to all Malaysians," she said.

She added that the enforcement of Act 847 through the mechanism agreed upon by the Cabinet reflected the government's high commitment to promoting and protecting universal human rights.

"This proves that the principle of restorative justice in the criminal justice system in Malaysia is always maintained.

"This also proves the concern of the Unity Government to give a second chance to prisoners sentenced to death and life imprisonment to return to society and family and continue their survival as ordinary citizens," she said.

Source: malaysianow.com

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Islamic affairs minister: Jakim to develop new halal certification module to produce more professionals in halal field

11 Sep 2023

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 11 — The Malaysian Islamic Development Department (Jakim) is developing a new International Halal Executive Module to produce more professionals in the Halal field.

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk MohdNa’im Mokhtar said he was confident that through the renewed module, the country would be able to ‘export’ more professionals in the Halal field to other countries in an effort to develop the Halal industry internationally.

“This is an endorsement to the country because the new developed module can certainly provide added value to new talents, both locally and internationally,” he told reporters after attending a dinner in conjunction with the 13th Convocation of the Halal Certificate Presentation, here last night.

The three-day Halal Convocation which started on Saturday, gathered participants from 84 countries while Jakim presented certificates to participants from 47 countries who were involved.

Meanwhile, Jakim director-general Datuk HakimahMohdYusoff said the department was convinced that the initiative to develop a new module would enhance the Halal certification process in other countries.

“The current module is only a cooperation with the local Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) with factories in other countries,” she said. — Bernama

Source: malaymail.com

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Azalina: Prisoners can start applying for court to review death sentences from tomorrow onwards as new law takes effect

By Ida Lim

11 Sep 2023

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 11 — Prisoners in Malaysia who had been sentenced to death or to life imprisonment can start applying for the courts to review their sentences from tomorrow onwards, as a new law enabling such reviews by the Federal Court will take effect from tomorrow, minister Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said said today.

Azalina, who is a minister in the Prime Minister’s Department in charge of law and institutional reform, said the federal government will enforce the new law — known as the Revision of Sentence of Death and Imprisonment for Natural Life (Temporary Jurisdiction of the Federal Court) Act 2023 or as Act 847 — on September 12 (tomorrow).

This follows the enforcement of another new law — the Abolition of Mandatory Death Penalty Act 2023 — on July 4 this year.

Azalina said the Cabinet had on August 30 this year agreed with the mechanism to conduct court proceedings in relation to the revision of mandatory death penalties and life imprisonment which had been proposed following engagement sessions with stakeholders.

She listed the stakeholders as including the Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC), the Chief Registrar’s Office of the Federal Court (PKPM), the Malaysia Prisons Department, the National Legal Aid Foundation (YBGK), the Malaysian Bar, the Sabah Law Society, the Advocates Association of Sarawak (AAS) and the Legal Affairs Division in the Prime Minister’s Department (BHEUU JPM).

“The implementation of this mechanism to conduct court proceedings will enable all 1,020 prisoners who had been imposed the mandatory death sentence and life imprisonment, to file applications in court to make revisions on their respective sentences.

“Priority for the implementation of this mechanism covers factors such as prisoners’ age, health levels and length of prisoner’s imprisonment period and other considerations,” she said in a statement today.

To ensure access to justice and to uphold the principle of equality, the federal government — through the agreed mechanism — has agreed that prisoners sentenced to death and who cannot afford to appoint a lawyer to represent them in the revision of their death sentence can obtain legal services through a court-assigned counsel, she said.

As for prisoners who are facing life imprisonment, they can seek legal services from YBGK, she said.

Azalina said both these legal aid services which are being offered reflect the government’s priority and stance in ensuring justice is given to all Malaysians, and that the enforcement of Act 847 — which enables the revision of death and life imprisonment sentences — through the Cabinet-agreed mechanism also reflects the government’s high commitment in promoting and protecting universal fundamental human rights.

