L-R: Bhupinder Singh Bhasin, Mandip Singh and Ravi Bakshi – Source: BBC
By Asia Samachar | Britain |
LONDON — Britain’s Sikh community is warning of a resurgence in racist abuse and attacks, with community leaders likening the current climate to the hostility of the 1970s, the BBC reported.
Mandip Singh, trustee of the Khalsa Jatha Gurdwara at Shepherd’s Bush in west London — the oldest Sikh temple in the UK and western Europe — said many Sikhs are anxious.
“It’s not just about being Sikh. It’s about being brown. People don’t distinguish between Sikhs, Muslims, Hindus,” he told the BBC. “It feels like the 1970s again. I remember the National Front. The difference now is social media is amplifying hate.”
The gurdwara, founded in 1913, expects to spend about £40,000 annually on security, diverting donations away from community services. Singh, who liaises with 90 gurdwaras nationwide, said he wants Sikh places of worship to receive the same government security grants that mosques and synagogues currently receive.
Recent incidents cited include the rape of a Sikh woman in Oldbury, assaults on Sikh taxi drivers in Wolverhampton, and the shooting of a nine-year-old girl with an air gun in Bristol. “These things are leading to an atmosphere of fear,” Singh said.
Metropolitan Police figures show more than 21,000 hate crimes were recorded in London in the year to August. Although this represents a fall of 17.4% compared with the previous year, there was an above-average surge in June, July and August, with more than 2,000 incidents in each month.
For some, the hostility is a reminder of earlier decades. “As someone who’s born and brought up in the UK, I do remember a time during the 70s and 80s when racism was rife,” said Bhupinder Singh Bhasin, a lifelong worshipper at the gurdwara. “Living here for all these years I thought we’d overcome a lot of the issues in society, so it’s sad to see the ugly side of racism rising up again.”
Ravi Bakshi, a volunteer at the temple, said racist abuse has been a constant presence. “I’ve heard, ‘Go back to your country’ all my life. But I was born here. I’m proud to be British and Sikh – how do you justify that kind of hate?” she said.
Despite the concerns, Bhasin urged unity: “We need to come together as a community, no matter which tradition we follow, no matter which colour, which race we belong to. We live in one community and we need to treat each other fairly and respectfully.”
ASIA SAMACHAR is an online newspaper for Sikhs / Punjabis in Southeast Asia and beyond. You can leave your comments at our website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We will delete comments we deem offensive or potentially libelous. You can reach us via WhatsApp +6017-335-1399 or email: asia.samachar@gmail.com. For obituary announcements, click here
Panjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema in a press conference on Sept 29, 2025, at the Legislative Assembly – Photo: Photo grab from video on his Facebook
By Panjab & Sikh Affairs Weekly Digest | Malaysia |
The Panjab government convened a 2-day special session of the state Legislative Assembly on 26 & 29 Sep to discuss flood relief and rehabilitation.
On day 1, the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) members reached the assembly with placards decrying the Indian union government. The posturing was optics because the union government was not even present in the assembly.
Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema hit out at the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led union government, accusing it of adopting a ‘step-motherly’ attitude towards Panjab. He said, out of the US$181 million flood-relief package, not a single rupee has been disbursed to Panjab till now.
Water Resources Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal, who presented the resolution in the House, demanded a special package of USD 2.27B for flood-affected families, farmers, and infrastructure restoration across the State. Leader of Opposition (LoP), Indian National Congress party’s Partap Singh Bajwa, blamed the AAP government for indulging in blame game.
INC demanded removals of Goyal and Principal Secretary of Water Resources Department Krishan Kumar. On day 2, the assembly passed a Rehabilitation of Panjab resolution condemning the union government. The resolution was passed unanimously though BJP legislators were absent.
The BJP had enacted a side show—a parallel mock Vidhan Sabha (state assembly) session on the topic: Who is responsible for the current state of Panjab? Panjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann alleged the Prime Minister Narender Modi is not giving him time to make a representation. He also said the union government has ‘imposed an undeclared Emergency’ on Panjab.
However, on 30 Sep evening, he met Union Home Minister Amit Shah. The session seemed futile when the need is that an all-party delegation meets the PM and asks for support and funds.
Meanwhile, speaking at an event in Pathankot on 28 Sep, LoP Bajwa said Panjab stands at the core of India’s engagement with Eurasia. Rather than being seen as a border state, the government should reposition Panjab as India’s gateway to Eurasia connecting India with Central Asia and Europe.
