Naqba A

The Palestian Catastrophy – 65 years on! Reply

Al – Nakba – The Palestinian Catastrophe

Al Jazeera Television

http://www.aljazeera.com/programmes/specialseries/2013/05/20135612348774619.html

A series on the Palestinian ‘catastrophe’ of 1948 that led to dispossession and a conflict that endures to this day.

Last Modified: 08 May 2013 10:15

 The Video – Part 1

www.bcove.me/jvdvl0rb  

“The Nakba did not begin in 1948. Its origins lie over two centuries ago….”

So begins this four-part series on the ‘Nakba’, meaning the ‘Catastrophe’, about the history of the Palestinian exodus that led to the first Arab-Israeli War in 1948 and the establishment of the state of Israel.

This sweeping history starts back in 1799 with Napoleon’s attempted advance into Palestine to check British expansion and his appeal to the Jews of the world to reclaim their land in league with France.

 The narrative moves through the 19th century and into the 20th century with the British Mandate in Palestine and comes right up to date in the 21st century and the ongoing ‘Nakba’ on the ground

Arab, Israeli and Western intellectuals, historians and eye-witnesses provide the central narrative which is accompanied by archive material and documents, many only recently released for the first time.

Editor’s note: Since first running on Al Jazeera Arabic in 2008, this series has won Arab and international awards and has been well received at festivals throughout the world

For the Palestinians, 1948 marks the ‘Nakba’ or the ‘catastrophe’, when hundreds of thousands were forced out of their homes.

But for Israelis, the same year marks the creation of their own state.

The tragedy in Palestine is not just a local one; it is a tragedy for the world, because it is an injustice that is a menace to the world’s peace.

Arnold Toynbee, British historian.

This series attempts to present an understanding of the events of the past that are still shaping the present.

This story starts in 1799, outside the walls of Acre in Ottoman-controlled Palestine, when an army under Napoleon Bonaparte besieged the city. It was all part of a campaign to defeat the Ottomans and establish a French presence in the region.

In search of allies, Napoleon issued a letter offering Palestine as a homeland to the Jews under French protection. He called on the Jews to ‘rise up’ against what he called their oppressors.

Napoleon’s appeal was widely publicised. But he was ultimately defeated. In Acre today, the only memory of him is a statue atop a hill overlooking the city.

Yet Napoleon’s project for a Jewish homeland in the region under a colonial protectorate did not die, 40 years later, the plan was revived but by the British.

The tragedy in Palestine is not just a local one; it is a tragedy for the world, because it is an injustice that is a menace to the world’s peace.

Arnold Toynbee, British historian.

Al Nakba can be seen each week at the following GMT: Tuesday 2000; Friday 0600; Saturday 2000; Sunday 1200

Editor’s note: The Al-Nakba debate on 4th June 2013 – Al Jazeera’s Marwan Bishara brings together different perspectives to debate the series and the ongoing relevance of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

See also Witness: The Great Book Robbery

Images The Naqba Nakba – The Disaster Castasrophy – The Calamity – For Demonstration Purposes Only!

The World needs to be reminded 65 years on – injustices heaped on innocent people by those that call themselves as ‘civilised good observing Christian’ peoples – and others – and to the Arab Leaders looking the other way – and now caught up by events – years later!

Like I always say – there can be NO PEACE NO SECURITY in the world till The Palestinian issue is solved!

Regards,

Majid Al Suleimany

Naqba 1 Naqba 2 Naqba 3 Naqba 4 Naqba 5 Naqba 6 Naqba 7 Naqba 8 Naqba 9 Naqba 10 Naqba 11 Naqba 12 Naqba 13 Naqba 14 Naqba 15 Naqba A

Please watch Jazeera TV – it will make you cry – even if you are not Arab, Palestinian, Muslim and Christian!!!

 

HM Visit 3

HM Sultan Qaboos Visit to PDO! 2

 HM Sultan Qaboos Visits PDO

 Sunday May 12th 2013

 HM briefed about major oil projects

 Oman Observer – Mon, 13 May 2013

 Gas production set to grow –

MUSCAT — His Majesty Sultan Qaboos yesterday visited Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) at Saih Al Malih. His Majesty the Sultan was greeted at PDO’s main building, Beit Mina al Fahal, by ministers, PDO General Manager, government representatives in PDO Board of Directors and members of the company’s senior management.

His Majesty the Sultan made an inspection tour of the premises and was briefed on some important projects being implemented by the company in its concession areas that are expected to boost the Sultanate’s future oil and gas production and reserves.

His-Majesty-the-Sultan-visits-Petroleum-Development-Oman-headquarters_muscatdaily[1]

HM Visit 1 HM Visit 2 HM Visit 3 HM Visit 4 HM Visit 5
HM Visit Images

The landmark visit comes on the back of a “record year” enjoyed by PDO in 2012, with the Sultanate’s flagship oil company registering its highest ever hydrocarbon (oil, gas and condensate) production in its history: 1.24 million barrels of oil equivalent (boe) per day.

This exceeded the previous best of 1.21 million boepd in 2001. Daily oil production during the year stood at 566,305 barrels per day (bpd) and above PDO’s long-term plateau target of 550,000+ bpd. Daily production of non-associated and associated gas stood at 582,500 boepd with condensates at 92,500 bpd. The combined yield meant it was the fifth successive year that the Company had increased its aggregate production figure.

More Images

His-Majesty-PDO[1]  HM-visits-Oman-Oil[1]

PDO accounts for around 70 per cent of the Sultanate’s crude oil production and nearly all of its natural gas supply so there is a huge onus on us to find and develop new fields of a challenging or “unconventional” nature to replace those that are declining. Despite its record performance, the company has vowed to remain as committed as ever to its primary goal of exploring and developing hydrocarbons in a sustainable, efficient manner to the benefit of all its stakeholders by using new technology and pioneering techniques such as enhanced oil recovery (EOR).Earlier this year, PDO announced a significant gas find in the northern part of its concession area.

Mabrouk Deep, some 40 km west of Saih Rawl, Oman’s main gas field, has estimated in-place volumes amounting to 2.9 trillion cubic feet (tcf) of gas and 115 million barrels of condensate. Exploratory drilling took place last year at depths of up to 5,000 m and a large field of some 60 km2 was located.

In addition, there were five new oil discoveries in 2012, amounting to approximately 300 million barrels of stock tank oil initially in place (STOIIP) from Shuaiba and Gharif reservoirs.

Oman News Agency – ONA

 SMS from PDO MD to PDO Staff and Retirees – May 12th 2013.

 This afternoon we were privileged and honoured to be visited at our MAF offices by His Majesty Sultan Qaboos Bin Said. I and members of the MDC presented PDO business priorities and key achievements. His Majesty sent his best wishes to all employees and was appreciative of PDO efforts in oil and gas production and our wider programme to support Oman. MD

A Great Day Indeed!

Majid Al Suleimany

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3 - BUO TS 3

Why You Should Buy My Sequel Books! Reply

Why You Should Buy My Sequel Books!

Between Us Only! Series

www.myown-ebooks.com

Between Us Only! Short Takes – 2!

About The Book

www.createspace.com/4153269

2 - BUO ST 2

Back again for the next instalment in his critically acclaimed series, Majid Al Suleimany offers a new collection of articles that deal with the delicate matters that many are scared to touch. Adapted from his successful newspaper column in The Oman Daily Observer, the enlightening and educational articles of Between Us Only! Short Takes – Two! cover everything from human suffering and social trends to divorce and prejudice. Touching on some of the social evils prevalent in today’s society, this fantastic collection uses a mixture of witty observations and heavy blows to get its point across.

A labour of love filled with keen observations on twenty-first-century society, this insightful book carries priceless warnings, resentments, fears, and advice for readers everywhere.

The varied and honest new collection of articles cover a multitude of topics, from light-hearted and entertaining stories to serious topics based off of universal societal issues. Full of interesting and educational articles and stories, this wonderful book is a captivating experience, especially for readers familiar with Arab customs, traditions, heritages, and legacies.

A fantastic read for everyone from CEOs to students, Between Us Only! offers insightful and illuminating articles based off of a variety of topics that even apply to children, teenagers, and grandparents. Filled with varied topics that will entertain and inform readers of all backgrounds and walks of life, this eclectic collection will engross as it inspires and provides a wide range of knowledge on a multitude of important topics.

Developed from weekly columns Al Suleimany writes, Between Us Only! follows up on the success of the previous books in the series and furthers the idea of private talks between friends on matters that many are too scared to touch. Often times delving into topics that aren’t always sweet, this enlightening book uses a clear and elegant prose to explore social evils in society as well as their light hearted counterparts. Covering a variety of priceless topics, this wonderful collection of articles gives readers everywhere a glimpse into the issues that are prevalent in today’s society.

Majid Al Suleimany has over twenty-five years of experience as a human resources specialist and over ten years of experience as a management and human resources consultant, expert, and advisor. For the past eight years, he has written weekly columns in The Oman Daily Observer, an English daily, which has led to three published books based off of his columns. He has recently expanded to a new column, At the Workplace. Al Suleimany has also published two other books on Arab management – http://www.myown-ebooks.com.

Between Us Only! The Sequel – 3!

About The Book

www.createspace.com/4153263

 

3 - BUO TS 3

Between Us Only! The Sequel – Two! – has been adapted from Majid Al Suleimany’s successful newspaper columns in The Oman Daily Observer. Utilizing the very best touching emotional based stories and articles from the columns that he has penned over the past four years, Al Suleimany touches on a wide variety of vital and riveting topics. The subject matter will be of interest to everyone from teenagers to grandparents – and from the clerks to the CEOs.

Between Us Only! The Sequel – Two! – focuses on the study of humanity, human needs, human interaction, society, and economics, as well as other areas. In fact, the author covers all socio-economic-political aspects of society, with an emphasis on working environments such as office issues and aspects.

The author also addresses society as a whole, and the dire repercussions and consequences of bad ideas and thoughts that can be harmful to society in the broadest sense. Though many topics apply to Oman and GCC countries, the collection of columns organized by Al Suleimany offer a universal appeal because, in his view, society and family are quite similar.

According to the author, “We have the same needs, worries, concerns and fears—as well as what we like and do not like. This is because the human being is essentially the same—regardless of race, creed, religion, color, ancestry, and ethnicity!”

The book will encourage soul-searching, deep analysis, and a quest to make the world a better place. It has been penned directly from the heart of the author to the reader. It carries many emotional personal family stories and encounters – including work experiences as a highly-qualified human resources management consultant.

The book moves quickly, advancing without boundaries, and is careful never to get bogged down in politics. While critical, the writings are also realistic and practical, and stress the need in society for change in a way that will foster more patience, tolerance, and understanding.

Yet Between Us Only! The Sequel – Three! – is not without controversy. For readers who wish to study Arabic (and Islamic) approaches to the Middle East, the West, and other religions, the book makes excellent references relating to the post-September 11 world. The increases in religious fundamentalism and radicalization in society, and the fact that many youngsters are on board with these aspects, are also taken to task.

The author, through his writings, offers up a tome that is part prayer and part preaching, desperately hoping for a change in the world that will produce a new and more positive direction. “Live and let live in peace, harmony, and co-existence,” is Al Suleimany’s mantra.

Books available in Oman at Family Bookshops and WHSmith . Price OMR 12.

Best Wishes and Regards,

Majid Al Suleimany

Writing is a struggle against silence. Carlos Fuentes

The desire to write grows with writing. Desiderius Erasmus

6 - Behind The Wheel

New Road Safety Website. Reply

New Road Safety Website.

6 - Behind The Wheel

About The Website! – www.bethesafedriver.com

Specially created by Majid Al Suleimany with completion of his new book on Road Safety – Novel Type!

Being The Safe Driver! Behind The Wheel!

Being The Safe Driver - Front

USA Published

Behind The Wheel Icon

Book – India Published Version

See Pages and Posts here.

Best Wishes and Regards,

Majid Al Suleimany

A - A Cry For Help!

My New Books Are Now Available In Oman Reply

 

My New Books Are Now Available In Oman

May 4, 2013

For More Details Here At

www.myown-ebooks.com

www.bethesafedriver.com

Price OMR 12 (Twelve)

Family Bookshops and WHSmith for now

Also place orders here emails –

mymajidbooks@majidalsuleimany.com

majidalsuleimanybooks@gmail.com

 

Direct (Card) Orders –

(US Dollars 34 -36)

A         Being The Safe Driver!

www.createspace.com/4097374

B          Short Takes – 2! Between Us Only!

www.createspace.com/4153269

C         The Sequel – 3! Between Us Only!

www.createspace.com/4153263

 

D         My Previous Books  - Direct Orders

 

 

 

  • Short Takes – Between Us Only!
  • Only From The Publisher (few copies left)

 

  • Book 1 – Between Us Only!
  • Only From The Publisher (few copies left)

Regards,

Majid Al Suleimany

BOOK 2 Cover

My New Books! Reply

Dear All & After Compliments;

Pleased to inform you about my books – please find below for your information

PP Native Cover.4097374.inddBOOK 2 CoverBOOK 1 - Front

PLEASE DO SUPPORT Local Oman Authors writing in English – and local talents, skills and entrepreneurship PLEASE!

More Books Information Here and at www.myown-ebooks.com.

Best Wishes and Regards,

Majid Al Suleimany

A - A Cry For Help!

Biting The Hand That Feeds You! Reply

For Wednesday – April 10th 2013

Spotlight – The Oman Daily Observer

Between Us Only!

Biting The Hand – That Feeds You!

And ending with licking the boot that kicks you!

In writing especially my book titled – A Cry For Help! – www.myown-ebooks.com – I was astounded and shocked beyond belief to find that some few expatriates in good positions and in our country having rather very poor, dim and narrow minded extremely prejudicial biased and racialist outlooks on the country! The more shocking part is that they are courageous and brave enough to say all these things without any fear or inhibition – the audacity of it all! They do not even attempt to cover it with a sugar coating – but give you the pill bitter as it is! I wrote the book – but it was just like talking to brick walls – and just wasted futile exercise for simply nothing! Even one Western CEO admitted to me that ‘he could not believe such things happened in Oman – you do not desrve such things to be done to you!

A - A Cry For Help!

The Book – A Cry For Help! – www.myown-ebooks.com

Recently I read two articles that still continued to shock me to the core! One article was one where a columnist (foreign) was indicating why he chose an airline that was not national to go home on holidays. Mr. Columnist has full rights to choose whatever airline you wish – but do we need the citizens need to know why the preference – and if there is anything you wanted others to know is between you and the National Airline (Oman Air) – we are passengers like you – and talking to us will not change anything – unless that is you want us too to follow you to abandon our national airline – for whimsical reasons!

The other was coincidentally a good Indian Columnist with his heart in the right place – and in remembrances – chiding a Westerner Blogger who is at the same time a Teacher in English at the University level in Oman – and residing in Oman – ‘is apparently full of malice and hatred for Palestinians and Arabs. His generalisations are morbid and so are his attempts to distort truth. Or what else can the reason be for such malice towards the Palestinians..? A good question indeed – and thank you very much for the bold daring action! I hope nothing would happen to you – we can only pray for the risk taking!

I thought these things had now stopped post The Arab Spring Uprisings – but you will forgive my ignorance – because I have been out of offices for quite some time now – and do not know what is really going on now! Incidentally, I am also being protected from hearing and getting bad news from my ‘caring advisors’ – because the last bad news nearly ended me in being hospitalised – being acute diabetic and with eyes problems on top!

I was actually talked out of ‘doing some rather unexpected actions’ on my part out of desperation and reciprocity seeking! What turned the tables for me is hearing my 5 year old granddaughter asking her Mum – Why does Granny look so sad and unhappy? Why don’t you ask him, retorted her Mother> The girl replied – I do not want to hurt his feelings more – and that did it! Our late Mother always used to tell us that sometimes messages that need to be given to us comes in the format of the innocent angels saying unexpected and unbelievable things to us! Just to caution and guide us accordingly!

A long time ago I was invited –n with other Staff – to a family home of one expatriate. I needed to go the gents – so I told my host my dilemma. I found it strange that he had to consult his Madam Wife first before showing me which toilet to use – which I found later belonged to the housemaid! The stranger thing happened next! As I was returning to the sitting room – I saw this big African parrot in the kitchen. Feeling like a cup of water I took a glass – and was drinking it when this upset and annoyed hostesses was drilling me what I wanted in the kitchen? This is not a place for guests! She verbally reprimanded me! Then she said ‘really awesome nasty things’ to her husband about my intrusions! Dinner was not served – but I pulled Madam out – and in the car explained to her why!

Next morning my good Western CEO wanted to know what happened at his deputy house? So I asked him point blank – do you really want to know to take remedial action – or just as a matter of courtesy – and nothing else more? So I told him – when I realised he really wanted to know! Soon we were on the loud speaking phone format with the chairman – who was kind enough to say to me – I want the CEO to know too – so we will speak in English! The poor Invitee did not know what hit him next – how it came into being – but there was a letter signed by him the CEO – and co-signed by me – The Head of Human Resources – for ‘regret that your position will no longer be required due to the emergence of two departments – and the other guy heading the department!

I guess as he was in the plane with his family he wished he was not so hospitable to invite the others to his house – company rented anyway! Sadly he had a very high well paid job – that he threw away – just because of his ‘biases and prejudices’ – and sadly and tragically against the people and the country that offered you the job in the first instance. I think he thought he was still in the other GCC country where such things still exist – but thank God – the doors are closing now in Oman!

A long time ago an Arab President had said – The friend of today can be the enemy of tomorrow – and the enemy of today can be the friend of tomorrow! With shifting allegiances and alliances – we need to prioratise – and watch things out now – who are our real friends – and who are not! We owe it to our destiny, legacy and our future too!

In one of the companies that I had worked – there was a circular for expatriates being posted to a certain country – that went through the Arab Spring storm! It just said – be careful of the office driver, the gardener, the cook, the office mate (locals) – because ‘they all work for the state’ – and will try to entrap you! Thank God I feel great and elated that we have a wise and benevolent leader – and the people are generally receptive in welcome and in hospitality – and importantly respectful of ‘the invited guests ‘ in our country. We have even changed our weekends to remain accommodating! What more do you want?

Take Care!

Majid New (2)

Book with stories of accident victims pitches for Road Safety! Reply

Muscat Daily

Book with stories of accident victims pitches for Road

Safety!

 

 
Majid al Suleimany
 
 
Muscat Dailt – March 18, 2013
 
Muscat -

It is arguably the first time in the country that several heart-wrenching real life stories of road accident victims have been put together in a book to tackle road safety issues and educate people on the consequences of reckless driving.

