Latest news with #Programmes
Malaysian Reserve
7 days ago
- General
- Malaysian Reserve
JAIS denies approving controversial marriage motivation programme in 2022
THE Selangor Islamic Religious Department (JAIS) has denied granting approval to the organiser of a marriage motivation programme that allegedly featured immoral content in another programme three years ago. Its director, Datuk Mohd Shahzihan Ahmad (picture) said on Nov 15, 2022, a Clarification Panel appointed by JAIS had obtained an explanation from the organiser following complaints from participants alleging that there were activities that violated Islamic teachings. He said during the clarification session, the panel was presented with a video used by the organiser, which included a 'self-pleasure' technique for women, allegedly to strengthen marital intimacy. Following this, the panel recommended that several aspects and approaches in the programme be revised or removed if they conflicted with Islamic law. The company was also advised to consult religious authorities or experts to ensure full compliance with Islamic law throughout its programmes. 'The organiser was also instructed to include a disclaimer stating that the video (which the panel had instructed to be revised) was intended for use by married couples only,' he said. 'This advice was given to the organiser as a preventive measure against the inclusion of any content that contravenes Islamic law,' he said in a statement today. Mohd Shahzihan clarified that the disclaimer suggested by the panel did not imply that the programme's entire content or modules had been approved, as the company never submitted the complete module to JAIS following the panel's recommendations to this day. 'JAIS is confident that had the company adhered to the recommendations made by the panel in 2022, the alleged incident during the programme held at the IDCC Shah Alam (Ideal Convention Centre Shah Alam) would not have occurred,' he said. In line with the decision of the Selangor Islamic Religious Council (MAIS), he said JAIS has been tasked with reviewing and improving the Guidelines for Organising Islamic Religious and Spiritual Programmes by considering various incidents, including this case, that have drawn public criticism. The revised guidelines aim to provide a more comprehensive reference for organisers wishing to hold programmes with spiritual or religious elements in Selangor. 'JAIS urges the Muslim community in Selangor to continue playing an active role by providing information and reporting any religious or spiritual programmes with suspicious content to the department. 'Accurate information from the public is crucial to help JAIS safeguard the principles and implementation of authentic Islamic teachings in line with the understanding of Ahli Sunnah Wal Jamaah in Selangor,' he added. Previously, the company in question issued a statement claiming that its 2022 programme had received JAIS' approval after submitting clarifications to the state's religious authority. On July 12, Mohd Shahzihan confirmed in a statement that JAIS had summoned the organiser of the marriage motivation programme in 2022 following a complaint from a former participant, who alleged that the module used in the programme was inappropriate and unsuitable. — BERNAMA
Yahoo
30-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Plan B for the Ultra-Rich: Why Global Citizenship Is Now a Strategic Asset
The ultra-wealthy are seeking more than just financial diversification, they want freedom, security, and control over their futures. Increasingly, that means investing in a second passport which is now considered a necessity among the ultra-wealthy. According to Armand Arton, CEO of global advisory firm Arton Capital, second residencies or passports are no longer simply lifestyle upgrades, they're strategic investments. 'A second residency or citizenship has become one of the most coveted assets among the ultra-wealthy,' Arton explains. 'It's driven by ambitions for improved mobility, security, and futureproofing. For many, it's a hedge against uncertainty.' Once the domain of jetsetters seeking easier travel, second citizenship has evolved into a powerful tool of geopolitical insurance. But mobility is only one piece of the puzzle. 'Acquiring a European Golden Visa, for example, grants access to the Schengen Zone and Europe's most dynamic markets. This empowers high-net-worth individuals to expand their businesses, explore new opportunities, and enjoy unrestricted travel,' says Arton. But the motivations go deeper. Security, both personal and financial has become paramount. 'Elections, pandemics, and the climate crisis serve as a stark reminder of how quickly freedoms can be revoked and situations can change,' he adds. 'Second residencies and citizenships now act as a crucial hedge against geopolitical uncertainty and economic instability.' Over the past ten years, demand for second citizenships has surged, particularly in response to crises. 