Govt filed review petition with NEPRA to reassess K-Electric’s tariff structure

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FAISALABAD, Jun 02 (APP):Faisalabad Electric Supply Company (FESCO) has repaired 2720 defective and burnt transformers of various capacities at its Transformer Reclamation Workshops during last 10 months to ensure uninterrupted power supply to the consumers.

According to XEN Transformer Workshop Rao Muhammad Zubair, repair and maintenance work at the Transformer Reclamation Workshops is progressing at a rapid pace to address transformer-related issues. He said that FESCO has been operating three dedicated workshops located in Faisalabad, Sargodha and Mianwali which are working round the clock in three shifts daily.

He said that total of 2720 damaged and burnt transformers of various capacities have been repaired over the past ten months from July 2024 to April 2025 in FESCO workshops including 405 transformers of 25 kVA, 850 units of 50 kVA, 814 units of 100 kVA, 495 units of 200 kVA and 145 transformers of other capacities.

He said that 1999 transformers were repaired at Faisalabad workshop including 294 of 25 kVA, 654 of 50 kVA, 594 of 100 kVA, 327 of 200 kVA and 130 of other capacities.

He said that 556 transformers were repaired at Sargodha workshop including 111 transformers of 25 kVA, 135 of 50 kVA, 156 of 100 kVA, 139 of 200 kVA and 15 other capacities.

Similarly, 165 transformers were repaired at Mianwali workshop including 72 transformers of 50 kVA, 64 of 100 kVA, and 29 of 200 kVA capacity, he added.

Rao Zubair said that all three workshops are fully equipped with the capacity for complete transformer overhauling.

Quality assurance is top priority and each repaired transformer undergoes rigorous testing to ensure operational efficiency before being dispatched for field installation, he added.

He further stated that this initiative helped provide uninterrupted electricity supply to the consumers by reducing delays in replacing or repairing damaged transformers in the field.

The FESCO is also striving hard to strengthen its infrastructure and operational efficiency besides minimizing power outages and enhancing consumer satisfaction across the region, he added.

AIOU warns students against fake ‘swift centers’

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KHANEWAL, Jun 02 (APP):Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU) regional director Ghulam Hussain Khosa on Monday warned students that Swift Centers set up by the university stood dysfunctional since July 2024 and urged them not to trust if some person or private entity offer them services in the name of swift centers.

The Multan regional director said in a statement that Swift Centers were set up to facilitate students on experimental basis but were closed due to some technical reasons. “But it has come to our knowledge that some persons and private entities were using AIOU Swift Centers name,” he added. AIOU has no link with such people or entities, he said and advised students not to trust such elements and contact directly the AIOU main campus or regional office in Multan for any guidance or problem.

He said, AIOU reserves the right to take legal action against such elements/students in case of their involvement in any illegal act. Students must be aware that no Swift Centers were now functioning under AIOU and they should not trust any person or entity if they offer services with claims that they were representing AIOU Swift centers, he said.

Restoring investors’ confidence top govt priority: Haroon

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ISLAMABAD, Jun 2 (APP):Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Haroon Akhtar Khan said on Monday that restoring confidence among foreign investors was a top government priority, with a commitment to upgrading Pakistan’s investment framework to meet international standards.

The special assistant was chairing a meeting, where the introduction of a bankruptcy law in Pakistan was discussed, with a focus on aligning the investment environment with the Prime Minister’s vision for a more conducive business and industrial atmosphere.

On the occasion, a sub-committee has been formed to propose amendments to the Corporate Rehabilitation Act 2018 with the objective of making the legislation more effective and inclusive of all necessary provisions.

The sub-committee includes senior advocates Ali Sibtain Fazli and Abid Shaban, SECP Commissioner Muzaffar Mirza, and consultant Usman Khan. The final draft of the amendments is scheduled to be presented on 13th June 2025, the statement added.

Haroon Akhtar highlighted that these legal reforms would play a pivotal role in industrial growth and that the committee’s recommendations will help reduce legal complexities affecting businesses.

