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Written by Dr. Asma Abdullah, Interculturalist The spirit of muhibbah has long been revered as a guiding principle of unity and harmony in our Malaysian society. However, recent challenges have highlighted fractures in intercultural relationships and understanding, calling into question the resilience of this cherished ideal. In recent times, Malaysia's diverse population, encompassing various ethnicities, religions and cultures, has faced growing tensions and divisions. Expressions of dissent, criticisms of government policies and instances of racial and religious intolerance have underscored the urgent need for concerted efforts to address these challenges. Understanding root causes The erosion of the spirit of muhibbah in Malaysia can be traced to deep-rooted Issues such as the ethnicization of social realities, conflicting narratives and historical grievances. Each ethnic group holds its perspective on Malaysian identity and development, often leading to competing narratives and perceptions. These differing viewpoints contribute to a sense of exclusion and marginalisation among certain communities, fueling resentment and discord. The failure to address these underlying Issues has allowed cultural tensions to escalate, undermining the fabric of Malaysian society. Role of ACT Amid these challenges, I would like to propose using Adverse Consequential Thinking (ACT) as a critical tool for navigating the complexities of multiculturalism to avoid the minefield of multicultural sensitivities we are not aware of. ACT involves considering the potential negative outcomes of actions before making decisions enabling  individuals, politicians and organisations to avoid exacerbating cultural tensions and conflicts inadvertently. By fostering empathy, understanding and foresight, ACT facilitates the effective management of sensitive issues related to religion, ethnicity and culture. Applying ACT In decision-making and policy formulation In policymaking public discourse and community leadership, the application of ACT can guide decisions towards promoting Inclusivity and harmony. Leaders must recognise the far-reaching implications of their actions and priorities initiatives that uphold principles of non-discrimination, equality and mutual respect. By fostering a culture of dialogue and collaboration, Malaysia can navigate its multicultural landscape with greater resilience and cohesion. Promoting cultural understanding and tolerance Education, dialogue and awareness-building initiatives play pivotal roles in promoting cultural understanding and tolerance.Emphasising intercultural knowledge, skills and attitudes enables Individuals to transcend biases and stereotypes, fostering a deeper appreciation  for the richness of  Malaysia's diverse heritage. By fostering empathy and solidarity, communities can bridge divides and forge genuine connections based on shared humanity. Building an inclusive society An Inclusive approach to development is essential in creating a society where all Individuals feel valued and empowered. Policymakers must prioritise initiatives that dismantle barriers to participation and ensure equitable access to resources and opportunities. By fostering a sense of belonging and ownership among all segments of society, Malaysia can realise its potential as a harmonious and prosperous nation. Call to action Reviving the spirit of muhibbah requires a collective commitment to lostenn. respect, tolerance and solidarity across diverse communities. Embracing ACT as a guiding principle, Malaysians can overcome cultural divides and forge a shared vision of unity and coexistence. By celebrating diversity as a source of strength rather than division, Malaysia can reclaim its position as a beacon of multicultural harmony. Conclusion In building a muhibbah Malaysia, ACT emerges as a fundamental tool in  fostering empathy, understanding and resilience. It can help us navigate ourselves out of the minefields we are not aware of among Malaysians. By prioritising Inclusivity, dialogue and mutual respect, transcend cultural divides and forge a future grounded in unity and harmony. Let us embrace the true spirit of muhibbah as a guiding light, illuminating the path towards a brighter, more inclusive future for all and moving us from tolerance to understanding, respect and acceptance of diversities.

