Goodbye 2023, A Year of Milestones & Hello 2024, A Year of Gateway to Wisdom : Reflections on Personal Achievements, Spiritual Quotient, Bookworming & Soft Spots @ Syukr / Sabr.

As I am typing this, I am at Nexus Resort and Spa Karambunai, Tuaran. I have been having my year-end relaxation from The East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia (Kelantan & Terengganu) to the East Malaysia (Sabah). I think I deserve this pampered sloth trip after being such a hardworking darling. It is my way of appreciating myself. Anyway, today is 29th December 2023 and in another 3 days, I will be a legit 40 years old! Gasp! Initially, it wasn’t a big deal for me but lately I just realized that it is actually a gateway of a whole new decade for me – and I should be mentally prepared for that as for me, a strong mind is the most paramount asset of a human being.

Alhamdulillah. Didn’t expect this due to university’s usual technical timing technicality. But it is by the will of ALLAH SWT. 

Retrospectively, it has been such a colourful 2023 for me. I dubbed 2023 as The Year of Milestones in my birthday entry (REFER to https://undomiel84.wordpress.com/2023/06/05/2023-a-yearrrrr-of-milestones-the-age-of-39-years-old-virtues-viva-ventures/) and I was definitely right! Definitely, the icing of 2023 was my PhD graduation! My journey has been drenched and plagued (Haha!) with so many untold and cannot-be-told behind the scenes stories. You can simply clicked the tag “Road to PhD” in my blog to read my journey and of course all the breadcrumbs and Easter Eggs I have had left for all those who are good in reading between the lines! All I can say- “phew, Alhamdulillah, Praise The Almighty!” Nevertheless, I still could not believe that I’ve passed my viva and UPM senate has endorsed my thesis. Well, I still owe UPM my hardbound thesis and I think I shall get it submitted prior to February as I was dealing with horrible toothache at the beginning of this year-end school holidays which previously was meant for me to focus on the softbound of the thesis, etc. 

Another Alhamdulillah. Second time performing umrah. After 9 years, I was back in the Haramain, again. For a marhaen like me – this was precious. 

Next, I also had the chance to perform Umrah for the second time! Like I said, this umrah was like me humbling myself towards His Calls for throughout my PhD journey, I have discovered that ALLAH SWT has never left me when others simply ignored and deserted me – they only came thronging when I wear that PhD bonnet / regalia. True story, I ain’t gonna lie. I see many long-lost familiar faces and media social profiles suddenly “showing interest” on my daily updates whereas all these while, I wasn’t an interesting specimen! Haha! Well, one thing about me is that I NOTICE EVERY SINGLE PERSON who makes effort to connect with me – and who don’t. So as I am getting older (and wiser), I am reducing my circle and those who I feel don’t like sincerely or have no genuine affection – I would just discard and distance myself away. In a very professional and cultured way, unlike during my USM days of course. Haha! But anyway, Alhamdulillah it was a wonderful journey on whole and like I wrote in the entry before – this time ALLAH SWT lavished me with comfortable physical logistics – hotels, food, accommodations, etc – BUT I was tested inside on how to control my Sabr and my razor-mouth from my usual snapping when I faced strangers’ judgmental statements or sarcastic smirks. But everything was educational for me and well, ALLAH SWT is the Most Knower of all.

My letter on Michelle Yeoh dated 18th March 2023. 

My letter dated 9th December 2023 on depression. 

 Apart from that, this year I have written only two letters to The Star (I have been making this as personal annual KPI for the last two years! Haha!) and of course I recorded these in my SPKLM via my colleague Teacher Halina Nasir :-

• On 18th March 2023 – about Michelle Yeoh and her Malaysian/ Asian root winning the Oscar at https://www.thestar.com.my/opinion/letters/2023/03/18/take-the-cue-from-michelle;
• On 9th December 2023 – about depression and I relate my own depression experience at https://www.thestar.com.my/opinion/letters/2023/12/09/sharing-the-experience-of-and-ways-to-deal-with-depression (and it is the first time I am using the official prefix Dr. in front of my name!) – Well, I am not obsessed with the “title” of course but in official address, I will go with the flow. After all, Malaysia ranks as the highest scorer in the Hofstede’s Power Distance index, don’t you know? 

As for the books I have read throughout 2023;  I only managed to read 2 books! That is considerably abysmal record and I am quite ashamed to admit it! Perhaps due to the focus on PhD? And well, since I am still in the process of reading “Heart of the Sun Warrior”, I definitely cannot count that in, too. Actually, I love to “savour” the moment of the contents and not to be rushed just to finish it. I like taking time and procrastinate.  Under the hashtag #WhatShahrillReads, I could trace the names of the books from my media social sharing :-

1. “Rapid Fire Rafidah” by Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Rafidah binti Aziz;
2. “Daughter of the Moon Goddess” by Sue Lynn Tan 

And also I guess the highlight of this year is that I have finally met this person after three years of getting acquainted. It is unconventional but I felt connected the first time I interacted with this person. Definitely both in awe with the enigmatic charisma and cannot deny that animalistic naughtiness inside me, as well. Haha! But I regard this person as somehow a saviour that have kept me away from being drifted too far in the sea of hedonism. Like a thirsty Rumi seeking for a guide in a topsy-turvy life, this person came to me like Rumi’s Shams Tabrizi. But of course, I am also being realistic. Being a childlike with all these utopian metaphorical wants and fantasies, I am also very much a person whose feet still on the ground. I express myself well in English ramblings or poems. And I don’t know – perhaps it was because of spiritual enlightenment I got from the Haramain (my umrah), I am no more feeling klutzy or fuelled with volatile emotion. I am OK if suddenly the person decides not to be in good term with me anymore – being nonchalant. Of course being the childlike me, I will be sad but after umrah, I have come to realize that humans are fickle-minded with ephemeral presence. The hearts often change. And we humans cannot control other humans. Being obsessive will only backfire us, no? So just take it slowly. And pray. Who knows 2024 will lead to somebody or new life? Well, life is mysterious.

On whole, 2023 has been an interesting year for me. ALLAH SWT also has been kind towards me. I can only express my Syukr. Alhamdulillah for everything. From Dr. Shahrill Ramli to Shahrill Ramli. 

#ShahrillsCOVID19Diary : My Covid Experience – Reflections & Rantings.

At last, I am no more a “covirgin” (COVID virgin)! Haha! After two years since the initiate explosion of the pandemic (and now endemic), I finally make it as one of the statistical data. Not something to be proud of and not something I aspire to experience again, though. Still, every life phase is worth to be immortalized as my own life stela. 

The positive RTK! The first time in my life! Never in millionth years would have thought that I was going to contract the virus at the school. But, oh well! God is Great! 

