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<h2>A Practical Guide for First Timers</h2>Located just outside Kuala Lumpur, the Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM) offers an incredible opportunity for nature lovers to explore lush greenery through its canopy skywalk and nature trekking options. Whether you are a local or a tourist, these activities provide a perfect escape from the bustling city life.Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM) is one of those places that many people say they want to visit, but are not quite sure how to organise. The booking process is not complicated, but it does require some planning, especially if you are going as a group.<figure id="figure-fqakdmbw2fmk973c7s"><img id="fqakdmbw2fmk973c7s" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/31AggD8ANjt4VXOsYVqwM7cqeQjyIDBEH4DVa5Sc21HaMjG3n0VIgSbs2V9500QZ.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/31AggD8ANjt4VXOsYVqwM7cqeQjyIDBEH4DVa5Sc21HaMjG3n0VIgSbs2V9500QZ.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Here is a step-by-step guide based on my recent experience.Step 1: Decide Which Activity You Want There are two separate activities at FRIM:<ol><li>Canopy Skywalk at Taman Botani Kepong</li><li>Nature Trekking with a Guide at FRIM Campus</li></ol>You do not have to do both. You can choose one, depending on your group’s interest, fitness level, and time available.IMPORTANT: The two activities take place in different locations. Plan your transport accordingly. There is no direct public transport so carpooling is recommended.&nbsp;Step 2: Write to FRIM Early Start by emailing FRIM and let them know:<ul><li>Your preferred date</li><li>Number of participants</li><li>Which activity you want to do</li><li>Plan at least two weeks ahead. FRIM requires participant details for registration and indemnity purposes, and this is often the most time-consuming part because people need reminders to fill in forms.</li><li>All payments must be made online and upfront.</li></ul>Telephone: +603-62797649 E-mail: <a data-mce-href="mailto:frim_enquiry@frim.gov.my" href="mailto:frim_enquiry@frim.gov.my" target="_blank" rel="noopener">frim_enquiry@frim.gov.my</a>IMPORTANT: Keep the confirmation letter from FRIM in your phone and share it with all participants. The security team will ask to see this at both locations. You will be asked to scan a QR code and enter your details.&nbsp;Step 3: Fees and Entry<ul><li>Entrance fee: RM1 per person</li><li>Parking fee: RM5 per vehicle </li></ul>Once you are in Taman Botani Kepong, you can freely use the facilities. However, to access the Canopy Skywalk, there is an additional charge:<ul><li>RM15 per Malaysian</li><li>RM40 per non-Malaysian </li><li>There is also an optional 50 m tower climb along the canopy route, which comes with an extra fee.&nbsp;</li></ul>You can find the full and updated fee table on the FRIM website: <a data-mce-href="https://skywalk.frim.gov.my/" href="https://skywalk.frim.gov.my/">https://skywalk.frim.gov.my/</a><figure id="figure-17y8id9i7imk96vxnw"><img id="17y8id9i7imk96vxnw" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/8IvoS55ObuK4zgTh9Rzl91IQ3i4iJ6siZL0a2AnvMrFi8ih42oC5Oa56wUl1L9x3.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: 50% 50%;" data-corners="medium" data-aspect="3:2" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="50%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/8IvoS55ObuK4zgTh9Rzl91IQ3i4iJ6siZL0a2AnvMrFi8ih42oC5Oa56wUl1L9x3.