Global Pulse

分类： society

  • ‘Wanted to know why Muslims do this’: UAE expat tries fasting in Ramadan for first time

    ‘Wanted to know why Muslims do this’: UAE expat tries fasting in Ramadan for first time

    In an inspiring display of cultural curiosity, Junior Gomes, a Brazilian expatriate residing in the United Arab Emirates, has embarked on his first Ramadan fasting experience to better understand Islamic traditions. The Director of Operations at Little Legends sports academy, who was raised in South Africa, decided to personally experience the month-long spiritual practice after observing his fasting students.

    Gomes, who previously relied exclusively on takeout and restaurant meals, has undergone a remarkable culinary transformation during Ramadan. With guidance from friends, he now prepares balanced home-cooked meals including spring rolls and other nutritious dishes—a significant departure from his previous lifestyle. ‘I never cooked in my life before this,’ Gomes admitted, expressing pride in his newly acquired kitchen skills.

    The daily Ramadan routine involves pre-dawn awakenings at 4:00 AM for suhoor meals carefully designed with proteins, carbohydrates, and sufficient fluids. Despite maintaining his rigorous gym schedule and managing multiple responsibilities at the children’s sports academy, Gomes reports the experience has been less challenging than anticipated. He particularly notes the psychological difficulty of the final hours before sunset when thirst and hunger intensify, followed by heightened appreciation for nourishment after breaking the fast.

    Beyond physical adaptation, Gomes has discovered deeper philosophical insights. ‘The whole self-control thing is quite important,’ he reflects. ‘You actually learn to appreciate things more. During the day, be a better person. Have some self-control. Be grateful. Give back.’

    In a surprising familial coincidence, Gomes discovered his brother in Brazil had independently decided to fast alongside his Muslim wife, creating an unplanned bond of shared experience across continents. This unexpected connection has added another layer of meaning to his cultural exploration, demonstrating how Ramadan traditions can bridge geographical and cultural divides.

  • Tokyo Skytree elevator traps 20 people for over 5 hours, all rescued

    Tokyo Skytree elevator traps 20 people for over 5 hours, all rescued

    A harrowing incident unfolded at Tokyo’s iconic Skytree tower on Sunday evening when an elevator carrying twenty passengers malfunctioned and became stranded approximately 30 meters above ground level. The emergency situation began at approximately 8:30 PM local time and persisted for over five hours before all occupants were successfully evacuated without physical injury.

    According to reports from Japan’s national public broadcasting organization NHK, the technical failure affected two of the four elevators servicing the 350-meter observation deck. While one elevator cabin remained unoccupied, the other contained a diverse group of visitors including children, all of whom found themselves suspended mid-air as the mechanism ceased functioning without warning.

    Tokyo Fire Department rescue personnel executed a complex technical operation to secure the trapped individuals. Using an adjacent elevator that had been carefully maneuvered to match the exact height of the stranded cabin, emergency crews established a secure transfer pathway between the two structures. The meticulous rescue concluded at approximately 2:00 AM Monday morning when the final passenger was safely extracted from the immobilized elevator.

    Law enforcement authorities confirmed that none of the evacuated individuals required medical attention or reported adverse health effects following the prolonged confinement. A comprehensive investigation has been initiated to determine the precise mechanical or electrical factors that precipitated the elevator failure at one of Japan’s most visited tourist destinations.

    The Tokyo Skytree, recognized globally as the world’s tallest broadcasting tower at 634 meters, annually attracts millions of domestic and international visitors. The incident has prompted renewed scrutiny of safety protocols and maintenance procedures for high-rise elevator systems in major tourist attractions.

  • NSW prosecutor agrees to review dropped case into Cheryl Grimmer’s disappearance

    NSW prosecutor agrees to review dropped case into Cheryl Grimmer’s disappearance

    New South Wales’ top prosecutor has initiated a formal review into the controversial discontinuation of a murder case concerning the 1970 disappearance of three-year-old Cheryl Grimmer. Director of Public Prosecutions Sally Dowling SC confirmed the review in a February 16 correspondence with the Grimmer family, acknowledging their persistent quest for justice spanning over five decades.