'Each year, interest in Golden Visa and Citizenship by Investment Programmes grows by around 15–20%,' Arton notes. 'The conflict in Ukraine and the outbreak of Covid-19 were major catalysts. And we're likely to see a similar uptick in response to tensions currently gripping the Middle East.' What's more, the industry itself has evolved. 'It has matured. Programmes are becoming more tailored to each country's needs. There are a large number available investors are spoilt for choice.' Arton predicts similar trends will follow in response to rising tensions in the Middle East and elsewhere. 'Savvy investors are always looking ahead. When uncertainty spikes, demand for second citizenship rises with it.' While financial advantages are often cited, Arton stresses that wealth migration isn't solely about reducing tax burdens. 'There's a common misconception that taxation is the main driver. In reality, clients are usually motivated by freedom, security, or a lifestyle upgrade.' Still, taxation can play a role, especially in countries where citizenship programmes offer favourable treatment. 'Latvia, for example, has a 20% capital gains tax and no wealth tax for non-residents. Italy offers a flat-tax option on foreign income,' says Arton. 'But benefits vary based on an investor's home country. American citizens, for instance, are still taxed on their worldwide income, no matter where they live.' As the investment migration industry matures, it's also integrating more deeply into wealth management strategies. No longer seen as a fringe add-on, global citizenship is now a pillar of high-net-worth planning. 'It complements traditional financial planning by offering geographical diversification, market access, and personal security,' Arton explains. Clients often invest in real estate or government funds to qualify. 'These investments not only diversify portfolios but also shield assets from economic volatility. Perhaps most importantly, they provide long-term benefits for family members from access to healthcare and education, to global mobility.' This isn't just about protecting money, it's about preserving legacy. Arton Capital positions itself not just as a facilitator, but as a thought leader. 'We've advised over 13 governments on citizenship and visa policy. We want investment migration to benefit both our clients and the host countries,' says Arton. That level of influence means Arton Capital has a hand in shaping how programmes are designed and how they function ensuring they benefit both investors and host countries. He notes, 'We want to be at the forefront of this evolution.' The real power of second citizenship becomes most visible in moments of crisis. Arton recalls one case from recent years: 'During the political unrest in Hong Kong, where protestors clashed with police and uncertainty loomed, we helped a client gain citizenship in Antigua. With his new passport, he relocated almost immediately, avoided the fallout, and continued operating his business from a stable environment.' That kind of agility, the ability to move, adapt, and safeguard your family or business is the ultimate utility of investment migration. One of Arton Capital's most recent initiatives saw the firm collaborate with Techcombank Private, one of Vietnam's largest banks, on a series of 'Wealth Management and Global Investment Opportunity' seminars. 'We were selected as their exclusive strategic adviser,' says Arton. 'Vietnam's HNWIs are increasingly looking for global diversification, and we helped educate their teams on how second citizenship fits into that strategy.' With most of Vietnam's wealthy banking through Techcombank, the partnership made sense. 'They're seeing major growth in their foreign exchange business VND 100bn last year, aiming for 500bn in 2025, and 1,00bn by 2026. These citizenship services are key drivers in that FX growth.' Looking ahead, Arton Capital is turning its focus toward other fast-growing Asian markets. 'We're especially interested in Thailand, Cambodia, and Malaysia,' Arton says. 'These countries have a growing upper-middle class and high-net-worth population. Many are now seeking outbound mobility.' At the same time, these countries are developing their own inbound residency programmes like Thailand's Elite Visa and Malaysia's 'My Second Home' scheme, suggesting strong potential both for incoming and outgoing investment. More broadly, the forces driving demand for second citizenship show no signs of slowing. 'With a geopolitical crisis unfolding in the Middle East, economic uncertainty across global markets, and ongoing political turmoil, the demand for a 'Plan B' has never been greater,' Arton concludes. "Plan B for the Ultra-Rich: Why Global Citizenship Is Now a Strategic Asset" was originally created and published by Private Banker International, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site.