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: 50% 50%;"></figure>WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE CANOPY SKYWALK<ul><li>You must be hands-free. If your bag is heavy, leave it with the guides at the starting point.</li><li>Only 5 people are allowed on the walkway at one time.&nbsp;</li><li>There is no safety harness, but railings are installed</li><li>The view is spectacular, but it is very high. If you have a fear of heights, DO NOT attempt this.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Drink water or an isotonic drink before you start.</li><li>The staircases are steep and they sway. Focus on your safety and do box breathing to stay calm.</li></ul><figure id="figure-p5tcv76fumk96yate"><img id="p5tcv76fumk96yate" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/39JlIvbknAawn0WtQozFHWqYbtgis9d0rthqVoasTFXTfrjR1zcgEzF1EKRhaQSh.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/39JlIvbknAawn0WtQozFHWqYbtgis9d0rthqVoasTFXTfrjR1zcgEzF1EKRhaQSh.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE NATURE TREKFor nature trekking, you must book a guide through FRIM.<ol><li>The number of guides depends on group size.</li><li>For our group of 15, we were assigned two guides at RM150 per guide, making it RM300 in total.</li><li>There are multiple trekking routes. The one we took was about 800 metres, mostly uphill, and took around 1.5 hours.</li></ol>The guides shared:<ul><li>Survival skills</li><li>How to mark paths if lost</li><li>How to signal rescuers</li><li>Edible plants and clean water sources</li><li>Basic first aid using native plants</li><li>The history of FRIM and the forest </li></ul>WHAT TO WEAR AND BRING<ol><li>Wear suitable shoes with good grip or hiking shoes. Running shoes are not good for this actvity. Some parts are steep and uneven.</li><li>A hiking stick helps a lot, especially on slopes.</li><li>Bring a light waterproof jacket. Consider keeping a change of clothes in your car case of heavy rain.</li><li>Use mosquito repellent or eucalyptus oil and spray them before you enter the trek.</li><li>Wear long socks and long pants. We did not encounter leeches, but they may appear after rain.</li><li>Bring water. I find that 500 ml of water is not enough. Please have breakfast before you go, there is no food inside and don't attempt this on an empty stomach. We started at 9.30am and ended at 1.30pm.</li><li>Bring rubbish bags and do not litter. I used a ziplock bag and kept it til I could safely dispose all the rubbish in a bin.</li><li>Carry a fully charged phone or camera.</li></ol><figure id="figure-c7xnzcarckmk96zs9m"><img id="c7xnzcarckmk96zs9m" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/252gMPlJeVfENEi1RojJFNIAtbCnVCcpXiSQXwleNZFFBvvEzByft7b6NhvSmw3p.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="3:2" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/252gMPlJeVfENEi1RojJFNIAtbCnVCcpXiSQXwleNZFFBvvEzByft7b6NhvSmw3p.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: center center;"></figure>RESPECT THE FORESTFollow your guides’ instructions at all times. Although FRIM is a man-made forest, it is still a tropical rainforest where wildlife thrives. Do not touch, break, or remove plants or branches.FRIM is a protected UNESCO site and a valuable biodiversity research resource. Leave only footprints and take only photographs.-end-