    The case dates to January 12, 1970, when Cheryl vanished from outside shower facilities at Fairy Meadow Beach in Wollongong, south of Sydney. Despite multiple police investigations and a 2011 coronial inquest concluding the toddler was likely deceased, the case remained unresolved until 2017 when an individual, pseudonymously referred to as Mercury, faced murder charges.

    Prosecutors subsequently dropped the case in 2019 when the NSW Supreme Court deemed Mercury’s 1971 confession inadmissible. Critical to this ruling was the absence of a parent, adult, or legal representative during the teenage suspect’s police interview—a procedural failure that ultimately undermined the judicial process.

    The upcoming review will operate under the ODPP’s Victim Right of Review policy, which enables victims to request reassessment when prosecutors discontinue proceedings. However, the ODPP emphasized that the evaluation will be constrained to evidence available during the original decision-making process, as the office lacks independent investigative authority. Director Dowling has consequently inquired whether the Grimmer family possesses new information that NSW Police might examine prior to the review.

    Rick Nash, Cheryl’s brother who witnessed the abduction as a child, described the development as the most promising news in years. He emphasized that Mercury was interviewed at a boys’ shelter surrounded by carers, questioning whether this environment constituted appropriate support. Nash called for inter-agency collaboration, transparency, and the removal of institutional barriers that have historically impeded justice.

    Last year, NSW MLC Jeremy Buckingham utilized parliamentary privilege to identify Mercury publicly, recounting detailed confession excerpts from the 1971 police interview. Despite this revelation, media outlets have refrained from publishing the individual’s identity due to legal protections afforded by his juvenile status at the time of the incident.

  • Robin Robin: Trial begins for man accused of stabbing two, killing one at Ormond house party

    Robin Robin: Trial begins for man accused of stabbing two, killing one at Ormond house party

    A Supreme Court jury in Victoria has been presented with disturbing details of a violent altercation that resulted in one death and a second victim with serious injuries. The case centers on Robin Robin, 29, who stands accused of murdering 22-year-old Navjeet Singh and attempting to murder 30-year-old Shawan Singh during a confrontation in the Melbourne suburb of Ormond on May 5, 2024.

    During opening statements, Crown prosecutor Nadia Kaddeche outlined the sequence of events that began as a domestic dispute between housemates. The court heard that Robin and his younger brother Abhijeet had hosted a party at their rental property, during which they allegedly became enraged after Shawan Singh left to play cards at Navjeet Singh’s residence in Noble Park.

    The prosecution asserted that the brothers engaged in repeated abusive phone calls throughout the evening before Robin allegedly demanded Shawan return to collect his belongings shortly after 11pm. When Shawan arrived with Navjeet and several companions, Robin allegedly confronted him with a kitchen knife while shouting threats in Hindi.

    According to the prosecution’s account, Robin allegedly stabbed Shawan in the chest and shoulder before turning the weapon on Navjeet when he attempted to intervene. Tragically, Navjeet Singh sustained fatal chest wounds during the attack.

    The jury was shown brief but critical evidence including three seconds of phone footage from a resident and less than a minute of dashcam footage from a passing Uber driver. Ms. Kaddeche claimed this footage depicts Robin attacking Navjeet while he was on the ground, with Abhijeet allegedly participating by striking with the back of his hand.

    Following the incident, the brothers reportedly traveled to New South Wales, where they were apprehended by police on May 7. The prosecution revealed that during his arrest, Robin allegedly made a startling declaration to officers: ‘I want to tell you I’m guilty. I’m the guilty one, my brother is innocent, he did nothing.’

    Despite this alleged confession, Robin has entered a plea of not guilty to all charges. The court also heard alternative charges of intentionally causing serious injury and recklessly causing serious injury specifically related to the wounds inflicted on Shawan Singh.

    The trial continues with further opening remarks from the prosecution followed by an address from Robin’s defense barrister, John Desmond.

