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ON WEDNESDAY JANUARY 27, 2021 GOLDEN TRIBUTE ...

No. 7710 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195) www.thesundaily.my T. Suresh Kumar, a member of
the Thanneermalai Shree

Balathandayuthspani temple
committee, preparing a

chariot dedicated to Lord
Murugan for a procession

tomorrow in George
Story on Town, Penang. theSun

— wishes everyone a

page 5 safe and meaningful
Thaipusam.

– MASRY CHE ANI/THESUN

Not anytime soon

█ BY NICOLAS ANIL oEven with Covid vaccines available, He added that virus mutations could also
[email protected] Malaysians advised to brace for protracted pose a problem to vaccines, such as the
effects of pandemic years down the road newer variants from the United Kingdom,
PETALING JAYA: We may have to live South Africa and Brazil.
with the effects of Covid-19 for some Malaysians must adhere to
years to come, especially in Malaysia, non-pharmaceutical interventions, even if
experts have warned. there is a good supply of vaccines.
Singapore Education Minister Lawrence Awang Bulgiba said this must be strictly
Wong, who is part of the city state’s Covid followed for the next two years, depending on
multi-ministry task force, said wearing of face Science, Technology and Innovation struggling to get vaccines manufactured fast other factors such as pandemic fatigue and
masks and avoiding crowds could continue Ministry’s Independent Covid-19 Vaccination enough. human behaviour.
until next year, and getting the world Advisory Committee, pointed out that the The country is expected to start its
vaccinated will take time and has its own pandemic is rooted for the foreseeable future, Going by projections based on some states vaccination programme by the end of next
challenges. even with vaccines available. and large clusters, Awang Bulgiba said the month, with 27 million Malaysians expected
country needs a vaccination target of 80%, to be vaccinated by the first
Two experts theSun spoke to agreed with “Even if we have effective vaccines, we including vaccinating children under the age quarter of next year.
Wong, who said it may take four to five years need to get enough of them. Supply issues are of 16. Chairman of the Asli Turn to
before the world can expect a post-Covid reportedly causing problems even for Centre for Public Policy, Tan
normal. countries which can pay for them,” Awang “To vaccinate that many people, it would Sri Ramon Navaratnam, said —
Bulgiba told theSun. take between 500 and 1,000 vaccinations
Epidemiologist Prof Datuk Dr Awang centres working full-time for 300 to 500 page 3
Bulgiba Awang Mahmud, who is head of the He said pharmaceutical companies are working days to accomplish.”
the virus has become another

2 theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | JANUARY 27, 2021
NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS

Don’t go overboard on chocolates

o Over-consumption of the accounted for 35% of its sales in Southeast Asia Clever marketing also helps to drive sales. risk of heart disease and that women who eat
sweet treat can be detrimental in 2018. “We are told that chocolates help to ease mental chocolates are less likely to suffer from strokes.
to health, say nutritionists stress, improve mood, reduce headaches and
When it comes to food, Malaysians are an migraines, bring happiness and a sense of This, Anto Cordelia said, has been attributed
█ BY SHIVANI SUPRAMANI innovative lot. Who else would think of coating satisfaction.” to the presence of bio-active ingredients called
[email protected] the simple pisang goreng, or banana fritters, flavanols found in cocoa.
PETALING JAYA: Malaysians’ love for with chocolate? Besides, she said, a deficiency in magnesium
chocolates is unrivalled, at least in Southeast could also lead to a craving for chocolates, and However, what is not stated is that the
Asia. However, nutritionists warn that over- But, according to nutritionist Dr Divya that is sometimes misinterpreted as a sweet subjects of those studies were getting an
consumption can be detrimental to health. Vanoh of Universiti Sains Malaysia in Kubang tooth. “This deficiency is common among average of 670mg of flavanols each, achievable
Kerian, chocolate is an energy-dense food with women. The symptoms are migraine, only by consuming 12 standard 100g bars of
Most chocolates have high fat and sugar a high level of saturated fat and sugar, which irritability, anxiety, extreme fatigue, insomnia dark chocolate or 50 regular 100g bars of milk
content, and over-indulgence can lead to contributes to weight gain. and a lack of concentration.” chocolate per day, a habit that will undoubtedly
obesity, high blood pressure, coronary artery lead to adverse side effects.
diseases and diabetes. “Chocolates also contain caffeine that may Anto Cordelia said taking magnesium
cause insomnia, palpitation, dizziness and supplements can curb such symptoms. The “It takes 90 minutes of cycling and walking to
A recent survey by iPrice, an online anxiety. In individuals who are sensitive to more attractive option is to eat dark chocolates, burn off the calories from consuming 100g of
shopping aggregator, reveals that 21.8% of caffeine, it causes heartburn and acid reflux,” which is rich in magnesium. dark chocolate. Too much chocolate also
Malaysians search for information about Divya told theSun. causes diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and dental
chocolates on Google, ahead of Singapore at However, she warned, many journals and decay,” Divya pointed out.
19.3% and the Philippines at 18.8%. Another nutritionist, Dr Anto Cordelia articles that promote the consumption of
Dhanapal of Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman in chocolates and cocoa products for health must Of course there is no need to swear off
If this data is not convincing enough, Kampar, said the consumption of sugary foods be taken with a pinch of salt. chocolates altogether. As in most things,
Mondel z International, a major confectionery including chocolates, is relatively high among moderate consumption can be beneficial.
based in Chicago, revealed that Malaysia the young. “Most of these studies are funded by
chocolate manufacturers that have poured A meta-analysis from 2018 revealed that an
Chocolates are a favourite option for gifts, millions of dollars into funding nutrition intake of 30g of dark chocolate per day for four
especially for life’s milestones such as birthdays, science projects to possibly benefit their weeks has a favourable effect on body mass
anniversaries or graduations. products.” index and weight.

The easy availability of chocolates is another For instance, a research article from last year “Dark chocolates contain many health
factor that feeds this indulgence, Anto Cordelia stated that consuming chocolates reduces the benefits too, but don’t take more than 10g per
noted. day,” Anto Cordelia advised.

Saaidah Puteh, 39, a 25,000 vendors to
single mother, take part in E-Bazaar
overseeing her
seven school-going SHAH ALAM: The Selangor government is
children learning expecting 25,000 micro, small and medium
using the PdPR enterprises, including 12,500 new sellers, to join
method, with the the Selangor Chinese New Year E-Bazaar from
help of two mobile Feb 1 to March 7.
phones in Alor Star.
– BERNAMAPIX Selangor state executive councillor for
investment, industry and commerce and small
‘Give teachers training, time to adapt to PdPR’ and medium enterprises (SME) Datuk Teng
Chang Khim said in conjunction with the
KUALA LUMPUR: Barely a week after classes Consultative Council president Assoc Prof processes to teachers.” campaign, the state government will subsidise
started, voices of dissatisfaction arose from Datuk Dr Mohd Ali Hassan said relevant He said the training could be done online RM2 million in the form of vouchers for
some parents unhappy with the training should be introduced for teachers to purchases on e-commerce shopping platforms
implementation of Home-based Teaching expose them to PdPR methods and processes. or face-to-face by adhering to strict standard Shopee and Lazada.
and Learning (PdPR). operating procedures, to enable teachers to
“As PdPR is relatively new, all parties must teach confidently, Bernama reported. He said the campaign will provide a safe
They claimed that teachers are not understand the current situation and provide online platform for consumers to buy various
adequately equipped to teach using the PdPR adequate space and opportunities for He added that some of the basic goods at reasonable prices, just like the
approach, disrupting the learning process. teachers to become truly skilled in the constraints the country still faces should also previous Selangor E-Bazaars.
method. be addressed. Among them are inadequate
However, prominent figures in the internet coverage especially in rural and “This campaign also aims to help SME and
education industry are of the view that “It is proposed that the Ministry of remote areas, lack of adequate devices and micro-businesses digitalise their businesses to
teachers should be given space and Education should employ one or two other equipment, systematic e-textbook continue to survive in the challenging
opportunity to adapt to the new approach. educators who are experts in PdPR, either materials, local technical assistance as well as economic situation caused by the Covid-19
local or from abroad, to teach the method and proper monitoring and evaluation, he said. pandemic,” he said yesterday.
National Parent-Teacher Associations
Teng said Selangor entrepreneurs who are
Bumi firms account for 60% of AP holders importing meat interested in participating in the campaign can
register at www.sitec.com.my or via the Lazada
KUALA LANGAT: About 60% of the he told reporters after a working visit to the “The case related to the meat AP is being or Shopee portal.
approved permit (AP) holders involved in area farmers’ organisation in Kuala Langat investigated by several agencies including
meat importing are bumiputra companies, yesterday. the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission, The success of the two Selangor E-Bazaar
said Agriculture and Food Industries Minister police, Customs Department and the campaigns last year proves that the state
Datuk Seri Dr Ronald Kiandee. He was commenting on claims made by Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumer government’s digital economy agenda is
former deputy minister of agriculture and Affairs. helping traders generate more income online.
He said among bumiputra AP holders are agro-based industry Datuk Seri Tajuddin
Ramly Food Processing Sdn Bhd and Darabif Abdul Rahman in the media recently that “If there is a violation of AP conditions, Total lockdown bad
Meat Company, which are capable of only 10% of AP holders importing meat are Mafi will take stern action,” he said. for economy: Expert
importing large quantities of meat. bumiputra companies.
It was reported that Mafi was ready to KUALA LUMPUR: It is crucial for Malaysia to
“In terms of the quantity of (imported Commenting on AP holders blacklisted revoke the APs of companies found to be contain the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic in
meat), it depends on the ability of a for violating permit conditions, Kiandee said involved in the frozen meat distribution the next few weeks to minimise its impact on
company. These two companies are able to the Ministry of Agriculture and Food cartel without a halal certificate and would the economy.
import meat in large quantities and are able Industries (Mafi) is still awaiting the results of not tolerate any ministry staff found involved
to compete with non-bumiputra companies,” the investigation from relevant agencies. in the issue. – Bernama A total economic lockdown should be the
last resort, said Putra Business School business
development manager Assoc Prof Dr Ahmed
Razman Abdul Latiff.

“There will be major repercussions on the
economy, as there will be less liquidity in the
market due to fewer transactions among
businesses and the people.”

In an interview on Bernama TV’s Midday
Update programme yesterday, he noted that
the government has to walk a fine line between
addressing the health crisis and sustaining and
ensuring positive economic growth this year.

“I still feel that there is room in terms of the
Ministry of Health’s capacity to deal with the
rising Covid-19 cases.”

He said the continuous allocation of fiscal
stimulus for targeted segments would help
cushion the impact of economic slowdown due
to the coronavirus outbreak.

“We would like to have a V-shaped economic
recovery (for 2021), but with the rising number
of new Covid-19 cases every day, it is going to
look like a U-shaped recovery.”

3theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | JANUARY 27, 2021
NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS

TELLING IT AS IT IS

Says ...

Graphics_1 > Graphics Logos >The Sun Masthead .ai

Hand that rocks the cradle is the hand that rules the world

█ BY EDDIE HOO in the country and are doing a great As pointed out by former that studies suggest listed from going from playing the key role
WOMEN are generally considered job. Guyanese Minister of Trade, Tourism companies with a greater number of in families to administrating big
the primary caretakers of the family, and Industry Geoffrey Da Silva, the women in decision-making corporations, states and the country?
yet only 21 countries have them as Studies have shown that generally, eight top least corrupt countries in positions perform better in terms of
heads of state or government. women outscore men in most areas the world - Austria, Denmark, ethics, corruption levels and Much lies in the structure of our
of emotional intelligence with Finland, Germany, Iceland, New perform better financially. society, which is deeply rooted in the
Of the 195 countries in the world, advantages such as the ability to Zealand, Norway and Switzerland - patriarchal culture, and thus male
119 have never had a woman leader. multitask, better adaptability, have a female president or prime This indicates that increasing the dominance despite the fact that
smoother communication, higher minister, or at least 40% female share of women in male-dominated women have a bigger role in
Malaysia is one of them, but perseverance, deeper understanding Cabinet ministers and at least 38% work places or public institutions nurturing the next generation than
former prime minister Tun Dr … and on top of all, greater humility. female members of Parliament. could disrupt embedded corruption, men.
Mahathir Mohamad has expressed it added.
confidence that our women can rise These edges could translate into He also highlighted the fact that For us to move beyond that, there
to the highest office in the country’s more profound insights, diligent three of the most corrupt countries - The Journal of Economic is a need for a deeper understanding
administration. planning and definite execution of Bangladesh, Myanmar and Togo - are Behaviour and Organisation finds that our gender is a physical
work plans since there is no gender led by women but they have a low that in a cross-country analysis of manifestation of whether the
However, he foresees a long- difference in intelligence. representation of women in their over 125 countries, corruption is masculine or the feminine is more
drawn process before this becomes a Cabinets and Parliaments. lower in countries where a greater enhanced in us as much as it is a
reality. He rightly points out that Then there is a perception that share of parliamentarians are biological feature.
women are already holding very high women are more inherently less A report by the United Nations women.
positions with heavy responsibilities corrupt, although this has been Office on Drugs and Crimes stated Or we merely just stop judging
widely debated. What stands in the way of women capabilities according to gender.

Here one moment, gone the next

█ BY SHIVANI SUPRAMANI o A frontliner’s first-hand account on how wife of his current condition,” he said. Minutes later, he suddenly flatlined
[email protected] Covid-19 snuffed out a life right under his nose By doing so, the frontliner was and my team and I, dressed from
PETALING JAYA: For Covid-19 head-to-toe in full personal
frontliner Ahmad, as he wished to be would need to be closely monitored. “While waiting to be transferred, I shocked to find that the wife was protective equipment sprung into
known, being part of the Covid-19 From his physical appearance, no asked him to inform his family unaware of Mr A’s admission to the action to try to resuscitate him using
team left an unforgettable mark on one would have ever assumed that members regarding his current hospital. chest compression resuscitation
him. day would be his last,” Ahmad said. condition. However, he refused as he (CPR).
did not want to alarm his family,” he “I did my best to explain his
“I have encountered multiple As he recalled, Mr A was still able recalled. current condition to his wife and “Just like any medical frontliner,
cases involving this virus. However, to communicate normally and was asked her to pray for him; to pray that our aim was to get his heart beating
one particular case had a significant mobile. Ahmad said he had offered to help her husband would somehow again like it was minutes ago. We
impact on me; reminding me that this inform Mr A’s family members but recover. Then I passed the phone to worked hard so he could go home to
invisible enemy is not to be Things took a sharp turn at 4pm the latter kept assuring Ahmad that him. I still remember him assuring his wife. After an hour of continuous
underestimated,” Ahmad said. when he started to complain about a he was doing absolutely fine and was her over the phone, saying ‘You need CPR, we lost him,” Ahmad said.
mild shortness of breath after his very confident that nothing serious not worry, I am doing fine. Make sure
Relating his experience via a toilet break. would happen to him. to take care of yourself, dear. I will be He was left speechless and
statement, Ahmad said while back home soon’ while feeling shocked at how a microscopic being
working the evening shift at the male “After performing an examination Harking back to that day, Ahmad breathless at the same time,” he said. could cause such damage and in the
ward of a hospital last March, he on Mr A, I decided it would be best to said they were able to reach the ICU end take away one’s life.
came across 67-year-old Mr A, who transfer him to the intensive care unit room uneventfully, but despite that, After his phone call ended, Mr A
was admitted in the morning with an (ICU). I remember him being very Mr A had already begun to look more turned to Ahmad and asked whether “I kept pondering how I was going
underlying heart disease due to cooperative, polite and decent with and more lethargic. there was a chance for him to return to break the news to his wife. It
Covid-19 infection. everyone. He was also well informed home to his family later to which baffled me that this virus could take
of the plan and gave his full “Very suddenly, he passed me his Ahmad could only nod in response. one’s life in the blink of an eye,
“I remember a colleague telling cooperation to ease the process. phone and asked me to inform his especially those who have chronic
me Mr A had complained about slight “I was not certain what fate held illnesses. We need to break the chain
lethargy that morning and that he for this man so I only nodded at his of infection. I know we can make a
desperate question. difference!”