“This proves that the principle of restorative justice in Malaysia’s criminal justice system is always upheld,” she said.

“This also proves the Unity Government’s care in giving a second chance to prisoners who were sentenced to the death penalty and life imprisonment to return to society and their family and continue their life as ordinary citizens,” she said.

Both Act 847 and the Abolition of Mandatory Death Penalty Act 2023 received royal assent on June 9 and were gazetted on June 16.

Under Act 847, the Federal Court cannot review the conviction of anyone who was given the mandatory death sentence, but will have the power to retrospectively review the mandatory death sentences handed down — upon conviction for offences such as murder, drug trafficking, firearm crimes — before Act 847 came into force and even if their pardon application was previously rejected.

“Upon reviewing the application, the Federal Court shall affirm or substitute the sentence of the applicant in accordance with the Penal Code, the Arms Act 1960, the Firearms (Increased Penalties) Act 1971, the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 and the Kidnapping Act 1961, as amended by the Abolition of Mandatory Death Penalty Act 2023,” Act 847 states.

Under Act 847, death row prisoners are allowed to file only once a written application to the Federal Court within 90 days of this law coming into effect to seek a revision of their death sentence, with the Federal Court empowered to grant an extension of the timeline for the filing of the revision application if there are good reasons to do so.

Similarly, those who have been sentenced with life imprisonment can only apply once in writing within 90 days of the law coming into effect to the Federal Court, and with the Federal Court also able to extend the deadline for filing if there are good reasons.

Under Act 847, the Federal Court is to substitute the life sentence of prisoners who applied for a revision of their sentence with imprisonment between 30 years to 40 years.

Source: malaymail.com

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PM Lee: Multilateralism hit by tensions between major powers, but Singapore has made progress with ‘like-minded friends’

11 Sep 2023

NEW DELHI, Sept 11 — While tensions between major powers have affected multilateral cooperation, what Singapore has done is to work with “like-minded friends”, and there has been progress as a result, said Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong yesterday.

He noted that multilateralism is based on a mutual desire to achieve win-win outcomes.

“But if there’s not the trust or if there’s not the goodwill, or in some cases where you’re in conflict with one another, ‘I don’t want win-win, I want win-lose’. And so that makes it very difficult to do multilateral cooperation,” he said to the media at the end of his three-day working visit to New Delhi, India, where he attended the Group of 20 (G20) Leaders’ Summit.

But despite the current environment, smaller groups of “like-minded” people can still come together to make progress “on a second-best basis”.

“Not everyone is there, but those of us who are all participating, we can work together. And I think that is happening,” said Lee.

On Singapore’s part, while it “would much prefer” to have a big framework that works for everyone, it acknowledges how things are in the current global situation.

“So in this environment, we do our best to make friends and in the bilaterals... to see what we can work out,” he said.

Lee cited the developments between Singapore and the European Union (EU) and the United Kingdom as examples of how progress has been made in the current environment.

Earlier on Sunday, Lee met with the president of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen. They reafffirmed warm relations between Singapore and the EU, and welcomed the recent launch of negotiations for the EU-Singapore Digital Trade Agreement, said a spokesperson from Singapore’s Prime Minister’s Office.

Both leaders also “exchanged views on the global geopolitical outlook and reaffirmed the importance of upholding the rules-based multilateral order”.

Lee said that in such bilateral discussions, on top of the interest in finding specific areas of cooperation, there is also interest in “exchanging views, understanding their perspectives on our region, and they wanting our perspective on what’s happening in the world”.

“And I think that these are very valuable contacts,” he said.

Singapore is not a member of the grouping but has been regularly invited to the annual summit and its related meetings. Lee attended the summit at the invitation of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in India’s capacity as G20 president for 2023.

Over the weekend, Lee spoke to an audience of global leaders about tackling climate change, as well as the challenges facing multilateralism and how to overcome them.