(Adapted from Panjab & Sikh Affairs Weekly Digest, Volume 3, Issue 40, 30 September 2025)
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(Asia Samachar, 25 Feb 2024)
ASIA SAMACHAR is an online newspaper for Sikhs / Punjabis in Southeast Asia and beyond. You can leave your comments at our website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We will delete comments we deem offensive or potentially libelous. You can reach us via WhatsApp +6017-335-1399 or email: asia.samachar@gmail.com. For obituary announcements, click here
We gather today, our hearts heavy with grief, yet overflowing with the profound love our father Mohan Singh s/o Late Basant Singh and Late Dhanwant Kaur, planted in our hearts. To measure a man’s life is not to count his years, but to count the hearts he touched, the kindness he extended, and the lasting legacy he left behind. By that measure, our father, a husband, a father in law, a friend, and a beloved grandfather to four, and an unforgettable mamaji to all, lived a truly magnificent life.
ASIA SAMACHAR is an online newspaper for Sikhs / Punjabis in Southeast Asia and beyond. You can leave your comments at our website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We will delete comments we deem offensive or potentially libelous. You can reach us via WhatsApp +6017-335-1399 or email: asia.samachar@gmail.com. For obituary announcements, click here
SKA Awaaz guests (L-R) : Local emcee and actor KP Sandhu, podcast guest host Rasvinder Singh Bhullar and veteran coach Jita Singh; Sharon Kaur and her dad Jagtar Singh
By Asia Samachar | Singapore |
The Sikh community in Singapore is making its mark across diverse fields, as captured in the first eight episodes of SKA Awaaz – Voices That Inspire, a podcast hosted by Harpreet Kaur.
The series opens with community leader Hernaikh Singh stressing youth empowerment and service, followed by MasterChef Singapore 2023 winner Inderpal Singh recounting his journey from accounting to culinary success. Footballer Delwinder Singh’s resilience on the pitch and go-karter Kareen Kaur’s rise in a male-dominated sport highlight the grit needed to pursue sporting dreams.
Heritage and family values take centre stage in a conversation with restaurateur Jagtar Singh and his daughter Sharon, while psychologist and motivator Darin Singhguruvar, known as @tonysthoughtoftheday, shares wisdom on parenting, identity and spiritual grounding.
Entertainment and culture shine through actor-host KP Sandhu’s behind-the-scenes stories from global stages, reminding youth to pursue dreams while staying rooted.
The eighth episode features veteran coach Jita Singh, who relives Singapore football’s golden era and his lifelong commitment to nurturing talent. He tells guest host Rasvinder Singh Bhullar how he become the youngest-ever coach of the Singapore national football team to leading the Lions to their unforgettable 1980 Malaysia Cup victory.
SKA Awaaz is a project under the Singapore Khalsa Association (SKA), supported by the Asia Samachar.
In the inaugural episode of SKA Awaaz, host Ms Harpreet Kaur welcomes Mr Hernaikh Singh, a passionate leader committed to community service and youth development. In this inspiring conversation, Mr Hernaikh shares his journey and highlights the critical role young Sikhs play in shaping the future of the Sikh community in Singapore. From leadership to service, his insights provide valuable guidance on how we can all contribute to the growth and prosperity of our community. Tune in to hear his powerful Awaaz!
In this episode of SKA Awaaz: Voices That Inspire, Harpreet Kaur speaks with Inderpal Singh, the winner of MasterChef Singapore 2023, about his bold decision to leave a stable career and follow his passion for cooking. From launching Mr Singh Eats during the COVID-19 pandemic to ultimately winning MasterChef, Inderpal shares his journey of resilience, self-discovery, and representing his Punjabi roots in the culinary world. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about chasing dreams and making an impact through food.
In this episode of SKA Awaaz – Voices That Inspire, host Harpreet Kaur catches up with Delwinder Singh, the powerhouse defender who made history as the first Singaporean to play in the Cambodian Football League. From leading Tanjong Pagar United at just 18 to pushing through injuries and setbacks, Delwinder’s journey is all about grit, resilience, and pure hard work.
We get into his love for football, scoring a spot in the national team, the challenges that tested his limits, and the mentors who shaped his career. Delwinder also shares insights for young footballers dreaming of a professional career—what it really takes, the sacrifices involved, and the mindset needed to stay in the game. And of course, we wrap things up with a rapid-fire round, where he spills on his football icons, toughest moments, and thoughts on VAR.
