DOWN MEMORY LANE: KURMA FARM AT MADINAH

Kurma Farm at Madinah during Umrah in 2012

Kurma Farm at Madinah during Umrah in 2015

Kurma Farm at Madinah during Hajj in 2017

Visiting a Kurma (Date) Farm in Madinah is a highlight for many travelers, offering a peaceful break from the city and a chance to taste the world’s most famous dates right at the source.

Here are the most popular farms and experiences you should know about:

1. Popular Farms to Visit

• Aliat Al-Madinah (Al-Alia Farms): Located just a few kilometers south of the Prophet's Mosque, these historical farms are highly significant. This area is mentioned in Islamic history and produces some of the finest Ajwa dates. It’s a great spot for walking through dense palm groves and learning about traditional irrigation.
• Kebun Kurma Abu Faisal: A very popular "tourist-friendly" farm. While it has fewer trees compared to industrial farms, it features a massive market. It is famous for its hospitality—you can sample almost every variety of date, chocolate-covered nut, and "date milk" before buying.
• Al Marbad Farm: Often included in cultural and history tours, this farm offers a more curated experience where guides explain the cultivation process from pollination to harvest.

2. The Experience

• Sampling: Most farms allow you to try different varieties for free. Don’t miss the Ajwa (the "Prophet’s Date"), Safawi, and Sukkari (the "Sugar Date").
• Dining: Many farms have small cafes or stalls. Interestingly, some farms in the area (like Abu Faisal) are known for serving Indonesian Bakso or local tea, catering to the large number of international pilgrims.
• Harvest Season: If you visit between July and September, you might witness the actual harvesting of the fruit.

3. Famous Madinah Dates

When you're at the farm, look for these specific varieties:

• Ajwa: Small, dark, and matte. It’s the most prized date in Madinah for its health benefits and spiritual significance.
• Safawi: Dark brown and chewy, often compared to Ajwa but more affordable.
• Mabroom: Longer and slender with a firmer, fibrous texture.
• Sukkari: Golden and extremely sweet; these are often eaten "fresh" (Rotab) or dried.

Tips for Visiting:

• Transport: Most farms are a 10–15 minute drive from the Haram. You can take a taxi/Uber or join a "Ziyarah" (tour) bus that usually stops at a farm after visiting Masjid Quba or Mount Uhud.
• Pricing: While prices at farms are generally fair, always check the city’s Central Date Market (Souq Al Tumour) if you are looking to buy in very large quantities (kilograms for export).
• Samples: Feel free to ask to taste! It’s part of the culture. Just remember that "fresh" dates (Rotab) usually need refrigeration, so if you're traveling home, stick to the dried varieties.

References:

1. The Haramayn Guide: Types of Dates & Their Benefits.
2. Evendo.com: Discover the Wonders of Ajwa Farm - A unique Tourist Attraction in Madinah
3. Wanderlog : Kebun Kurma Abu Faisal

Hj Zulheimy Maamor

Lembah Keramat, K.L

20 April 2026: 10.42 a.m

DOWN MEMORY LANE: MASJID QUBA, MADINAH

Masjid Quba during Umrah in 2015

Masjid Quba during Hajj in 2017

Masjid Quba is the first mosque ever built in Islamic history. Established by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in the 7th century immediately following his migration (Hijrah) from Makkah to Madinah, its foundation was laid on the very first day of his arrival.

Religious & Historical Significance

• The Reward of Umrah: The Prophet (PBUH) stated that whoever purifies themselves at home (performs wudu) and then offers two rakahs (units) of prayer in Masjid Quba will receive a reward equivalent to performing an Umrah.
• Prophetic Tradition: It was the Sunnah (practice) of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) to visit this mosque every Saturday, either walking or riding, to pray there.
• Qur'anic Mention: The mosque is widely believed to be the one referred to in the Qur'an (9:108) as being "founded on righteousness from the first day".

Features & Architecture

The modern structure is a masterpiece of white marble and classic Islamic design.

