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IOL News
5 days ago
- General
- IOL News
Manenberg's vibrant clean-up initiative marks World Peace anniversary
Residents from Manenberg cleaning the field Image: Supplied The community of Manenberg came alive recently as residents, local officials, and peace advocates gathered to commemorate the 12th Anniversary of the Declaration of World Peace by HWPL. This energetic community clean-up and engagement event was co-hosted by HWPL, Gun Free South Africa, the Lerato Family Foundation, Soka Gakkai International, the International Peace Youth Group (IPYG), and the International Women's Peace Group (IWPG). As part of the ambitious 'Peace My City' campaign, the gathering marked the second Peace Zone initiative in Cape Town's high-crime areas this May. The day was filled with a palpable sense of unity and purpose. Participants were generously served meals donated by the Food for Life Initiative from the Hare Krishna movement, complemented by refreshments provided by the Mustadafin Foundation. Designed as more than just a symbolic gesture, the initiative aimed to unite citizens and exemplify the true meaning of peace through community action and sustainable development. Supported by Ward Councillor Deidree de Vos, local NGOs, and revered religious leaders, residents banded together with a shared vision of reclaiming public spaces for safety, youth development, and a long-lasting transformation within their community. The event drew a notable crowd, including Councillor Axolile Notywala, fostering an atmosphere of hope and collaboration. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad Loading Volunteers cleaning the area in Manenberg Image: Supplied The clean-up was effectively coordinated by the Peace My City Committee, prominently featuring Councillor Mzwakhe Nqavashe and former editor Aziz Hartley, who ensured seamless participation from the community. This initiative arose in response to expressed desires for hands-on peacebuilding activities, particularly following recent community dialogues addressing gender-based violence and peace education. In a heartfelt moment, Patsy Daniels articulated her emotional connection to the event, underscoring community ownership in maintaining cleanliness in their neighbourhood. Her spirits were lifted upon learning that six local officials would be appointed to help manage waste and curb illegal dumping. Volunteers receiving food at the food distribution point Image: Suppled Nqavashe conveyed optimism about the growing impact of the Peace My City Project, noting how an increasing number of community members are stepping forward. He encouraged everyone to commit just a few hours over the weekend to help keep public spaces safe and clean. One local resident, inspired by the volunteers' efforts, issued a call to action for the rest of the community to join in, linking a cleaner environment to enhanced safety and crime reduction. Hartley lauded the dedication exhibited by the volunteers, emphasising the need for collective responsibility. 'It doesn't matter who made the mess,' he said, 'what matters is that we did our part.' This sentiment resonated with many, as the clean-up not only beautified the area but also fostered a renewed spirit of communal responsibility. A group picture of some of the volunteers who help with the cleanup in Manenberg Image: Supplied The resulting Peace Zone will serve as a community-owned haven for sports, cultural activities, and inclusive dialogue essentials, responding strategically to decades of violence and social instability. As part of HWPL's Legislate Peace campaign, this collective effort reinforces cross-sector partnerships throughout the city, showcasing the transformative power of grassroots peacebuilding.
Borneo Post
29-05-2025
- General
- Borneo Post
HWPL's programme in Kuching highlights unity through ‘steps of peace' movement
The participants make their way to the bridge from the starting point at the Kuching Waterfront Amphitheatre. KUCHING (May 30): Over 200 participants gathered at the Waterfront Amphitheatre here recently for the 'Steps of Peace: Peace for Unity Walk', organised by Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL) in collaboration with the i-CATS University College (I-CATS). The event was held in conjunction with the 12th Annual Commemoration of the Declaration of World Peace. It brought together youth leaders, students, local politicians, educators, and members of civil societies. In his speech for the opening ceremony, Batu Kitang assemblyman Dato Lo Khere Chiang highlighted the importance of civic unity and thus, he lauded any initiative aimed at fostering a culture of peace. 'Peace is not just about preventing conflicts; peace is about promoting connection. 'It is about choosing empathy over ego. It's about building bridges instead of walls,' he called upon those participating. Moreover, Lo also emphasised that peace must begin at the individual level. 'It doesn't begin on the international stage; rather, it's right here with each of us in the way that we treat our neighbours, how we speak to one another, and how we listen with care.' Following a simple flag-off, the participants made their way along the waterfront, heading to the iconic Darul Hana Bridge, which the HWPL hailed as an apt symbol of unity among Sarawak's diverse communities. The atmosphere was both celebratory and reflective, with cultural performances and interactive peace-building activities included that encouraged meaningful participation and connection among those joining the peace walk. Lo (second right) leads the contingent for the walk along the Darul Hana Bridge. When met by The Borneo Post after the walk, Loretta Cheremai Kong, a teacher from SK Pudu, shared her reflections. 