This is a story of never backing down, putting in the hard work, and defending the dream—on and off the pitch.
In this episode of SKA Awaaz – Voices that Inspire, we bring you an exhilarating conversation with Kareen Kaur, Singapore’s fastest female Karter, as she shares her inspiring journey from a casual go-kart experience to competing on international tracks. Joined by her parents, Deep and Kiran, Kareen opens up about the challenges of being a young female racer in a male-dominated sport, her rigorous training schedule, and how she balances academics and racing. From overcoming self-doubt to pushing boundaries on the track, Kareen’s story is one of resilience, determination, and passion. Tune in to hear how she is accelerating action for women in motorsports while staying deeply connected to her roots.
In this heartwarming episode of SKA Awaaz: Voices That Inspire, Harpreet Kaur sits down with Mr Jagtar Singh and his daughter Sharon to explore the legacy of one of Singapore’s most beloved Punjabi family-run food businesses. From humble beginnings and life-altering responsibilities to decades of service at Riverwalk Tandoor and SKA, Mr Jagtar shares how hardship shaped his discipline, generosity and deep commitment to community. Sharon offers a candid perspective on stepping into her father’s shoes—balancing tradition with innovation, and honouring the past while carving her own path. A story of sacrifice, sewa, and strong family bonds, this episode is a tribute to resilience, quiet leadership and legacy built with love.
In this soul-stirring episode of SKA Awaaz, we welcome Darin Singhguruvar – better known as Tony @tonysthoughtoftheday – a psychologist, motivational speaker, and spiritual guide whose daily reflections have inspired thousands. Through his signature blend of Sikh wisdom and psychological insight, Tony unpacks the evolving dynamics between parents and youth, especially within the Sikh and Punjabi community. With honesty and humility, he reminds us that it is never too late to press the reset button – whether in parenting, relationships, or with ourselves.
From powerful metaphors like “Speak to the prince or princess in every child, and they will answer,” to practical advice on managing household stress, setting boundaries, and communicating with love, Tony shares tools that are as spiritually rooted as they are emotionally intelligent.
He also touches on the importance of sleep, mindfulness, family unity, and how Gurbani offers different answers at every stage of life — if only we’re willing to seek.
Whether you’re a parent, youth, or educator, this episode offers a compassionate roadmap to reconnect with your loved ones and with your purpose
In this unfiltered and heartfelt episode, KP Sandhu invites us behind the scenes of his remarkable journey; from hosting the Zee Cine Awards alongside Bollywood’s biggest stars to starring in the award-winning film Shadow Assassins.
He shares how he continued performing through personal heartbreak, his guiding philosophy that “the show must go on”, and the deep spiritual connection he feels with his audience each time he takes the stage. KP also speaks directly to the youth, encouraging them to stay grounded in Punjabi culture while fearlessly pursuing unconventional dreams. Along the way, he reveals the realities of life as an entertainer, offering honest insights and invaluable advice. Filled with raw stories, unforgettable red carpet moments, and inspiring lessons on resilience, authenticity, and cultural pride; this episode is a masterclass in transforming passion into purpose.
Whether you’re chasing your own dreams or looking for a spark of motivation, KP’s words will resonate long after you’ve listened. He is in conversation with Harpreet Kaur.
This episode is also brought to you by supporting media partner Asia Samachar.
In this episode of SKA Awaaz – Voices That Inspire, our guest host Rasvinder Singh Bhullar sat down with none other than Mr Jita Singh, a stalwart in the Singapore football scene and a true pioneer of the game. From becoming the youngest-ever coach of the Singapore national football team to leading the Lions to their unforgettable 1980 Malaysia Cup victory and guiding them through multiple SEA Games campaigns, Mr Jita’s journey is nothing short of remarkable. He also shared stories from his decades of experience in football development—nurturing young talent, shaping grassroots programmes, and his continued service as Veterans Football Advisor at the Singapore Khalsa Association. This episode is packed with inspiration, lessons on resilience, leadership, and teamwork, as well as light-hearted moments from behind the scenes of Singapore football. Tune in now to hear the voice of a legend whose passion for the game and community continues to inspire generations.
This episode is also brought to you by supporting media partner Asia Samachar.
