It is not the mountain we conquer but ourselves. --Sir Edmund Hillary

Upcoming Islamic Finance and Business Events in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

15-16 December 2009: Seminar on Islamic Wealth Management and Financial Planning

19-20 January 2010: Seminar on Product Development & Marketing for Islamic Financial Services

9-10 February 2010: Workshop on Islamic Structured Products: Sukuk and others

23-24 February 2010: Workshop on Risk Management for Islamic Banks

8-9 March 2010: Conference on Doing Business In China: Exploring the World's Biggest Market

13-14 April 2010: The Third Global Islamic Finance Conference (GIFC2010)

For more info, please visit: www.globalpro.com.my

Eid Mubarak - 1 Syawal 1430

I would like to wish Eid Mubarak to all Muslims....we say "Selamat Hari Raya Aidil Fitri" in Malaysia. The Great Day of Eid is celebrated today 20 October 2009.

This is the Day of Victory for the faithfuls.

It's time for celebration but don't forget to follow through what we learn from the 'University of Ramadan'. Piousness and piety are not only for 1 month....it is a lifelong duty.

It's also time for forgiveness and reconciliation.

Therefore I seek forgiveness from everyone...my sincere apology, brothers and sisters.

Look forward for your continuous support.

Ramadan Kareem to All Muslims

I would like to wish Ramadan Kareem to all Muslim all over the world. May this Ramadan bring us closer to our Creator and we are able to sustain the devotion and momentum in the next 11 months.

Laylatul Qadr will be a great gift and privilege...better than a thousand months. Seek it in last 10 days.

Don't forget our obligation of paying zakat-ul-fitr.

May Allah bless you. Happy fasting.

Islamic Wealth Management Conference 2009 : 17-18 Aug '09 - KL

Event: Islamic Wealth Management Conference 2009

Date: 17-18 August 2009

Venue: Grand Millennium Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Organiser: GlobalPro Consulting

Fee: please refer brochure

Download brochure

لَّا إِلَـٰهَ إِلَّا أَنتَ سُبْحَانَكَ إِنِّي كُنتُ مِنَ الظَّالِمِينَ

Friday Prayer with His Royal Highness The King of Malaysia

Today I got a very rare opportunity to meet His Royal Highness the King of Malaysia, Tengku Mizan Zainal Abidin ("Yang DiPertuan Agong" as we call it in Malaysia)

I happened to peform the weekly Friday prayer at Masjid Al Najihin in Kuala Lumpur, where His Royal Highness visited today. He would perform Friday prayers at different mosque every week in order to meet the people (or "rakyat") from various locations in the country.

In case you are wondering, in the picture, I am wearing blue shirt and white prayer cap. The King is wearing the Malay traditional costume (with black cap). Long Life to the King! May Allah bless you and protect our wonderful and peaceful country.

Dua (Supplications) by Sheikh Mishary Rashid al Afasy Part 1

Dua (Supplications) by Sheikh Mishary Rashid al Afasy Part 2

A speaker at Asian Economic Conference 2009: “Has Asia’s Time Come To Shine & To Be Positioned As a Global Leader?

I was given the opportunity to present the Islamic finance solutions to global economic crisis at the Asian Economic Conference 2009 held at Hotel Istana Kuala Lumpur on 18-19 May 2009 organised by Asian World Summit.

I feel so humbled to share the stage with world-class speakers which include New York Times bestselling author John Assaraf (USA), a former finance minister (Japan) , a former UN representative (Korea), a university professor (Hong Kong) and a top economist (Spain)...the giants in their fields of expertise.

Thanks Asian World Summit for inviting me to represent Malaysia in this conference.

A special month of May

May 2009 could be very special month for me. Not only it is a my birth month, it could be a major turning point in my consulting and training business, insyaAllah (God's willing).

Many positive indications pointing towards doing major consulting, advisory and training projects in Islamic banking, finance, business and property (Islamic city project) in 4 countries (Malaysia, Singapore, Brunei and an African country) starting from May 2009. I will provide consultation and training in the setting up of a new Islamic bank in a South East Asian country and consultation and training for a central bank of an African country on Islamic banking system.

It will be a very busy month in May. Come what may....may Allah help me.

It is time for me to deliver and honour my obligations....It is time to fly....

(picture above: Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) - The world's best airport)

3-Day Executive Overview on Islamic Banking and Finance

GlobalPro Consulting is organising a 3-Day Executive Overview on Islamic Banking and Finance to be held on 5-7 May 2009 at the Legend Hotel, Kuala Lumpur.

Learn the fundamental, principles and the operations of Islamic banking and finance from the industry's experts and practitioners. It is also an excellent platform for networking and exchange of ideas and solutions.

Even the tallest towers rise from the ground, and it must be built on a solid foundation. This executive overview is a preparation for a solid foundation on Islamic banking and finance towards building a towering Islamic banking and finance system and industry.

I will be one of the speakers in the seminar.

To register for the event please visit the the organiser's web site: www.globalpro.com.my

Please register early to ensure a seat. If you can afford the fee, don't worry, just contact me directly for a special consideration.