Meanwhile, Haroon Akhtar also chaired a meeting focused on the revival of sick industrial units, held under the framework of State Bank of Pakistan Circular 29 of 2002.

He reiterated that reviving sick industrial units was a foremost priority for the government. He announced that new guidelines will be developed to facilitate both banks and industries in this regard.

The meeting reviewed new financial rehabilitation mechanisms for these units, emphasizing their critical role in improving the national economy. The guidelines aim to address and resolve financial challenges faced by both financial institutions and industrialists.

The government is committed to creating a favorable investment and industrial development environment, with discussions covering the list of sick units, their financial status, and revival measures, the statement added.

Pak Hajj Mission issues special guidelines to pilgrims about Rami, animal sacrifice

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MAKKAH al-MUKARRAMAH, Jun 02 (APP): The Pakistan Hajj Mission in Makkah, while issuing special guidelines on Monday regarding the timings for Rami al-Jamarat (stoning of the devil) and animal sacrifice, called upon intending pilgrims to strictly follow the instructions to avoid any untoward situations.

In light of the Saudi government’s instructions, each Maktab will have specific timings for Rami al-Jamarat on the 10th of Zilhaj, said a statement issued by the Pakistan Hajj Mission.

All pilgrims have also been advised to proceed in groups under the supervision of their Nazim as per the schedule. Each Nazim is responsible for ensuring that the pilgrims perform Rami within their allocated time slot, the statement further added.

Moreover, the Saudi authorities have scheduled the time for animal sacrifice for Pakistani pilgrims at 12:30 a.m. on the night between the 10th and 11th of Zilhaj. Therefore, all pilgrims are urged to complete the Rami of the first day before midnight.

The Hajj Mission also advised the guests of Allah Almighty to come out of the state of Ihram after performing Halq (head shaving) or Qasr (hair shortening) following the Fajr prayer on the 11th of Zilhaj.

Indian Defence Minister speech at Shangri-La Dialogue attracts doubts from international community: Chinese Scholar

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BEIJING, June 2 (APP): Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh speech at the 22nd Shangri-La Dialogue, was like a farce, full of absurdities and contradictions, which attracted widespread doubts from the international community, Prof. Cheng Xizhong, Senior Research Fellow at the Charhar Institute said on Monday.

According to The Times of India, the speech text of Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh was revised three times overnight before he took the stage to speak. Finally, the phrase “no intention to provoke China” was secretly added. This act itself is full of weirdness. If the speech was upright and frank, why did he need to beat around the bush? This kind of move undoubtedly reflects the uneasiness and lack of confidence on the part of India, Prof Cheng said in a statement.

He said that on the issue of the Sino-Indian border clash, India has even more unscrupulously reversed black and white.

The Chinese side has long made it clear that in the 2020 Galwan Valley clash, the Indian military was the one who provoked the incident.

However, in his speech at the dialogue, Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh evaded the key points and even tried to distort the facts, blaming China. This kind of statement that disregards facts is a complete disregard for international justice and fairness, he added.

What’s more astonishing is that Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh even attempted to meddle on the Taiwan issue. The Taiwan issue is at the core of China’s core interests and is China’s internal affairs, having nothing to do with India.

India engaged in the so-called “Industrial Cooperation Forum” with Taiwan last year, seriously violating the One-China Principle. However, this time Rajnath Singh stated that India “adheres to the One-China principle”. Such inconsistency is simply like a kid game.

India wants to please the United States while fearing to offend China, and finally it will end up as a sandwich. The Narendra Modi administration’s such diplomatic gamble and its wrong actions on the Taiwan issue show that it has neither the qualification nor the strength, and can only become an international laughingstock, he added.

Prof Cheng said that at the same time, India’s performance on topic of the India-Pakistan conflict has been equally dismal. Anil Chauhan, Chief of Defense Staff, rarely admitted to “losing fighter jets in the conflict” at the Shangri-La Dialogue, but was tight-lipped about the specific number, putting forward the absurd logic that “the quantity is not important and the reason is important”.