• Originally established in the quarter of Bani Amr bin Awf, Quba Mosque has been carefully preserved and expanded across centuries. 
• Current Capacity: The mosque currently accommodates approximately 20,000 worshippers.
• Design: It features four minarets and a large central courtyard. The roof is adorned with 54 domes of various sizes, with the largest one positioned over the mihrab area.
• Amenities: Recent upgrades as of 2025/2026 include over 100 new water fountains, modernized restrooms, and large automated umbrellas in the courtyard to provide shade for pilgrims.

The King Salman Expansion Project

Under Saudi Vision 2030, the mosque is undergoing its largest expansion in history.

• Goal: The project aims to increase the mosque's area to 50,000 square meters—roughly 10 times its previous size—allowing it to hold up to 66,000 worshippers.
• Preservation: The expansion includes the restoration of 57 historical sites in the surrounding area, including ancient wells, farms, and orchards connected to the life of the Prophet.

Visitor Information

• Location: Situated in the Quba district, about 3 to 5 kilometers south of the Prophet's Mosque (Masjid al-Nabawi).
• Best Time to Visit: It is exceptionally busy on Saturday mornings due to the Prophetic tradition, but it remains a primary destination for pilgrims throughout the week.
• New Addition: A new museum titled "Alsirah" (Prophetic Biography) is now located in the square in front of the mosque (admission is 20 riyals).

References:

1. MITT Hijrah: Kenali Masjid Quba - Masjid yang dibina dengan tangan Rasulullah
2. Visit Saudi: Quba Mosque
3. Hijah ZHajj Numrah : Top 20 Historical Mosques in Madinah
4. Wikipedia : List of mosques in Saudi Arabia

Hj Zulheimy Maamor

Lembah Keramat, K.L

20 April 2026: 10.22 a.m

DOWN MEMORY LANE: MADINAH & MASJID NABAWI

Madinah in 2015 during Umrah

Bazaar in Madinah in 2012 and 2015 during Umrah

Mosque at Madinah in 2017 (during Hajj)

MADINAH AL MUNAWWARRAH

Madinah (officially Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah, the "Enlightened City") is the second holiest city in Islam and was the first capital of the Islamic state. Historically known as Yathrib, it became the "City of the Prophet" after Muhammad's migration (Hijrah) from Mecca in 622 CE.

Masjid Nabawi in 2015 (Umrah)

Masjid Nabawi during Hajj in 2017

THE PROPHET MOSQUE

Masjid Nabawi (the Prophet' Mosque) in Madinah, Saudi Arabia, the second holliest site in Islam and one of the largest mosques in the world. Originally built by the Prophet Muhammad s.a.w. himself in 622 C.E after his migration from Mekkah, it has served as a religious, social and political heart for the Muslim community for over 1,400 years.

Key Sacred Area of the Mosque

1. The Green Dome: iconic landmark, marks the resting place of Prophet Muhammad s.a.w. He is buried there alongside his closest companions and first two caliphs of Islam, Saidina Abu Bakar as-Siddiq and Saidina Umar Al-Khattab. 
2. Rawdah al-Jannah: located between the Prophet's tomb and his pulpit (mimbar), according to Hadith, it is a "garden from the gardens of Paradise."
3. The Mimbar: the pulpit from which the Prophet delivered his sermons. 

Over centuries the mosque has expanded from a simple-air-structure to a massive architectural marvel that can now host over one million worshippers.

The Modern Features and Capacity:

1. 250 Rectractable Umbrellas: giant automated umbrellas shade the courtyard from the intense heat. 
2. Sliding Domes: it features 27 sliding domes that open to allow natural light and ventilation. 
3. Advanced Infrastructure: the first place in the Arabian Peninsula to receive electricity and now features sophisticated cooling and water. 