Speaking from 'the Sky' on Islamic Economic System

Today I was at Angkasapuri (literally means building in the sky) in Kuala Lumpur for a recording of a weekly radio program on Islamic Economic System.

Angkasapuri is the main governmental building for Malaysia's Ministry of Information and it is also the headquarters for Radio Television Malaysia (RTM). Displayed prominently on the building (which can be seen from miles away) is the national slogan "Wawasan 2020", means "Vision 2020", indicating the year Malaysia intended to be a truly developed country.

InsyaAllah I will be appearing weekly on RTM radio programs as a guest speaker on various topics related to Islamic economy, finance and management (in Bahasa Malaysia and English).

Vacancies for Marketing Specialists at GlobalPro Consulting - Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Several vacancies for Marketing Specialists are available at GlobalPro Consulting based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Posts: Managers, Assistant Managers

Candidate criteria: 5P's
1) Passionate on marketing
2) Proficient in English
3) Proactive and creative
4) Pleasant personality
5) Positive attitudes

The posts are opened to Malaysian citizens and residents only.

Please send your CV to sanusi.my@gmail.com. Thank you.

Interview with ARD German Television - Development of Islamic Finance in Malaysia and the World

Today I was interviewed by ARD German Television on the development of Islamic finance in Malaysia and the world. The station is doing a story on Islamic Banking for a programme called Weltspiegel (mirror of the world). It’s a reknown tv-magazine in Germany featuring topics and stories from abroad for the German audience. ARD is the biggest network in Germany and comparable to BBC in UK.

Thanks ARD (particularly Mr Phillipp Abresch, Niki and the team) for giving me the opportunity to explain about Islamic finance to German audience.

A Guest at Malaysian-German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MGCC)

Today I was invited to meet visiting German businessmen and consultants at the Malaysian-German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MGCC).

My firm, GlobalPro Consulting is forming a smart partnership with a German consulting firm, Pro Tempre International Consultants GMBH. We are exchanging expertise and networking in providing international consulting works.

Thank you Mr Wolfram Lobnitz (Geschaftsfuhrender Gesellschafter...I think it means Managing Partner) of Pro Tempre for the trust in my consulting firm, GlobalPro Consulting.

Coincidently, on the same day (Friday, 20 March) I received a call from ARD German Television requesting to interview me on Islamic Banking for a programme called Weltspiegel. It’s a reknown tv-magazine in Germany featuring topics and stories from abroad for the German audience. ARD is the biggest network in Germany and comparable to BBC in England. They are coming to KL for the special assignment.

I feel humbled by the German interest in my expertise (or my company services) and in getting my views through the interviews. Unfortunately I don't speak German except for knowing famous German brands like BMW, Mercedes Benz and Audi.

Solving our problems - prayer in distress

65:2 ....And for those who fear Allah, He (ever) prepares a way out,

65:3 And He provides for him from (sources) he never could imagine. And if any one puts his trust in Allah, sufficient is (Allah) for him. For Allah will surely accomplish his purpose: verily, for all things has Allah appointed a due proportion.

Quran-Surah At-Talaq: 2-3






In the above ayats (verses), we are told that we can get out of problems and troubles through Taqwa (fear of God) and Tawakal (trust in God).

During this very challenging economic conditions, we should recite more of the above verse as a prayer and most importantly to follow what we are told to do by the Almighty Allah that is to have Taqwa and Tawakal.

In this situation, observing taqwa and tawakal would mean that - first of all - we should not panic; we should remain steadfast and content.

We are also encouraged to recite Lahaula wala quwata illa Billah (There is no power and strength except in Allah)....no matter how clever we think we are, only He can actually make it happen.

To treat the verses just as a wall decoration will not do any help...actions are required.

Believe it and do it.

The Best of All Time: Who is the most influential and successful person in history?

Prophet Muhammad is the most influential and successful person in History.

What some famous Non-Muslims said about Prophet Muhammad?

Michael H. Hart of USA who wrote "The 100 most influential persons in history" and placed Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of God be upon him) as number one, on the top of the list.

"My choice of Muhammad to lead the best of the world's most influential persons may surprise some readers and may be questioned by others, but he was the only man in history who was supremely successful on both the religious and secular levels.

His complete biography has been authenticated and circulated amongst scholars around the world starting while he was still alive and continuing up until today. One of the first examples we quote from is from the Encyclopedia Britannica, as it confirms:

(Regarding Muhammad) "... a mass of detail in the early sources shows that he was an honest and upright man who had gained the respect and loyalty of others who were likewise honest and upright men." [Vol. 12]


Reverend R. Bosworth-Smith wrote in "Mohammed & Mohammedanism" in 1946:

"Head of the state as well as the Church, he was Caesar and Pope in one; but, he was pope without the pope's claims, and Caesar without the legions of Caesar, without a standing army, without a bodyguard, without a palace, without a fixed revenue. If ever any man had the right to say that he ruled by a Right Divine, it was Mohammad, for he had all the power without instruments and without its support. He cared not for dressing of power. The simplicity of his private life was in keeping with his public life."

