Alhamdulillah! Many thanks to TV9 team for the great interview and air time. It was a very pleasant surprise to find so many people contacting me via FB after watching the program.
Thanks to TV9 Viewers
Thanks to all well wishers who wrote in to support my effort and offer words of encouragement.
I also received quite a number of book orders which I will despatch my by Pos Laju. Courier for overseas orders.
Helping Others to Earn a Little Extra Income
Some schools and invidividuals are also helping me distribute the books. I share a little profit with them. Since the introductory price of RM50 is not much I sometimes only take back my cost. They help me without expecting too much, with a good intention to share the beauty of
covering up with their friends. May Allah SWT accept their good deeds.
Friendly Helpers
Other friends have requested to help me sell my books and some even refused to accept any payment for their hard work of carrying the heavy books all over the place. From last October to May 2011 I had been selling the books at an introductory price of only RM50 excluding postage.
I am very touched by offers by people I hardly know - after reading the book they offer to help me sell my books, using their own time and energy. Another sister even personally approached several shops to sell my books. She managed to sell 30 books within 2 weeks. By helping me she helped me channel part of the takings to help another sister who needed some income.
May Allah SWT reward and bless all of them for their generosity and kindness. May they also obtain the extra rewards when readers change their lives to accept and respect the hijab.
Wonderful Feeling to Cover for Allah
Wearing a headcover and clothes that cover modestly is a wonderful feeling. It only comes when we decide to obey Allah SWT wholeheartedly in that matter.
Not Easy for Change Overnight
Its not easy to make a change but what matters is the sincere intention and the humble and continuous effort to fulfil our obligations. Everything we do eventually benefits us, if not in this life, then in the Hereafter.
Good Things do not come Easy
Good things do not come easy and there can be many distractions and temptations along the way. Somedays we win and some days we lose. When we fall, we must be strong to bounce up again, ready to try again and again.
Muslims must start to make time to write and share
It is my intention to keep on writing and documenting so the future generation can benefit from our effort. I urge Muslims to make time to write about things that matter, ideas and experiences that can help society. We learn so much from other communities. Why are we not giving back?
Showing posts with label book. Show all posts
Showing posts with label book. Show all posts
Saturday, May 14, 2011
Saturday, March 12, 2011
'The Beauty of Covering Up' page 11
Be Proud To Cover Properly - Not Half Heartedly
Many of us are already covered modestly in long loose garments with long sleeves. All we need to do now is to ensure that we cover our heads, neck, ears and bosom properly with a headscarf, tudung or veil, all meaning the same thing.
The Power of Covering
Yet this tiny piece of fabric is so very powerful and significant that it seems to bring so many mixed reactions from many Muslims and non Muslims alike, in many countries of the world!
Powerful Statement
Alllah SWT is Most Wise - He gives us the Beauty of Covering as a very Powerful Statement - with pride do we wear our Islamic identity as a symbol of love for our Creator. Subhan Allah!
Covering is an Honour and Shield
Not a Burden
Be Proud to Be Muslim! Be proud to declare that 'There is none worthy of worship except Allah SWT and Muhammad saw is His Messenger'.
Many of us are already covered modestly in long loose garments with long sleeves. All we need to do now is to ensure that we cover our heads, neck, ears and bosom properly with a headscarf, tudung or veil, all meaning the same thing.
The Power of Covering
Yet this tiny piece of fabric is so very powerful and significant that it seems to bring so many mixed reactions from many Muslims and non Muslims alike, in many countries of the world!
Powerful Statement
Alllah SWT is Most Wise - He gives us the Beauty of Covering as a very Powerful Statement - with pride do we wear our Islamic identity as a symbol of love for our Creator. Subhan Allah!
Covering is an Honour and Shield
Not a Burden
Be Proud to Be Muslim! Be proud to declare that 'There is none worthy of worship except Allah SWT and Muhammad saw is His Messenger'.
Saturday, March 5, 2011
Is Poetry writing a waste of time?
Poetry, Anyone?
Sometimes we get the impression that poetry writing is not so encouraged in Islam. Time is precious so we must manage it wisely. Maybe its to discourage people from spending hours trying to create the perfect poem - is it to express our thoughts and feelings, to share something beneficial, to praise Allah or is it just to impress others? Do not be influenced by our ego.