Spiritual Significance

• Multiplied Rewards: Praying a single prayer in Masjid Nabawi is believed to carry the reward of 1,000 prayers in any other mosque, except for Masjid al-Haram in Mecca.
• Always Open: The mosque is generally open 24/7 for visitors and worshippers regardless of the time or season.

THE PROPHET'S GRAVE

Wikipedia : Green Dome

The Prophet’s Grave (also known as the Sacred Chamber or al-Hujra al-Nabawiyya) is located in the southeastern section of Masjid Nabawi in Madinah. It marks the final resting place of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), along with his two closest companions and the first two caliphs, Abu Bakr as-Siddiq and Umar ibn al-Khattab.

The grave is situated exactly where the Prophet (PBUH) passed away, in the house of his wife Aisyah R.A. 

The iconic Green Dome (al-Qubbah al-Khadra) was built directly above the chamber.

Makam Rasulullah in 2015 (Umrah)

Makam Rasulullah during Hajj in 2017

JANNAT AL BAQI

Jannat Al Baqi or the Garden of Baqi is the oldest and first Islamic cemetery in Medina, located immediately to the southeast of Masjid Nabawi. Established by Prophet Muhammad in 622 CE, it serves as the final resting place for approximately 10,000 companions (Sahaba), members of the Prophet’s family (Ahl al-Bayt), and his wives.

Jannat Al Baqi during Umrah in 2015

Jannat Al Baqi in 2017 (during Hajj)

SOKAIFAT BANI SAEDAH

Sokaifat Bani Saedah (also known as Saqifah Bani Sa'idah) is a historic site in Madinah located just a short walk northwest of Masjid Nabawi. It is most famous for being the place where the companions of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) gathered immediately after his passing to discuss and decide on the future leadership of the Muslim community.

This site is where the companions, including both the Ansar (the local helpers of Madinah) and the Muhajirun (the migrants from Mekkah), held their first political dialogue after the Prophet's death. It was at this location that Saidina Abu Bakar as-Siddiq was chosen and received the initial pledge of allegiance to become the first Caliph of Islam. 

PROPHET MARKET

The Prophet's Market (historically known as Souq al-Manakhah or Souq al-Nabi) was the first Islamic marketplace established by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in Madinah. After the Hijrah, he personally designated this area to create a fair, tax-free economic system that broke the monopolies of existing markets.

Madinah is served by the Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport located off Highway 340. 

Airport at Madinah in 2015 (Umrah)

Hj Zulheimy Maamor

Lembah Keramat, K.L

19 April 2026: 10.47 p.m

 

DOWN MEMORY LANE : AL BADAR, MADINAH

Al Badr (or Badr) is a historic town and governorate located roughly 150 km southwest of Madinah, Saudi Arabia. It is most famous as the site of the Battle of Badr (624 CE), the first major military victory in Islamic history. 

Key Historical Significance

• The Battle of Badr: On the 17th of Ramadan in the 2nd year of Hijrah, a force of roughly 313 Muslims led by the Prophet Muhammad defeated a much larger Quraysh army of about 1,000.
• Qur'anic Mention: It is the only battle explicitly mentioned by name in the Qur'an.
• Divine Intervention: Islamic tradition holds that God sent an "army of angels" to assist the Muslims during the battle at what is now known as Jabal Malaikah (Mountain of the Angels). 

Major Landmarks to Visit

If you are traveling from Madinah, the journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours by road. Key sites include: 

• Battlefield of Badr: The actual site where the conflict took place, located near the town center.
• Cemetery of the Martyrs: An enclosed area containing the graves of the 14 companions who were martyred during the battle. A marble monument lists their names.
• Masjid Al-Arish: A mosque built on the spot where the Prophet's leadership tent (shelter) was located during the battle.
• Jabal Malaikah: The "Mountain of the Angels," visible from the Badr mosque.
• Al-Adwa Al-Dunya & Al-Adwa Al-Aqsa: The "nearer" and "farther" ridges mentioned in the Qur'an where the two armies were stationed. 