George Bernard Shaw:

"I believe that if a man like him were to assume the dictatorship of the modern world, he would succeed in solving the problems in a way that would bring the much needed peace and happiness. Europe is beginning to be enamored of the creed of Muhammad. In the next century it may go further in recognizing the utility of that creed in solving its problems." (A Collection of writing of some of the eminent scholars, 1935).

Lamartine's tribute to the Prophet:

"If greatness of purpose, smallness of means and astounding results are the three criteria of human genius, who could claim to compare any great man in modern history with Muhammad?" (Histoire de la Turquie, 1855).

Gandhi:

"I wanted to know the best of one who holds today undisputed sway over the hearts of millions of mankind... I became more than convinced that it was not the sword that won a place for Islam in those days in the scheme of life. It was the rigid simplicity, the utter self-effacement of the Prophet, the scrupulous regard for his pledges, his intense devotion to his friends and followers, his intrepidity, his fearlessness, his absolute trust in God and in his own mission. These and not the sword carried everything before them and surmounted every obstacle. When I closed the 2nd volume (of the Prophet's biography), I was sorry there was not more for me to read of the great life."

English author Thomas Carlyle in his 'Heroes and Hero Worship', was simply amazed:

"How one man single handedly, could weld warring tribes and wandering Bedouins into a most powerful and civilized nation in less than two decades."

EWolfgang Goethe, perhaps the greatest European poet ever, wrote about Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him. He said:

"He is a prophet and not a poet and therefore his Quran is to be seen as Divine Law and not as a book of a human being, made for education or entertainment." [Noten und Abhandlungen zum Weststlichen Dvan, WA I, 7, 32]

Muhammad, peace be upon him, was nothing more or less than a human being, but he was a man with a noble mission, which was to unite humanity on the worship of ONE and ONLY ONE GOD and to teach them the way to honest and upright living based on the commands of God. He always described himself as, 'A Servant and Messenger of God' and so indeed every action of his proclaimed to be.

A-Z Qualities of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him)

Prophet Mohammad (peace be upon him) is the greatest man in history. Volumes and encyclopedias and even libraries have been dedicated to presenting the picture of this great man.

Considering the qualities and teachings of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) testified to by so many people (Muslims and non-Muslims) throughout history and even testified to by Allah Himself, we conclude the following to be only a partial list of the qualities, morals and virtues of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

A. Articulate - Muhammad (peace be upon him) although unable to read or write throughout his entire life, was able to express himself in clear and decisive terms and in the best of classical Arabic language.

B. Brave - Muhammad (peace be upon him) was praised for his courage and bravery during and after his life by his followers and opponents alike. He has always been an inspiration to Muslims and even non-Muslims throughout the centuries.

C. Courteous - Muhammad (peace be upon him) always put other people's feelings ahead of his own and was the most courteous of hosts and the best of guests wherever he went.

D. Dedicated - Muhammad (peace be upon him) was determined to carry out his mission and present the message with which he had been sent, to the entire world.

E. Eloquent - Muhammad (peace be upon him) claimed he was not a poet, yet he could express himself in the most concise manner, using the least amount of words in a most classic manner. His words are still quoted by millions of Muslims and non-Muslims today everywhere.

F. Friendly - Muhammad (peace be upon him) was noted for being the most friendly and considerate of all who knew him.

G. Generous - Muhammad (peace be upon him) was most generous with his possessions and never wanted to keep anything if there was anyone who was in need. This was true of gold, silver, animals and even food and drink.

H. Hospitable - Muhammad (peace be upon him) was indeed, noted to be the most gracious of hosts and taught his companions and followers to be the best of hosts to all their guests as a part of their religion.

I. Intelligent - Muhammad (peace be upon him) has been proclaimed by many commentators who have studied his life and actions, to be of the most intelligent of all men who ever lived.

J. Just - Muhammad (peace be upon him) was most fair and just in all of his dealings. Whether in business or in giving judgment in any matter, he practiced justice on all levels.

K. Kindness - Muhammad (peace be upon him) was kind and considerate to everyone he met. He tired his best to present the message of worship of the Creator instead of the creations to all he met in the kindest fashion and most considerate manner.

L. Loving - Muhammad (peace be upon him) was the most loving toward Allah and to his family members, friends, companions and even those who did not accept his message but remained peaceful to him and his followers.

M. Messenger of Mercy - Muhammad (peace be upon him) is proclaimed in the Quran by Allah, as being sent to the entire world as the "Mercy to all mankind and jinn."

N. Noble - Muhammad (peace be upon him) was the most noble and distinguished of all men. Everyone knew of his fine character and honorable background.

O. "Oneness" - Muhammad (peace be upon him) is most famous for his proclamation of the "Oneness of Allah" or monotheism (called "Tawhid" in Arabic).

P. Patient - Muhammad (peace be upon him) was the most steadfast and forbearing in all of the trials and tests he lived through.

Q. Quiet - Muhammad (peace be upon him) was often very quiet and never was heard to be boastful, loud or obnoxious on any occasion.