In our journey through our working life, challenges often appear unexpectedly, disrupting our plans and testing our resolve. Whether it's a project setback, a budget constraint, or a conflict among team members, these obstacles can easily weigh us down and hinder progress. But what if we shift our perspective and see these challenges as opportunities for growth and learning? Instead of viewing problems as insurmountable hurdles, let's choose to see them as stepping stones to success. This shift in mindset not only enhances our problem-solving skills but also cultivates a culture of positivity and resilience within our teams and organisations. Embracing positivity in the face of adversity is not about putting on a facade of happiness; it's about adopting a proactive approach to problem-solving. When we approach challenges with a positive mindset, we open ourselves up to new possibilities and innovative solutions. We become more adaptable, more creative, and more willing to take risks. This is where the concept of Positive Intelligence comes into play. Positive Intelligence emphasises the importance of a positive mindset in enhancing resilience, problem-solving skills, and overall well-being. By focusing on strengths and virtues that enable individuals and communities to thrive, Positive Intellignece provides valuable insights into how we can approach challenges with a positive outlook. Team Psychological Safety also plays a crucial role in fostering a culture of positivity and innovation within teams. Team Psychological Safety is the belief that one will not be penalised or humiliated for speaking up with ideas, questions, concerns, or mistakes. It is about creating a safe space where team members feel comfortable expressing themselves and taking risks without fear of judgement or retribution. When teams embrace positivity and view challenges as opportunities, they are more likely to foster a culture of psychological safety. Team members are encouraged to share their ideas openly, knowing that their input is valued and respected. This not only leads to better problem-solving but also enhances collaboration and teamwork. Adopting a positive outlook in life and at work is not about ignoring the difficulties we face; it's about recognising them as opportunities to learn and grow. By viewing challenges through a lens of positivity and fostering psychological safety within our teams, we can create a more supportive and productive work environment for ourselves and our teams.

In a world that often feels divided, embracing positivity becomes not just a choice, but a necessity. This month, as we delve into the theme of positivity, we at Cultural Impact are thrilled to share our enriching experience at the recent SIETAR SEA Conference held in Singapore. The conference proved to be a gathering of minds, cultures, and perspectives, providing an ideal platform for organisations like ours to foster meaningful dialogues and collaborations. At Cultural Impact, our mission has always been to facilitate positive change through cultural understanding and appreciation. And at the SIETAR SEA Conference, we had the privilege to showcase one of our most powerful tools: the Cultural Impact Scan. The Cultural Impact Scan isn't just another assessment tool; it's a catalyst for positive action within organisations worldwide. By leveraging the power of cultural intelligence, this innovative tool empowers organisations to not only understand their cultural landscape but also to navigate it with sensitivity and effectiveness. The Cultural Impact Scan enables organisations to: 1. Cultural Intelligence Assessment: Through a comprehensive assessment process, organisations gain insights into their cultural strengths and areas for growth. By understanding their cultural profile, organisations can better tailor their strategies and initiatives to foster inclusivity and collaboration. 2. Customised Action Plans: Armed with valuable insights from the Cultural Impact Scan, organisations receive customised action plans designed to drive positive change. These actionable recommendations serve as a roadmap for organisations to implement meaningful interventions and initiatives that promote cultural harmony and productivity. 3. Continuous Improvement: Culture is dynamic, and so is the Cultural Impact Scan. Our tool is designed to adapt and evolve alongside organisations, ensuring that they stay ahead of the curve in an ever-changing global landscape. By embracing continuous improvement, organisations can foster a culture of learning and growth that transcends boundaries. But don't just take our word for it. Here's what one of our esteemed users had to say about their experience with the Cultural Impact Scan: “I think it is a tool that enables deep conversations, it allows people to visually see themselves and how they come across in the entire organisation. With the result, it demonstrates how flexible one has to be in order to work with others and it is a great way to identify the distances companies need to walk to allow an efficient working environment that eventually results in high team performance.” As we reflect on our experience at the SIETAR SEA Conference, we are filled with optimism and enthusiasm for the positive impact that the Cultural Impact Scan can bring to organisations around the world. In a world where diversity is not just a buzzword but a reality, embracing cultural intelligence is no longer an option—it's a necessity. And with the Cultural Impact Scan, organisations can embark on a journey of positive change that transcends borders, cultures, and differences. So, if you're ready to embark on your own transformative journey towards a more inclusive workplace, we invite you to reach out to us today. Let's work together to build a culture where diversity isn't just embraced – it's celebrated, respected, and leveraged for success. Contact us now to learn more about how Cultural Impact can support your organisation's diversity and inclusion initiatives.

