12 Smart Rules for Daily Living
A practical framework for a more focused and fulfilling day. These 12 rules are simple guides to navigate modern life with purpose and clarity. Source: Little DIY
Read More 
Lai Cheng
Doctor of the Poor
Some people chase wealth their whole lives — he chased humanity. In the Egyptian city of Tanta, Dr Mohamed Mashally, known as “The Doctor of the Poor,” dedicated over 50 years to treating those who couldn’t pay. While others raised their fees, he lowered his — and often charged nothing at all. He saw 30-50 patients a day, sometimes working 12-hour shifts into his 70s. He gave free...
Read More 
Feeling Down? LISTEN TO BIRDSONG
Feeling anxious or depressed? Under stress and bugged by negative thoughts? Listen to birdsong. Studies show that birds’ melodic songs is a salve for the soul. To get this benefit, it’s best to spend time in nature. Nature is therapeutic in many ways. Getting outdoors keeps your body active. Spending time in the forest lowers your stress, heart rate, and blood pressure. Gazing at vivid...
Read More 
ASEAN Civil Society Urges Transparency and Public Engagement in Digital Economy Framework Agreement Talks
Kuala Lumpur/ Jakarta / Manila / Bangkok: 23 October 2025 — Ahead of the 2025 ASEAN Summit, a coalition of civil society organizations from across ASEAN is calling for greater transparency and meaningful public engagement in the ongoing negotiations of the Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA), a major regional trade agreement that aims to establish binding and enforceable digital rules...
Read More 
Expedite Regulatory Action to Eliminate Lead in Paints
The World Health Organization (WHO) has recognized 19 – 25 October 2025, as the International Lead Poisoning Prevention Week (ILPPW) to raise awareness and promote actions to address the health impacts of lead exposure, especially on children, pregnant women, and workers. The ILPPW theme this year, “No safe level: Act now to end lead exposure” is a reminder of the unacceptable risks of...
Read More 
From Waste to Wear
SCHOOL UNIFORMS MADE FROM BANANA FIBRE Some schools in Vietnam are now using school uniforms made from banana fibre, a biodegradable fabric derived from discarded stalks. The material is breathable, moisture-wicking, and durable, keeping students cool in classrooms without air conditioning. This makes it an ideal alternative to synthetic materials like polyester, which can trap heat and take...
Read More 
Why Australia is Banning Social Media for Kids Under 16
From December 10, young teenagers in Australia will be banned, under new legislation, from social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and TikTok – one of the toughest online crackdowns in the democratic world. The law, passed by parliament in 2024, aims to protect children from toxic elements of social media such as bullying, grooming and sexual extortion, as well as youth suicides...
Read More 
Pearls of Wisdom
ANT PHILOSOPHY Ants never quit. Block their path – they’ll climb over. Flood it – they’ll swim. Cover it – they’ll dig. They don’t stop. They don’t complain. They just find another way. While the world rests, they prepare. Ants think winter all summer. While the sun is warm, they prepare for the cold ahead. They never mistake comfort for security. When the world freezes, they...
Read More 
CAP: Abstain from alcoholic drinks
The Consumers’ Association of Penang (CAP) calls on consumers to abstain from alcoholic drinks. Abstaining from alcohol is a powerful choice for an individual’s health, family wellbeing, and social responsibility. According to Professor Timothy Naimi, Director of the Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research, Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, his research has revealed...
Read More 
Firecracker Sales in Little India Pose Serious Fire Risk
The Consumers Association of Penang (CAP) is deeply concerned about the sale of firecrackers in the overcrowded Little India area during the festive season. The area is packed with stalls and canopies, leaving little space and creating a serious fire hazard. Many of these stalls are not properly equipped; they lack fire extinguishers, safe storage, and basic safety measures. A single spark in...
Read More