“He was asked to rest and he did.

Help ensure everyone does not go hungry: Ramon BRIEFS TEMPORARY CONTRA
FLOW ON NSE
long-term disease, like From the people to follow the rules. vaccines are important, so is the “Something like a national
malaria and influenza. front If we do not follow it way of living in the new norm. donation drive should be initiated KUALA LUMPUR: Temporary bound
page thoroughly, we will pay the by the people but subsidised and closure and contra flow have been
“Nobody can say how price. It will take the will of He also called on Malaysians to implemented through the activated at Km307-Km309 on the
long it will last. It all the people to overcome it.” unite and help each other by government. Daily food for North-South Expressway between
depends on us. We need the Ramon added that while ensuring everyone does not go survival is not expensive.” Sungai Besi Toll Plaza and the UPM
cooperation and dedication of hungry. Interchange from 10pm until 5am
daily for eight days until Feb 2. PLUS
SAFETY Malaysia Berhad (PLUS) in a
SPRAY ... A statement yesterday said it was to
Fire and Rescue facilitate the smooth construction of
Department a pedestrian overhead bridge by MRT
personnel project contractor. These closures will
sprays be implemented in stages where
disinfectant on only one bound closure will be
a chair during implemented at one time. “As such,
the public all highway customers are strongly
sanitation advised to plan their journey using
operations at the PLUS App and check the latest
the USJ police traffic conditions via CCTV feeds or
station in use the SOS button in the app to
Subang Jaya, request for help from PLUSRonda
Selangor team,” it said.
yesterday .
MORE PEOPLE BUYING
HOUSES IN OUTSKIRTS
KUALA LUMPUR: More and more
people are seeking houses in the
outskirts, lowering demand and
residential property prices in the
cities, according to iProperty.com.my.
Its spokesman and REA Group Asia
general manager (Customer Data
Solutions) Premendran
Pathmanathan, citing the property
portal’s 2020 Property Demand
Analytics, said Shah Alam and
Seremban recorded positive demand
of 1.7% and 0.9% respectively. On the
other hand, housing demand in
Kuala Lumpur City Centre contracted
by 8.9% with 11% capital growth
decline.

4 theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | JANUARY 27, 2021
NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS

Paying it forward by helping others

o Syrian refugee hit by Covid pandemic
overwhelmed by kindness shown by
generous Malaysians during time of need

█ BY ALISHA NUR MOHD NOOR
[email protected]

PETALING JAYA: “I cannot do all the good Wael (left) “I even had to go through the horrifying “I remember there were many charity
that the world needs but the world needs all distributing food to experience of watching my relatives being missions helping my fellow Syrian brothers
the good that I can do.” These are the words of the homeless in shot dead during the strife there,” he added. and sisters back in Syria.”
a Syrian refugee who calls Malaysia home. Kuala Lumpur.
– AMIRUL SYAFIQ After his family escaped to Lebanon, he Wael would close his shop every Friday to
For Wael Abdulhadi Al Kanaan, staying in /THESUN decided to pave his own future and came to prepare and distribute shawarma kebab to
Malaysia has allowed him to repay the forever,” he said. Malaysia on his own to start a new life. the homeless, orphanages, refugees and other
country for the kindness shown to him. less fortunate individuals.
Wael and his wife then opened a restaurant “It was indeed the most difficult time for us
“I don’t want anyone to go through what I selling their signature shawarma kebab and in our home country. They would usually prepare between 350
went through in the past, and I wish to do other Arabic food. and 450 kebabs and about 100 to 350 packets
good deeds in this country,” said Wael, who “It was also tough when I first arrived in of mandi (Arabic rice) for distribution.
has been residing here for nearly seven years. “We decided to do good deeds too by Malaysia as I had little to no money to survive.
giving food to the less fortunate after we A video showing Wael’s good deeds went
Wael, 32, who is married to a Malaysian, opened another shop in Jalan Ipoh in Kuala “But the longer I stayed here, the more I viral on social media this month, resulting in
started a personal initiative three months ago Lumpur at then end of last year. realised that Malaysians are very generous, more Malaysians joining the cause.
to prepare food and distribute it to the less helpful and kind and they helped me a lot.
fortunate. “But what I went through here did not even
come close to the terrible experience I had in
It all started when they had to shut down my home country,” he told theSun.
their mini market that sold Middle Eastern
products, as business was not improving due “When I was in Syria, I was used to be
to the Covid-19 pandemic. hungry all the time.

He recalled that after the shop in Sentul,
Kuala Lumpur was closed, they were
cash-strapped and were in dire straits.

“We did not expect our business, which we
started early last year, would go bankrupt
months after the implementation of the
movement control order (MCO),” he said.

“We went through hard times and there
were days when we had little money for food.

“However, good samaritans came to our
aid and offered us food.

“This act of kindness changed our lives

UPDATE Total Glove maker to launch online
con rmed cases recruitment drive
As of noon yesterday
190,434 █ BY HAKEM HASSAN trainees and 700 for experienced Malaysian
[email protected] employees.
Total active cases Total recoveries Death toll PETALING JAYA: Top Glove will go on a
massive online recruitment drive to take in The positions range from executive to
40,574 149,160 700 9,000 Malaysian workers, as the present non-executive levels.
situation does not allow the company to
Including conduct interviews at its headquarters in Shah “This has been very well received by
Alam. job-seekers who actively participated in our
New cases UPDATETotal in ICU New recoveries New fatalities virtual career fair,” a spokesman told theSun
The biggest glove maker in the country yesterday.
3,585 280 4,076 11 needs to boost its workforce to meet global
demand for its products, which is expected to “Our initiative to provide Malaysians with
Breakdown by state grow between 15% and 25% annually over the gainful employment was also lauded by the
next two to three years. government.”
2 PERLIS
Its other objective is to narrow the nation’s Other fairs will also be held throughout the
unemployment rate as many people have lost year every third Saturday of the month, with the
their jobs due to the Covid-19 pandemic. next virtual fair set on Feb 20.

“We hope that this year-long recruitment Top Glove is expecting to fill these vacancies
drive will help some of these job-seekers find a throughout 2021 as it invested RM2 billion last
career with a well established Malaysian brand year, with plans to invest a further RM10 billion
with global presence,” said Top Glove managing by 2025.
director Datuk Lee Kim Meow.
“This increases our production capacity,
The company seeks to fill 4,000 vacancies for from about 100 billion pieces of gloves per year
local workers, another 2,300 for university and to 200 billion pieces per year by 2025,” the
vocational fresh graduates, 2,000 for interns and spokesman said.

A total of 7,000 Malaysians were hired last
year as the company saw a staff growth rate of
about 26% over the years.

88 KEDAH KELANTAN 76 CallAs of noon to support blind massage therapists
104 PENANG TERENGGANU 76
yesterday
58 PERAK PAHANG 15
1 LABUAN █ BY ELLY FAZANIZA Each food package costs about RM125, that
1,295 SELANGOR N.SEMBILAN 129 SARAWAK 205 [email protected] comprised dry food such as rice, noodles, oil
PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian Association and milk. They are given to the therapists, who
610 K. LUMPUR SABAH 303 for the Blind (MAB) is appealing to the public to are mostly relying on their RM450 monthly
15 PUTRAJAYA support its programme to help some 3,000 blind welfare aid.
92 MALACCA massage therapists who have lost their source of
516 JOHOR income due to the Covid-19 pandemic. “Before the MCO, the therapists could earn
between RM1,600 and RM3,000 a month.
Its chief executive officer George Thomas
said MAB and the Asia School of Business have “The restriction on movement has
launched a food basket aid for the community. hampered their business. We hope that with the
food basket, it would help sustain them.”
“So far, we have raised about RM100,000,”
Thomas told theSun yesterday. There are 50,214 blind people registered
with the Welfare Department.
“During the first movement control order
(MCO) in March last year, we reached out to MAB can be reached at
2,150 families and distributed 12,000 packed [email protected]. Donors can contribute
meals.” through Maybank under the Malaysian
Association for the Blind account number
5140-5763-7836.

5theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | JANUARY 27, 2021
NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS

Cops: Beware of ‘friends’ calling for cash

o Scammers using impersonation tactics via through WhatsApp, claiming they which were not under the names of before doing anything that could
telephone to dupe unsuspecting victims were in financial dire straits and the “friends or relatives”, after which cause them to lose money.
needed funds. the victims would make cash
█ BY CHARLES RAMENDRAN Police have received 78 reports deposits or online transfers. “These scammers do not target a
[email protected] since early this month from victims “The scammers would use an particular group of people but attempt
PETALING JAYA: It would pay to take who claimed to have lost between unknown phone number, claiming He said the victims learnt that they to fleece those who are unaware of
heed and be cautious the next time RM1,000 and RM250,000 to they had lost their mobile phone. The had been fleeced after calling to these new scam tactics.”
you receive a call or text message scammers. victims were further convinced by the check on those “friends or relatives”
from a relative or friend desperately ruse as the scammers used photos of on their actual phone numbers, and Nik Ezanee said when in doubt,
wanting to borrow money. Petaling Jaya police chief ACP Nik those they were impersonating as found that they had never lost their the public can call the district police
Ezanee Mohd Faisal said yesterday their profile photo in the app. mobile phones or sought cash. headquarters at 03-7966 2222.
It could possibly be a phone the victims who lodged the reports
scammer impersonating them. alleged that they had received “Furthermore, the scammers had “With the country undergoing They can also check with
messages from a “friend or relative” managed to closely imitate the voices issues due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the commercial crimes
of the friends and relatives of the many are trying to make easy money. investigation department at
victims.” https://ccid.rmp.gov.my/semakmul/
“We advise the public not to be on the status of bank accounts and
Nik Ezanee said the scammers taken in by calls from unknown telephone numbers given by
would send bank account numbers, numbers, and to check thoroughly scammers to see if it is blacklisted.

‘Lodge report within 24 hours of accident’ Observe SOP during
Thaipusam, public told
KUALA LUMPUR: Being involved in a road Road Transport Act 1987 (Act 333) if a police “In cases involving fatalities and injuries, it
accident can be frustrating as we have to report is lodged more than 24 hours from the is advisable not to sign any document by any KUALA LUMPUR: Police issued a reminder
juggle between vehicle damage and the next time of accident without valid reason, agent or touts at hospitals, or at the scene of yesterday that only 10 people, comprising
course of action. regardless of the manner of settlement,” an accident, without first consulting a lawyer,” temple officials and workers, are allowed to
he said. he added. accompany a Thaipusam chariot.
Lawyer Prakash Babu Balakrishnan
advises motorists not to panic when caught in While it is prudent for the matter to be Another lawyer, Patwant Singh Sohanpal, Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Abdul
such a situation. The most important thing to taken to the authorities, Prakash said an is of the view that when two or more vehicles Hamid Bador said the chariot will leave the Sri
do is to lodge a police report at the nearest amicable settlement on the spot is an option are involved in an accident without any injury Maha Mariamman Temple on Jalan Tun H.S. Lee
police station. for minor accidents. to persons, it is categorised as property for the Sri Subramaniaswamy Temple at Batu
damage collisions. Caves before returning to Sri Maha Mariamman
If both parties cannot reach an immediate He said once a report is lodged, the IO will Temple on Friday. No processions, spectators or
settlement they should remain at the scene of investigate and decide which party is at fault, “All parties should first move their vehicles accompanying music will be allowed throughout
the accident, he said. and a traffic summons will be issued. to the left side of the road for safety and (to the journey.
avoid) causing road congestion.
“They can wait until the arrival of the traffic “The classification and punishment of a Abdul Hamid said businesses are also
investigation officer (IO), depending on the case will be decided by the IO upon the “Motorists should then safely exit their prohibited from operating along the route,
severity of the accident, who will then decide outcome of the investigation, and would vehicles and inspect the damage as well as except those with permission from the local
on the next course of action,” he said. usually be under but not limited to Act 333.” record details of the accident, ranging from council. Police will conduct surveillance and
the condition of the vehicles, registration stern action will be taken against those flouting
Prakash told Bernama that it is advisable Prakash also warned against dealing with numbers and motorists’ particulars,” he said, the standard operating procedures.
for a person involved in any road accident to independent towing agents, who usually are adding that it was to ensure there is
lodge a report. the first at the scene, without first verifying substantial proof at hand.
with the driver’s insurance company.
“It is an offence under Section 52(2) of the

Court to decide on IN CHAINS ... Three members of a drug syndicate being led away by police after they were Prison official denies
recusing prosecutor charged in a magistrate’s court in Johor Baru yesterday for drug trafficking. – BERNAMAPIX accepting bribe

KUALA LUMPUR: Datuk Seri Najib ALOR STAR: An assistant prison
Razak’s bid to disqualify Datuk Seri Gopal superintendent pleaded not guilty at a sessions
Sri Ram as prosecutor in the 1Malaysia court yesterday to four counts of soliciting and
Development Berhad (1MDB) audit report accepting bribes five years ago.
tampering case will be heard today at the
High Court as scheduled. Zaharil Effendy Zaharudin, 38, claimed trial
after the charges were read out before judge
On Jan 12, the Federal Court chief Murtazadi Amran.
registrar’s office said in a statement that all
hearings of criminal cases in open On the first count, he was charged with
court, scheduled for Jan 13 until Jan 26, soliciting RM20,000 from Saadin Ayub as
were postponed following the inducement to change the charge from Section
reimplementation of the movement 39B of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 to a lighter
control order (MCO). section, against Mohd Faizal Saidin at Jalan
Pantai Cenang in Langkawi on May 12, 2016.
This resulted in high-profile trials,
including that of Najib and his former On the second and third counts, he was
deputy Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, charged with receiving bribes of RM1,300 and
being postponed as their previously RM700 from Saidin as inducement for the same
scheduled trial dates fell within the MCO purpose, through the bank account of his sister-
period. in-law Noor Shahida Ghazali at Maybank
Simpang Kuala in Kota Star on May 22 and May
On Jan 20, Chief Justice Tun Tengku 23, 2016.
Maimun Tuan Mat issued a directive that
despite the current enforcement of the Zaharil Effendy was also charged with
MCO, all criminal proceedings, including receiving a bribe amounting to RM1,000 via his
public interest cases such as corruption wife Noor Shahneem Ghazali’s bank account
and commercial crime, would continue in from Saidin for the same purpose at the same
open court effective Jan 27. bank on July 25, 2016. – Bernama