R. Resourceful - Muhammad (peace be upon him) was most clever and resourceful in handling even the most serious of difficulties and problems confronting him and his companions.

S. Straightforward - Muhammad (peace be upon him) was known by all to speak directly to a subject and not twist things around in his speech. He also used a minimal amount of verbiage and considered excessive talk to be vain and unproductive.

T. Tactful - Muhammad (peace be upon him) was the most delicate and tactful in his dealings with the people. He never scratched the dignity of someone, even though unbelievers often insulted him and maligned him.

U. Unmatched - Muhammad (peace be upon him) is known throughout the world today as the man who most influenced the lives of so many people during his own time and for all times to come.

A non-Muslim writer, Michael H. Hart of USA who wrote "The 100 Most Influential Persons in History" placed Prophet Muhammad as number one, on the top of the list. He wrote, "My choice of Muhammad to lead the best of the world's most influential persons may surprise some readers and may be questioned by others, but he was the only man in history who was supremely successful on both the religious and secular levels".


V. Valiant - Muhammad (peace be upon him) gave new meaning to the word valiant and he was always most honorable in all of his affairs, whether defending the rights of orphans or preserving the honor of widows or fighting for those in distress. He was not intimidated when outnumbered in battle, nor did he turn away from his duties in protecting and defending the truth and freedom.

W. Wali - The Arabic word, “wali” (plural is owliya) is a bit difficult to bring into English without some explanation. Some say the word means; “protectors” and others have said “darlings” or “those in whom you put full trust and confide everything” . While still others simply offered the word “friends”. The meaning might be closer to the English word, “ally.” This is perhaps, a lot closer in meaning because when a person gives their pledge of allegiance to someone he or she is taking that person as a “wally” and this is called giving “bay’ah” in Arabic. The prophet (peace be upon him) was the living example of the most trustworthy and loyal of all human beings who ever lived on this earth. Anything mentioned to him in confidence would never be divulged nor shared with others. And when he was put in place of authority or “wali” over the people, they found him to be the best of those to be trusted.

X. "X" - Muhammad (peace be upon him) could neither read nor write, not even his own name. In today's world he would have to use an "X" to "sign" a document. He used a signet ring worn on the little finger of his right hand to seal any documents or letters sent to the leaders of other lands.

Y. Yielding - Muhammad (peace be upon him) would yield his own desires and forego his own ideas in favor of whatever Allah directed him to do. While considering opinions from his followers, he often accepted their ideas over his own, preferring to yield in favor of others as much as possible.

Z. Zealous - Muhammad (peace be upon him) was the most zealous of all the prophets of Allah, in carrying out his mission of "Peace through the submission to the Will of God." He truly was the most enthusiastic in regard to delivering the message with which he had been entrusted by Allah; the message of "Laa elaha illa-allah, Muhammadar-Rasululah" (There is none worthy of worship, except Allah and Muhammad is the messenger of Allah).

(Muhammad - Prophet of Islam)

Happy Maulidur Rasul - Prophet Muhammad's Birthday

Muslims throughout the world commemorate the birth Prophet Muhammad. The birthday falls on the twelfth day of the month of Rabiulawal, the third month of the Muslim calendar. This is purely a religious festival and is marked as a public holiday an many countries including Malaysia (this year, 9 March 2009).

Prophet Muhammad’s birthday is celebrated by Muslims throughout the nation, with special prayers that are recited at the mosque. Many gather for processions and religious rallies to mark this auspicious day. Feasts are also organised by individuals or by religious and social institutions for the poor and needy.

Let's ponder upon Prophet Muhammad's Farewell Sermon:

This sermon was delivered by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) on the Ninth Day of Dhul Hijjah 10 A.H. in the 'Uranah valley of Mount Arafat' (in Mecca).

After praising, and thanking Allah he said:

"O People, lend me an attentive ear, for I know not whether after this year, I shall ever be amongst you again. Therefore listen to what I am saying to you very carefully and take these words to those who could not be present here today.

O People, just as you regard this month, this day, this city as Sacred, so regard the life and property of every Muslim as a sacred trust. Return the goods entrusted to you to their rightful owners. Hurt no one so that no one may hurt you. Remember that you will indeed meet your Lord, and that He will indeed reckon your deeds. ALLAH has forbidden you to take usury (interest), therefore all interest obligation shall henceforth be waived. Your capital, however, is yours to keep. You will neither inflict nor suffer any inequity. Allah has Judged that there shall be no interest and that all the interest due to Abbas ibn 'Abd'al Muttalib (Prophet's uncle) shall henceforth be waived...

Beware of Satan, for the safety of your religion. He has lost all hope that he will ever be able to lead you astray in big things, so beware of following him in small things.

O People, it is true that you have certain rights with regard to your women, but they also have rights over you. Remember that you have taken them as your wives only under Allah's trust and with His permission. If they abide by your right then to them belongs the right to be fed and clothed in kindness. Do treat your women well and be kind to them for they are your partners and committed helpers. And it is your right that they do not make friends with any one of whom you do not approve, as well as never to be unchaste.

