The Dior Fall/ Winter 2021-2022 Haute Couture Show was presented against an exceptional backdrop installation designed by distinguished French artist, Eva Jospin, in the heart of the Rodin Museum in Paris. This backdrop of silk-embroidered panels perfectly harmonised with the threads theme that inspired Dior Creative Director, Maria Grazia Chiuri.
Based on the unique design by Jospin, this 40-meter-long immersive gallery is entirely hand-embroidered by the highly skilled artists of the Chanakya School of Craft and Chanakya workshop in Mumbai.
This phenomenal work of art is the outcome of an extensive process with a dialogue of multiple voices. It also references both Virginia Woolf’s feminist manifesto ‘A Room of One’s Own’ and the Indian-inspired Embroidery Room at the Palazzo Colonna in Rome.
Once upon a time the global space race was decided by the wealth of nations, but now billionaires have started taking over its future. The world’s wealthiest man, Jeff Bezos, has blasted into space in his own spaceship of his private space company, Blue Origin, on July 20, 2021. Bezos is the second billionaire in just over a week to travel to space, with Richard Branson being the first.
The rocket reached an astonishing height of around 107km, according to the Blue Origin telecast, which was higher by more than 17 kilometres of Branson’s Virgin Galactic ride, launched on July 11, 2021.
Although some have celebrated this occasion, many have vented their frustrations about these billionaires not investing in more important things that are currently happening in the world, for instance: climate change, environmental pollution, the pandemic, and many more.
Amongst the billionaire entrepreneurs leading this privately-funded race into space (also known as NewSpace) are South African-Canadian-American billionaire Elon Musk, American billionaire Jeff Bezos, and British billionaire Richard Branson.
by Aida Lim Abdullah, CEO of Penang Halal International Sdn Bhd, A State Govt Owned Entity
(CGMA, CIMA, CA, CFP, CSI, BA (Hons) Accounting & Finance (major in law))
Within approximately 45 years, the Global Modern Islamic finance has grown to an asset size of about USD2.5 trillion as reported in 2018, represented by almost 1,500 institutions worldwide (Islamic Finance Development Report 2019), whereas, “The Economic Outlook 2021” report published by the Ministry of Finance (MoF), Malaysia, shows that the Islamic banking industry in Malaysia has a total asset valued at RM1.03 billion and the total outstanding Islamic financing is about RM787.8 billion.
Islamic Financing is not only for the Muslims. It is a fast-moving industry, alongside the development of Syariah and Halal business activities. The Islamic financial system operates with the principles of Shariah law where elements such as usury (riba), ambiguity (gharar) and speculation (maisir) are prohibited. In this regard, Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) and the Securities Commission (SC) have prescribed approved Shariah principles that apply to banking, insurance and capital market products in Malaysia; for example:- mudharabah (profit-sharing), murabahah (cost-plus sale) and tawarruq (tripartite sale).
HOW IS THE ISLAMIC FINANCE AND BUSINESSES IMPACTED BY THE COVID-19’S PANDEMIC?
The fallout from the Covid-19 pandemic and its effects on the world’s economy surpassed that of the global financial crisis in 2008. The unprecedented Covid-19 crisis created severe uncertainty and struck a dire blow on global economy and international trade. The negative economic and human impact with far-reaching implications on consumer, corporate, and global trade finance dynamics swept around the globe with lightning speed.
Nevertheless, based on the MoF report, it is expected that Malaysia’s Islamic finance industry is likely to expand further with the continuous promotion of Shariah-compliant products. As the financial industry and business environment evolves, there are more Shariah-compliant products introduced and are available in the local market for Muslim and non-Muslim investors and businesses.
The Covid-19 pandemic has also created awareness on the use of financial technology offerings in the area of Islamic finance such as Shariah-compliant digital assets, crowdfunding and peer-to-peer financing platforms with a suite of e-Commerce set-ups that offers Halal goods, like those initiated by Penang Halal International with its partners namely, Penang E-Mall@Shopee, Foodpanda, Food4U programme and Penang E-Bazaar@PGMall.
Globally, we are seeing some countries downsizing or even shutting down certain industries and sectors; the economic hardships observed have amplified and spilled over to all. Those who can work from home mostly have stable incomes, but non-permanent or daily workers are at risk of losing their earnings, particularly in the most affected industries such as property, construction, tourism and service industry.
CONCLUSION:
One of the important wake-up calls in this pandemic is that many now realise the importance of embracing ethical and hygienic lifestyles, especially in the food chain process from manufacturing, processing to consumption. As such, it would seem that the Islamic Finance will continue to develop and grow upwards alongside with Syariah, Halalan Toyyiban lifestyle, be it for religion or just an individual choice for ethical and hygienic lifestyle. There appears to be a bright future for Islamic Finance and Businesses moving forward.