Two weeks ago Friday 8th July 2022 was the last day prior to Aidiladha holiday. Coincidentally, it was the last day for my colleague, Syafiq who was about to be redeployed to another school. I didn’t have the chance to take picture with another colleague, Ishak as we were so occupied with the recent “Kejohanan Ragbi Rimau Bawah 12 Tahun Hulu Selangor” in which my school was selected as the host and they asked me to become the emcee for two consecutive days (it was a good exposure for me). So, I thought I would see Syafiq for the last time prior to the holiday. Heard that he was in the kindergarten buildings located at the front part of the school compound as he would be teaching preschoolers in the new school and thus, he wanted to observe our preschool colleagues handling the classes, etc. Talked for a while (without my mask – my bad; as I was already in my comfort zone) circa 15 minutes and then Kak Fadzidah came and she took our picture. I went out and resumed my working schedule until 12.20 p.m. 

 

Initially I thought I was tired because of “Kejohanan Ragbi Rimau Bawah Umur 12 Tahun MSSD Hulu Selangor” in which I was appointed as the emcee (Tuesday- Wednesday, 5th-6th July 2022). Never thought that it was due to COVID! LOL!

The picture that marked the inhaling of COVID! Haha! I don’t blame my colleagues as this was unprecedented. Syafiq, Kak Tina (the preschooler colleague who was seen in the mirror teaching the kids) and I were POSITIVE whereas Kak Fadziah who took our photo (can you see the her hand holding my phone?) was fortunately NEGATIVE! Well, perhaps she was protected under the grace of Kaabah, they said?! Haha! Alhamdulillah for her!  

Drove straight to the highway with the intention heading towards Jitra but as I approached Tapah, I noticed that the traffic was congested as it was festive season, after all. Made the spontaneous decision to spend night at Ipoh in Casuarina Meru, Ipoh. On Saturday 9th July 2022,  I resumed the journey to Jitra and arrived there circa 10.30 a.m. At that point of time, I already developed some sense of fatigue – which was highly unlike me as I am a frequent traveler. As precaution, I did the COVID swab test prior to entering my parents’ house and it was NEGATIVE. So, I definitely ruled out the possibility of contracting COVID. In my head – probably just the usual lethargy or flu.

Rifqi and I performed the Aidiladha Prayer at Sharifah Fatimah Mosque, Jitra. At this time, I already developed minor coughing. 

I noticed that on the eve of Aidiladha (night of 9th July), I started to cough with minor fever. I popped Panadols and hoped for the usual wonder. In the morning of Aidiladha which was Sunday 10th July 2022, the feverish state was still eminent. That was the first red flag as paracetamols would usually straighten things out. I even wanted to abort the idea of performing the Aidiladha Prayer but eventually went to the Sharifah Fatimah Mosque with Rifqi, my 1st nephew – since it was a “sunnah.” Wasn’t feeling well the whole day and had to scrap the plan to watch “Minions” with the nephews Rifqi and Raess in Aman Central. 

Bless my parents’ souls especially Mak. I wish to repay their kindness. They deserve to be treated kindly for the kindness and love they have shown to others. I noticed everything and kindness is something I don’t forget. 

At 7 p.m., I received the fateful WhatsApps message from Syafiq. He asked me to do COVID test as he was positive and so did the other preschooler colleagues. I was shocked but in my heart, I thought it would be impossible as I already tested negative yesterday – prior to entering my parents’ house, no? Still, I did the test and… GUESS WHAT? For the first time in my life, I got that two lines! I have to say that I was momentarily petrified – so I shouted from my al fresco attic to my family that I was POSITIVE! My sister decided to go back to Putrajaya on that very night so that the master bed room would be vacant for me to lead my quarantine. Approximately at 8.45 p.m., I moved all my things downstair and quarantined myself in the room for 6 days (10th July-16th July 2022).

Killing time reading “Legends of the Condor Heroes”. Finally, I have finished the the third novel after the lengthy procrastination. Haha!

On the first night, I experienced the wrath of COVID-19 fever. I had that fever spike and merely half-sleeping along with semi delusional state. I could relate this situation when I was warded in 2007 for dengue prior to working in AFFIN Bank. It was tormenting! Apart from that, my head was throbbing and all the joints were ached. My voice turned hoarse. On the second and third days, the fever subsided with the help of Panadols and the classic coughing syrup “Ubat Batuk Cap Kelapa Laut Afrika” was able to clear the throat from the phlegm momentarily. At this point, I lost the appetite to eat and would only respond to hot soups. On the fourth until sixth days, I regained the appetite but still, the stomach won’t accept full amount of rice. And I frequented the toilet a lot! But I noticed that my taste buds and smell senses deteriorated. I couldn’t feel the “umami” of the food. From there, I noticed that my senses were not 100%. But Alhamdulillah, temperature was OK but coughing and phlegm were still eminent. On the seventh day which was on 16th July 2022, everything was generally OK except that I still feel a bit dizzy / drowsy.

While underwent the quarantine in the master bedroom which was the same room occupied by my late grandmother, Tok Nab and where she eventually took her last breath; I couldn’t help but to reminisce about her. How her longing towards her youngest son who backstabbed her love, took control of the family heirlooms, etc – when he was actually residing in a house less than 1 km away from my mother’s. As Tok was still an antiquated minded where males are favoured against females; my mother sometimes felt under appreciated. But bless her soul for taking care of Tok till her last breath. I see that both my parents are kind people. I wish I could repay them. I hope one day, ALLAH SWT gives me strength and patience to take care of them when they become sick. I think they deserve that for the kindness they have shown to others. 

Nostalgic pictures from Facebook. With my late grandmother, Tok Nab. In 2017 and 2018 respectively. At her old house in Kampung Padang Jitra – now under the possession of the youngest son. I shall say no more. 

After the quarantine period, on the eighth day 17th July; I drove straight back to Batang Kali as I was supposed to go to work on Monday, 18th July. Alhamdulillah, it was a smooth-flowing journey without congested traffic but maybe because I was still fragile, the fatigue was immense. On Monday and Tuesday, my colleagues were quite concern looking at my sickly facades – and I could feel the difference in the dynamic of my health after contracting COVID. I had to gasp for air after climbing the third floors of the school buildings, and I could not project my voice as loud as I used to – without gasping for air! So on Wednesday, I took an MC as the fatigue/lethargy was taking toll upon the body and doctor diagnosed that my heart had rapid palpitation. On Thursday and today Friday, I feel much better. Perhaps because I already had efficient rest – and finally my RTK COVID test is NEGATIVE. Alhamdulillah!

I was concern whether I could go to work on Monday 18th July 2022 as my RTK was still positive at that time. A few colleagues raised concern although the administrators told me it was permissible as the virus was already deemed ‘non-contagious’. So, I got the black-and-white confirmation from The Authority to safeguard myself. 