Previously, India had always denied the loss of any fighter jet and even fabricated the rumor of “shooting down 5 Pakistani fighter jets”. Now, after being slapped in the face by reality, India is still reluctant to face up to the problem. Anil Chauhan attributed the defeat to “tactical errors”, fully exposing his ugly attitude of evading responsibility, he added.

The Chinese scholar said that the various performances of India at the Shangri-La Dialogue, whether it was the false remarks made by Defense Minister Rajnath Singh on the China-India border issue and the Taiwan issue, or the evasiveness of Chief of Defense Staff Anil Chauhan on the issue of the India-Pakistan conflict, have fully demonstrated that their speeches were a complete farce.

If India wants to win respect on the international stage, it should first learn to respect facts and abide by international laws and rules, instead of seeking attention and private interests through such farcical speeches. Otherwise, India will have to face the consequences of its own actions and become increasingly isolated in the international community, he added.

NA body urges stronger oversight of private hospitals

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5e16956b30b54 — ISLAMABAD: June 11 Parliamentarians listens Federal Minister for Finance, Economic Affairs and Statistics Syed Naveed Qamar presenting the national budget 2008-09 during National Assembly session at Parliament House. The minister presents the Rs. 2010 billion budget and size is 29.7% higher than the size of estimates for 2007-08. APP photo by Afzaal Chaudhry

ISLAMABAD, Jun 02 (APP):The National Assembly Standing Committee on National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination has called for tighter regulation of private hospitals and accountability across healthcare institutions.

The committee meeting which was held under the chairmanship of Dr. Mahesh Kumar Malani, MNA, reviewed the performance of the Islamabad Healthcare Regulatory Authority (IHRA) and voiced concerns over unregulated pricing practices in private hospitals.

Members emphasized the need for collaboration with provincial healthcare commissions, particularly in Punjab, to establish standardized pricing frameworks.

IHRA was directed to submit a complete list of private hospitals, regulatory details, and updates on pending inquiries.

To address regulatory shortcomings, a sub-committee was constituted under the convenership of Dr. Amjad Ali Khan, MNA. Members of the sub-committee included MNAs Ms. Sabheen Ghoury, Dr. Shazia Sobia Aslam Soomro, and Dr. Shaista Khan.

The body will evaluate IHRA’s regulatory framework and monitor agreements with private hospitals to ensure compliance with public welfare obligations.

The committee also reviewed the operations of the National Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine (NIRM), acknowledging its contributions while pointing out concerns related to hygiene, doctor availability, and patient care.

Recommendations were made to improve staffing, cleanliness, and equitable distribution of resources.

On the legislative front, discussion on the Pharmacy (Amendment) Bill, 2024—moved by MNA Abdul Qadir Patel—was deferred due to the absence of the Minister in charge. However, the bill is expected to be taken up in the next meeting, with Dr. Shazia Sobia Aslam Soomro authorized to present it on the mover’s behalf.

The committee also discussed polio eradication efforts and pharmaceutical quality control, while stressing the need for budget transparency and performance audits.

Chairperson Dr. Malani commended progress made but underlined the urgency of ensuring accountability and timely reforms in the health sector.

The meeting was attended by several MNAs both in person and virtually, along with the Minister and senior officials from the Ministry of Health and its attached departments.

Olympian Arshad Nadeem returns home

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KHANEWAL, Jun 02 (APP): Pakistan’s star javelin thrower and Olympic finalist Arshad Nadeem returned to his hometown Mian Channu on Sunday after securing a gold medal at the Asian Athletics Championships held in South Korea.

A large number of journalists, social workers, and local residents gathered at 15-EL Bridge to receive the national hero. The crowd showered Arshad with rose petals, presented him floral garlands, and chanted slogans in his honour.

Speaking to media, Arshad Nadeem said he dedicates his gold medal to the martyrs of Pakistan. “This medal is not just mine; it is a gift to the nation and a result of my parents’ prayers and the support of the Pakistani people,” he stated.

Expressing his commitment to the sport, Arshad added, “I continue to guide young athletes in javelin throw through phone consultations and provide complete training support. My passion remains strong, and InshaAllah, I will continue to bring more laurels to the country.”