Fossil records have shown that sharks have been around on earth 400 million years ago. There are currently more than 1000 species of sharks that are known to mankind with many new species being discovered every year. With movies like ‘Jaws’ and ‘The Meg’, these majestic top predators have been perceived to be killers and hunt humans from the ocean. However other than shark attacks or the Great White, there are other shark species that do not carry the normal traits.
The walking sharks discovered not too long ago in Northern Australian regions and as well as some areas in New Guinea do not really swim around but actually walk with their pectorals and fins to move across the ocean floor. Rather small in size, usually a metre-long, they feed on small fish and invertebrates. Scientists to date have found nine species of walking sharks and believe that sharks do have a remarkable evolutionary adaptation to environmental changes.
The One-Eyed Shark
The One-Eyed Shark
While one thinks about cyclops as an ancient mythological creature from Greek legends, a one-eyed baby shark was found inside a pregnant dusky shark near Cerralvo Island in the Gulf of California. Another of such ‘cyclops’ shark was found in Maluku Province by an Indonesian fisherman among the other normal babies inside the stomach of the mother shark. Initially when cyclops shark first made news, many were sceptical and believed that it was a hoax. However scientists have confirmed that the shark’s condition is a rare congenital disorder – known as cyclopia – resulting in the baby shark having just one single, large eye, right in the middle of its forehead. Due to the fact that no adult cyclops shark has yet to be discovered, marine experts believe that the animal is unlikely to have survived in the wild due to its deformity.
Found in 2010 and stored in a freezer by scientists for three years, researched for another few and only officially identified as a new species and finally given a name in 2019 is the ‘American Pocket Shark’. Netted by a trawl survey in the Gulf Of Mexico, this is the only one of its species that is captured making this a super rare find in the history of fishery science. This tiny shark species measures only 14cm.
Located on the Great Barrier Reef of Townsville North Queensland, the Museum of Underwater Art (MOUA) is a series of art installations created by world famous underwater sculptor and environmentalist – Jason deCaires Taylor. Taylor is one of the first contemporary artists in the world to exhibit his works in the underwater realm.
As Taylor’s only underwater art museum in the Southern Hemisphere, MOUA was created to educate and inspire the world about reef conservation, restoration and an aim to achieve positive environmental outcomes. Additionally, the museum aspires to share stories of the reef and the culture of its First Nations people.
Visitors are able to snorkel or dive into this marvellous underwater world to enjoy these incredible artworks which over time will transform into their own eco-systems, as they have been built to allow for coral planting to support reef restoration. Tours are available to those wanting to journey to this remarkable art wonder on the ocean floor to visit, learn and support a cause to make a positive impact to the environment, the economy and the community.
Diana, Princess of Wales; former consort of Prince Charles; devoted mother to Prince William and Prince Harry; patroness of many charities and organisations, campaigner, activist and international icon of grace, elegance, and glamour. Her untimely demise due to a car crash in 1997 greatly saddened the world. Princess Diana’s legacy has deeply impacted the royal family and British society, and she continues to be remembered dearly till this day.
On 1st July 2021, Prince William and Prince Harry paid homage to their late mother, Princess Diana – a special day which would have been the Princess’ 60th birthday. The brothers unveiled Princess Diana’s statue at the Sunken Garden of Kensington Palace, also known to be her favourite spot. The stunning garden where the ceremony took place was designed by Pip Morrison.
Created by Ian Rank-Broadley, the statue of the Princess is depicted in one of her trademark ensembles of a tuxedo-pleated button-up shirt, simple A-line skirt and a bold, wide belt. Renowned for her many eye-catching and show-stopping outfits, this statue perfectly encapsulates the late Princess’ style.
The new memorial, slightly larger at 1.25 times life size, is commissioned by the brothers to commemorate the 20th anniversary of their mother’s passing. With outstretched arms, the Princess is seen standing alongside three children. According to The Independent, Kensington Place released a statement expressing that the statue “reflects the warmth, elegance, and energy of Diana.” The three children are meant to represent the “universality and generational impact” of her humanitarian work.
A joint statement from Princes William and Harry stated: “It has been 20 years since our mother’s death and the time is right to recognise her positive impact in the UK and around the world with a permanent statue. Our mother touched so many lives. We hope the statue will help all those who visit Kensington Palace to reflect on her life and her legacy.”
Award-winning Asian artist Chng Huck Theng was selected to participate in the prestigious London Art Biennale 2021 – after his bronze sculpture titled ‘Embracing Oneself Again’ made it through the final selection.
