Marwan M. Alias’ Post

"The Art of Negotiation: How to Improvise Agreement in a Chaotic World" by Michael Wheeler Overview: This book offers a dynamic approach to negotiation, focusing on the importance of flexibility and adaptability. Wheeler, a professor at Harvard Business School, emphasizes that negotiation isn't a linear process but rather a fluid one that requires improvisation, especially in unpredictable and complex situations.  Key Takeaways:    - Negotiation is not just about preparation; it involves real-time decision-making and adaptation.    - Effective negotiators understand the importance of reading the situation and adjusting their strategies accordingly.    - It incorporates techniques from improvisational theater and jazz music to illustrate the fluid nature of negotiations. https://lnkd.in/gSgrzeMF

The Unfinished Struggle As we approach 31 August, Malaysia's Independence Day, I'm reminded of the powerful words of Tun Dr. Mahathir bin Mohamad (Tun M) in "Perjuangan Yang Belum Selesai." Our journey towards independence was monumental, but the fight to uphold and elevate our nation's dignity continues. Our History, Our Strength: Our ancestors were not just settlers; they were explorers, traders, scholars, and warriors. They navigated the seas, expanded empires, and contributed to the world with courage and wisdom. Yet, we must ask ourselves: have we truly honored their legacy? Beyond Independence: Achieving independence was only the beginning. The real challenge lies in filling this freedom with progress, unity, and pride. We must not settle for mediocrity or allow our people to be overlooked and forgotten in their own land. Call to Action: Our task is far from over. It is not enough to remember our past; we must actively shape our future. This means fostering resilience, embracing innovation, and nurturing the spirit of excellence. Only then can we ensure that our nation stands tall and respected. Moving Forward Together: Let’s honor those who came before us by pushing forward with determination. The journey may be long and arduous, but it is through unwavering perseverance that we will build a thriving and dignified future for all. As we celebrate our independence, let’s commit to this unfinished struggle—not just for ourselves, but for the generations to come. https://lnkd.in/gxMck8UG #Merdeka #NationBuilding

.. or you could leverage on AI.

The meme hit below the belt! Too often, sustainability teams are just one or two people trying to save the world. But let’s be real—climate change and environmental impact require more than a tiny team. It’s time to scale up our efforts and make sustainability a core part of every business strategy. Let's get serious about it! 🌍💪 #Sustainability #TeamGrowth #CorporateResponsibility

⛔ Consume this content at your own risk ⛔ https://lnkd.in/gYNBP8H8

I make it a point to respect my team's personal time and encourage them to do the same. While occasional after-hours work messages during weekdays might be necessary, contacting staff on weekends is something I strictly avoid. Respecting employees' time and personal space is crucial for maintaining morale and overall well-being. On weekdays, staff generally have only the hours between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m. for themselves and their families, not to mention the 2-4 hours spent commuting to-from work. Weekends are even more precious, offering two full days to recharge and focus on personal matters. Additionally, people managers who are unwilling to allow flexible work arrangements where possible, such as working from home, may inadvertently diminish employee morale, leading to increased absenteeism through emergency leave or medical certificates. Creating a work environment that values employees' time off is essential for fostering a positive and productive workplace.

Monday morning FiRE quotes

How to Review Financial Documents to Ensure Shariah Compliance? In Islamic finance, ensuring Shariah compliance in documents is crucial. It aligns financial practices with Islamic principles, maintaining the integrity of operations. This guide outlines a structured approach for reviewing documents. 1. Foundations of Shariah Compliance (Knowing the Applicable Policies) Shariah compliance is based on Islamic law, which prohibits riba (usury), gharar (uncertainty), and haram (forbidden) activities. The Maqasid al-Shariah (objectives) aim to preserve religion, life, intellect, lineage, and wealth. 2. Preliminary Assessment (Hypothesis) Begin with a preliminary assessment by identifying the transaction type and its relevance to Shariah. Determine if the document pertains to products like ijarah (leasing), murabahah (cost-plus financing), or wakalah (agency), focusing on potential Shariah issues like interest clauses or speculative terms. 3. Detailed Shariah Screening (Hands-on Procedures/Operation) Conduct a detailed screening to identify any clauses that may violate Shariah principles: - Riba: Ensure no interest-based payments. - Gharar: Avoid excessive uncertainty, especially in contracts related to sales or insurance. - Haram: Verify that the business activity is not prohibited in Islam. - Ensure no transgression to the purpose of the contract, i.e. no guarantee of profits in equity contracts & etcetera. - Word search (ctrl+F): Filter words that are conventionally used for interest based lending, e.g.: loan, interest, drawdown, borrow, repay and et-cetera. 4. Applying Shariah Standards (Cross-checking with Regulatory Compliance) Apply established Shariah standards and resolutions, like those from the Shariah Advisory Council (SAC) of Bank Negara Malaysia. Ensure contracts, such as murabahah, are structured correctly with clearly defined profit margins and asset sales. 5. Shariah Compliance Tools: Hajah and Darurah (Applying Exemptions Where Necessary) In situations of hardship or necessity, invoke Hajah (need) and Darurah (necessity). These allow temporary deviations from standard Shariah principles if justified, ensuring the integrity of the process. 6. Shariah Committee Approval (Submission for Approval) The final step is obtaining approval from the Shariah committee or its delegated/mandated authority (i.e., Heads of Shariah div or Chief Shariah Officers) which reviews and certifies compliance. Document their decisions, including any required amendments. 7. Ongoing Monitoring (Shariah Review & Shariah Audit) Shariah compliance requires continuous monitoring. Regular audits and prompt incorporation of new standards ensure sustained alignment with Islamic law. Conclusion Ensuring Shariah compliance in documents is vital for the integrity of Islamic finance. A structured methodology, from understanding Shariah principles to ongoing monitoring, ensures alignment with Islamic law and builds trust in Islamic financial products.

Most of my team members have stayed with us for 3-6 years, with a few leaving after under 3 years. We usually part ways on good terms, which is a testament to the relationships we've built. In life's crossroads, we all have bridges to cross, and it’s best to do so without burning them. These bridges often become invaluable intertwined networks of the future. As the old hiking adage goes, "Take nothing but memories, leave nothing but footprints." Let’s focus on leaving positive marks and carrying forward the good.