He also acknowledged the role of his coaches and the government in his success. “This achievement is the result of hard work—mine, my coach’s, and the government’s continued support. I thank the authorities for their cooperation,” he added.

After the warm welcome, Arshad Nadeem proceeded to his native village, Chak 101/15-EL, where he received an emotional homecoming. Family members, including his overjoyed mother, embraced him with tears of happiness. His father, Muhammad Ashraf, expressed pride in his son’s achievements and predicted more success, saying, “My son will bring home five more gold medals.”

Friends and villagers celebrated the occasion with traditional drum beats and dancing, highlighting the pride and joy Arshad’s victory has brought to his community.

RDA demolishes road infrastructure of illegal housing scheme

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RAWALPINDI, Jun 02 (APP):Following directives from the Divisional Intelligence Committee, the Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA)’s Task Force was ramping up its operation against illegal developments and illegal housing schemes.

According to an RDA spokesperson, the RDA Enforcement Squad has executed a significant operation targeting a housing scheme, PIA Officers Cooperative Housing Scheme at Mouza Adyala, Tehsil and District Rawalpindi.

The operation led to the sealing site offices and the demolition of the road infrastructure.

The crackdown was supervised by the Director General (DG) RDA, Kinza Murtaza, who emphasised the continuation of such operations to combat fraudulent practices and to protect citizens from exploitation.

Under the guidance of the Commissioner Rawalpindi, “We are committed to maintaining a vigorous approach in eliminating illegal development in housing societies.” The RDA consistently issues press releases to inform the public and advises citizens to avoid investing in illegal housing schemes.

The public is encouraged to visit the RDA website (www.rda.gop.pk) and only engage with approved housing schemes.

Despite previous warnings to cease illegal advertisements, bookings, and development activities, the owners of the mentioned housing schemes continued to operate booking offices in violation of regulations.

FBI appreciates Rawalpindi Police for ‘excellent’ investigation in Wajiha Swati murder case

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RAWALPINDI, Jun 02 (APP):The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) of the United States on Monday appreciated the Rawalpindi Police for their ‘excellent’ investigation and prosecution to get the accused in the murder case of US national Wajiha Swati convicted.

FBI appreciates Rawalpindi Police for ‘excellent’ investigation in Wajiha Swati murder case

A US delegation comprising FBI Legal Attaché Chris Watkins, Maxi Million Assistant Legal Attaché and Muhammad Naveed presented a letter of appreciation in this regard to City Police Officer Rawalpindi Syed Khalid Hamdani during a meeting here at the Police Lines Headquarters.

Chris Watkins said, the FBI appreciated CPO Hamdani and his team for the “excellent investigation” and follow-up of the case, resulting into strict punishment to the culprits in the American citizen Wajiha Swati’s murder case.

“CPO Hamdani and other Rawalpindi Police officers provided excellent security to the FBI teams during the hearing of the Wajiha Swati murder case, for which we are grateful,” he added.

The delegation thanked CPO Syed Khalid Hamdani on behalf of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

Besides CPO Hamdani, the delegation also gave certificates of appreciation to police and prosecution officers for their investigation, prosecution, and security of the case.

The police officers who received the certificates included Inspector Sajjad-ul-Hassan, Inspector Aslam Shahzad, Sub-Inspector Shabbir Hussain, ASI Shahzad Ali, Head Constable Muhammad Rehan, and Constable Muhammad Zohaib.

The prosecution officers included Mian Imran Rahim, Deputy District Public Prosecutor, and Assistant District Public Prosecutors Iffat Sultana, Amina Ashraf, and Zeigham Abbas.

CPO Hamdani on the occasion said that the recognition of the services of Rawalpindi Police and Prosecution by the US authorities was a matter of pride.

It may be mentioned that Rizwan Habib, former husband of Wajiha Swati was sentenced to death by the Additional District and Sessions Court in April this year. According to the judgment, Habib lured Wajiha Swati to Pakistan under the pretext of resolving a property dispute worth billions of rupees, and murdered her on October 16, 2021 and buried her mutilated body in his ancestral land in Hangu, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Habib’s domestic employee, Sultan, was also sentenced to seven years in prison along with a Rs 1 million fine for assisting in the abduction, murder, and disposal of the body, while his father Huryatullah, who was a co-conspirator in the case, passed away during the trial.