How to Book a Canopy Skywalk or Nature Trekking at FRIM

<h3>What COVID-19 Taught Us About Leadership&nbsp;</h3>When the world locked down in March 2020, Malaysia, like every other nation, entered the pandemic with a deep sense of fear and uncertainty. But looking back now, our COVID-19 story isn't just a tale of struggle. It's a complex, mixed narrative that reveals some quiet, critical strengths that got us through the worst, and some equally critical weaknesses we can no longer ignore.Global observers often highlighted Malaysia's journey. Why? Because we entered the crisis with a few secret weapons: a remarkably strong public health system, disciplined government agencies, and a foundational culture of compliance.Our story is a masterclass in crisis management, showing both our potential for excellence and our biggest blind spots. Here’s a breakdown of what we did well, where we struggled, and the three crucial lessons that will define our readiness for the next crisis.<h3>The Strengths: What Malaysia Got Right</h3><ol><li>Decisive, Early Action: In the crucial first wave, Malaysia acted quickly and with impressive force:&nbsp;<ul><li>Decisive Movement Restrictions (MCO): We were early to shut down, which slowed the spread dramatically.</li><li>Clear Communication: The Ministry of Health (MOH) and the Home Ministry delivered clear, data-driven daily briefings that built early public trust.</li></ul></li></ol>This early response earned international praise. The Lancet noted our rapid suppression efforts. The Harvard Business Review pointed to our transparency and fast detection. And the WHO specifically highlighted our capacity to prevent a complete hospital collapse. We acted early, communicated clearly, and protected our core systems.2. National Resilience &amp; High Compliance: Malaysians complied with movement restrictions, mask mandates, MySejahtera check-in, WFH and PdPR pivot,&nbsp; and SOPs at a level many Western countries struggled to achieve. This wasn't passive adherence. It was a form of national solidarity. This collective discipline bought precious time for our health system to stabilize, procure resources, and prepare.3. Operational Discipline on the Frontlines: Behind the scenes, the discipline was staggering. Frontliners carried the weight of the nation:<ul><li style="list-style-type: none;" data-mce-style="list-style-type: none;"><ul style="list-style-type: circle;" data-mce-style="list-style-type: circle;"><li style="">Hospitals expanded ICU and ward capacity at speed. I was personally hospitalised for a major surgery during the first MCO and the level of care that I received was top-notch.</li><li style="">Essential services maintained near-perfect continuity.</li><li style="">The massive national vaccination program operated with clinical precision, blending public and private sector effort seamlessly.</li></ul></li></ul><h3>The Struggles: Where Our System Fractured</h3>While institutions and frontliners performed exceptionally, the top-down layer exposed deep, systemic fragilities.1. Policy Whiplash from Political Instability: The single most significant weakness was the constant political turbulence. Rapid leadership changes led to inconsistent policy shifts, which created widespread public confusion right when people needed calm and clarity. A crisis communication plan simply cannot withstand constant changes in direction.2. Inconsistent and Fragmented Messaging: As the pandemic dragged on, announcements began to feel like whiplash. Different ministries and politicians issued overlapping, often contradictory, statements. SOPs changed rapidly, often without clear, sufficient explanation. When the 'single national voice' breaks down, public confidence and compliance eventually erode.3. The Deepening of Socio-Economic Gaps: COVID-19 brutally exposed the nation's inequalities. Low-income families and daily wage earners faced disproportionate hardship. Access to basic needs such as ood, digital tools for learning and&nbsp; safe housingbecame a matter of life and death under lockdown. The crisis revealed that a resilient nation must protect everyone, not just those already equipped to withstand the disruption. We urgently need a stronger, more equitable social safety net.The Core Lesson: Resilience is Built on Trust, Not Just HospitalsThe last few years showed us that Malaysia is capable of true institutional excellence. But they also proved that trust, stability, and equality are just as vital as our medical response. Future crisis readiness depends on three non-negotiable pillars:1. Stable Leadership: Communication must be consistent, grounded in data, and free from political upheaval.2. A Single Coherent Voice: During emergencies, there must be one clear, central authority speaking to the nation.3. Inclusive Crisis Planning: Our response must start by addressing the socio-economic vulnerabilities of our most fragile communities first. COVID-19 was a painful, difficult chapter. But it served as a national stress test, revealing both our profound strengths and our unavoidable blind spots. If we commit to carrying forward these lessons, Malaysia will not just respond well to the next crisis, we will be prepared to thrive through it.My thanks to Dr Natasha Lee for inviting me to give the lecture and Puan Hajjah Azlin Mohd Said for facilitating the session.Click here to download the lecture's presentation deck: <a data-mce-href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1cBBV6o7pMPXX2bl8-6fxFL92sCH8aXHP/view?usp=sharing" href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1cBBV6o7pMPXX2bl8-6fxFL92sCH8aXHP/view?usp=sharing" title="Leading With Clarity In Times of Crisis" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Leading With Clarity In Times of Crisis</a><figure id="figure-5vc9771c2emibofpqw"><img id="5vc9771c2emibofpqw" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/afXg7Z12oknEBvpbIGapImGu9g0ro8iSheVNk1SewQApYw1ywXWmIX0SylJQVUfH.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/afXg7Z12oknEBvpbIGapImGu9g0ro8iSheVNk1SewQApYw1ywXWmIX0SylJQVUfH.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>

