Latest news with #Ramadan
BusinessToday
7 hours ago
- Business
- BusinessToday
DOSM Report Shows Ramadan Bazaars Drove RM3.2 Billion In Sales, 280,000 Jobs In 2025
Malaysia's vibrant Ramadan and Aidilfitri bazaars generated an impressive RM3.2 billion in total sales and engaged 281,876 workers in 2025, according to a report released today by the Department of Statistics, Malaysia (DOSM). The 'Report on Statistics Ramadan & Aidilfitri Bazaars 2025' highlights a notable improvement in performance compared to 2023. The total sales value for both bazaars in 2025 rose by 12.9% from RM2.5 billion in 2023. This growth was accompanied by a 17.6% increase in the number of persons engaged, underscoring the significant economic activity and local entrepreneurship fostered by these festive markets. The DOSM survey, conducted from March 2 to March 30, 2025, covered bazaars registered with Local Authorities (LAs) nationwide. State and District Highlights Selangor emerged as the top-performing state, recording the highest combined sales value of RM0.7 billion and engaging 38,811 persons. Johor followed with RM0.5 billion in sales and a leading 44,525 persons engaged, while W.P. Kuala Lumpur registered RM0.4 billion in sales with 16,142 persons engaged. Collectively, these three states contributed 47.5% of the total national sales value for Ramadan and Aidilfitri bazaars. At the administrative district level, Johor Bahru recorded the highest combined sales value at RM261.1 million, surpassing Petaling (RM184.7 million) and Gombak (RM122.0 million). Ramadan Bazaar Performance Specifically, Ramadan bazaars contributed RM2.6 billion in sales in 2025, reflecting a positive growth of 14.9% compared to 2023. Selangor led state-level sales for Ramadan bazaars at RM558.0 million, followed by W.P. Kuala Lumpur (RM361.9 million) and Johor (RM331.5 million). Petaling district topped the Ramadan bazaar sales with RM163.9 million. The number of persons engaged in Ramadan bazaars also saw a sharp increase of 18.7% to 241,379. Johor registered the highest number of persons engaged at 37,415, while Johor Bahru district led with 21,295 workers. Aidilfitri Bazaar Performance Aidilfitri bazaars also performed well, with total sales increasing by 5.1% to RM0.6 billion compared to RM0.5 billion in 2023. Johor led state-level sales for Aidilfitri bazaars with RM144.3 million. Johor Bahru district again recorded the highest sales at RM99.0 million. The number of persons engaged in Aidilfitri bazaars increased by 12.0% to 40,497, with Johor recording the highest number at 7,110 persons. Vendor Satisfaction and Food Waste Management A survey conducted by DOSM indicated high satisfaction among Ramadan and Aidilfitri bazaar vendors: 83.0% were satisfied with the bazaar locations. were satisfied with the bazaar locations. 70.5% were satisfied with promotional activities by organizers. were satisfied with promotional activities by organizers. 69.3% were satisfied with traffic control measures. were satisfied with traffic control measures. 73.2% expressed satisfaction with visitor turnout. In a commendable effort to reduce food waste, 56.0% of Ramadan Bazaar vendors reported offering discounted prices to minimize surplus. Furthermore, 77.3% expressed willingness to donate unsold food to selected institutions, and 84.2% were open to sharing excess food with fellow vendors. Systematic food waste management also saw 3.9% of vendors channeling surplus to processing factories, 6.2% collecting for organic composting, and 7.4% utilizing recycling methods for leftovers. These findings highlight the continuous efforts by vendors and organizers to improve both the economic and operational aspects of these culturally significant bazaars. Related
The Star
12 hours ago
- Politics
- The Star
SIS wins appeal against fatwa
PUTRAJAYA: A Selangor fatwa (edict) that declared Sisters in Islam (SIS) Forum Malaysia as 'deviant' 11 years ago is not applicable to the company as the entity could not be construed as a person professing Islam, the Federal Court ruled. The court ruled so after allowing an appeal by SIS in its dispute against the Selangor religious authorities over the fatwa that was gazetted in 2014. The judgment, however, applied only to the extent of the edict's application. Chief Justice Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat, when reading out the judgment, said the term 'persons professing the religion of Islam' refers to natural persons and not artificial persons such as companies. 'This constitutional interpretation aligns with the fact that only natural persons can profess the shahadah, perform prayers, fast in Ramadan and perform the Hajj – core tenets of the Islamic faith. 'A company, being an artificial entity, lacks the capacity to repent as proposed by the fatwa. 