Online registration opens for attractive vehicle number

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LAHORE, Jun 02 (APP): The Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB), in collaboration with the Punjab Excise and Taxation Department, has begun registration for auction of attractive vehicle numbers through the e-Auction App and Web Portal.

Interested individuals can register until June 30 to bid for their preferred vehicle number, says a press release issued here on Monday.

The e-Auction system facilitates the transparent auction of motorcycle and motorcar number, allowing users to participate from the comfort of their homes. The details of successful bidders are also made available on the app.

Highlighting the significance of this initiative, PITB Chairman Faisal Yousaf stated, “The e-Auction system not only promotes transparency but also plays a crucial role in eliminating corruption and the agent mafia. This digital platform ensures that citizens can conveniently participate in online bidding and secure their desired number without any hassle.”

Chiniot food teams crack down on unsafe food practice

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CHINIOT, Jun 02 (APP):Food safety teams in Chiniot conducted inspections of 121 food businesses across the city on Monday to ensure public health and safety.

The inspections aimed to check the quality of essential commodities, with a particular focus on the artificial ripening of mangoes using calcium carbide.

The teams detected and wasted over 60 kg of mangoes ripened with prohibited calcium carbide, a substance that can cause stomach ulcers and cancer.

Fines totaling Rs 50,000 were imposed on various food businesses, including Rs 20,000 on milk shops and milk trucks for poor quality milk and Rs 30,000 on sweets, bakers, and meat shops for lacking medical screening certificates and violating hygiene rules.

Three kg of substandard ketchup and 2 kg of expired products were disposed of on the spot.

The Punjab Food Authority emphasized the importance of ensuring food safety, particularly during the summer season when mangoes are in high demand.

Pak-EPA leads clean-up drive at Margalla Hills to mark World Environment Day

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ISLAMABAD, Jun 02 (APP):The Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency (Pak-EPA) organized a two-day clean-up campaign at Margalla Hills Trail 5, collecting over 500 kg of plastic and solid waste to mark World Environment Day 2025.

Held on June 1-2, the drive mobilized 40 volunteers from universities, NGOs, and local communities to remove plastic bottles, wrappers, and other non-biodegradable waste from the popular hiking trail. This year’s global theme, “Eliminate Plastic Pollution,” highlighted the urgent need to tackle plastic waste harming ecosystems.

Aisha Humera, Secretary of the Ministry of Climate Change, praised volunteers and stressed collective responsibility.

“Plastic waste is invading our oceans, food, and even our bodies. Laws alone aren’t enough—public awareness and sustainable habits are key,” she said.

Pak-EPA Director General Nazia Zeb Ali emphasized behavioral change: “This drive isn’t just about cleaning trails; it’s about protecting biodiversity and changing mindsets. Plastic pollution is a severe threat, and everyone must act.”

Participants noted plastic bags as a major pollutant, endangering wildlife and soil. The event also spotlighted broader issues like deforestation and encroachments in Margalla Hills.

With World Environment Day on June 5, Pak-EPA aims to boost public engagement in conservation. “We’re committed to safeguarding Islamabad’s environment through partnerships and awareness,” Ali added.

The clean-up sets the tone for Environment Week, urging citizens to adopt eco-friendly practices for a greener future.

Police conduct weekly general parade across province

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LAHORE, Jun 02 (APP):The Punjab Police under the directives of Inspector General of Police (IGP) Dr Usman Anwar conducted weekly general parades in the province, including Lahore, with active participation from various specialised units and senior officers overseeing the proceedings.

Senior police officers inspected the parades and reviewed the turnout and preparedness of the participating officers. Contingents from multiple units, including Police Lines, Dolphin Force, Anti-Riot Force, Traffic Police, Mujahid Squad, Special Protection Unit (SPU), Operational Command Units (OCU), Investigation Wing, Operations Wing and the Ladies Police took part in the parade.