Described as ‘The Capital for Contemporary Art’, the London Art Biennale was curated by the Gagliardi Gallery in conjunction with the International Confederation of Art Critics and the Chianciano Art Museum. The selection process is stringent, and only the finest artworks make the final show. Thousands of diverse and impressive applications were received from artists worldwide for this 5th edition. A total of 454 artworks were selected for the exhibition, which was held at the Chelsea Old Town Hall on King’s Road in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea in Inner London.
Chng, having previously represented Malaysia in the Venice Art Biennale and World Expo, was delighted to add another highlight to his long list of accomplishments in an art career that has spanned nearly three decades. The 49-year old shared – “It is a great feeling. To be recognised by such a prestigious art event, held in one of the world’s most art-inclined cities, is truly an honour. It definitely motivates me to continue my art journey.”
“But more importantly, this is also affirmation that Malaysian artists have the talent to shine on the world stage. Living in a culturally diverse society with rich heritage and history opens our minds to many different things, which add value, meaning and quality to the works we produce.”
Chng’s ‘Embracing Oneself Again’ sculpture comes from his ‘The Mask – Second Chance’ series of works. The work was inspired by a dried and burnt piece of wood he saw while exploring a local forest some time ago. He salvaged a few pieces, and recasted this particular stump in bronze. To add layer and nuance, he also added a mask and feet casted from an actual chicken foot.
“It’s hardly possible to give life a second chance simply because once it’s gone, it’s gone forever. Just like any living being, plants and trees also have many chapters of existence before they die either naturally or suddenly. We may not know what happened, but we can always try to use our imagination and creativity to give it new life.”
“So while we cannot bring something back as it was, we can instead bring it back as something else. They need not be gone forever and can have a second chance if we’re creative enough. That is my way of trying to inspire the living to find purpose in their lives and strive for even greater heights. As an artist, it’s what I find both challenging and fulfilling,” Chng shared.
And this is what allows his works to stand out. To date, Chng’s artworks have gone into public and private collections in countries such as China, Australia, the UK, France, Singapore, Hong Kong, Thailand, Belgium, the UAE and the USA, besides his native Malaysia.
Fan Di’an, President of China’s Central Academy of Fine Arts, once said – “Through Chng’s sculptures, we can not only see his passion, but also an emotional daily record of his life experiences. Young and talented, the artist manages to bring out the exuberance, energy and vitality of life in his works. His creations have a unique character and style, and if he stays true to this uniqueness, then I’m sure he will go far.”
Rupert Myer, the chairperson of the Australian Council for The Arts, also compared Chng to Down Under greats like Albert Tucker whose works touched on socialism and politics. He saw parallels in Chng’s quest to have viewers reflect on layers of meaning – be it through telling and reminding, passing on memories, or seeing something through observing something else. “These are works of art that carry a common language, speak without barriers and go beyond boundaries,” Myer added.
The artist’s art journey began in the early 1990s when he was doing his Bachelor and Masters in Commerce at the University of Wollongong in New South Wales, Australia. Whilst buried in books on weekdays, he would spend his free time on weekends doing pottery and painting. And he never looked back. To date, Chng has participated in almost 70 group or solo shows in Malaysia and internationally.
Embracing Oneself Again, 38cm, 2019 Bronze, Limited Edition of 8
Besides his masterpieces, Chng also holds numerous prominent positions in arts and culture-related bodies including President of the Penang Art Society, President of the Penang Antique Collectors Association, and was a board member of both the National Art Gallery of Malaysia and Penang State Art Gallery. He also founded ArtGrup Penang and One East Museum.
Empress by Boon, San Francisco’s newest, must-visit epicurean destination opened in the heart of historic Chinatown, helmed by Michelin-starred Chef Ho Chee Boon. Armed with nearly 30 years of expertise in the culinary world, Malaysia-born Chef Boon is best known as the long-time executive chef of upscale international Chinese chain Hakkasan.
Empress Tea Room
Old-meets-new in this expansive 7,500 square-foot space remodelled by UK firm Atelier LLYS; it features contemporary elements dotted with repurposed fixtures from its legendary predecessor, Empress of China, such as its exquisitely carved panels and the original wooden pergola. Multiple dining rooms, the tea lounge and the bar accords diners breath-taking vistas of the city’s skyline from downtown to the Bay from three vantage points at this 156-seater rooftop restaurant.
