Latest news with #Anak
Borneo Post
3 days ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
Carnival boosts savings culture, education awareness in Sabah
Mustapha (second left) officiating the Anak Warisan Simpan SSPN Carnival. Norliza is at second right. KOTA KINABALU (July 26): The Anak Warisan Simpan SSPN (Kawan) Carnival 2025, organised by the National Higher Education Fund Corporation (PTPTN), is poised to foster a culture of saving and instil positive lifelong values within the community. Deputy Higher Education Minister Datuk Ts Mustapha Sakmud described the carnival as a progressive initiative that promotes financial literacy, strengthens family values, and preserves cultural heritage among Malaysia's youth. 'This PTPTN initiative aligns with the Ministry of Higher Education's aspiration to produce a knowledgeable, financially literate, and competitive generation,' he said when officiating the programme at Karamunsing shopping complex here on Saturday. Mustapha highlighted the importance of sound financial planning in supporting the country's higher education financing efforts. He said the Simpan SSPN scheme has proven to be an effective savings instrument, helping parents prepare for their children's education without relying entirely on loans. 'Since its inception in 2004, Simpan SSPN has recorded RM21.93 billion in accumulated deposits as of June 30 this year, with 6.98 million accounts opened. In Sabah alone, deposits exceeded RM689.84 million across more than 500,000 accounts, reflecting strong public trust in the scheme,' he said. Mustapha also shared the story of the late Mohd Roslan Abdul Rahim, a Federal Reserve Unit (FRU) member and Simpan SSPN depositor who died in an accident in May. His family received RM193,000 in takaful and death benefit protection. 'This shows that Simpan SSPN is not only a savings tool but also a form of financial protection for families,' he added. He commended the Sabah state government for allocating RM77.01 million towards educational incentives through programmes such as State Education Savings Assistance (Bistari), Higher Education Institution Registration Cash Assistance (Budi), and Special Examination Cash Assistance (Budi) from 2022 to June 2025. These initiatives benefit infants, Year One students, higher education students, and major examination candidates. Meanwhile, PTPTN chairwoman Datuk Seri Norliza Abdul Rahim reaffirmed the agency's mission to prevent students from dropping out due to financial constraints. 'As the main higher education fund in Malaysia, PTPTN continues to implement impactful programmes to raise awareness about the importance of education and financial planning,' she said. She added that Kawan 2025 takes a community and family-based approach, embedding values such as thrift and family integrity to nurture a resilient, harmonious Madani generation. Held simultaneously in all 14 states, the carnival featured poetry, syair, seloka and Simpan SSPN Action Song competitions, as well as cultural performances under the 'Heritage' theme, lucky draws, and engaging family activities. A Simpan SSPN counter also offered exclusive souvenirs to new depositors. Norliza noted that Simpan SSPN offers multiple benefits, including income tax relief of up to RM8,000 per year, takaful coverage, matching grants of up to RM10,000 per eligible family, and syariah-compliant, competitive dividends. She also expressed appreciation for the Sabah government's support of PTPTN's financial literacy and CSR efforts, along with the contributions of public and private sector partners. 'We hope Kawan 2025 serves as an effective platform for strengthening the savings culture, instilling heritage values, and supporting the growth of Malaysia's higher education sector, in line with PTPTN's motto—'Your Opportunity for Success',' she said. During the event, the District Education Offices (PPDs) of Kota Kinabalu, Penampang, Papar and Tuaran received certificates of appreciation for promoting the Education Savings Club Module in schools, in support of the Malaysian Education Blueprint 2013–2025. Prizes were also awarded to winners of the Simpan SSPN colouring, cultural and Action Song competitions held earlier in the day.