'Malaysia is a peaceful country – we don't encounter war or guns. 'So I think this world peace movement is a really good step to spread peace to other parts of the world. 'One thing that we can improve is to not focus on our differences; rather, we should look at what unites us to promote peace. 'Even though we come from different cultures and beliefs, this shows that we can move forward together toward a better future.' As the co-host of the event, ICATS brought in its students who actively took part in the accompanying activities. The deputy vice chancellor (industry and community engagement) Prof Leo Sing Lim hailed the peace walk as 'a very meaningful platform', especially in view of Kuching being known as a 'city of unity'. 'We walk for unity, and we show the community that unity is very important. 'Events like this raise awareness and remind us that peace and harmony must be continuously nurtured through education and collaboration.' The Kuching event was part of a worldwide initiative led by the HWPL to commemorate the Declaration of World Peace. For this year, the movement has reached 94 locations across 61 countries, drawing participation from over 1,600 public figures and 10,000 global citizens. Some participants carry the batik banner, spanning six feet (over 180cm) in length, which was especially made for the peace walk. Originally proclaimed in Seoul, South Korea, on May 25, 2013, by HWPL chairman Man Hee Lee, the Declaration of World Peace calls for global cooperation to end war and promote peace. Since then, annual peace walks have been taking place across continents to raise awareness and inspire action. At the previous 10th anniversary of the Declaration, Lee stated that after 'declaring peace on Earth to achieve it together', he travelled around the world for the advocacy of peace. 'I called for peace to be taught at home and in school, and for everyone to become a messenger of peace. 'We need to be united under the title of peace and work together to create a better world and leave it as a legacy for future generations. 'This is our mission in the times we live in.' The participants gather for a group photo, with the State Legislative Assembly Complex in the background. This year's global commemorations include peace education programmes, interfaith dialogues, and grassroots community initiatives – all aimed at cultivating in those involved – and hopefully, everyone – civic responsibility and mutual understanding. 'The movement continues to advocate for sustainable peace through youth and women's empowerment, international cooperation, and legal instruments such as the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW),' said HWPL in an issued statement. Declaration of World Peace Kuching lead Peace for Unity Walk
Borneo Post
23-05-2025
- General
- Borneo Post
Community work in Semeba out to protect Sarawak's geo-heritage
The volunteers conduct clean-up works on a section of Syis Tuang Semeba surrounding the 250-million-year-old rock formation in the area. KUCHING (May 24): A 'gotong-royong' (work party) involving over 100 volunteers at Syis Tuang Semeba (formerly known as Kampung Semeba) near here recently, culminated in the collection of rubbish weighing more than 200 kilogrammes. Organised by Kuching Resident's Office and the Geopark Community, in collaboration with a non-governmental organisation (NGO) Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL), the clean-up initiative focused on sections surrounding a 250-million-year-old rock formation in the area, believed to be the oldest of its kind in the region. Batu Kitang assemblyman Dato Lo Khere Chiang, who officiated at the programme's opening ceremony, emphasised the significance of the site. 'We are happy and proud to have the oldest rock, 250 million years old, in Semeba. 'We are expecting that it will be recognised by Unesco (United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization) and become a Unesco Heritage Geological Geopark. 'The status would ensure that it would be preserved for everybody to see, study and admire, and also for it to promote tourism,' he said in a brief speech. In her remarks, HWPL volunteer Ning Bong hailed the 'gotong-royong' as not only a practical environmental initiative, but also as a symbol of civic unity and pride in Sarawak's natural history. 'We're truly grateful to YB Lo for giving us this opportunity. 'It allows us not only to contribute, but also to learn and discover the treasures of our land. Kuching Resident Dayang Joanita Azizah Abang Morshidi (third left) presents a memento to Lo, as Ning (left) and others look on. 'Through this 'gotong-royong', we have come to see that even a small act of service can help protect something so ancient and meaningful. 'The HWPL hopes to continue reaching out and serving communities with love and peace. 'This 'gotong-royong' reflects the strength of community spirit, where unity and shared effort create a lasting impact. 'Together, participants not only cleaned the site but also helped protect its heritage for future generations,' said Ning. geopark gotong-royong lead Syis Tuang Semeba
Borneo Post
19-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Borneo Post
Special batik banner ready for ‘525 Peace Walk' in Kuching