Based on the Kehakiman website, Bid to bring in illegal
Najib’s 1MDB audit report tampering frozen chicken foiled
hearing before Justice Mohamed Zaini
Mazlan is set for today at 9.30am. ALOR STAR: The Malaysian Quarantine and
Inspection Services Department (Maqis) has
Deputy public prosecutor (DPP) foiled an attempt to bring in frozen chicken
Mohamad Mustaffa P. Kunyalam, when worth RM495,608, which failed to meet import
contacted, confirmed the matter. permit requirements at the Bukit Kayu Hitam
Immigration, Customs, Quarantine and
“The court will hear Datuk Seri Najib’s Security Complex.
application to disqualify senior DPP Datuk
Seri Gopal Sri Ram as prosecutor in the Kedah Maqis director Lily Rosalind Paul said
trial. DPP Ahmad Akram Gharib will be a routine inspection of a container lorry led to
leading the prosecution,” he said. the discovery of 5,161 boxes, containing frozen
chicken weighing 61,932kg.
On June 12 last year, Najib filed an
application to recuse Sri Ram, supported “The frozen chicken from Thailand did not
by two affidavits, one filed by Najib and the comply with import requirements and is
other by former attorney-general Tan Sri believed to have come from an unlicenced
Mohamed Apandi Ali. slaughterhouse,” she said in a statement
yesterday.
Najib and former 1MDB chief executive
officer Arul Kanda Kandasamy are on trial The lorry driver could not produce an import
over 1MDB audit report tampering charges. permit or documents for the goods, she added.
– Bernama
The Pekan member of Parliment is
charged with using his position to order
amendments to the 1MDB final audit
report before it was presented to the Public
Accounts Committee. – Bernama

6 theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | JANUARY 27, 2021 BRIEFS RUSSIA: U.S. MUST FIRST
NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS RETURN TO IRAN NUKE DEAL

Clashes erupt as Indian MOSCOW: Russia said yesterday that the
farmers storm Red Fort United States must lift sanctions against
Tehran and comply with the Iran nuclear
o Thousands protest against new agriculture laws used ropes to tear down roadblocks, forcing deal as a condition for the Islamic republic
constables in riot gear to give way, to rejoin the accord. Foreign minister
NEW DELHI: Thousands of Indian farmers, policemen and three protesters injured at witnesses said. Sergei Lavrov said after talks with his
protesting against agricultural reforms, the Red Fort, from whose ramparts Modi Iranian counterpart that he hoped that
breached barricades yesterday to enter the delivers an annual speech. A second group rode tractors to get to a “the U.S. returns to full compliance with
historic Red Fort complex in the capital and key central traffic junction, also breaching the corresponding Security Council
hoist flags after clashing with police, who Some of those who scaled its walls barricades after similar clashes with police. resolution, creating conditions for Iran to
fired tear gas to scatter them. carried ceremonial swords. meet its obligations under the nuclear
Domestic television channels showed deal”. The Iran nuclear deal was agreed in
Growers, angered by laws they say help The disorderly scenes and lingering images of several bloodied protesters. 2015 between Iran, the U.S., China, Russia,
large, private buyers at the expense of swirls of gas on the outskirts of the capital Britain, France and Germany. It offered
producers, have camped outside New Delhi were a sharp contrast with televised images Protest organiser Samyukt Kisan Morcha sanctions relief in exchange for curbs on
for almost two months, posing one of the of the serried precision of military marchers said the groups swerving from set routes did Tehran’s nuclear ambitions and guarantees
biggest challenges to Prime Minister in an annual Republic Day parade in the city not represent the majority of farmers. it would not seek an atomic bomb. – AFP
Narendra Modi since he came to power in centre.
2014. Earlier, tens of thousands of bearded and ITALIAN PRIME MINISTER
“Modi will hear us now, he will have to turbaned farmers, many bundled against TENDERS RESIGNATION
The body of one protester draped in an hear us now,” said Sukhdev Singh, 55, a the winter cold, drove a convoy of tractors
Indian tricolour lay in a central Delhi street farmer from the northern state of Punjab, festooned with flags along the city fringe. ROME: Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe
after the tractor he rode overturned in one of who was among hundreds of protesters, Conte submitted his resignation yesterday
the clashes, killing him, witness Vishu Arora some on horseback, who broke away from a Agriculture employs about half of India’s to President Sergio Mattarella in a bid to
said. key route of a tractor convoy by protesters. population of 1.3 billion, and unrest among form a new, stronger government. The
an estimated 150 million landowning president accepted the resignation and
“He died right there.” From the city’s north they headed farmers worries the government. “reserves the right to decide (what to do
Another witness saw at least five towards the government buildings in its next) and invited the government to stay
centre. They commandeered cranes and Nine rounds of talks with farmers’ unions in office in a caretaker capacity”,
have failed to end the protests, as farm Mattarella’s office said. Mattarella, the
leaders rejected the government’s offer to ultimate arbiter of Italian political crises,
delay the laws for 18 months, making a push said he would start a round of discussions
for repeal instead. – Reuters with party leaders on the way forward
today. Talks are expected to last until
Farmers clog up a highway during a ‘tractor rally’ in New Delhi yesterday. – AFPPIX tomorrow. Conte is expected to seek a new
mandate for what would be his third
Secretive Vietnam congress begins consecutive government in three years,
but this depends on his ability to expand
HANOI: Vietnam’s secretive, twice-a-decade expected to continue holding both leadership is Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc, who his parliamentary majority. – AFP
political transition kicked off yesterday, with posts simultaneously. has focused on the country’s economic
the Communist Party poised to select its growth and integration, securing a number of TORNADO LEAVES SEVERAL
future leaders who will have to contend with But another stint in the top job for international trade deals. INJURED IN ALABAMA
an increasingly assertive China and the 76-year-old pro-China conservative
ramped-up trade tensions with the U.S. would be a boost for his high-profile The 66-year-old – tipped by analysts to WASHINGTON: A tornado has left several
anti-corruption campaign that has swept now take the presidency – has also steered the people critically injured and serious
The party general secretary, as well as through the party, police and armed forces. country’s robust response to the coronavirus damage in Alabama, U.S. media said
three other key leadership “pillars”, are up for pandemic. yesterday. The storm, which hit the town of
grabs at the congress in Hanoi, which is taking “In the last five years there’s been a Fultondale on Monday night, caused
place largely behind closed doors, and will recognisable increase in the repressiveness of Regardless of who is chosen, the world “significant damage”, the National Weather
run until Feb 2. the regime,” Jonathan London, a Vietnam should not expect major policy changes, said Service tweeted. At least five people have
expert at the Leiden Institute of Area Studies Murray Hiebert of the Southeast Asia been hospitalised with critical injuries,
The lead-up to the congress has been in the Netherlands, said. Programme at the Centre for Strategic and Fultondale police chief D.P. Smith told local
marked by a relentless crackdown on dissent, International Studies in Washington. news media AL.com. “It looks like a bomb
according to rights groups, which say “(This) reflects Trong’s agenda of went off,“ local pastor’s son Sam Moerbe,
repression has escalated under the current disciplining the party and the country’s “I think they are roughly going to continue 18, told the outlet. Pictures on social media
leadership. population more broadly”. with economic opening – looking for more showed homes and buildings reduced to
foreign, economic partners – and they’re splinters, wrecked cars and blocked roads.
Nguyen Phu Trong, the Communist Party Roads were sealed off early yesterday going to try to find ways to survive alongside Fultondale’s fire chief Justin McKenzie told
chief who has also served as president since around Hanoi’s National Convention Centre, China,” he said, adding that they will also try ABC 33/40 the town had been “hit bad,
2018, is vying for another term as general with security officers keeping watch as to stand up to their giant neighbour in the multiple injuries, multiple houses, trees,
secretary, analysts say, although he is not delegates arrived for the opening ceremony. South China Sea. – AFP people trapped”. – AFP

Another contender to remain in a key post Trump impeachment
article sent to Senate

WASHINGTON: The U.S. House of
Representatives presented a single article of
impeachment to the Senate on Monday
accusing Donald Trump of inciting the storming
of the Capitol, setting in motion the first-ever
impeachment trial of a former president.

In a solemn procession, the nine House
impeachment managers silently walked the
article through the same ornate halls of
Congress overrun by Trump supporters on Jan 6
and delivered it to the Senate.

Representative Jamie Raskin, the lead
impeachment manager, then read out the
charge against Trump on the Senate floor,
where the former president continues to enjoy
significant support from Republican senators.

“Donald John Trump engaged in high crimes
and misdemeanours by inciting violence
against the government of the United States.
He threatened the integrity of the democratic
system, interfered with the peaceful transition
of power and imperiled a coequal branch of
government.”

The Senate trial of Trump, who was
impeached by the House on Jan 13 for a second
time, is to begin the week of Feb 8.

Democratic Senate majority leader Chuck
Schumer said the 100 members of the Senate,
who will act as jurors, will be sworn in today
and a summons issued to Trump.

Democrats and Republicans agreed to delay
the start of the trial for two weeks to allow
Trump to prepare his defence against the
charge of “incitement of insurrection”, and for
the Senate to confirm President Joe Biden’s
cabinet appointees. – AFP

7theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | JANUARY 27, 2021
NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS

Covid-19 cases in Indonesia SOUTH AFRICA BLASTSBRIEFS
pass one million mark VACCINE HOARDING

JAKARTA: Indonesia passed more o Hospitals in country with population of 270m well as business and religious PRETORIA: South African
than one million Covid-19 cases on brink of collapse, say experts leaders. President Cyril Ramaphosa
yesterday, as the archipelago yesterday lashed “vaccine
launches one of the world’s biggest being unable to access intensive care The country of some 17,000 Tests in Brazil showed the nationalism”, accusing rich
vaccine drives to clamp down on a units and isolation rooms due to islands is now rolling out a huge Sinovac jab was highly effective in countries of bulk-buying Covid-19
soaring infection rate. high demand – a shortage vaccination drive with frontline staving off moderate to serious virus vaccines and hoarding them to
underscored by an East Java city’s workers and other high-risk groups cases. But overall, it was only about the detriment of others.
The nation of nearly 270 million move to outfit a train carriage to among the first to get the jab, 50% effective in preventing patients Addressing the all-virtual World
has recorded 1,012,350 virus cases accommodate the sick. produced by China’s Sinovac. from contracting the disease. Economic Forum 2021, he said
and almost 29,000 deaths, according low- and middle-income
to official data. But low testing rates The virus has killed at least 600 Officials had earlier said they Muslim-majority Indonesia’s top countries were being shouldered
mean the crisis is believed to be doctors, nurses and other medical would focus on inoculating the religious body also approved the aside by wealthier nations able to
much bigger than those figures workers, many outfitted with limited working population aged 18 to 59 vaccine as halal – meaning acquire “up to four times what
suggest. protection equipment, according to instead of prioritising the elderly, permissible under Islam – in a move their population needs”. “We are
independent researchers. like many countries are doing. that could help convince wary concerned about vaccine
Some hospitals are on the brink citizens. nationalism. Release the excess
of collapse as they are overwhelmed “Hospitals are already But the health ministry later said vaccines that you have ordered
with patients in one of Asia’s worst- collapsing,” Riono said, adding the some 25 million seniors would be Previous vaccination drives have and hoarded,” he said. – AFP
hit nations, public health experts government had “no management, targeted after doctors and other been met with resistance by some
warn. no plan, no priorities, just trial and frontline workers if testing shows the segments of the country’s huge SECOND NIGHT OF
error”. Sinovac jab is safe for older people. population, the world’s RIOTS IN NETHERLANDS
“I think we hit one million cases fourth-largest.
of Covid-19 a long time ago,” Indonesia’s government has been This month, Indonesian THE HAGUE: The Netherlands has
University of Indonesia widely criticised for initially President Joko Widodo received the Indonesia is aiming to inoculate been hit by a second night of riots,
epidemiologist Pandu Riono said. downplaying the pandemic and, country’s first Covid-19 jab on live nearly 182 million people over the as coronavirus curfew frustrations
later, for lacking a coherent crisis television along with his health next 15 months. boiled over. Netherlands Prime
“We are still climbing a mountain strategy. minister, several senior officials, as Minister Mark Rutte told reporters
and we don’t even know where the The country has also signed deals the weekend’s street violence was
peak is. This is a never-ending for about 330 million vaccine doses “unacceptable”. On Monday night,
climb.” from a string of pharmaceutical protesters rampaged again in
companies including AstraZeneca, several cities. Riot police clashed
There are reports of patients Pfizer and Chinese suppliers. – AFP with groups of demonstrators in
Amsterdam and elsewhere,
Lion cub born including the port of Rotterdam
in Singapore where people smashed shop
via artificial windows and police deployed a
insemination water cannon. – AFP