UAE Moments
30-05-2025
- Entertainment
- UAE Moments
Remembering Freddie Aguilar - Filipino Music Legend's Legacy
Freddie Aguilar, the iconic Filipino folk singer, passed away at the age of 72, leaving behind a powerful legacy etched in the heart of the nation. Known for his deeply emotional and socially conscious songs, Aguilar was more than a musician—he was a voice for the people. His music continues to echo the soul of the Filipino experience. Early Life and Musical Roots Ferdinand Pascual Aguilar, known globally as Freddie Aguilar, was born on February 5, 1953, in Isabela, Philippines. Raised in a musically inclined family, he learned to play the guitar by age nine and began writing songs in his teens. Despite parental pressure to finish college and become a lawyer, Aguilar dropped out to follow his dream of becoming a musician. His early life struggles would later inform the powerful emotional themes in his music, particularly those relating to family, identity, and social hardship. Breakthrough with 'Anak' Aguilar achieved meteoric fame in 1978 with the release of 'Anak' (meaning 'Child'), a song inspired by his regrets and reconciliation with his parents. Translated into over 20 languages Sold over 30 million copies worldwide Considered the most commercially successful Philippine song ever A staple in Filipino households and karaoke bars globally 'Anak' touched on themes of remorse, gratitude, and familial love—emotions that transcended borders and languages. Champion of Social and Political Causes Freddie Aguilar was more than just a singer; he was a voice for the people. During the Marcos dictatorship, his music became a rallying cry for those resisting oppression. Notable examples of his activism include: Performing 'Bayan Ko', which became a protest anthem during Martial Law Writing songs that highlighted the struggles of the marginalized, such as 'Mindanao' and 'Magdalena' Using folk and rock music as tools for social commentary He firmly believed that music should not only entertain but also enlighten and provoke thought. Contributions to Original Pilipino Music (OPM) A pioneer in the OPM movement, Aguilar encouraged Filipino musicians to embrace their roots and create music that resonated with the local culture. His contributions include: Over a dozen studio albums rich in Filipino storytelling Recognition from the Awit Awards and other cultural institutions Mentorship and collaboration with younger Filipino artists Aguilar's music fused traditional Filipino sounds with modern folk and rock, creating a unique and lasting musical identity. Legacy and Passing Freddie Aguilar passed away surrounded by family, leaving behind a rich legacy of heartfelt music and courageous activism. His passing was mourned across the Philippines and by fans worldwide. He leaves us with: Timeless songs that continue to influence generations A model of how art can be used for advocacy A legacy rooted in sincerity, courage, and cultural pride Though he is no longer with us, Freddie Aguilar's voice continues to echo in the soul of the Filipino people. Freddie Aguilar's legacy transcends music; he was a voice for the voiceless and a symbol of Filipino pride. His songs continue to inspire, comfort, and provoke thought across generations. As the melodies of 'Anak' and 'Bayan Ko' live on, so does the spirit of a man who used music to move a nation. His voice remains timeless.
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GMA Network
29-05-2025
- Entertainment
- GMA Network
Freddie Aguilar's wife Jovie Albao mourns passing of OPM icon
Jovie Albao is mourning the death of her husband Freddie Aguilar. On Facebook, Jovie shared a photo of herself standing at Freddie's grave site and wrote a heartfelt message for the OPM icon. 'I understand that the hardest night for a person is the first night in the grave. However, I am not here out of worry. I am confident that, due to your faith in Allah, your first night was peaceful. I am here to rest,' she wrote. According to Jovie, she tried to sleep in their home but with Freddie gone, it doesn't feel like home anymore. 'I know you said 'don't cry' the night before you [left], but just like I tend to cry more when you console me, I will shed a few more tears today, tomorrow, and every time I think of you until I can smile again when I think of you,' she added. Freddie died of multiple organ failure on May 27. He was 72 years old. The Filipino singer and songwriter is survived by Jovie, as well as his four children from his previous marriage: Maegan, Jonan, Isabella, and Jeriko. Considered an icon of OPM, Aguilar is best known for his hit song 'Anak' which became an international hit and was translated into multiple languages. His other songs include 'Bulag, Pipi At Bingi,' "Mindanao," "Katarungan," and 'Magdalena,' among many others. — Jade Veronique Yap/LA, GMA Integrated News
The Star
29-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Star
‘Anak' singer Freddie Aguilar dies aged 72
Filipino singer-songwriter Freddie Aguilar, best known for his chart-topping international hit Anak, died in Manila aged 72, local media reported. He had been receiving treatment at the Philippine Heart Center, according to social media posts by his wife, Jovie Albao-Aguilar. Aguilar was one of the leaders of the locally based Original Pilipino Music movement of the 1970s, and was known for his political activism, often tackling social issues through song. In the 1980s, he lent his voice to the People Power Movement that overthrew then-dictator Ferdinand Marcos, with his rendition of the traditional patriotic ballad Bayan Ko (My Country) serving as an anthem. In a special 2018 resolution, the Philippine Senate lauded him for 'lifetime outstanding contributions to Philippine arts and culture.' Anak, a Tagalog-language song about the struggles of raising a problematic child, sold more than 30 million copies. — AFP
Filipino Times
28-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Filipino Times
OPM icon Freddie Aguilar dies at 72 due to multiple organ failure
Filipino music legend Freddie Aguilar has passed away at the age of 72 due to multiple organ failure. The news was confirmed by his former partner, Josephine Quiepo, in a message relayed by host Boy Abunda on 'Fast Talk with Boy Abunda.' 'Pumanaw na po ang OPM icon na si Freddie Aguilar sa edad na 72. Kinumpirma po ito sa amin ng kaniyang ex-partner at ina ni Maegan Aguilar na si Josephine,' Abunda said. He added that Aguilar died Monday night at the Philippine Heart Center. Aguilar's wife, Jovie Albao, had previously posted updates from the hospital and expressed gratitude to those who offered prayers and concern for the singer's condition. Freddie Aguilar is survived by his wife Jovie and his four children from a previous marriage: Maegan, Jonan, Isabella, and Jeriko. A towering figure in Original Pilipino Music (OPM), Aguilar is best remembered for his song 'Anak,' which gained international recognition and was translated into several languages. His other notable works include 'Bulag, Pipi At Bingi,' 'Mindanao,' 'Katarungan,' and 'Magdalena.'