ASIA SAMACHAR is an online newspaper for Sikhs / Punjabis in Southeast Asia and beyond. You can leave your comments at our website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We will delete comments we deem offensive or potentially libelous. You can reach us via WhatsApp +6017-335-1399 or email: asia.samachar@gmail.com. For obituary announcements, click here
Sadarni Gurdial Kaur passed away peacefully on Monday, 29 September 2025, at the age of 92. An exemplary family matriarch who lived a full life right up to her final moments. She leaves behind her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Dearly missed and fondly remembered by loved ones.
Children / Spouses: Manjeet Kaur / Kuldip Singh Dr. Ranjit Singh / Pauline Jamel Awthar Singh / Pritam Kaur Harbance Kaur / Jasbir Singh Gurpal Kaur / Late Balwanter Singh
| Entry: 29 Sept 2025; Updated: 7 Oct 2025 | Source: Family
ASIA SAMACHAR is an online newspaper for Sikhs / Punjabis in Southeast Asia and beyond. You can leave your comments at our website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We will delete comments we deem offensive or potentially libelous. You can reach us via WhatsApp +6017-335-1399 or email: asia.samachar@gmail.com. For obituary announcements, click here
Aadi Khan (left) and Zara Hayat in Welcome to Punjab
By Asia Samachar | Pakistan |
Welcome to Punjab, released on Aug 14 to coincide with Pakistan’s Independence Day, has emerged as the top-grossing Punjabi-language film produced in Pakistan this year, according to local exhibitors and trade trackers.
The film’s opening week was buoyed by patriotic holiday crowds and a wide release across leading cinema chains such as Cinepax and Nueplex. Trade insiders say its performance is unmatched among Pakistani Punjabi titles released in 2025, placing it well ahead of other homegrown competitors in the regional language segment.
Directed by Shehzad Rafique, Welcome to Punjab is a family drama and romantic saga steeped in Punjabi cultural pride. Shot across the lush landscapes of rural and urban Punjab, the film follows the intertwined journeys of a young entrepreneur returning from abroad and a grassroots community organiser seeking to protect ancestral farmland.
The screenplay blends romance, comedy and social commentary, highlighting themes of diaspora identity, land stewardship and generational renewal. Audiences have praised the film’s rich Punjabi dialogues, lively folk soundtrack and sweeping cinematography that showcases the heart of Pakistani Punjab.
The rise of Welcome to Punjab underscores the growing appetite for Punjabi-language storytelling within Pakistan’s film economy, traditionally dominated by Urdu and English content. Producers note that success in the Punjabi segment depends on authentic cultural representation and family-centred narratives, as well as strategic holiday timing for releases.
While Welcome to Punjab leads the box office, a handful of other Punjabi-language productions have drawn attention this year.
One of them is Enna Nu Rehna Sehna Nai Aaunda, a cross-border collaboration with significant Pakistani creative input. The film marked actor Imran Ashraf’s Punjabi debut and delivered solid early grosses in local markets, helping to sustain interest in Punjabi-language cinema.
Action-romance Delhi Gate, scheduled for an October 2025 release, is being closely watched as the next potential breakout. Industry observers expect strong domestic appeal given its Lahore setting and ensemble cast.
ASIA SAMACHAR is an online newspaper for Sikhs / Punjabis in Southeast Asia and beyond. You can leave your comments at our website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We will delete comments we deem offensive or potentially libelous. You can reach us via WhatsApp +6017-335-1399 or email: asia.samachar@gmail.com. For obituary announcements, click here
SKA hosted its first Community Dialogue as part of the National Day Dialogue 2025 series on Sept 6, 2025 – Photo: SKA Facebook
By Asia Samachar | Singapore |
The Singapore Khalsa Association (SKA), together with community partners Young Sikh Association (YSA), the Sikh Advisory Board (SAB) and the Singapore Sikh Education Foundation (SSEF), hosted its first Community Dialogue under the National Day Dialogue 2025 series.
Themed “SG60: The Sikh Community – Yesterday | Today | Tomorrow”, the session on Sept 6 was attended by Dinesh Vasu Dash, the Minister of State for Culture, Community and Youth & Ministry of Manpower.
Participants took part in group discussions reflecting on the Sikh community’s contributions over the decades, current priorities and aspirations for the future. Their findings were later presented to the Minister of State, who also engaged directly with youths and community representatives in an open dialogue, according to an SKA update at its social media platform.
SKA said the inaugural dialogue marked a milestone in fostering youth voices, building bridges and contributing to Singapore’s journey of unity and harmony.