If possible, I wouldn’t want to experience this anymore. It puts everything on halt – my health, my work progress, my thesis timeline, etc. However, I know this is all ALLAH SWT’s will. Perhaps this is a lesson to tame my heart. I thought that by limiting my socialization routines, I will never contract the virus. But who would have thought that I would be getting it from colleagues in the school? That is a lesson from ALLAH SWT and I am humbled by that. Besides that, I also learned valuable lesson from this COVID experience. I see the kindness and the hearts of those who really genuinely care about me. Of course initially it felt frustrated to see those I thought had me in their soft spots – to be nonchalant and did not demonstrate any feeling or couldn’t be bother to reach me out when I was just a phone call / numbers away; – BUT I am taking these as signs from God. I don’t harbour any ill will and I will continue to be my empathetic self like usual for the sake of ALLAH SWT – but, there is a change of heart now. And kindness always prevail and I never forget those who are kind to me. 

 

You just know who really treasure you; and you ought to see that. As Muslims, we always see the silver linings beyond the clouds. Alhamdulillah for this experience.  

The Year 2020 : A Capsule of Colours : My PhD Thesis & Articles, Death of A Friend, 7 Books Read & Gratefulness During COVID-19 Pandemic.

So today is 31st December 2020. Marks the last day of the year 2020. For Malaysians especially 90s kids like me, the year 2020 was pictured as the year where Malaysia would achieve its ambition to be a modern sophisticated country; a brainchild vision of Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad which was unveiled in 1991 encompassing a 30-years-plan with projection that each year, the country’s GDP was to be circa 7% consecutively. However with 1997 financial crisis and 2008 credit crunch and COVID-19 pandemic 2019-2020, that ambitious Vision 2020 was considered to be a failure. As kids, we used to visualize that there would be flying cars and robots living with us in the year 2020 but instead that fantasy was greeted with the lethal virus! Haha!

The  images we were used to visualize for the Year 2020 – as 90s kids!

After the Movement Control Order commenced in March 2020 until October 2020, Malaysia was considered to be one of the world’s best in confining the widepsread of COVID-19. Nevertheless, maybe God SWT wanted to teach us lesson; wanted to remind the power-hungry leaders (but proved to no avail, I see!) – Wallahualam. On September 26, Sabah held its state election despite Semporna dubbed as “Little Wuhan” as so many people reported to be infected. Of course with politicians flooding in Sabah to “support their parties”, they brought along entourages of “side-kicks” as well. And once these people travelled back to Peninsular, the nightmare began. It was the dawn of COVID-19 Third Wave. And as of today, 2525 positive cases were reported with that being the highest number ever announced in Malaysia. Hope that the new year will bring better news for all of us. Amin.

Anyway, as for myself; Alhamdulillah. I am so grateful that I am not affected financially by the pandemic. Being a government school teacher, the quality of life is unscathed. My heart goes out to people who are working in aviation industry (pilots, stewards, stewardesses), hoteliers / tourism industry players or those who are doing SMEs businesses – this pandemic has jeopardized their lives. People lost their jobs, business operations were downsized and negative profit margins started to take a toll upon the entrepreneurs. All these humbled me and make me reflect more about the situation – and honestly, I feel blessed and grateful. I pray that those who are affected will be able to make their ways out from the mess. I know that it is easier said than done – but the least I could do is to offer a Doa. Amin.

Condolences. You will be missed, Francis. We will be with you, chica.

Another sad news I received this year was the death of Francis, Kat’s husband on 19th November 2020. After a year battling esophageal cancer, he passed on. Efy (Efisius) and I had been following the routine of his treatments in Korea via WhatsApps and we often chatted with Kat while she was in the hospital accompanying Francis. That was the least we could do as friends. Hence, it was no far-fetched to say that we were so affected by the news – we became somewhat demotivated and dispirited (Efy also confessed that to me) and for me, I couldn’t sleep properly for almost 3 days. Our hearts go out to our dear chica, Kat. Certainly, it was not an easy feat to arrange for a sick person to fly out from South Korea back to Malaysia especially during the times of pandemic. However both Kat and Francis were strong-willed couple. They managed to weather the arduous 6 hours-long journey especially Francis who was eager to be back home. Nevertheless after a week in Institut Kanser Negara (IKN) and with Kat forced to be quarantined, Francis’ condition deteriorated. To cut the story short, he was buried in Kuching on the same day as his birthday which was on 23rd November 2020. There were so many heart-breaking episodes along the way but I guess let that just be our secrets. As a friend and a brother, I pray that Kat would be able to recoup her loss. Amin.

Co-authored a psychology paper that was published in Asian Journal of Psychiatry entitled “Psychosocial Support for Healthcare Frontliners during COVID-19 Pandemic in Malaysia” with DOI 10.1016/j.ajp.2020.102272.

Anyway, what about my own achievement? Well;

• My PhD thesis is going well ( I think!) and I am in the process of analyzing the data as well as making corrections on previous chapters as well (you know qualitative research with the emergent ideas popping out, like daisies!). I have faith, Insya ALLAH;

• My articles? Well, I have been working on two articles during the MCO and unfortunately they were rejected by many journals (I have to say that initially, I was feeling very demotivated by that but after a while I got the hang of that “normalcy”!). As of today, I am still waiting for the final verdict for these two articles from external examiners from yet another two journals. So, I’ll just have to wait next year. On top of that, I have also contributed to a psychology paper that was published in Asian Journal of Psychiatry entitled “Psychosocial Support for Healthcare Frontliners during COVID-19 Pandemic in Malaysia” with DOI 10.1016/j.ajp.2020.102272. Well, yes my name was also included but I didn’t play big part in it. Simply put, it was just more on the cosmetic aspect – language, terminology, etc. Don’t get me wrong! I was grateful for the opportunity but yes, it would be more satisfying to see my own ideas to be published, no? But my sister said that “a small achievement is also an achievement” and therefore I should be happy for this, too. I guess she’s right!

 

And so, to recap whether I’ve achieved my 2020 KPI based on my blog entry dated 3rd January 2020 https://undomiel84.wordpress.com/2020/01/03/shahrill-ramlis-vision-2020-personal-kpis-healthy-lifestyle-of-a-phd-candidate-primary-school-teacher-avid-bookworm-amateur-fun-runner-addicted-wanderlust/ :-

• To publish my second article in journals; – (only as co-author; still waiting for the verdict of my two articles).
• To attend 2 conferences; – (I didn’t attend any conference due to MCO COVID-19).
• To give my best to my school responsibilities – teaching Science for Year 4; and English for Year 5 and Year 6 – (Alhamdulillah, I feel that I have diligently carry out my task as teacher throughout 2020).
• To read at least 5 books from authors around the world (YES!!! I have read 7 BOOKS this year – “The Myth of the Lazy Native” by Syed Hussein al-Alatas; “The Garden of Evening Mists” by Tan Twan Eng”; “Uncle Tom’s Cabins” by Harriet Beecher Stowe; “Legends of Condor Heroes” by Jin Yong; “The Girl on the Train” by Paula Hawkins”; “Sex and Vanity” by Kevin Kwan; “Call Me By Your Name” by Andre Aciman)
• To join two running events; (I did not join)
• To travel either local or abroad (Countless of local wanderlust – but no abroad trip due to COVID-19).

On whole, I am quite satisfied with my 2020 KPI given the circumstances. May 2021 brings more good news. Amin.