O People, listen to me in earnest, worship Allah, say your five daily prayers (Salah), fast during the month of Ramadan, and give your wealth in Zakat. Perform Hajj if you can afford to.

All mankind is from Adam and Eve, an Arab has no superiority over a non-Arab nor a non-Arab has any superiority over an Arab; also a white has no superiority over black nor a black has any superiority over white except by piety and good action. Learn that every Muslim is a brother to every Muslim and that the Muslims constitute one brotherhood. Nothing shall be legitimate to a Muslim which belongs to a fellow Muslim unless it was given freely and willingly. Do not, therefore, do injustice to yourselves.

Remember, one day you will appear before Allah and answer your deeds. So beware, do not stray from the path of righteousness after I am gone.

O People, no prophet or apostle will come after me and no new faith will be born. Reason well, therefore, O People, and understand words which I convey to you. I leave behind me two things, the QURAN and my example, the SUNNAH and if you follow these you will never go astray.

All those who listen to me shall pass on my words to others and those to others again; and may the last ones understand my words better than those who listen to me directly. Be my witness, O Allah, that I have conveyed your message to your people".

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(Bahasa Melayu)

Khutbah Terakhir Nabi Muhamamd s.a.w

Khutbah ini disampaikan pada 9hb Zulhijjah Tahun 10 Hijri di Lembah Uranah, Gunung Arafah

Wahai manusia, dengarlah baik-baik apa yang hendak kukatakan, Aku tidak mengetahui apakah aku dapat bertemu lagi dengan kamu semua selepas tahun ini. Oleh itu dengarlah dengan teliti kata-kataku ini dan sampaikanlah ia kepada orang-orang yang tidak dapat hadir di sini pada hari ini.

Wahai manusia, sepertimana kamu menganggap bulan ini dan Kota ini sebagai suci, maka anggaplah jiwa dan harta setiap orang Muslim sebagai amanah suci. Kembalikan harta yang diamanahkan kepada kamu kepada pemiliknya yang berhak. Janganlah kamu sakiti sesiapapun agar orang lain tidak menyakiti kami lagi. Ingatlah bahawa sesungguhnya, kamu akan menemui Tuhan kamu dan Dia pasti membuat perhitungan di atas segala amalan kamu. Allah telah mengharamkan riba, oleh itu segala urusan yang melibatkan riba dibatalkan sekarang.

Berwaspadalah terhadap syaitan demi keselamatan agama kamu. Dia telah berputus asa untuk menyesatkan kamu dalam perkara-perkara besar, maka berjaga-jagalah supaya kamu tidak mengikuti dalam perkara-perkara kecil.

Wahai Manusia Sebagaimana kamu mempunyai hak atas isteri kamu mereka juga mempunyai hak di atas kamu. Sekiranya mereka menyempurnakan hak mereka keatas kamu, maka mereka, juga berhak untuk diberi makan dan pakaian dalam Susana kasih sayang. Layanilah wanita-wanita kamu dengan baik dan berlemah-lembutlah terhadap mereka kerana sesungguhnya mereka adalah teman dan pembantu kamu yang setia. Dan hak kamu atas mereka ialah mereka sama sekali tidak boleh memasukkan orang yang kamu tidak sukai ke dalam rumah kamu dan dilarang melakukan zina.

Wahai Manusia, dengarlah bersungguh-sungguh kata-kataku ini, sembahlah Allah, dirikanlah sembahyang lima kali sehari, berpuasalah di bulan Ramadhan, dan tunaikankanlah zakat dari harta kekayaan kamu. Kerjakanlah Ibadah Haji sekiranya kamu mampu. Ketahui bahawa setiap Muslim adalah saudara kepada Muslim yang lain. Kamu semua adalah sama; tidak seorang pun yang lebih mulia dari yang lainnya kecuali dalam Taqwa dan beramal saleh.

Ingatlah, bahawa, kamu akan menghadap Allah pada suatu hari untuk dipertanggung jawabkan di atas segala apa yang telah kamu kerjakan. Oleh itu Awasilah agar jangan sekali-kali kamu terkeluar dari landasan kebenaran selepas ketiadaanku.

Wahai Manusia, tidak ada lagi Nabi atau Rasul yang akan datang selepasku dan tidak akan ada lain agama baru. Oleh itu wahai manusia, nilailah dengan betul dan fahamilah kata-kataku yang telah aku sampaikan kepada kamu. Sesungguhnya aku tinggalkan kepada kamu dua perkara yang sekiranya kamu berpegang teguh dan mengikuti kedua-duanya, necaya kamu tidak akan tersesat selama-lamanya. Itulah ALQURAN dan SUNNAHKU.

Hendaklah orang-orang yang mendengar ucapanku, menyampaikan pula kepada orang lain. Semoga yang terakhir lebih memahami kata-kataku dari mereka yang terus mendengar dariku. Saksikanlah Ya Allah, bahawasanya telah aku sampaikan risalahMu kepada hamba-hambaMU.