SINGAPORE: The Singapore Zoo A photo released by the Wildlife Reserves of Singapore yesterday shows Simba at the Wildlife Healthcare and Research Aussies defy fines,
has welcomed a lion cub named Centre at the Singapore Zoo. – AFPPIX arrests to mark
Simba to its animal kingdom ‘Invasion Day’
following artificial insemination that
officials said yesterday was a first for CANBERRA: Thousands defied
the city-state. coronavirus rules yesterday to protest
Australia’s national day, held on the
It is rare for lions to be conceived anniversary of British colonisation of the
through artificial insemination, with vast continent that its indigenous
the procedure first carried out population marks as “Invasion Day”.
successfully in 2018 – resulting in
two cubs in South Africa. Officially recognised as Australia Day,
Jan 26 also sees annual rallies drawing
Lion populations in the wild have attention to the injustices faced by
plummeted more than 40% over the indigenous people and calling on the
past two decades, with about 23,000 government to change the date of the
to 39,000 mature animals left, national holiday.
according to the International Union
for Conservation of Nature. The celebration of the origins of the
modern nation is a time of mourning for
It lists lions as vulnerable. indigenous Australians, who have
Singapore’s new cub, named after inhabited the land for 65,000 years and
the main character in Disney’s “The view the arrival of British settlers in 1788
Lion King”, was conceived with as the beginning of two centuries of pain
semen from an elderly African lion. and suffering.
The father Mufasa, who also takes
his name from the animated film, Thousands of people gathered at a
was in poor health and did not central Sydney park in defiance of police
survive the procedure, the zoo said. threats of fines and arrests for breaching
Simba, who was born in October, a 500-person limit on public gatherings,
is being cared for by his mother though organisers called off a march
Kayla and zookeepers, and is through the city that usually follows.
“healthy and inquisitive”, officials
said. – AFP Police said five people were arrested,
including one who was charged with
Duterte tells children to stay home and watch TV assaulting a police officer, but praised
the crowds as largely peaceful.
MANILA: Philippine President the TV the whole day,” Duterte said. allowed outside again from next businesses battered by anti-virus
Rodrigo Duterte has reimposed a While many parents have flouted month. measures. Authorities earlier refused to waive
ban on children aged 10 to 14 leaving the cap on numbers, despite no new
home, telling them to watch TV the rules, allowing their children to But Duterte overturned the Acting socioeconomic planning cases being detected in Australia’s
instead, as the country battles an play in parks or on the street, the decision late on Monday, saying he secretary Karl Kendrick Chua said biggest city for more than a week.
outbreak of a new coronavirus measure has prevented families did not want to risk youngsters this month that 50% of the economy
strain. visiting shopping malls, which are catching the more contagious British was driven by “family activities”, and Chants of “Sovereignty was never
the centres of community life and strain of the virus that has so far without them the economy could ceded” and “No justice, no peace” rang
Stay-at-home orders for all consumer spending. Classrooms infected 17 people in the country, not recover. out while others held up placards with
children and the elderly have been also have remained closed. including three children. slogans including “Not a date to
kept in place across most of the The Philippines’ caseload of celebrate” and “Black lives matter”.
country since the start of the The prolonged restriction on “I’m just afraid because this new more than half a million infections is
pandemic – even as the economy movement has been blamed for strain strikes young children,” he one of the highest in Southeast Asia. “For us it represents cultural
reopened after crippling lockdowns hampering the country’s recovery said. genocide. Our families being ripped
and restrictions. from its first recession in three Duterte’s administration has apart. Years and years of disease and
decades. Just hours before Duterte spoke, been criticised for its slowness to famine. And the intergenerational
“Go back to your homes ... and trade secretary Ramon Lopez said procure Covid-19 vaccines, with the impacts of that are still being felt today,”
besides they’re good just with the Last Friday, the government’s on Monday that allowing children bulk not expected to start arriving Gomeroi man Dylan Booth told AFP.
TV. They can glue their attention to coronavirus task force announced outside again would help spur until the second half of the year.
children aged 10 to 14 would be consumer demand and revive – AFP Australia last year failed to meet most
key targets on closing the health and
well-being gap between Aboriginal
Australians and the rest of the
population, with soaring incarceration
rates among indigenous people and a
life expectancy about eight years lower
than the national average.

Thousands also attended protests in
other major cities across the country,
with rally organisers encouraging
attendees to wear face masks and
maintain physical distance where
possible. – AFP

8 theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | JANUARY 27, 2021
SPEAK UP

COMMENT by Dr Rais Hussin COMMENT by J. D. Lovrenciear

Malaysia’s new mission Reset domestic economy
should be to ‘reinvent’ to overcome pandemic

THE government of Malaysia affordable for locals to travel.
must take immediate Agriculture should also be
cognisance of what experts
and governments are saying looked into seriously. We
IN 2020, despite Covid-19, Singapore about a highly possible, neglected it for a good three
raised 25 times more capital for its reinforce and further expand the digital governmental agencies, without any silos. extended Covid-19 presence. decades in search of export
tech start-ups compared with economy as the key driver for Malaysia’s MDEC’s role is envisaged as one Singapore believes that the and import profits.
Malaysia. Indonesia raised 22 times socio-economic growth. among many in the peer group, leading effects of Covid-19 are
more; Vietnam, the Philippines and even engagement at all levels of society to expected to run for four to five Get all local councils and
Myanmar all eclipsed Malaysia. Notably, The key hallmarks of the mission partake in and contribute towards the new years. state governments to release
the country only out-paced Cambodia include: mindset required to sustain Malaysia 5.0. Our neighbour to the north vacant, uncultivated land to
among its Asean peers. 1. Radical transparency and good After all, it is a concept where society is Thailand has already reset its encourage youths to engage
governance; deeply integrated with technology, tourism trade, with domestic in smallholding crop
By this measure, the institutions 2. Education from primary to tertiary; and governed by inclusive and equitable “eco- tourism promotion geared to cultivation and animal
charged with modernising the economy – 3. Collaboration within the government vironmental” principles and practices. go big. husbandry.
the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation and across the private sector. Coming into the role as chairman of What we should be doing
(MDEC) included – need to up the ante, MDEC, I have taken this narrative forward with frantic urgency is to Like Thailand, moblise
and this must be done quickly. Expanding on the above, MDEC is as Malaysia 5.0, a concept that engenders rewire our domestic trade and agriculture and veterinary
undertaking an independent holistic a participatory culture in which social tackle domestic tourism. institutions to get cracking in
Yet, changing this dynamic and governance review to recalibrate its benefits belong to the people and serves To do so effectively, engage providing productive and
bridging the gap defies any simple quick- capability and capacity to deliver on the the commonwealth of a nation. hotels and restaurant effective assistance to youths
fix as it calls for a grassroots change, to Reinvent mission. It has three main components: firstly, operators to work hard in so that they succeed in their
make a difference in society’s mindset. instilling a new core identity philosophy attracting local tourism. ventures.
The process includes having human that transcends individual and societal We should review
As the digital age of the Industry 4.0 (IR capital movement at all levels, enabling it divides, while it upholds the value of accommodation pricing, it It is also time to abolish the
4.0) dawns upon all, it foretells a society to bring in leading industry-focused shared prosperity. must commensurate with the middleman and monopoly
evermore deeply integrated with talents and technocrats. This is in addition Secondly, adopt, value-add and rewired economic realities. structures of domestic trade.
technology. It is the mission of Malaysia to the many super amazing talents already produce digital transformation and IR Business permits must be
5.0 that this interplay between technology present at MDEC. 4.0 technologies that are centred on approved in a fast and timely In this age of the internet
and society is always inclusive and solving eco-environmental problems. manner in order to instil marketing and logistics,
equitable, instead of further widening the The second hallmark includes a And thirdly, produce well-rounded enthusiasm in doing farmer-to-consumer contact
gap between the haves and have-nots. comprehensive and wholesome citizens who are well-positioned and business. does not need nuclear
education to increase public empowered to face, navigate and thrive Promote local cultures and science to develop and
In doing so, it aspires to unify society understanding of IR 4.0 technologies and in the IR 4.0 era. culinary experiences in a new sustain.
beyond creed and colour identities, and making all these advance innovations The goals of Malaysia 5.0 include way. There are enough
strives towards commonly shared values easily available to small- and medium- encouraging growth and progress for all; creative citizens to contribute We need to be ready for the
to promote shared prosperity. sized enterprises (SMEs), especially for deep integration of IR 4.0 technologies at ideas and know-how. long haul, current and post
micro-SMEs – a group that faces the every level of society (individual, Tour operators can come covid pandemic, that is now
Powerful technologies of IR 4.0, such as greatest risk of being left behind as IR 4.0 industry, government and up with special travel and tour believed to take a good five
artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain and technology is widely implemented. environment); and transform and promotions throughout the years to overcome.
internet of things (IoT) will usher in the reform the national education system to national calender for the next
digital transformation of society and will The third hallmark involves extensive reflect the ground realities in this new IR three years to encourage Tackle the problem with
raise the potential to decentralise data into outreach and engagement to instil interest 4.0 era – from primary school to tertiary. Malaysians to travel the SMEs, they have to be the
the hands of the people. and integrate advanced technologies, IR 4.0 and digital transformation are length and breadth of the sustaining engines of
across all sectors of the economy. inevitable global phenomena and country. domestic consumption.
This will create, for the first time in the Malaysia needs to embrace them and The government should Indeed domestic markets are
human experience, the necessary results This will cultivate equitable and take the appropriate action under the implement what Thailand has our immediate salvation.
to democratise all sorts of information. inclusive growth as well as boost vision of Malaysia 5.0. already achieved by providing
development in under-served segments, This includes embarking on it well-planned, and Believe it or not, the world
It is the critical task of MDEC to equip especially in rural areas. immediately, so as not to be left behind. maintained parks and open is desperately rewiring fast.
all Malaysians with the tools and skills to As the saying goes, “Time and tide waits spaces, with huts around Malaysians do not have the
not only navigate IR 4.0 in this disruptive IR 4.0 has the power to change this for no man”. lakes, scenic valleys and rivers luxury to dream big like they
era, but also thrive and enjoy personal with a new narrative and drive society for families to go out and did over the past 20 years.
progress and economic growth at every beyond the informational age, as it Dr Rais Hussin is the president/CEO of enjoy nature’s blessings at
level of society. After all, the primary goal is seeks to move into the ideal era of IR 4.0 EMIR Research, an independent think low cost. We need to seize the
to leave no one behind. and digital transformation. The concept tank focused on strategic policy They should also engage opportunity arising from this
– called Malaysia 5.0 – sees society being recommendation based on rigorous toll operators to offer 50% great crisis affecting humanity
MDEC recently announced its at the centre of technology, not the other discounts during public and fast reset the nation.
“Reinvent” mission, a concept that ties in way around. research and chairman of MDEC, leading holidays, school breaks and Meritocracy will lift all of us.
neatly to its 25th Anniversary this year. Malaysia’s digital economy for the many. weekends to make it
This includes making data Plugging corruption will
As the Silver Jubilee is significant, it decentralised and giving control to its Comments: [email protected] motivate citizens to be the
heralds a paradigm shift to prepare for the creators so they can monetise it for nation’s best.
uncharted terrain of the new norm that themselves. Admittedly, these gigantic
will likely linger around longer than many tasks are beyond the capability of any Our “muhibbah” spirit and
would expect. one institution. “gotong royong” disposition
must be capitalised as a
The Reinvent mission calls for a new It must be inter-ministry, intra-ministry, national, top priority agenda.
approach and fresh perspectives to inter-governmental agencies and intra
Comments:
[email protected]

9theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | JANUARY 27, 2021
SPEAK UP

RUKUN NEGARA: THE PRINCIPLES THE OBJECTIVES

BELIEF LOYALTY TO KING TO achieve greater unity TO maintain a TO create a just society in which
IN GOD AND COUNTRY among Malaysians democratic way of life the wealth of the nation shall be equitably shared

THE SUPREMACY OF THE RULE COURTESY AND TO ensure a liberal approach to her rich TO build a progressive society which shall be
THE CONSTITUTION OF LAW MORALITY and diverse cultural traditions oriented to modern science and technology

Re-envisioning retail through automation

COMMENT byJasonLoh stores, or 15% of the country’s total retail sensors and cameras driven by deep-
supply, are expected to cease operations learning software algorithms.
MUCH has been said about precipitated by super-spreaders/super- “Advanced between March 18, 2020, when the MCO
the need for micro and spreader events, are testing the limits of technology in was imposed, and January”. The tracking system is used to
small-and-medium-sized their survival. and of itself, identify people, their poses and hand
enterprises to innovate by when properly There’s a need, therefore, to re- positions in 3D.
way of digitalisation of their business According to the Department of oriented under envision retail business to become more
models and operations so that they can Statistics, Malaysia’s online retail sales Malaysia 5.0, technologically sophisticated and savvy As such, a shopper can browse and
continue to thrive and leverage on went up by 28.9% by the second quarter of becomes the on the basis of Industry 4.0 (the Fourth simply pick up items from the shelves
opportunities as well as adapt to 2020 or Q2’20 (at the height of MCO 1.0) solution to Industrial Revolution) and Malaysia 5.0 which are then automatically added to
challenges brought about by the Covid- with the concomitant 36.6% drop in the society’s (modelled after Society 5.0 of Japan) the retailer’s virtual copy of the
19 pandemic, which is unprecedented total sales value for physical transactions. challenges and where advanced technology is seamless shopper’s cart without any scanning or
and here to stay. problems and holistically integrated into our way of extra steps required.
With the continuation of the MCO in life, moving beyond personal
Businesses have been encouraged to less stringent forms such as the convenience and comfort to the new Aye Solutions Sdn Bhd provides retail
go online by adopting e-platforms, such conditional MCO and recovery MCO, the norms and, therefore, from digital automation solutions that can be scaled
as Lazada and Shopee, which are new norm is set to continue as transformation to human to fit everything from kiosks to grocery
increasingly popular with consumers consumers quickly adjust and adapt to it. transformation. stores. Location will be key for retailers
due to Covid-19 being a catalyst in as they plan to switch to automation.
pushing for a “low-touch economy”. Now with the imposition of MCO 2.0, Advanced technology in and of itself,
it is said that retail businesses have when properly oriented under Malaysia One of the key sites for retail
A low-touch economy is where there dropped by about 90%. 5.0, becomes the solution to society’s automation stores are in industrial areas
is reduced or no face-to-face contact at challenges and problems. either in conventional factory buildings
all between the consumer and merchant This is according to Bumiputera or semi-detached buildings used for
due to the public health imperative of Retailers Organisation president Datuk Among the digitalisation trends set to commercial purposes or unoccupied
minimising physical contact to ensure Wira Ameer Ali Mydin, a prominent and make a mark in Malaysia is the lands, but situated near highways and
Covid-19 isn’t easily transmitted. experienced entrepreneur who’s the introduction of retail automation. major routes as examples.
managing director (MD) of the popular
This is simultaneously combined Mydin halal hypermarket and retail A leading pioneer, and mover and This in turn will transform urban
with social or physical distancing as the chain. shaker in this regard is Aye Solutions Sdn design and architecture, and facilitate
more general and popular embodiment Bhd whose founder, consultant-turned the concept of the “doughnut city”
of what’s now the new norm. Ameer Ali expressed the reality on the entrepreneur Lim Yee Yun, is very within the context of “doughnut
ground when he said “(that) the number passionate about emulating the economics” (as promoted by Kate
The term, “low-touch economy” was of Covid-19 cases which has been technological culture of Japan. Raworth) which simply means that the
initially highlighted by the chairman of increasing tremendously … has affected core urban areas become displaced by
the Malaysian Digital Economy consumers’ confidence”, as reported in a Retail automation refers to the the periphery urban areas.
Corporation (MDEC) in his article, daily. introduction of AI and robotic processes
“Getting in touch with the new ‘low in retail that conform to the principles of This in turn will contribute to the
touch’ economy” published in a daily, in In the same news report, consulting the low-touch economy. rebalancing of density dynamics,
reference to a report by the Board of agency Retail Group Malaysia (RGM) economic activities as well as socio-
Innovation, a global business design and MD Tan Hai Hsin was quoted as As Lim articulates, “… in many ways, economic development.
innovation strategy firm. estimating that Q4’20, retail sales were much of the enhancements so far have
expected to dip by 18.2%. been focused on e-commerce Retail automation could well be one
For other businesses that can afford infrastructure, store performance of the digitalisation trends that is set to
and are in a position to do so, apart from Now with MCO 2.0, “shopping traffic management system and omni-channel revolutionise our society – in line with
digitalisation, they are also encouraged (can be expected to decline by) as much connections. Now, it is entering the next Malaysia 5.0 – in the future.
to automate – which means introduce as 60% at most of the shopping and frontier – the automation of check-out
the artificial intelligence (AI) of internet commercial centres”. services itself”. Be that as it may, physical retail
of things (IoT), or AIoT, as well as businesses overall need not be left out,
robotics into the picture and not just For Q3’20, the Malaysia Retailers In such an unmanned setting, economically or technologically, by the
using big data and predictive analytics Association (MRA) had projected the retailers will be able to save costs in the advent of Covid-19.
and e-commerce software. growth rate to be at -3.4%. long run, upskill their staff, and improve
operations. And it can also play a part in They can still reposition by taking
For conventional retail, changing Another daily reported that for the reducing reliance on foreign labour. advantage of digitalisation opportunities,
consumer habits such as the increasing first time in 22 years, Malaysia’s retail strategically “downsizing” (e.g., deciding
shift to online shopping and abrupt drop sales are seen “contracting by as much as Gone are the barcode-based self- which outlets to downsize or relocate)
in shopper footfall since the imposition 15.8% this year”. scan checkout lanes which have been and refocusing their business
of the first movement control order in place in Malaysia for some time models/operations that could well
(MCO 1.0) last year and the sporadic and This translates into a total value of now (including Tecso) that doesn’t do include automation.
intermittent outbreak of Covid-19 waves retail sales to RM90.5 billion, which is a away with physical and manual Jason Loh Seong Wei is head of social,
due to the emergence of new clusters staggering RM21.9 billion less than the supervision.
RM112.4 billion originally envisaged law and human rights at EMIR
based on a 4.6% growth projection. All customers need to do is “tap their Research, an independent think tank
credit or debit card at the autogate upon
Tan, who was also quoted in the same entry, load their shopping bags and walk focused on strategic policy
news report, said “an estimated 51,000 out of the store” with impunity – all recommendations based on rigorous
under a tracking system that deploys AI
research. Comments:
[email protected]