'Hence, we conclude that a company cannot 'profess' Islam in order to be lawfully classified as a 'person professing the religion of Islam' under Item 1,' she said in the 3-1 majority decision yesterday. (In the Federal Constitution, the Ninth Schedule has two lists, namely List I or Federal List, which lists down the areas that the Federal Government can make laws on, and List II or State List, which states what the state government has powers to make laws on. Item 1 refers to the State List.) The appeal arises from a judicial review application filed by SIS and its founder Zainah Anwar in October 2014 to challenge the fatwa that was gazetted on July 31, 2014. They named the Selangor Fatwa Committee, the Selangor Islamic Religious Council (Mais) and the Selangor state government as respondents. In 2019, the High Court dismissed the judicial review application while the Court of Appeal dismissed the appeal in 2023. The fatwa declared that SIS as well as any individual and group that adopted the 'deviant' ideologies of liberalism and pluralism were deviating from the teachings of Islam. The fatwa stated that any publications containing liberal and plural views of Islam should be banned and confiscated. It further directed the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission to censor social websites that go against Islamic teachings and hukum syarak. The fatwa also directed that any individuals holding on to liberalism and religious pluralism should repent and return to the path of Islam. Tengku Maimun said the issue of a company, organisation or institution escaping accountability relating to the fatwa does not arise. 'Accountability for violating the fatwa rests with the individuals behind such entities. 'This is further supported by paragraph four of the fatwa, which only requires individuals who adhere to liberalism and religious pluralism to repent,' she said. The apex court also asserted its separation of jurisdiction from the Syariah Courts. 'To avoid misunderstanding, we reiterate that we express no view on the content of the fatwa itself, especially phrases such as: '... liberalism and religious pluralism are deviant and misguided from the teachings of Islam' and 'any individual subscribing to liberalism and religious pluralism ideology must repent and return to the path of Islam'. These fall under the exclusive jurisdiction of the respondents. 'With the reasons we have mentioned, we set aside the decisions by the High Court and the Court of Appeal,' Tengku Maimun said. The appeal at the Federal Court was initially heard before a five-judge panel. Besides the Chief Justice, other judges on the Bench were Court of Appeal judge Justice Abang Iskandar Abang Hashim, Federal Court judges Justices P. Nallini, Abu Bakar Jais and Abdul Karim Abdul Jalil, who retired in April. Meanwhile, Justice Abu Bakar, who held the dissenting view, said a company would still be bound by a fatwa, especially in the present case as SIS comprises of Muslims and its work is related to Islam. 'It is disturbing that the first appellant could escape and not be subjected to the fatwa simply by being a company but nonetheless venturing to make assertions and expressing views affecting the precepts and tenets of Islam,' he said. 'It should not be concluded just because a company is not a person professing Islam as a religion such as in this case, the provision of the Constitution should not apply to the same,' Justice Abu Bakar added.
USA Today
15 hours ago
- Sport
- USA Today
Sean Brady scoffs at Kamaru Usman's call for UFC title shot, suggests they fight instead
Sean Brady scoffs at Kamaru Usman's call for UFC title shot, suggests they fight instead Sean Brady wants to face Kamaru Usman in a No. 1 contender bout. Usman (21-4 MMA, 16-3 UFC) called for the winner of welterweight champion Jack Della Maddalena vs. Islam Makhachev after defeating Joaquin Buckley in this past Saturday's UFC on ESPN 69 headliner. Brady (18-1 MMA, 8-1 UFC), who positioned himself in title contention with a submission over ex-champion Leon Edwards at UFC Fight Night 255, thinks Usman hasn't quite earned himself a title shot after rebounding from a losing skid. "If he would have gotten a finish, maybe he would have more of a claim," Brady said of Usman on his "The BradyBagz Show." "But Buckley was No. 7, you're coming off a three-fight skid. I know what he's trying to say, he has the biggest name. Say (Makhachev) and JDM fight in October, let's say Islam wins, he's not fighting again until next year. So, you're going to wait around 18 months? Because he's not going to fight during Ramadan, maybe he doesn't fight until early or late 2026. "Then there's Shavkat (Rakhmonov) there and they're saying he's still next. Either way, I'll fight Usman or I'll fight Ian (Machado Garry). Ian put out something: 'You got finished by Belal (Muhammad).' Bro, I was No. 1, now I'm No. 2. ... I've been asking to fight you for months, but now I'm like f*ck it, I'll fight Usman. He's a former champion. I would rather do that. Ian can go f*ck himself. After I beat Leon, Usman was like, 'Oh, maybe I'll fight Brady now.' It's like alright, now you got a win, now it makes sense. I'm here for it. Let's not wait around. Let's see who the No. 1 contender is." Brady was honest in his realization that most of the top contenders at welterweight would likely need to win one more fight before getting a title shot. "None of us are getting the title shot," Brady said. "JDM's there and Islam's there. That's happening next. They're saying Shavkat's next, then there's me, then there's Usman, then there's Ian. Ian beat f*cking (Carlos) Prates, who's (No.) 13. Usman just beat Buckley, who was 7. I f*cking got there, I beat Leon Edwards, who was No. 1 at the time when I beat him, submitted him. I'm the only one who got a finish."