Time is Precious
No Rhyming Necessary
These days, we do not have to waste precious hours trying to make our words rhyme. Unless we are so very talented in rhyming , it is actually alright to tell it as it is. Know what I mean?
Be Yourself
I do not know too much about all this literary stuff but I will know whether I like what I hear or what I read. Its the message, the idea, the sharing that is important. Forget about trying to be someone else - it doesn't work.
Speed Writing for Practice
and to Jolt Memory
I have begun to write more often these days - once a week, though I should give more thought to the subject or topic. Been so busy lately that I did not even have time to type even a few lines. Just too busy - trying to balance work and ibadah. Alhamdulillah!
Write Like Crazy
I am starting to time myself when I write. Just choose a topic and write like crazy for 10 minutes. You will be surprised to find how much you can produce in just 10 minutes. I force myself to focus and tell myself to go with the flow. Of course by the time 10 minutes are up you will feel like writing more as your story has only just begun! If we organise our thoughts or have discipline, we can end the piece in a gentle manner, giving it an opportunity to grow into a lengthy story if we so wish.
Do Not Just Read!
Be a Productive Muslim!
All the ardent book lovers out there! Do not only just read! We may love reading but do you know all you people have gone through much in life, learned many things and are very qualified to write and share? We must balance what we do.
Read Read Read and Enjoy it all Then perhaps write a little to give back. Share your ideas and knowledge; entertain us even, by putting your knowledge and ideas into words.
Support Women Writers!
Like I had always said, we need more women writers who write about other women. Positive writing and also documentation. How are our brothers and sisters, our children going to learn if we keep it all to ourselves. Literally burying the skill, knowledge and information with us , taking it to the graves.
Amal Jariah
Do we have some sort of responsibility to share? And this process is two way - when people benefit or take positive action, we may also be rewarded for these actions. Insha Allah these good deeds are continuously rewarded (amal jariah) by Allah SWT.
If we have no time, start small
We do not need to write a thick book, even a few pages, even a pamphlet containing good information is good. There are also some companies that may sponsor the publication so the writer does not have to worry about finances but concentrate on writing.
Do not be shy - go for it!
Beginners do not have to feel shy. Find a writing buddy and co write a book - a story that encourages family values, short fiction that has a message, nasyid for children, a baby's first story book or even a book on how to plant vegetables in our backyard! The possibilities are endless so let us all start writing our first book or pamphlet!
Where to Start?
Those who do not know where to start can volunteer at ngos where help is much needed to write their newsletters, brochures, reports and magazine articles. That way your work gets published without incurring any cost. Of course your paymaster will be Allah SWT so do not expect a worldly fee for your effort. Amal jariah and continuous rewards insha Allah. The satisfaction you get is priceless!
Write with the Right Intention
One last thing, do not write only just to make money or enjoy instant fame. Our effort may become unnatural and calculating. Just be sincere and write good stuff. Write about what you enjoy or what you want to share with others. Write with responsibility and always ask yourself if what you write pleases Allah or not.
Support Muslim Writers
Muslim writers have limited market right now. Why? Probably because most of us have forgotten about them! Many actually do not know we have many good Muslim fiction and non fiction writers. We do not find fiction books easily even in large bookstores and even so the choice is limited. Locally we only get love stories favoured by young girls and religious books by Muslim writers.
There is not much choice and we often forget we can order books via the internet. Buying their books will help and encourage our Muslim brothers and sisters to improve themselves. We can help them achieve the financial independence to focus on good writing that not only entertain but perhaps educate us. Better that reading trashy novels that are of no benefit to us except fleeting entertainment.
Rezeki (Blessings and Bounties) is determined by Allah
Rezeki is from Allah SWT so do what we can and leave the rest to Him. Even without great monetary rewards initially, insha Allah your rewards and wealth will come in many ways that you least expect.
Sometimes we get the impression that poetry writing is not so encouraged in Islam. Time is precious so we must manage it wisely. Maybe its to discourage people from spending hours trying to create the perfect poem - is it to express our thoughts and feelings, to share something beneficial, to praise Allah or is it just to impress others? Do not be influenced by our ego.
Time is Precious
No Rhyming Necessary
These days, we do not have to waste precious hours trying to make our words rhyme. Unless we are so very talented in rhyming , it is actually alright to tell it as it is. Know what I mean?
Be Yourself
I do not know too much about all this literary stuff but I will know whether I like what I hear or what I read. Its the message, the idea, the sharing that is important. Forget about trying to be someone else - it doesn't work.