According to the Punjab Police spokesperson, in addition to the parade, district officers carried out inspections of various departments, including the Motor Transport Wing, stores, armories and uniform depots.

The spokesperson said that general parades are being held regularly every Monday across the province.

IG Punjab Dr. Usman Anwar said that the purpose of the general parade is to keep the personnel alert and to maintain discipline, unity, and a spirit of brotherhood among them. A parade is the best demonstration of discipline in any force, and the general parade helps maintain the fitness of officers and personnel. He further said that the parade reflects the history, heritage and traditions of the police force.

PBIT, British HC to work for UK-Punjab investments

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LAHORE, Jun 02 (APP):Punjab Board of Investment and Trade (PBIT) Chairman Muhammad Muntaha Ashraf and Head of British High Commission Lahore Office Mr. BEN Warrington discussed matters pertaining to strengthening economic cooperation in a meeting here at PBIT Headquarters on Monday.

This important meeting signaled a new chapter in UK-Punjab relations with both sides keen to explore fresh avenues for investment and bilateral trade.

The PBIT management presented a comprehensive overview of the Board’s vision, strategic priorities, and sector-specific opportunities designed to attract UK investors. Key sectors highlighted included technology, manufacturing, agriculture, and renewable energy—areas identified for their high growth potential and mutual benefit.

Chairman Muhammad Muntaha Ashraf personally led discussions emphasizing Punjab’s commitment to creating a business-friendly environment, improving regulatory frameworks, and facilitating ease of doing business to attract more UK investments. He expressed optimism about the future of UK-Punjab economic relations, highlighting the critical role of collaborative efforts in achieving shared prosperity.

Mr. BEN Warrington appreciated the thorough presentation and engaged actively in dialogue about strategic partnerships and potential joint ventures. He reaffirmed the British High Commission’s commitment to supporting Pakistan’s economic development and enhancing bilateral trade relations through targeted investment initiatives.

Both leaders agreed to strengthen communication channels and establish regular consultations to monitor progress and address challenges. The meeting also set the stage for upcoming investment forums and business delegations aimed at deepening economic ties.

This visit marks a pivotal step in fostering a resilient and dynamic partnership between Punjab and the United Kingdom, aligned with long-term goals of sustainable growth and regional development.

Maritime Affairs minister reviews progress, reforms in PNSC

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KARACHI, Jun 02 (APP): Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry held meetings to review progress and strategic reforms at his office in Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC) here on Monday.

He was apprised of the progress, and strategic reforms in detail.

The minister also took briefing on the educational endowement fund and progress on complaint cell during the meetings

The purpose of the complaint cell was to receive remonstrances of the general public and suggestions about the maritime affairs for transparency, which is part of the reforms agenda.

Arrangements made for Adiala Jail inmates for meeting with close relatives on Eid-ul-Azha

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RAWALPINDI, Jun 02 (APP): Like other jails of the province, special arrangements have been made at the Adiala Jail in light of the orders of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz for meeting of the inmates with their families on the occasion of Eid-ul-Azha.

Inspector General Prisons Punjab Mian Farooq Nazir had issued a directive in this regard to all jail superintendents across the province, a Punjab Prisons spokesman told APP on Monday.

Under the directive, the spokesman said, convicted and under-trial prisoners, including women and juveniles also, would be able to meet their close relatives from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on the first and second days of Eid-ul-Azha.

Except parents, sisters, brothers, sons, daughters and wives/husband, no other relatives and friends would be allowed to meet the prisoners, the spokesman said.

Jail employees would be deployed on special duties to avoid any trouble to the prisoners or their relatives, he said. It was also directed that food and other edibles to be brought by the visitors for their imprisoned relatives would be allowed after thorough checking, he added.

The spokesperson said that the special meetings would be arranged in the interview shed only.

To eliminate the possibility of any kind of corruption, it was further directed that the jail superintendents, deputy superintendents and other duty officers should continuously visit the waiting rooms and meeting sheds, and redress the complaints lodged by the prisoners or relatives, if any, on the spot, he added.