  • The 102-year-old kitman who left his mark on the World Cup

    The 102-year-old kitman who left his mark on the World Cup

    At 102 years young, Charlie O’Leary stands as a living monument to Irish football history. The Dubliner, who recently celebrated his birthday in February, possesses a legacy that intertwines with the very fabric of the sport across both the Republic and Northern Ireland. His remarkable journey from local innovator to international football figure is now being immortalized in “The Charlie O’Leary Story – From Johnny Cullen’s Hill to the Olympic Stadium Rome,” set to premiere at the Dublin International Film Festival.

    O’Leary’s most enduring contribution remains the revolutionary “street leagues” he established in Dublin’s East Wall neighborhood in 1945. Recognizing the lack of organized football opportunities for teenagers, O’Leary proposed utilizing the parish church’s juvenile sodality as a foundation for competitive play. The leagues organized teams based on residential streets, creating an immediate sense of community pride and belonging.

    The initiative rapidly expanded throughout Dublin during the 1950s before spreading across the island to cities including Belfast. What began as a local solution evolved into a breeding ground for legendary talent. The leagues produced an extraordinary roster of players who would achieve international acclaim, including Manchester United’s European Cup winner Tony Dunn, Arsenal and Juventus star Liam Brady, and Leeds United icon Johnny Giles.

    Northern Ireland similarly benefited from O’Leary’s vision, with three members of their historic 1958 World Cup squad—Harry Gregg, Bertie Peacock, and Jimmy McIlroy—having developed their skills in the street leagues. Later participants included Manchester United’s Sammy McIlroy and current Northern Ireland assistant manager Jimmy Nicholl.

    O’Leary’s influence extended beyond community organizing to direct involvement with the Republic of Ireland national team. Serving as kitman for 16 years during Irish football’s golden era, he witnessed iconic victories including the historic defeat of England at Euro 1988 and the stunning triumph over Italy at the 1994 World Cup.

    Film producer Fergus Dowd emphasizes the cultural significance of O’Leary’s creation: “These kids had a jersey on, they were representing their road and their mothers and fathers were watching. It was a massive community event that grew organically from Charlie’s vision.”

    Reflecting on his extraordinary life in football, which included refereeing behind the Iron Curtain during the Cold War, O’Leary identifies meeting Pope John Paul II during the 1990 World Cup as his most cherished memory. “I was frozen, I couldn’t speak,” he recalls. “That to me was the biggest thrill I ever got in my life.”

    The documentary not only chronicles O’Leary’s personal journey but preserves the story of an innovative community program that transformed Irish football and provided opportunities for generations of young athletes who might otherwise have been overlooked by traditional systems.

  • More Ghanaians are wearing a cultural outfit after their president was mocked

    More Ghanaians are wearing a cultural outfit after their president was mocked

    ACCRA, Ghana — A cultural revival is sweeping through Ghana as the traditional fugu garment gains unprecedented popularity, transforming from regional attire into a national symbol of heritage pride. This remarkable resurgence originated from an unexpected source: social media criticism directed at President John Dramani Mahama’s choice to wear the distinctive striped smock during an official visit to Zambia in early February.

    The online mockery triggered a powerful counter-movement among Ghanaians determined to defend their cultural legacy. The groundswell of support culminated in Tourism Minister Abla Dzifa Gomashie’s official declaration of Wednesdays as “Fugu Day” on February 10, establishing a weekly celebration of national identity through fashion.

    Across central Accra, vendors like Clement Azaabire witness the transformation firsthand as he displays meticulously sewn fugu smocks that dance in the breeze. After fifteen years of dedicated craftsmanship, Azaabire now experiences unprecedented demand, with inventory selling rapidly since the cultural movement gained momentum.

    The fugu’s historical significance traces back to Ghana’s independence era when first President Kwame Nkrumah wore the garment during the landmark 1957 ceremony. Traditionally handwoven by northern artisans using narrow looms, the fabric (known locally as batakari) represents generations of weaving expertise passed through families. Scholars attribute its development to West African trade routes and cultural exchanges with Mossi and Hausa communities, with the term ‘fugu’ deriving from the Mossi word for cloth.