Michelin-starred Chef Ho Chee Boon @ nottophotosCrispy Quail with chili garlic @ Cherylynn N
With the opening of his namesake restaurant, Chef Boon is excited to create and introduce his culinary perspective of elegant and modern Cantonese delights by combining traditional techniques with fresh, organic ingredients from the restaurant’s own farm in Gilroy, California. He surmises that it is “the perfect way to offer a farm-to-table experience like no other in San Francisco, aside from serving great food, providing attentive service and a lively atmosphere.”
W Maldives, in partnership with Cercle, the French media company known for filming and broadcasting music performances in some of the world’s most awe-inspiring places, recently hosted an unforgettable live concert at Gaathafushi – the private castaway island, a stone’s throw away from the resort.
FISH deckIsland Aerial view
The 75-minute set featured a magnificent performance by Berlin-based electronic singer-songwriter Monolink, renowned for combining melodic techno with dreamy guitar-led folk. The island’s pristine white, sandy secluded beach and turquoise lagoon served as the stage.
Cercle organises, films and broadcasts concerts in carefully selected locations around the world and is dedicated to promoting artists, great aesthetics, cultural heritage and nature through the facets of electronic music and video. Amongst the most jaw-dropping musical performances locations filmed included a hot air balloon above Cappadocia, Turkey, the Mont Saint-Michel Island in France and Glacier 3000 in the Swiss Alps.
Gaathafushi Island at W Maldives now joins this list of iconic locations, becoming the first hotel to serve as the site of a Cercle show following the likes of the Eiffel Tower, the Great Pyramids of Giza & Bolivia’s Salar de Uyuni.
Relive the performance on Cercle’s YouTube channel.
Sunway University invites future engineers to participate in its new programmes aimed at producing engineers with future skills
SUNWAY University touts immense growth in education, research, talent development, and contribution to society on both national and global grounds.
Entering a new decade of continued success and high growth, the university extends its programme offerings to a new area of strategic importance in the field of engineering.
Sunway University Engineering Programmes Development director Associate Prof Ir Abdul Aziz Omar said the programmes are designed to nurture future engineers to build a technology-enabled world.
“We are offering a new line of curriculum in addition to the fundamental principles of engineering to produce engineers with future skills,” he added.
Sunway University will be introducing two inaugural Bachelor of Engineering with honours programmes in electronic and electrical engineering scheduled for August 2021, and in chemical engineering in March 2022.
School of Engineering and Technology – YouTube
Gearing up towards a modern society The Covid-19 pandemic has impacted the world and the university found that science, technology, and engineering including electronics, communications and computing have been pivotal in introducing innovative and efficient solutions tools to mitigate any damage incurred.
This would also contribute to the protection of society, provide healthcare with advanced life-saving equipment and tools as well as diagnostics and data processing facilities, greatly support the economy, and enable the continuation of education.
The new engineering programmes at Sunway University aim to employ the latest innovative teaching methodologies and approaches that would expose students to the latest theories, engineering practices, equipment and tools in solving complex engineering problems.
Through strong industry links and focus on real-world problems, its engineering programmes would not only equip students with strong technical know-how but with hands-on practical exposure as well.
One University With A World of Opportunities – YouTube
To further support the delivery of the programmes, Sunway University has invested in brand-new laboratories and high-quality equipment along with highly capable academics in the School of Engineering and Technology that have advanced professional qualifications, diverse international exposure, strong research portfolios and extended successful education records to enhance students’ learning experience.
How future engineers could benefit Both programmes have received provisional accreditation from the Engineering Accreditation Council (EAC) Malaysia and the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) as well as approval from the Higher Education Ministry.
Upon graduation, students would have the opportunity to register as graduate engineers with the Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM) while preparing themselves with adequate professional experience and other requirements set by the BEM.
This professional engineer qualification is internationally recognised through the Washington Accord of the International Engineering Alliance, a global organisation that establishes and manages internationally bench-marked standards for engineering education and expected competence for engineering practice, where BEM is a signatory of the accord.
The programme would not only equip students with a strong technical foundation but also with advanced engineering knowledge and the ability to implement and apply them in practice, with extended soft skills and management capabilities.
The upcoming electronic and electrical engineering programme would open doors to varied career options such as electronics, telecommunications, robotics and industrial automation, computer engineering, power systems, medical electronic equipment, among others.
It would also introduce graduates to other sectors of the economy, research, academia, services, defence and government as digitalisation has made its mark in the modern world.
Meanwhile, the programme is open for registration, with scholarship opportunities available including the inaugural bursary for the first student cohorts.
For more information on Sunway University’s programmes, visit university.sunway.edu.my.
Prof Ir Abdul Aziz Omar Sunway University Engineering Programmes Development Director Associate
EZ MALAYSIA.NEWS 