Malala’s example shows the triumph of will

Readers discuss Malala's life story. Other topics: snow park, costume drama and bus appeal

A reader says the movie of Malala’s inspiring life story will be a “must see”. Reem Mohammed/ The National

With regard to your story, 'Islam does believe in education', Malala tells UAE audience (October 29), I believe Malala has become the inspiration for many, young and old alike, despite her young age.

She has shown the world that nothing can stop a girl or woman from being successful in life if she has the will. Her example demonstrates that every girl has the right to an education.

This film based on her real-life story is a must-watch.

Fatima Suhail, Sharjah

Instead of the headline that was used, it should instead have read: The Taliban does not believe in education.

The headline you’ve used is misleading and, I believe, will promote Islamophobia.

Aresto Bombarda, Singapore

Alternatives to the snow park

After reading your news article, Reem Mall to be home to largest snow park (October 29), my response is that we don't need another mall.

How about a park instead, themed on the beautiful desert or a wadi? It could have a separate area for people to walk their dogs, and designated areas for skateboarding, walking, running and cycling.

There could be playgrounds for children to get out of the house and exercise, and for families to gather in the open air.

With palm trees to provide shade, it could be used all year. If plants indigenous to the region are used, it can also be an educational park to teach children about topics such as environmental issues and about the history of the UAE’s amazing medicinal plants and trees, like the Sidr tree.

This would not cost even a fraction of the snow park and would be much more eco-friendly. A snow park is just ridiculous.

Jean Francoise Ng Lewis, Dubai

Building the world’s biggest skate park instead would cost about three per cent of the price of this snow park, but it would be 100 per cent environmentally friendly – and also 1,000 per cent more people would use it.

Dave Everitt, Abu Dhabi

How big would the carbon footprint of this be? In my view, if you want snow, you should go to where it occurs naturally.

Helen Wilkie-Miln, UK

I think they should build more bridges to Reem Island before starting on this project.

Tarek Omar, Abu Dhabi

Costume drama is overblown

In response to your editorial, Masking hatred on Halloween (October 29), isn't there enough hatred in the world without stirring up more – and especially over something totally ridiculous?

Anyone who believes this garbage needs to get educated because wearing Arab costumes, Superman outfits etc has to do with watching movies and reading comics, not religion.

Christina Murphy, Abu Dhabi

It is sad to witness Muslims being targeted in all aspects, including humour and celebrations. The nose accessory offered at Walmart would not have been viewed as offensive if it hadn’t been associated with Arab sheikhs.

It is good to know that after a public outcry, the store was forced to remove the product from its shelves but it is disappointing to see Muslims – and especially Arabs – being associated with such negativity.

Humour is only good so long as it does not offend or hurt the sentiments of others.

Name withheld by request

Were does Islam come into the picture? Stereotyping Arabs on certain facial features is simplistic, possibly stupid and maybe even racist – but there is no mention of religion at all,

This whole taking of offence at this seems constructed to me. Do I, as a German, feel offended when we are stereotyped as blond-plaited, blue eyed, dirndl wearing, beer-drinking bimbos? No, I have a laugh, because I know better.

Wiltrud Matthes, Dubai

Giving buses more appeal

Your editorial, Abu Dhabi’s bus service can be improved (October 29) made for interesting reading.

However my view is that people who already drive are hardly likely to start leaving their cars at home.

Julia Igonkina Sabra, Dubai

Having to get a Hafilat card first before using the bus means it is not easy for tourists to use.

Elizabeth Day, UK

For public transport to be a real alternative, we need to have a metro system in the capital because the buses are too slow.

Indira Molina, Abu Dhabi