He also held bilateral meetings with various leaders on the sidelines of the summit. They include UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, with whom Lee issued a joint declaration on Saturday upgrading bilateral relations between the two countries to a “strategic relationship”.

G20 communique: Principles laid out, but substance takes time

The G20 leaders adopted a consensus declaration at the end of the first day of the summit on Saturday. It covered a broad range of issues including the war in Ukraine, but refrained from condemning Russia for the conflict.

Commenting on the declaration, Lee said that many areas of desired cooperation were “comprehensively covered”, be it on artificial intelligence, the reform of the United Nations or multilateral development.

“We also put in principles, how to address them, but the specifics of it, the actual substance of the cooperation, I think that progress takes a lot of time in this environment,” he said.

Distrust between nations partly explains why certain deals cannot be achieved, said Lee.

“But it’s also because ‘I don’t want you to have a successful result. And so I would rather there not be an outcome than there would be an outcome’. There is some of this dynamic in play,” he added.

Given this context, Lee said G20 did well to have a communique and to have a meeting where views over substantive issues could be ventilated.

Notably absent from this year’s summit were Chinese President Xi Jinping — the first time that he has skipped G20 — and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Chinese premier Li Qiang and Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov attended in their stead respectively.

On China — which currently has tense relations with the United States — Lee noted how US President Joe Biden said “it would be better” if Xi had attended the summit.

“Nevertheless, the discussions... proceeded. Premier Li Qiang was here. So as far as engagements are concerned, I think the discussions proceeded,” he said.

“I do not know the reasons why President Xi was not able to come or President Putin, but obviously it would have been better if they were here.”

The Prime Minister said that as the world environment becomes more complex, global leaders will continue to find opportunities to cooperate on.

And while not every collaboration would yield great results, progress will still be made, said Lee.

India has held the rotating presidency of the G20 since Dec 1 when it took over from Indonesia. On Sunday, Modi handed over the ceremonial gavel of the presidency to Brazil President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, who will assume presidency for 2024. — TODAY

Source: malaymail.com

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Tahfiz fire murder appeals: Court upholds jail sentence of one youth, acquittal of another

11 Sep 2023

TEH ATHIRA YUSOF

PUTRAJAYA: The Court of Appeal has upheld the prison sentence on the youth found guilty of killing 23 people in a fire at the Darul Quran Ittifaqiyah Tahfiz Centre in 2017.

It also upheld the acquittal of another youth charged in the same incident.

The three-judge panel chaired by Justice Datuk Abu Bakar Jais who sat together with Justices Datuk CheMohdRuzima Ghazali and Datuk See Mee Chun made both decisions unanimously on Monday (Sept 11).

On Aug 17, 2020, the first teenager, now 22, was convicted by the High Court for the murders and ordered to be detained at the pleasure of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.

At the same time, the High Court acquitted and discharged the other teenager, also aged 22 now, for the same offence without calling him to enter his defence.

The convicted youth subsequently filed an appeal against the conviction while the prosecution appealed against the acquittal of the second accused.

Justice CheMohdRuzima, in reading the judgment, said the High Court’s decision must be upheld as it did not err in its decision to convict and sentence the accused.

Ruzima said the panel agreed with the High Court findings on closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage which decided the evidence presented by the prosecution was strong.

The CCTV footage from four different locations, namely a nearby Muslim Consumers Association of Malaysia (PPIM) office, a petrol station, snooker centre, and the appellant’s neighbour proved that he (the appellant) was involved in causing the fire intentionally.

“It (the CCTV) only points to one direction which is that PKK1 (the appellant) climbed over the back fence of the tahfiz school together with an unidentified individual to start the fire, causing 23 deaths.

“With that the appellant’s appeal is rejected since there was no argument presented by the defence regarding the sentence (jail) issued by the High Court, so the decision is upheld,” he said.