Jabal Malaikah

Visiting Information

• Location: Southwest of Madinah along the road to Yanbu.
• Badr Historical Path: A recently launched tourism project under Saudi Vision 2030 that revitalizes the 157-km trail between Madinah and Badr with interactive maps and educational stops.
• Accessibility: The battlefield itself is often fenced off but can be viewed from the perimeter. No tickets are required for entry to the general historic sites. 

Hj Zulheimy Maamor

Lembah Keramat,K.L

19 April 2026: 7.10 p.m

DOWN MEMORY LANE: JABAL UHUD, MADINAH

Jabal Uhud or Mount Uhud, located approximately 5 km north of the Prophet's Mosque (Masjid Nabawi) in Madinah, Saudi Arabia.It's name "Uhud" is derived from the Arabic word for "one" or "unified", refering to its isolation as it is not connected to other mountain ranges in the area. 

Umrah 2012

UMRAH 2015

HAJJ (2017)

Historical and Spiritual Importance

• The Battle of Uhud: On March 19, 625 CE (3rd Hijri year), the mountain witnessed the second major conflict between the Muslims of Madinah and the Meccan Quraysh.
• The Prophet's Love: Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) expressed a deep spiritual connection to the mountain, famously stating that Uhud is a mountain that loves the believers and is loved by them.
• Martyrs of Uhud: The site is the final resting place for 70 companions who died during the battle, including the Prophet's uncle, Hamza ibn Abdul-Muttalib.

Key Visiting Sites

• Archers' Hill (Jabal al-Rumat): A small rocky hill where the Prophet (ﷺ) positioned archers during the battle. Visitors often climb this hill to overlook the historical battlefield.
• The Cemetery of Martyrs: A walled area containing the graves of the companions who fell during the Battle of Uhud.
• Sayyid al-Shuhada Mosque: A large modern mosque located near the cemetery, built to accommodate the many pilgrims who visit the site for Ziyarat (visitation).

THE JABAL RUMAT (BUKIT PEMANAH)

The Jabal Rumat (Mount of the Archers) also known as Jabal Aynayn, a small volcanic hill located in the uhud district of Madinah, approximately 3 km north of the Prophet's Mosque.

Prophet Muhammad s.a.w stationed 50 archers on this under the command Abdullah bin Jubair. They were strictly ordered to protect the Muslim army's rear and not to leave their positions, regardless of whether the Muslims were winning or losing.

After an initial victory, many archers mistakenly believed the battle was over and descended the hill to collect spoils of war, leaving only about ten men behind. This allowed the Meccan cavalry, led by Khalid bin al-Walid, to flank the Muslim army from the rear, leading to a significant loss and the martyrdom of 70 companions.

The Cemetery of Martyrs (Maqbarah al-Shuhada) at Uhud is a sacred enclosure in Madinah where approximately 70 companions of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) are buried. They were martyred during the Battle of Uhud in 625 CE (3rd Hijri) while defending the early Muslim community.

The cemetery is the final resting place for several prominent figures in Islamic history: 

• Hamza ibn Abdul-Muttalib: The paternal uncle of the Prophet (ﷺ), known as Sayyid al-Shuhada (the Chief of Martyrs) and the "Lion of Allah".
• Mus'ab ibn Umair: The first ambassador of Islam and the flag-bearer during the battle.
• Abdullah ibn Jahsh: A cousin of the Prophet (ﷺ) and a dedicated warrior.
• Hanzala ibn Abi Amer: Known as Ghaseel al-Mala'ikah (the one washed by the angels) because he was martyred while in a state of major ritual impurity.

Official travel and historical context for visitors can be found on Visit Madinah and Visit Saudi. 