Zawya
27-01-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Egypt's President reviews strategic food stock, preparations for Ramadan
Egypt's President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi held a meeting to follow up on the status of Egypt's strategic stock of goods and food items, focusing on efforts to increase reserves, provide products at reduced prices, and ensure market organization in preparation for the upcoming Ramadan. The meeting, held on Sunday, included Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly, Minister of Supply and Internal Trade Sherif Farouk, Ahmed El-Shazly, Head of the Armed Forces Financial Affairs Authority, and Bahaa El-Ghannam, Executive Director of the Future of Egypt for Sustainable Development Agency. During the meeting, President Al-Sisi emphasized the importance of continuing efforts to ease the financial burden on citizens, ensuring sufficient reserves of essential goods and distributing them at discounted prices. He also highlighted the need to maintain ongoing initiatives that support vulnerable groups, particularly during Ramadan. The President stressed the importance of collaboration with the private sector to provide high-quality products at reasonable prices. Mohamed El-Shenawy, the official spokesperson for the presidency, explained that the meeting also covered expanding social protection networks, reviewing the reform and restructuring of the support system to ensure it reaches those in need while excluding ineligible recipients. Special emphasis was placed on including beneficiaries of the 'Takaful and Karama' Programmes and the children of martyrs in this system. In addition, discussions focused on the activation of the commodity exchange, which plays a crucial role in achieving food security and ensuring the sustainability of affordable basic commodities. The President underlined the strategic importance of the commodity exchange in reducing monopolistic practices and promoting fair pricing. President Al-Sisi also reiterated Egypt's goal of becoming a regional logistics hub for strategic commodity trading, which would bolster the country's economic standing at both regional and international levels. The Minister of Supply and Internal Trade provided an update on the country's strategic reserves, which are sufficient to cover six months of supply. The President called for further efforts to ensure sustainable food security, increase reserves, and enhance market control to prevent the monopolization of essential goods. Finally, Al-Sisi directed the development of integrated policies to improve production efficiency, minimize waste, and strengthen supply chains. These measures aim to ensure equitable access to food while encouraging private sector involvement in achieving market stability and improving the quality of food products.
Daily News Egypt
26-01-2025
- Business
- Daily News Egypt
Al-Sisi reviews strategic food stock, preparations for Ramadan
Egypt's President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi held a meeting to follow up on the status of Egypt's strategic stock of goods and food items, focusing on efforts to increase reserves, provide products at reduced prices, and ensure market organization in preparation for the upcoming Ramadan. The meeting, held on Sunday, included Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly, Minister of Supply and Internal Trade Sherif Farouk, Ahmed El-Shazly, Head of the Armed Forces Financial Affairs Authority, and Bahaa El-Ghannam, Executive Director of the Future of Egypt for Sustainable Development Agency. During the meeting, President Al-Sisi emphasized the importance of continuing efforts to ease the financial burden on citizens, ensuring sufficient reserves of essential goods and distributing them at discounted prices. He also highlighted the need to maintain ongoing initiatives that support vulnerable groups, particularly during Ramadan. The President stressed the importance of collaboration with the private sector to provide high-quality products at reasonable prices. Mohamed El-Shenawy, the official spokesperson for the presidency, explained that the meeting also covered expanding social protection networks, reviewing the reform and restructuring of the support system to ensure it reaches those in need while excluding ineligible recipients. Special emphasis was placed on including beneficiaries of the 'Takaful and Karama' Programmes and the children of martyrs in this system. In addition, discussions focused on the activation of the commodity exchange, which plays a crucial role in achieving food security and ensuring the sustainability of affordable basic commodities. The President underlined the strategic importance of the commodity exchange in reducing monopolistic practices and promoting fair pricing. President Al-Sisi also reiterated Egypt's goal of becoming a regional logistics hub for strategic commodity trading, which would bolster the country's economic standing at both regional and international levels. The Minister of Supply and Internal Trade provided an update on the country's strategic reserves, which are sufficient to cover six months of supply. The President called for further efforts to ensure sustainable food security, increase reserves, and enhance market control to prevent the monopolization of essential goods. Finally, Al-Sisi directed the development of integrated policies to improve production efficiency, minimize waste, and strengthen supply chains. These measures aim to ensure equitable access to food while encouraging private sector involvement in achieving market stability and improving the quality of food products.