Leading with Clarity in Times of Crisis

<figure id="figure-4i3jxnw8emhm5327b"><img id="4i3jxnw8emhm5327b" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/14LUCkYRnhPgglBkMzIj3q5GOJrTJWvNarxWorBuKLvdB9qQseJOARAZ5CP5tgoy.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl selected" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/14LUCkYRnhPgglBkMzIj3q5GOJrTJWvNarxWorBuKLvdB9qQseJOARAZ5CP5tgoy.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;" data-mce-selected="1"></figure><h3>Shift Your Energy Workshop: December Edition</h3>When I first created Shift Your Energy (SYE) Workshop in 2023, I didn’t imagine it would become one of my most requested courses. It began as a personal reminder, inspired by a conversation with my endocrinologist. She remarked that I seemed so full of energy, when in truth, I was barely holding it together. Her words stayed with me. They made me curious about why we often appear fine on the outside even when we’re quietly struggling inside. That curiosity led me to study Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and eventually become certified in it.SYE is built on what I call the Clear Water principle, the idea that we are all born as a glass of clear water. Over time, life adds its share of dirt, coffee, and sometimes even poison: disappointments, exhaustion, loss, or unkindness. We can’t stop the world from pouring these in, but we can choose to keep adding clear water through kindness, reflection, gratitude, and grounded habits that help us stay calm, compassionate, and productive.Even when others are unkind, we don’t have to mirror that unkindness. Instead, we can remain clear, to see things as they are, to act with awareness, and to keep our sense of purpose intact.That belief became the foundation for Shift Your Energy, a collection of methods and frameworks grounded in CBT that help you stay clear no matter what life throws at you. These include:<ul style="list-style-type: circle;" data-mce-style="list-style-type: circle;"><li>FIRE: a framework for restoring inner energy through fulfilment, resilience, gratitude, and emotional regulation</li><li>PATH: a practical tool for setting goals that align with your values and strengths</li><li>PLACE: a step-by-step guide to managing difficult people or toxic environments with composure and intention </li></ul>Each of these frameworks was something I used during one of the most difficult periods of my life. 2023 was a year of loss and quiet grief, but the practice of adding clear water, one act of kindness, one reflection, one mindful pause at a time, helped me rebuild.About This December Workshop This December session marks one full year since I became an accredited HRDC trainer and certified CBT practitioner, and I’d like to celebrate it by sharing these tools with a small group of women.If the past year has left you tired, emotionally stretched, or searching for clarity, this workshop is for you. It’s a reflective and practical space to reconnect with yourself, learn science-backed techniques for managing your thoughts and emotions, and set meaningful intentions for 2026.We’ll spend the morning exploring FIRE, and the afternoon combining PATH and PLACE to help you turn reflection into action. Details are as follows:<ul style="list-style-type: circle;" data-mce-style="list-style-type: circle;"><li>Date: Tuesday, 24 December 2025</li><li>Time: 10:30 AM – 4:30 PM</li><li>Venue: Mukarami Coffee, Sek 7, Shah Alam</li><li>Fee: RM350 per person</li><li>Limited to six (6) ladies only &nbsp; Your RM350 fee includes</li><li>A Journal Kit</li><li>Snacks, lunch, and afternoon tea</li><li>All course materials</li><li>Membership in Malaysia’s Lean In Circle: Shift Your Energy, a private peer group for SYE alumni</li></ul>Course Learning Outcomes (CLOs) By the end of the session, you will be able to: <ul style="list-style-type: circle;" data-mce-style="list-style-type: circle;"><li>Recognise and manage stress triggers using principles of CBT and emotional awareness.</li><li>Apply the FIRE framework to build fulfilment, inner strength, resilience, and empowerment.</li><li>Use the PATH framework to set achievable goals aligned with personal values and long-term aspirations.</li><li>Practise the PLACE method to manage difficult relationships or toxic environments calmly and professionally.</li><li>Develop a sustainable plan for maintaining energy, clarity, and balance in personal and professional life</li></ul>Who Should Join This Workshop This workshop is designed for women who want to restore balance, clarity, and calm in the midst of demanding work and personal responsibilities. It is especially beneficial for:<ul style="list-style-type: circle;" data-mce-style="list-style-type: circle;"><li>Professionals and leaders who manage high-pressure environments and want to strengthen emotional resilience.</li><li>Women navigating career or life transitions who wish to realign with their personal goals and values.</li><li>Those experiencing workplace toxicity or burnout and looking for practical tools to manage stress with grace and self-awareness.</li><li>Individuals seeking a structured yet gentle approach to reflect, recharge, and reset before entering a new year.</li></ul>The small-group format creates a supportive space for honest sharing and reflection, making it ideal for those who value learning through connection, conversation, and compassion.&nbsp;For more information on the modules and to reserve a seat, go <a title="Shift Your Energy 20205 Registration Form" href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfz-Vetf7U-sRNjJivZxDqC_2j3aeWVY2DZTA_uYWTVpxWCaA/viewform" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-mce-href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfz-Vetf7U-sRNjJivZxDqC_2j3aeWVY2DZTA_uYWTVpxWCaA/viewform">here</a>.