References:

1. Visit Saudi: Uhud Battle Site
2. Visit Madinah : Uhud Martyrs Square
3. Malaysia Gazette : Bukit Istimewa Madinah 'Jabal Uhud'

Hj Zulheimy Maamor

Lembah Keramat, K.L

19 April 2026: 6.38 p.m

DOWN MEMORY LANE: JEDDAH, SAUDI ARABIA

Jeddah in Saudi Arabia often called the "Bride of the Red Sea", the second-largest city in Saudi Arabia and its principal commercial hub. Located in the western coast, is serves as the primary gateway for millions of pilgrims traveling to the holy city of Mecca and Medina. Jeddah's roots trace back to ancient times when it served as a crucial port for traders and pilgrims.

Key Highlights & Landmarks

• Al-Balad (Historic Jeddah): This UNESCO World Heritage site is the city's old heart, famous for its 7th-century roots and traditional coral-stone houses with intricate wooden balconies called rawashin.
• King Fahd’s Fountain: The tallest water fountain in the world, shooting saltwater up to 312 metres into the air.
• The Corniche: A 30km waterfront promenade featuring public art, parks, restaurants, and the Jeddah Corniche Circuit, the fastest street circuit in Formula 1.
• Al-Rahma Mosque: Often called the Floating Mosque or Masjid al-Sayyidah Fatimah, it is built on stilts over the Red Sea and appears to float during high tide. It was built in 1985. 
• Jeddah Tower: Currently under construction and expected to be the world's tallest building (over 1km high) once completed. As for April 2026, the Jeddah Tower has officially surpassed the 100th-floor mark, reaching a height of approximately 402 meters. 

Ar-Rahmah Mosque

Jeddah Tower

THE RED SEA

Wikipedia: The Red Sea Destination

A vital global waterway and a centerpiece of Saudia Arabia'a future tourism. Strategically separating Africa and Asia, it is home of one of the world's most resilient and diverse marine ecosystems. 

The red Sea is the world's fourth-largest barrier reef system, hosts over 1,200 fish species and 300 types of coral. 

JEDDAH AIRPORT

King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) is the primary gateway to Saudi Arabia's western region and the main entry point for pilgrims traveling to the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah. Located 19 km north of Jeddah, it is the busiest airport in the Kingdom.

The Hajj Terminal is an architectural landmark famous for its tent-like fiberglass roof, can accommodate up to 80,000 pilgrims at once and operates seasonally for Hajj and Umrah traffic. 

Airport in Jeddah during 2012 (Umrah) and 2017 (Hajj)

Upon arrival at Jeddah on 2017 (during Hajj)

Jeddah Airport - Awaiting Flight to Malaysia after Hajj 2017.

Jeddah most commonly translates from Arabic as "Grandmother" (Jaddah), according to local folk belief and tradition, the city is the burial place of Eve, considered the "grandmother of Humanity". The Tomb of Eve was a well-known archaelogical site in the city's historic district before being sealed in the 20th century. 

The tomb of Eve in 1894.

References:

1. Wikipedia - Jeddah
2. Memphis tours : 10 Fascinating Facts About Jeddah
3. Visit Saudi: About Jeddah

Hj Zulheimy Maamor

Lembah Keramat, K.L

19 April 2026: 3.09 p.m

BANGSA MELAYU TAK ADA BAHASA SENDIRI?

Oleh: Helmi Effency II

The Patriots

Ini ialah antara propaganda yang dipercayai oleh geng-geng Chola. Mereka percaya dengan penuh takzim bahawa kita orang Melayu takde bahasa, takde tulisan, takde agama, takde tamadun. Sebab itu mereka sentiasa pandang rendah pada kita. Mereka sentiasa percaya nenek moyang merekalah yang memberikan tamadun kepada kita melalui Rajendra Chola yang pernah menyerang Kedah.

Jadi, seperti biasa, memang tugas saya menjawab para racist ini semua. Betul ke kita langsung takde bahasa sendiri? Kepercayaan Chola ini datang daripada betapa bahasa kita memiliki banyak kosa kata pinjaman daripada bahasa lain. Mereka ada satu kepercayaan cacat lagi cela bahawa sebuah bahasa tak boleh meminjam dari bahasa lain.