Othello PJPAC and KL Shakespeare Players jointly bring you Othello, one of the four greatest tragedies by Shakespeare. For this monthly play recommendation, we recommend Othello! Presented in the Shakespeare Demystified format, condensing the typically lengthy three-hour play into a succinct 100 minutes. The play prioritises the play's iconic scenes in original Shakespearean English. Narration is delivered in contemporary English, punctuating the performance in order to provide context, character analyses and explanations of unfamiliar "Shakespearean expressions." Audiences unfamiliar with Shakespeare will grasp the play’s main plot points, major themes and relevant issues by the end of the performance. The shows by KL Shakespeare Players are very popular with educators and students at all levels of study as these productions debunk the myth that Shakespeare is inaccessible without compromising the material's integrity. What is it about? In Venice, Othello, a highly esteemed general of African descent, secretly weds Desdemona, a beautiful and virtuous Venetian. Desdemona's father, Brabantio, objects vehemently and brings Othello before the Duke. After confirming Desdemona's willing consent to the marriage, the Duke of Venice approves it. The newlyweds relocate to Cyprus, followed by Othello’s long-time flag bearer Iago, who harbours a deep hatred toward the general.Through cunning manipulation, Iago orchestrates Othello's downfall by convincing him of Desdemona's alleged affair with Lieutenant Cassio.  From initial disbelief, Othello's mind is gradually poisoned until he reaches a point of no return. Event Details: Who: KL Shakespeare Players & PJPAC Where : Nero Event Space When: 17 May 8:00 PM 18 May 8:00 PM 19 May 3:00 PM Ticket price: RM75 To purchase your tickets, click here! Produced by: KL Shakespeare Players & PJPAC Directed by: Lim Kien Lee Featuring: Lim Soon Hneg, Zul Zamir, Nurul Sofia, Sandee Chew, Lok Shi Hoong, Fred Chan & Tengku Azizan The swan song The second recommendation is The Swan Song. premiered in 1890, Russian playwright Anton Pavlovich Chekhov wrote “Swan Song” at the age of 27. Legends has it that swans sing their most beautiful melody before departing this world, turning a lifetime devoted to beauty and lakes into a final masterpiece. A radio station is conducting a series of interviews titled “Women Behind Successful Men.” In this particular episode, esteemed actress Olga delves into her love life and marriage, portraying the role of a successful writer’s woman. The host, Mickey, with a completely different personality, has feelings for a tortured writer crafting a love tale that she cannot forget. Olga’s beloved finds love in his final moments, creating his most brilliant work. Perhaps, this is the writer’s “Swan Song.” A talented actor named Young bids farewell to the theatre, returning costumes the night before permanently leaving the stage. To his surprise, he discovers a novice actor, old, secretly practising in the dressing room.  As the night unfolds, the two exchange artistic insights, reminisce about past endeavours, and explore diverse perspectives on the performing arts. The dressing room transforms into a sacred stage, with characters from renowned plays making a reappearance. Young, bidding farewell to the spotlight, embodies the essence of a consummate actor's existence, though sadly relegated to the shadows backstage, unknown to all. “How good it would be if I could die on stage, how good it would be if I could die in front of the audience”, perhaps, this is an actor’s “Swan Song”. Event Details: Who: MUKA Space & The Actors Studio Seni Teater Rakyat Where : Pentas 2 When: 26 - 28 April 2024 (Fri - Sun) @ 8.30PM 27 & 28 April 2024 (Sat & Sun) @ 3.00PM 4 & 5 May 2024 (Sat & Sun) @ 4.00PM & 8.00PM Ticket price: 128 RM Online Purchase: click here! Executive Producer: Dato’ Dr. Faridah MericanDirector & Playwright: Deric Gan Featuring: Douglas Wong, Tan Li Yang, Aki Huang, Wong San San Performed in Mandarin with English subtitles.

This month, our recommendations veer away from the traditional realms of theatre or cinema to highlight an enriching cultural experience. We are delighted to share an extraordinary exhibition hosted by Collect Art World, an esteemed international art gallery nestled in the heart of Bangsar, Kuala Lumpur. Entitled "Celebrating Diversity," this exhibition showcases the vibrant artworks of three exceptionally talented female artists: Doris Puente from Cuba, Ambika Chadha from India, and Alessia Dona from Italy. Each artist brings a unique perspective and a rich cultural background, offering viewers a kaleidoscope of artistic expression to behold. The gallery cordially invites you and your companions to an exclusive VIP viewing of this captivating exhibition. This special event marks the final week of the showcase, making it an opportune moment to immerse yourself in the beauty and depth of these artworks. Event Details: - Venue: Collect Art World, 282 Lorong Maarof, Bangsar, 59000 Kuala Lumpur - Date: 8th - 23rd March 2024 During your visit, indulge in complimentary refreshments as you wander through the gallery, exploring the intricate narratives and mesmerising visuals crafted by these talented artists. Whether you're a seasoned art enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this exhibition promises to inspire, provoke thought, and evoke emotions. To ensure an optimal experience tailored to your schedule, we encourage you to secure your preferred time slot by contacting Monika Lauridsen via WhatsApp at +60174100448. Why Attend? Diverse Perspectives: Gain insights into the cultural heritage and artistic vision of three distinct regions through the lens of female artists. Engaging Visuals: Immerse yourself in a visual feast of colours, textures, and forms, each piece offering a unique narrative waiting to be discovered. Community and Connection: Join fellow art enthusiasts and engage in meaningful conversations surrounding the themes and messages conveyed by the artworks. Don't miss this exceptional opportunity to celebrate diversity, creativity, and female artistry at Collect Art World. Mark your calendars, gather your friends, and embark on a journey of exploration and inspiration unlike any other.