The Global Shariah and Legal Aspect of Islamic Finance

(Palace of Justice, Putrajaya, Malaysia)

My consulting firm, GlobalPro Consulting is organising The Global Shariah and Legal Aspects of Islamic Finance on 7-8 April 2009. The conference will be held at the Ballroom, Legend Hotel Kuala Lumpur.

Various fundamental and contemporary issues pertaining to Shariah and legal aspects of Islamic finance will be discussed by Shariah and legal experts. Suggestions or resolutions from this conference will be submitted to relevant authority for further action.

The response is very encouraging with participation of Islamic bankers, legal practitioners, Syariah advisors, university lecturers, religious officers, reps from financial authorities from Malaysia and other countries. We are expecting 100 participants at this conference.

Welcome to Malaysia, the world's leading centre for Islamic finance.

We hope to do justice to you!

For further info please visit the event page.

The First Speaker in the Empowering The Mind Seminar - Faculty of Education, UiTM, Shah Alam

On 2 March 2009, I delivered a lecture on Positive Mental Attitude and The Success Principles in the Empowering the Mind Seminar held at Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM)'s main campus in Shah Alam (capital city of Selangor, Malaysia). Professor, lecturers, counselors and students are in the audience.

I have been delivering lectures on Islamic finance for 17 years and this is actually my very first time delivering a lecture in a university on motivational / empowering the mind topic. I take up the challenge and really make a thorough preparation for this presentation...as I don't want to disappoint those who trusted me to deliver.

With working experience in various organisations for 18 years and reading/researching some 14 books (my own collection) I prepared 50-page multimedia presentation (plus several video clips). The most important reference is the Book on the top of the third picture above...the Holy Quran. Many verses in Holy Quran encourage mankind to think!

I really enjoy the 2 hours lecture in this well organised seminar. Hopefully they get motivated for a long time to come. Now I am ready to speak on motivational / empowering the mind / success principles topics in 1 or 2-day programs (in-house training or public workshop). I am writing a book related to these topics (a million copies to be sold...hopefully not a million photocopies...the "xerox culture" is killing the writers).

I will upload some video clips and photos of the event when they become available.

Note: UiTM is the largest university in Malaysia with 42,500 students.

Thank You Mr Yerlan from Kazakhstan

Having lunch with Mr Yerlan from Kazahstan (left of picture). On the right are the speaker and guest from Maybank IB (Investment Bank). Mr Yerlan is in KL to attend the Global Sukuk Conference organised by my firm, GlobalPro Consulting on 25-26 February 2009.

He invited me to speak in Astana Islamic Finance Conference on 10-11 March 209. I have to politely decline the invitation due to my busy schedule (next time insyaAllah). I was told the weather in Astana is minus 30 degree (- 30), just the opposite of the weather in Kuala Lumpur (+30). You have to be mentally and physically prepared to face that kind of cold weather.

Kazakhstan is formerly a part of Russian Federation with some 60% Muslim population. Mr Yerlan also informed me they are descendants of Khublai Khan....the warrior...and often mistaken to be a Chinese or Japanese. A Malaysian politician passing by our table even spoke in Malay to him thinking he is a local Chinese! I can understand why he was so puzzled and asked the politician to speak in English or Russian to him.

Special Thanks to Mr Ahmad Salleh Hariri from Islamic Development Bank (IDB)

Special thanks to Mr Ahmad Salleh Hariri, Islamic Development Bank (IDB)'s Regional Director for giving a special presentation at an Islamic Finance conference organised by my firm, GlobalPro Consulting on 23-24 February 2009 in Kuala Lumpur.

After meeting me, he went for a meeting with my namesake Tan Sri Sanusi Junid, former President of International Islamic University Malaysia and former Chief Minister of Kedah state (also my home state). He is known for introducing many creative ideas....

Thanks Brother Ahmad Salleh Hariri for your kind support.

17 Success Principles - The Common Traits of Successful People

17 Success Principles - The Common Traits of Successful People

Then which of the Blessings of your Lord will you both (jinns and men) deny?

Then which of the Blessings of your Lord will you both (jinns and men) deny?

(Quran: Surah Ar Rahman)

Executive Overview on Islamic Banking and Finance - Kuala Lumpur - Feb '09

I will be the Keynote Speaker in a seminar entitled "The Executive Overview on Islamic Banking and Finance" to be held at Seri Pacific Hotel, Kuala Lumpur on 23-24 February 2009.

The respond is very encouraging....the Central Bank of Malaysia (Bank Negara Malaysia) alone is sending 10 delegates to the seminar plus delegates from other financial and non-financial institutions.

For the record, Bank Negara Malaysia (Malaysia's No. 1 financial regulator and world's best central bank) is the strongest supporter to all Islamic finance events organised by my firm, GlobalPro Consulting... that's a big of encouragement for my team. We are doing our small contribution in promoting Islamic finance and also to promote Malaysia as No.1 International Islamic Financial Centre.

Malaysia Boleh! (Malaysia Can Do!).

To join the seminar please visit this site.