A retired human resources consultant, Majid al Suleimany has collected more than 60 real life stories of road accident victims and their families for the 450-page book Being the Safe Driver.
Published in the US, the book looks at the rising number of road accidents and also provides technical advice from experts. “With PDO’s help I was able get and narrate several accidents with a detailed view on what caused the accidents. The book has views from a number of HSE (health, safety and environment) experts on how to be a safe driver. And I have also quoted verses from the Q’uran to show that putting other people’s lives in danger for no apparent reason is not acceptable in Islam,” said Suleimany.

He said this makes Being the Safe Driver a good handbook. “We don’t look at the accidents from an emotional level. We only see statistics in newspapers and news clipping about one more accidents. The day we start associating with it emotionally and putting faces to victims, we will be more responsible on roads.” To take a closer look and see the consequences in person, the author visited hospitals and was distraught to see people maimed for life. “It was so emotional to see children and adults with broken limbs and burnt bodies. There were so many young boys with debilitating injuries – who otherwise should have been looking at their future – languishing in hospital wards.”

He said there should be a programme to show the public what consequences the victims and their families are facing. “It could be either through documentaries or planned hospital tours.”

Suleimany is already in talks with a couple of people who could translate the book into Arabic. “The plan is to go to schools and give them a presentation on road safety and leave some books in their library.”

This is Suleimany’s sixth book, and he is expecting to launch another two very soon.

“I plan to do an official launch of Being the Safe Driver and my other two upcoming books sometime in April. This would be the first time that an Omani author is releasing three books at a time,” he said

Book Release Oman Observer

Road Safety Book Release! Reply

Road Safety Book Release!

www.createspace.com/4097374

Open the link above.

The Oman Daily Observer – March 9th 2013 – Book Press Release.

More information here and at www.myown-ebooks.com

Please support for this worthy noble National Cause in RSA.

The book is available at Family Bookshops and WHSmith (The Wave)

Price OMR 15 Fifteen. (US Dollars 34)

Available on line via Amazon and CreateSpace

Book Release Oman Observer

Best Wishes and Regards,

Majid Al Suleimany

BOOK 2 Cover

Between Us Only!: Short Takes – Two! Reply

Between Us Only!: Short Takes – Two!

BOOK 2 Cover

BOOK PROMOTIONAL TEXT

Title: Between Us Only!: Short Takes – Two!

Author: Majid Al Suleimany

Sentence Description

Back again for the next installment in his critically-acclaimed series, Majid Al Suleimany offers a new collection of articles that deal with the delicate matters that many are scared to touch.

Short Description

Back again for the next installment in his critically acclaimed series, Majid Al Suleimany offers a new collection of articles that deal with the delicate matters that many are scared to touch. Adapted from his successful newspaper column in The Oman Daily Observer, the enlightening and educational articles of Between Us Only!: Short Takes – Two! cover everything from human suffering and social trends to divorce and prejudice. Touching on some of the social evils prevalent in today’s society, this fantastic collection uses a mixture of witty observations and heavy blows to get its point across. A labor of love filled with keen observations on twenty-first-century society, this insightful book carries priceless warnings, resentments, fears, and advice for readers everywhere.

The varied and honest new collection of articles cover a multitude of topics, from lighthearted and entertaining stories to serious topics based off of universal societal issues. Full of interesting and educational articles and stories, this wonderful book is a captivating experience, especially for readers familiar with Arab customs, traditions, heritages, and legacies.

Developed from weekly columns Al Suleimany writes, Between Us Only! follows up on the success of the previous books in the series and furthers the idea of private talks between friends on matters that many are too scared to touch. Often times delving into topics that aren’t always sweet, this enlightening book uses a clear and elegant prose to explore social evils in society as well as their lighthearted counterparts.

Extended Description

Back again for the next installment in his critically acclaimed series, Majid Al Suleimany offers a new collection of articles that deal with the delicate matters that many are scared to touch. Adapted from his successful newspaper column in The Oman Daily Observer, the enlightening and educational articles of Between Us Only!: Short Takes – Two! cover everything from human suffering and social trends to divorce and prejudice. Touching on some of the social evils prevalent in today’s society, this fantastic collection uses a mixture of witty observations and heavy blows to get its point across. A labor of love filled with keen observations on twenty-first-century society, this insightful book carries priceless warnings, resentments, fears, and advice for readers everywhere.

The varied and honest new collection of articles cover a multitude of topics, from lighthearted and entertaining stories to serious topics based off of universal societal issues. Full of interesting and educational articles and stories, this wonderful book is a captivating experience, especially for readers familiar with Arab customs, traditions, heritages, and legacies.

A fantastic read for everyone from CEOs to students, Between Us Only! offers insightful and illuminating articles based off of a variety of topics that even apply to children, teenagers, and grandparents. Filled with varied topics that will entertain and inform readers of all backgrounds and walks of life, this eclectic collection will engross as it inspires and provides a wide range of knowledge on a multitude of important topics.

Developed from weekly columns Al Suleimany writes, Between Us Only! follows up on the success of the previous books in the series and furthers the idea of private talks between friends on matters that many are too scared to touch. Often times delving into topics that aren’t always sweet, this enlightening book uses a clear and elegant prose to explore social evils in society as well as their lighthearted counterparts. Covering a variety of priceless topics, this wonderful collection of articles gives readers everywhere a glimpse into the issues that are prevalent in today’s society.

Majid Al Suleimany has over twenty-five years of experience as a human resources specialist and over ten years of experience as a management and human resources consultant, expert, and advisor. For the past eight years, he has written weekly columns in The Oman Daily Observer, an English daily, which has led to three published books based off of his columns. He has recently expanded to a new column, At the Workplace. Al Suleimany has also published two other books on Arab management – www.myown-ebooks.com .

Back Cover Text

Back again for the next installment in his critically acclaimed series, Majid Al Suleimany offers a new collection of articles that deal with the delicate matters that many are scared to touch. Adapted from his successful newspaper column in The Oman Daily Observer, these enlightening and educational articles cover everything from human suffering and social trends to divorce and prejudice. Touching on some of the social evils prevalent in today’s society, this fantastic collection uses a mixture of witty observations and heavy blows to get its point across. A labor of love filled with keen observations on twenty-first-century society, this insightful book carries priceless warnings, resentments, fears, and advice for readers everywhere.

Al Suleimany has over twenty-five years of experience as a human resources specialist and over ten years of experience as a management and human resources consultant, expert, and advisor. For the past eight years, he has written weekly columns in The Oman Daily Observer, an English daily, which has led to three published books based off of his columns. He has recently expanded to a new column entitled, At the Workplace. Al Suleimany has also published two other books on Arab management. He began writing at age fourteen and has since developed a new approach that he feels is “direct from the heart.” Al Suleimany holds a master’s in international management. For more information on him, please visit www.myown-ebooks.com and www.majidbooks.com.

Author Biography

Majid Al Suleimany has over twenty-five years of experience as a human resources specialist and over ten years of experience as a management and human resources consultant, expert, and advisor. For the past eight years, he has written weekly columns in The Oman Daily Observer, an English daily, which has led to three published books based off of his columns. He has recently expanded to a new column entitled, At the Workplace.

Al Suleimany has also published two other books on Arab management. He began writing at age fourteen and has since developed a new approach that he feels is “direct from the heart.” Al Suleimany holds a master’s in international management. He is married and has three daughters and a son. For more information on him, please visit www.myown-ebooks.com and www.majidbooks.com.

First Person Author Biography

I have over twenty-five years of experience as a human resources specialist and over ten years of experience as a management and human resources consultant, expert, and advisor. For the past eight years, I have written weekly columns in The Oman Daily Observer, an English daily, which has led to three published books based off of my columns. I have recently expanded to a new column entitled, At the Workplace.

I have also published two other books on Arab management. I began writing at age fourteen and have since developed a new approach that I feel is “direct from the heart.” I hold a master’s in international management. I am married and have three daughters and a son. For more information, please visit www.myown-ebooks.com and www.majidbooks.com.

First Person Author Biography

I am a weekly columnist with The Oman Daily Observer and with a master’s in international management.

More on my books at www.myown-ebooks.com and www.bethesafedriver.com

Also www.majidwrite.com and www.majidall.com

End.

HM 1

His Majesty Meets Citizens in Bahla. Reply

 

  HM Meets Citizens in Bahla

 The Oman Daily Observer

 Mon, 28 January 2013

 HM 1

 HM Talking To The Citizens

 Fund, college for youth support unveiled — BAHLA — His Majesty Sultan Qaboos held a meeting with the Shaikhs and dignitaries of Al Dakhiliyah and Wusta governorates at the Royal camp at Saih al Shamikhat in the Wilayat of Bahla as part of the Royal meet-the-people tour.

The meeting was in continuation of the Royal tradition established by His Majesty the Sultan since the dawn of the Renaissance. Such meetings seek to enhance the ongoing contact between His Majesty the Sultan and the citizens of Oman.

On the outset of the meeting, His Majesty the Sultan welcomed the attendees saying, ”It is our pleasure to meet you today on the land of Bahla, which is known for its rich history and its status as one of the most important Omani cities that is abundant with traditional crafts and heritage, a fact all Omanis know and are proud of.”

HM 2
Listening to an elderly citizen!

In the Royal address before the Shaikhs and dignitaries, His Majesty the Sultan said, “The wilayat of Bahla, which has this great history, is also an incubator for traditional crafts and deep-rooted heritage. We would like to tell you that we have decided to set up a college here, in the wilayat of Bahla, that will be named Ajyal College, said His Majesty the Sultan.

”The College will play a role in training Omani men and women in the field of traditional crafts industries in a bid to revive and develop this heritage vocation. I believe that the output will be 200 persons at the initial stage, later expected to extend to 800 persons during the coming four years.”

HM 3
HM 4HM 5

Speaking about youth projects support, His Majesty the Sultan pointed out that, in the past years there were many sources for supporting youth to enable them to set up and promote their own projects, the most notable of which is Sanad Programme which, His Majesty the Sultan said, has really performed its duty in the best manner for many years. Other youth support projects exist at other government departments, His Majesty the Sultan explained.

His Majesty the Sultan added in this respect, “We have now decided to group all these sources under a fund to be known as Al Rafd Fund, which will carry out a specific mission. Al Rafd will be established for the sake of these young men and women, to enable them to develop their small and medium enterprises.

His Majesty the Sultan explained that Al Rafd Fund will have a great significance and that “We have decided it will have a starting capital of RO 70 million, to which RO 7 million will be added every year. This fund will be a bounty for our sons and daughters.”

His Majesty the Sultan referred to the outcome of the Symposium on Small and Medium Enterprises Development, “held in this blessed place”. The symposium, His Majesty the Sultan said, “came out with decisions, and this is the first time that a symposium comes with decisions, instead of recommendations as was the case in the past. Recommendations may or may not be considered, but, from now onwards, if there are symposiums, they will be symposiums that issue decisions, not merely recommendations.”

Speaking about this latest symposium, His Majesty the Sultan said that it came out with 14 very good decisions. “The decisions are binding, not merely decisions that are subject to procedures. As it should be understood, these decisions are also time-bound to varying periods, some of which are immediate and some will succeed in the next year and beyond.”

“One of the important and binding decisions of the symposium, which we blessed, is the one related to the issue of land plots allocated for the owners of projects, whether industrial, commercial, agricultural or otherwise – for them to benefit from the lands. This, we believe, will be a matter that supports our youth, both men and women, and encourage them to take up these projects of potential value,” said His Majesty the Sultan.

His Majesty the Sultan proceeded on saying, “Years before, if we recall, the trend was to distribute some land plots for people with limited income to benefit from. Now, the practice is to make these land plots available for people to benefit from them and for a long time. We pray to the Almighty that our youths will take more interest in these different options.”

Then, His Majesty the Sultan spoke about illicit trade, noting, “We say in very clear terms that illicit trade should be avoided which does not serve the interest of our sons and daughters, not even the interest of the grown-ups, who might have found out in the past period that this kind of trade was absolutely harmful to the Omani economy. We have to be aware of this matter and give it full attention. We have to be aware that illicit trade is direct loss to our country!”

Further to His Majesty the Sultan’s comment on this harmful practice (illicit trade) and its relation to expatriate workers’ money transfers, His Majesty the Sultan said, “These transfers are more than the known official income. Billions of Omani rials are transferred abroad annually,” said His Majesty the Sultan, noting that the government and all segments of society have to do their duty to eradicate this illicit trade which keeps depleting the Omani economy, thereby minimizing chances for the employment of Omani youths. “This practice is not at all acceptable,” His Majesty the Sultan said.

His Majesty the Sultan pointed out that expatriate manpower is on the rise and increased more than should be. “We decided, a certain time ago, to have a specific percentage of expatriate and this percentage was reasonable. But we are in need of expatriate manpower now and in future. Every country in the world has expatriate manpower, even major industrial countries depend in some matters on expatriate manpower,” His Majesty said.

His Majesty the Sultan explained, “The percentage that we have always considered should be within 30 per cent to 33 per cent of the total population. At the present time, there is no doubt that expatriate manpower increased greatly, but some of the numbers are justifiable in temporary terms, like in some mega projects which, thank God, the country is witnessing, including projects in Duqm and other places.

 A future project (which will require expatriate manpower) is the railway project. Expatriate manpower is still required because our domestic manpower still takes up certain aspects of work. God willing, in the course of days, our Omani manpower will be present in all professions and at all projects.”

His Majesty the Sultan said that he gave his Royal directives to the Government and the Majlis Oman (Council of Oman). His Majesty said the Council will support the Government in this respect, and that a timeframe will be set for applying the statutory or required ratio.

Some of this expatriate manpower absconds and it takes time to deport them, a burden on the government and the security departments in the state. It costs the Government and it does not bring any benefits in any way, said His Majesty the Sultan, who also cautioned against the negative impact of illegal immigration which, he said, has become a daily occurrence.

 The illegal immigrants come by boat, and these matters have to be tackled in a moderate manner that would not annoy the countries from which these groups of illegal immigrants hail. This is also a worrying thing, but it is unavoidable. These departments concerned will do their best in tackling this phenomenon of illegal immigration.

His Majesty the Sultan said that a limit has to be made to the expatriate manpower that is recruited by citizens. “There will be decisions and procedures to limit the numbers of this manpower because it is time to take proper action,” said His Majesty, noting that a country would grow only by the growth of its economy. “Economy has become the result of efforts of the country’s youths,” he added.

His Majesty the Sultan said that the funds that enter the State’s Treasury come from taxes on existing establishments because no taxes are imposed on private capital, though it is the practice in advanced or industrial countries, “which give by one hand and take away by the other hand”.

“In our countries, thanks be to the Almighty, taxes are imposed only on establishments and on companies and these taxes are fairly limited. “Still, the Government is supporting these establishments and companies so that they can expand and grow and, eventually achieve two objectives: Firstly, to absorb national manpower and secondly, the more these establishments and companies expand and grow, the more they pay taxes and enhance the State’s income thereby serving the best interest of the country and its citizens,” said His Majesty the Sultan.

“I’m often surprised by the queries of some people who wonder where funds for the construction of roads, hospitals and schools come from. This is all part of ht eplans of the government, the funds it possesses and the national economy that is generated. No doubt, the Government is managing this and will continue to do so in the best possible manner, but it also has to have programmes and plans. Above all this, we still go beyond these plans and give our directives for the establishment of additional projects which we deem as necessary or which respond to the demands which we receive and consider as important,” said His Majesty the Sultan.

“Take, for example, the road network. We have an unmatched road network in the Sultanate, despite the high cost incurred due to the geographical nature of the Sultanate, but since it serves the interest of citizens, we provide the financial resources for these roads,” said His Majesty the Sultan in the Royal address before the Shaikhs and dignitaries of Al Dakhiliyah and Wusta Governorates at Saih al Shamikhat yesterday, His Majesty Sultan Qaboos. However, things have to be taken one by one because one cannot accomplish everything in one day and night.

His Majesty the Sultan reaffirmed that development is forging ahead at high rates and will not stop no matter what circumstances could be. “Everything will have a well-studied plan and the Supreme Council for Planning will perform its duty diligently because it is right under our direct supervision,” said His Majesty the Sultan, who reaffirmed that the Council will study many topics and all requirements. “We will know where the development process has reached. We will check if it reaches a satisfactory level or not and therefore focus on the weaker part before adding more whatever the conditions might require. These matters have to be clear.”

The national economy of any country is based on the small and medium industries it has, and these national sectors continue to grow into major industries.

“Industries in the past required large numbers of workers, but today, because of technology, many major industries require a small number of workers. However, other industries that feed major industries gain importance and these small and medium industries are at the end of the day the backbone of the national economy, and it is here that the role of our sons and daughters crystalizes, now and in future,” said His Majesty.

His Majesty the Sultan said, while watching television, he was greatly delighted to hear that Omani youths say that “Now it is our turn … the ball is on our racket!”. His Majesty said it is a good thing because these youths felt that everything that might assist them or support them is now made available. More support will be provided if they prove their potential in this field of work.

Then, His Majesty the Sultan spoke about the importance of the sea for Omanis, which has been the case since ancient times. “The sea has been important for travel and for livelihood, fisheries, and this is a very important fact. We need to preserve this wealth and develop it as it serves as an important aspect of the national economy,” said His Majesty the Sultan.

 END

 Visit my columns websites at www.majidall.com and www.majidwrite.com – My Books website at www.myown-ebooks.com and new www.bethesafedriver.com based on my new Road Safety Novel – Being The Safe Driver! Behind The Wheel!

Best Wishes and Regards,

Majid Al Suleimany

My Books 3 boxes of 5 as gifts?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

Majid New (2)

Writing Is Not A Dirty Word! Reply

 

A - A Cry For Help! (2)2 - Psychology Front Cover

The Two Arab Management BookS

Majid New

Images – The Author and Two Arab Management Books

Writing Is Not A Dirty Word!

By Majid Al Suleimany

January 18, 2013

Some years ago, I was working in this Chinese Company and I gave my first book Between Us Only! as a complimentary gift to this European Finance Manager who joined after me! He came from Tanzania branch of the same company. In the book there was an article titled Are You Afraid? It was about magic and witchcraft in East Africa.

One day earlier we had got talking about Tanzania and the subject had cropped up – and in good faith I had thought of giving him the book! A few days later I asked him if he had read the article – but he said that he had not! This person had taken a lot of pride of how he got rid of a Tanzanian local who was the Finance Director before him – and wanted to have an added plus of including an Omani in his list tick off too! Which he successfully did – by telling everyone in Management that Majid had written a book that was critical and radical of The West! That was his outlook and prerogative – and he was free to think like what he wanted to!

