Latest news with #Jumu'ah
IOL News
05-05-2025
- Business
- IOL News
Ebrahim Rasool says US foreign policy is driven by critical minerals, not oil
Former South African ambassador to the United States Ebrahim Rasool, has warned of rising global conflict over critical minerals and criticised US foreign policy. Former South African ambassador to the United States Ebrahim Rasool, expelled from Washington in March after accusing Donald Trump of promoting white supremacy, has warned that a new global conflict is underway, not over oil, but over critical minerals. Speaking at a Jumu'ah lecture at Masjidul Quds Institute in Cape Town recently, Rasool said: 'Let me give you an example, some statistics, the United States has identified 50 critical minerals for its immediate future if it is going to remain the leader and not cede leadership to China in the tech revolution. 'Of the 50, they are 100% dependent on other countries for 12 of those 50,' he continued. 'They are more than 50% dependent on 29 of those 50 minerals. And they are dependent on China for 13 of those. And China has captured 90% of the processing market for all of that.' Rasool tied the US response to this dependency to what he described as a militarised, resource-driven foreign policy. 'It's not that Donald Trump is suddenly waking up and saying, I hate Chinese because of this, that, and the other. It is because the tech robber barons have told him - You've got to go to war.' He pointed to South Africa's military involvement in the Democratic Republic of Congo as proof of its role in defending the continent's mineral wealth. 'South Africa showed when it lost 18 soldiers in the Eastern DRC, defending the critical minerals of the DRC, it showed its willingness to protect Africa, because Africa has 30% of the critical minerals of the world.' 'South Africa itself has 70% of the platinum critical minerals,' he added. 'No new car can be driven without platinum, because platinum is the core ingredient of catalytic converters.' He said that the world is entering a dangerous new phase, a 'scramble for critical minerals' that is driving global tensions and US foreign policy. 'This is not the scramble for oil,' Rasool said. 'This is the scramble for critical minerals.' He suggested that US interest in Arctic access, Greenland, and control of global trade routes was all part of this strategy. 'The whole issue of Canada - Canada has 30% of the world's critical minerals,' he said. 'It's not a joke about the 51st state. It's to beat them into submission.' He also criticised US actions around global shipping routes. 'The Panama Canal bombing the Houthis to make sure the Suez Canal always stays open so that it flows, the critical minerals flow through.' Rasool claimed that the US wants to ensure the Panama Canal 'never gets into hostile hands because the critical minerals have to flow.' 'My respected brothers and sisters, if we want to understand this changing, ominous global landscape, then be amused by the apparent madness, but look for the method in the madness.' Rasool was expelled from the US in March 2025 after accusing President Donald Trump of promoting white supremacy both at home and abroad, and drew attention to Vice President JD Vance's and Elon Musk's connections to far-right movements. This led to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio declaring Rasool persona non grata, calling him a 'race-baiting politician who hates America.' His diplomatic privileges were revoked, and he was given 72 hours to leave the country. The incident further strained already tense US and South Africa relations, which had been deteriorating over disagreements around South Africa's land reform program and its genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice. After arriving back in Cape Town, Western Cape, Rasool said he stood by his words. 'I have no regrets,' he said. 'This is a badge of dignity.' Meanwhile, President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed Mcebisi Jonas as South Africa's new Special Envoy to the United States, amid diplomatic tensions between the two countries. Jonas, who 'is entrusted with the responsibility to advance South Africa's diplomatic, trade and bilateral priorities' is a former Deputy Finance Minister, a statement issued by the Presidency said. His appointment comes as South Africa has been given a three-month breather to endeavour to negotiate better trade terms with the US than the initial 30% tariffs imposed by US Donald Trump as well as Ebrahim Rasool's expulsion last month. 'This appointment underscores his distinguished career and continued commitment to advancing South Africa's national and economic interests,' said the Presidency's statement. IOL Politics
Malay Mail
25-04-2025
- Politics
- Malay Mail
A noble statesman, a moral compass: Remembering Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi (1939–2025) — Iqbal Khan
APRIL 25 — Former (fifth) Prime Minister of Malaysia (2003–2009) Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi — affectionately known as 'Pak Lah' — was a gentle and soft-spoken man but led his nation with strength, dignity, humility, and a deep sense of moral responsibility. His legacy endures not only in public policy but in the quiet power of his presence, his character, and his humanity. Tun Abdullah governed Malaysia during a time of transition and promise. His tenure was marked by a gentler, more inclusive form of leadership — one that offered a striking contrast to the hard politics we see today. He articulated a vision of Islam Hadhari, a forward-looking and inclusive philosophy that emphasised knowledge, economic progress, social justice, and interfaith harmony. It positioned Malaysia as a global leader in principled and progressive Muslim leadership. As a reformer, Tun Abdullah prioritised clean government, institutional reform, and human capital development. His leadership fostered trust and transparency, championing civil service transformation, anti-corruption measures, and balanced growth. Even after relinquishing office, he left behind a standard for decency, modesty, and sincerity rarely matched in public life. I had the honour of meeting Tun Abdullah on multiple occasions that continue to resonate with me, not only for their historical significance but also for the personal wisdom and warmth they embodied. I first met with Tun Abdullah when I was still the Global CEO of HSBC Amanah, i.e. when Tun Abdullah came to the East London Mosque (ELM) – London Muslim Centre (LMC) for Jumu'ah prayers in July 2004 – the mosque brimmed with over 10,000 worshippers. I was honoured