Minister of State Dinesh Vasu Dash at the Community Dialogue as part of the National Day Dialogue 2025 series on Sept 6, 2025 – Photo: SKA Facebook
ASIA SAMACHAR is an online newspaper for Sikhs / Punjabis in Southeast Asia and beyond. You can leave your comments at our website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We will delete comments we deem offensive or potentially libelous. You can reach us via WhatsApp +6017-335-1399 or email: asia.samachar@gmail.com. For obituary announcements, click here
| Entry: 27 Sept 2025; Updated: 4 Oct 2025 | Source: Family
ASIA SAMACHAR is an online newspaper for Sikhs / Punjabis in Southeast Asia and beyond. You can leave your comments at our website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We will delete comments we deem offensive or potentially libelous. You can reach us via WhatsApp +6017-335-1399 or email: asia.samachar@gmail.com. For obituary announcements, click here
LAST RITES 28th September 2025, Sunday 1pm: Cortège leaves from No 11, Jalan Intan Mas, Taman Jelawat, Teluk Intan 36000, Perak 2pm: Saskaar (cremation) at Sikh Crematorium Teluk Intan
PATH DA BHOG 4th October 2025, Saturday 10 am to 12 noon Gurdwara Sahib Teluk Intan
She was the heart of our family — a woman of strength, kindness, and endless love. Her gentle words, warm smile, and selfless spirit will forever remain in our hearts. She guided us with wisdom, comforted us with compassion, and gave us the purest love a mother can give.
Though she is no longer with us in person, her light will continue to shine through the values she instilled and the memories we hold dear.
We love you, Mom. You will be missed beyond measure, but never forgotten. May Waheguru bless your soul with eternal peace.
ASIA SAMACHAR is an online newspaper for Sikhs / Punjabis in Southeast Asia and beyond. You can leave your comments at our website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We will delete comments we deem offensive or potentially libelous. You can reach us via WhatsApp +6017-335-1399 or email: asia.samachar@gmail.com. For obituary announcements, click here
Satpal in action. Left: Sharing ideas at the Sarawak Energy forum, right; joining the PLUS Malaysia team in briefing DPM Ahmad Zahid Hamidi – Photo: Satpal’s Linkedin
By Asia Samachar | Malaysia |
Satpal Singh Dhillon has always shown keen interest on all areas connected to sustainability.
He was part of the conversation on how Sarawak Energy Bhd connects with communities to embed integrity across its operations.
It took place at the Sustainable and Renewable Energy Forum (SAREF) on Sept 4 in Kuching, Sarawak. The two-day event was officiated by the Sarawak Premier Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Abang Openg.
He was also in the thick of action when PLUS Malaysia — the country’s largest expressway service provider — showcased its sustainability and safety initiatives at the CARS Forum and at Khazanah Nasional Bhd’s 30th anniversary celebration.
The event drew the presence of Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan, underscoring the importance of sustainability and governance in Malaysia’s corporate agenda.
Satpal has been serving as PLUS Malaysia’s Chief Strategy & Sustainability Officer since September 2024. Before that, he was Chief Governance & Risk Officer at the same company, a position he had held since March 2020.
PLUS Malaysia operates and maintains the North-South Expressway and other key highways, making it not only the largest highway operator in the country but also one of the biggest in Southeast Asia.
Before joining PLUS, Satpal built a strong track record with Deloitte Australia, PwC Malaysia and PwC South East Asia Consulting. He also plays an industry leadership role as Deputy Chairman of the Malaysian Association of Risk & Insurance Managers (MARIM), a position he took on in January 2024.
Describing himself as a “transformist,” as per his LinkedIn profile, Satpal has advised and executed strategies for multinationals and governments in Malaysia, Singapore, Australia, Vietnam, Saudi Arabia and India. His work has spanned sectors as diverse as transportation, energy, telecommunications and media, healthcare, education and the public sector.
Satpal is the son of late engineer and entrepreneur Sardar Darshan Singh and Madam Teejwant Kaur.
(Spotted is a regular column by Asia Samachar where we throw a spotlight on active members of the Panjabi community)
ASIA SAMACHAR is an online newspaper for Sikhs / Punjabis in Southeast Asia and beyond. You can leave your comments at our website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We will delete comments we deem offensive or potentially libelous. You can reach us via WhatsApp +6017-335-1399 or email: asia.samachar@gmail.com. For obituary announcements, click here