The same outlook was outlandishly made by some crude Western Expatriates in my previous USA run company. And that comes to the main point to be made here – The Westerners believe in freedom and democracy only if you are in their camp – and are in support of their views and in outlooks! Thus creating my two books in Arab Management – Psychology of Arab Management Thinking and A Cry For Help! – please see my books website www.myown-ebooks.com and www.majidbooks.com

They do not want you to support Palestinians or The Arab cause. Even if you are Arab – or Muslim! Shut up – Keep Quiet – and Sit In the Corner! Do not write topics like No More Wars please! Or Lift The Gaza Blockage! Or write anything against Israel. Did you notice that the Israeli Jews can criticize their own government – but the American supporters and Jews do not allow you this? This is how my two sequel books Between Us Only! had run into publishing problems in USA! In the end they had agreed to refund my monies paid – because they simply did not want association with my books!

Makes the whole exercise of their preaching others for democracy, freedom of speech, freedom of expression is shallow and hollow – because they do not allow it in their country to outsiders – and though they are outsiders here in Oman – they want the same for the locals to ‘fall down and play dead’ after the command – when you misbehave! That is why they hate The Arab Spring Uprisings – because it works against them! And Israel especially! Because they can no longer control, dominate and subjugate others – by using the puppets under their control and domination. That goes down to an individual level – and Writers, Authors and Columnists like us are special targeted for writing on THE TRUTH ONLY!

But this issue does not only extend to expatriates in our midst – but even locals too! In one interview on so-called VP HR was making great fun, joke and mirth about my writings – and my books and websites! Yet I was there not for a job in his Company – but more as a Consultant in HR! Nothing to do as me as in writing – which is not profession linked – as writing being just my hobby, interests and passion!

A great lady fan of mine – who had died in a nasty road accident had said to me that people are simply jealous and envious of you – because they know you have the knack and the expertise of writing – and they cannot – even if they dearly wished for this. Mr. M – you have not lost – you have won!

The same thing was said to me by two other lady fans – and several gents too – all local!

There was also this Indian HR guy – who first of all is not supposed to be in that position as is reserved for Omanis – who behaved just like The Western Finance Manager in a meeting with the local GM of a company I was doing some HR Project with. He thought he was cracking a great joke in the meeting – and so was a German guy who pretended to be a friend – whilst all the time feeding poison to this same GM. In the end my contract was reduced time period wise – but I quit and left within half an hour of getting the new contract – remained unsigned – and resignation instead!

That is how the cookie crumbles. I really urge you to read my two Arab Management books above.

In summary and in conclusion – writing is not a dirty word! If you cannot write – do not try to belittle and marginalise those that can!

By Majid Al Suleimany

January 18th 2013.

Oh My God

Being The Safe Driver! 1

Open This Link For The Book Cover Sample

The book is being published now….!

Book Cover Being Safe Driver

Being The Safe Driver! Behind The Wheel!

The New Road Safety Book!

www.bethesafedriver.com

By Majid Al Suleimany

January 9, 2013

Filled with heartbreaking and emotional true stories, this illuminating book shows drivers everywhere the dangers of the road and the true cost of negligence.

FYI – The book has now been published and just awaiting orders! If interested…!

Oh My God!

Oh My God!

Short Book Description

The Sultanate of Oman has the highest number of automobile accidents and casualties in the world. With such rampant and reckless automobile behaviors on the rise, there has never been a better time to change the culture and safety of our roads. With this groundbreaking new book, drivers across the nation will finally have proof in hand as to why they should drive safer.

Filled with heartbreaking and emotional true stories, this illuminating book shows drivers everywhere the dangers of the road and the true cost of negligence. With high-ranking officials across the country acknowledging the importance of road safety, it’s time for drivers everywhere to be more careful and drive safer. An invaluable road safety tool, Behind the Wheel, New Road Safety Novel can save lives all across the country.

Oh My God B

Oh My God 2!

This eye-opening book emphasizes the importance of road safety and careful driving through a collection of real-life stories from accident victims who share the hard experiences and lessons they learned in order to better educate drivers everywhere. A vital read for anyone behind the wheel, this priceless book has the ability to save lives.

Inspired by a horrific crash which took the lives of a coworker’s family, Being the Safe Driver! strives to encourage safer driving across the world. Filled with dramatic, true stories of accidents and loss, the book’s poignant moments are sure to resonate with all readers. Whether an accident results in injury, property loss, or simply a shaken emotional self, reckless driving always has consequences. From horrible injuries to destroyed families, this enlightening book does a fantastic job of giving all readers reasons to become safe drivers.

Oh My God

Oh My God 3!

Book Description – Detailed

The Sultanate of Oman has the highest number of automobile accidents and casualties in the world. With such rampant and reckless automobile behaviors on the rise, there has never been a better time to change the culture and safety of our roads. With this groundbreaking new book, drivers across the nation will finally have proof in hand as to why they should drive safer.

Filled with heartbreaking and emotional true stories, this illuminating book shows drivers everywhere the dangers of the road and the true cost of negligence. With high-ranking officials across the country acknowledging the importance of road safety, it’s time for drivers everywhere to be more careful and drive safer. An invaluable road safety tool, Behind the Wheel! Being The Safe Driver! The New Road Safety Novel can save lives all across the country.

This eye-opening book emphasizes the importance of road safety and careful driving through a collection of real-life stories from accident victims who share the hard experiences and lessons they learned in order to better educate drivers everywhere. A vital read for anyone behind the wheel, this priceless book has the ability to save lives.

Inspired by a horrific crash which took the lives of a coworker’s family, Behind The Wheel! strives to encourage safer driving across the world. Filled with dramatic, true stories of accidents and loss, the book’s poignant moments are sure to resonate with all readers. Whether an accident results in injury, property loss, or simply a shaken emotional self, reckless driving always has consequences. From horrible injuries to destroyed families, this enlightening book does a fantastic job of giving all readers reasons to become safe drivers.

Already being lauded as one of the most important books to come out this year, Behind The Wheel- Being the Safe Driver! is poised to make a large impact on Omani streets. With favorable reviews and blessings from top figures in society from His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said to Our Grand Mufti, it’s clear to see that this is exactly the book that the nation has been waiting for. Using a noble goal and an effective method, this eye-opening book is certain to make a difference in every driver’s life.

Back Cover Text

The Sultanate of Oman has the highest number of automobile accidents and casualties in the world. With such rampant and reckless automobile behaviors on the rise, there has never been a better time to change the culture and safety of our roads. With this groundbreaking new book, drivers across the nation will finally have proof in hand as to why they should drive safer.

Filled with heartbreaking and emotional true stories, this illuminating book shows drivers everywhere the dangers of the road and the true cost of negligence. With high-ranking officials across the country acknowledging the importance of road safety, it’s time for drivers everywhere to be more careful and drive safer. An invaluable road safety tool, this work can save lives all across the country.

This eye-opening book by Majid Said Al Suleimany emphasizes the importance of road safety and careful driving through a collection of real-life stories from accident victims who share the hard experiences and lessons they learned in order to better educate drivers everywhere.

Inspired by a horrific crash which took the lives of a coworker’s family, the book strives to encourage safer driving across the country. Whether an accident results in injury, property loss, or simply a shaken emotional self, reckless driving always has consequences. From horrible injuries to destroyed families, this enlightening book does a fantastic job of giving all readers reasons to become safe drivers.

The Book – It Is All About Driving!

Based on real and true stories about Road Traffic Accidents victims – the impact and repercussions on their lives – their families, loved ones and all those around them – and as precautions and learning experiences to others!

If even one accident can be prevented on reading this book – then the purpose and intent of the book will have been achieved!

  • Gripping read and made me rethink what I knew about driving on the roads British HSE Expert
  • · Touched my heart reading such tragic stories regarding the carnage on the roads – Indian Lady Fan
  • Has changed my priorities and those of my children with regard to safety on our roads – British CEO
    • ·
    • · This is an issue that is touching all of us either directly or via very dear friends and relatives – Omani Senior Engineer and Consultant
    • · Excellent works brother and good luck! – Omani GM.
    • · Congratulations for the new book and your achievements. Wish you more and more success – Omani Senior Engineer
    • · A very good idea! – Omani IT Expert
    • · It’s is an interesting concept, especially when the number of accidents and causalities are on the rise in the country – Senior Journalist (Indian).
    • · An excellent idea! You should come and see the horrifying scenes we see daily in the Road Traffic Emergency Wards – Omani Lady Surgeon
    • · Something very dear and close to my heart – and another real life situation in our country – Excellent!! – Omani IT Consultant.
    • · Your contributions to this noble worthy National cause to reduce road accidents and fatalities should be noted – Senior Public Official.
    • · I read the book – and it made me cry! The wife had also cried! – Indian CEO.
    • · I believe you will do our Nation a huge favour to record these incidents in the stories – Omani IT Consultant
    • · I am very much impressed to read your article in The Muscat Daily dated 28th April. I would like to meet you personally and discuss something more on the subject which you have so nicely thought over – Head of Life Assurance (Indian)
    • · You have rightly said it. Fully agree. Believe it or not, you have become the voice of most of young Omanis. Keep writing and be our voice – Senior Journalist – Omani
    • · I give you my full permission and rights to copy anything from my website and from my book - for this great noble honourable worthy National cause. I hope people will read your book– learn from it – and not repeat our mistakes! – Road Accident Victim (Omani)
    • · Bad dangerous driving is considered as just the same as suicide or killer sins – if you kill yourself or others on the road – Great Religious Scholar

END.

Best Wishes and Regards,

Majid Al Suleimany

Drive Safely! – www.bethesafedriver.com

Majid New (2)

It Is So Sad – The Nemesis! Reply

Between Us Only!

The Nemesis!

These two weeks there were these news – apart from the usual ones in the Arab World of Egypt and Syria as main – of the death of Jacintha Saldanha – the Indian nurse subject of a prank Australian Radio Show by two Greig and Christian.

The other was the massacre of 20 lost-lives innocent children below the age of 10 by one crazed Adam Lanza. This happened in Sandy Hawk Elementary School in Newtown – Connecticut. At one time Newtown was considered as the 5th most peaceful state in USA! Even the USA President Barack Hussein Obama was emotional close to tears in his speech!

This week I was also very much disturbed, annoyed and perturbed by the USA Publishing Company not publishing my books – already paid for in full – because of the question of Images – though I had explained clearly to their Vice President Operations Lady with a signed document explaining the sources of my images. The books were fully paid for since July 2012 – but it has dragged on to date – one excuse after the other – in the end to decide either they publish my books – or refund me in full.

It should be stressed that they had published my earlier books – including The Arab Management books – please see www.myown-ebooks.com. I guess they are reluctant to publish the books is because of the articles inside the book – Between Us Only! Series – and some of the subjects could be sensitive to them – or they are just being protective of their own kind. Some of the subjects?

  • Rising Islamophobia – Live and Let Live!
  • The Arabs Will Never Learn!
  • No More Wars – Please!
  • Stop The Gaza Blockade!
  • The Jewish Diaspora!
  • We Need To Speak Out!
  • You Reap What You Sow!
  • A Question of Loyalty!
  • What Goes Around; Comes Around!

That is the only reason I can gather for their reluctance is for the above. Depending on how much they will refund – or change their minds in publishing the books – further action will depend on all the above only!

And of course, denying the voice to the other side. Being a Muslim and an Arab. That is how bad things are now in USA – they have lost their self respects and conscience – lost the old USA that protected the rights and freedom of others! Great shame!

One of the books was on Road Safety – the Novel type – carrying real true stories of Accident victims and their impact on their lives now – and with the increasing road accidents and fatalities especially in Oman GCC now! How can one even stop this book to be published? It smacks of open hatred, animosity – and racialism only!

Anyway, I was keen to write more on the poor massacred children – as children are children – devoid of race, creed, colour or nationality. We have seen poor Gazan children massacred in their homes by Israeli bombardments and air force strikes – just as we have seen so many others ‘collateral damages’ in other parts of the world!

I have also read about this visit from The USA Assistant Secretary of State – Beth Jones – with the title Oman a partner in global fight against terror and the very nice words she had to say about Oman in general!

Being that upset and annoyed – I will concentrate for today on the death of poor Nurse Jacintha Saldanha – with due respects and apologies here!

***

In my career life, I have worked with many Western bosses and peers. I always made a point that as soon as the main meal is served (and sweets!) – I make it a point to leave as soon as I can – especially when it is not only me from the family at the party – because this is usually followed by teases, jokes and pranks – some to unimaginable and intrusive personal levels! Of course the usual excuse is the free drinks being served!

To the extent that the next day they would come in – a bit better off – but still not sober – to apologise – if I had upset and or annoyed you in any way in that party! The people that usually get a special battering and treatment are those like us that are teetotalers – and not smokers!

Of course the belief was also – if you joined the fun and melee – the more chances were there for your promotion and advancement! And if you cannot beat them – join them syndromes! And if you have a Porsche, Mercedes or BMW as your car fancy – and or can play golf – the better still!

With due respects here! Not all of them were like that – there were many also that respected and esteemed local customs, traditions, heritage and culture. In one of the incidents that I will never ever forget in my life was this top CEO in the International Company who did not take offence – but actually joined in – when one of the senior Omanis (by age that is!) started using his hands to eat with us at the table!

I was trying to tactfully counsel him to use the spoon at least – but the good man got what I was trying to say – and told me – ‘let him enjoy his meal – you know what – I will join in! And though in the end the man came a hero – and a very wise leader – and not only as a the usual manager – that is asked to come in and intervene – but ends up supporting his own staff – and against a customer! Because the customer is an outsider!

Now you may well be asking me why I take the long road to come to the point – and what has Company parties have got to do with the earlier part of my column? If you know me – and the way I write – and straight from the hip – or the heart – depending on whom I am addressing here! With tongue in cheek speaking!

Do not forget I am a very angry and pissed off person still. People do not realise how attached we Writers are to our works – and how a Writer feels when his (her) books are marginalised and sidelined – and how traumatic, painful and emotional that can be! So please bear with me!

The point I want to make is that there are some people that always feel they can do whatever they want to do with others – and they are self-appointed on higher levels and echelons. This goes across the divide between locals and expatriates – guests and the invited – to the hosts too!

True we all enjoy fun, mirth and humour – which human being does not – in the real sense of the word? But sometimes doing pranks against or at the expense of others can be tolerated if one comes out finally and apologises it was a joke, tease and prank – immediately after – and not let the person feel so small and insignificant – so belittled and so insulted – that the poor person even decides to end his or her life – by committing suicide!

I must also admit and say this thing too – because we do not know how long we shall live in this world. Yesterday my cousin of 30 years old had died in Tanzania – after only a cold and flu! He did not recover – got high temperature – his treatment was bungled – and soon went into a coma – and death!

I must admit I have had many differences with peoples – sometimes I become very emotional and upset – and the worst thing I do is put my feelings on paper – and for some not open and objective people – that is like pouring fuel over fire – because they simply will not take that in! But find me a perfect person in this world – I would like to meet him (or her!) – And you too!

Only Our Lord and Our Creator is Perfect – no one else is!

Take Care!

By Majid Al Suleimany

P.S. I am not going to put any images today – that is how upset I am today

A - A Cry For Help!

Why I am so sad! Reply

December 10, 2012

Majid Al Suleimany

A – My Earlier Articles.

A.01 – The First Article

  • A Fresh Perspective Outlook on Omanisation – March 1982.
  • Times of Oman.
  • PDO Al Fahal Magazine

A.02 – The Second Article

A.03 – The Third Article

B Started as a Columnist in The Oman Daily Observer

A.02 Above – A.03 Below.

Please note that the interview was conducted 12 years ago – and I still think relevant and valid to a larger extent!

Visit my www.majidbooks.com on my Arab Management books (2) and Between Us Only! series…

Feel free to download, copy and forward….

Take Care!

Majid Said Nasser Al Suleimany

 

My Books – by Production Dates – www.myown-ebooks.com

www.majidbooks.com and www.bethesafedriver.com

 

Above – Between Us Only Series!

Arab Management Books – Above.

 

The New Books (Three)

Book Special Site – http://www.bethesafedriver.com

I am now Quitting! Reply

Majid Al SuleimanyTime To Quit Is Now!

Giving Up – Now!

  • · Writing is the only profession where no one considers you ridiculous if you earn no money – Jules Renard

I must admit that I am a sick person suffering from being an acute diabetic case and with eyes problems – cataract and glaucoma too. I also suffer from complications of so many other cases.

I had tried hard to send my books as gifts and compliments to Top VIPs and High Profile peoples – and hardly any thanks – with the exception of a few expatriate CEOs only.

Despite designing a Road Safety Website – www.bethesafedriver.com and writing a book on Road Safety Novel Type based on true life stories for others to know and learn from – nothing much has changed in being recognised and in acceptance!

Despite two Arab Management books – Psychology of Arab Management Thinking! And A Cry For Help! – even if you go to books worldwide you will find them being shown – at home nothing has changed much!

Only peoples’ concentrations are what I write in my columns – and why people would still prefer for the dirt to be pushed under the carpet – and me to shut up my mouth – not to open it – and speak!

So today – Saturday – December 8th 2012 – I am – finally – Giving Up!

We have all seen these Great Bands that had made to the top – and stayed there for quite awhile – and then they decided to disband! We have seen similar about dramas and soap operas – like Friends, Seinfield etc doing the same. Even stars like Oprah Winfrey etc.

The reason they give is the same. When you are on top – that is the time to quit – not earlier – not later! Quit whilst you have still made it – and quit where there is still some head room!

As fans that know me well I stumbled into writing more as a hobby and passion. I had never ever planned and or imagined to make a career in it. And a person who wants to make a career in writing should well know – do not depend on it for a living – otherwise you will starve to death. The story of Moawiyya Nur – the sad tragic Sudanese boy (journalist) who starved to death in trying to make a career in writing in downturn Cairo in the 1950s will well confirm and authencicate!

If I had been successful in my consultancy business and or in my career – it is most likely that I would not have gone into writing.

Today I have published 8 books – all the details are in my websites – www.myown-ebooks.com and www.majidbooks.com and www.bethesafedriver.com

2 books are in Arab Management – 1 Road Safety – and 5 in my column writings The Oman Daily Observer – Between Us Only! – At My Workplace! And Society Speaks! (KOM).

Lately I have felt strong vibes and feelings to quit. I feel it in me to stop writing. Besides saying all that I had wanted to say – nobody cares or feels what I write or say. I am just banging my head against brick walls – getting it swollen and red – and bleeding too.

Nobody appreciates or recognises what I do – anyway! Wasted time, efforts and energies – and just wasted loyalties and feelings too.

I am also not happy how my columns are being treated. Sometimes I am told we did not receive it – though copied to my addresses (and others) confirm as received. I do not know which are my days anymore.

It was supposed to be every Sunday and Wednesdays – but now are so irregular that I am myself confused!