Shahrill Ramli’s Vision 2020 @ Personal KPIs : Healthy Lifestyle of A PhD Candidate, Primary School Teacher, Avid Bookworm, Amateur Fun Runner & Addicted Wanderlust!

It is the 3rd January 2020. 3 days in this highly anticipated new year. Today I am not feeling that well as the weather is so scorching hot (34 Celsius). My head throbbing and I could feel phlegm building in my throat and lungs. During my Europe tour with Kakak (will update that in the upcoming entry!), I had also developed phlegm due to the winter. My body isn’t equipped to extreme weather. But I guess it is a normalcy when you are travelling here and there.

KPI No.1

KPI No.2 & KPI No.3

2019 has been a good year for me, Alhamdulillah. Although I have been away from my blog, it has been a spiritual period. But one thing I am quite frustrated with myself was that I did not enter any running event (my 2019 KPI was that at least I enter 2 events!). So, this year is a new leaf with new determination. My KPI for the year 2020 :-

• To publish my second article in journals; focus on my thesis and hopefully to sum up the whole PhD journey this year, Insya ALLAH;
• To attend 2 conferences to sharpen my scholarly persona (prior to viva);
• To give my best to my school responsibilities – teaching Science for Year 4; and English for Year 5 and Year 6;
• To read at least 5 books from authors around the world;
• To join two running events;
• To travel either local or abroad (but I have this vision to perform umrah for 2nd time).

KPI No.4

KPI No.5

KPI No.6

But most importantly is my health. I pray and hope that my body will be in good condition. That I am healthy. For health is undeniably the greatest wealth a man could ask for. Especially now that this year I will be 36 years old! Gasp (I know!)! Haha! I am trying to be BMI conscious now; drink water a lot and this year also, I am trying to eat more greens and fruits, Insya ALLAH. Amin.

The Voice of Feminism In Islam : A Muslimah’s Bold Discussion On Gender Equality, Reproduction Rights & Socioreligious Positions @ “Perempuan Berkalung Sorban” (A Woman With the Kefiyyeh Turban) By Abidah el-Khalieqy.

The process of reading this novel was put on halt for several times due to other focuses such as school workloads and my doctoral degree research proposal. At last, I’ve managed to finish reading the Indonesian Islamic fiction novel entitled “Perempuan Berkalung Sorban” or loosely translated as The Woman With The Keffiyeh Turban. I was first intrigued by it when I watched the movie version and was spellbound by the sociological messages encrypted in the plot. And when I Googled for academic journals, I also found a few papers discussing about this novel from the point of view of Islamic feminism and that triggered my interest even more; – this novel must be a unique one!

The film poster and the cover of my novel. Simple but very deep. I LOVE this. There are so many meanings you can decipher from this. You see all of the white-robed women are facing to the front as they are “taklid” (blindly follow) the tradition and customs whereas Annisa, wearing a keffiyeh turban and black-clad, facing the back with bold face, defiant and demand her right! Splendid!

The writer is Abidah el Khalieqy and according to her, the novel was her gift to the oppressed women under the patriarchal customs of South East Asian’s Muslim Malay society, particularly those who are of the religious schools environments (in Indonesian, these schools are called “Pesantren” whereas in Malaysia they are called “Sekolah Pondok”). This novel also is a satire embroidered in a fictionalized plot defying the old-age traditions where Asian women are to be meek and demure, enslaved by the customs in favour for the men.

The writer, Abidah el Khalieqy.

The protagonist of the novel is Annissa, a daughter of Kiai (religious school leader) whose life was all about being a submissive, good Muslimah. She was taught that as a good Muslimah, her ambition was supposed to be a good wife and to dutifully serve her husband (sexually and materially) as well as to be an efficient housewife. The question of whether she has the right to further her study or to become vocal on her needs as a woman in the house must never be arisen, at all. Her religious teachers kept quoting the Hadiths and the supposed Quranic verses that are in favour of the men in order to defy Annissa’s bold remarks on the antiquated demure position of Muslimah. When she came of age, Annissa was forced to marry a son of another renowned Kiai, Shamsuddin who was actually a sadistic, irresponsible husband. Shamsuddin was a playboy and had preferences on bizarre sexual acts. He took a second wife, an elderly widow named Kalsum and even engaged in sexual liaison with Kalsum in an open space – in their living room. Annisa’s life was tormented. Nevertheless, her life soon turned into a new leaf when her distant cousin, Khudori who went abroad to study came back.

Life at Pesantren, cooped with rigid Malay Muslims culture and taboos. 

Annisa couldn’t confine her emotion telling Khudori her oppressive life with Shamsudin.

On whole, this novel is very poignant and gallant, I would say. It touches on taboos that are rarely discussed such as women’s roles in household affairs – not to be merely the submissive courtesan but to be equally treated. Abidah also glossed on the ideas of women initiating the sexual engagements which is a taboo as women are usually portrayed as the shy ones and should not be the first ones to initiate sexual liaison but only to wait for the husband’s needs. Apart from that, the rights for the mothers to breastfeeding her infants were also touched – Abidah is of opinion that a mother has the right to whether she wants to breastfeed her baby or the otherwise; nonetheless, the bond between mother and infant during the 9 months of pregnancy would definitely make the mother adamantly wants to breastfeed her young, out of love.

 

Shamsuddin, Annisa’s first ruthless husband.

Besides that, this novel also highlights on the issue of infertility. It was touched during the conversation between Annissa and her second husband, Khudori when she expressed her fear for not be able to produce an offspring. Khudori explained that Islam has no issue on IVF method, as long as both gamettes (ovum and sperm) are from the legally married man and woman – if one of the gamettes are not from the legally married couple, it could be dubbed as adultery although the physical contact does not happen. On top of that, the novel also touches on the plights of a widow. Usually in Asian society particularly Malay and Indonesian, a widow is perceived negatively. Men harass widows as sexual preys whereas women would gossip and paint widows as homewreckers. Abidah glossed this scenario during the hiatus between Annisa’s first marriage to Shamsuddin and to her second marriage to Khudori. She had to endure people’s bad words and couldn’t even lead her life freely if she remains at the Pesantren. It is also illuminating to see how the character Annisa seeks knowledge and sharpen her personality by reading books and going to the university. Very empowering indeed.

Initially she was accused for being barren by Shamsuddin but in the end, she had Mahboob, a son with Khudori who eventually died, leaving Annisa to be the bold woman with spirit of a man with a keffiyeh turban.