Padahal, bahasa Tamil itu sendiri memiliki banyak kosa kata pinjaman daripada bahasa lain. Padahal bahasa Tamil juga seperti bahasa lain juga memiliki pinjaman kosa kata seperti சர்க்கார் (sarkar) daripada Parsi yang membawa makna kerajaan atau pentadbiran, கஜானா (khazana) daripada Parsi/Arab yang merujuk khazanah atau perbendaharaan, ஜன்னல் (jannal) daripada Portugis janela bermaksud tingkap.

Bahasa Melayu tak terkecuali. Malah bahasa Melayu harus memiliki kosa kata pinjaman yang banyak sebagai bukti betapa antarabangsanya tamadun kami, yang membina pelabuhan-pelabuhan agung di laluan paling antarabangsa di dunia, SELAT MELAKA. Adalah terlalu bangsatlah kami bangsa Melayu kalau dah duduk laluan antarabangsa pun tidak memiliki serapan kosa kata dalam bahasa lain.

Tetapi sesungguhnya walaupun demikian, bahasa Melayu tidaklah tidak memiliki perkataan asal. Cuba tengok perkataan seperti aku, engkau, dia, kita, kamu. Ini bukan pinjaman Arab, Sanskrit, Tamil, atau Inggeris. Ini kata teras dalam bahasa Melayu. Begitu juga dengan kata tubuh seperti mata, telinga, hidung, mulut, tangan, kaki, rambut, perut, dada. Semua ini ialah kata asas yang hidup dalam percakapan Melayu sejak lama. Kalau sebuah bahasa kononnya “tak ada bahasa sendiri”, mustahil ia ada set kata teras begini.

Pada alam pula, kita ada perkataan seperti air, api, angin, tanah, laut, langit, hujan, panas, sejuk, siang, malam, bintang, bulan. Ini inti pengalaman manusia. Dan bahasa Melayu ada semua itu dalam bentuknya sendiri. Pada kehidupan keluarga pula ada emak, ibu, ayah, bapa, anak, adik, kakak, abang, suami, isteri. Pada perbuatan asas pula ada makan, minum, tidur, duduk, bangun, jalan, lari, jatuh, naik, turun, pegang, lihat, dengar, cakap. Ini semua bukan pinjaman mewah dari bahasa luar. Ini rangka hidup sesuatu bahasa.

Lebih penting, bahasa Melayu bukan sekadar ada perkataan asal, tetapi ada cara membina perkataan yang sangat kuat. Daripada kata asli seperti ajar, lahir belajar, pelajar, mengajar, pengajar, pengajaran. Daripada jalan, lahir berjalan, menjalani, perjalanan. Daripada lihat, lahir melihat, terlihat, penglihatan. Ini menunjukkan bahasa Melayu ada mesin tatabahasa sendiri, bukan sekadar tong sampah pinjaman.

Jadi hujah yang tepat ialah ini bahasa Melayu memang ada ribuan kata pinjaman, tetapi tulang belakangnya tetap kata asli Melayu. Pinjaman biasanya banyak pada agama, pentadbiran, ilmu, perdagangan, dan teknologi. Tetapi pada lapisan paling asas kehidupan manusia, bahasa Melayu berdiri dengan kaki sendiri.

Kalau ada orang kata bahasa Melayu “tak wujud”,” dia sebenarnya bukan sekadar menyerang Melayu. Dia sedang meruntuhkan seluruh asas bagaimana ahli linguistik memahami keluarga bahasa Austronesia.

Bahasa Melayu bukan muncul dalam vakum. Ia berada dalam rumpun Austronesia, iaitu salah satu keluarga bahasa terbesar di dunia, yang merangkumi bahasa-bahasa dari Madagascar sampai ke Pulau Paskah, dari Taiwan sampai ke Nusantara dan Pasifik. Dalam keluarga ini ada Melayu, Jawa, Sunda, Aceh, Minangkabau, Bugis, Tagalog, Ilocano, Maori, Hawaiian, Malagasy dan ratusan lagi. Semua bahasa ini diiktiraf sebagai bahasa serumpun kerana mereka berkongsi asal usul sejarah, corak bunyi, struktur tatabahasa, dan set kata warisan yang boleh dijejak secara perbandingan.