There is an East African saying that goes like this – one does not have to tell you to go if you are a guest – the telltale signals are enough for you to know it is time that you left! Leave yourself!

I really had tried… hard!

Wishing you all the very best – and with sincere and genuine apologies –

Citizen – Majid bin Said bin Nasser Al Suleimany

BUO - The Sequel - 2

My Books in Eric Hoffer Awards Recognition! Reply

Good News on My Books!

www.myown-ebooks.com

www.bethesafedriver.com

www.majidbooks.com

After Compliments;

The mere fact that my two Arab Management books have now been entered in the exorbitant, prestigious and the famous (The USA) Eric Hoffer Book Award and The USA Review of Books is very good news to me. Finally, a recognition of my books achievements!

A The Two Arab Management Books (with eBooks): -

  • Psychology of Arab Management Thinking! – Context and Perspectives – Arabian Management Series.
  • A Cry For Help! – Context and Perspectives – Arabian Management Series.
  • Books Images – Below

B Three New Books Under Final Publication: -

  • Behind The Wheel! – The Road Safety Novel Book
  • Book Special Website – www.bethesafedriver.com
  • Between Us Only! – Short Takes – The Sequel – Two!
  • Between Us Only! – The Sequel – Three!
  • Books Images – Below

C Previous Between Us Only!

 In our Religion, Teachers and Scholars – including Writers are acknowledged – because their works will continue to educate and inform mankind – long time after they have gone – and their rewards continue even then!

I feel great (elated and relieved) leaving behind my works and in my contributions – Alhamdu Lillah – God Is Great! Amin Amen.

Besides – you cannot put a good thing down – however hard you try – because God Is Not With you!

Best Wishes and Regards;

Majid Al Suleimany

November 27, 2012

APTOPIX Mideast Israel Palestinians

Stop The Gaza Massacres – Now! Reply

Stop The Gaza Massacres – Now!

Leave The Gazan People Alone!

Or Live and Let Live!

Writing is a struggle against silence – Carlos Puentes

I am writing this as a human being – and a citizen of the land – and with rights and freedom to express myself – though trust me – I hate ‘politics’ for sure – and even in writing it!

As a small boy of 5 years of age I used to wonder out aloud this tease from the African elders that they used to make after a hawk (eagle) had scooped down and taken up in the air the before hurriedly and scurriedly running for cover baby chickens with their mother. Even the cock used to run too – instead of facing its ground the adversary!

The tease (joke) was that the chickens were cursing that ‘May the sky fall on the eagle!’ You cannot blame the Mother Chicken for saying that seeing its baby has already been taken away by the hawk! It is a desperate vain attempt to go on with life – with all the hawks around! And as if – when the sky will fall – it will exclude the chicken!

You will excuse me for the also simile and the metaphor – especially to those that love and defend our adversaries in privacy and in secrecy – whilst pretending and acting in front of us for whatever reason like wishing to keep the job and welcome etc.

But if I was a play or drama writer – and I had money to spare – I would write up this satirical tragical drama of how the so-called Israeli leaders find themselves lumped together and meeting Hitler in burning eternal hell – and their protesting that a grave and serious mistake has been made! Only this time – of all the machinations and schemers of their controlling media and their supporters would not work – because it is God that they are facing now!

Images – Gaza Massacres

In all my life, one thing that I hate the foremost is in ‘cursing people’ – but I can easily curse those people that do not see much or a great deal of killed babies, children and women – and even men – when bombs rain down on their homes – and killing entire families at one go! Sometimes I feel that even if he is in Hell – but Hitler and his Nazi cronies – cannot afford but smile and in jest – seeing his holocaust victims ‘doing it also to other peoples’ – and who had nothing to them in the past!

You will excuse me also for sounding religious and all the semantics and similes involved – and for those that do not know it – or know but prefer to marginalise and to ignore! But our Great Prophet Abraham (Ibrahim) – Peace Be Upon Him – is turning in his grave – seeing his grandchildren doing these things to each other! I am saying this as a Grandfather feels seeing sometimes my innocent young grandchildren fight each other – and with typical ‘chip of the old block’ feelings and expressions like ‘do not like you’ escapades and remarks!

I am certain and convinced that there would be some people saying to me that you are only looking at one side of the story – and not both sides – and ‘we expected better things from you’! I would retort that is how they control us through their media and our minds and outlooks – because Israel (and their supporters – disappointing others again – and that one too soon too!) – are very good in pushing things to the maximum – and when people react – unfortunately negatively and to their disadvantage – they start ‘history and episodes’ from these incidents – and not from the start of what they did! Sadly and with great hurt and sadness – to their blind supporters of whatever Israel is doing to others.

When Saddam Hussein attacked Iran (the Mullahs!) we in the Arab world remained quiet and passive – though we were warned and cautioned that one day he will do the same to us when that was over. Either we ignored it – or thought it could never happen – but it did happen in the invasion of Kuwait – and all Hell was let loose!

It seems to me that once again we have not learnt our lessons of history. I am saying that with due respects to both sides of the equation – that wants to divide the Islamic world into contrasting and conflicting political zones! And if those that see what is happening in Gaza now do not awake up from their deep sleep and slumber – then let them sleep for good – and not wake up ever again – because a person who can do this to your own brother ‘is definitely not your ally and or friend either! And you have got your priorities all mixed-up and all wrong! Blood is always thicker than water!

And that brings me to my next point I wish to make here too! The biggest casualty and victim in such wars is The Truth! It is just degrading and shameful – I would even say disgusting, repugnant and pathetic when ‘people in leadership’ – who should know better take side – to support blindly without any limitations and or boundaries – what the true Aggressor is doing to other human beings! Also my cautionary advice – to both sides – not to make a worse situation turn even more worse! Because it could drag the whole Middle East to conflict – and the whole world would suffer as a result!

If the Arab spring uprisings have not forewarned and ‘woken them up’ – let me try a desperate last attempt in resuscitation! Which is this! Even the young Arab true blood (and even Muslim) abhor and are disgusted to see what is going on – and done to other people by these peoples – who were themselves holocaust victims – but have now easily and conveniently forgotten. Our Great Prophet Moses (Musa) is just another chapter in the history!

What I mean to say is that future relationships between people – especially with the young ones – are critically damaged for ever and for good – and that is not only internationally and globally – but even internal too. Even to the expatriates in the GCC countries even for that matter!

The world now has become a more dangerous and unsafe place with all that is going on – and the increased extremism, fundamentalism and radicalisation – and sadly and tragically with even the younger ones too – and the future leaders in society

People should learn to live and let live – and we have enough problems and hardships already to be increased by such unneeded wars, destructions, malaise, decadence and wastages of wars. And we will all die one day – and meet our Maker! If you had escaped the Human Rights courts of the world – there is definitely a Higher Judge just waiting for you – and that will be the day when you meet him!

I would advise the Israelis and all their blind supporters to hear this interview between Sir Robert Frost and Bishop Desmond Tutu in Al Jazeera TV – posted here too and in in www.majidwrite.com – and time to change fast before it is too late!

 May peace, understanding, tolerance, co-existence and patience prevail – including pragmatism and senses – Amin Amen! Take Care!

By Majid Al Suleimany

Posted at: www.majidall.com and at www.majidwrite.com

Desmond Tutu 1

The Sir Robert Frost and Bishop Desmond Tutu Interview! Reply

 

The Sir Robert Frost and Bishop Desmond Tutu Interview!

Not Going Quietly!

A Lesson To Learn For Israel – and Others To Revisit!

Please Reread The History Books!!

The Frost Interview

Desmond Tutu: Not going quietly

The Nobel laureate on his role in South Africa’s struggle against apartheid and his alarm over recent developments.

http://www.aljazeera.com/programmes/frostinterview/2012/11/20121112125225355813.html

Archbishop Desmond Tutu, the famous Nobel Peace laureate, and one of the world’s most respected church leaders, was a central figure in ensuring an end to white minority rule in South Africa.

He was instrumental in the struggle against apartheid, also acting as chairman of South Africa’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC). He has since gone on to play a role as one of Nelson Mandela’s handpicked ‘Elders’ along with others like former US President Jimmy Carter.

The archbishop takes Sir David Frost on a tour of his beloved South Africa; he talks about his time in the anti-apartheid struggle movement, his work with the TRC, and his alarm over recent developments in the “rainbow nation”.

As a defiant campaigner against apartheid, Tutu is one of the world’s most prominent defenders of human rights.

Growing up in a racially divided state he tells Sir David how hard it was to explain South African politics to his children:

“We’d just come back from England with our youngest child. The youngest was born in London and she saw some children playing on swings and she said, ‘I want to go and play’ and, we had to say, ‘No sweetheart, you can’t’.

“And she said, ‘But there all the children playing’, and it was incredibly difficult. It really just made you feel, ‘I wish the ground could open and swallow me up’. How do I tell my child that, yes you are a child, but you’re not a child like those other children who are on the swings?”

The archbishop recalls how the injustices he saw under apartheid tested his Christian faith:

“I really got very angry with God, and would rail at God and say: For goodness sake, how can you allow such and such to happen?”

But he later says: “Someone up there must really have been on our side or batting for us …. After [Nelson Mandela's] release and the build-up to our first democratic election, it was one of the roughest, one of the bloodiest, periods in our history.”

Tutu hails Mandela as an “incredible guy!” – after all Mandela was a prominent participant in the negotiations that led to South Africa’s peaceful transition from apartheid to democracy.

“His contribution is immeasurable; his stature,” says Tutu. “I mean for someone who was the commander-in-chief of the military wing of the ANC to be at the forefront of persuading people that it would be better for us to negotiate; it is better for us to lay down our arms. And then to try to live that.”

Moving forward, Tutu expresses his concerns about the direction the current government in South Africa is headed. He has also become more outspoken about his criticism of the ruling party, and the rainbow nation, of what he was once so proud.

“We are a wounded people” Tutu says, recalling the painful testimonies he heard as chairman of the TRC hearings.

The Frost Interview can be seen each week at the following times GMT: Friday: 2000; Saturday: 1200; Sunday: 0100; Monday: 0600.

REMARKS

  • Asking God – How can you allow such things and injustices to happen (in Apartheid South Africa then!)
  • His home was destroyed by the Apartheid Regime because of his stand!
  • “We will not buckle under their system” – he said
  • The Apartheid Regime behaved exactly the same as Zionist Israel (Benjamin Netanyahu) is behaving now!
  • That they were always right, correct, ethical and perfect – others not and inferior peoples and race – and one can do what they wanted with them!
  • History is on the side of The Arabs and The Palestinians – and time and history will prove that to be correct!
  • They will win one day!
  • Anyway The Arab World has now changed – not what it was before The Arab Spring!
  • Biggest casualty is The Truth!
  • And future relations between Nations – starting with our current Youth!
  • They will not forget – They will remember!
  • We pray for sanity, reason, pragmatism and sense and responsibilities!
  • People are already tired with costs and hardships of living – we see demonstrations and protests all over the world now – even in Western Europe and even Israel – and USA too!
  • People should learn to live together in this globe in peace, harmony, tolerance, patience and understanding – Live and Let Live!
  • We owe it to our future – history – legacy – destiny and future!
  • One should not make a bad state of affairs turn even more nasty and worse! Applies to ALL!
  • God CURSE those that use babies, children and women killed and maimed as Collateral Damage!
  • May The Butcher Israeli Leaders join Hitler in Hell AMEN AMIN

 

 

A - A Cry For Help! (2)

A Cry For Help! Book Hits Worldwide Circulation! Reply

Book By Majid Al Suleimany – Omani National.

FYI

 http://www.prweb.com/releases/2012/11/prweb10077256.htm

 

Majid Al Suleimany’s Exciting New Book is

“A Cry for Help!”

 “A Cry for Help!” examines the management

styles of Arabian Gulf Corporation Council

countries

 A frank, honest and open book exposing the increasing lack of ethics, principles, professionalism and tolerance in the office environment

Muscat, Oman (PRWEB) November 01, 2012

Muscat, Oman Author Majid Al Suleimany exposes the increasing extremism, fundamentalism and radicalization in management styles and employees’ receptions and reaction in his new book “A Cry for Help!” (published by Trafford Publishing)

With over 35 years of human resource experience in Oman and with the Gulf Cooperation Council countries, Al Suleimany digs deep into the Arab office environment. Suleimany spins “a frank, honest and open book exposing the increasing lack of ethics, principles, professionalism and tolerance in the office environment.”

“A Cry for Help!” focuses on the particular type of management that is being used in the Arab workplace while explaining the context and perspectives in the work environment. He goes on to explain what is peculiar, special, or particular to that work in the context of, and in comparison to, management styles of other nations.

About the Author

Majid Al Suleimany resides in Oman with his wife and four children. He has published four other books: “Psychology of Arab management!,” “The Sequel – Between Us Only!,” “Short Takes – Between Us Only!” and “Between Us Only! Book One.” He has two others in production: “Between Us Only! The Sequel Three” and “Behind the Wheel!” Al Suleimany is also a columnist for The Oman Daily Observer. He has worked in management, human resources and as a consultant for over 35 years in Oman.

Trafford Publishing, an Author Solutions, Inc. author services imprint, was the first publisher in the world to offer an “on-demand publishing service,” and has led the independent publishing revolution since its establishment in 1995. Trafford was also one of the earliest publishers to utilize the Internet for selling books. More than 10,000 authors from over 120 countries have utilized Trafford’s experience for self publishing their books. For more information about Trafford Publishing, or to publish your book

A      MAIN SITE

http://www.prweb.com/releases/2012/11/prweb10077256.htm

B      THE BOOKS WEBSITES

http://bookstore.trafford.com/Products/SKU-000142695/A-Cry-For-Help

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/c/majid-al-suleimany

http://www.amazon.com/Cry-Help-Majid-Al-Suleimany/dp/1426920628

C      How To Order The Books

http://myown-ebooks.com/about-my-books-and-how-to-order/

http://myown-ebooks.com/my-books%e2%80%99-synopsis/

D      Oman TOURISM – Click For English

http://www.omantourism.gov.om/wps/portal/mot/tourism/oman/home

http://www.omantourism.gov.om/wps/portal/mot/tourism/oman/home/english Best

Best Wishes and Regards,

Majid Al Suleimany

Drive Safely! – www.bethesafedriver.com

ubuntu-3[1]

The Philosophy of Ubuntu! Reply

The Ubuntu Philosophy!

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ubuntu_(philosophy)

I am because we are! – How can one of us be happy if all the others are sad?

An anthropologist studying the habits and customs of an African tribe found himself surrounded by children most days. So he decided to play a little game with them. He managed to get candies from the nearest town, and put it all in a decorated basket at the foot of a tree. Then he called the children and suggested they play a game.

When the anthropologist said “Now!” the children had to run to the tree, and the first one to get there could have ALL the candies to himself/herself. So the children all lined up waiting for the signal.

Images – Ubuntu

When the anthropologist said “Now!”, all the children held each others’ hand and ran together towards the tree. They all arrived at the same time, divided up the candies, sat down, and began to happily munch away.

The anthropologist went over to them and asked why they had all run together, when any one of them could have had the candies all to himself/herself.

Images – Ubuntu – For Demonstration Purposes Onl;y!

The children responded: “Ubuntu”! How could any one of us be happy if all the others were sad?”

Ubuntu is a philosophy of some African tribes that can be summed up as “I am what I am because of who we all are.”This can teach us all many things about life!

In East African Swahili Uutu – Uutu bora kuliko Viitu.

Humanity is better than things (materialism, consumerism and individualism)…

Desmond Tutu, Nelson Mandela, Thabo Mbeki – South Africa –  and Ubuntu!

Condemning apartheid, Tutu warned that “The oppressed could become tomorrow’s oppressors because sin is an ever-present possibility”  The philosophy that Tutu, Mandela, and Mbeki share is the philosophy of ubuntu. Ubuntu originates in the Bantu Language and Peoples – including the Zulus in South Africa.

Generally speaking, ubuntu means “humanity” and is related to umuntu, which is the category of intelligent human being. Bishop Desmond Tutu has defined ubuntu as the person who is welcoming, hospitable, warm and generous, affirming of others, and who does not feel threatened that others are able and good; [this person] has a proper self-assurance that comes from knowing they belong to a greater whole, are diminished when another is humiliated, diminished, tortured, oppressed, and threatened as if they were less than they are . Tutu has also defined ubuntu as the quality of interaction in which one’s own humanness depends on recognizing it in the other!

We human beings are in this lot together – and there are a lot of things that we can learn from each other in this world today.

Best Wishes and Regards,

Majid Al Suleimany

pride-5[1]

The Feeling of Being More Important Than Others! Reply

Between Us Only!

The Disease of Pride!

Or Feeling More Important Than Others!

Those that are my avowed Readers and Fans will no doubt acknowledge that – I always do write from my own personal experiences and exposures and as my references – and from incidents and episodes recently that have happened to me – or to people I know well for surety! This new disease of false pride is becoming increasingly rampant in the society now!

Let us start with some quotes first – on Pride: -

  • Certainly Allah does not love the proud ones. – The Holy Quraan – 16:23
  • Whosoever has in his heart, even an atom of pride he will not enter paradise – The Islamic Hadith
  • Pride is an admission of weakness, it secretly fears all competition and dreads all rivals – Fulton J. Sheen
  • A proud man is always looking down on things and people – and thus cannot see anything above him – C. S. Lewis
  • The truest characters of ignorance are vanity and pride – Samuel Butler
  • The infinitely little have a pride infinitely great – Voltaire
  • Pride comes before a fall – Famous
  • The one who climbs a ladder will have to come down! – East African saying

Long time ago, I watched this film where the ex Dictator Iddi Amin of Uganda was showing off this certificate to a cheering crowd. Then He tore the paper into two – saying aloud – Now Mr. P – you are no longer a citizen of Uganda! That is the end of a ‘paper citizen’ – and as he sends into exile thousands of Asians to all parts of the world – but mainly Canada and UK. Little did he realise that he created multi-millionaires of these exiles. Nor did he realise that one day he will too be exiled – and die in an exiled country – Saudi Arabia!

Last week I had some problems – again on ‘services’ – and as the usual unflinching M – I had phoned first to their Head Offices. Not getting any cheers, I decided to go to their website and put in ‘my beef’ – so to speak! I then followed it with an email to the Top Brass of the place. Sure enough from the top echelon came the response – Access Denied.

Image Proud!

Truthfully from those in the lower levels came a positive response. So I phoned back to one and asked him most tactfully and diplomatically as I could – after even the abruptness and unnecessary provocation and insult! So I asked him why were my emails being returned to me? He sarcastically retorted that the BIG PEOPLE have no time for such trifles. So I asked him again – Did you mean trifles things – or trifle people? Knowing that I was trying to corner and trap him he just said to me just – Trust me – we are looking into your complaint – and we shall handle it soonest. But I had time still to say – if a VIP had emailed him – he would certainly not send back that email!