On the Court of Appeal's decision on the appeal by the prosecution, Justice CheMohdRuzima said there was no reason to change the High Court's acquittal of the co-accused.

The High Court verdict found it was difficult to ascertain that the co-accused was present at the scene during the particular time of the fire based on testimonies of prosecution witnesses and CCTV footage, he said.

“The decision... to release and acquit PKK2 (the co-accused) of all 23 charges at the end of the prosecution case is correct in terms of facts and law.

“Therefore, the prosecutor’s appeal is without merit and should be rejected, the decision of the High Court is upheld,” he said.

On May 11 this year, in appealing against the acquittal, deputy public prosecutor How May Ling argued that the fire must have been caused by more than one perpetrator because it was impossible for a teenager to lift two gas cylinders weighing 28kg at one go.

How said one gas cylinder was placed vertically and the other horizontally in front of a door before petrol was poured and an active lighter was placed there.

Haijan Omar, counsel for both the accused, argued that there were no witnesses who testified that the convicted youth had set the school on fire, adding that the prosecution only relied on circumstantial evidence.

The prosecution called a total of 71 witnesses, while six defence witnesses were called to testify throughout the trial which began on May 30, 2018.

According to the original charges, both teenagers, together with another unidentified individual, were accused of murdering and causing the death of 23 people – 21 students and two teachers – at the tahfizcentre at JalanKeramatHujung, Kampung Datuk Keramat, WangsaMaju here, between 4.15am and 6.45am on Sept 14, 2017.

They were charged under Section 302 of the Penal Code for murder, read together with Section 34, which provides for the mandatory death penalty upon conviction.

However, Section 97(1) of the Children's Act 2001 provides that offenders under the age of 18 cannot be subjected to the death penalty, which can be replaced with a prison sentence as long as the Yang di-Pertuan Agong approves, in accordance with Section 97(2) of the same Act.

Source: thestar.com.my

Please click the following URL to read the full text of the original

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2023/09/11/tahfiz-fire-murder-appeals-court-upholds-jail-sentence-of-one-youth-acquittal-of-another

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Speaker's rejection on Zahid's DNAA motion sends out negative message, says MCA

Olivia Miwil

September 11, 2023

KOTA KINABALU: Dewan Rakyat's rejection over the motion to discuss the Attorney-General's (AG) explanation on the discharge of Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi's corruption case will send out a negative message to the people.

Institute of Strategic Analysis and Policy Research (Insap) deputy chairman Datuk Dr Pamela Yong said it does not bode well for the government to not address the people's concerns head on.

"In view that Ahmad Zahid is also the deputy prime minister, she is most concerned with the decision of the speaker today and the negative message and impact that comes with it.

"And this will most definitely affect the people's confidence towards this unity government.

"Therefore, it really is prudent and imperative for Ahmad Zahid and Umno to come forward to explain and convince the people otherwise," she said in a statement.

Yong, who is also MCA deputy secretary-general, said that most people are hiding behind the excuse that it was the court's decision to drop Ahmad Zahid's case.

She added that till today, there has yet to be a clear and convincing explanation with regards to the dismissal of Ahmad Zahid.

"We are all ignoring the white elephant in the room, which is the repercussions and the negative impact it has on Umno and Barisan Nasional as a whole, with MCA, MIC, and PBRS being the BN component parties, all included.

"And in the absence of this, the controversy and the negative repercussions regarding his dismissal continues to snowball, stripping further the trust deficit of the people towards BN dragging the component parties- MCA included- down with it."

On Sept 4, Ahmad Zahid was freed from all 47 corruption charges for misappropriating funds belonging to Yayasan Akal Budi (YAB).

Source: nst.com.my

Please click the following URL to read the full text of the original

https://www.nst.com.my/news/politics/2023/09/953827/speakers-rejection-zahids-dnaa-motion-sends-out-negative-message-says

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North America

US, allied terrorist groups continue to loot Syria’s wealth, strategic resources: Damascus