Time Business News
21 hours ago
- Time Business News
24/7 Taxi for Makkah, Madinah & Jeddah
Planning an Umrah trip means organizing flights, hotels, and rituals—but don't overlook the most important connection: your ride. Whether you're flying into Jeddah or staying in Medina, choosing a dependable Umrah cab service can make your spiritual journey seamless, safe, and stress-free. An Umrah cab service is a specialized taxi or private transportation service tailored for pilgrims. Unlike regular city taxis, these services understand the religious, emotional, and logistical needs of Umrah travelers. They are: Run by experienced drivers Comfortable and clean Designed to meet religious needs like stopping at Miqat, helping with luggage, and adjusting to prayer schedules These services are available across major Umrah routes: Jeddah Airport to Makkah Medina to Makkah Makkah to Jeddah Airport Makkah to Medina Ziyarat tours in both cities Perfect for small families or individuals seeking privacy and comfort. Great for budget-conscious travelers—share with others going the same way. 7- or 14-seater vehicles for families or tour groups. Ride in a Lexus, GMC, or luxury van with professional service. No waiting time at the airport or hotel at the airport or hotel Direct drop-off to your hotel or Haram area to your hotel or Haram area English/Urdu/Arabic speaking drivers Stops at prayer breaks , restrooms , and Zamzam stalls , , and Air-conditioned, well-maintained cars 24/7 service availability GPS-enabled tracking Female passenger-friendly drivers Pre-agreed pricing Round-trip options Jeddah Airport to Makkah : SAR 150–250 : SAR 150–250 Makkah to Medina : SAR 400–600 : SAR 400–600 Medina to Makkah : SAR 350–550 : SAR 350–550 Makkah to Jeddah Airport: SAR 150–200 Vehicle type Season (Ramadan, Hajj) Distance and duration Time of day (night rates may be higher) Hujjaj Umrah Taxi – Known for reliable, multilingual drivers and clean vehicles Haramain Cab – Ideal for intercity transfers Madinah-Makkah Ride Services – Great for shared and VIP options Travel agencies often include cabs in Umrah packages often include cabs in Umrah packages WhatsApp/Phone bookings (many drivers accept this) (many drivers accept this) Hotel concierge can call a reputable driver can call a reputable driver Online platforms with pre-paid booking options Stops for salah or food or Smooth driving on well-maintained highways AC and clean interiors Clear route knowledge—no delays or getting lost Pack Ihram , snacks , and a neck pillow , , and Download offline Quran apps for the ride for the ride Bring a small bottle for Zamzam Take cash in case digital payment isn't accepted Always book through licensed providers Avoid random drivers or unofficial taxis Women travelers: choose family-friendly services or travel with a Mahram or travel with a Mahram Confirm driver identity before entering the vehicle Vehicles with extra luggage space Child seats available upon request available upon request Discounts on round-trips or full-day packages Ramadan and Hajj = High demand Book at least 1–2 weeks early Prices may surge—confirm fixed rates Early booking ensures vehicle type and pickup time Whether you're arriving in Jeddah, traveling from Medina, or visiting Ziyarat spots, an Umrah cab service ensures your journey is smooth, respectful, and focused on worship—not logistics. From shared rides to VIP experiences, there's something for every pilgrim's need and budget. Book smart, travel safe, and may your Umrah be accepted. 1. Is it safe to use cab services for Umrah? Yes, as long as you choose licensed and verified providers. 2. Can I book an Umrah cab in advance? Absolutely! Booking early guarantees your seat, especially during peak times. 3. Are prices fixed or metered? Most Umrah cabs operate on fixed pricing—always confirm before starting the trip. 4. Can the driver stop at Miqat? Yes, drivers are trained to stop for Ihram and prayer at designated Miqat points. 5. Are cabs available 24/7? Yes, many services offer round-the-clock pickups, especially from airports. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
NDTV
a day ago
- Politics
- NDTV
Bangladesh Declares National Holiday To Mark Year Of Sheikh Hasina Ouster
Kolkata: August 5 will mark a year since the ouster of the Sheikh Hasina government in Bangladesh. To mark the event, the interim government in Bangladesh has decided to observe the day as Student-People's Uprising Day and declare it a nationwide public holiday. On that fateful day, Bangladesh's former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina had left her official residence as a violent mob was marching towards it. With a serious threat arising over her security, Ms Hasina fled the country. Within an hour of that, the mob ransacked the Gana Bhavan premises. The interim government has also announced that a committee has been formed for the declaration of the July charter, which is a charter of demands put forward by what the interim government describes as a Student-People's Uprising. These decisions have been announced by Cultural Affairs Adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki in a press conference held at the Foreign Service Academy in Dhaka. The interim government has also announced that programmes will be organised to commemorate the uprising against Sheikh Hasina last year and these programmes will happen between July 14 and August 5. The Bangladesh Awami League, which was ousted from power, says that the protests were backed by Islamic radicals and it was an attempt to kill the former Prime Minister. Since the fall of the Hasina government, minorities, especially Hindus have come under attack in Bangladesh. The Awami League has said that under the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government, terrorists involved in heinous crimes have been released from prison. Earlier this year, the Bangladesh Election Commission suspended the registration of ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's Awami League and banned it contesting the next election, leading to questions about the legitimacy of the elections. The Awami League has been banned under Bangladesh's anti-terror laws. Elections in Bangladesh are likely to be held before Ramadan next year. The announcement on the possibility of elections before Ramadan came after Muhammad Yunus met Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman in London during his recent visit.