Image Pride (and Prejudice!)

A few months ago I had a similar issue and dispute with another establishment – sadly and tragically always in the news – and how good they are! I was impressed when the Secretary called me to say that the ‘Big Man’ himself wanted to talk to me! Came on to my best behaviour and performances! So he asked me – do we talk in English or in Arabic? I retorted – whichever you prefer! Then he reprimanded me saying (in English!) – That this person that you are complaining about? I can give him my heart and soul – and I can go to sleep – and when I awake up – he will give them back to me!

I do not know how that would have been possible – so M being M – I retorted to him that just now by your comments – you have left the fold of our Religion – by associating man with God – because only God can take a soul (heart) and return it – not a human being! That seemed to upset him a lot and went into almost vulgarities – unfortunately was not taping him! He said things about how negative you are in outlooks – and it was a big mistake this newspaper was giving you a column to write!

The Peacock Proud!

ImagesPride – For Demonstration Purposes Only!

So to add fire to fuel – I retorted back – not a column – but two my friend! The word ‘friend’ coming from me seemed to upset him all the more! I had a very long hearty laugh to myself – when twists and ironies of life – he accused me of being ‘with chips on your shoulders – and a very proud pompous person!

Yesterday I had a long overdue chat with my son. He was lamenting to me that his friends found him ‘very open and receptive – and in speaking his mind’. They asked him how it was that he was different from them – that they had sort of a closed mind – and not open to raise issues openly on the front – instead of complaining in the back and behind scenes! And to where did he get his courage – and guts from?

So my son told them – my father has got it (this) from his father. His father had brought them up ‘not to be afraid and scared’ – speak the TRUTH always – and speak openly their mind – their concerns and worries – and not to be afraid and fearful except to the Good Lord only! If someone respects you – you must also reciprocate. But never allow anyone to scare, bully or push you down! Yes – his friends – said we can see now why we are different – because nobody had encouraged us that way and not to be afraid – but all just the opposite!

I can see that now happening with even my grandchildren! The other day I was teasing my granddaughter T where her housemaid had gone? She retorted – Granny how many times must I tell you that she has returned to Philippines? I was laughing to myself all inside me – that in another house hold she would have received a slap from different people for ‘insulting Granny!’

In the early 1970s when our families returned to Oman – I was just chatting mildly with a peer on mild issues – when he came in guns blazing – you have no right to talk anything on this matter! When I queried him why – he retorted – you were not born here! So please shut your trap – unsaid! I sadly looked at him and said – My friend – do you think being born in a place is the only criteria that matters? He retorted back yes – and I reminded him in a very tactful and diplomatic way why he was very wrong and misguided!

The saddest and tragic part was he was just a poor working person like me – and if the worst came to the worst I at least could use my father, great Mother and grandparents as ‘being a chip and part of the old block’! Unfortunately for him – he could not do the same – but yet had the pride in him to silence all others! I can now understand and appreciate now why my son is that much worried and concerned too!

Take Care!

By:-

Majid Al Suleimany

Columns posted at www.majidwrite.com and www.majidall.com

end-of-power-and-being-rich[1]

The Great King Alexander Three Death Wishes! Reply

The Great King Alexander Three Death Wishes –

 

After conquering many kingdoms – was returning home. On the way, he fell ill and he was bedridden for months. With death drawing close, Alexander realized how his conquests – his great army – his sharp sword and all his wealth were of no use to him now.

He called all his generals and said – I will depart from the world soon. But I have three wishes. Please fulfill my wishes without fail. With tears flowing down their cheeks, the generals agreed to abide by their King’s last wishes

My First Desire is that – said Alexander – my Physicians alone must carry my coffin. Secondly – when my coffin is being carried to the grave – the path leading to the graveyard should be strewn with gold, silver and precious stones which I have collected in my treasury. My Third and Last wish is that both my hands should be kept dangling out of my coffin.

The people that had gathered there wondered at the King’s strange wishes. But no one dared to question; Alexander’s favorite general kissed his hand and pressed them to his heart. O King – we assure you that your wishes will all be fulfilled. But tell us why do you make such strange wishes?

At this Alexander took a deep breath and said – I would like the World to know of Three Lessons I have just learnt. I want my Physicians to carry my coffin because people should realize that no Doctor can really cure anybody. They are powerless and cannot save a person from the clutches of Death. So let not people take life for granted.

The Second Wish of strewing gold, silver and other riches on the way to the graveyard is to tell people that that not even a fraction of gold can be taken by me. Let people realize that it is a sheer waste of time to chase wealth.

And about my Third Wish of having my hands dangling out of the coffin – I want people to know that I came empty handed into this world – and empty handed I go out of this world.

Alexander’s last words – Bury my body – do not build any monument for me – keep my hands outside so that the world knows the person who conquered the world had nothing in his hands when dying……

Majid New (2)

The Dawning of Lost Respects! Reply

The Dawning of Lost Respects!

  • Your living is determined not so much by what life brings to
    you as by the attitude you bring to life; not so much by what
    happens to you as by the way your mind looks at what happens     - Khalil Gibran
  • The problems that we are all facing us now all over is all due to this great craved hunger to always intimidate, control, dominate and manipulate others in the Society….!!!

Like I always say in my columns and in my books too – there comes a time in our lives when you have to make really hard and tough decisions – of what your next step and future is going to be. You must make those decisions because the situation can no longer be allowed to go on in your life. Your own intuition and gut feelings tell you that you must make this decision – even that thin distant voice in you is pleading to you to ‘make that decision – and go for it’!

What do you say to someone that you have respected and committed to in all your life – and lets you down badly – disappoints you badly – and makes you feel that all the loyalties, dedications, commitments were wasted energies and exercises? Shows you crystal clear that you have wasted and destroyed your career, your life and even your future for nothing? All wasted and gone?

When you esteem and respect someone – is it because you are afraid of him? Or is it because you may want something from him? Some favour or reward from him? Or could it be that the respects are natural, sincere and genuine – and you really care and feel? Or is it because you want him to look at you in ‘good eyes’ – because otherwise there may come danger and harm to you – and especially from his side or direction?

In my career life, I have always wondered how some individuals survive ‘very nasty bad bosses’ – and are actually even their likes and favourites – whilst the rest of us suffer and in dangers! Afraid not because we respect him in reality – but despise him – and have the highest contempt for him – but are afraid to show it – because in exposing your true feelings and grit – it will be you that will suffer the most? Not him and his cronies – but only you!

You have to go along and pretend that you do respect him when he is around – or within earshot of him and his spies and cronies? Is this acting, facade and pretensions not really taxing and hard on you – especially when he insults, ridicules you – and makes you small, inferior and fair game – and when in need of his ego busting exercises – and show off to his cronies – and you are the victim of his whims and craze – to boost his ego? Thinking to himself that he is still powerful, controlling, dominating and manipulating – and nothing – simply nothing – can touch him!

In my first article in this column – titled More Dangerous and Troubled Waters Ahead – and dated April 23rd 2003 – over nine years ago – I said – Quote -   …..But then the Iraq war dawned on us, and it took a dramatic turn to write something else on ‘the war’ instead ….. I was the sole voice who said we should prepare for the war and the contingencies in retrospect. I got on a scare technique to frighten expatriates (or was it I was anti-expatriate) and beating up the war ‘drums’.  On the 17th January, 1991 –   I was vindicated …. Yet after that meeting I was the loneliest person on the face of the earth – with even my pees turning up against me! - Unquote.

My career prospects and future was tarnished and killed – because I had the courage and guts to stand up – and make my voice heard – and not take things the easy convenient and comfortable way by going along with the popular views – and outlooks! But yet still imagine this was 9 years ago! And have things changed much? I do not think so! It would not surprise me if it would be completely the opposite!

In my career life I have said on things that others chose to ignore – not because I was not saying the truth or on the realities in life – but people were either disinterested – and or chose not to get involved!

Recently I have been keeping to myself like a hermit – and avoiding as best as I can – even family gatherings! If I have to – I have the lunch and or dinner – and then leave. I do not allow anymore anyone to insult or degenerate me – because of a plate of rice and a few morsels! So I have decided to keep to myself – as I think it is better for everyone – because my character and behaviour nowadays is always not to try to care that much anymore – and to get involved!

This is because of the last Consultancy job where I was deeply insulted and hurt – and all those I went for solace – completely ignored me! And then to add other things that have insulted my intelligence as a human being – adding fuel to the fire already burning!

I even avoid going for congregation prayers – because there will certainly be someone there to annoy and upset me even – and for no reason other than that they think that they still can do so – though they are no longer my bosses – but their mindsets and frames still think that they are still. That is how bad, decadent and malaise the situation has turned out now to be!

The more when some of the hypocrites come whispering to me – now after all the times – that we were with you in our heart – but we did not have the courage and guts to come out openly. Even if we showed outside to the others that we ‘played we were not with you! Or in our hearts we were secretly admiring you – and encouraging you all inside – and even wishing you success all inside us!

Then there are those who made a lot of promises to me ‘to go into business’ – after opting for early voluntary retirement – and we will certainly support and help you – be master of your own domain and entity – be the boss of yourself – and work for yourself – instead of for others! When my Consultancy was faltering and slowly and painfully dying – I desperately even went to the homes and offices of the same people. They all mocked and teased me behind my back – and never lifted a finger to help!

Some even said to me – why should we help you? Tomorrow you will drive a Lexus, stay in Shatt Al Qorum – and what will we get? Nothing! Some said – we are not in that type of business to help – yet now the same people are even in all types and kinds of businesses!

But it does not bother me now – though I still suffer consequences and repercussions of my consultancy business closures. Though I did recruit 7 Omanis – and 3 of them First Time jobs after Colleges!

It took my mail to bounce back to me – when I informed on my new books – to come to my senses and wake me up – to realise that even though I am now away from them in business side – no need of their help! But even in writings – I am still the same person to them – to be ignored, belittled and to be marginalised. You see the problems with me in ever still seeing good in people – and there is hope and change!

And never learning my lesson. When I sent in my books and they did not even have the courtesy to acknowledge – that should have awoken me – but then I am a deep sleeper!

Finally – The Dawning of Lost Respects!

BUO-The-Sequel-2-238x300[1]

All About My New Books – Three! Reply

My New Books Under Publication – Three!

Please visit www.myown-ebooks.com and www.bethesafedriver.com

Three New Books.

1 Behind The Whel! – Road Safety Novel Book. – www.bethesafedriver.com

2 Between Us Only! – The Sequel – Book 3.

3 Between Us Only! – Short Takes! – The Sequel – Two!

Previous Books – www.myown-ebooks.com

1 Between Us Only!

2 The Sequel – Between Us Only!

3 Short Takes – Between Us Only!

4 Psychology of Arab Management Thinking! – Book One – Arab Management.

5 A Cry For Help! – Context and Perspectives – Arabian Management Series!

(Book Two in Arab Management)

Images in www.myown-ebooks.com

Best Wishes and Regards,

Majid Al Suleimany

Muscat – Sultanate of Oman.

September 30th, 2012

End of Power and Being Rich

How Rich Can One Get? By Majid Al Suleimany Reply

 

Between Us Only!

How Rich Can One Get?

Image – Final Destination! – The Grave!

September 24, 2012

Image – The Funeral Pyre!

Breaking News!

Former Chinese Police Chief Wang Lijun sentenced to 15 years for abdication of duties…even in China!

One time decades back I got this call from my late Father to go and pick him up to take him for a funeral that was happening that evening. He got into my car and was not speaking. I thought perhaps because I came in late – or he just wanted to be silent – normally – when he gets extremely angry and annoyed. I had come to realise the hard way that it was better for me ‘not to prod’ – until he decided to speak himself. This time it was acute strange because he was not saying anything – longer than usual!

My Late Father PBUH

I was wondering if the old man wanted to cry – but he was holding his tears back – not to embarrass himself in front of his son. He comes from the fabric that frowns on showing emotions openly – and that is certainly in crying! Big men – and even young boys – simply do not cry! You can all cry and break into pieces all held dear all inside. Only ‘sissies’ cry out openly!

After the funeral, I could see that he now wanted to talk. So I broke the ice by asking what the poor man had died of? He stared at me as if he was going to take it out all on me – but decided at the last minute not to! Then he said – Poor man! We were everyday going to the Public place – to chase up on the applications of land for our children.

Poor man! Now he got his final plot – and it was for free! He did not have to pay any money for the plot – it was given to him for free! Just the size of his body – a bit more – but 6 feet down – to rest on his right side facing Mecca – until the Day of Reckoning! I tell you son – all these things we are chasing in life are all temporary and artificial – and there is nothing permanent and for surety except God – and Death only!

Then my poor father told me about one business man he also knew whose business had gone bust. Many reasons for it – he was telling me. But that is not important for now. In short, the man almost lost his house to the Banks – but luckily for him it was the only house he had – and there was the law to protect such cases – such in the past. He had two cars – one his and the other family. He sold off his family big car to settle debts – but kept the smaller car.

When he wanted to register the car – and when one day he wanted to go by road and to visit his relatives in a neighbouring country – he was not allowed to do so – because though he had cleared his case – and his name in the public files was still not cleared as such – and was still blacklisted! .

Images – Traffic Police – For Demonstration purposes only!

He did not have even the basic rights to renew the Mulkiya of his car – and he was driving the car ‘unlicensed and un re-registered’ – and he was afraid of in case of an accident of what was going to happen to him! It took more than 8 months to have ‘his name cleared’ – all because he was just a poor man – and had no Wastah. Thank Allah God who takes shorter time to clear us! – he sadly lamented!

He added – Such things do not happen to the rich, powerful and the famous – only poor people like him – and us! In the end, the man was so fed up – and decided to return for good to East Africa – safety or no safety – security or no security – but he just had enough! My poor father added – This man was stronger than this man who died today – God forgive us for such stray thoughts in comparisons!

I do not know if this is true or not – but one of the jokes on the public sector bribes and corruption in one third world country is about lands being allocated to the families of ‘those of influence’ – or as we say here ‘With W – Wastah! They say to a pregnant inner family or friends circle – If it is going to be a girl call her Badriya – and if boy Badr – names just coincidental – for examples and demonstration purposes only! I do not know if they knew these things of scanning – because like yours truly had twin girls – so one of the girls would have lost – till a bit later on!

In one of my articles long time back – I talked about when I started working in Oman in Junior positions – though I had a more Senior position from where I came in that distant land – from having a Company car to riding a Company bus to work. But it did not put me off – or want to return – because I put my future and my family ahead of me!

In one of my deep frustrating times far later in life – I even went looking for jobs outside that oil company. In one of the interviews with one owners’ son he asked me a direct personal question of what really made M tick? He asked me – What are your dreams and what are you looking for in life?

Perhaps he thought I would reply him that I wanted to be in his shoes – to be on his side of the desk – asking the same question to another job aspirant! Then he started lamenting to me all kind of things that were not interesting to me as a job applicant – and the success story of their family business! He then asked me if I knew another so-called rich rising family – and why I did not apply there?

In another place the ‘great personality’ was saying to me – Either we offer you a good package or nothing at all. It seemed to me he was thinking he was making a great speech impression to me – because those things are best not said – and left out – because it was just a plain commonsense message – and everybody knows about these things!

Remember all the above incidents were over 15 to 20 years ago! Far later in life – when I started writing I had a strong fan – a sort of high elite rich person who really liked my works as a writer. He said to me – I like the way you fight for the underdog! When I applied some years ago – after early retirement – for a Human Resources job in his place – he replied to me – Just keep to writing! That best suits you than a HR job! The Brits have this famous expression – Diplomacy is telling someone to go to hell – and he looks forward for the trip!

If even Mitt Romney of USA can discount 47% of the electoral vote – because ‘they are with him (Obama) – who are dependant upon government, who believe that they are victims , who believe the government has a responsibility to care for them, who believe to housing, you name it. They are people who pay no income tax ….. my job is not to worry about those people!

Bottom line – wherever you are in this world of ours – if you are poor and with no Wastah – you always get hit hard the most! Nothing has changed much during all these years! And then people dare to ask me why I like to quote many times – from George Orwell’s Animal Farm!

May The Good Lord Direct us all to The Right Path and Ways Always – Amin Amen

Take Care!

By Majid Al Suleimany

The problems all facing us now is all due to this hunger to control, dominate and manipulate in the Society….!!!

corruption-5[1]

Are You Looking For A Bribe? By Majid Al Suleimany Reply

For Sunday September 9th 2012

My Website – www.majidall.com

Between Us Only!

  • There is a local East African famous song that talks of ‘difficulties and problems’ of travelling – and so many eye-openers that you will meet in life – and especially when you travel in the world!
  • The way that some Officials in Public Places still behave does makes one wonder aloud – if they are after bribes?
  • The eyes of the people are watching you! – Sierra Leone – Fight Against Corruption Banner
  • God cursed the one who pays a bribe, the one who takes it and the mediator between the two – Islamic Hadith (Narrations)
  • If these same Officials were at the Heavens’ Gates, no one will get into Heaven! – My Late Father

A long time ago I was travelling to this Far Eastern country – and as I was getting out of the toilet – this old type of a man gave me a hand towel to wash my hands. I noticed that there were no tissues or towels in the toilet area – and I was saying to myself that this was a very good thing in customer personal services by them – when the shock was on me when he asked for a ‘bakhshish’ – a decent polite word describing ‘he wanted a bribe’ from me for using the towel!

Similarly, in one of the places I had visited in East Africa – I wanted to travel to another town to meet some of my relatives who were staying there. I went to the Airlines Travel Agency to book myself a flight. The man wanted to see what kind of passport I had – and I told him that though I speak the home lingo very well – but I was carrying a ‘foreign passport’.

In memory – Mohamed BuAzizi

This was none of his business on the outset – as I was going to pay in USA Dollars anyway – as I had told him this already in the beginning. But he insisted on seeing my passport – which was irrelevant as the place was within the country anyway – even if there was an International Airport there – but the flights were internal and domestic!

Being bull-headed and resistant – I was saying to myself that I will not bribe for this ticket at whatever costs to me! My desperate relatives there keen to see me told me that it was the ‘norm’ to give out something (a bribe?) – if I really wanted to travel. The man pretended to go inside ‘as he told me to check’ the Passengers Manifesto. Sure enough he came back to me to say the plane was ‘full’ – even First Class as another option that I had tried! So I decided to go back rather than pay the bribe. But I said to myself – I never received a bribe in my life – and for certain I will not pay one either.