Shift Your Energy Workshop: December Edition

A recent post on LinkedIn lamented how we are “farming out our thinking to AI.” It is a fair concern, but not one I share.When I prepared for my Plenary Session at the World Zakat and Waqf Forum, I worked extensively with Sky (my name for ChatGPT). Yet the thinking, analysis, and final judgment were always mine. AI served as a tool and a sparring partner, helping me to see patterns, refine structure, and pressure test ideas, but never replacing discernment, empathy, or intuition.This is what the process actually looked like.<h3>1. Start with Understanding</h3>I began by reading widely and taking notes using the Cornell Method. This helped me identify the “shape” of my session,&nbsp; who the audience was, what they needed, and what I wanted them to remember. I then reorganised my research into Context, Trigger, and Response buckets. At a breakfast meeting with fellow panellists, I tested the outline and refined it through discussion until we agreed on our focus areas.<h3>2. Deepen with Research</h3>Next came the deeper dive. I met subject matter experts, read books and journal, and listened to podcasts and talks. I used search engines and Sky to filter information efficiently. In this process, AI functioned as one of my research assistants, not the only one.<h3>3. Write It All Down </h3>I wrote everything out on a single page to see the big picture. Then I stepped away for a few days to let the ideas percolate. During this time, I also spoke with more people to gather alternative perspectives and test assumptions. The pic below is from the notebook that I used for this step.<figure id="figure-btn8a2jswbmh6zeq9v" class=""><img id="btn8a2jswbmh6zeq9v" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/33cUwBPKbP8JKf6zE8ANU39WxVDfYc1TPSVUSpvcKur37PEeZibC8Fob1zXNRi3u.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined% 50%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined%" data-positiony="50%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/33cUwBPKbP8JKf6zE8ANU39WxVDfYc1TPSVUSpvcKur37PEeZibC8Fob1zXNRi3u.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined% 50%;"></figure><h3>4. Refine Through Dialogue</h3>When I returned to Sky, I used it to develop my deck and test tone, structure, and pacing. The back-and-forth process sharpened the clarity and flow of my presentation. I used prompts to simulate different audience reactions and refine my key messages.<h3>5. Validate and Visualise</h3>I fact-checked every source and reference. Although not required, I designed my own slides because I find it helps me internalise the material. I rehearsed out loud, and even used Sky’s video call function to simulate a critical audience. This helped identify weak points long before stepping onto the stage.<h3>6. Ground It in a Human Touch </h3>Finally, I visualised the opening and closing moments, selected what to wear, planned my body language, and wrote my key points by hand to reinforce memory. Then I showed up and delivered the session.At every stage, the process was led by human thought, not automation. AI accelerated research, improved structure, and offered perspective, but the analysis, judgment, and storytelling remained entirely human.There is no single right or wrong way to use AI. But if one simply feeds a topic into a tool and copies the result, the limitation lies with the user, not the technology. AI is only as good as the person using it. The quality of the output depends on how we prompt, process, and apply what it produces.If you would like to see what this process produced, you can download my final playbook for the session <a data-mce-href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1wvzcUcjNEn3y_qdgLN1p8h6jik6WsG9P/view?usp=sharing" href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1wvzcUcjNEn3y_qdgLN1p8h6jik6WsG9P/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.&nbsp;<h3>Overcoming Challenges and Ethical Considerations</h3>While AI presents numerous opportunities, it also poses challenges and ethical considerations. Issues such as data privacy, algorithmic bias, and the digital divide need to be addressed to ensure equitable and fair use of AI technologies.By remaining informed and advocating for responsible AI practices, we can help shape a future where AI benefits everyone. Continuous dialogue and collaboration between technologists, policymakers, and the public are essential for navigating these challenges effectively.

