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  • Shariah-compliant digital assets on cards as Pakistan Crypto Council CEO meets Malaysian FM

    Shariah-compliant digital assets on cards as Pakistan Crypto Council CEO meets Malaysian FM

    In a pivotal step toward strengthening regional cooperation in the digital economy, the Foreign Minister of Malaysia Mohamad Bin Haji Hasan met today with Bilal Bin Saqib, CEO of the Pakistan Crypto Council (PCC), to explore collaborative opportunities in blockchain technology, digital assets, and Shariah-compliant finance.

    The meeting focused on laying the groundwork for a Pakistan-Malaysia Digital Finance Partnership — a forward-looking initiative aimed at co-developing FATF-compliant, Shariah-aligned digital asset frameworks that can serve as a model for the broader Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).

    “Malaysia’s leadership in Islamic finance and Pakistan’s momentum in crypto regulation form a natural alliance,” said Bilal Bin Saqib. “Together, we have a historic opportunity to set global standards for ethical innovation in digital finance — from halal stablecoins and tokenized sukuks to compliant regulatory sandboxes and youth empowerment.”

    The Pakistan Crypto Council is leading efforts to design a passportable crypto regulatory framework tailored to emerging markets — one that fosters innovation while ensuring full compliance with international standards.

    During the meeting, both parties expressed strong alignment on key areas of cooperation, including regulatory coordination between financial authorities and cross-border talent development and Web3 education initiatives.

    This milestone engagement signals the beginning of a deeper economic and technological partnership between Pakistan and Malaysia — driven by a shared vision to build the future of finance through values-based innovation and strategic collaboration.

    Notably, this meeting follows the recent announcement that Binance Founder Changpeng Zhao (“CZ”) has joined the Pakistan Crypto Council as a Strategic Advisor, reinforcing global confidence in Pakistan’s emerging leadership role in the digital asset space.

  • Chef Zakir Hussain passes away at 58

    Chef Zakir Hussain passes away at 58

    Pakistan’s beloved culinary expert, Chef Zakir Hussain, passed away on April 21 at the age of 58, after an extended struggle with kidney disease, leaving a profound legacy that has influenced the culinary skills of countless individuals. His departure has sparked immense sorrow throughout the nation and beyond.

    Chef Zakir, who had been undergoing treatment in the United States, returned to Karachi about a month ago. Surrounded by family and close friends, he chose to spend his remaining days in the city where his culinary journey began.

    His funeral is scheduled for Tuesday, following Asr prayers, at Jamia Rashidia in Malir Saudabad. He will be interred at the Saudabad cemetery.

    Born on February 16, 1967, in Karachi, Zakir’s passion for cooking was nurtured from an early age. His father, Abdul Aziz Qureshi, worked as a chef for Pakistan’s national airline, ensuring that culinary skills ran deeply in the family. After completing his studies at Kulsoom Bai Valika School and Allama Iqbal College, Zakir embarked on his professional journey in 1980 at Karachi’s Sheraton Hotel. His eagerness to learn led him far beyond Pakistan to culinary hotspots like Dubai, Singapore, South Africa and the UK, where he spent over a decade refining his skills.

    However, it was through television that Chef Zakir became a familiar name in households. His on-screen presence was not only instructional but also warm, welcoming and brimming with enthusiasm. His talent for teaching both traditional Pakistani dishes and international cuisine captivated audiences not only in Pakistan but also across South Asia.

    From homemakers to budding chefs, all tuned in to watch him simplify intricate recipes into manageable steps. His charm, serene demeanour and extensive knowledge made him a guiding figure in countless kitchens.

    As news of his passing surfaced, an outpouring of tributes came from admirers. Chef Zakir leaves behind more than just recipes; he has created a rich legacy filled with love for food, culture and the joy of sharing. His influence on Pakistani culinary arts is everlasting, and his memory will forever remain cherished.

  • Aamir Jamal fined for code of conduct breach

    Aamir Jamal fined for code of conduct breach

    Karachi Kings all-rounder Aamir Jamal has been fined for violating the code of conduct during the match against Peshawar Zalmi.

    In a thrilling game where Karachi Kings won by just two wickets, the player was found guilty of a Level 1 offence under the ICC’s Article 2.5, which relates to the use of inappropriate language or gestures.

    The incident occurred during the 15th over of the first innings when Aamir dismissed Hussain Talat and then used inappropriate words near the batter. As a result, he has been fined five percent of his match fee.

    Aamir accepted the charge and the penalty given by the match referee, Iftikhar Ahmed. The on-field umpires, Faisal Khan Afridi and Paul Reiffel, reported the incident.

  • Oscar voters required to view all films before casting ballots

    Oscar voters required to view all films before casting ballots

    Oscar voters will be required to demonstrate that they have watched all the films in each category before they cast their final ballots, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced Monday.

    The new rule, which addresses a longstanding concern that voters are skipping some films, will apply for the next Oscars ceremony in March 2026, the Academy said in a statement.