Speed Writing for Practice
and to Jolt Memory
I have begun to write more often these days - once a week, though I should give more thought to the subject or topic. Been so busy lately that I did not even have time to type even a few lines. Just too busy - trying to balance work and ibadah. Alhamdulillah!
Write Like Crazy
I am starting to time myself when I write. Just choose a topic and write like crazy for 10 minutes. You will be surprised to find how much you can produce in just 10 minutes. I force myself to focus and tell myself to go with the flow. Of course by the time 10 minutes are up you will feel like writing more as your story has only just begun! If we organise our thoughts or have discipline, we can end the piece in a gentle manner, giving it an opportunity to grow into a lengthy story if we so wish.
Do Not Just Read!
Be a Productive Muslim!
All the ardent book lovers out there! Do not only just read! We may love reading but do you know all you people have gone through much in life, learned many things and are very qualified to write and share? We must balance what we do.
Read Read Read and Enjoy it all Then perhaps write a little to give back. Share your ideas and knowledge; entertain us even, by putting your knowledge and ideas into words.
Support Women Writers!
Like I had always said, we need more women writers who write about other women. Positive writing and also documentation. How are our brothers and sisters, our children going to learn if we keep it all to ourselves. Literally burying the skill, knowledge and information with us , taking it to the graves.
Amal Jariah
Do we have some sort of responsibility to share? And this process is two way - when people benefit or take positive action, we may also be rewarded for these actions. Insha Allah these good deeds are continuously rewarded (amal jariah) by Allah SWT.
If we have no time, start small
We do not need to write a thick book, even a few pages, even a pamphlet containing good information is good. There are also some companies that may sponsor the publication so the writer does not have to worry about finances but concentrate on writing.
Do not be shy - go for it!
Beginners do not have to feel shy. Find a writing buddy and co write a book - a story that encourages family values, short fiction that has a message, nasyid for children, a baby's first story book or even a book on how to plant vegetables in our backyard! The possibilities are endless so let us all start writing our first book or pamphlet!
Where to Start?
Those who do not know where to start can volunteer at ngos where help is much needed to write their newsletters, brochures, reports and magazine articles. That way your work gets published without incurring any cost. Of course your paymaster will be Allah SWT so do not expect a worldly fee for your effort. Amal jariah and continuous rewards insha Allah. The satisfaction you get is priceless!
Write with the Right Intention
One last thing, do not write only just to make money or enjoy instant fame. Our effort may become unnatural and calculating. Just be sincere and write good stuff. Write about what you enjoy or what you want to share with others. Write with responsibility and always ask yourself if what you write pleases Allah or not.
Support Muslim Writers
Muslim writers have limited market right now. Why? Probably because most of us have forgotten about them! Many actually do not know we have many good Muslim fiction and non fiction writers. We do not find fiction books easily even in large bookstores and even so the choice is limited. Locally we only get love stories favoured by young girls and religious books by Muslim writers.
There is not much choice and we often forget we can order books via the internet. Buying their books will help and encourage our Muslim brothers and sisters to improve themselves. We can help them achieve the financial independence to focus on good writing that not only entertain but perhaps educate us. Better that reading trashy novels that are of no benefit to us except fleeting entertainment.
Rezeki (Blessings and Bounties) is determined by Allah
Rezeki is from Allah SWT so do what we can and leave the rest to Him. Even without great monetary rewards initially, insha Allah your rewards and wealth will come in many ways that you least expect.
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Book Preview at Zu's Home
Mid night Baking Again
Alhamdulillah! I managed to finish baking a chocolate marble butter cake past midnight for the book preview the next day. I am so blessed to have such kind and wonderful friends who helped organise this event for me. Zu, her sister Zawiyah and Yasmin took the trouble to organise and sponsor all the delicious food for brunch. I truly appreciate their thoughtfulness.
How an Idea Grew into a Book
Yasmin shared with the audience about how the idea of the book began. She further emphasised that it is also an ongoing dawah effort to share and motivate our sisters to dress modestly.
Joy of Dressing
I talked about transition and journey of writing the book. I also mentioned the joy of dressing in a way that pleases Allah SWT. We must never forget our identity! We are Muslima, walking Ambassadors of Islam.
This is because people often judge Islam from the behaviour of the Muslims. Just as there are good Muslims and there are also bad ones. People usually overlook contributions of the good ones and remember only the bad or evil behaviour of others who are probably very ignorant. Muslims with true knowledge would never want to disobey Allah SWT deliberately.