Masjid Ubudiah in The Silver State of Perak, Malaysia

This is Masjid Ubudiah located in the royal town of Kuala Kangsar in the Malaysian state of Perak (the silver state).

The mosque is certainly ranked as one of most beautiful mosques in the world. Its beauty and tranquility has attracted worshippers and visitors from all over the world.

A mosque is symbol of unity for Muslims regardless race, nationality or political affiliation.

It should be a source of inspiration for people to live in peace and harmony.....that's what Islam stands for literally and spiritually.

Al-Muallim (The Teacher) - my first YouTube video to reach 10,000 views

This is the video that I've created 7 months ago (in June 2008). It is the first among my YouTube videos to reach 10,000 views. The video is for Sami Yusuf's song "Al-Muallim" (The Teacher).

Let's raise the bar a bit higher...next milestone, 1,000,000 views.

Most importantly let's understand the message from this beautiful song and the moral of the story. It is about our beloved Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessing be upon him)...The Last Prophet for mankind...The Teacher of teachers.

Here are the lyrics for Sami Yusuf's song "Al-Mu'allim" (The Teacher).

Al-Mu'allim

We once had a Teacher
The Teacher of teachers,
He changed the world for the better
And made us better creatures,
Oh Allah we've shamed ourselves
We've strayed from Al-Mu'allim,
Surely we've wronged ourselves
What will we say in front him?
Oh Mu'allim...

Chorus
He was Muhammad salla Allahu 'alayhi wa sallam,
Muhammad, mercy upon Mankind,
He was Muhammad salla Allahu 'alayhi wa sallam,
Muhammad, mercy upon Mankind,
Teacher of all Mankind.
Abal Qasim [one of the names of the Prophet]
Ya Habibi ya Muhammad
(My beloved O Muhammad)
Ya Shafi'i ya Muhammad
(My intercessor O Muhammad)
Khayru khalqillahi Muhammad
(The best of Allah's creation is Muhammad)
Ya Mustafa ya Imamal Mursalina
(O Chosen One, O Imam of the Messengers)
Ya Mustafa ya Shafi'al 'Alamina
(O Chosen One, O intercessor of the worlds)
He prayed while others slept
While others ate he'd fast,
While they would laugh he wept
Until he breathed his last,
His only wish was for us to be
Among the ones who prosper,
Ya Mu'allim peace be upon you,
Truly you are our Teacher,
Oh Mu'allim..

Chorus
Ya Habibi ya Muhammad
(My beloved O Muhammad)
Ya Shafi'i ya Muhammad
(My intercessor O Muhammad)
Ya Rasuli ya Muhammad
(O My Messenger O Muhammad)
Ya Bashiri ya Muhammad
(O bearer of good news O Muhammad)
Ya Nadhiri ya Muhammad
(O warner O Muhammad)
'Ishqu Qalbi ya Muhammad
(The love of my heart O Muhammad)
Nuru 'Ayni ya Muhammad
(Light of my eye O Muhammad)
He taught us to be just and kind
And to feed the poor and hungry,
Help the wayfarer and the orphan child
And to not be cruel and miserly,
His speech was soft and gentle,
Like a mother stroking her child,
His mercy and compassion,
Were most radiant when he smiled

Chorus
Abal Qasim [one of the names of the Prophet]
Ya Habibi ya Muhammad
(My beloved O Muhammad)
Ya Shafi'i ya Muhammad
(My intercessor O Muhammad)
Khayru khalqillahi Muhammad
(The best of Allah's creation is Muhammad)
Ya Mustafa Ya Imamal Mursalina
(O Chosen One O Imam of the Messengers)
Ya Mustafa ya Shafi'al 'Alamina
(O Chosen One O intercessor of the worlds)

Lyrics and Composition: Sami Yusuf
Producer: Sami Yusuf

The First speaker in Actuarial Science and Risk Management Seminar (ASRiM2009) at Islamic Science University of Malaysia (USIM)

(USIM Administration Building)

(receiving token of appreciation from Prof. Dr Jalani Sukaimi,
Dean of Faculty of Science and Technology)

(a section of the audience...smile!)

(nice auditorium....excellent facilities)

Today, 12 January 2009 I delivered the first paper (as the first speaker) at the Actuarial Science and Risk Management (ASRiM) Seminar organised by Faculty of Science and Technology at Islamic Science University of Malaysia (USIM).

The theme of the seminar is "Actuarial Role in Islamic Finance". Some 300 participants from several universities and financial institutions attended the seminar. Nice to see such a big crowd.

The title of my paper is "Islamic Financial Planning and Wealth Management". After my presentation, Prof. Dr. Jeyaraj Vadiveloo from University of Connecticut, USA presented his paper on Integrated Financial Planning followed by a presentation by an actuarist.

Last 2 days (on the weekend) I taught Islamic Finance at University of Technology Malaysia (UTM)....9am -5pm for 2 days.

I just enjoy teaching and passing on "useful and beneficial knowledge" and keep on seeking new knowledge.