Im

Image The Slapping Police Woman – Fadia Al Hamdi

Eventually I had to give him USA Dollars 20 against everything I held dear as my principles and ethics, because my Late Uncle was blaming me that I really did not want to see them – and I was just finding an excuse of not paying the bribe as not wanting to see them! Everyone is doing it – so what is the big deal. This is not Oman – my late Uncle cried out to me. Am I not your blood too? Remember this was a long time ago – not now as the tables are slowly turning even there for corruption and bribery – with even famous people being singled out in The Press – and that is how fast the world is changing now!

When I boarded the plane it was half empty – and there were only two people in the First Class cabin! The Airhostesses kept insisting for me to take in some more sandwiches and drinks – and I was not sure whether they were just doing their jobs professionally and ethically – or perhaps too looking in a more decent way for some ‘bakhshish’ too! I was not surprised when I learnt later on that the Airline went bankrupt – with such corrupt and bribery infested officials working with them!

My Uncle had given me ‘his best car’ for me to use whilst there. As we were returning home late at night, this Traffic Policeman on his motorbike started chasing me. I stopped and he then wanted to book me – because one of my car rear lights was off (even the brakes one). So he was making a big deal that vehicles behind me may think ahead was a motorcycle – and not a car – and what could follow was a very nasty road accident – and that would be attributed to me.

No joking or teasing stuff because I was really scared – and I had never before been booked for any traffic offence or violation – but my relative was cool – and said to me in Arabic to give him some local money to give the man! There was ‘another bargaining’ going on when he saw my International Driving License – as I did not know it was required to be officially locally stamped as well!

Finally he took what I had a few low denomination USA Dollars currency with me – in addition to the ‘bigger’ local currency. He waved us off cheerfully saying if anyone else stops you on the way – please tell them you already saw him (nick name)! A few days later I returned to Oman – holidays or no holidays – because I had enough!

If you are an avowed Reader of mine you may notice I had said about these cases before – and even more embarrassing ones too when I had to deal with such bribery and corruption issues – and more after I went for Early Retirement in 1998 in my Oil Company then!

Last week I was really astounded – to say the least – to see that there are many cases awaiting to be presented for persecution – and some based on corruption allegations in especially public offices. Frankly, I feel and would support that it includes also Public Sector and National Companies and Officials’ behaviours and attitudes too in their dealings – and this too to be added in the list

And for that matter even other Private Sector companies too – even the Family run ones – together with their bosses and owners. We see always the same Big Companies getting the same big contracts too – day in and day out! It maybe just coincidental – but if even the FBI and the CIA have ‘Insiders’ investigating their own – they cannot be that far wrong!

In all my writing career now over 9 years, I have yet to see much more of The Senior Columnists saying that they have been to a Public Office – and have come back ‘happy and fulfilled’. My first articles were Bureaucracy (and Red Tape) in The Public Sector – my first book – Between Us Only! – www.majidbooks.com and www.myown-ebooks.com That was one of the articles that had ‘launched’ my writing career as an ‘ambition, hobby and passion’ with this esteemed newspaper – which came to my salvation ‘when the chips were really down’!

The truth be said is this – that there are still some offices in the Public Sector that one to this day is ‘still scared stiff’ to visit – because anything can happen to you and or your application – despite all the public appearances – and websites and Call Centres!

And you would imagine that things would naturally and undoubtedly move faster and quicker with modernity– but still end with great problems, difficulties, hardships and pains to the Poor Citizen – as if we have not seen or noticed what has happened – or learnt our lessons – and still see what is happening all around us now. Even infringing personal freedom and liberty – and basic human rights for the citizens to be served – but being denied these basic essential services even!

It took one Tunisian not happy with the Public Office reception – can you imagine – to set off The Arab Spring Uprisings and Revolts the world over – even if people try best mot to be scared and to be afraid anymore! Things need to change fast – and time is of the essence – to be as quickly and painlessly as is possible – for the common good and benefits!

May The Good Lord Direct us all to The Right Path Always – and Protect and Preserve us all – Amin Amen

With sincere and genuine apologies!

Take Care!

By Majid Al Suleimany

6 - Behind The Wheel

All My Books Icons & Press Release Reply

All My Books Icons

The Books:-

1 – Between Us Only!

2 – The Sequel – Between Us Only!

3 – Short Takes – Between Us Only!

4 – Psychology of Arab Management Thinking!

5 – A Cry For Help!

6 – Behind The Wheel!

7 – Between Us Only! – Three – The Sequel!

8 – Between Us Only! – Short Takes 2 – The Sequel!

6 to 8 are new under Final Publication.

Publisher Trafford – Press Release – August 29th 2012

**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**

EDITORS: For review copies or interview requests, contact:

Marketing Services

Tel: 1-888-232-4444

Fax: 812-961-3133

Email: promotions(at)trafford(dot)com

(When requesting a review copy, please provide a street address.)  

Majid Al Suleimany’s exciting new book is “A Cry for Help!”

“A Cry for Help!” examines the management styles of Arabian Gulf Corporation Council countries

MUSCAT, Oman – Author Majid Al Suleimany exposes the increasing extremism, fundamentalism and radicalization in management styles and employees’ receptions and reaction in his new book “A Cry for Help!”(published by Trafford Publishing) 

With over 35 years of human resource experience in Oman and with the Gulf Cooperation Council countries, Al Suleimany digs deep into the Arab office environment. Suleimany spins “a frank, honest and open book exposing the increasing lack of ethics, principles, professionalism and tolerance in the office environment.”  

“A Cry for Help!” focuses on the particular type of management that is being used in the Arab workplace while explaining the context and perspectives in the work environment. He goes on to explain what is peculiar, special, or particular to that work in the context of, and in comparison to, management styles of other nations. 

About the Author 

Majid Al Suleimany resides in Oman with his wife and four children. He has published four other books: “Psychology of Arab management!,” “The Sequel – Between Us Only!,” “Short Takes – Between Us Only!” and “Between Us Only! Book One.” He has two others in production: “Between Us Only! The Sequel Three” and “Behind the Wheel!” Al Suleimany is also a columnist for The Oman Daily Observer. He has worked in management, human resources and as a consultant for over 35 years in Oman. 

Trafford Publishing, an Author Solutions, Inc. author services imprint, was the first publisher in the world to offer an “on-demand publishing service,” and has led the independent publishing revolution since its establishment in 1995. Trafford was also one of the earliest publishers to utilize the Internet for selling books. More than 10,000 authors from over 120 countries have utilized Trafford’s experience for self publishing their books. For more information about Trafford Publishing, or to publish your book today, call 1-888-232-4444 or visit trafford.com.

A policeman fires at protesting miners outside a South African mine in Rustenburg

Dealing with Staff Issues vis-à-vis The Miners Massacre in South Africa. Reply

Dealing with Staff Issues vis-à-vis The Miners Massacre in South Africa.

We have to send condolences to those families whose members were brutally murdered by a lack of co-operation from management.

Union Leader Joseph Mathunjwa

In my book A Cry For Help! – Context and Perspectives – Arabian Management Series – the book talked about:-

1       A Cry For Help Book Theme: - 

A frank, honest, open and call-a-spade-a-spade no punch-spared, no barrels held stuff and no frills play book exposing the increasing lack of ethics, principles, professionalism and tolerance – plus increased radicalisation, extremism and fundamentalising of the Offices environment and in similar to the overall similar fast changing facts of the ground in the region. 

October 4, 2009 

2       The Book Talks About:-  

Addressing the increased extremism, fundamentalism, and lack of tolerance and forbearance in the Arab workforce, Author Majid Al Suleimany presents A Cry for Help! Arabian Management Services — Context and Perspectives. 

In three parts, A Cry for Help! concentrates on the management styles and aspects of companies located in the Arabian Gulf Cooperation Council that encompasses Oman, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. 

It discusses the: 

  • Growing radicalization of local staff
  • Misbehaving expatriates
  • Unhappy, dissatisfied staff
  • Bad treatment of Staff especially by some Expatriates – mainly Indian, European and Western Staff on Locals
  • Increasing extremism and fundamentalism in The Offices
  • Sensitive, related issues 

In A Cry for Help!, Majid Al Suleimany, A Management Expert, focuses on what is particular about the type of Arab management, its context and perspectives, and what is peculiar, special, or particular to that work in the context and comparison to management styles of other nations. Using personal experiences, examples, and illustrations, Suleimany exposes the new reality and truth and moves away from the trend and approach of hiding issues and problems.

 “It is a unique book, written in a unique style. It is a soul-searching and critical evaluation of one’s own people in the field. He extols the culture and importance of work in his religion and the pitfalls and lackluster attitude of the Managers in position about the Principles and Process of Management.” – -

3        The Book is based on: - 

The book is based on personal experiences and exposures stretching over 35 years – and 12 years as a Management and Human Resources Consultant, Advisor and Expert. 

There are bad fish (apples) in each basket – but generally even if to be labeled naïve and non-suspecting – but the people are generally decent, nice and good. 

Honestly and truthfully, I have had bad experiences with all the ex South Africans I had dealt with – even if peers – and unfortunately by default all were Whites – and left the country of South Africa to return to UK and now with British passports. 

Two were males – one female. The female was the worst bxxyytredsaerr I had ever met in my life (excuse the language!) – and do not forget that they were expatriates in our own country. The way they treated Omanis us the locals was pretty awful and nasty – to say the least! 

Yet I was a Senior peer and as a Consultant and Advisor. It was NO USE complaining to our more Senior Local Managers and The Boards even. 

I am NOT A RACIALIST – because these things did really happen – even to me! But I was not surprised to see the massacre of these protesting miners – to say the least. I watched the callousness of the Management – and how they were talking about the massacre. 

Admittedly the strike was illegal, there were union in-fights, and the miners too were very aggressive and forceful in their demands – but the end result in massacre – disproportionate – SHOULD NOT have happened in Independent Free South Africa! 

It is a bloody shame and disgrace – to say the least! 

And all the other happenings around the world – from Syria, India, Burma, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iraq, Somalia …. And so on! 

By Majid Al Suleimany

 Muscat – Sultanate of Oman

Watch also Inside Story Al Jazeera TV….very good!

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Life of Lies and Deception! By Majid Al Suleimany Reply

For Sunday August 5, 2012

My Website – www.majidall.com

Between Us Only!

Life of Lies and Deception!

  • Take care of -The needy-The disabled-Those whose hard earned income is insufficient to meet their needs-And those whose businesses have stalled -And those who have lost their jobs. [The Holy Quraan 4/36]
  • We must learn to live together as brothers or we will perish together as fools – Martin Luther King
  • Never play with the feelings of others because you may win the game but the risk is that you will surely lose the person for a life time – Shakespeare.
  • The weak can never forgive. Forgiveness is the attribute of the strong – Mahatma Gandhi
  • It is very easy to defeat someone, but it is very hard to win someone! – Dr. Abdul Kaleem

A – The Prisoners.

My late Father always used to say to us that there is neither age limit nor ending to learning things in life. Even in death – he says – when you have to lie down on your right side only – and facing The Kaaba in Mecca as Believers! That is as far as individual respectful last rites and burial are concerned – and not in mass graves as we have seen lately!

Images – Loans Taking – For Demonstration Purposes Only!

I was watching this Al Jazeera film that tells the story of some Arab and Palestinian prisoners who were detained in Israeli jails – and how they had to adapt to a new life after their release.

The Israelis dehumanify to them that sometimes they feel death is even preferable. The same people that suffered from The Holocaust!

Upon release, the prisoners faced a number of difficulties adjusting to a new life of freedom – albeit within an occupied territory. They explain their mixed feelings to the change in society – and in the political landscape – which they experienced upon being released from the day-to-day monotony of prison life.

Beyond The Walls contains beautifully-filmed interviews and novel graphics to provide a moving portrait of the interviewees and the emotions and feelings they are describing.

One of the Palestinian is seen to remark – Nothing is harsher than imprisonment. It’s the cruellest form of torture.”

Another one still says – Life in prison is free of hypocrisy…. We had nothing to lose. We were ready to face anything. Almost all of us were sentenced to life imprisonment. I felt like a stranger in the ‘outside world’ for a long time…. I felt a new life was ahead of me.

The part that really was an eye-opener to me at least was when he said - I felt like a stranger among my family and friends. It was distressing. I couldn’t sleep. I was in a constant state of anxiety. I was in better intellectual and social harmony with my fellow detainees – than with the people outside!

Images – Heavy in Debt!

A person well known to me and an ex peer tells me almost the very same things! He said to me – M, do you know that there are more crooks and hypocrites outside jail – than those really inside jail? That includes even family, relatives and friends! You for sure can trust your fellow-inmate – than the person outside! When I asked him point blank what he thought of me – he just could not stop laughing. I guess the answer is too in that laugh!

B – Being in Heavy Debts

One of the nicest advertisements that I have seen this Holy Month of Fasting is in one of The UAE Television channels that demonstrate how easy to get into (heavy) debts – and the repercussions not only on the individual – but the family members involved too. The message and theme is not to go for a lavish life style that can only spell dangers and troubles ahead – and losing of your own personal freedom and movement.

Image – Home Foreclosed!

The message and theme is good – but it looks only at one side of the story – but not addressing the lack of compassion, feeling, consideration and kindness from those ‘after their money’ – even if they cannot draw blood out from a stone!

Image – Home Lost!

When I was working in Abu Dhabi a well intentioned and well meaning citizen was remarking to me about the Tale of The Cities – when the Lender was allowed to take his ‘pound of flesh’ so long as he did not draw out any blood. The man was teasing me that if it was a local tale instead – there would be no such prohibitive and restricting measures. I tried hard to laugh along with him – though inside was all hurting and painful from real tests in life!

When it comes to money – some people – if not many of the people – are rigid, harsh, hard and cruel to their own defaulting – even if beyond their control and power – and are not in a state to pay back – even if they wished to do so! . An European CEO was telling me that with recent lump in real estate and other businesses in our parts of our world – life will not be the same ever again in all fronts business and otherwise – though pretenses, facades and empty shows still continue on the surface as ‘nothing has changed much’ now!

Sayyiduna Abu Hurayra (Allah be pleased with him) narrates that the Messenger of Allah – PBUH – had said: – Whosoever gives respite to a borrower who is in difficulty or forgives him altogether, Allah Most High will Give him refuge under the shadow of His thrown on the Day when there will be no other shadow. (Tirmidhi 1306)

Also in the Holy Quraan – If the debtor is in a difficulty, grant him time till it is easy for him to repay. But if you remit it by way of charity, that is best for you if you only knew.” (Surah al-Baqarah – verse 280)

This is one topic that I have written intensively about. Frankly and honestly, a lot of people seem to think that with the advent of Islamic Banking – but you will excuse me for being cynical and unbelieving – but with a few rare exceptions– I do not think things will change that much on the grounds! Even long serving prisoners dare tell us the very same things!

C – The Jobless.

She worked for over 30 years but now because of the economic downturn – she has lost her job. Now unemployed for the first time in her life – she is staying in a shelter home for the unemployed and the needy. She says to the Al Jazeera TV Team in her home town in California – For a person used to helping others – the most difficult part for me is to ask for help for myself!

D – The Hungry and The Starving Lots.

Over 235 million are suffering from partial starvation – one meal a day at best – if not going without – though the country (India) can produce enough food to feed all her people. The problem is in the distribution system – where wheat lies rotting in some stores – instead of feeding the poor hungry and the needy! Recent events have been there too of the Electricity distribution where over 670 million had electricity disruptions.

E – Warplanes and Tanks.

If the enemy was doing it – there would have been an uproar. But it is the country doing it to its own people. Bombs cannot distinguish between who is loyal and who is not – especially if they are living in the same town. The scared and frightened cannot ever imagine that this might is now being used against them!

What more can I say now?

May Allah God Protect and Preserve us all from His anger and fury – Amin Amen

Take Care!

By:

Majid Al Suleimany

August 3rd 2012.

a-cry-for-help-first-lady-photo[1]

The Aftermath! By Majid Al Suleimany Reply

For Wednesday August 1st 2012

My Website – http://www.majidall.com

At My Workplace (Outlook)!

The Aftermath!

After my last week article titled “Living together as one in peace and harmony!” – I had received considerable responses in my websites – including some personal Emails and Messages. Overall, there was support and allegiances in what was written. I found very encouraging some responses sympathizing and in support coming also from broad minded objective pragmatic and secular foreigners too! Oman was indicated as an example and a ‘beacon of hope’ for mankind of how people can live together as one in peace, love and harmony – and the respects and esteem given to foreigners in the country!

However, like in most cases, there were some dissenting forces and I find the following as one of the strongest. As an Administrator of my own blogs, I do accept that the names given are ‘perhaps not that real’ – but this does not bother me at all – as I look more on content than who is sending it!

One of the contributors had said – Quote – Message: I have read some of the articles. The best part I mostly enjoy is that you write from the bottom of your heart. All the information is based on your 35 years of experience and not from stories told by friends or read from books.

Your writing skills are excellent. I pray to ALLAH INSHALLAH you succeed in your dreams and that day where all positions are filled with qualified Omanis only. Your are one of the very few Omanis who disclose the pain we Omanis endure because of the expatriates – unquote.

In my book A Cry For Help! – http://www.myown-ebooks.com – see above image – I have highlighted the problems and issues being faced by especially qualified and educated young Omanis – especially when they want to join – or are accepted in ‘by a pointing barrel of a gun’ to take them in’ so to speak – excuse the melodrama! Even qualified and fully experienced Omanis for that matter too!

That is why I wrote the book – so my conscience can be clear and clean that I have done my part in saying it ‘as it is’! The rest is not upto me!

After the book was published – it was the last time that I received any job offers – even temporary and or consultancy – and any that I received after that did not last much longer – and I was a victim of my own situation and circumstances. Sadly and tragically from even fellow Omanis GMs and others – because they are susceptible to receive the advices and counsels of the ‘active foreign hands’ – so to speak!

It is a double-edged sword that cuts both ways – but the future for sure is for the young Omanis in their destiny, legacy and future – whether this is accepted or not – does not matter!

In one well known case what I thought was a friend and whom I had confided on my misgivings – was God Forgive me in this Holy Month of Fasting – perhaps instrumental after him meeting with this GM I knew well before – and as already said in my columns to leave within half an hour with the ultimatum given to continue in that place. I need money for sure – but respects and esteem more!

Though truthfully only some of the ‘bad eggs (fish)’ are only few expatriates – but the majority are also indifferent and may even be supportive on the sidelines – as they seem to think this will work for them to their advantages. Let us not forget also the die-hards old guards in Top Management – and Owners – especially family-run – but sadly can even go across to bigger and National places – that these things should not happen – or allow to happen!