Draft law to regulate, enforce social distancing

COMMENT by Muzaffar Syah Mallow We must not forget that the threat health protected. distancing call.
of Covid-19 still exist around us. In order to ensure everyone As such, it would be much better
THE government should seriously However, unlike MCO 1.0, which
consider creating a specific or was enforced in March up to early The number of infections is still follows the social distancing call, the for us to create one in order to
standalone regulation to regulate and May last year and witnessed the full rising globally on daily basis. Millions government should urgently ensure everyone in the country
enforce social distancing in the closure of many working and of people reported to be infected with consider creating a specific or follows it thus allowing us to protect
country in order to effectively prevent education sectors, MCO 2.0 is more the virus, with more than two million standalone legislation. ourselves and others from the risk of
the spread of Covid-19. relaxed whereby the government has people having succumbed to it have infection.
allowed many working sectors in the been reported all over the world. The proposed law can operate
They cannot simply give the country to operate. temporarily in the country until Having a law on social distancing
public advice on such issues and This virus is a highly contagious everyone has been vaccinated or in the country will also allow us to
hope they will practise social The government also allowed the and can cause serious health until a cure has been found. clearly identify what the
distancing on their own. resumption of schools for students problems to those who have been requirements are to practise social
who are going to seat for major exams. infected with it, especially to the Without creating one, it would be distancing in public places, including
There might be people out there elderly, those who have a weak difficult to ensure everyone in the the workplace, restaurants, petrol
who are obstinate and refuse to follow The relaxation of MCO 2.0 would immune system and those who are country abides by the call for social stations, banks, schools, universities,
the call, or people who are still confused certainly increase the risk of rising suffering from chronic diseases. distancing either due to their as well as in all public transport
over the idea of social distancing itself. numbers of Covid-19 infections if the disobedience, ignorance or even services and airplanes.
public does not follow all the Even though we have recently confusion.
Recently the government prescribed standard operating developed a vaccine to shield people Through this law, a clear and
enforced the movement control procedures (SOP) and advice given from the virus, it is still in the early Having a specific law for social suitable punishment can also be
order (MCO 2.0) throughout the by the government through the stage of distribution all over the world. distancing is important so that drafted and imposed on anyone who
country, except for Sarawak, in order Ministry of Health, and this includes everybody in the country is aware of fails to practise social distancing.
to curb the spread of Covid-19, which the call and advice pertaining to Many countries have not received it and follows it without resorting to
has seen a drastic increase in the social distancing itself. the vaccine, including Malaysia. petty excuses. Muzaffar Syah Mallow is a senior
number of infections lately. lecturer of Faculty of Syariah and
It will take vast amounts of time Though we already have in place
for everyone to be vaccinated. several laws like the Prevention and Law at Universiti Sains Islam
Control of Infectious Diseases Act Malaysia (USIM). Comments:
Because of this the government 1988 and Penal Code, it is still not
needs to take drastic steps in order to enough to enforce the social [email protected]
ensure the public is safe and their

10 theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | JANUARY 27, 2021 Sales periods could make
MEDIA & MARKETING you more generous

Avoid discrimination CHARITIES could raise more consumers, generating a greater
when hiring donations if they solicited desire – and opportunity – to
consumers at the time around or donate.
after promotional periods. While
spikes in donations are observed But that’s not all. The
o Gender bias in hiring after certain Black Friday-type phenomenon could be even
can be costly to operations, a cohort of stronger when consumers focus
companies researchers is revealing the extent primarily on the amount of
to which these promotions money saved after a purchase,
influence consumer generosity. and even more so when that
Researchers from Nanyang purchase fits into their budget,
University of Technology in and when the savings are realised
SEXISM in the workplace can Singapore, Jiao-tong University in immediately and not in the future.
start as early as the Shanghai, and the University of Researchers say this is part of the
hiring process. Whether Hong Kong started their project reason for the success of Giving
unconsciously applied or not, from a simple observation: Giving Tuesday, which offers consumers
these gender biases can significantly Tuesday, a global campaign the opportunity to make their
affect employee productivity and the calling for commitment and donation instantly.
financial position of companies, even solidarity that takes place just
when they occur infrequently, after Black Friday and Cyber This work also provides
according to a new US study from the Monday, is a worldwide success charities insights about when to
University of Oregon. every year. In 2020, Americans launch their campaigns, which
demonstrated great generosity consumers to target, and the need
This meta-analysis compiles the with donations estimated at to link their appeals for donations
results of 30 years of research in the US$2.47 billion (RM9.88 billion) to promotions that focus on
fields of human resources in the on this occasion. necessities and not on products
United States, with a particular focus In their study, published in the associated with the notion of
on employee recruitment. The indulgence. – AFP-Relaxnews
objective of this study published in
Journal of Management was to better Journal of Marketing,
understand the effects that gender the scientists
bias in hiring can have on employers. analysed this
phenomenon and
Gender bias in hiring refers to drew conclusions
favouring one candidate over that could help
another solely on the basis of gender. charities see their
In other words, preferring to hire a donations increase
man rather than a woman with equal significantly. In particular,
skills and qualifications. While their
companies are subject to laws According to the study, gender bias in hiring has decreased from 4% to 1% (or work
prohibiting all forms of perhaps less) in the space of 10 years.
discrimination in hiring, it is still suggests
naive to claim that these biases have 1% (or perhaps less) in the space of 10 The study also looked at that the savings
completely disappeared. years. However, computer employers’ willingness to reduce from these
simulations carried out by the gender gaps through what is often promotions increase the
“Bias is a problem ingrained in us. researchers have shown that the termed “affirmative action” or resources perceived by
It is systematic. It’s not typically about “small biases” that can lead to “targeted recruiting”. In other words,
bad intent. It is a natural response of discrimination in hiring decisions giving preference to female CNY campaign postponed
human beings to make sense of our can be costly to companies from a employees in the hiring process, with
complex world by taking mental financial point of view. In addition to the aim of increasing representation DUE to the worsening Covid-19 Campaign 2021 has selected 118
shortcuts. However, these cognitive risking legal action, they also take the among employees more quickly. pandemic situation, Sports Toto old folks homes nationwide to be
shortcuts can have big consequences risk of hiring a less qualified Methods that are still “imperfect”, the Malaysia Sdn Bhd has decided to its beneficiaries.
for us when high stakes rewards like a candidate, which will have researchers point out. postpone its 34th Chinese New
sought-after job are on the line. Our consequences on the productivity Year Ang Pow Donation
goal is to better understand it so we levels of teams. “The targeted recruitment of Campaign which was supposed
can find solutions,” explains Jay highly qualified candidates can to kickstart on Jan 28.
Hardy, assistant professor of For example, a Fortune 500 increase representation, but if you’re
management in OSU’s College of company that makes 8,000 new hires not fixing the underlying bias “The current pandemic
Business and lead author of the per year, 1% of which are influenced problem, these methods do not situation is worrying and we hope
study, reports AFP-Relaxnews. by gender bias, will be exposed to 32 address discrimination and can lead that the nation will be able to
Significant loss of productivity additional failures and productivity to other issues, including employee break the chain of transmission
within companies losses of approximately US$2.8 dissatisfaction,” assesses Jay Hardy. during the movement control
The first observation, which is rather million (RM11.2 million) per year. order (MCO) period,” said Sports
positive, is that gender biases in If the effect of gender bias is 4%, the While the study focused Toto senior communications
hiring are less frequent than they balance sheet could rise to 192 specifically on gender manager Giam Say Khoon.
were in the past. According to the additional hiring failures and a discrimination, the researchers also
study, they have dropped from 4% to US$17 million (RM68 million) point out the presence of other types Sports Toto’s Chinese New
loss in productivity, the study of discrimination, including racial Year Ang Pow Donation
estimates. prejudice, likely much more frequent
than that related to gender.

POSTGRAD
The key to success is to
first start somewhere.

PUBLICATION DATE 23 FEBRUARY, 2021 (Tuesday)

Speak to theSun’s Sales team now for special deals on BOOKING & STORY DEADLINE 9 FEBRUARY, 2021 (Tuesday)
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MATERIAL DEADLINE 19 FEBRUARY, 2021 (Friday)

S E C U R I T I E S S D N. B H D. SunBIZ WEDNESDAY
JANUARY 27, 2021
197201001092 (12738-U)
Editorial: Tel.: 03-7784 6688
A Participating Organisation of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad Fax: 03-7785 2624/5

A Trading Participant of Bursa Malaysia Derivatives Berhad Email: [email protected]
Advertising: Tel: 03-7784 8888
Participation Bought Sold Net
% Fax: 03-7784 4424
RM m RM m RM m Email: [email protected]

44.6 Institutions 2117.2 2105.3 11.9

37.5 Retail 1920.0 1633.2 286.8

17.9 Foreign 698.2 996.9 -298.7 1.31 28.13 767.75 54.81 276.11 287.69 68.68
KLCI STI HANG SENG SCI NIKKEI TSEC KOSPI
100.0 4735.4 4735.4 0.0 1,575.31 2,945.52 28,546.18 3,140.31 CLOSED
29,391.26 3,569.43 15,658.85
Preliminary stats (excluding trade amendments). For final data, please refer to www.bursamalaysia.com S&P/ASX200
Source: Burs Malaysia