'The Beauty of Covering Up' as a Gift with a Message
Most of the ladies who attended the preview were already dressed modestly. Yet they took the trouble to attend the preview to support our dawah effort and to enjoin silatul rahim, sisterhood in Islam. And they gave further support by buying the books for their own collection and some for giving away as gifts with a message.
Brunch was a Tasty Treat!
Brunch was quite impressive! Of course the beautiful surroundings and tranquility of the beautiful home created a very cosy ambience. Sister Rayhana brought a plateful of pastel coloured mini cupcakes - so cute and appetising!
Zu and her sister sponsored the potato lasagne, tuna puffs, Malay kueh, drinks and even the eco friendly disposable plates, forks and spoons! Yasmin cooked fried mihun (rice vermicelli) and brought sausage rolls and cream puffs etc. Wasn't that a real treat? This is Malaysian hospitality.
Clothes and Scarves
Zawiyah was my first customer. She selected a Chinese long dress in brilliant greenish blue woven fabric that was light and cool. A guest bought a matt golden brown long dress with smocked effect and beading. It was a new piece from Dubai.
Quite a number of scarves were sold quickly. I managed to source some of the latest designs just two days before. There are so many wonderful choices these days that the scarf industry is thriving at a great speed. I made sure they are reasonably priced to encourage more people to cover themselves beautifully.
Alhamdulillah! I managed to finish baking a chocolate marble butter cake past midnight for the book preview the next day. I am so blessed to have such kind and wonderful friends who helped organise this event for me. Zu, her sister Zawiyah and Yasmin took the trouble to organise and sponsor all the delicious food for brunch. I truly appreciate their thoughtfulness.
How an Idea Grew into a Book
Yasmin shared with the audience about how the idea of the book began. She further emphasised that it is also an ongoing dawah effort to share and motivate our sisters to dress modestly.
Joy of Dressing
I talked about transition and journey of writing the book. I also mentioned the joy of dressing in a way that pleases Allah SWT. We must never forget our identity! We are Muslima, walking Ambassadors of Islam.
This is because people often judge Islam from the behaviour of the Muslims. Just as there are good Muslims and there are also bad ones. People usually overlook contributions of the good ones and remember only the bad or evil behaviour of others who are probably very ignorant. Muslims with true knowledge would never want to disobey Allah SWT deliberately.
'The Beauty of Covering Up' as a Gift with a Message
Most of the ladies who attended the preview were already dressed modestly. Yet they took the trouble to attend the preview to support our dawah effort and to enjoin silatul rahim, sisterhood in Islam. And they gave further support by buying the books for their own collection and some for giving away as gifts with a message.
Brunch was a Tasty Treat!
Brunch was quite impressive! Of course the beautiful surroundings and tranquility of the beautiful home created a very cosy ambience. Sister Rayhana brought a plateful of pastel coloured mini cupcakes - so cute and appetising!
Zu and her sister sponsored the potato lasagne, tuna puffs, Malay kueh, drinks and even the eco friendly disposable plates, forks and spoons! Yasmin cooked fried mihun (rice vermicelli) and brought sausage rolls and cream puffs etc. Wasn't that a real treat? This is Malaysian hospitality.
Clothes and Scarves
Zawiyah was my first customer. She selected a Chinese long dress in brilliant greenish blue woven fabric that was light and cool. A guest bought a matt golden brown long dress with smocked effect and beading. It was a new piece from Dubai.
Quite a number of scarves were sold quickly. I managed to source some of the latest designs just two days before. There are so many wonderful choices these days that the scarf industry is thriving at a great speed. I made sure they are reasonably priced to encourage more people to cover themselves beautifully.
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Book Launch at JW Marriot Hotel KL
Life is always full of surprises!
I cannot agree more! After many changes, insha Allah my book will be launched in November at a Charity Hi Tea Gala Function! Of course its not the highlight of the event but nevertheless, it will be part of a very prestigeous and elegant setting. And insha Allah some people there may be interested enough to want to know just why being covered up is beautiful!
I want to thank many of my sisters have who bought tickets for this charity event and look forward to being with them on this happy occasion.
