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Sinar Daily
14 hours ago
- General
- Sinar Daily
Early exposure to sexuality in schools sparks worry among parents abroad
IN a quiet suburb of a Western country thousands of kilometres from home, a Malaysian mother of two juggles the everyday demands of parenthood - but her greatest concern isn't about groceries or the cost of living. It's about values. With two young children under the age of five, the mother - who requested anonymity for privacy reasons is caught in the crosscurrents of modern education and personal conviction. Her daughter, barely four, currently attends a private religious kindergarten. It's a costly decision, one that weighs heavily on the family's finances. But it's a choice she stands by, even if it means tightening their belts. 'I actually want to send my daughter to a public school, of course, it's more affordable. "But I fear what she might be exposed to, she told Sinar Daily recently Her hesitation stems from the fact that, in many parts of the Western education system, discussions on sexuality, gender identity and LGBTQ+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender) themes are introduced as early as four years old. This approach, especially in the Western world, meant to promote inclusivity and acceptance, is viewed by many as progressive and necessary. For this Malaysian mother, however, it raises deeply personal and cultural questions. 'My general concern is exposing kids so early on about LGBT and multiple genders as part of the education system. 'While being inclusive and accepting of the LGBTQ and multiple gender community in our society is important, we must also find the balance to respect other people's religion and beliefs,' she said. She makes it clear she is not against co-existence or acceptance. In fact, her own circle of friends includes members of the LGBTQ community. 'Some of my very close friends and colleagues are part of the LGBTQ community, but we learn to accept each other's differences and respect each other's values. 'There is absolutely no condemning of each other's beliefs, values or religions… as long as we learn to live with each other,' she said. But where she draws the line is the idea of early, structured exposure to topics on sexuality in schools. A man wearing a mask takes part in the formation of the world's biggest LGBT pride flag at Zocalo Square in Mexico City, Mexico, on June 22, 2025. (Photo by Rodrigo Oropeza / AFP) 'I can't force people to convert to Christianity or impose my religious values on them. I would expect the same from the LGBTQ community. 'We live in a very diverse community. We learn to live together peacefully and respectfully. We acknowledge they exist, but in no way do I need the government or school or someone to intentionally expose my children to their sexuality at such a young age,' she said. For now, the private kindergarten remains her family's middle ground. A compromise between embracing diversity and preserving the religious framework she wants her children to grow up with. But the looming question of public school still hangs over her. As her children grow and education becomes more structured, she knows more difficult decisions lie ahead. Raising children has become not just a matter of nurturing but navigating religious and cultural values. Unfortunately, this mother is not the only one experiencing mixed emotions over inclusivity, acceptance and early exposure. Two more Malaysian mothers living in North America shares similar sentiments. Both women - Muslims, said they were still figuring out the best way forward before their children enters formal education, in Malaysian terms 'Standard 1'. For these mothers, returning to Malaysia where things are much more conservative and discussions on sexuality and multiple genders are still a taboo, remains a distance. One mother said: 'For now, we will have to educate and impart knowledge and values the best way possible, may they remember our beliefs and the right way to handle things', adding that although Islam does acknowledge intersex (khans) or ambiguous genitalia, there is a way to approach things.
Sinar Daily
3 days ago
- Lifestyle
- Sinar Daily
[LIFE & STYLE PODCAST] Infertility & IVF: The Journey, The Science, The Hope
26 Jun 2025 09:33am Did you know one in six people struggle with infertility, but hardly anyone talks about it? In this episode of the Life & Style Podcast, we're breaking the silence with Dr Natasha Ain Mohd Nor, a fertility expert who has walked this path herself. From IUI and IVF to egg freezing and lifestyle tips, Dr Natasha spills the facts, busts the myths and gets real about how age, stress and modern living impact our chances of conceiving, especially in today's Malaysian society. Watch it now on our website YouTube and Facebook and don't forget to like, share and subscribe for more powerful stories and real talk! #Infertility #IVFMalaysia #FertilityAwareness #DrNatashaAin #SinarDaily #LifeStylePodcast #IVFJourney ------------------------------------------------- Be sure to join us at the Siang Malam Karangkraf Carnival – where the fun never stops! July 25–27 9am – 12 midnight Dataran Karangkraf, Seksyen 15, Shah Alam
Sinar Daily
5 days ago
- Health
- Sinar Daily
Understanding herpes risks for pregnant mothers and babies
The virus is highly contagious and can be transmitted through direct contact with an infected person's bodily fluids, including saliva or genital secretions. Neonatal herpes, a rare but potentially life-threatening condition, occurs when a newborn contracts the virus during delivery. - Photo illustrated by Sinar Daily SHAH ALAM – Herpes, caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), is a common viral infection presenting in two primary forms: HSV-1, typically linked to oral infections and HSV-2, which usually causes genital infections. The virus is highly contagious and can be transmitted through direct contact with an infected person's bodily fluids, including saliva or genital secretions. While herpes infections are often manageable, they can lead to severe complications, particularly for newborns. - 123RF photo While herpes infections are often manageable, they can lead to severe complications, particularly for newborns. Neonatal herpes, a rare but potentially life-threatening condition, occurs when a newborn contracts the virus during delivery. KPJ Damansara Obstetrics and Gynaecology specialist, Professor Dr Imelda Nasreen Nasruddin @ Balchin, shared a poignant case describing the dangers of neonatal herpes. "In 1999, I witnessed an 11-day-old baby brought into the emergency department, who sadly passed away. "A post-mortem revealed that the baby's liver was filled with herpes simplex virus infection, which was the cause of death," she