KL MARKET SUMMARY Property market recovery
January 26, 2021

INDICES 11,398.80 CHANGE +8.34 stunted, delayed to 2022
FBMEMAS
FBMKLCI 1,575.31 -1.31
CONSUMER PRODUCTS 583.84 +2.60
INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTS 170.46 -0.34
CONSTRUCTION 164.88 -0.15
FINANCIAL SERVICES 14,697.40 +132.70
ENERGY 808.39 +3.99 o Longer wait due to
TELECOMMUNICATIONS 654.95 -0.87 latest Covid wave,
HEALTH CARE 3,557.06 -32.90 overhang to remain high:
TRANSPORTATION 747.82 +2.37 Real estate consultancy
PROPERTY 677.34 -5.48
PLANTATION 7,184.35 -0.11
FBMSHA 12,832.60 -59.90
FBMACE 10,798.60 +128.30
TECHNOLOGY 80.91 +2.13
TURNOVER █ BY EE ANN NEE
5.930 BIL VALUE [email protected]
RM4.735 BIL
PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian property
5 MOST ACTIVES market is expected to see a further delay in
January 26, 2021 its recovery to 2022 due to the resurgence of
Covid-19 cases and the reimplementation
STOCK VOL CLSG (sen) +/– (sen) of the movement control order (MCO), From left: Siva, Rahim and Sulaiman displaying Rahim & Co Research’s annual publication
ADNEX 307,108,800 28 -2 according to real estate consultancy Rahim
FINTEC 170,407,200 8 +0.5 & Co International Sdn Bhd. ultimately caused delays in completion Siva said the HOC helped to reduce the
DNEX-WD 170,012,200 6 targets, resulting in completion numbers to overhang a bit but what will help is the
PBBANK 141,894,200 440 UNCH CEO of estate agency Siva Shanker said be 33.4% lower (at 64,080 units) than in the availability of Covid-19 vaccines and better
KEYASIC 127,005,200 10.5 +14 real estate analysts predicted last year that previous period. sentiment in 2021 which will then carry
+1.5 2021 would see a recovery in the property over to 2022.
market, not knowing that Covid-19 cases In addition, overhang numbers grew by
5 TOP GAINERS would rise to 4,000 levels. 14.8% to 57,390 units worth RM42.49 “We can expect the residential market to
January 26, 2021 billion of dwelling units (residential, recover slightly and perhaps move upwards
“Now that it has (reached 4,000 cases) serviced apartment and SOHO combined). a bit on the back of successful vaccination
STOCK VOL CLSG (RM) RM and there is another lockdown, it will affect While this may be due to the pandemic’s and renewed sentiment.”
MPI 496,800 32.40 1.70 the market as everything slows down and effect, the persisting overhang is evident of
EITA 7,153,500 3.60 0.55 the ability of people to move around a problem that is yet to be tackled The firm has called for a comprehensive
UWC 1,152,000 12.54 0.44 decreases. Because of high numbers and effectively. study into the overhang issue, suggesting
SCIB 60,313,600 2.54 0.42 we’re back into the peak of the pandemic, that, moving forward, new developments
KPOWER 41,803,800 2.62 0.37 that slated recovery of 2021 and projections Sulaiman said overhang properties in must go through a due diligence and
for 2021 are probably going to be delayed to the market are still unlikely to see a prudent decision-making before they enter
5 TOP LOSERS 2022 due to rising Covid-19 cases and the significant drop in 2021 and it will be a the market.
January 26, 2021 resultant lockdown,” he told a virtual press mammoth task to reduce them.
conference yesterday in conjunction with It also expects some increase in property
STOCK VOL CLSG (RM) RM the release of its publication, Rahim & Co “It (overhang) could be stabilising but it auctions as the number of applications to
DIN042300721 100 101.00 1.00 Research – Property Market Review is still expected to remain high because of refinance properties has increased.
HARTA 6,233,700 12.44 0.56 2020/2021. all the other problems like income levels,
SUPERMX 26,117,600 6.65 0.35 product, location, price, availability of Executive chairman Tan Sri Abdul
TOPGLOV 35,661,200 6.20 0.32 Director of research Sulaiman Saheh buyers getting loans and certain aspects of Rahim Abdul Rahman stressed that the
TENCENT-C9 229,300 0.645 0.255 said the property sector’s recovery has property inappropriate for the target property sector needs stimulus packages
become stunted as the market became market.” from the government and that the
EXCHANGE RATES JANUARY 26, 2021 cautious. Property market transactions government should extend aid to
were down in the nine months of 2020 both The places with the highest overhang borrowers in these Covid-19 times, failing
Foreign currency Bank sell Bank buy Bank buy in terms of number (-15.8% to 204,721 are Johor (23,072 units), Selangor (8,791 which property auctions will increase and
transactions) and in value (-21.6% to units) and Kuala Lumpur (7,863 units). create a big problem for the property
1 US DOLLAR TT/OD TT OD RM80.71 billion) year on year. This stalled They are followed by Perak (4,015 units) industry.
1 AUSTRALIAN DOLLAR 4.1045 3.9785 3.9685 the recovery trends in the property sector and Penang (3,969 units). Overhang stock
1 BRUNEI DOLLAR 3.1800 3.0540 3.0380 seen since 2018/2019 after several years of a comprises more non-landed units than “The effect on the property market will
1 CANADIAN DOLLAR 3.0900 2.9990 2.9910 lagging market. In 2020, buyer sentiments landed units. be there for another year. The market will
1 EURO 3.2160 3.1290 3.1170 were understandably hampered when continue to be soft,” said Rahim.
1 NEWZEALAND DOLLAR 4.9870 4.8250 4.8050 Covid-19 swept in with its disruptive effect Sulaiman said places with the best
1 SINGAPORE DOLLAR 2.9640 2.8540 2.8380 across almost all sectors. chance of reducing overhang properties are Hence, for the year ahead, the focus for
1 STERLING POUND 3.0900 2.9990 2.9910 Selangor and Kuala Lumpur for properties residential properties strongly remains on
1 SWISS FRANC 5.6160 5.4380 5.4180 As the largest segment of Malaysia’s within city areas where there is strong the affordable segment as the overhang
100 UAE DIRHAM 4.6050 4.4940 4.4790 property market, the residential sector saw demand by buyers (local market) if prices persists. New launches are also shifting to
100 BANGLADESHTAKA 113.0100 107.1300 106.9300 a decline in the first nine months of 2020 by are adjusted. Developers are giving more the affordable price mark with more units
100 CHINESE RENMINBI 4.9480 4.6080 4.4080 14.3% in volume and 14.8% in value in spite and more discounts, on top of the Home within the RM200,000-RM300,000 range.
100 HONGKONG DOLLAR 63.4000 60.9000 of a better year-on-year performance in the Ownership Campaign (HOC), to clear Secondary market sales continue to
100 INDIAN RUPEE 53.5000 50.8200 N/A third quarter when the country entered the these units. dominate with price consolidation still
100 INDONESIAN RUPIAH 5.7200 5.3700 50.6200 recovery-MCO phase. Progress in housing going on.
100 JAPANESE YEN 0.0303 0.0274 developments was disrupted and
100 NEWTAIWAN DOLLAR 3.9580 3.8340 5.1700
100 PAKISTAN RUPEE 15.8000 0.0224 Saudi Arabia sells dual-tranche dollar bonds
100 PHILIPPINE PESO 2.6000 N/A 3.8240
100 QATAR RIYAL 8.6600 2.4300 DUBAI: Saudi Arabia began marketing a bonds, the document from one of the according to a bond prospectus seen by
100 SAUDI RIYAL 113.9000 8.1600 N/A dual-tranche benchmark US dollar- banks on the deal showed. Reuters.
100THAI BAHT 110.6000 108.1300 2.2300 denominated bond sale yesterday with
14.3000 104.9900 7.9600 tenors of 12 and 40 years, a document The government expects to post a fiscal Its fiscal balance programme foresees
12.6800 107.9300 showed, as it seeks to plug a large fiscal deficit of 141 billion riyals (RM152.1 the ratio of public debt to nominal GDP
104.7900 deficit. billion), or 4.9% of gross domestic product reaching up to 30% by 2023, the
12.2800 (GDP), this year after an expected deficit prospectus said.
The world’s top oil exporter has taken a of 298 billion riyals, or 12% of GDP, in 2020.
Source: Malayan Banking Berhad/Bernama severe blow from the pandemic, which, Saudi Arabia hired Goldman Sachs
along with an oil price war between Saudi Saudi Arabia expects public debt to International, HSBC and JPMorgan as
Arabia and Russia last year, sent oil prices increase to 937 billion riyals this year from global coordinators for the debt sale,
tumbling. 854 billion riyals last year. which was expected to close later
yesterday.
The kingdom gave initial price “The Government expects to finance
guidance of around 165 basis points over the budgeted deficit for the fiscal year 2021 BNP Paribas, Citi, NCB Capital and
10-year US treasuries for the 12-year primarily through a combination of Standard Chartered join them as book
tranche and around 3.75% for the 40-year raising domestic and external runners and are also passive joint lead
indebtedness, to the extent necessary,” managers. – Reuters

12 theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | JANUARY 27, 2021
SUNBIZ

PNE PCB aims to Pharmaniaga to supply 12m
raise RM21m via doses of Covid vaccine to govt
private placement
PETALING JAYA: Pharmaniaga Bhd o Ministry of Health to receive China’s finish CoronaVac at its EU and GMP
PETALING JAYA: PNE PCB Bhd aims will supply 12 million doses of CoronaVac, which will be manufactured fill and certified Small Volume Injectable
to raise an estimated RM21.13 CoronaVac Covid-19 vaccine to the finish at company’s hi-tech plant plant which has been repurposed
million via a proposed private Ministry of Health (MOH), following for this project. We expect to receive
placement of 71.16 million new the signing of an agreement by both the first bulk supply of CoronaVac
ordinary shares representing parties yesterday. from Sinovac in February.
approximately 20% of its total issued “Meanwhile, the logistics and
shares to independent third parties Pharmaniaga recently signed a distribution of CoronaVac will be
to be identified later. deal with CoronaVac’s developer company. of the vaccine to the government carried out by Pharmaniaga
Sinovac Lifesciences Co Ltd of China Pharmaniaga group managing designated hospitals, clinics and Logistics Sdn Bhd (PLSB) which has
According to the group’s Bursa to obtain the bulk supply of the other facilities. 26 years’ experience in managing
filing, the RM21.13 million is based vaccine which will be manufactured director Datuk Zulkarnain Md vaccine distribution and has well
on an illustrative issue price of 29.7 fill and finish at its high-tech plant. Eusope said it will manufacture fill “Our wholly owned subsidiary established infrastructure to
sen per share which represents a and finish CoronaVac as well as Pharmaniaga LifesSience Sdn Bhd support the needs. In view of the
10% discount to its last transacted The agreement includes the handle the logistics and distribution (PLS) will manufacture fill and unprecedented situation, we have
market price of 33 sen on Jan 20. vaccine technology transfer to the

It revealed that RM10.8 million of beefed up the security aspect of the
the proceeds raised from the logistics of the vaccine,” he said.
exercise will be used towards the Zulkarnain said Sinovac’s
repayment of borrowings, RM5 preliminary results from the Phase 3
million will be used to upgrade its clinical trial conducted on the general
existing printed circuit boards (PCB) population in Turkey had shown
production lines and RM4.56 million CoronaVac’s efficacy at 91.25%.
will be utilised as working capital. Zulkarnain said CoronaVac has
been registered and approved for
The remaining RM780,000 will be emergency use in China, Chile,
used to defray the proposed private Brazil, Indonesia and Turkey, with
placement cost. presidents Recep Tayyip Erdo an
and Joko Widodo themselves have
PNE elaborated that the exercise taken the vaccine.
will translate into interest savings “Despite the encouraging
and improved efficiency to its development on the use of
current producing facilities, resulting CoronaVac, we must adhere to the
in lower production cost and an regulations in Malaysia and let the
expanded production capacity. National Pharmaceutical
Regulatory Agency (NPRA) review
Following the exercise the group the dossier and relevant documents
estimated that its total share capital of the vaccine which we have
will increase to 426.94 million from submitted. Subject to NPRA’s
355.78 million and its market approval, we will have the vaccines
capitalisation to be at RM65.84 million available for use as soon as end-
from RM44.7 million previously. March or early April.”
Once CoronaVac gets registered
Moving forward, it stated that the with NPRA, PLS will be the product
prospects for the PCB industry in registration holder and exclusive
Malaysia and China to remain distributor, authorised by Sinovac for
positive. Malaysian market of finished
products both locally manufactured
Between 2019 and 2022, Zulkarnain (far left) and Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Adham Baba (far right) during the signing ceremony yesterday to or imported from China for the
Malaysia’s manufacturing sales value supply 12 million doses of CoronaVac Covid-19 vaccine to MOH. government and the private sectors.
of electronic components, including
PCBs, is forecast to grow by 8.8% Duopharma: 6.4m doses of Sputnik V for health ministry
while the sales in China is projected
to grow 2.9%. PETALING JAYA: Duopharma in order to cope with the global apart and in liquid form. logistics, ground support and other
Biotech Bhd, through its wholly growing demand for this vaccine. Subsequently, DMSB has also services to the government
The group pointed out there is a owned subsidiary Duopharma (M) Supplies of the Sputnik V vaccine hospitals and clinics.
growing importance of electric Sdn Bhd (DMSB), will procure and could be from any of RDIF’s entered into a term sheet
products in various applications and supply the Covid-19 vaccine partners, subject to approval by the agreement with the MOH to supply Duopharma Biotech group
industries as well as technological known as “Sputnik V” developed Malaysia’s National 6.4 million doses to vaccinate 3.2 managing director Leonard Ariff
advancements which led to a shorter by Russia’s Gamaleya National Pharmaceutical Regulatory million Malaysians. Supply of the Abdul Shatar said: “Moving
life cycle in most electronic products. Research Institute of Epidemiology Agency (NPRA). Sputnik V vaccine will be in phases forward, we have in place an
and Microbiology to the Health Sputnik V is the world’s first over a period within 2021. existing inert human vaccine fill &
Public Bank offers Ministry (MOH). registered vaccine based on a well- finish line at our plant in Klang,
golden gifts, studied human adenoviral vector- The supply is subject to the and it is ready to be used. We are
e-ang pow for CNY DMSB has signed a term sheet based platform. It has a unique Sputnik V vaccine being approved also positioning ourselves to
agreement with the Russian Direct approach that enables boosting of by Drug Control Authority, upgrade our facility to ensure the
PETALING JAYA: Public Bank (PBB) Investment Fund (RDIF) to secure the immune response and Malaysia through technical equipment will accommodate the
has launched its “Golden Fortune 6.4 million doses of Sputnik V. providing long lasting immunity. It evaluation by the NPRA. The localisation of vaccine
2021” campaign from Jan 1 to March RDIF is the appointed marketing is 92% effective, based on late- supply is also subject to the manufacturing in Malaysia, which
31 and “e-Ang Pow DuitNow” agent for Gamaleya for all stage trial results. execution of the definitive supply consequently can increase vaccine
campaign from Feb 11 to 26 in international markets. RDIF has Sputnik V is administered via agreement between RDIF and accessibility, reduce dependency
conjunction with the coming established partnerships in India, two doses, and made up of two DMSB and the definitive supply on importation, and ensure long-
Chinese New Year (CNY). China and South Korea to different components, 21 days agreement between MOH and term self-sufficiency of vaccines for
manufacture the Sputnik V vaccine DMSB. Furthermore, DMSB will the country.”
With the Golden Fortune also provide warehousing,
campaign, the bank offers two gifts
of a 24K gold plated bull as well as a HPP registers Q2 net profit of RM4.2 million
24K gold-foiled golden circle of
wealth to participating customers PETALING JAYA: HPP Holdings Bhd revenue was RM57.9 million and well for us as the manufacturing to replace one of its existing
with the purchase of unit trust funds posted a second quarter net profit of profit after tax was RM7.98 million. sector is one of the most important standard format printing machines
or insurance products bundled with RM4.23 million ended May 31, on a For comparative purposes, profit end-users of packaging printing. which is 10 years in age.
a deposit in selected current/savings revenue of RM31.2 million mainly after tax for the financial year
accounts. attributable to sales of corrugated ended May 31, 2020 was RM8.23 “We are in discussions with The new standard format
and non-corrugated packaging. million. several leading brands and we are printing machine is expected to
The Golden Fortune campaign is confident of concluding negotiations improve printing quality and colour
designed for customers who are However, on a quarter-on- Group managing director Kok with these new customers soon. We accuracy, reduce printing defects
looking for a diversified investment quarter basis, revenue increased by Hon Seng said the group is working have put in place strategies to and wastage and will automate
portfolio in the current low interest 16.9% from RM26.69 million while to expand its customer base. capture the rising demand and a blanket cleaning, among others.
rate environment in achieving their profit after tax increased to RM4.23 larger market share.”
financial goals. Customers can also million from RM3.75 million in the “More international corporations It also intends to expand its rigid
invest in a single premium previous financial quarter. are relocating their manufacturing The group expects the delivery of box business by acquiring an
investment-linked insurance plan facilities to Malaysia, creating further a new standard format printing additional rigid box production line
that provides insurance coverage For the cumulative six months, opportunities for us. This augurs machine in the first quarter of 2021, in 2021.
upon death or total and permanent
disability and investment returns.

Meanwhile, with its e-Ang pow
campaign, customers are able to gift
ang pows via its PB engage mobile
app from as low as RM10 and stand a
chance to receive a cashback prize
once the DuitNow transaction has
been completed.

13theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | JANUARY 27, 2021
* SUNBIZ

Poh Huat: 543 employees at Muar operation positive for Covid-19

PETALING JAYA: Poh Huat screening as a precautionary health of its employees. rescheduled delivery date. of its orders from its Vietnamese
Resources Holdings Bhd’s main measure to contain and prevent the Furthermore, Poh Huat has opted “PHFI expects to be able to subsidiary should the need arise. The
operating subsidiary Poh Huat spread of the pandemic among its group’s unit in Vietnam is free from
Furniture Industries Sdn Bhd (PHFI) employees and the surrounding to suspend its operations in Malaysia mitigate the delay in shipments as it any Covid-19-related incidents and
in Muar, Johor, found 543 employees community. from Jan 25 to Feb 3, or further if has a certain amount of ready remains in full operation.
positive for Covid-19, following a advised by the ministry. inventory to meet some of these
voluntary screening of its estimated It said it is cooperating and orders and, if necessary, increase Poh Huat said that barring any
1,400-strong workforce. working closely with the Health The group said the closure is production with extended shifts prolonged closures or interruption, it
Ministry to implement mitigating expected to result in a delay in upon recommencement of does not expect any adverse material
The group said in its Bursa steps to contain the spread of Covid- shipments of several orders to its manufacturing activities.” impact on its revenue or earning for
disclosure that it conducted the 19 at its premises and safeguard the customers in the US, and is in the the financial year ending 2021.
midst of discussions with them for a Additionally, it could divert some

OPR cut, recovery hinge SC tells unlisted public
on how MCO 2.0 unfolds firms to follow law,
guidelines in fundraising
o Situationisveryfluidand Lim (left) says focus on ESG is here to stay and March and May to contain the pandemic. The
difficult to predict, says Eng notes that Malaysia’s recovery is uneven. asset management firm said the Covid-19 PETALING JAYA: The Securities Commission
UOB Asset Management whether more stricter measures will be pandemic has resulted in an emphasis on Malaysia has told unlisted public companies
introduced. ESG-compliant investments by regulators (UPCs) seeking to raise funds from members of
█ BY AMIR IMRAN HUSAIN SAFRI and fund managers. the public to comply with the Capital Markets
[email protected] Should there be another cut key rate, the and Services Act 2007 (CMSA) and relevant
PETALING JAYA: The unfolding movement asset management firm believes the impact Despite an expected economic recovery in guidelines, especially when the offer is made to
control order 2.0 (MCO 2.0) introduced to on Malaysia’s fixed-income market would be the horizon, UOB Asset Management CEO retail investors.
address the surge in the number of Covid-19 muted given the negative yield environment Lim Suet Ling opined that the focus on ESG is
positive cases in Malaysia will be a key factor in some fixed-income markets. here to stay as it is a structural trend. The regulator’s statement follows an
for economic recovery, according to UOB increasing number of queries and complaints
Asset Management (Malaysia). “There is quite a lot of liquidity out there She highlighted that the criteria have pertaining to UPCs offering their shares,
looking for a home, and even if the yield does gained traction among regulators and funds including preference shares, to both retail and
Its chief investment officer Francis Eng come off, the yield pick up in Malaysia, it is managers from Europe, Japan and China, sophisticated investors.
views the country as going through some still attractive enough.” while one of the markets which has been
uneven recovery with a possibility to bounce resistant was the United States under Donald “The SC wishes to remind UPCs that offering
back to pre-pandemic levels in 2022 or later With MCO 2.0, the chief investment officer Trump’s administration but this is set to of shares to retail investors without a prospectus
this year, depending on how MCO 2.0 unfolds, cautioned that it could translate into a risk of change with Joe Biden’s presidency who is is a serious breach under the CMSA and a
as the situation is very fluid and difficult to slippage for Malaysia’s gross domestic more respective to the environmental person found liable may be punished with a fine
predict. product (GDP), if there is an extension to the aspects. not exceeding RM10 million or imprisonment
measure. not exceeding ten years, or both,” it said.
For Asia, he anticipated a recovery to pre “It is not only whether the US embraces it
Covid-19 levels to take place in 2021, led by Currently, BNM has projected the but a reality from a fund manager It added that UPCs have the duty to provide
China. country’s 2021 economic growth to be perspective, it is an additional consideration all relevant information to investors, including
between 6.5% and 7.5%. to the traditional valuation methods,” Lim sophisticated investors, to enable them to make
“Nonetheless, our base case is likely to be a explained. an informed assessment, including the merits of
pre-pandemic recovery in 2022 for Malaysia,” For third-quarter 2020 (Q3’20), Malaysia’s investing in the shares of the UPCs and the
he told the media at UOB’s Market Outlook on economy saw a 2.7% contraction following a She said this would play out similar to extent of the risks involved.
Asia’s syariah and environmental, social and 17.1% decline in GDP reported for Q2’20 due when the Islamic banking was first introduced
corporate governance (ESG) sectors to the enforcement of the MCO between by the central bank, which resulted in the It also reminded investors to ask for and
yesterday. Employees Provident Fund reducing its review the contents of the registered prospectus
position in the gaming sector over time. or an information memorandum to understand
In addition, Eng pointed out that the the nature and risks of their investment.
development in the movement restriction Lim said fund managers might be
measure could influence Bank Negara interested in the sector from a valuation CIMB partners Shopmatic
Malaysia’s (BNM) decision on the Overnight perspective but from a liquidity standpoint to support SMEs
Policy Rate (OPR), contingent on the Covid- the counter is compromised which translates in two-month campaign
19 data, on how long the MCO 2.0 will last and into a lower allocation to such stock by the
fund manager. PETALING JAYA: CIMB Bank Bhd and CIMB
Islamic Bank Bhd have launched “CIMB CNY Go
“ESG could even have the same impact, Digital” offers for small and medium enterprise
the company might have good earnings but (SME) customers, which will help SMEs to
the allocation may be reduced due to the ESG increase their brand presence online and connect
consideration and this may affect the overall to customers seamlessly, while streamlining
liquidity of the stock.” human resource tasks more efficiently.

Advancecon Infra has more than 25 years of experience in civil engineering and infrastructure works. – ADVANCECON WEBSITE PIX The two-month campaign runs in conjunction
with the Chinese New Year festive season. It
Advancecon secures RM60.58m ECRL subcontract started on Jan 15 and lasts until March 15.

PETALING JAYA: Advancecon Holdings Bhd Advancecon told Bursa Malaysia yesterday financed with internally generated funds CIMB’s partner, Shopmatic, a leading e-
has received a letter of acceptance from China that the contract is for the proposed and/or external borrowings. commerce provider in Southeast Asia, enables
Communications Construction (ECRL) Sdn construction and completion of subgrade SMEs to increase online sales via Shopmatic’s
Bhd for a subcontract for the East Coast Rail works of package 3, section 4 for the rail Advancecon said it expects the contract to B2C platform to reach a wider audience. At the
Link project for a total sum of RM60.58 project which will run from March 1, 2021 contribute positively to its future earnings for same time, BusinessHR, an integrated cloud-
million via its wholly owned subsidiary, until April 15, 2023. the duration of the contract and it will not based HR management system, is designed to
Advancecon Infra Sdn Bhd. have any effect on its share capital or automate and simplify management of human
It disclosed that the contract will be substantial shareholders’ shareholdings. resource for SMEs.

With Shopmatic’s services, SMEs can easily
set up a fully integrated website in 30 minutes
and at the same time, enjoy 50% off on a 12-
month subscription plan on the Shopmatic
platform. At the same time, SMEs can automate
and simplify HR tasks, such as payroll, leave and
claims while taking advantage of discounts of up
to 28% and a three-month fee waiver when they
subscribe to the BusinessHR platform

CIMB Group commercial banking CEO
Victor Lee Meng Teck said since the onset of the
Covid pandemic last year, it has been offering
ecommerce and digitalisation solutions for its
customers.

“With the recent implementation of the
MCO, we feel that it is our duty to continue this
programme so that more SMEs can take
advantage of going digital, now with even bigger
savings. The CIMB CNY Go Digital campaign
will help SME customers leverage the
professional capabilities of the Shopmatic and
BusinessHR platforms,” he said.

CIMB is also offering free monthly webinars
for customers to learn more about the two
solutions. Held from Jan 22 onwards, SMEs will
be guided on how they can scale up their
businesses through these platforms.

14 theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | JANUARY 27, 2021 FOLLOW @thesundaily
SUNBIZ ON TWITTER

S. Korea posts worst growth in 2 decades

o GDP shrinks 1% in 2020 but central bank says country Still, South Korea is expected to be among the toughened social distancing rules in recent weeks.
is expected to be among the OECD’s best performers countries in the OECD group of developed South Korea has shown signs of recovery from
economies least affected by the pandemic in
SEOUL: South Korea recorded its worst growth contracted 1% in 2020 from a year earlier, the 2020. the virus downturn and the central bank in
in more than two decades in 2020, the central Bank of Korea said, citing weak private spending November forecast the economy to grow 3% in
bank said yesterday, but it is expected to be and exports. In the fourth quarter of 2020, the South’s 2021.
among the best-performing OECD economies in economy – the world’s 12th largest – grew 1.1%
the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. It marks the worst annual growth since 1998, from the previous quarter, data showed, marking The South has largely contained its
when the South Korean economy shrank 5.1% in a second consecutive quarter of growth amid the coronavirus outbreak – while the pandemic has
The country’s gross domestic product the aftermath of the Asian financial crisis. pandemic. killed more than two million people worldwide –
with widespread testing and contact-tracing.
The central bank said exports expanded 5.2%
in the fourth quarter from three months earlier, But authorities tightened social distancing
offsetting a slump in private consumption due to rules late last year after case numbers began to
rise. – AFP

Bitcoin price surge continues MSCI removes
5 Chinese firms
Bitcoin has reached new all-time high levels to trade above $35,000, from global index
as the world’s largest cryptocurrency continues its 2020 price surge
BANGALORE: MSCI Inc said it will remove five
Bitcoin price (US$) Jan 6: $35,842 Chinese companies from its flagship global
Advances as much as 6%, equity index as of the end of today in the
35,000 surpassing previous high absence of an update on a Trump
set on Jan 3 administration order banning Americans from
Dec 17: $19,511 investing in certain Chinese companies.
Dec 31: $28,946
30,000 Reaches peak, Increase of The five companies – CGN Power Co, China
before losing around 400% National Chem, China National Nuclear Power,
70% of its value since start of year, China Shipbuilding Industry and Inspur
25,000 over course of amid heightened International – will be removed from the MSCI
following year interest from ACWI Index, relevant non-market
bigger investors capitalization weighted indexes and custom
20,000 indexes.

15,000 May 20 MSCI said on Monday it will delete the
10,000 Exceeds securities if there is no fresh guidance from the
$2,000 for Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) by
first time 12pm ET on Jan 26. OFAC is an agency within
since 2009 the US Treasury department, which is
launch responsible for enforcing sanctions.

5,000 President Joe Biden, who took office last
week, is yet to spell out plans for Trump’s
0 2018 2019 2020 2021 executive order forcing the divestment of the
2017 Chinese securities, but can easily revoke it.

Sources: Bloomberg, CoinDesk, The Economist © GRAPHIC NEWS Former president Trump had banned
Americans from investing in Chinese
Today’s cryptocash not sustainable solution: BoE chief companies that the Defense Department says
have ties to the military, an assertion many of
LONDON: None of today’s cryptocash such as “I don’t think digital currencies as originally Christine Lagarde said earlier this month that the companies deny and which China’s
Bitcoin is ready to become a sustainable formulated are it,“ he added. she envisaged a “digital euro” within five years. government has said lacks evidence. – Reuters
global digital reference currency, Bank of
England chief Andrew Bailey told the World He cited high volatility, risk of use in But Janet Yellen, chosen by the new United Indonesia increases
Economic Forum on Monday. criminal enterprises and general opacity as States president Joe Biden as the next economic
obstacles to current digital currencies treasury secretary, said last week that she was recovery budget
“Have we landed on the design, becoming the global digital reference. concerned cryptomoney was “mainly used” to
governance and arrangements for what I finance illegal activities. JAKARTA: Indonesia has raised its budget for
might call a lasting digital currency? No, I don’t The Bank of England and the Treasury are the National Economic Recovery programme to
think we’re there yet,“ he told a roundtable looking at the feasibility of issuing their own Bitcoin saw its price skyrocket earlier this 553.09 trillion rupiah (RM159 billion), increasing
discussion at the annual economic meeting, digital currency, to allow people to make year to a historic high of nearly US$42,000 fiscal support for a country struggling to
which this year abandoned the snows of sterling electronic payments without (RM170,000). contain its coronvirus outbreak, a minister said
Davos for a virtual format. involving banks. yesterday.
It has since fallen back to around
President of the European Central Bank US$34,000. – AFP “In plenary cabinet meeting and in other
meetings, we’ve decided the size to be 553.09
China, New Zealand ink upgraded trade agreement trillion rupiah. It means the government sees
that economic recovery in 2021 needs a similar
WELLINGTON: China and New Zealand “China remains one of our most important Under its new deal with Wellington, China support than in 2020,“ Airlangga Hartarto,
signed a deal that upgrades their existing free trade partners...For this to take place during will also open up sectors such as aviation, Indonesia’s chief economic minister, told a
trade pact yesterday, giving exports from the the global economic crisis bought about by education and finance. In exchange, New business forum.
Pacific nation greater access to the world’s Covid-19 makes it particularly important,“ Zealand will increase visa quotas for Chinese
second-largest economy. Ardern said at a news conference. language teachers and tour guides, Xinhua The previously approved budget for the
news agency reported yesterday. programme in 2021 was 372.3 trillion rupiah,
New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda The agreement expands an existing trade although authorities have said this may swell
Ardern confirmed the signing of an expanded deal with China and ensures it remains fit for New Zealand was the first developed after President Joko Widodo announced he
trade deal with China, noting its significance purpose for another decade, New Zealand country to sign a free trade agreement with wanted to run the mass vaccination campaign
amid the pandemic. trade minister Damien O’Connor said. China in 2008, and has long been touted by for free.
Beijing as an exemplar of Western
The agreement comes as Beijing seeks to Under the new deal, tariffs for many of engagement. In 2020, the government allocated 692.5
establish itself as a strong advocate of New Zealand’s mostly commodities-based trillion rupiah for the programme, which
multilateralism following a bruising trade war exports, which include dairy, timber and China is now New Zealand’s largest trading included the upgrading of hospitals and
with the United States and as the coronavirus seafood, will be either removed or cut. partner, with annual two-way trade of over provision of medical equipment and services to
keeps international borders closed. Compliance costs will also be reduced. NZ$32 billion (RM87 billion). – Reuters fight the pandemic, but spent only about
579.78 trillion rupiah.

In his presentation, Airlangga unveiled plans
to quadruple health spending to 104.7 trillion
rupiah.

The authorities have also increased the
budget for social assistance from 110.2 trillion
rupiah to 150.96 trillion rupiah.