The special meetings would be monitored through the central monitoring system and no irregularity would be tolerated, the spokesman said.

The jail superintendents were also directed to request well-to-do people to arrange meat for dinners for the inmates.

Sheikh Dr. Maher Al-Muaiqly appointed to lead Eid al-Adha prayer at Grand Mosque

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By Rehan Khan

MAKKAH AL-MUKARRAMAH, June 02 (APP):The Presidency for Religious Affairs at the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque has announced the appointment of Sheikh Dr. Maher Al-Muaiqly as the preacher for this year’s Eid al-Adha prayer at the Grand Mosque in Makkah, corresponding to 1446 AH.

Sheikh Dr. Maher Al-Muaiqly appointed to lead Eid al-Adha prayer at Grand Mosque

A highly respected figure in the Islamic world, Sheikh Dr. Al-Muaiqly is renowned for his eloquence and deep knowledge of Islamic jurisprudence. His appointment follows his prominent role last year, when he was selected to deliver the Arafah sermon during the annual Hajj pilgrimage.

Sheikh Al-Muaiqly began his academic journey at the College of Teachers in Madinah before obtaining a master’s degree in 1425 AH (2004/2005) from the College of Sharia at Umm Al-Qura University. His thesis focused on jurisprudential issues within the Hanbali school, particularly those narrated by Abdulmalik Al-Maimouni. In 1434 AH (2012/2013), he earned a doctorate in Shafi’i jurisprudence, graduating with first-class honors. His dissertation was a critical verification of Tuhfat Al-Nabih Sharh Al-Tanbih, a classical legal text by Imam Al-Shirazi on criminal and judicial matters.

Before rising to religious prominence, Sheikh Al-Muaiqly served as a mathematics teacher and student advisor in Makkah. He later joined the faculty of Umm Al-Qura University, where he became an assistant professor in the Department of Judicial Studies and served as Vice Dean for Graduate Studies and Scientific Research.

His journey as a prayer leader began at Saadi Mosque in Makkah’s Al-Awali neighborhood. He led prayers at the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah during Ramadan in 1426 and 1427 AH. In 1428 AH, he was entrusted with leading Taraweeh and Tahajjud prayers at the Grand Mosque and was officially appointed as one of its Imams later that year – a role he continues to fulfill with distinction.

Sheikh Al-Muaiqly is widely recognized as one of the foremost Quran reciters in the Islamic world, admired for his captivating voice and spiritual presence during congregational prayers. His upcoming sermon during the Eid al-Adha prayer is expected to draw millions of worshippers, both in person and via global broadcasts.

PHF name squad for Nations Hockey Cup

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ISLAMABAD, Jun 02 (APP): The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has announced a 20-member squad, led by Ammad Butt, for the upcoming Nations Hockey Cup in Malaysia from June 15 to 21.

The team was selected after trials here at the Naseer Banda Hockey Stadium, which were also witnessed by the Director General Pakistan Sports Board, Yasir Pirzada.

According to Pakistan Hockey Federation Secretary General Rana Mujahid, the national team will depart for Malaysia on June 8 and play three matches before the tournament.

The national squad includes Moneeb-ur-Rehman, Abdullah Ishtiaq, Ammad Butt, Muhammad Abdullah, Sufyan Khan, Abdul Manan, Hammad Anjum, Arshad Liaqat, Moin Shakeel, Zakaria Hayat, Ghazanfar Ali, Salman Razzak, Junaid Manzoor, Hanan Shahid, Rana Waheed, Afraz Khan, Abdul Rehman, Ahmed Nadeem, Mohibullah, Rana Waleed.

Pakistan is placed in Pool B with New Zealand, Malaysia, and Japan.

PHF President Tariq Bugti mentioned that talks are underway for hockey funding, and daily allowances are being paid to national players.

Head coach Olympian Tahir Zaman expressed hope for success in the Nations Cup, emphasizing the need for Pro League access to revive Pakistan’s hockey team.

Aleem emphasizes to create more opportunities for economic growth

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