But of course, I have to say that this novel ain’t perfect. There maybe some parts that are deemed too “liberal” in the eyes of average Muslims and quite bold, I would say. First, I disagree with the parts where Khudori as this learned courteous Muslim scholar to have body-contact with Annisa at the Pesantren when at that time Annisa was still Shamsuddin’s wife; and second, to metaphorically describing the intimacy between Annisa and Khudori’s first night was somewhat an “eye-rolling” for me. Sure I know this novel is meant for female readers (hence, the romantic wording and all) but I still cannot digest the idea of reading a Halal “Islamic sexual metaphor” – as per “Ayat-Ayat Cinta” (REFER to my entry at https://undomiel84.wordpress.com/2017/09/12/a-musslimahss-romance-fantasy-or-a-contemporary-conduit-of-dakwah-the-verses-of-love-ayat-ayat-cinta-by-habiburahman-el-hirazy/)! Haha! Still, this novel is a bold attempt as the voice of contemporary Muslimah from literature point of view. Thumbs up to Abidah el Khalieqy and seriously, I salute Indonesian writers for producing remarkable masterpieces and indeed, the character Annissa is what a Muslimah of these days should be; a bold and brave one, like a man wearing a keffiyeh turban.

Riding horses as one of Prophet Muhammad’s Sunnah. Beautiful Islamic masterpieces.

Siti Nurhaliza sang the theme song “Ketika Cinta” (When Love) for the film.

A Muslimah’s Romance Fantasy Or A Contemporary Conduit Of Dakwah? : The Verses Of Love @ “Ayat-Ayat Cinta” By Habiburahman El Shirazy.

I’ve completed reading the highly-anticipated Indonesian “religious romance” novel written by Habiburahman El Shirazy called “Ayat-Ayat Cinta” (The Verses of Love) &  this is my 3rd Indonesian novel that I read after two of HAMKA’s writings “Tenggelamnya Kapal Van Der Wijck” (REFER to https://undomiel84.wordpress.com/2016/03/25/the-human-love-an-ephemeral-withered-infatuation-tenggelamnya-kapal-van-der-wijck-by-hamka/) and also “Di Bawah Lindungan Kaabah”. I was so intrigued to read this (although romance isn’t my cup of tea) due to the hype on the novel and the film. So being the curious cat, I have to read this myself to verify the words-of-mouth! Is it true or merely cheap thrill?

This novel chronicled around an Indonesian Al-Azhar graduate named Fahri. As the protagonist, he is described as being a kind and responsible young lad with stoic principles on Islam. In this novel, four women were enamoured with Fahri :-

• Maria Boutros Girgis – daughter of Master Boutros Girgis, their Coptic Christian neighbour. I had the feeling that Shirazy inspired this character from one of Rasulullah SAW’s wives, namely Ummul Mukminin Mariah al-Qibthiya (I’ve written about her in https://undomiel84.wordpress.com/2014/01/14/muhammad-saw-he-is-no-son-of-god-episode-ii-the-husband-of-a-jewish-an-egyptian-christian-coptic/); but of course, Wallahualam! ;
• Noura Bahadur – An Egypt girl who was raped by her adopted father and was saved by Fahri;
• Nurul Azkiya – The Indonesian Muslimah students’ leader;
• Aisha – A rich Turkish-German lady with Palestinian blood and she wears a Niqab.

Fahri and Aisha – as per the depiction in the film version.

Maria and Nurul Azkiya have always been besotted towards Fahri but both of them surpressed their feeling and immensely hurt when they later found out that Fahri wedded Aisha. When Noura Bahadur learned this, she was so angry that she then falsely accused Fahri committed rape against her when as the matter of fact she was so in love with Fahri! I had the feeling that in this chapter, Shirazy drew the idea from Prophet Yusuf a.s. (Joseph) when he was jailed for not succumbing to Zuleika’s sexual advance (but then again, just my speculation. Wallahualam!).

Maria Boutrous Girgis.

I think Shirazy did wonderful in describing the exotic desert-like landscape of Egypt with his writing. I guess being an Al-Azhar graduate, he wrote that based on his own observation. The vivid description of the scorching weather, the web of modern transportation, the scenic Nile and Egypt’s geo-population – everything was so graphic and you felt as if you were there as you read the words. I like the whole concept of infusing Quranic verses, Hadiths and even some of the poems by Western philosophers and poets in the narration of the story but I wasn’t feeling that interested when Shirazy wrote on the romantic atmosphere between Fahri and Aisha! Probably because I am not a fan of romantic novel (chick flick?). I felt weird reading this segment in a supposedly “Islamic novel” but then again, I understood where all of these are coming from – maybe Shirazy was trying to hail the “Halal Love” (permissible love) between husband and wife as opposed to hedonistic sexuality in other types of novels.

Aisha.

Some people may agree and some people may disagree – to hail “Ayat-Ayat Cinta” as Dakwah medium. For me, it did brew the magic of Islam as The Way of Life. But to portray Fahri as this nearly perfect man with all the “Muslimahs’ ideal husband materials” is just too much for me to digest. But then again, it’s a fiction. But that doesn’t mean that it is not good. The idea of portraying Aisha as a woman with Niqab is excellent – to portray that to love is not merely superficial but skin-deep as Fahri has never seen Aisha’s face prior to the marriage except for her eyes (he eventually was allowed to see the face when they were deliberating about the marriage prospects). The popularity of Niqab seemed to skyrocket as a few Malaysian and Indonesian dramas began to depict characters with “Niqabis-and-the-mysterious-eyes”(including some celebrities) and you can see that due to this influence, more Malaysian and Indonesian ladies began to don Niqab! Perhaps there is a research that explains this phenomenon?! You guys can always search for the journals.

On top of that, it is also interesting to note that this novel isn’t focusing on polygamous marriage like what it has been publicized about – or at least that was my impression before I read this novel. Fahri was adamant to be married to only Aisha but as Maria became ill (and died later on), Aisha insisted Fahri to marry Maria in order to save her frail life – and to be the witness of the false accusation of Noura Bahadur as Maria saved her together with Fahri. But of course, I am annoyed with Fahri’s character – from someone who adamantly wanted to be loyal to Aisha to someone who has no qualm on serenading Maria with “Ayat-Ayat Cinta”! But, this proves to be a goldmine amongst the Muslimah readers I am sure (their fantasies to have that pious husbands as their Imams, all sort).

Aisha is portrayed as wearing a Niqab but in the novel it is also stated that she is a moderate Muslim and wearing Niqab is not a compulsory (When Fahri stated his anxiety about Aisha’s Niqab, if they were to reside in Indonesia as Indonesians are written as to have pessimistic views on women who wear Niqab).

 On whole, this novel is alright. But for me, it is still a far cry from HAMKA’s league. Nonetheless, it is a subtle Dakwah medium by using casual approach to disseminate the Light of Islam.

Feasting On Fear Of A Clown, Coulrophobia : The Stephen King’s “It” Film Review @ A Comparison Between 1990 & 2017 Silver Screen Adaptations.

