I remember the sunny afternoons when my dear grandmother would sit on our doorstep, her delicate hands clasped tightly in her lap, her eyes clouded with sorrow and puzzlement. In her late seventies, she often mourned the absence of her beloved family, the stillness of the house echoing her sense
‘Until one has loved an animal, a part of one’s soul remains unawakened.’ — Anatole France (1844–1924). He was a French poet, journalist, and novelist known for his wit, irony, and scepticism, often critiquing contemporary society and religion through his works. France received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1921.
‘The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.’ — Lao Tzu, also known as Laozi, an ancient Chinese philosopher and writer, traditionally considered the founder of Taoism (Daoism). He is best known for his work, the Tao Te Ching, a foundational text of Taoist philosophy. His teachings promote
‘The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.’ Martin Luther King Jr. (1929-1968). He was an influential American civil rights leader who played a crucial role in the American civil rights
I remember Uncle John boiling coffee in a tin pot on a rusty kerosene stove at midnight. It was odd and amazing how he always seemed to be cooking or frying something at such strange hours whenever I spent the night at his house in the southern end of our
Pilu was a man of unwavering resolve, a sturdy figure whose stoic demeanour often concealed the emotions that swirled beneath the surface. Known for his fierce disposition, he had earned a reputation that made many think twice before crossing him. I first encountered Pilu in 1960. I was just seven
‘Love recognizes no barriers. It jumps hurdles, leaps fences, penetrates walls to arrive at its destination full of hope.’ – Maya Angelou (1928-2014). She was an acclaimed American author, poet, and civil rights activist. She is best known for her series of autobiographies, which explore themes of identity, racism, family,
The provisions concerning constitutional amendments in Malaysia underscore specific considerations for the states of Sabah and Sarawak, particularly regarding their unique status and rights under the Malaysia Agreement 1963. Special Interests: When a proposed constitutional change impacts the distinct rights, borders, or privileges of Sabah and Sarawak as outlined in
‘To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.’ – Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803–1882). He was an American philosopher, essayist, and poet, best known as a central figure in the transcendentalist movement. He emphasised individualism, self-reliance, and the inherent goodness
In the late 1950s, when I was of preschool age but was not in school — because there was no preschool in our remote rural village — a ruffled, long-haired man frequently passed by our farmhouse. My family’s paddy farm was several miles from our village at the foot of