Maknanya mudah. Bahasa Melayu bukan berdiri sendirian. Ia sebahagian daripada satu pohon besar. Kalau seseorang tiba-tiba kata bahasa Melayu tak wujud hanya kerana ada pinjaman atau kerana dia tak faham sejarah perkembangannya, maka logik yang sama boleh dipakai pada bahasa Austronesia lain juga. Tagalog ada pinjaman Sanskrit, Sepanyol, Inggeris. Jawa ada pinjaman Sanskrit, Arab, Belanda. Malagasy ada pengaruh Bantu dan Arab. Hawaiian dan Maori juga berubah mengikut sejarah masing-masing. Jadi apa, semua itu pun tak wujud?

Kalau begitu, runtuhlah seluruh konsep keluarga Austronesia.

---

Salah satu cara mendidik rakyat Malaysia tentang tamadun dunia dan Melayu, saya dan team saya di The Patriots Studios telah menyiapkan sebuah poster garis tamadun dunia. Bantu saya dan ti, saya dengan membuat pembelian di laman web The Patriots: https://shorturl.at/D48xA

C&P

17 April 2026: 9.15 p.m

MAJALAH GILA-GILA: MALAYSIAN SATIRE ICON

The image you shared is the cover of Majalah Gila-Gila First Issue No. 1, dated April 1, 1978. This magazine is arguably the most significant cultural touchstone in the history of Malaysian comics and satire.

A National Icon: The Origins

First published on April 1, 1978 (though some sources cite the early 70s as the conceptual start), Gila-Gila was founded by Creative Enterprise Sdn Bhd. The creative force behind it included legendary names like Jaafar Taib, Zainal Buang Hussein, Azman Yusof, and Mishar. When it first launched in 1978, it was sold for just $1.00 (Malaysian Ringgit). 

Inspired by the American MAD Magazine, its title—which literally translates to "Crazy-Crazy"—reflected its mission: to use sharp, witty satire to lampoon Malaysian social norms, politics, and daily life.

Why It Matters

Gila-Gila wasn't just a comic; it was a "National Satire Magazine" that captured the Malaysian identity in a way no other medium could.

• Cultural Diversity: It was known for its "Rojak" language, blending Malay with English, Chinese, and Tamil dialects, reflecting the true multi-ethnic fabric of Malaysia.
• The "3M" Philosophy: Cartoonist Rejabhad (the Penghulu or Chief of Malaysian Cartoons) championed the idea of Menghibur, Mengajar, Menyedarkan (to Entertain, to Educate, and to Awaken awareness).
• The Golden Age: At its peak in the 1980s, the magazine had a circulation of over 200,000 copies per issue. It became a rite of passage for every Malaysian household.

Notable Contributors & Characters

The magazine served as a launchpad for the country's most famous cartoonists:

• Rejabhad: Known for Perwira Mat Gila.
• Jaafar Taib: Famous for Jungle Jokes and the iconic Kalau segment. He created "Nasib Si Bedul" on the first issue. 
• Ujang (Ibrahim Anon): Created the beloved Usop Sontorian, which later became a popular TV animation.
• Imuda: The multitalented actor/artist who contributed Tiga Segi Empat Segi.
• Azman Yusof: Created the "Jungle Jerry" on the first issue. A parody of Tarzan, Jungle Jerry was a city boy living in the Malaysian jungle. 
• Zainonal Abidin Ismail @ Nan: created the "Professor Serba Tahu", a "know-it-all" academic character with a large head and glasses who would explain complex topics or current events with ridiculous, satirical logic. 
• A.Mahmud: creator of "From Taiping with Love", capture the muhibbah spirit of small-town Malaysia through charming, relatable scenarios. 