In today's interconnected world, diversity in the workplace is not just a buzzword but a reality that shapes the dynamics of teams and organisations. Recognizing this, SCANIA Malaysia recently embarked on a transformative journey with our facilitation program aimed at fostering better collaboration within their top management team. Diversity goes beyond just visible differences; it encompasses varying perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences. However, harnessing the power of diversity requires more than just assembling a group of individuals from different backgrounds. It demands a culture of openness, vulnerability, and empathy – traits that SCANIA Malaysia sought to cultivate through our program. At the heart of the facilitation lies the recognition that meaningful dialogue and understanding can only flourish in an environment where individuals feel safe to express themselves authentically. This necessitates a willingness to engage in uncomfortable conversations and address sensitive topics head-on. The facilitation program provided a structured platform for SCANIA Malaysia's top management to delve into these critical conversations. Through a series of workshops, team-building exercises, and facilitated discussions, participants were encouraged to explore their own biases, assumptions, and preconceptions. One of the key pillars of the program was the cultivation of openness. Participants were urged to embrace vulnerability and share their perspectives and experiences openly, even when discussing challenging topics. This created a safe space where individuals could express themselves without fear of judgement, fostering trust and mutual respect among team members. Moreover, the program emphasised the importance of active listening and empathy. By actively listening to each other's stories and experiences, participants gained a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by their colleagues. This empathy not only strengthened interpersonal relationships but also enhanced collaboration and teamwork. Central to the facilitation was the idea of leading by example. SCANIA Malaysia's top management set the tone for the entire organisation by demonstrating their commitment to diversity and inclusion. By actively participating in the program and engaging in honest conversations, they encouraged others to do the same, creating a ripple effect throughout the organisation. As a result, SCANIA Malaysia's top management team emerged stronger and more cohesive than ever before. They developed a deeper appreciation for each other's perspectives and experiences, paving the way for more effective collaboration and decision-making. In reflecting on the program, let's hear the feedback experienced by SCANIA Malaysia's top management team. “Today's session with Cultural Impact has been truly transformative. We came in without any expectations, but we are leaving feeling immensely grateful and empowered. The space provided allowed us to open up conversations that we often shy away from, and I am thankful for the opportunity to share and talk about sensitive topics in a safe environment. Through this session, we’ve learned to be more culturally sensitive and conscious, and I now feel equipped to navigate diverse groups. The team assessment results were eye-opening for some of us, as we realised that even ourselves didn't fully recognize our own style until now. This session has helped us to not only identify each of our strengths but also understand how to work with others' styles effectively. We are amazed at how we were able to break barriers and establish team cohesiveness in such a short time. Today's session was a resounding success and SCANIA is excited to apply what we've learned and continue our journey forward as a more united and inclusive team.” -SCANIA Malaysia However, the journey towards embracing diversity is ongoing. SCANIA Malaysia recognizes that it is not enough to simply attend a few workshops – true cultural transformation requires continuous effort and commitment. Moving forward, they are committed to embedding the principles of openness, vulnerability, and empathy into the fabric of their organisational culture, ensuring that diversity remains a cornerstone of their success. In conclusion, this program serves as a shining example of how organisations can embrace diversity and foster better collaboration within their teams. By creating a culture of openness and vulnerability, SCANIA Malaysia has laid the foundation for a more inclusive and innovative workplace where every voice is valued and heard. So, if you're ready to embark on your own transformative journey towards a more inclusive workplace, we invite you to reach out to us today. Let's work together to build a culture where diversity isn't just embraced – it's celebrated, respected, and leveraged for success. Contact us now to learn more about how Cultural Impact can support your organisation's diversity and inclusion initiatives.