In one of the places where a family member was looking for a visa for even business travel – not holidays – an Official sarcastically asked him if ‘you belong to that guy who seems to write a lot in newspapers? Actually it is only one newspaper – but people can be free to say what they want – especially when they think they are in-charge and in-control! I had a good mind to go and meet him – but then I remembered I had better things to do – than bang my head against brick walls!

I am still that much sure and convinced that a time will still yet to come and to pass when people will wish they had been more fair, professional and ethical towards me. Hopefully before I die! But after my books – and seeing all the things happening around us – when one or two send me messages like above – I believe my work has been done – and my conscience is now clear.

Even the book on Road Safety – Behind The Wheel! – with just few exceptions – took a beating. Yet we all know how bad the state of driving has become – and the increased road accidents, tragedies and fatalities – yet a noble and National worthy cause too – but still targeted and singled out for sure! Simply because if this book will be a success – people might want to read my other books – where they are most targeted!

What more I can say now?

Take Care!

By:

Majid Al Suleimany

All About Me! Reply

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Majid Al Suleimany – My Brief Profile

May 29, 2011

Majid Al Suleimany is a Senior Human Resources Professional and Management Consultant, Advisor and Expert.

An Omani National (GCC), British educated, and trained to Post Graduate levels and with over 25 (Twenty Five) years experiences and exposures in Senior positions in all aspects of Human Resources Management, HR Development, Training and Management in the largest Oman Oil Company Petroleum Development Oman – PDO – (Exploration and Production) – with 700,000 bpd and over 5000 Staff. He was directly responsible for over 900 Staff, both at National and at International levels, and with direct budget control of US Dollars 12 million p.a.

In addition, he has over 10 (Ten) years experiences and exposures in Human Resources and in Management Consultancy and being directly responsible for various New Start Ups Projects (both for Local and International Companies in Oman) in The Oil and Gas, Services, Manufacturing, Consultancy, Power Generation, Utility, Property Development and other sectors.

He has also been directly involved and responsible for various Studies, Projects and Research works – including some that had won International Awards (SIPC – Shell International Petroleum Company).

Majid lives in Muscat in The Sultanate of Oman, is married with four children (3 girls, 1 boy) and 3 grandchildren (all girls). His wife works as an Executive Secretary in Petroleum Development Oman. Family website at www.majidsuleimany.com

Majid is now semi-retired and works from home as a Management and HR Consultant – please
visit www.mas-trac.com He is a Columnist in The Oman Daily Observer (Between Us Only! – English Daily – www.betweenusonly.com ) every Sunday and the new column at My Workplace every Wednesday – also at Knowledge Oasis Oman – Community Speaks.

Majid is an Author of Five Books – Two being in Management – please visit www.myown-ebooks.com www.majidbooks.com – www.alsuleimany.com – www.majidalsuleimany.com and www.betweenusonly.com .

And this newone at www.majidsn.com

ramadhan-2[3]

Please Remember The Needy This Ramadhan! By Majid Al Suleimany Reply

For Sunday July 22nd 2012

 My Website – www.majidall.com

 Between Us Only!

 Ramadhan Kareem! 

v  O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, that you may become God-fearing – The Quran, 2:183

v   Ramadan is the month in which was sent down The Quran as a guide to Mankind, and clear (signs) for guidance and judgment (between right and wrong). So everyone who is present (at his home) during that month, should spend it in fasting – al-Baqarah 2:185

v  When the month of Ramadhan starts, the gates of the Heaven are opened and the gates of Hell are closed and the devils are chained. 

Whilst we are now in the 1433 AH Ramadhan – a few points to ponder first! How many of those we fasted together last year have left us? How many that are sick and ailing can no longer fast with us now? And a few minutes patience – especially at break up fast time – can save many more lives and injuries on the roads – especially as this month always carry the highest of statistics? And whilst we are at it – remember the lesser fortunate to us – within the country – and also outside! This is also the month of forgiveness – and getting together as one in the spirit of heart of fasting the Holy month!

I was watching this Al Jazeera Television programme showing how the economy hard-hit and the poor families in certain countries in Europe were coping in their daily lives now. Associations have sprung up to help the poor and needy by going to supermarkets and shops for them to contribute food for the noble worthy cause of feeding these groups of people. In actual fact, without these campaigns many of the families would have gone without their daily lives’ needs to feed themselves – and cope in life!

The donors contribute still good edible food and packages – some may  have dented tins or unpacked proper wraps – but the food is still edible and good. In some they are nearing expiry dates that would have ended in dustbins – instead of homes that could still use them – and with no lose in respects and esteem of taking in bad and or expired food.

In one of the countries – they even give just average and good food to cater for different tastes and categories in people. Some of the people have lost their homes – and volunteers have offered them temporary homes and shelter. It is all so moving and touching – especially when you see the children tucking in with their parents eating together as a last touch of humanity, respect and dignity!

The shops and supermarket chains that are in these noble worthy causes are advertised – so those that are well-off and can afford it all should go for shopping to supplement and support the programmes. What is all touching is to find all kinds of people helping and volunteering in these programmes – from students to professionals – and even doctors and high echelon in the corporate world – from youngsters to even themselves oldish and sick too! They are all in these together as one – in joint mind and heart.

I thought to myself that these people can teach us a lot of things for some of us unmoved and uncaring lots! Especially the rich well-off family run businesses. Though some of them still do – but not to the rate and levels that their grandparents did!

I remember a long time ago when I went to the show-room of one car agency and the man at the door gave me an envelope = thinking I was one of the poor people gathered there to collect. He was surprised when I returned it back – and told him that he got it all wrong – which he complimented that I looked all dressed up and dignified! But it was a great learning experience to me – because this old man – May Allah rest his soul in eternal peace – Amin – had his heart in the right place – in wanting to share his quick get riches with others lesser advantaged and poor.

The poor man insisted I take the envelope and give it to any poor man I knew! The money inside at that time was still significant. What touched me more was the envelope was all plain – and did not carry the company name – nor logo!

Last two years back I had gone to our poorer relatives still in Tanzania. There I opened my eyes to the artificial and hypocritical lives that we have here. It was lunch time – and there was extra food cooked in order for the others lesser-advantaged and more-poorer than them to come to eat. When I raised a voice as to why they were doing this – and when they themselves were in need – their shock, awe and disbelief was plainly visible for me to see ‘for even thinking’ like that! The part that really eats me out are the other Religions – non-Muslims – participating to help poor Muslims fast in this Holy Month!

You just have to go to the dustbins and see the food that is thrown away – and even the cats and dogs are choosy too which food – and from which house – to eat or ignore! I was always wondering why especially in the Holy Month the Baladiya trucks come in twice a day – instead of only once! And then we have homes that are looking for food – what food they can get and or afford – to break their fasts – but the real eye-opener and the most heart rendering and painful are the children that the poor things really are looking out for!

Some of us for sure can help out more than what we are doing now – not forgetting the maxim that do with the right hand – that even your left hand does not know about! I can share with you that when some of our relatives from abroad come to our homes to break the fast they are shocked to see so much food provided – especially when they see how many people are there in numbers vis-à-vis the found amount – quite high, unrepresentative and high!

Start by this. Send to your poorer or not well off neighbours, to the needy and even to the Masjids (mosques) at breakfast times. Only Allah God Knows your rewards.

I have this morbid fear that one day we will be hit hard by Allah’s anger and fury for the food wastages – and artificial and fake lives that we are living and leading – and the competition – and all the show offs that we practise and do now!

We surely can learn a lot from such others. Please think of the lesser advantaged starting around you, at the home villages – at poorer families abroad – and those in war-torn strife  areas like now in Syria, Iraq, Palestine, Somalia, Niger (drought) – and so many other Arab and Muslim countries – and even minority Muslims in other countries – and others even world-wide. Time to open our eyes to see, ears to hear – and our mouths to speak!

May Allah God Protect and Preserve us all – Amin Amen

Take Care!

By:

 Majid Al Suleimany

Please visit also www.majidalsuleimany.com and www.majidall.com

Omanisation – The Missing Ingredients! By Raya Al Kharusi. 3

Omanisation – The Missing Ingredients

– By Raya Al Kharusi – Muscat Daily – July 17th 2012. 

 

Raya Al Kharusi

 For the last twelve months I have been holding my breath every time, I came across an article or letter on Omanisation. What is Omanisation and what are the objectives? To Omanise numerically is not the target. It has to be effective and enduring.

 The missing ingredients are two. First the attitude or lack of it from the Omani recruits and second the negative reception of non-Omanis in any organization when they have an Omani in their department. The Omanis must be committed, involved and not let any hostility de-motivate them. I am not just putting words on paper – I am doing so out of the long experience I have had in the human resources field with 20 years experience in the best non-government organization in Omani, namely P.D.O. 

I was part of the think-tank tasked to draw up policies, salaries, benefits etc for Omanis and third country Regionals. The aim being to attract, retain and develop Omanis to take over from expatriates. At the same time in the late 1970’s / 1980’s we did arrange with others Gulf Oil Companies to find jobs for those expatriates who were Omanized. Despite a very attractive package to motivate expatriates to train/develop Omanis within 6 months only one expatriate qualified for the package, (this package was 26 months salary.) This says a lot of how much negativity there is in this issue. 

I also worked for a short spell in one of the major local banks in their H.R. Dept headed by a third country national. I was shocked to see how much negativity and nit-picking there was against Omani staff with spying, rudeness and all means used to de-motivate them. Even when a group of students from S.Q.U.’s College of Commerce were taken as interns- no work was given that would develop their skills. Instead final year graduates were given letters to put in envelopes, shred papers or just left hanging around. I am not saying that this is widespread but is definitely prevalent in almost all private organizations where third country nationals are worried of losing their jobs. 

On the other hand we have Omanis who have no motivation, do not attend to their jobs, have no interest in development, are not committed and who think they cannot be fired. These are the Omanis who are giving disrepute to the process, who only think of the salary at the end of the month and who have no target or aim to be developed, promoted and get satisfaction of a job well done. An example of this is absenteeism of staff in supermarkets. This has led to complaints that Omanis (by inference all Omanis) are lazy and unreliable. Far from the truth it suits the expatriates to cast Omanis as such. 

I will not even delve into the major discrepancy between salaries, benefits and perks meted out to expatriates compared to Omanis who in many cases are even more highly qualified than the expatriates. Besides huge salaries, free accommodation with utilities paid for, fully comprehensive insurance, family passages and children education all add up to an immense inequality in the packages. Additionally, with the gloomy economic outlook in the West there is a tendency amongst Western supervisors to engage in alienating Omanis either by innuendos, negative appraisals and generally be hostile especially vis a vis Omanis, especially those who show potential, in order to ensure their continued employment here in Oman, and not have to risk the uncertainty of un-employment back in their countries. 

It must be borne in mind by all concerned in the job market that expatriates are here for a certain job, for a limited period but that Omanis are the future of Oman and every help on the way to achieving their potential and doing so objectively without feeling discriminated is the best way all round. On the job coaching- relevant courses, cordial working relationship and positive attitude will go a long way to a harmonious long term relationship well after the employment period. 

Omanisation is an honorable target, achievable and well worth fighting for. Omanis: tighten your belts and honour your country by honouring yourselves. The target is well within achievable reach and worth the world to struggle for. With dedication, motivation and long term development plans Omanis will be looking forward to go to work and achieve targets instead of hating being in their work places. His Majesty, may Allah protect him, has dedicated himself to Oman. The least Omanis should and must do is dedicate themselves to achieve the vision of a better future for our future generation. 

Realistic Omanisation involves more than just salary, training and development plans. Omanis must be encouraged and given long-term plans on how and when they are expected to achieve their full potential. In this way motivation and commitment as well as goal and result-oriented Omanis will be able to achieve Omanisation.

By Raya Al Kharusi.

Raya is a Mother, GrandMother, World Affairs Spectator and Human Resources Expert, Advisor, Professional and Consultant – with over 20 years in all HR Jobs in PDO. She has a Master of Arts degree from The School of Oriental and African Studies at the University of London 1971.

Welcome to visit my Booksite at www.myown-ebooks.com on similar coverages in my Arab Management Books…

 

We Need To Be Serious! – By Majid Al Suleimany Reply

Between Us Only! 

We Need To Be Serious!

REPEAT ARTICLE FROM ONE YEAR AGO!!

Practising more of what is being preached and in reality!

 Thr difference between rhetoric and reality!

In my article last week I had said – What shocked me the most is these elements of wanting to control, dominate and subjugate in the old days methodologies – and in the old guards doctrines – from the higher levels – even to a fellow educated, qualified and experienced fellow peer Omani!

But allowing flexibility and freedom to the expatriate clans – and not your own! Like I always say – Like that General shooting at one’s own troops metaphorically speaking here!

Coincidentally, after coming from a public place – very frustrated, disgruntled and unhappy – I then I found this article I wrote for my column over a year ago! I then asked myself – if anything positive and progressive has happened? You be the judge. The article was titled – We Need To Be Serious!

The article just said – The other day I had gone to this Medical Centre in Town. As I entered the place there was this Western lady who was at the Reception Desk. She was wearing a white nurse dress – so I presume she was a real nurse acting out the duties and function as The Receptionist cum Administrator at the counter.

She was trying hard to be friendly – and you could tell it was all an act and charade – until she realized that we spoke Queens English to be more receptive! Or perhaps the place encourages only the Rich and Famous Omanis – not like us!

I was wondering to myself whether she was really doing the job as such full time – or would not surprise me being just off Eid – if there was an Omani boy or girl doing the ‘real’ job – but as usual – and not surprising again – the fear of the rain and the Wadis – or just Shuwa and Mishkaak (Meat Meals!) at the home village had decided not to turn up – like the rest of the Private Sector did!

It then dawned to me that if she (Receptionist) was really doing this job full time – then she must have come in on a Labour Clearance and Visa of a Nurse (or even Doctor – nothing is surprising anymore to me now!). And that must be a very expensive exercise for the establishment – and needed to be done anyway because she came with the ‘investment package’ from home – or through other connections, contacts and reasons.

If that was the case, for sure this job (like many others too!) could easily have been done by a local – given the right touch, encouragement, push, mentoring, guidance and coaching! But then who really cares? If you can circumvent the rules and regulations for your benefit – and the others are looking the other way – why not I ask you? Not only in that place but in so many other places too in Town! We Need To Be Serious!

But if even more senior jobs ‘reserved only for Omanis’ like Admin, PRO, Secretaries and Human Resources Managers are being done now openly by expatriates under fanciful names – why not? Incidentally and coincidentally if you go to the Professional Sites liked LinkedIn, you will see them brave enough to call themselves as just plain HR Managers – and nothing to be scared or to be afraid about!

Frankly too – and the other side of the coin – if you as a local and are not really serious about your job aspects, accountabilities and responsibilities – and give them an excuse to bring in a friend or contact from home – or is already here looking for a job or something better – whom do you blame – them or just plain you?

After all they have come here to invest with Returns (Profits) On Investments – ROI! And if the office atmosphere can be cheered the more by having home faces – or more friendlier faces – why not!

If the excuse was that she was acting because it being Thursday and the Youth insist on a five-day week as per the new regulations– the two days off could be made on shift-basis – and recruiting more Omanis for the position. This instead of wanting to give bad name to Omanis as being ‘not cooperative – even with overtime offers’ – instead of these short cuts!

The same story starts to repeat itself with the introduction of the basic minimum salaries – and what followed next! Here we go again! There is something that I must also say and repeat here for the benefits of everyone – and I hope common sense, dynamism, realism, pragmatism and vision will come in!

First and foremost – there is no more this element of fear still running or even scantily – and secondly everybody is just fed up to the tilt! The element of being afraid is now well a thing of the past!

And if you still think that the old games and gimmicks will still work in winning always – you have got it all wrong – and are just deluding no one but yourself only – and those near you! In desperation and last attempt and effort – last week I had written in the same column – Let The Strong Man Win!

Please do not tempt to scare me anymore now – because in the end we will all lose – some even sooner than the others! Perhaps I think I may need to start to think to quit now writing anymore for ever - because I always get hurt and pained in the end – and I end with a bloodied face – and swollen head banging it against brick walls!

Added  Comments – I feel sometimes like just giving up – and just let whatever is designated to come just pass – because we are still not hearing people speaking to us – and or seeing the things they are saying to us – and not even allowing them to talk to us now! When will we ever learn? Until it is too late – for everyone?

Take Care! 

By: 

Majid Al Suleimany

I am so angry and not puting in any images :( !!!

The Things of The Past – Learning To Let Go! Reply

The Things of the Past – Learning To Let Go!

By Majid Al Suleimany – June 18, 2012
■Forget about the people in your past – They didn’t make it to your future
■ We never stand taller than we stoop down to help someone who had fallen
■ Falling down is not a defeat – defeat is when you refuse to get up!
■ All from A Bouquet of Quotes.

Go placidly amidst the noise and haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence – Desiderata Card – 1692!

Normally, I write my thoughts and feelings in my columns for all to see. But lately I have come to Writers’ Block – because I see myself repeating on articles the subjects and topics that I have been writing on for the past nine years in my three columns – 2 in The Oman Daily Observer and the other one at Knowledge Oasis Muscat KOM – under The Society Speaks! All the articles are reproduced at my http://www.majidall.com and also at http://www.majidsn.com The books at http://www.myown-ebooks.com – and my controlling new website at http://www.majidalsuleimany.com

Today, I have taken a bold decision to start writing on my thoughts, views and outlooks in this website of mine – http://www.majidsn.com I will explain why.

First of all these are my most innermost sensitive thoughts and I have a feeling that they may not be published by The Oman Daily Observer – which we all know is a Governmental and newspaper of the state apparatus. And even if they may publish – I feel the subject may sound repetitive, boring and mundane if I just light touch on the subject and topic – without going into deep critical self analysis and soul searching methodologies and perspectives.

The second important point to mention here is that this week I have been going into my stored personal and ex consultancy boxes and cartons – because I am planning to make a store – and to keep only relevant and really needed stuff – and throw away the rest. You can call me a ‘hoarder’ – because I never throw away things – even if the material and stuff are no longer pertinent and relevant anymore – but just junk stuff occupying valuable space – and time, money and efforts too!

You will not believe this but I have all my personal and private correspondences since 1973 – that is over 40 years ago. That includes all stuff like my first job offer letter, staff reports, official correspondences and the like. A big chunk are my closed down MMDC Consultancy correspondences – a sort of déjà vu thing in remembrances – some happy – but many sad and heart paining still to this day.

In one of the Personal Files I find a very nasty letter from my boss’s boss – and rereading it now I can tell that it was a vicious vindictive plan to ‘get me fired’ – and the home work and the ground works were being prepared to do this.