to welcome him and introduce him to East London's vibrant and diverse Muslim community. As we waited in the foyer, I told him that the stone laid beneath us had come from Jerusalem, via Jordan. He paused and gently said, 'Iqbal, I have never touched anything from Jerusalem.' He then bent down, touched the stone with reverence, and placed his hand on his eyes and heart. Members of his Cabinet, witnessing this moment, instinctively followed suit. It was a profound gesture — a statesman's quiet communion with the sacred. My next encounter with Tun Abdullah was on Merdeka Day on August 31, 2007, marking Malaysia's 50th year of independence. As a guest of a programme around the 3rd Khazanah Global Lecture hosted by Khazanah Nasional Berhad (which he chaired), I was honoured to witness and participate in a historical milestone for Malaysia. Armed Forces carrying former prime minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi's body to be laid in rest in the Heroes' Mausoleum here at National Mosque. — Picture by Sayuti Zainudin The atmosphere was electric — an inspiring blend of national pride and cosmopolitan inclusivity. It was a reflection of his vision: a confident, modern Malaysia rooted in its heritage but open to the world. That entire celebration bore Tun Abdullah's hallmark — humility, unity, and quiet conviction. I left feeling not only moved but inspired by the leadership emerging from Malaysia under his guidance. The following year, Tun Abdullah invited me for lunch at the Prime Minister's Box during the 2008 Formula 1 Petronas Malaysian Grand Prix at the Sepang International Circuit. Even in such a dynamic setting, his hospitality reflected deep values — there were prayer arrangements, a quiet meal, and an absence of ostentation. We spoke about fostering Gulf–Malaysia investment ties and the state of the global ummah. Years later, after Tun Abdullah stepped down from office, I was contacted by Tan Sri Azman Hj. Mokhtar to help arrange a visit for Tun Abdullah to the world's largest organic shrimp farm in Al-Lith, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It was scorching hot, yet he insisted on personally shaking hands with every worker. When I suggested he rest, he replied, 'They stand in this heat from morning to evening for their company. I can stand for a little while to honour them on behalf of Malaysia.' That single act — of empathy, humility, and honour — epitomised his soul. He was never one for theatrics, yet every gesture he made spoke volumes. Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi reminded us that leadership is not about domination, but about service. That power is not about spectacle, but about doing what is right — even when it is hard. To me, and to many others privileged to know him or witness his leadership, he embodied the Prophetic virtues: patience, compassion, humility, and justice. He has returned to his Lord, but his light endures. Al-Fatihah. * Iqbal Khan is CEO, Fajr Capital Group; recipient of the 2012 Royal Award for Islamic Finance and Trustee of East London Mosque and London Muslim Centre. ** This is the personal opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of Malay Mail.
Express Tribune
02-03-2025
- Business
- Express Tribune
Revised banking hours announced for Ramadan
Listen to article The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has announced revised banking hours for the holy month of Ramadan, adjusting schedules to accommodate fasting hours. According to an official statement, banks will operate from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. from Monday to Thursday without any breaks. On Fridays, banking hours will be from 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. For public dealings, banks will be open from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. from Monday to Thursday, with Friday services closing at 12:30 p.m.. The SBP spokesperson confirmed that all commercial banks, development finance institutions (DFIs), and microfinance banks will follow the revised schedule during Ramadan. Earlier, the Establishment Division had issued a notification adjusting working hours for federal government offices. Offices operating on a five-day workweek will function from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., while those on a six-day workweek will operate from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.. On Fridays, all government offices will close at 12:30 p.m. for Jumu'ah prayers. In a related update, Pakistan Railways has also revised working hours for reservation offices. Offices operating in two shifts will follow this schedule: Morning shift: 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Evening shift: 12:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. On Fridays, there will be a break from 12:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. for prayers. However, reservation offices working on a single shift will continue with their existing schedules. These adjustments will remain in effect until the 15th of Ramadan, after which regular timings will resume. Citizens are advised to plan accordingly and utilise online banking services where possible to avoid inconvenience.
Express Tribune
28-02-2025
- General
- Express Tribune
Revised working hours announced for govt offices during Ramadan
Listen to article The establishment division has issued a notification outlining revised working hours for federal government offices during the holy month of Ramadan, Express News reported. According to the notification, government offices operating on a five-day workweek will function from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. For offices following a six-day workweek, the working hours will be from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm. Additionally, on Fridays, all government offices will operate from 9:00 am to 12:30 pm to accommodate the Friday prayer break. Moreover, Pakistan Railways has also adjusted the working hours for reservation offices during Ramadan, ensuring smoother operations for passengers. As per the railway administration's announcement, reservation offices working in two shifts will follow new schedules: Morning shift: 7:30 am to 12:30 pm Evening shift: 12:30 pm to 5:30 pm On Fridays, there will be a break from 12:30 pm to 2:00 pm for Jumu'ah prayers. However, reservation offices operating on a single shift will maintain their existing schedule without any changes. These revised timings will remain in effect until the 15th of Ramadan, after which all reservation offices will revert to their standard operating hours.