Source: Dr. Asma Abdullah, Interculturalist My introduction to Al Hunafa started in 2000 when one of my non Muslim friends wanted to learn about Islam. We started to attend classes in the evenings for a couple of months until he was transferred to another country on a work assignment. As the evening classes were no longer convenient for me for both safety and security reasons, I decided to attend the Sunday class by Ustaz Kabuye. Since then I have  been attending his classes on Fiqh and Akidah and have even introduced a few of my good friends (Samsiah, Fatimah, Norma, Masitah, Halim, Aisha, and Hamidah) who are now regulars to Kabuye’s  classes. I now consider myself as very fortunate to benefit all these years from Prof Kabuye’s classes as I am able to absorb the true meanings of the concepts he shares with us in our Fiqh and Tawhid classes.  My religious classes during my school days were only confined to reading the Quran and learning how to pray. There were no teachers in my secondary school and university days who were knowledgeable and familiar with the teachings from the Holy Quran. While we were taught to read the Arabic script most of my religious teachers did not have a deep knowledge of what we were reading and did not translate the true meaning of the text and their applications for our daily lives. Most of us grew up not knowing what the verses really meant for us. So, it was an awakening for me to realise that the Quran is a source of guidance but it needs to be interpreted by a scholar who is well versed in terms of language and meaning. As a human resource development specialist I often received invitations to give talks and conduct workshops on a number of topics by various organizations and civil society groups. Often in preparing to deliver the talks I would refer to materials by famous scholars and writers from the West who were often quoted by my peers in their presentations. But there were local and foreign presenters who were able to make references to the various verses in the Quran and Hadith. If they can do it, I see no reason why I should not be able to do the same. So,  in 2009 when I was invited by a group of Malaysians to talk on Peace, Unity and Diversity I decided to search for the relevant verses to enhance my presentation. It was because of my exposure to Al Hunafa and the team of lecturers that I now have begun to refer to the verses in the Holy Quran.  I was amazed at what I discovered from the Holy Quran on the topics and it was obvious that for so long I have ignored using it as a source of reference. Certainly this was another awakening for me as I was able to locate the appropriate verses from the Quran and Hadith from Islamic scholars to strengthen my presentation. This article will focus on what I managed to obtain from the Quran on the three concepts of Diversity, Peace and Unity and share them with my audience. I will also stress on the implications of the three concepts for our Malaysian context. Diversity Islam teaches us that diversity is a fact of life. God has created this whole universe with diversity. There is diversity among human beings as there is variety in gender, color, language and multiplicity of races and tribes. This diversity is considered natural and are indicative of God’s creative power and wisdom and are good and healthy since they endow human life with richness and beauty. [Surah Ar Rom (30) : 20-22] 20: And of His signs is that He created you from dust; then, suddenly you were human beings dispersing [throughout the earth]. 21: And of His signs is that He created for you from yourselves mates that you may find tranquillity in them; and He placed between you affection and mercy. Indeed in that are signs for a people who give thought. 22: And of His signs is the creation of the heavens and the earth and the diversity of your languages and your colours. Indeed in that are signs for those of knowledge. Unity The second concept of Unity lays great emphasis upon mutual understanding, love and development of brotherhood among fellow Muslim brothers.  In the eyes of Allah Almighty all Muslims are equal and no superiority is given to anyone on the basis of colour, caste and creed. [Surah Al An Am  (6):19] Ask (them, Prophet), “of all the things (in the Universe), what is most important as evidence?” Tell them, “it is God. For God is between you and me (as a witness to the fact that) this Quran has revealed to me so that with (the wisdom of) it I may warn you and anyone to whom it reaches (against polytheism and breaking His Laws). Could you really testify that there are other gods besides God?” Tell (them), “I will never testify (so).” Say, “He is the One and only God. And I have nothing to do with whatever you may associate with him. Peace The third concept of Peace is found  in the "root" of the word "Islam" which  in Arabic is SALAMA. It is the origin of the words Peace and/or a submission to God and peace to all humanity.  It is, thus, no wonder why the salutation in Islam is: "Al-Salaamu ‘Alaikum or Peace on You." The Islamic relationship between individuals and nations is one of peace. War is a contingency that becomes necessary at certain times and under certain conditions. Muslims learn from the Qur'an that God's objective in creating the human race in different communities was that they should relate to each other peacefully [Surah Al Hujraat (49):13]. While war is repeated 36 times in the Qur’an,  Peace is repeated 67 times in various meanings. The word Peace in Islam appears in several surah in the Quran.  