It’s not far-fetched to claim that Stephen King is one of my biggest influence in improving my English as a non-Native Speaker, apart from Enid Blyton. Having a sister who was so into his horror novels, I was sucked into that interest as well, initially out of curiosity. Been reading his writings such as “The Shining”, “The Stand”, “Hearts of Atlantis”, “Christine”, “Pet Sematary”, “Bag of Bones”, “The Dark Half”, “Four Past Midnight”,”Carrie”, etc! True, his writings are graphic and quite nauseating to the faint hearts but I guess having that duality Gemini in me, I am kinda blended with the gory flavour. I’ve written some of the novel reviews in my blog such as (mind my flawed language. I gradually perfecting my language prowess as years go by. Haha!) :-

  

• “Pet Sematary” @ 18th June 2008 (https://undomiel84.wordpress.com/2008/06/18/stephen-kings-pet-sematary/);
• “Salem’s Lot” @ 18th January 2008 (https://undomiel84.wordpress.com/2008/01/18/a-quick-jot-from-assistant-relationship-manager-childlike-review-on-stephen-kings-salems-lot/);
• “The Dark Half” 1st Review @ 18th April 2007 (https://undomiel84.wordpress.com/2007/04/18/whimsical-writing-the-dark-half-by-stephen-king/);
• “The Dark Half” 2nd Review @ 30th November 2011 (https://undomiel84.wordpress.com/2011/11/30/diabolically-quenching-back-to-black-part-i-the-dark-half-by-stephen-king/);
• “Christine” @ 2 December 2011 (https://undomiel84.wordpress.com/2011/12/02/diabolically-quenching-back-to-black-part-ii-christine-by-stephen-king-the-rage-of-a-plymouth-fury-58/);
• “Carrie” @ 26th August 2010 (https://undomiel84.wordpress.com/2010/08/26/nuzul-al-quran-finale-of-heavenly-revelation-stephen-kings-carrie-possibly-pharyngitis/);
• “The Shining” @ 24th January 2012 (https://undomiel84.wordpress.com/2012/01/24/diabolically-quenching-back-to-black-part-iii-the-wrath-of-alcohol-addiction-stephen-kings-the-shining/).

   

When we were little back in FRU Flats, Penang; we watched the drama adaptation of Stephen King’s “It” like most of other Malaysian 90s babies and teenagers. Sure, it scared the shits out of us!! But there was this curiosity of wanting to know the ending of the story. As the miniseries was split into two parts for two nights (in TV2’s Dunhill Double!) due to the lengthy plot, my sister and I had that dilemma whether to watch the subsequent plot on the second night – but curiosity won and we watched it till the end! Hahaha!

The posters from my Instagram account – The 2017 version & the 1990 version.

After a few years when I finally read the novel, I learned that the real story written was more horrifying than the dramatization – there were endless curses, homophobic paranoia (one of the victims was a drag queen performer and he did some fellatio!), paedophilic orgy (Beverly had to have sex with all the boys as ritual!), etc! Nevertheless, the gist of the story was full of thrilling excitement and really played with your unfathomable nightmare. By naming the spirit It (for not knowing the real shape of the entity, although finally it was revealed that it embodied an arachnid-shaped!), Stephen King was toying with the sense of mystery with the readers as well. It manipulated the unknown fear amongst humans.

The book cover version we have at home!

The man behind the gory tales. Some said he has the inclination of writing horror stories due to a traumatic accident he saw when he was a kid, but he disputed that.

So, you can imagine how excited my sister and I when we learned that there would be a new revamped version of film adaptation of the novel in 2017! After watching the 2017 version, I would say that as a stand-alone film, the new version was alright as the cinematography was amazing and shocking gory scenes really curled your body hairs and not to say, heart-pumping as well! The current-modern CGI technology also helped the 2017 film to be more visually-friendly towards the gory scenes (blood erupted from the sink, etc). NEVERTHELESS, if you are a Stephen King’s die-hard fan who have been reading his NOVELS, you will be disappointed a little bit due to the film’s alteration from the novel. Why? Because you expect that the script would be true to the essence of the novel and you hoped that the film maker would be able to infuse the whole plot into one film; from the team’s childhood and defeated It and later reunited 27 years later to battle the resurrected It, again! But of course since the 2017’s version is dubbed as CHAPTER 1; it could be that the film producers have decided to focus on the kids as grown up and battling It 27 years later in a separate movie!

Tim Curry as Pennywise The Clown in the 1990 version.

Bill Skasgard as Pennywise The Clown in 2017 version.

So, to sum up my review, the 2017 version isn’t that bad, it has its strength and beautifully-crafted although some of the original scenes in 1990’s miniseries and in the novel were omitted – BUT for Stephen King’s fan, it is just a mediocre adaptation of King’s excellent gory masterpiece, if not the greatest.

It was sibling bonding time! Reminiscing our childhood nightmares! Haha! A long way from Penang to Putrajaya, no?

The Occidental Writing On The Colonial Pages : An Oriental Response Towards White Supremacy @ 1914 “The Black Pearl Of Peihoo : A Tale Of The Malay Seas” By Stanley Portal Hyatt.

Two years ago, I saw a circulation in Facebook – an excerpt from a Malay blogger claiming that the character Jack Sparrow in the famous Hollywood franchise of “Pirates of Caribbean” was actually a Malay and the character was not an original Disney’s but as the matter of fact was based on an old novel called “The Black Pearl of Peihoo : A Tale of The Malay Seas”. As I am a self-confessed literature and history aficionados, I was intrigued by these revelations – not the idea that Sparrow was an alleged Malay but the fact that the origination of the character was actually based on a novel. I kept an ambition to purchase this book but the hunting process was put on halt due to circumstances – until this year.

 

Some of the hard-cover editions.

My printed version from the PDF. I am such an old-school. I need to hold my book and I can’t stand reading through electronic gadgets! Haha!

I saw the hard-cover version, an original publication from the pre-Malayan Independence days at Kinokuniya KLCC which was displayed in a glass shelf. I saw the price and it was tagged as RM400! Oh, my! I was so keen to buy the book and I have that fetish on old books/parchments as well – but being rational, I didn’t like to waste my RM400 on the book! So, I’ve been lamenting my unpleasantness in social media and so happened that my sister saw that. She spontaneously searched a PDF version of the book for me and sent that to me! It took me around 2 months to finish the  book (of which I’ve diligently printed from the PDF version because I am so an old-school person who likes to hold his reading materials rather than browsing through electronic gadgets; but not when it comes to doing my PhD Research, no? Hahaha!).

There are 35 chapters consisted in the book and was written by Stanley Portal Hyatt in 1914. According to Wikipedia, he was an English explorer hailed from an affluent family but decided to leave the wealth to have adventures in the new uncharted Promised Lands. I found that his writing in “The Black Pearl of Peihoo” was undeniably saturated with racism and White Men’s Burden sentiment (as the matter of fact, I’ve written entries pertaining this issue; REFER to https://undomiel84.wordpress.com/2015/04/02/the-eengggglish-wwwhiihite-meeens-buurden-experience-from-london-to-leeds-a-malaysian-sister-traumatic-encounter-with-a-white-trash/ for my own sister’s racist experience; and many more). These are evident through the interactions portrayed by the main character (Jack Wayne) – in the dialogues as well as their inner perception towards the coloured people, as per paragraph on page 179:-

“Colombo is like kaleidoscope – all the nations of the earth pass in review before you there, the rich people of the nations, not, as in Mauritius and Borneo, the mere scum.”

