As a recent fake news story illustrates, satire not only fuels the flames of mistrust between Islamophobes and Muslims, but also gives an opportunity for introspection. By Sya Taha. Last week saw a news piece written in French about a new bar in Amsterdam that would offer “halal prostitutes”. The story was then picked up by other websites … Read more
A video that emphasises the determination and willpower of a disabled person overlooks the need for institutions to adopt more inclusive policies. “How is your situation with attending the mosque?” begins a video by Kuwaiti preacher Mishary Al-Kharaz, before he introduces us to “his friend in Yemen”. The video shows Kamal, a young man with … Read more
An age-old institution in China serves as a testament to the message of Islam. By Afia R Fitriati. The Wangjia Hutong mosque in Kaifeng, central China, may be modest in size. But like the welcoming bosom of a loving mother, it has for decades embraced the girls and women within its walls, providing them with Islamic … Read more
Though we may not realise it, the Islamic world has had a remarkable influence on health and wellness as we know it. From hospitals that cared to scholars who shared, early Muslims were so progressive that we continue to benefit from their work today. Although health and wellness may be on everyone’s minds these days, … Read more
A group of ambitious young women started Hijabiksi, a youth project to reduce societal fears surrounding the hijab. We call ourselves Northern Hijabees and we are originally from all corners of the world, which enrich us as human beings and also the project. There are 24 of us – between the ages of 15 and 29 … Read more
Confident that her daughter would follow in her footsteps while growing up, Krista Bremer was surprised when Aliya decided to wear the headscarf instead — at the tender age of nine. Nine years ago, I danced my newborn daughter around my North Carolina living room to the music of Free to Be . . . You and Me, … Read more
Experts said Monday regular tests for vitamin D levels are not proven to be beneficial or harmful, despite previous research warning of damaging effects of vitamin D deficiencies in adults. Studies have found that low levels of the vitamin can increase the risk of bone fractures, heart disease, colorectal cancer, diabetes, depression, Alzheimer’s disease and … Read more
In a guest article, Fatima Fakier reports on the cultural and religious influences at play in this often divisive issue and examines the consequences of increased segregation. The human body was designed for physical activity. Our bodies are perfectly engineered to fulfil our basic needs and to achieve what we set out to do. Regular exercise stimulates … Read more
Aquila Style reveals the legacy of Che Zahara Binte Noor Mohamed, a Malay-Muslim woman who fought for the rights and wellbeing of women and children during a particularly turbulent period. As told to Sham Latiff through the recollections of her granddaughter Rita Zahara. Singapore is a bustling island city-state. Roughly half the size of London, this cosmopolitan republic … Read more