    The Academy previously operated under an honor system that voters would see every Oscar-nominated film before casting their ballots.

    However, with the number of nominees growing in recent years, some voters have admitted not fully fulfilling that duty.

    Under the new system, Academy members will be tracked on the organization’s voters-only streaming platform to make sure they have watched each film.

    For movies seen elsewhere, such as in cinemas or at festival screenings, voters will be required to “fill out a form” vouching for when and where it was watched, according to the Hollywood Reporter.

    For the Best Picture category alone, which has 10 nominated films, competing studios traditionally host glitzy events to woo voters during their awards campaigns, with parties, screenings and festival showings, sometimes followed by Q&A sessions with the stars and filmmakers.

    The Academy also weighed in on a controversy that arose during the last voting season, which was marred by questions about the use of artificial intelligence in movies, such as “The Brutalist” and “Emilia Perez.”

    In guidance issued Monday, the Academy said AI and other digital tools will “neither help nor harm the chances of achieving a nomination.”

    The new rule clarifies that the use of technology is not disqualifying.

    “The Academy and each branch will judge the achievement, taking into account the degree to which a human was at the heart of the creative authorship when choosing which movie to award.”

  • ‘Found my peace here’: Saif Ali Khan buys dream home in Qatar

    ‘Found my peace here’: Saif Ali Khan buys dream home in Qatar

    Bollywood star Saif Ali Khan has shared his love for Qatar, calling it a safe, beautiful, and ideal destination for a holiday near India.

    According to Indian media, Saif believes that “Qatar is a great place to spend holidays where I felt peace and security, and also found a home-like environment.” 

    The actor stayed in Qatar while working on a project and was deeply impressed by the lifestyle, views, and comfort. Reports also claim that he planned to buy a house there.

    “The lifestyle, beautiful scenery, fine cuisine, and luxurious environment full of privacy really stood out to me,” he shared.

    Speaking about a particular residential property, he said, “It gave me a ‘home away from home’ feeling.”

    Sharing his priorities while selecting a vacation destination, Saif Ali Khan said, “Choosing a place to spend holidays or have a second home is important. It should be easily accessible and safe.”

    He praised Qatar’s unique setting, saying, “The concept of another island within an island is ideal for people who like a peaceful and secluded environment.”

  • US lawmaker ‘avoids’ mentioning Khan on Pakistan visit; resumes tweeting for his release after return

    US lawmaker ‘avoids’ mentioning Khan on Pakistan visit; resumes tweeting for his release after return

    Days after his visit to Pakistan, Republican Congressman Jack Bergman has once again tweeted for the release of jailed former prime minister (PM) Imran Khan.

    As per the details, lawmaker Bergman was a part of the three-member United States (US) congressional delegation that visited Pakistan on April 12 and held multiple meetings with Pakistani officials, including Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir.

    Describing their visit to Pakistan as “highly successful and productive”, the delegation had expressed optimism for stronger Pakistan-US relations in the future.

    Days after the trip, Bergman on Tuesday took to his official X (formerly Twitter) handle and said he reaffirmed his call for the release of the incarcerated Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder.

    “After my Pakistan visit, engaging with leaders & communities there & in the US, I reaffirm my call for Imran Khan’s release,” he said, adding that a strong bilateral partnership thrived on shared values of democracy, human rights and economic prosperity.

    “Let’s work together for freedom & stability,” he said further.

    Earlier, the Associated Press of Pakistan (APP) quoted Congressman Bergman as underscoring the strategic importance of the relationship between the two countries during the visit. He had also said that the significance of the partnership was “undeniable” and would remain relevant in the years to come.

    “We are working in specific sectors and promoting partnerships. One such critical area is mineral development,” he had said and added that the collaboration would lay the foundation for robust industries that could benefit not only Pakistan but the global economy.

    Meanwhile, National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq had also shared details of meeting with the delegation and said that they “did not even mention Imran Khan”. 

    “I can say with full confidence that as they [US delegation] were leaving, they categorically stated they have no connection to Pakistan’s internal politics,” the speaker of the National Assembly had claimed while speaking to media on April 15.

    The statements regarding the details of the meetings had come in light of Congressman Bergman’s support for Khan. He had made multiple tweets for the jailed ex-PM’s release, including one on January 23, when he had written, “The facts are straightforward; it’s no time to mince words. Free Imran Khan.”

    On February 14, Bergman in another post on X, had shared a picture with PTI leader and YouTuber Shahbaz Gill as well as former president Dr Arif Alvi with the caption, “Great to have former President of Pakistan Dr. @ArifAlvi along with Dr. @SHABAZGIL Former Chief of Staff of Imran Khan in our office today. It’s time to Free Imran Khan!”

  • Match-fixing allegations rock Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2025

    Match-fixing allegations rock Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2025

    The Indian Premier League (IPL) is under fire, midway through the 2025 season, as the Rajasthan Royals are facing serious allegations of match-fixing. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has reportedly formed an investigation committee to probe the matter.