I cannot agree more! After many changes, insha Allah my book will be launched in November at a Charity Hi Tea Gala Function! Of course its not the highlight of the event but nevertheless, it will be part of a very prestigeous and elegant setting. And insha Allah some people there may be interested enough to want to know just why being covered up is beautiful!
I want to thank many of my sisters have who bought tickets for this charity event and look forward to being with them on this happy occasion.
I Feel so Very Blessed!
Sister Jamilah Samian and Zabrina Abu Bakar
2 Inspiring Writers in our midst!
Alhamdulillah! I really feel blessed to have met 2 very well known Muslimah writers! Sister Jamilah Samian is no stranger to parents of young children. She has a wealth of knowledge on how to understand and raise our children in a caring, productive and spiritual manner. And I enjoy listening to her talks as she shared insights and advice on how to bring the best out of our children.
I met sister Zabrina Abu Bakar on several occasions. She too,is also an active volunteer in ngo activities. She may not remember me as we didn't have much time to talk but I looked forward to meeting her again.
Sisters Writing Support Group
I told sister Jamila how nice it would be if sisters can meet to discuss ideas and support and motivate each other to produce more meaningful and quality books. Being relatively new I would certainly value some tips from our seasoned writers.
Please, Everybody - Start Writing!
In fact I encourage everyone to write. It is very addictive and satisfying. We try to share our thoughts, ideas and knowledge through a string of words..... sometimes the flow of words end in an interesting and unexpected twist. I occasionally surprise myself that I could suddenly think of a powerful phrase or idea. Subhan Allah! The Almighty sends help and inspiration when we sometimes hit a writer's block!
2 Inspiring Writers in our midst!
Alhamdulillah! I really feel blessed to have met 2 very well known Muslimah writers! Sister Jamilah Samian is no stranger to parents of young children. She has a wealth of knowledge on how to understand and raise our children in a caring, productive and spiritual manner. And I enjoy listening to her talks as she shared insights and advice on how to bring the best out of our children.
I met sister Zabrina Abu Bakar on several occasions. She too,is also an active volunteer in ngo activities. She may not remember me as we didn't have much time to talk but I looked forward to meeting her again.
Sisters Writing Support Group
I told sister Jamila how nice it would be if sisters can meet to discuss ideas and support and motivate each other to produce more meaningful and quality books. Being relatively new I would certainly value some tips from our seasoned writers.
Please, Everybody - Start Writing!
In fact I encourage everyone to write. It is very addictive and satisfying. We try to share our thoughts, ideas and knowledge through a string of words..... sometimes the flow of words end in an interesting and unexpected twist. I occasionally surprise myself that I could suddenly think of a powerful phrase or idea. Subhan Allah! The Almighty sends help and inspiration when we sometimes hit a writer's block!
The Beauty of Covering Up -hot off the press!
Yes! the long awaited moment... my book is published! Alhamdulillah! After so many changes, drafts, redrafts, fighting for time and juggling between all my various duties and activities - we made it!
I have to thank my design team as they really tried their best to come up with a concept that reflects my personality and expectations. I did try to be less demanding (I don't like to make people suffer) but they were really pushing the limits and telling me not to settle for less!
Sister Yasmin Gan had, a few years ago when I shared my aspiration to publish my own book on Islamic garments said she would like to produce my book for me. That spurred me on as an experienced publisher would consider my materials suitable for publishing.
When I openly expressed my desire to publish my book, there were several suggestions. Some friends asked me to let someone else publish it and the company would take care of everything. Yes, from artwork, layout, concept and even the financing! Sounds too good to be true?
I was realy quite interested but I wanted to be part of the process of concept and design. I needed someone with a sharp eye and mind to tell me how to improve my book. I needed support and motivation, someone to guide me and challenge me improve myself.
So I didn't really have the choice but to self publish. And I don't regret it as I now have the freedom to share my books with more people and also determine where to market my books. I want to share and I want it to be affordable. Being self published means I can adjust the pricing to suit the situation. I can even give a discount at a book signing event if its held in a private location. I do not need to pay the publisher any royalties. The best is I can insha Allah sell my books to many parts of the country and the world!
If I were writing a book that has little colour and illustrations perhaps would be more feasible to seek the help of a friendly publisher. If the book is full of illustrations, we need a dedicated creative team to make the best of it and publishers may not be keen to invest on that. We can't have everything.
I am of course on the look out anyway, I want to know my options. That's because as I am already dreaming of my next book!
Alhamdulillah! I love my book! I hope you do too.
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