The Genocide Goes On - Gaza Needs Your Help NOW!

The world must act now to stop the war of terror, impoverishment and humiliation waged by Israel against the people of Gaza.

Gaza need your voice now....Gaza need your help now!

When the world ask for ceasefire:

The Palestinians say YES, THANKS!
But the Israelis say NO, TANKS!

and the Israeli tanks rumble on and keep shooting at civilian targets like terrorists from hell.

Are you still wondering who are the real terrorists? and who sponsor these terrorists?

A little boy shot in the head
Just another kid sent out to get some bread
Not the first murder nor the last
Again and again a repetition of the past
Since the very first day same story
Young ones, old ones, some glory
How can it be, has the whole world turned blind?

I will be on air on Suara Islam (Voice of Islam)

I will be on air on Suara Islam (Voice of Islam) from January '09, appearing about 4 times a month to talk on Islamic economic system. Suara Islam (Voice of Islam) is a radio channel under Radio Television Malaysia.

I have appeared on television programs in Malaysia (RTM) and Brunei (RTB).

Happy Islamic New Year (1st Muharram-1430 Hijrah)

I wish all Muslim readers, a very happy, prosperous and peaceful Islamic New Year (1st Muharram 1430 Hijrah).

Let's make self assessment and reflection (muhasabah) on past one year we lived through in order to improve ourselves in the coming years. Tomorrow should be better than today and next year should be better than this year...continuous improvement is required on all Muslims.

Let's live on the true spirit of Hijrah and Jihad....and keep on the right path.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “I have left two things among you, as long as you hold fast to them, you will never go astray. They are the Book of Allah (Quran) and the Sunnah of His Messenger”

The 1st Muharram 1430 (known as Maal Hijrah/Awal Muharram in Malaysia) falls on 29 December 2008. It is a national celebration here (with syariah-compliant events).

Peace to all...Salam!

Lectures at Islamic Science University of Malaysia (USIM) and University of Technology Malaysia (UTM)

In January 2009, I will be delivering lecture on Islamic Financial Planning and Wealth Management at Islamic Science University of Malaysia (USIM) and lecture on Islamic Banking at University of Technology Malaysia (UTM).

Lately, I received many invitations from universities from across the country (alhamdulillah). Hope to share my knowledge and experience with students and lecturers at ivory towers (universities) in Malaysia and other countries.

Global Sukuk Conference 2009 - Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

My firm, GlobalPro Consulting is organising Global Sukuk Conference on 19-20 January 2009 at Seri Pacific Hotel, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

For more information please visit www.globalpro.com.my

What is sukuk? Read my Islamic finance blog: http://gifc.blogspot.com

Visitor from Korea at GlobalPro Consulting office

On 23 December 2008, I received visitor from Seoul, Korea, Mr Robert JS Ryu, Director of Overseas Operations Division of Shariah Finance Co., Ltd, Korea. (In this photo, he is standing to my left).

We are going to have some form of cooperation in the promotion of Shariah (Islamic) finance in Korea and beyond. I have been invited to deliver lectures and training sessions in Korea, God's willing.

Thank you Mr Robert for visiting our office.

Islamic Financial Services: Development, Prospect & Challenges

Today I delivered a paper entitled "Islamic Financial Services: Development, Prospect & Challenges" at the Conference on Marketing & Product Development for Islamic Financial Services held at the Grand Millennium Hotel Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

The conference was attended by bankers, Islamic bankers, takaful operators, business /product development executives, IT consultants, marketing managers and representatives from Bank Negara Malaysia (central bank of Malaysia).

Visitors from Denmark and Lithuania at GlobalPro Consulting office

On 11 December 2008, I received visitors from Denmark and Lithuania, they are Mr Lars Ohnemus (Founder of BPT Asset Management, Denmark), standing tall on the right and Mr Algis Vaitiekunas (Fund Manager and Managing Director of the Baltic's for BPT, Lithuania), standing tall on the left.

Thank you for visiting our humble office.

My humble office by the lake garden...Queen's Lake, Kuala Lumpur

This is my humble office located by a lake garden of Tasik Permaisuri (Queen's Lake), Kuala Lumpur. The beautiful man-made lake garden is really well-maintained and well-supervised by Kuala Lumpur City Hall. Mounted park rangers could be seen moving around on their stallions making sure everything is fine.

Why it was named the Queen's Lake? The lake garden was opened by Her Royal Highness the Queen of Malaysia in 1989.

From the windows of of my office, you can enjoy the breathtaking view of the world's tallest twin towers...the Petronas Twin Towers...standing tall as an icon of modern Malaysia.

It provides picturesque and serene surrounding, a conducive working and relaxing environment... and how I wish I have the time for a morning walk and afternoon jog around the lake before and after work everyday.

Invited as a guest lecturer on Islamic finance in Singapore

I have been invited to be a guest lecturer on Islamic finance at an institute of higher learning in Singapore.

Will be going to Singapore every 2 months for 2-day lecture sessions.

Singapore is Malaysia's southern neighbour, complementing Malaysia in promoting Islamic finance in this region.