The reason it being difficult at that time Omanis – especially if he or she has been working with you for some time – and there is no question on his performance and application to work, duties and responsibilities per se. But it is the other issues non-work related that has pissed you off – like his approaches, focuses and attitudes! Like he ‘has chips on his shoulders’ – and the other things like ‘stop his personal pride’ when dealing with bosses he thinks are below his estimation and calbre – and accept formality – even if his boss now used to be his assistant and or peer before!

Frankly, there were great disputes in these allegations – because they are all haphazard, vindictive and subjective. I have never challenged ‘formality’ except in bringing forward proactively my areas of concerns and worries – and where we are heading (into troubled waters!). I have always respected formality. Besides, who am I to challenge Allah God – because He is the One that Giveth – and Taketh.

If Allah has decided not to give me – who else will. Besides, as a human being I may be jealous and envious – but overall I consider myself as a decent, honest, sincere and genuine person – with the REAL and TRUE loyalties – because only a person who really cares and feels for you – will tell you the honest truth – however ugly and painful it can be – and you do not want to hear it too! Only dead fish go with the tide – and do not want to ‘rock the boat’ syndromes!

But it convinced me then to look for alternative employment. My British Unit B Director – Late Dudley Parkinson – Peace be upon him – was able to get me a lateral transfer to Oman LNG – but my direct Omani Director – wrote the following words – after me being accepted in a letter by Oman LNG then – I do not know anything about this. Please ignore this letter..sic!

The truth being that you do not want to progress and or promote me – but you are still blocking me to move to other arenas. How vicious and vindictive one can get in life – in treating others like this.

I do not want to repeat things that I have already said before – because it is of no use. There is still blockages of people hearing, seeing or speaking. I wished people has listened to me. But what is the use now? There is no softer pillow than a clear conscience.

My books – especially the Arab Management books – http://www.myown-ebooks.com – and the other three books – Between Us Only series – also at http://www.majidbooks.com are all testimony of the things that I have said and cautioned about.

At risk of all things – definitely my own career and progression. Even on leaving on Early Retirement – I was not spared. See my article As To Why I Left My Last Oil Company in any of my websites – Pages and or Posts – Or here – http://majidall.com/as-to-why-i-had-left-my-last-oil-company-loc/ See also this one -

We do not know how long we are going to live on in this world – but I am drawn to my article also here – http://majidall.com/?s=the+closing+chapter

It is time to finally close all the past the chapters in my life now – and remove the skeletons from my closets – because my work is now done!

Besides, I am dead tired saying it again and again – I TOLD YOU SO!!!

May Allah God Protect and Preserve us all – Amin Amen.

Take Care!

Best Wishes and Regards,

Majid Al Suleimany

Muscat – Sultanate of Oman – June 18th 2012

___________________________________

http://www.majidalsuleimany.com

http://www.majidall.com

http://www.myown-ebooks.com

It Is All About Me!

This site comes after my first booksite – http://www.majidbooks.com and http://www.myown-ebooks.com

It Is All About My Books!

It Is All About My Columns and Writings!
http://www.majidall.comwww.majidsn.comEnjoy! Happy Surfing!Best Wishes and Regards,Majid Al Suleimany – Muscat – Sultanate of Oman – June 16th 2012

Good News – on My Books! Reply

Good News – on My Books!

My Arab Management books are now in eBooks!

May 23, 2012

www.myown-ebooks.com

My Books in Arab Management are now in eBooks format! See below letter from The Publishers Trafford in USA. The book also A Cry For Help! had been converted last month to eBooks.

I believe this is an achievement for an Omani Author, Writer and Columnist to have his books in Arab Management (in English) recognised and established due to the books demand worldwide. Please note that Trafford Publishing USA had converted the books free for this Author due to many requests worldwide.

Books Images

This Psychology book is sold out in Oman bookshops. Sadly they will not order directly and want me to order the books for them! And I am just broke…!

And that is the Oman (Arab) tragedy for all openly to see! I can see similar lack of support for my next book in Road Safety book novel type – see posting here.

Will we ever change? I do not think so! If I was an expatriate and wrote about Omani Castles and or Butterflies – all of us will come forward to help – especially if it is a HER!

Allah Kareem. God Is Great. Amin. Amen.

Subject: eBook Conversion Post Fulfillment for PID_165228
To: <majidalsuleimanybooks@gmail.com>

THE EMAIL – as below: -

Dear Majid Al Suleimany,

Good day!

We are glad to inform you that your Book, Psychology of Arab Management Thinking, has been successfully converted to a new eBook file format. This new eBook version, called EPUB, is quickly becoming the new standard for the eBook industry. The new eBook file does not affect any previous eBook versions you may have for this book. Trafford has submitted the new eBook file to our partner eBook vendors to increase the overall distribution of your book. Your new eBook will appear on each vendor’s website after each company has had a chance to review and process the file. Please note we cannot guarantee your eBook will be accepted by every vendor.

We will do our best to get your book included on as many sites as possible including future partnerships we are or will be working on. If you are curious to know which eBook vendors are carrying your new eBook file, we encourage you to search online using an online search engine. The results there will show you which vendors are currently carrying your title.

Should you have questions about the conversion of your title to an eBook, please email us at ebookservice@authorsolutions.com.

Thanks,

eBook Customer Service Team

 

1663 Liberty Drive

Bloomington, IN 47403

www.trafford.com

From the Publishers Trafford in USA!

So was A Cry For Help! similarly done last month. See books images here…

 

 

The Road Safety Book – Novel Type – In Simple English. 3

April 5th 2012

 The Road Safety Book – Novel Type – In simple English.

 I am now writing my 6th book on Road Safety Stories.

 The Book Plan – To write Short Emotional Stories that have happened to people because of Road Accidents!

 The book will be a novice first time type ever written in Oman as in a reading novel type format – written in the simplest of English – as it is envisaged that many of the  Readers English is a second language (or third) after Arabic – and to make it easy for them to understand and comprehend – taking into account the importance of the subject to the increased number of road accidents and fatalities in Oman.

The New Book on Road Safety – Novel Type

 

IMAGES FOR DEMONSTRATION PURPOSES ONLY!

Writing has always been in my blood and my hobby and passion.

 Road Safety Article – 1990s

 I wrote this article for Times of Oman in May 1994 titled – Stray Thoughts on Oman Traffic – and reproduced by PDO Al Fahal Magazine June 11 1994 titled – Drive Safely for the Sake of Family and Loved Ones! – See appended below

 A         Peoples’ Stories – All True Cases.

.The story must be about road accidents and had happened in Oman mainly.

  •  To write about Road Traffic Accidents in a book format and using simple English language for all to understand and appreciate.
  •  To put catching titles per story such as :-
  •  Newly wedded died on road accident
  •  Mother is still grieving!
  • Grandmother left alone in the house!
  • Utility bill syndrome
  •  Full Family lost in the accident!
  • Bad timing to travel after midnight!
  • Wrong Job Relief causes agony!
  • Fast trip ended shortly!
  • No more singing in the rain!
  • Mother – Do Not Cry For Me!
  • You should have been firm with me Mum – now I am gone!
  • To make it interesting and true. And things that we have seen in reality happening in front of our very eyes.
  •  To give accident account, possible causes and lessons learnt.
  •  As the writer will have the full rights to lay out the story according to the flow of information
  • Ask people who have No Objections to write their own true stories with photos and blogs.
  • Include photos of as many car accidents and lessons to learn! Preferably in colour format.
  • We need to write this book in view of the high road fatalities and accidents – and starting with schools.
  • The idea can be expanded with a picturesque book for Primary Schools (Arabic also) in the future – but it will have to be in corporation with others (Arabic not that god for writing up!)

 Any others

 B         How The Idea Originated!

 It came some time back from an Omani General Manager  (and a very good personal friend!) and whose Executive Secretary and the whole family perished in a road accident two years ago!

 I knew the late girl well – see sample story appended.

 This idea was given to me also by a good Indian Fan of mine as something worthwhile to consider to do with my Writing Skills and Experiences and taking it up from the Five Books already published by me.

 See sample story here

C         Issues

 There are many issues to handle first – like people willing to talk first with you and their willing for their stories to be told? But with the right approach and tactics this can be approached in the right way for success.

 Otherwise we will not use names but create our own names, initial, nome-de-plumes and pseudonyms

 D         Summary

 The book can take off very well. I have a strong feeling on this one!

 To be published in Oman as we may ask sponsors also from others like PDO, ROP, Newspapers etc – but the lesser the better! I want to own full rights and in publishing too.

 I am looking for financial support and in monetary help and in financial more sponsorship.

 Also if you know of any stories as above to share with me and other Readers

 Or if people willing to come forward to share their own stories – as lessons for others to learn!

 Or any views or suggestions that you may possibly have.

 Let us not forget life is not permanent or forever – but we will be remembered for what we have done and contributed in this world SADAKA JARIYAH

E          My Column Writings

  • My Two Columns in The Oman Daily Observer
  • Between Us Only! – Every Sunday!
  • At My Workplace! – Every Wednesday!
  • Please see here at www.majidall.com
  • Previous at www.betweenusonly.com  and www.alsuleimany.com
  • I also write a column Society Speaks! For Oman Knowledge Oasis Muscat KOM
  •  My Books Between Us Only! Series have hundreds of stories on accidents – starting with the first book published March 2003 – more than 8 years of the columns – and books!
  • Other websites – www.majidsn.com – other issues.
  •  
  • Allah Maakuum – Allah God Be With You All Amin Amen

My Contact Emails

 majid@majidsuleimany.com

 majidalsuleimany@gmail.com

 malsuleimany@yahoo.com

 Majidsnalsuleimany@hotmail.com

 

Best Regards,

 Majid Al Suleimany

  

APPENDICES

 1          Road Safety Article – 1990s

 

2          Sample Story – Continued


2          Sample Story – Continued

 

Rest in Peace – RAW!

Peace Be Upon Her!

In Remembrance – Feeling Very Sad Today!

Wednesday February 9th 2011.

She had the most beautiful, enchanting and blossoming smile that you ever saw in such a pretty girl like RAW!

 Always cheerful and helpful – people flocked in and out of her Office just to visit and talk to her! Always a kind word and gesture to everyone – if it was the last sandwich which she had to keep for herself – she would offer it to you and she would go without!

 The old man went up the stairs to the offices as he was afraid of using the lift! He was a very angry man – he had received a wrong electricity bill that went to over a Thousand Omani Rials! His electricity was also disconnected! He had travelled all the way to The Head Office from the Interior – because he did not receive any cheers from the Branch.

He was shouting and addressing me – I had come in temporarily as The HR Consultant! How can my bill be so high? Last time I paid was less than OMR 20 (US Dollars 60)? I live with my wife and my two sons only in the small house!

 Hearing the commotions, RAW stepped out from her Office. Abuuiiy! (Father!) Please come and sit down. She brought him water and coffee. Relaxed, the old man started crying! He was ashamed of himself – for shouting so loudly to so many others – and ‘making just a nuisance’ of himself! Do not cry Father she said to him. I will call the GM out of the meeting to see you just now!

 Do not worry – she assured him – I will take care of you! And she did…. the old man got his electricity bill cancelled and the electricity returned – and a company car to take him home to his village 250 kilometers away. RAW also gave him Company Complimentary gifts – that is RAW for you – always caring and feeling for others! As a Consultant even for me – this was a great learning experience in kindness, care, feelings and in humanity – all RAW!

 

***

Wednesday February 9th 2011.

 I was calling this good friend of mine a CEO of a National Company – and he gave me the ‘shock of my life’ to tell me that his Executive Secretary – and a First Class High Profile lady in my books had died as another casualty figure (statistics) just recently – after asking him how she was and having not received any emails from her for quite a while. I had covered this poor lady in My Books as one great person who had always stood by me in offering me support, kind words and in encouragement in my books.

 I had never expected to cry again! For me I try best to hold back my tears very much. But failed miserably this time! I still fail whenever I remember her. This poor lady was amongst one of the ‘casualty figures and statistics’ that we read in the newspapers every day and week – without abating an eyelid – as the ‘usual stories’ we read in the newspapers. Or the usual pun – so what else is new?

 I also did read this article by one Omani Columnist in the other newspaper titled Killer roundabout’ rings alarm bells in Mahdah – by Fahad Al Mukrashi. Every week we see also in the newspapers about road casualty figures in the newspapers – but as usual in the coming story we never imagine or visualize that it could be someone we know well or related to.

 It seemed that an Omani family of 5 adults and 5 children had decided to get into a saloon car and drive all the way to Abu Dhabi in UAE. They decided to have lunch there and then to return on the same day. At 21:30 hrs, the father of the family perhaps overlooked   the Mahdah round about and caught by surprise – he panicked and braked sharply – and the car rolled over several times. Six members of the family died immediately but the father escaped with minor injury because he was wearing a seat belt and was awake and alone behind the wheels.

This is one girl that I really liked and admired – and was always a great fan and supporter of me. She was always encouraging and supportive – of me personally – my books and my writings. The happiest time she was when I dedicated some of her comments in my books and giving her complimentary copies.

She was always sending me nice warm supportive messages – like cheering your day or to make you smile messages. These always used to cheer me a lot – especially when I was feeling down and sad. She was always beaming with smiles and kindness. Pretty smiles full of blossom and enlightenment!

Today I am crying again of the sad news and the gap in my life now. She was a great lady and I miss her terribly!

She had a great sense of humour and tease! Once I asked her if she was interested to get married or what – or why not still. With her usual sense of humour and wit she replied – They are waiting for me to get a higher salary first before they proposed to me! My salary is still small to them!

May Allah SWT Rest her angelic kind soul in eternal peace in this world and the eternal – and open the highest heavens for her – Amin.

Inshallah I will always pray for her so long as I will live – Amin.

By Majid Al Suleimany

 

Books by Majid Al Suleimany – The Omani Author, Writer, Columnist and Publisher. Reply

Books by Majid Al Suleimany – The Omani Author, Writer, Columnist and Publisher.

A The Arab Management Books (English)

www.majidbooks.com

www.mymajidbooks.wordpress.com

Please visit my above websites for books in Arab Management issues and aspects – and as written in English.

There are few books as such written in English and published by the Arab locals themselves – and in this style and format from a personal perspective – and in deep self conscience, criticism, analysis and review.

The First Book – Psychology of Arab Management Thinking – was published in January 2009 Context and Perspectives – Arabian Management Series.

The Second Book – A Cry For Help! – published in September 2009 – Context and Perspectives – Arabian Management Series.

A Cry For Help! sort of foretold and prophesied The Arab Awakening and Uprisings – by highlighting the issues and aspects that were also revealed by The Arab Youth cries and grievances – mainly centred on jobs, their outlooks, their participation – and need for involvement – and their future – and for their destiny and legacy.

Psychology book critically reviewed shortfalls and out comings in Arab Management – and ways and means to improve and in changes required to overcome – and to be seen as successful and in winning!

The books are written from a personal perspective and context covering the Author’s over 35 years as a Management and Human Resources Professional, Expert, Advisor and Advisor in Oman and GCC.

Books published in USA by Trafford – www.trafford.com

Both books available in eBooks format

B Between Us Only! Series Books.

You will also find Between Us Only! Series books from The Oman Daily Observer Columns for the last 11 years covering interesting wide varied and relevant subjects and topics – both local, Arab, GCC and International.

Books also in English.

Between Us Only! – The Sequel – Between Us Only! – and Short Takes – Between Us Only!

Books published in USA by Trafford – www.trafford.com

The First book was published in Oman. Short Takes have emotional short stories with pictures and caricatures.

C Books Ordering

See here also on how to order the books

In Oman books are available at Family Bookshop Medinat Al Qaboos and at WHSmith (The Wave).

In UAE at Magrudys and Jashanamal – by ordering only!

Best Wishes and Regards,

Majid Al Suleimany

majid@majidsuleimany.com

malsuleimany@yahoo.com

majidalsuleimany@gmail.com

Majidsnalsuleimany@hotmail.com

PLEASE FORWARD-

Please Do Support Omani Innovation, Human Resources Development and Entrepreneurship

From My Books Publishers – Good News! www.majidbooks.com Reply

From The Publishers – www.trafford.com USA and my www.majidbooks.com

Psychology of Arab Management Thinking! Book Converted to ebook!

Now also A Cry For Help! Book – Context and Perspectives – Arabian Management Series added also!

Some more Good News!!!

The book is selling well even now in MENA and countries like in Morocco (Remember the old sent fan email? Also one from Jordan) – but more in Europe America Australia India South Africa etc… Unfortunately Royalties take years and being non USA citizen procedure is long too ….

I will try for A Cry for Help book at least – and others too – Inshallah when I have the money one day Amin… but THIS IS GOOD NEWS!!!!!!!!!!

NOW ALSO ADDED ON – THANKS TO THE PUBLISHERS FOR FREE!

From The Publishers

We Are Converting Your Book into E-Format

Dear Majid Al Suleimany,

Things Are Changing-Fast.

A few years ago, most people couldn’t imagine reading their favorite book on a handheld electronic device.

Today the market is flooded with iPods, smartphones, e-readers . . . and e-books that save shelf space, time, and money. Without taking the magic away from printed books, e-books help your work reach more people than books in print ever could. They are fast becoming a necessity in the world of publishing.

Trafford has decided to address that need in behalf of its authors. We are converting your book, Psychology of Arab Management Thinking, into an electronic format at no cost to you.

Once your book has been converted into a digital format, it will be made available through e-book retailers such as Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Google eBooks, to name a few. As proof of our unwavering support, we will NOT be charging you for this service. We believe that you and your book deserve to reach as many potential book buyers through as many channels as possible.

Trafford continues to break new frontiers for you. Join us as we go digital. E-mail ebooks@trafford.com or click here for more information.

How To Order My 8 Books! Reply

About My Books!, Announcements, Arab Management Books in English, Books Announcements, Books Release News, Breaking News, My books now in eBooks!, New Arab Management Book • Tags: , , , , , , , , , , ,

1 Psychology of Arab Management Thinking!

www.trafford.com/08-0889

http://www.amazon.com/Psychology-Arab-Management-Thinking-Arabian/dp/1425182739

B - Psychology Book

A - A Cry For Help!

D - The Sequel

4 Being The Safe Driver!

www.createspace.com/4097374

1 - Being The Safe Driver - Front

1 - Behind The Wheel Cover

India Version – Published in India

5 Short Takes – 2! – Between Us Only!

www.createspace.com/4153269

2 - BUO ST 2

6 The Sequel – 3! – Between Us Only!

www.createspace.com/4153263

D - The Sequel

7 Short Takes – Between Us Only! –

www.createspace.com

Order only through The Author – Few copies left!

majidalsuleimanybooks@gmail.com

mymajidbooks@majidalsuleimany.com

Words, once they are printed, have a life of their own. Carol Burnett

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