Working with AI: Creating the Playbook for World Zakat and Waqf Forum 2025

At the World Zakat and Waqf Forum 2025, I co-facilitated Masterclass 5: Borderless Brands with Puan Hajjah Alvirah Mohd Natt and Puan Hajjah Azlin Mohd Said. The session brought together participants from across countries and institutions, all seeking a clearer, more consistent way to communicate Zakat and Waqf.The idea was simple: communication should build bridges, not borders. To connect across languages, generations and sectors, our stories must be transparent, human and consistent.<h3>STEP 1: START WITH YOUR AUDIENCE (STAKEHOLDERS) </h3>This was a short class, so we began by mapping three key groups. You may have more. I encourage you to list as many stakeholders as possible, and then classify them into 3-5 major groups, for example:<ol><li>Public and Community Stakeholders: donors, recipients, and the public.</li><li>Internal Stakeholders: staff, volunteers, shareholders, internal donors and leadership.</li><li>Partners and Policymakers:&nbsp; ministries, funders, and collaborators. </li></ol>Every group valued the same three things: transparency, sustainability, and dignity. When communication reflects these values, trust follows. It is important to remember that across these groups,&nbsp; the way we communicate with them, the way the key messages are prioritised and the channels that we use may differ.&nbsp;<h3>STEP 2: BUILD A MESSAGE HOUSE</h3>A Message House is a simple framework I often use with clients:<ul><li>Roof: What your organisation stands for.</li><li>Pillars: Three messages that explain how you deliver that promise.</li><li>Base: Proof points that give credibility. </li></ul>For example, one agency may frame its roof as “Empowering communities through transparent, impactful Zakat and Waqf.” Its pillars focused on transparency, empowerment, and dignity, a key message that resonated across all its target audiences.<h3>STEP 3: USE AI TO STRENGTHEN CLARITY </h3>The goal is not to replace human storytelling but to sharpen language and structure so ideas could travel further.A prompt engineered using the PLANS method may look like this:<blockquote>Rewrite this Message House for [insert audience] using clear, persuasive, and inclusive language that reflects the values of Zakat and Waqf. Focus on making the message credible, purposeful, and audience-centred. Keep it concise and professional in tone, highlighting transparency, empowerment, and social impact as core themes. Structure the response into three parts — Roof (the main organisational promise), Pillars (three key messages that explain how this promise is fulfilled), and Base (proof points or evidence that make each message believable). End by linking the overall narrative to the “Borderless Brands” theme, showing how clarity and consistency allow Zakat and Waqf messages to travel across communities and cultures.</blockquote>&nbsp; We concluded that technology should enhance, not replace, human empathy. Data builds credibility; stories build trust. To communicate faith-based impact, we must speak with both head and heart.<h3>STEP 5: PICK YOUR CHANNELS AND SET ASIDE A BUDGET</h3>Effective communication is not only about crafting the right message but also about choosing the right channel. Each generation consumes information differently:<ul><li>Boomers and Gen X tend to rely on newspapers, television, and formal reports</li><li>Millennials prefer concise, visual content shared through websites, LinkedIn, and YouTube</li><li>Gen Z engages through short-form videos, Instagram, and TikTok, often seeking authenticity and interactivity.</li></ul>For Zakat and Waqf institutions to stay relevant, an omnichannel strategy is essential, one that blends traditional outreach with digital storytelling, online engagement, and on-ground community presence. Clear communication strategies and dedicated budgets must be built into organisational planning, not as afterthoughts but as enablers of trust, participation, and long-term impact. If you’d like to apply these tools in your organisation, you can download the full deck here: <a data-mce-href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KfUivz0I5C6mNMzt6QLFysztLGLDdh8P/view?usp=sharing" href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KfUivz0I5C6mNMzt6QLFysztLGLDdh8P/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Borderless Brands Masterclass Deck (PDF)</a>It includes templates and examples to help you identify your target audience, build your own Message House and strengthen your communication framework.-END-

