Latest news with #KishoKumariSucedaram
Barnama
2 days ago
- Business
- Barnama
Adoption Of Digital Platforms Helped Sustain, Expand Microfinance Activities Since COVID-19
BUSINESS Chief Adviser to the Government of Bangladesh, Professor Dr Muhammad Yunus, in a recent interview with Bernama — fotoBERNAMA (2025) COPYRIGHT RESERVED By Kisho Kumari Sucedaram KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 17 (Bernama) — The adoption of digital platforms has not only sustained but also expanded microfinance operations since the COVID-19 pandemic, said Grameen Bank founder Prof Dr Muhammad Yunus. Yunus, who is also the Chief Adviser to the Government of Bangladesh, said the transition to digital systems was not planned but rather a response to restrictions during the pandemic. Grameen Bank's weekly gatherings for loan payments, applications and group support became impossible to hold in person. 'It was not planned that way. COVID-19 forced us to move online. So, borrowers began using phones and digital transfers for repayments, while weekly group discussions shifted to Zoom,' he said in an exclusive interview with Bernama at the end of this three-day official visit to Malaysia. The interview was led by Bernama Editor-in-Chief Arul Rajoo Durar Raj, together with Editor of International News Service Voon Miaw Ping and Assistant Editor of Bernama Economic Service Kisho Kumari Sucedaram. The Nobel Peace Prize laureate was here between Aug 11 and 13 on the invitation of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. The shift worked so well that even after the pandemic ended, borrowers and staff did not return fully to physical meetings, said Yunus. He cited discovering how a Grameen staff member responsible for loan collections was based in Norway, yet continued to work seamlessly through online platforms.
Barnama
4 days ago
- Business
- Barnama
Malaysia And Bangladesh Can Jointly Produce Halal Products For Fast-growing Global Market
BUSINESS By Kisho Kumari Sucedaram KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 15 (Bernama) — Bangladesh has invited Malaysian investors to expand their halal production facilities in the South Asian country and jointly penetrate the fast-growing global halal market. 'By combining our resources, the halal sector would be a natural area for increased partnership between Dhaka and Putrajaya,' the Bangladesh Government's Chief Adviser Prof Dr Muhammad Yunus said in an exclusive interview with Bernama at the end of this three-day official visit to Malaysia. He was here on the invitation of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim between Aug 11 and 13. He noted that Malaysia's expertise in halal certification and branding and Bangladesh's abundant land, labour and facilities would be a potent combination to scale up production. 'This positions both countries well to meet the demand for halal products in international markets,' he said. The interview was led by Bernama Editor-in-Chief Arul Rajoo Durar Raj, together with Editor of International News Service Voon Miaw Ping and Assistant Editor of Bernama Economic Service Kisho Kumari Sucedaram. Yunus said the halal market is not confined to Bangladesh or Malaysia, but constitutes the global market, alluding to the consumer base for halal products based on the two billion Muslim population globally. According to Future Market Insights Inc.'s projections, the global halal food market is expected to grow from US$1.5 trillion in 2025 to US$3.8 trillion by 2035.
Barnama
24-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Barnama
- Move On From K-Pop! Beijing's Cool Kids Are Rocking 1000-Year-Old Fashions
24/06/2025 03:34 PM Opinions on topical issues from thought leaders, columnists and editors. By : Kisho Kumari Sucedaram Walking through the ancient streets of Beijing's Beihai Park, the Drum Tower, the Forbidden City or Shichahai, one might feel as though they have stepped into a time machine. Young Chinese men and women, dressed in flowing silk robes adorned with intricate embroidery and elaborate headpieces, pose gracefully against the backdrop of imperial-era architecture. But this is no historical re-enactment. It is part of a growing cultural movement among China's youth, who are proudly reviving traditional Hanfu attire and transforming the city's historic landmarks into vibrant photoshoot locations. As a foreigner living in China for the three-month China International Press Communication Centre (CIPCC) programme, I am continually amazed by how deeply the younger generation is reconnecting with their heritage and celebrating centuries-old traditions in such a modern and expressive way. File photo A cultural movement beyond fashion What makes this trend even more compelling is how it has grown beyond the realm of fashion to become a vibrant cultural movement. Social media platforms such as Xiaohongshu (Little Red Book), Douyin (China's TikTok), WeChat and Weibo are teeming with Hanfu enthusiasts showcasing their styled outfits, sharing historical insights and recommending picturesque photoshoot spots. These online communities don't just exist in the digital world – they organise large-scale meet-ups where hundreds come together to celebrate traditional festivals through poetry recitals, tea ceremonies and classical musical performances. In doing so, they transform the city into a living, breathing tribute to China's rich cultural heritage. File photo A revival of dynastic fashion Hanfu, the traditional attire of the Han Chinese, dates back thousands of years, with each dynasty leaving its distinctive imprint on style, fabric and silhouette. Today, Hanfu enthusiasts are reviving this ancient aesthetics with remarkable accuracy, often appearing like characters stepped straight out of a historical drama. Walking through the city feels like wandering through a film set from imperial China. Some wear Tang-style Hanfu, known for its wide sleeves, high-waisted skirts and vibrant colours. Women often don the ruqun – a blouse with a high waistline paired with a flowing skirt – complete with ornate hairpins reminiscent of Tang dynasty nobility. Others embrace Ming-era fashion, including the aoqun (a jacket with a pleated skirt) and the zhishen, a formal robe for men characterised by its round collar and wide belt. While the movement is especially popular among women, many men have also embraced Hanfu culture, wearing scholar's robes or warrior-style attire that reflect the grace or ancient literati or the valour of imperial guards. File photo The business of tradition Behind the glamorous photoshoots lies a thriving industry. Small businesses specialising in Hanfu rentals, photography and accessories have flourished, particularly around historical landmarks. Many shops now offer immersive experiences, allowing customers to spend the day dressed in period-accurate attire while learning ancient etiquette, calligraphy or traditional dance. For many young Chinese, wearing Hanfu is not just about aesthetics – it is a powerful expression of cultural pride. 