Besides that, it was bewildering to read how uncouth and proud these Caucasians could be; on their white skin-colour and that EVERY NON-WHITE GLOBAL CITIZEN IS TO BE PERCEIVED AS BENEATH THEM :-

• P. Van der Humm, the antagonist of the story is portrayed as “hideous dwarf” and a mixed parentage of Dutch, Javanese, Filipino, Dyak;
• Manoel Da Silva, a crook is portrayed as “half-breed with ugly expression” – a mixed parentage of English and Portuguese;
• Ah Lung – the protagonist’s cook and loyal bodyguard – BUT STILL is labeled as beneath the Caucasian masters as he is of “yellow-skinned”. This reminds me of the Yellow Fever in the US years ago!;
• Mahomed – a Malay who is portrayed as “stupid native savage” who finally was bitten by a poisonous snake;
• The Palapogs, Raja Sayed, Timbota, The African villagers – all of them are described as being “uncivilized savages”.

Nevertheless, it is interesting to note that Jack Wayne (main character)’s rival named Sebag Tolhurst is described as an accomplice to Van der Humm – but still is portrayed as “cultured English among the savages”. I am not an anti-Semitic person but if I am not mistaken, Sebag is a Jewish name, no? I recalled reading the book “Jerusalem : The Biography” and the name of the author is Sebag Montefiore. Seemed like if you are of an ethnic that posses fair skin complexion, nearing the Caucasians’, then you would not be the subject of Portal’s racism description (although this is definitely contradicting the Aryan & Nazism propaganda in the Hitler’s days!).

Coincidental? Or plagiarism? Haha!

And to correlate the novel with “The Pirates of Caribbean” – I have found a few familiar characters in the novel that are similar to the films such as :-

• Jack Wayne (Jack Sparrow?);
• Captain Davy Jones;
• One of the chapters entitled – “Dead Men Tell No Tales” (the latest film franchise was entitled the same!);
• Black Pearl of Peihoo (but the film named the ship as Black Pearl).

Was it coincidental? Or was it a plagiarism? Or was it a mutual copyright trading? But Disney has never publicly acknowledge the connection, if there was any. What mentioned was merely that the film franchise was based on a Disneyland’s theme park. Any hint on this Portal’s writing is simply a non-existence – until our Malay bloggers unearth the treasure!

 

Overall, I can say that I am quite disgusted by Portal’s racism view. Nevertheless, one good point that I obtain from this novel although as provocative as it is – I managed to fathom the psychological view and mindsets of these racist colonists as I am a post-Independence baby. Racism is such an obsolete ideology but the existence cannot be denied. It exists in every crevice of our society as much as we want to sugarcoat that with diplomatic wordings. Nevertheless, what we should do is to curb it from becoming a lethal widespread epidemic or at least be sensitive towards others by not acknowledging it bluntly.

As this is the second colonial book I’ve read (The 1st one was “Almayer’s Folly” by Joseph Conrad; REFER to https://undomiel84.wordpress.com/2015/07/03/a-tragic-estuary-of-race-raucous-a-caucasian-fathers-love-to-a-half-malay-daughter-almayers-folly-by-joseph-conrad/), I can vouch that my horizon on the society is enriched, even more. Book is such a passport to broaden your horizon, no? I know that not all white people share the same ultra-racism sentiment. And I admit that even amongst the coloured people, there are some racism blossoming that contradicting each other (as per among the Caucasian people, as well). But history as it is. And we should learn from it, as to make the world a better place.

A Satire Towards The American Egalitarian Spirit : Defying The Apartheid, Sexism & Societal Segregation @ “To Kill A Mockingbird” By Harper Lee.

Finally, I can be proud that I’ve successfully read the celebrated, Pulitzer-Prize winning novel by Harper Lee, “To Kill A Mockingbird” after twice futile attempts in the previous years! Haha! Now, this novel is far older than I am, being released in 1960. I have been hearing rave reviews about this novel so I told myself that I have to read this to evaluate myself!

At the essence, this story presents its protagonist in the form of an 8 years old girl named Scout Finch. She and her brother, Jem Finch lived in a town called Maycomb in Alabama during the 1920s where racism, sexism and societal segregation were still very much prevalent. From the eyes of this little girl, readers are taken to witness the bricks and bouquets of prejudice and how the very thoughts of the untainted innocent minds could be taken into consideration by the “learned” adults. Apart from that, fatherhood also was highlighted in this novel in the form of the unique bond between Scout Finch and her lawyer father, Atticus Finch.

The main character, Scout Finch. A boisterous 8 years old girl.

The character, Atticus Finch as a lawyer is defending Tom Robbinson, the alleged black man who was accused to rape a white woman. 

Readers were taken to the time where apartheid was intact; Black People worked as slaves and maids in the Caucasians’ households. It is interesting to the dynamic interaction between Calpurnia, the Finch’s maid with Scout. As a boisterous girl, Scout hated the idea of having Calpurnia being so strict upon her and reprimanded her for not being a ladylike, yet she adored Calpurnia as a mother figure and treasured her cooking skills. Nevertheless, Scout never saw Calpurnia as a stranger although she was black. The kids (Jem and Scout) even joined Calpurnia to a black people’s church and Scout was written as to feel that she would want to visit Calpurnia’s family in the next future. Apart from that, the derogatory term “nigger” is used vehemently in the dialogue. Yes, we know that Caucasians do use this term casually when they are interacting among them – but it could be viewed as non-sensitive. But maybe Harper Lee was trying to inject that “naked truth” feel to the plot of the novel, I do not know.

Calpurnia, the black maid of The Finch. She treated the children just like her own children – being a strict motehrly figure and a disciplinarian.

The heart of this story lies on the raping accusation by a white woman, allegedly to be committed by a black man. Through this scene, readers are taken into the myriads of pride and prejudice of the apartheid sentiment – where a white man’s word will always supersede a black man’s. I love the dynamic of this confrontation but unfortunately it was merely etched as a portion of the whole plot; personally, I think it would better if the book was wholly dedicated to the case; and that would be such a thrilling plot!

A scene at the court where the white woman (Mayella Ewell) who claimed to be raped by the black man (Tom Robbinson) was cooking up stories.

As for sexism, Harper Lee illustrated the polemic through the ideas of that there were no women serving as the jury members, simply because of the sex! It got Scout to ponder for a moment and questioning that. For societal segregation, it is interesting to note that apart from apartheid, the Caucasian themselves are segregated into different clusters and strata. The Finches, who were considered as one of those old and elite families in Maycomb were generally respected by the people in the town but not for the “White Trash” families such as poor The Ewell family. It was stated by Aunt Alexandra Finch that people like them don’t mix with people like Calpurnia (black people) and also The Ewells (White Trash). From this, we could see the reality reflection of our society; the very existence of those who favour societal classes – and those who opt for egalitarian society (Atticus Finch).

 

Some of the memorable quotes from “To Kill A Mockingbird”.