Creating a Global Brand for Zakat and Waqf

Can We Talk as difficult conversation concept

<h3>Staying Grounded When Criticism Feels Overwhelming Using P.L.A.C.E.&nbsp;</h3>I still remember the first time I presented our new journey planner app to the Board. It was something I was genuinely excited about, an app designed to make everyday commuting easier by integrating local transport routes, timings, and service updates in real time.I was barely halfway through my presentation when one of the Board members leaned back and said with a hint of impatience, “But how does this compare with global giants like Google Maps? They have already solved this problem at scale.”I could feel heat rising in my chest and a sharp reply forming at the back of my throat.That was the moment I remembered P.L.A.C.E.I took a breath. That simple act stopped me from reacting defensively. Then I acknowledged what I was feeling. I told myself quietly, “I feel dismissed. It hurts because this project means a lot to me and I want it to be seen for its value.”Next, I asked myself, “Why does this cut so deeply?” And the answer was clear. It was not just about the app. It was about credibility. I wanted the Board to see that this was not some vanity project. It was a tailored solution designed for our local commuters in a way global apps could not replicate.So I chose to respond with calm clarity. I said, “That is a fair question. Google Maps is excellent for global navigation, but it does not capture the everyday realities of our local commuters. Our app is built to integrate live service updates, last mile connectivity, and even ticketing options unique to our system. Let me show you how this makes the daily journey smoother in ways larger apps do not address.”The tone shifted. Instead of shutting down, the Board leaned in. They began to see what we had been working on with fresh eyes.Afterwards, I reminded myself that I had managed that moment without letting frustration speak for me. I had kept the focus on the idea, not the criticism. And in doing so, I showed that I could stay steady under pressure.This is the power of P.L.A.C.E. Pause, Label, Ask, Choose, Empower. It does not make the sting of criticism disappear, but it gives us space to respond in a way that protects both our dignity and our credibility. Whether it is a Board meeting, a family conversation, or a tough moment with a colleague, PLACE helps us move from being hijacked by emotion to showing up with clarity and composure.How to Get Better at Using P.L.A.C.E.<ol><li>Practise in low-stakes situations. Try it with everyday irritations like curt emails or long queues.</li><li>Rehearse possible scenarios. Anticipate comments you often face and imagine how PLACE could help.</li><li>Journal after tough moments. Write down what happened and walk through the steps to strengthen awareness.</li><li>Role-play with a peer or coach. Mock practice makes it easier to apply under real pressure.</li><li>Master the pause first. Catching yourself before reacting is the hardest — and most important — step.</li></ol>Over time, P.L.A.C.E stops feeling like a checklist and becomes second nature. It isn’t about suppressing emotion, but about creating space between the trigger and your response so you can show up with clarity, credibility, and care.If you would like to practise using this framework in your own life, I have created a simple downloadable guide with examples and worksheets. You can get it here: <a data-mce-href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1y4gx-VuJchul3rbEozqSr3rSQ8N_8EFE/view?usp=sharing" href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1y4gx-VuJchul3rbEozqSr3rSQ8N_8EFE/view?usp=sharing" title="Using the P.L.A.C.E Framework" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The P.L.A.C.E. Framework PDF</a>.Let me know how it goes!

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Creating a Global Brand for Zakat and Waqf

Using the P.L.A.C.E Framework