As stated in [Surah Yunus 10:25] Implications for Multicultural Malaysia Malaysia is a minefield of  multicultural cultural sensitivities. We do not know where the minefields are until we step on them and the outcome can be alarming. In our attempt to navigate ourselves to avoid stepping on these hidden targets of potential conflicts, barriers and animosities,  each of us have to take steps to build awareness, have knowledge and understanding and acquire appropriate skills of living in a diverse society. I believe we can start by doing three things: Share the definitions of the three concepts of Diversity, Unity and Peace as found in the Quran with our family members, network of friends from different ethnic and religious groups and members of the public. Appreciate similarities and respect differences through open conversations and dialogues on how each ethnic group view the three concepts from their religious perspectives based on their affiliations – as Christians, Buddhists, Hindus and others.  These different viewpoints and perspectives have to be shared in a friendly and informed manner. Model behaviours based on the norms and values of a Muslim ummah who are able to work together with others and excel like it used to be in the case of  Spain during the medieval ages. We were told that the Christians, Jews and Muslims were able to work together in the arts, sciences, architecture, music, astronomy and medicine and this collaboration took them to new heights. Diversity is projected by the Qur’ân as a sign of God and hence to be respected. Different identities are for recognition and hence necessary and it should not lead to any conflict.  Thus the Qur’ân clearly accepts the legitimacy of diversity. The need to examine the three concepts and share perspectives can be the starting point for Malaysians to accept other traditions and faiths as reflected in the Sufi philosophy that “ religions are like beads in a rosary, separate yet bound by the same thread”. The Quran is a source that we need to use more often to extract its wisdom and strengthen our understanding on contemporary concepts such as Diversity, Unity and Peace. The more we use the verses from the Quran, the more we can begin to offer an added perspective especially among non-Muslims who are more likely to refer to Western based texts and scholarship. My challenge is to be able to locate the appropriate verses in the Quran to expand my understanding of concepts in our everyday life and share them with others we are in contact with. That is my awakening --- as I can now begin to use verses from the Quran to strengthen my delivery on worldly topics. Alhamdullillah.

In a world that thrives on diversity, openness is the key to unlocking new possibilities and fostering growth. Whether it's in our personal lives or within the framework of a team, being open to different cultures, approaches, and perspectives can lead to profound transformations. At Cultural Impact, we embrace the power of openness, not only to different cultures and approaches but also to feedback, change, and new ideas. At the heart of openness lies the willingness to grow and learn. This is especially crucial when we talk about Team Psychological Safety (TPS). TPS emphasises the importance of creating an environment where team members feel safe to take risks, be vulnerable, and express their thoughts and ideas without fear of judgement or reprisal. However, cultivating this openness is not always easy. It requires effort, practice, and a willingness to step out of your comfort zone. By actively seeking out new experiences, engaging with diverse perspectives, and challenging our own assumptions, we can expand our capacity for openness and deepen our understanding of the world around us. Exchange Theatre, our immersive approach to addressing critical issues, exemplifies the transformative power of openness. During a recent Petronas show, a manager expressed concern about sending female colleagues to the Middle East due to perceived danger. However, his female colleagues responded with, "Thank you for your concern, but why don’t you ask us first?" This simple act of opening the conversation opened his mind to new possibilities and challenged his assumptions. To truly hear different views, it's essential to approach conversations with openness and compassion. By providing a framework, such as the one offered by Team Psychological Safety, we can create a space where people feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and ideas without fear of judgement. This framework gives us the vocabulary and structure to navigate difficult conversations and foster a culture of openness and inclusivity. In the end, being open is not just about receiving; it's also about sharing. By opening up our minds and hearts to others, we create a space where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to be their authentic selves. So, let's open up to new possibilities, new experiences, and new ways of thinking. Together, we can create a world that is richer, more vibrant, and more inclusive for all.