'I feel connected to my heritage when I wear this,' said Xi Xia, a 24-year-old university student posing near the Drum Tower in a Tang-style ensemble. She said this is not just a costume but a part of who the Chinese people are. However, these experiences come at a price. A full Hanfu photoshoot package – which typically includes costume rental, makeup and a professional photographer – can range from RMB450 to RMB2,000 (about RM270 to RM1,200), depending on the intricacy of the design and service. The demand has created a booming cottage industry. Many shops near tourist attractions offer a full suite of services, from costumer styling to elaborate makeup, catering to locals and visitors alike. File photo A bridge between generations Interestingly, the Hanfu revival is not confined to the younger generation. Grandparents often accompany their grandchildren to photoshoots, sharing childhood memories and stories tied to traditional attire. In this way, Hanfu becomes more than a fashion statement – it serves as a cultural bridge, connecting generations through shared heritage and storytelling. Foreigners fascinated by the trend For many tourists, stumbling upon these photoshoots feels like witnessing a living museum – where history, fashion and culture merge in real time. Even some foreign visitors have joined in, donning Hanfu at popular parks to immerse themselves in the experience. 'It's breathtaking to see these young people embracing their history so passionately - unlike anything I have seen in Europe,' said Emma, a 35-year-old tourist from France. For China's youth, the past is not merely remembered - it is lived. And in the heart of Beijing, the dynasties endure, one photoshoot at a time. One can only Imagine how powerful such a revival could be elsewhere. Picture Malaysians dressed in graceful songket and baju kurung, strolling through Taman Tasik Perdana. Or posing in royal Pahang silk against the modern architectural backdrop of Putrajaya's mosques. Visualise scenes of ancient Melakan court attire recreated at Tugu Negara, or the vibrant elegance of cheongsam and saree brought to life in Kuala Lumpur's botanical gardens. Culture, after all, is not just history. It is identity and, above all, it is pride. -- BERNAMA Kisho Kumari Sucedaram is a journalist with BERNAMA. (The views expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and AWS and do not reflect the official policy or position of BERNAMA)
Barnama
24-06-2025
- Business
- Barnama
World's First Zero-Carbon Port Eyes Southeast Asia Expansion, Targets 3.2 Mln TEUs In 2025
BUSINESS From Kisho Kumari Sucedaram TIANJIN, June 24 (Bernama) -- China's Tianjin Port, recognised as the world's first zero-carbon port, is setting its sights on expanding cargo routes to Southeast Asia as it targets to handle 3.2 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) in 2025. The strategic move comes as part of the port's broader vision to boost regional connectivity and green trade under the Belt and Road Initiative. The port has built on its impressive growth from 2.83 million TEUs in 2023 to 23.29 million TEUs last year. Tianjin Port Operations Management manager Feng Miao said trade volumes to Southeast Asia continue to rise in tandem with the region's growing maritime corridor and container shipping network. 'We now have many direct routes to Bangladesh and Southeast Asia. One of the vessels here is currently en route to the region,' he told Bernama during a site visit to Tianjin Port recently. However, Feng did not disclosed the official figures on the current shipping size to the region. Tianjin Port was certified as zero carbon by the China Classification Society in 2022, marking a global first for the maritime logistics industry.
Barnama
05-06-2025
- Business
- Barnama
RCEP, ACFTA Key To Unlocking ASEAN-China Trade Potential - ASEAN Sec-Gen
BUSINESS From Kisho Kumari Sucedaram HUANGSHAN, June 5 (Bernama) -- Stronger grassroots implementation, simplified processes for businesses, and closer public–private partnerships are key to unlocking the full potential of regional trade pacts, according to ASEAN Secretary-General Dr Kao Kim Hourn. Kao was referring to the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and the ASEAN-China Free Trade Area (ACFTA). He said the frameworks of both are complementary and critical in expanding market access, fostering resilient supply chains and enhancing regional competitiveness. 'Strong public–private partnerships are essential not only to help businesses integrate into regional value chains, but also to support them in scaling up operations and contributing to more responsive policymaking,' he said at the 2025 RCEP Local Governments and Friendship Cities Cooperation (Huangshan) Forum held here today. Kao also noted that micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), the backbone of the ASEAN economy, often face barriers in accessing financing and navigating complex regulations. In this regard, he encouraged local authorities to support MSMEs through targeted outreach, advisory services and simplified administrative processes. He commended the proactive efforts of cities and local governments in facilitating trade adoption through policy dialogues, capacity building and incentive schemes that are essential for helping businesses navigate technical trade rules and realise the benefits of both RCEP and ACFTA.