For me, “To Kill A Mockingbird” was a good novel but I wouldn’t rate it as great although I admire the moral values embedded in it. One memorable statement from this novel would be “it is a sin to kill a mockingbird”, when loathing a black man was likened to a mockingbird. I just wish that the rape case was lengthened as it gave such dynamic for the plot and the characters – nevertheless, this novel was undeniably a good read, for me!

The film adaptation trailer of “To Kill A Mockingbird” in 1962.

Wingardium Levi-0-sa! : The Wizarding World Of Hogwarts @ “Harry Potter & The Cursed Child”, “The Tales Of Beedle The Bard” & “Fantastic Beasts And Where To Find Them” By JK Rowling.

I have read the anticipated subsequent of the Harry Potter saga which is “Harry Potter & The Cursed Child” along with two other companion books from the Wizarding World which are “The Tale of Beedle The Bard” and “Fantastic Beasts & Where To Find Them.” It feels so good to revisit this enchanted made-up magical world after been detaching myself from it for quite a while. Haha!

Initially, I was oblivious about “Harry Potter & The Cursed Child” manuscript to be made into book! I was only aware that there would to be a play on this and the premiere was set to be in London with the controversy of the role of Hermione Granger played by a black actress, etc. When I was in Leeds City Centre walking with my sister as we were heading back to Kelso Garden, I came across this chalk-on-board advertisement saying that “Harry Potter & The Cursed Child” book edition would be released in the upcoming 24 days! I was shocked and instantaneously took the photo, uploaded it in my Facebook & Instagram AND tagged my friend, Naz who is also a Harry Potter fan-freak! Naz told me that YES, the manuscript is to be released as book and he already pre-ordered that. Maybe perhaps I was occupied with my European tour along with my sister or whatever whacchamaccalits – I was not really going giddy with excitement. It was merely “Ohh, OK”.

The advertisement at Leeds! The one that opened my eyes!

UNTIL (Haha!) on the 31st July 2016 which was the release date of the book (and so happened is the fictional birthdate of Harry Potter! Oh, God! I am such a nerd, right? LOL!). Suddenly I had this epiphany and I was like – “Hey, why not drive my car to Kinokuniya KLCC and see if I can get a copy of that book?” On top of that, I also had Kinokuniya voucher of RM20 (due to my above RM200 spending on Baucar 1 Malaysia) and it would expire on the 31st July 2016! Being spontaneous me, I drove my car and no less than one hour and half (that is the best thing about entering KL on Sunday morning. Traffic jam-free!!), I arrived at Kinokuniya and got myself the copy for RM78 (Originally the price was RM 119.90. Kinokuniya gave 20% discount and on top of that, I also used my RM20 voucher!).

Don’t worry, I am not going to write any spoilers! Basically, this story revolves around Harry Potter’s second child who is Albus Severus Snape and Draco Malfoy’s son named Scorpius Malfoy. Albus is eclipsed by his father’s fame and was having hard time to claim his own self-identity as he is constantly being compared with his well-known father. Being sorted into Slytherin by The Sorting Hat and couldn’t find any niche that could fit him in Hogwarts (he is neither good in academic nor Quidditch), Albus found solace with the nerdy Scorpius who was already an outcast amongst the Hogwarts students for being a Malfoy and rumoured to be Voldermort’s son (which turned to be someone else!). The rebellious stage gone out of proportion when both Albus and Scorpius meddled with a Time-Turner which was kept by the Minister of Magic, our Hermione Granger-Weasley, trying to save Cedric Diggory from being killed by Voldermort!

Black Hermione, Noma Dumezweni which somehow caused fracas. But Emma Watson and JK Rowling fully supported this (http://metro.co.uk/2016/01/03/emma-watson-breaks-silence-over-the-casting-of-a-black-hermione-in-harry-potter-and-the-cursed-child-5597465/). Of course it would be weird because all these while, readers are already accustomed on visioning Hermione in the form of Emma Watson, a white. Let say if JK Rowling and Emma Watson to voice opinions antagonizing the selection of Noma; perhaps they would be grilled by the media via racist cards? Who knows.

I have to say that the plot was nice (as it is after all, the brainchild of our JK Rowling!) BUT having to read the story as a script does somehow dampen the “embodiment of the spirit of the story” because it is told from the point of view of a staged play (so you have some inscriptions on the “stage moved”, “actors move to the other sides of stage”, etc). If this story is written like its 7 predecessors, I have no qualm on saying that it would be a total magical reading! On top of that, I think this novel would be a great piece to be made as a film! Please, JK Rowling and Warner Bros – we are your cashcows (Haha!). Just do it! On whole, I do enjoy this “Harry Potter & The Cursed Child” but my No.1 among the 8 novels would always be “Harry Potter & The Goblet Of Fire” (,”).

The three books by J.K. Rowling. I am her cashcow. LOL!

I bought “Fantastic Beasts And Where To Find Them” by using the Baucar 1 Malaysia which I was entitled as a Master’s Degree student of Corporate Communication. I have to say that it was quite a mundane book so don’t expect any plots or whatsoever as it is merely more or less like an encyclopaedia for the mythical beasts created by J.K. Rowling. It is modelled after a ‘text-book concept’ and the names of the beasts are arranged according to the alphabetical order. Nevertheless, the movie version which will be out by end of this year will take viewers to the time before the text book was made and that means of course, the plot of the film is not in the novel. The script is to be written by J.K. Rowling herself; so… yeah. (,”).

As for “The Tales of Beedle The Bard” (I bought this at Harry Potter’s Platform 9 3/4 shop at London’s King Cross for 8 Euro!) which is a compilation of magical fairytales (ala our Brothers’ Grimms) and first came into the picture in “Deathly Hallows” when Ron Weasley was telling Hermione and Harry about “The Tale Of The Three Brothers”. I have to say that in comparison to “Fantastic Beasts”, I LOVE THIS companion book!! I think J.K. Rowling is a gifted fairytale storyteller!! I even like had this vision that Malaysian pupils can use one of the stories compiled in this book as the text in school story-telling competitions! I love “The Fountain of Fair Fortune” which I think can perfectly suit as bedtime story for children. It is about three witches who want to find a fountain that could cure their miseries. The three witches named Asha is a very sick damsel; Athelda who wants power and wealth after being robbed; and Amata who is heartbroken by a man. You know what, I can picture an upcoming film version of this novel IF “Fantastic Beasts” does well in box-office. You never know! Haha!

My sister teased me saying that JK Rowling will be forever rich with her books and Harry Potter merchandises for the rest of her life due to the easy preys like me – a cashcow! Haha! Well, I can’t deny that though because it is inevitable true. Haha!

In “Harry Potter and The Cursed Child”, there was an intense scene where Harry Potter had heated conversation with Dumbledore’s portrait. I felt the emotion of the scene and my eyes almost watered. The emotional outburst of Harry towards Dumbledore and how both of them cried. It was heart-wrenching. 

The trailer for the upcoming “Fantastic Beasts” movie which is not from the novel. The script is written prior to the textbook, by JK Rowling.