shared in her Facebook post. Upon further investigation, she said the mother admitted to having experienced a genital herpes infection about a month before giving birth but had not informed the midwife. "Now, medical guidelines recommend that if a pregnant mother contracts a genital herpes simplex virus infection within six weeks before her due date, the advice is to deliver via Caesarean section to protect the baby from contracting HSV," she said. Genital herpes in pregnant women often goes unnoticed, as symptoms can range from painful sores to mild irritation or even no symptoms at all. What is Herpes? Herpes is classified into two primary types: HSV-1 (oral herpes): Commonly associated with cold sores or fever blisters around the mouth and face. HSV-2 (genital herpes): Typically affects the genital and anal areas but can also occur in other parts of the body. The virus is highly contagious and can be transmitted through direct contact with an infected individual, including kissing, sharing utensils, or sexual contact. Symptoms and Diagnosis While many infected individuals experience mild or no symptoms, others may have painful sores, itching, or burning sensations in affected areas. Recurrences are common, as the virus remains dormant in the body and can reactivate during periods of stress, illness, or weakened immunity. Diagnosis is often made through physical examinations and laboratory tests such as swabs from sores or blood tests. More Like This
Sinar Daily
5 days ago
- Business
- Sinar Daily
Green sukuk and Malaysia's climate leadership: An Islamic finance response to decarbonisation
Unlike conventional green bonds, green sukuk are underpinned by tangible assets, providing a unique layer of risk mitigation and investor confidence. By MUHAMMAD IRWAN ARIFFIN 23 Jun 2025 12:25pm Illustrative image by Sinar Daily MALAYSIA has made headlines with its recent announcement of RM43 billion in investment to upgrade the national power grid and facilitate offshore carbon capture and storage (CCS) initiatives. These efforts, aligned with Malaysia's commitment to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, mark a pivotal shift in energy and climate policy. Yet, such ambitions come with substantial financial demands. In navigating this challenge, Malaysia is uniquely positioned to champion a homegrown solution rooted in Islamic economics: the issuance of green sukuk. Green sukuk are Shariah-compliant bonds earmarked to finance environmentally sustainable projects. They combine ethical investing with Islamic principles, ensuring that proceeds are used exclusively for climate-positive and socially beneficial purposes. Unlike conventional green bonds, green sukuk are underpinned by tangible assets, providing a unique layer of risk mitigation and investor confidence. Malaysia has already been a pioneer in this domain. In 2017, it became the first country to issue a sovereign green sukuk to fund renewable energy projects. Since then, the sukuk market has grown steadily, but it remains underutilised in major public infrastructure and climate finance strategies. The RM43 billion decarbonisation initiative presents an ideal opportunity to reinvigorate this instrument. Illustrative image by Sinar Daily The benefits are twofold. First, issuing green sukuk diversifies funding sources and attracts both domestic and international investors seeking ESG-aligned and Shariah-compliant returns. Malaysia can tap into the growing appetite for ethical finance across the Middle East, Europe and Southeast Asia. Second, green sukuk provide a tangible demonstration of Islamic finance's role in advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in clean energy (SDG 7), climate action (SDG 13), and sustainable cities (SDG 11). Furthermore, the alignment between maqasid al-shariah (objectives of Islamic law) and environmental stewardship is evident. Islam promotes the protection of life, wealth and the environment. In this light, decarbonisation becomes not only an economic imperative but a moral and religious one. To move forward, policymakers should create incentives for green sukuk issuers, streamline regulatory processes, and strengthen verification frameworks to avoid greenwashing. Public-private partnerships, particularly with Islamic banks and waqf institutions, could further amplify the positive impact of green sukuk. In a world searching for climate solutions that are both ethical and inclusive, Malaysia has an opportunity to lead. Green sukuk could well be its powerful tool because it is financially sound, spiritually aligned and globally relevant. Assoc Prof Dr Muhammad Irwan Ariffin is attached to the Department of Economics, Kulliyyah of Economics and Management Sciences, International Islamic University Malaysia. The views expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the editorial position of Sinar Daily. More Like This
Sinar Daily
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Sinar Daily
My Dad, My Hero: Norman KRU on growing up and life lessons from his father
23 Jun 2025 09:55am From growing up with strong family values to navigating the ever-changing landscape of the entertainment industry, Datuk Norman Abdul Halim reflects on how his father's quiet strength became the foundation of his character. In a world where success is often measured by fame and fortune, Norman shares a more intimate narrative, one rooted in the unspoken wisdom and everyday sacrifices of a father who led by example. In this heartfelt and revealing conversation, Norman opens up about the principles his father instilled in him from a young age - honesty, discipline, humility, and hard work. These weren't just lessons preached, but values lived daily in the small, consistent ways that shaped Norman's outlook on life. Whether it was waking up early to help with chores or watching how his father treated others with kindness and respect, Norman learned that true leadership doesn't require a spotlight. As a member of the iconic KRU group and a pioneer in Malaysia's music and film industry, Norman faced intense public scrutiny, creative pressure, and business challenges. Yet through it all, it was his father's unwavering guidance that helped him stay grounded. He shares how those early teachings became his inner compass, steering him away from ego, reminding him of his roots, and encouraging him to uplift others along the way. This conversation is more than just a tribute to his father, it's a powerful reminder of how deeply parents shape the emotional and moral fabric of their children. It's also a call to appreciate the silent, steadfast presence of the men who raise us, those who don't always say much, but whose actions echo in our lives forever. #FathersDay #NormanKRU #MyDadMyHero #SinarDaily #KRU More Like This