Legacy in the Digital Age

While the printed magazine faced challenges with the rise of the internet, it achieved "legendary" status and was officially recognized as the longest-running cartoon magazine in Asia. In 2019, the brand pivoted to the digital era with the GG Komiks app, allowing new generations to browse over 40 years of archives.

C&P

14 April 2026: 1.25 p.m

MALAYSIAN D.I.Y RETAIL HISTORY

The image that I shared is a significant piece of Malaysian retail history: it shows the very first MR.DIY store, which opened in July 2005 on Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman, Kuala Lumpur.

The history of the "Do-It-Yourself" (DIY) and home improvement industry in Malaysia is a story of transformation from fragmented, traditional hardware shops into a massive, organized retail sector.

1. The Traditional Era (Pre-2005)

Before the mid-2000s, the "DIY" concept in Malaysia was largely served by local, independent hardware stores (known as kedai hardware).

• The Experience: Customers typically had to visit multiple specialized shops for different needs—one for paint, another for plumbing, and another for lighting.
• The Pain Point: Pricing was often inconsistent, and stores were often cluttered and difficult to navigate for the average homeowner.

2. The Birth of a Giant (2005)

In 2005, Tan Yu Yeh, a physics major with an engineering background, noticed that Malaysians lacked a "one-stop shop" for home improvement.

• First Store: He opened the store seen in my photo in KL. Unlike traditional hardware shops, MR.DIY focused on a massive variety of items (hardware, household, stationery, and toys) at fixed, low prices.
• Early Growth: The model was an instant hit. By the end of its first year, the company had already expanded to three branches.

3. Modernization and Mall Culture (2008–2014)

The industry shifted significantly as DIY retailers moved from standalone "shophouses" into shopping malls.

• The "Mini-Anchor" Strategy: In 2008, MR.DIY opened its first mall-based store in an AEON mall. This allowed people to shop for home tools while doing their grocery or family shopping.
• Competition: During this period, international players like ACE Hardware (from the US) and IKEA (which opened its iconic Mutiara Damansara store in 2003) helped popularize the idea that home improvement could be a lifestyle hobby, not just a chore for contractors.

4. Expansion and Diversification (2015–Present)

By the mid-2010s, the DIY market in Malaysia became one of the fastest-growing retail segments in Southeast Asia.

Digital Transformation: Leading retailers launched e-commerce platforms (MR.DIY in 2017) to cater to a younger, tech-savvy generation.

Niche Branding: The industry diversified further with sub-brands like MR. DOLLAR (fixed-price shops) and MR. TOY, and the introduction of "premium" DIY experiences like MR.DIY PLUS.

Public Listing: In October 2020, MR.DIY Group (M) Berhad listed on Bursa Malaysia, becoming one of the largest retail IPOs in the country's history.

Key Milestones in Malaysian DIY History

Year Milestone

2003     : IKEA opens in Mutiara Damansara, popularizing flat-pack DIY furniture.

2005     : First MR.DIY store opens in Kuala Lumpur (Jalan TAR).

2008     : MR.DIY enters shopping malls, beginning the "one-stop" trend.

2014     : MR.DIY reaches its 100th store and expands to East Malaysia.

2017     : Launched e-commerce operations

2018     : Large-scale e-commerce adoption by home improvement brands.

2019     : Diversified with MR.TOY and MR.DOLLAR brands.

2022     : Launched it first outlet in Mid Valley Megamall

2023     : MR.DIY hits the 1,000-store mark in Malaysia.

Today    : Operates over 1,400 stores across 10 countries. 

Today, the industry is valued at over RM 4.7 billion ($1 billion USD), driven by high urbanization rates and a growing "middle class" that prefers managing their own home repairs and upgrades.

References:

1. Mr.DIY.com: About Us
2. mrdiy2u.com: 10 Facts about Mr.D.I.Y

C&P

14 April 2026: 12.42 p.m