Are you ready to delve into the complexities of contemporary life? Get ready for an enlightening and thought-provoking experience as 'Wirasa Enam Cherita' takes the stage from February 23rd to 25th, 2024, at 8:30 pm at Acahart Studio Kuala Lumpur. 'Wirasa Enam Cherita' offers a captivating exploration of societal issues that resonate with our lives today. From religion and mental health to relationships, polygamy, family dynamics, and human rights, this production presents a collection of six plays that aim to entertain, stimulate thought, and spark meaningful conversations. Each play serves as a platform for reflection and discussion, inviting audiences to engage with the complexities of contemporary life. Written by Fattah Fawzy and Anna Natasha, these short stories have been carefully curated and presented in a theatre performance that promises to captivate and inspire. What makes 'Wirasa Enam Cherita' truly exceptional is the recognition it has garnered through its participation in esteemed competitions such as Pertandingan Teater Pendek Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP), Short and Sweet Malaysia (KLPAC), Pesta Teater Runcit (ASWARA), and more. Four out of the six scripts have received acclaim, showcasing the depth and quality of the production. Featuring a talented team of six theater directors and fifteen astonishing casts, each play brings to life unique themes and characters, offering a diverse range of storytelling experiences. Whether you're passionate about social issues or simply seeking an engaging night out, 'Wirasa Enam Cherita' promises to deliver an unforgettable theatrical experience. Tickets for this extraordinary production start from RM48, offering exceptional value for an evening filled with entertainment, enlightenment, and inspiration. Don't miss your chance to be part of this cultural phenomenon. Book your tickets now and join us for an unforgettable journey into the heart of contemporary society. Experience the power of storytelling and the magic of theatre with 'Wirasa Exam Cherita.' See you at Acahart Studio Kuala Lumpur from February 23rd to 25th, 2024, at 8:30 pm. For more info, click here.

In today's dynamic business environment, fostering a culture of growth and excellence is essential for organisations to thrive. At Prudential Malaysia, this commitment to nurturing talent and fostering a culture of excellence is deeply ingrained in the company's PruWay values. Recently, Prudential Malaysia took a significant step forward in bringing these values to life by organising a program for its top 50 managers, aimed at enhancing leadership skills and promoting a culture of nurture within the organisation. The program focused on empowering managers to embody PruWay values in their everyday leadership practices. Through an interactive session and with the help of our PACE model, managers were equipped with the tools and strategies to nurture their teams, drive performance, and create a psychologically safe space for their employees to thrive. One of the key insights gained from the program was the crucial role of leadership in fostering a culture of nurture within teams. Managers learned that their leadership style directly impacts the level of engagement, motivation, and performance of their team members. By creating an environment of trust, support, and open communication, managers can nurture their teams to reach their full potential and achieve exceptional results. However, the journey towards fostering a culture of nurture is not without its challenges. Many managers faced frustrations within their teams, reflecting underlying issues related to leadership style and team dynamics. Some teams struggled with communication breakdowns, lack of trust, or resistance to change, all of which were reflective of the team leader's leadership approach. As leaders, it is our responsibility to recognize and address these challenges head-on. By adopting a coaching mindset, actively listening to our team members' concerns, and providing constructive feedback, we can create a psychologically safe space where employees feel empowered to voice their ideas, share their concerns, and collaborate effectively. This is where Prudential Malaysia seeks the support of Cultural Impact. With our expertise in fostering cultural transformation and nurturing talent, Cultural Impact has helped Prudential Malaysia to embed PruWay values to their senior leadership level. Through this session, Prudential Malaysia was able to cultivate a culture of nurture that empowers employees to excel, fosters collaboration and innovation, and ultimately drives business success. By investing in the development of its leaders and fostering a culture of excellence, Prudential Malaysia is committed to nurturing talent, driving performance, and delivering exceptional value to its customers and stakeholders. Hence, the journey towards fostering a culture of nurture is a continuous one, requiring commitment, dedication, and active engagement from leaders at all levels of the organisation. By embracing PruWay values and collaborating with Cultural Impact, Prudential Malaysia is poised to lead the way in creating a workplace where employees feel valued, empowered, and inspired to achieve their full potential. Together, we can nurture a culture of excellence that drives success and transforms lives. Interested to start fostering change in your organisation? Join us in this journey of growth and transformation and contact us here for more info on how we can help your team.