    Contemporary fashion designers like Perfectual Linnan of Roots by Linnan are reimagining the traditional fabric for modern audiences, creating jackets, trousers and everyday wear that maintains cultural connections while appealing to broader demographics. “We’re demonstrating how northern fabric can adapt to different styles,” Linnan explains. “Even those who prefer contemporary fashion can carry cultural heritage with them.”

    This renaissance presents both opportunities and challenges for the artisan community. Moses Adibasa, who has crafted traditional smocks for nearly two decades, expresses optimism about the economic ripple effect benefiting thread sellers, weavers and tailors alike. However, production limitations threaten to constrain growth. Abigail Naki Gabor, secretary of Ghana’s smock weavers and sellers association, notes that many artisans struggle to meet escalating demand due to manual production methods.

    The government is responding with broader initiatives including the “Wear Ghana” campaign promoting local fashion through upcoming trade exhibitions, according to Kofi Atta Kakra Kusi of the Ghana Tourism Authority. Yet Linnan cautions against treating the garment purely as commodity: “This represents careful, intentional craftsmanship. If we prioritize commercialization over cultural preservation, we risk losing something profoundly important.”

  • Police share major update in search for missing mother-of-six Trisha Graf

    Police share major update in search for missing mother-of-six Trisha Graf

    South Australian police have relaunched intensive search operations for Trisha Graf, a 41-year-old mother of six who vanished under mysterious circumstances just days before Christmas last year. The renewed investigation focuses on two critical locations in the remote mining town of Andamooka, approximately 600 kilometers north of Adelaide.

    Ms. Graf was last visually confirmed driving along Dunstan Drive in the early hours of December 12, 2023, following an unusual sequence of events that began with her departure from a Roxby Downs hotel with a companion. During her journey, her white 2012 Ford Territory (SA registration S254 BCX) collided with a kangaroo near the Andamooka Township, though she proceeded with her travel despite the incident.

    The case took a disturbing turn approximately ten hours after her last sighting when her partner and a friend discovered her vehicle inexplicably positioned on a dirt mound adjacent to Blue Dam, east of Andamooka. The car was found in an immobilized state, yet there was no trace of Ms. Graf at the scene.

    Initial search efforts included comprehensive ground examinations of the surrounding wilderness and underwater explorations within the dam itself. Authorities subsequently expanded operations to include aerial surveillance techniques covering broader geographical areas. The investigation was officially elevated to a major crime status in January, reflecting growing concerns about potential criminal involvement.

    After more than two months of exhaustive investigation, police have returned to Andamooka with specific forensic objectives. The current operational strategy involves meticulous examination of a residential property within the township and multiple abandoned mine shafts in the proximate vicinity. These locations were identified through ongoing investigative analysis as areas of heightened interest.

    Law enforcement officials have reiterated their appeal for public assistance, urging anyone with information regarding Ms. Graf’s movements or possible whereabouts to contact Crime Stoppers immediately. The case continues to generate significant community concern throughout the region, with family members expressing profound apprehension about her welfare.

  • Multi-agency search underway after man disappears while swimming at Wallis Lake at Forster

    Multi-agency search underway after man disappears while swimming at Wallis Lake at Forster

    A comprehensive search operation continues at Wallis Lake in Forster, New South Wales, following the disappearance of a man who failed to resurface after going underwater on Sunday afternoon. Emergency services were alerted to the incident at approximately 4:45 PM when witnesses reported the individual vanishing beneath the water’s surface.

    Multiple rescue organizations have coordinated efforts to locate the missing person. Manning Great Lakes District Police are leading the operation with substantial support from Surf Life Saving Australia and Marine Rescue NSW. The initial search concentrated north of the Forster-Tuncurry Bridge, utilizing specialized equipment and personnel to scour the aquatic environment.

    Despite intensive efforts throughout Sunday, the operation proved unsuccessful in locating the man. The search resumed at first light on Monday, February 23, 2026, with crews expanding their efforts to include both the lake waters and surrounding shoreline areas. The multi-agency response represents a significant deployment of resources to the region approximately three hours north of Sydney.