    According to Indian media reports, the Rajasthan Cricket Association’s (RCA) ad-hoc committee convenor, Jaydeep, has accused Rajasthan Royals of fixing their recent match against Lucknow Super Giants. He alleged that the match’s outcome was suspicious and claimed even “children could tell” it was fixed.

    “How can a team lose on their home ground when just a few runs are needed?” he questioned, adding that the state government had formed an ad-hoc committee to investigate the matter.

    Rajasthan Royals lost the match to Lucknow Super Giants by just two runs, an outcome that raised eyebrows among fans and officials alike.

    Following the allegations, a spokesperson for the BCCI confirmed that a special committee had been set up to investigate the match-fixing claims. The board has taken the issue seriously and stated that if the allegations are proven, strict penalties will be imposed.

    The controversy has sparked outrage among cricket fans and experts, many of whom have heavily criticised the incident. On social media, hashtags like #RRMatchFixing and #IPL2025Scandal have been trending, reflecting the widespread concern within the cricket community.

    The investigation committee is expected to question the Rajasthan Royals’ players, coaching staff, and other related individuals. If the allegations are proven true, the team could face heavy fines and possible suspensions.

  • Iffat Omar appointed Punjab cultural adviser: report

    Iffat Omar appointed Punjab cultural adviser: report

    The Punjab government has given an important new role to actress and host Iffat Omar.

    According to a private news channel, Iffat Omar has been appointed as the Cultural Advisor for Punjab. She will be responsible for reviving and promoting culture across the province.

    Reports also claim she has been given an office in the Alhamra Cultural Complex in Lahore.

    Iffat Omar, who has often expressed frustration with politics, reportedly shared her concerns with Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz before taking on this role.

    With her new position, fans are curious to see how the former showbiz star brings a fresh cultural vibe to Punjab.

  • Farmer shoots boy dead for bathing at his tubewell

    Farmer shoots boy dead for bathing at his tubewell

    A 13-year-old boy, Muhammad Zaki, was allegedly shot dead by a farmer, Muhammad Tariq, for bathing at his tubewell in Chak 429/EB, within the Sheikh Fazil Police limits in Burewala, Vehari district.

    According to police spokesperson Adnan Tariq, Irshad Ahmed Butt filed an FIR, stating that his grandson Zaki had accompanied him to the tubewell. While some boys were bathing there, Zaki stood nearby. The farmer allegedly arrived, shouted at the boys for using his tubewell, and then opened fire, injuring Zaki.

    The boy was taken to the Tehsil Headquarters Hospital in Burewala, where he later died. The police arrested the suspect three hours after the incident.

    Wanted criminal killed in shootout 

    A robber, Ghulam Mustafa, reportedly involved in over 50 criminal cases, was killed, and a police constable was injured in an exchange of fire near Khairpur Tamewali, police said.

    Mustafa and two accomplices had allegedly snatched a motorcycle from a man named Rizwan and fled. Police cordoned off the area, followed by a shootout. Constable Muhammad Amin sustained serious injuries, while Mustafa was found dead after the firing stopped.

    Police believe Mustafa was shot by his own accomplices. His body was shifted to THQ Hospital, and a case has been registered against the two suspects who fled.


    Undentified man found dead on Tezgam Express

    The hanging body of an unidentified man was found in the toilet of the Tezgam Express train at Lahore Railway Station.

    The train was reportedly travelling from Karachi to Rawalpindi when passengers discovered the body, believed to be that of a 60 to 70-year-old man. Railway police found no signs of violence and have moved the body to the morgue. Efforts are ongoing to identify the deceased and determine the cause of death.

  • VIDEO: Indians impressed by Lahore Qalandars’ lavish rewards to players

    VIDEO: Indians impressed by Lahore Qalandars’ lavish rewards to players

    People may think that the Pakistan Super League (PSL) is not as glamorous as the Indian Premier League (IPL), but a recent video shared by the popular Indian cricket platform CricTracker has revealed something that has truly impressed Indian fans.

    The video discusses how the Lahore Qalandars, one of the PSL teams, are going all out when it comes to rewarding their players. What caught everyone’s attention was the gift given to their captain, Shaheen Shah Afridi — a gold-plated iPhone 16 Pro (16-carat), just for his performance in the current PSL season!

    But that’s not the only surprise. Last year, when Lahore Qalandars won the PSL for the second time in a row, their team management gifted three land plots in Qalandar City, Lahore, to Shaheen Afridi. The approximate value of each plot was around 92.5 lakh Pakistani rupees, equivalent to approximately ₹27 lakh in Indian currency.

    And it wasn’t just Shaheen, but players like Zaman Khan and Rashid Khan, as well as bench players who didn’t play a single match, also received land as gifts.

    This kind of appreciation and reward is something rarely seen, even in the IPL. Indian fans are now wondering if any IPL team has ever given land or gold phones to their players as a reward for good performance.