Lo applies colour onto his design on the banner, as (from right) Yeo, Adrienne and Chong look on. KUCHING (May 20): A batik-making workshop here recently produced a special-themed banner meant for the Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL)'s '525 Peace Walk' in the city, set for flag-off at the Kuching Waterfront's Amphitheatre this Sunday (May 25). Themed 'Steps of Peace: Peace Walk for Unity', this annual programme is organised by the HWPL, and it aims to unite individuals, families and civil societies to walk together for peace, understanding and sustainable coexistence. Measuring six feet (over 180cm) in length, the batik banner stands as a collaborative creation symbolising unity and harmony, as well as the creativity and teamwork of all those attending the workshop here, which was facilitated by Within Arts Reach, in collaboration with the International Peace Youth Group (IPYG) and 11 Ridgeway. During the hands-on session, the participants learned to sketch the original designs, handle various types of 'canting' (hot wax applicator) tools, apply the basic colour theory, and use batik dyes to complete their artwork. 'The activity served both as an introduction to traditional techniques and as a reflection of Malaysia's cultural diversity and shared heritage,' said the HWPL in a statement issued at the start of the workshop. Photo shows some of the batik pieces made by the workshop participants. Within Arts Reach founder and facilitator Adrienne Marcus Raja remarked: 'I started this batik workshop series to explore the art in a relaxed, personal space – where creativity could flow without the pressure of perfection; for new friendships to form naturally; and for some to revisit the batik that they remember from school. 'Also, there were others who discovered it for the first time. 'I believe that every single art form should be encouraged to be accessible for those interested, and batik is no exception.' In her statement, IPYG representative Amelia Yeo said: 'Although the number of participants was small, we hope to continue this workshop in the future to further promote the cultural appreciation and also strengthen the understanding of Malaysia's rich heritage. 'We'd also like to thank Within Arts Reach for their collaboration, which allowed us to promote peace through cultural activities at the same time. 'We look forward to expanding such initiatives with broader community participation.' Yeo (left) and Adrienne (third right) in a photo-call with some of the workshop participants. In a special show of support, Batu Kitang assemblyman Dato Lo Khere Chiang also attended the workshop held at the 11 Ridgeway premises along Jalan Ong Tiang Swee here, and contributed a drawing to the batik banner. He was accompanied by Councillor Alvin Chong, also the Youth chief for the Batu Kitang branch of Sarawak United People's Party (SUPP). Those interested in joining the HWPL 525 Peace Walk here this Sunday, should contact Yeo via 016-800 0117 to know more. Arts and Culture batik lead Peace Walk workshop
Borneo Post
26-04-2025
- General
- Borneo Post
Youth volunteers clean up Santubong's Pasir Panjang beach in Earth Day drive for a greener Sarawak
The youth volunteers gather for a group photo at Pasir Panjang in Santubong. KUCHING (April 27): A group of youth volunteers joined hands to clean up Pasir Panjang beach at Santubong near here recently, highlighting the power of community-led action in preserving sites of natural beauty in Sarawak. The programme was run in connection with Earth Day, celebrated globally on April 22 every year. The initiative, spearheaded by the Malaysia Chapter of the Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL), brought together young people with a mission of removing unsightly litter from the shoreline. In just a few hours, the team collected waste, including plastic bottles, food wrappers and other non-biodegradable materials, which threatened marine ecosystems and the coastal environment. 'Earth Day serves as a reminder of the urgent need to protect our planet from pollution, climate change, and environmental degradation. 'It is a day when individuals, communities, and organisations across the world take part in green initiatives to show their commitment to sustainability. 'Hosting a beach clean-up on this day adds deeper meaning, as it symbolises the shared responsibility of all people, especially youth, to be stewards of the Earth. 'Malaysia's beaches are treasures that must be protected. Through activities like this, we hope to inspire more young people to care for our environment,' said HWPL Malaysia representative when met at the beach. The clean-up not only contributed to the upkeep of one of Sarawak's beloved beach destinations, but also promoted environmental awareness and responsibility among youths coming from diverse backgrounds. Muhammad Nasir Said, head manager of Long Beach, remarked: 'Many people come here, and what we often see is rubbish – plastic, motor parts, and so on. 'Even though we provide rubbish bins, I feel it's still not enough because there are just too many people coming. 'We are grateful and welcome more organisations to come and do beach-cleaning here – just let us know in advance so we can coordinate and avoid any clashes.' This grassroots initiative underscored HWPL Malaysia's commitment to nurturing civic-minded youths who take ownership of their communities. 'The organisation believes that small acts, when multiplied by many, can lead to significant positive change,' said the representative. The HWPL is an international non-governmental organisation (NGO) focused on peace-building through dialogues, education, and volunteerism. In Malaysia, the movement works closely with youths, faith groups, and civil societies in promoting a culture of peace, unity and sustainability. beach cleanup Earth Day lead Pasir Panjang santubong youth