    Authorities have not released identifying information about the missing individual pending family notifications. The incident has drawn attention to water safety practices in the popular recreational area, though specific circumstances leading to the disappearance remain under investigation. The search continues as emergency teams work methodically through the challenging aquatic environment.

  • ‘Kelly’s law:’ Western Australia to ban dangerous drivers during court process

    ‘Kelly’s law:’ Western Australia to ban dangerous drivers during court process

    Western Australia has implemented groundbreaking legislative changes targeting dangerous drivers following the tragic hit-and-run death of 32-year-old Kelly T’Hart. The new regulations, officially designated as ‘Kelly’s Law,’ mandate immediate driving bans for individuals charged with serious traffic offenses before their court proceedings conclude.

    The legislation emerged from a devastating incident on May 19, 2024, when T’Hart was struck and killed by an intoxicated driver while walking near Mandurah, south of Perth. The alleged driver, 26-year-old Maddison Peace Bain, fled the scene without providing assistance and subsequently faced charges for dangerous driving causing death while under alcohol influence. Despite pleading guilty, Bain retained driving privileges for months before sentencing, even driving past the victim’s family home during this period.

    This legal gap prompted the T’Hart family to campaign vigorously for reforms to the Road Traffic Act 1974. Their efforts resulted in expanded judicial authority to suspend licenses for a broader range of serious offenses, including all drink and drug driving violations, reckless operation of vehicles, extreme speeding incidents, and hit-and-run cases.

    Road Safety Minister Reece Whitby emphasized that the legislation aims to protect public safety by preventing potentially dangerous drivers from remaining on roads during legal proceedings. ‘Drivers who consider themselves above the law and continue endangering lives through dangerous or impaired driving should be prohibited from our roadways,’ Whitby stated. He characterized the law as creating a positive legacy from tragedy while providing stronger deterrents against traffic violations.

    The reforms represent a significant enhancement of previous regulations, which only imposed automatic disqualifications for limited alcohol and drug offenses. Courts now possess expanded powers to extend license disqualification periods until final case resolution.

  • Japan’s emperor expresses concern about 3/11 disaster survivors on his 66th birthday

    Japan’s emperor expresses concern about 3/11 disaster survivors on his 66th birthday

    TOKYO — Emperor Naruhito of Japan delivered poignant remarks ahead of his 66th birthday, expressing profound concern for survivors still grappling with the aftermath of the catastrophic 2011 triple disaster. Speaking just weeks before the March 11 anniversary, the monarch highlighted the ongoing challenges facing affected communities despite visible infrastructure progress.

    “While recovery of infrastructure has made progress, I feel that reconstruction of livelihoods and community still needs to be addressed,” Naruhito stated in pre-released comments. He emphasized the persistent emotional trauma survivors endure, noting: “As I think of those who lost their loved ones and had to cope with complete change of their living environment, I feel their scars have not healed yet… they stay despite the passage of time.”

    The imperial family, including Empress Masako, Princess Aiko, and Crown Prince Akishino’s family, made a traditional balcony appearance at Tokyo’s Imperial Palace to acknowledge cheering well-wishers waving Japanese flags. This public celebration contrasted with the Emperor’s sobering message about the nation’s unfinished recovery.

    The 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and subsequent tsunami claimed nearly 20,000 lives, displaced hundreds of thousands, and triggered meltdowns at Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant. While most radiation-evacuated zones have officially reopened, revitalization remains elusive due to diminished employment opportunities and fractured community bonds.

    Emperor Naruhito stressed the critical importance of intergenerational disaster education, advocating for continuous transmission of hard-earned lessons to younger Japanese citizens. He pledged to maintain closeness with affected populations, sharing their joys and sorrows while praying for future disaster prevention.

    The monarch also addressed royal succession matters, expressing hopes that Princess Aiko would develop into “a fine person as a human being and a royal member” who might contribute to international peacekeeping. His comments emerge amid ongoing debate about Japan’s male-only succession laws, which prevent the 24-year-old princess from ascending the throne and would require her to relinquish royal status upon marrying a commoner.