At the same forum, Febrio Kacaribu, a
finance ministry official, estimated the fiscal
deficit for 2021 would be 5.7% of gross
domestic product, unchanged from the
ministry’s previous outlook. – Reuters

15theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | JANUARY 27, 2021
LIFESTYLE

CELEBRITY CAUSES Big Stories Bongkud- being honest with yourself, someone
Namaus’ film out there might find it relatable. It’s
█ BY JASON LIM about finding that genuine
premiere in Ranau connection with your audiences.
THERE is a clear sense of in 2016. – PICTURE The criminalisation of dissent
urgency for activism in brought by the act of protest and
Nadira Ilana’s work as a COURTESY OF activism is interesting. What is your
filmmaker and human rights JEREMIAH understanding of freedom of
advocate. She feels the need to create SEBASTIAN speech and expression?
conversation surrounding what a Protest in all its forms is integral to a
Malaysian identity is, on her own Freedom from fear functioning democracy. To be an
terms as an East Malaysian. activist means to defend our freedom
o Sabahan filmmaker and human rights advocate Nadira Ilana speaks to and the freedom of others. People like
In that process of exploring her theSun about the language of ‘riot’ and the freedom of speech and these are often called disrupters, but
identity, she produced two of her expression who are our nation’s founding fathers
best-known documentaries, The if not disrupters themselves?
Silent Riot (2012) and Big Stories You mentioned in previous
Bongkud-Namaus (2016), while interviews that censorship is not
championing a better and more doing the Malaysian film industry
inclusive cultural representation of any good. What do you think of the
Borneo-Malaysians in the national future of film and filmmaking in
narrative, as well as defending free Malaysia?
speech and expression at the frontier If art is a mirror to our society, then
of filmmaking. censorship is a mirror to our
administration. As filmmakers and
“As a Sabahan filmmaker with artists, we are inspired by the beauty
Kadazan-Dusun heritage, making a and realities of this country but we
film is the difference whether our are not given the respect when
native languages and customs perish. expression winds up being a guessing
It’s fun because you get to build game of what the government wants
worlds but there’s also a need for it to us to say.
be a representation that is relative to
our autonomy. The recent censorship of
Malaysian filmmaker Chong Keat
“Mass media in any country is Aun’s Story of Southern Islet and the
often driven by the status quo, that response to Namewee’s films are
often have had histories of oppressing disheartening. Banning films during
others but we’re finding now that a pandemic and when cinemas are
globally, the conversation is shut only adds salt to our wounds.
switching to elevate minority voices
in a bid for parity. What I strive to do Censorship is redundant,
is to present those who would considering we have the internet and
otherwise not get a chance to be seen, streaming platforms. The purpose of
a chance at reclaiming their dignity. cinema is to broaden our minds so
whatever measures we have for films
“It’s a race to preserve my cultural should be towards developing a
heritage, and films are an important mature, thinking society. Cinema has
way to say, ‘Hello, I exist.’” a much larger capacity to unite
people than it does to divide.
Since you first started in the Nadira did a year of residency in Ranau, Sabah for Big Stories Bongkud-
industry, how do you see East Namaus. – PICTURE COURTESY OF MAHIRA KHAIRIA It is known that many
Malaysian films being perceived? international artistes won’t perform
When I first started out, people would stories and I trust that initiatives like psychological truth or in Malaysia anymore, fearing
ask: ‘Why do you keep talking about these will pave the way for a more emotional truth, in order cancellation of their concerts. In the
Sabah? Why can’t you talk about inclusive Malaysia. to write and film a good process of maintaining a certain
Malaysia?’ It was because at the time, story? image of Malaysia through
the national narrative was almost One day soon, I hope that the I don’t know about the censorship, we have wound up
exclusively Peninsular-centric. industry at large will, too. ‘truth’ because they’re
Storytelling is a blend of fact and just perspectives at the hurting our creative
At first, people in the Peninsular fiction. Is it necessary to embellish end of the day. You economy and making
didn’t really know how to respond to the truth, be it factual truth, have to trust that by our country look
my films, which were set in Sabah, bad.
because many were not exposed to
East Malaysia. We contribute Nadira recently completed a
immensely to the nation’s economy, short film titled Tadau om
so it does feel unnatural that we have
to fight for that space. Vuhan Kopisoomo (Were the
Sun and the Moon to Meet)
I learned that there are right and and is working on her first
wrong ways to tell stories, that
inclusivity has a process and that feature film, Wilderness. –
requires listening, trust and respect. PICTURE COURTESY OF
While the industry in KL still struggles
at times to relinquish that control, NADIRA ILANA
independent platforms such as the
Freedom Film Fest, Pesta Filem Kita
and BMW Shorties have been
incredibly supportive of Borneo

Compliance with health guidelines influenced by family and friends

AHEAD of the fear of contracting imposed by authorities. This In light of these findings, the
Covid-19 or personal convictions, finding was consistent across all researchers believe that pandemic
it is the influence of close relatives age groups, all genders, and all strategies should be rethought. In
that seems to have the greatest countries, regardless of the severity particular, social network
impact on whether an individual of the pandemic and the level of applications should be used to
respects social distancing health guidelines. signal to one’s close acquaintances
mandates. That was the finding of not only whether they wish to
a team of British researchers, who The researchers also found that benefit from vaccination, but the
see social networks as the key to people who were particularly power of social networks can be
better compliance with health connected to their country were used to show one’s social circle
restrictions and greater acceptance more likely to adhere to lockdown that they are complying with the
of vaccination. rules, reports AFP-Relaxnews. rules imposed by public
Researchers at the University of authorities. Which would be more
Nottingham, in partnership with “Public policies are on the effective than showing outrage for
experts in collective behaviour wrong track: We see scientists and those not respecting these rules.
from British, French, German and politicians trying to boost the
American universities, public’s approval of the measures, The researchers also mention
investigated the motivations of so that vaccination campaigns and the importance of using trusted
citizens in complying with public If you follow health restrictions to the letter, chances are your family and lockdowns get the support of the personalities to deliver public
policies and other health-related friends will do the same. citizens, but approval does not messages with an emphasis on
rules. They analysed data from mean compliance! You may make collective values, as is the case in
6,674 individuals from 114 Published in the British Journal were not associated with being the up your own mind about the some Asian countries such as
countries to determine the role of of Psychology, their work revealed most compliant with the rules. The measures, or listen to experts, but China. “Our message to
social networks, as well as that simply approving of health most diligent were those whose eventually, what you do depends policymakers is that even when the
relatives, in preventing the spread restrictions, or being afraid of social circle – family and friends in on what your close friends do,” challenge is to practise social
of Covid-19. getting infected with Covid-19 particular – respected the rules explains Ophelia Deroy, professor distancing, social closeness is the
of philosophy of mind and solution,” the team concludes.
neuroscience in Germany.

16 theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | JANUARY 27, 2021
FASHION

█ BY ANANSA JACOB Traditional chic

SPRING is a time for fresh o Four local labels unleash
beginnings and change, head-turning collections that
focusing on removing the old blend heritage with modern
and welcoming the new. What aesthetics
better way to greet the Year of the Ox
than with a brand new, fashionable
festive wardrobe.

Four local designers embrace the
season with collections that draw
inspiration from elements ranging
from nature and Chinese tradition, to
friendship.

1. Brian Khoo with intuitive placement of gold
Brian Khoo Lunar 2021 collection touches distinctly captures the style
features surreal natural landscapes, of the renowned Japanese Kintsugi
lush garden vignettes and blossom (golden repair) technique.
motifs, sprawling across dewy satins
and cloudy crepes. The layered Khoo also worked with Lorraine
exercise of contrasting piping details Lee of TALEE Studio from Borneo in
Sabah on intricate, handmade knot
designs that appear throughout the
collection, which also introduces a
selection of menswear and
childrenswear, including reversible
girl’s dresses.

2. Celeste Thoi (below) Keith
Thoi’s Flora-scence Chinese New Kee Couture
Year (CNY) collection features a CNY 2021
capsule wardrobe inspired by collection,
amazing colours and shapes of spring The Scent of
garden Keukenhof in the Spring. –
Netherlands, one of the world’s PICTURES
largest and most colourful flower COURTESY
gardens, which she visited prior to the OF KEITH
pandemic. Thoi wanted to capture KEE
and share her experience through the

Brian Khoo (above) Celeste Thoi
2021 Lunar Flora-scence Chinese
collection New Year 2021
featuring knot collection. – PICTURES
designs by COURTESY OF CELESTE
TALEE Studio. THOI
– PICTURES (left) Melinda Looi
COURTESY OF Cruise 2021
BRIAN KHOO collection entitled
Pengyou. –
PICTURES
COURTESY OF
MELINDA LOOI

carefree floral prints in 3. Keith Kee collection is The garments themselves
the collection, which Keith Kee Couture’s CNY 2021 made of luxurious Thai silk, Shantung are colourful and multi-
includes every style of cut, collection, The Scent of Spring, is a silk and Organza in soft colours. Pink, textural, resembling the diverse
from form-fitting modern take on the sophisticated blue and yellow are the main colours people of the world.
silhouettes, some with styles of ancient Chinese empresses. of the collection, adding a whimsical, Vivid colours on cotton are
peplum, to chill and relaxed Ancient Chinese elements and lace pastel touch to any family gathering. married with lace and batik.
A-line styles, as well as details are widely used throughout 4. Melinda Looi Cheongsams are fun yet elegantly
roomy tops and bottoms the collection, which features short Melinda Looi Cruise 2021 collection, paired with flowy chiffon skirts that
for those who want to enjoy fashionable qipao dresses in a variety themed Pengyou, sees Looi’s close can be styled in multiple ways. Easy
their Lunar New Year feast of styles. friends modelling for the campaign. wrap dresses are ideal for lazy days at
in comfort. home or to catch up over tea with
The Penang-based designer’s friends. Then, there are cheeky
shorts-and-top combos and flowy
dresses for relaxation.

17theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | JANUARY 27, 2021
TECH TODAY

Animal Crossing: New Horizons was a top seller. Gamers streaming their play on the Twitch platform. A woman plays Ring Fit Adventure.

Perfect match
for gamers

o Pandemic boosts video game publisher association Playing Nintendo’s Animal Crossing was a lockdown diversion for many people last year.
variety of video games SELL.
The game’s popularity has even them together. video game in 2020.
YOU’RE stuck in lockdown He said parents suddenly seen US lawmakers join in matches The game works with the Switch Board and card games
but that doesn’t mean you confronted with being confined with broadcast on Twitch in an effort to If chess boards and Uno cards
can’t visit a tropical island, a their children looked to video games reach young voters last year. console, whose controllers are slotted graced the tables of many
space station or have games to find options for family into a Pilates ring and a leg strap. households more frequently during
night with your friends – certain entertainment, and that Animal For French game publisher lockdowns, their video games
video games have filled the need of Crossing was an ideal game for Nicolas Vignolles it is the exchanges Once equipped, players can fight versions did as well.
the world’s confined for a bit of parent-child interaction. between players that explains the against monsters or be guided
distraction, adventure and socialising game’s popularity. through fitness routines by the A sign of that is a collection of
and achieved unexpected success Nintendo’s chief in France, television. classic board games for Switch was
during the pandemic. Philippe Lavoue, has acknowledged “Among Us is at the intersection of among the top sellers for the console
Animal Crossing the firm’s lucky timing of releasing the social networking and video games,” The closure of gyms along with in France last year, Nintendo told Le
No adversaries or competition in game just as many people were he said, noting that nearly one in two lockdowns fuelled a spike in sales, Figaro.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons needing an escape. gamers in France say that video leading to shortages last year after
which came out in March for games help them create social consumers snapped up four million “The big lesson of confinement
Nintendo’s Switch console. Instead “But we were happy to have relationships. units between October 2019 and July was that video games have broken
players explore an island, collecting helped confined people feel less 2020. definitively the stereotype of a game
fruit and making tools and furniture, lonely and to escape mentally,” he “That didn’t exist before ... This FIFA 2021 that can cause people to withdraw
trading with others, as the seasons told the French newspaper Le Figaro. underlying trend has accelerated The halt to many football matches and become isolated,” said Nicolas
slowly change. Among Us with confinement,” said Vignolles. and the postponement of the Euro Vignolles.
The success of Among Us in 2020 was Ring Fit Adventure championship may have sparked
This version of the game certainly a big surprise for the industry as the If working out and playing video interest among fans to play virtually. “They were an incredibly effective
hit the spot with players hungry for a title drew little attention when it was games are usually two contradictory According to GfK, FIFA 2021 from antidote to isolation.” – AFP-
bit of light-hearted diversion. It originally released in 2018. activities, Ring Fit Adventure brings Electronic Arts was the best-selling Relaxnews
powered to the top of the sales charts
in the United States in March 2020, But its developers at US studio
and was among top sellers in other Innersloth kept refining their
countries as well. It was the number concept, which paid off when some
two title in Europe for 2020 overall, prominent game streamers on
according to GfK. Twitch began to play it on the
platform in mid-2020.
“The smashing success of Animal
Crossing is explained by two factors: By November the game had half a
one is an underlying trend towards billion players, according to
family games and the other is the Superdata, which monitors the
short-term factor of the gaming industry.
confinement,” said Nicolas Vignolles,
head of the association of French The online multiplayer game
takes place on a space ship. Most
people are crewmates but several are
imposters who are out to kill or at
least block crewmates from carrying
out their assigned tasks. Lively
debates take place as crewmates seek
to unmask the imposters.

Ransomware took heavy toll on US in 2020: researchers

The ransomware attacks affected 113 federal, state and municipal governments, RANSOMWARE attacks took a heavy (emergency) services were to Emsisoft.
560 health facilities and 1,681 schools, colleges and universities last year. toll on the United States last year with interrupted,” the report said. The researchers said hackers are
more than 2,000 victims in
government, education and health The security firm said it was stepping up by not only encrypting
care, security researchers, reports unable to estimate the losses from the but stealing data which may be sold
AFP-Relaxnews. attacks due to a lack of data but that it to competing firms or various
was “safe to assume that the total cost governments.
The study released Monday by the runs to multiple billions.”
security firm Emsisoft said “We anticipate there will be more
ransomware attacks – which encrypt “The numbers of attacks were cases of data theft in 2021 than there
and disable computer systems while little changed from 2019 but there were in 2020,” the report said. “Like
demanding a ransom – affected 113 were more successful attacks on the legitimate businesses, criminal
federal, state and municipal healthcare sector, including incidents enterprises adopt strategies that are
governments, 560 health facilities affecting groups with multiple proven to work, and data theft has
and 1,681 schools, colleges and hospitals,” according to Emsisoft indeed been proven to work.”
universities last year. spokesman Brett Callow.
Emsisoft’s chief technical officer
“The attacks caused significant, Similarly, Callow said, “the Fabian Wosar said much of the risk
and sometimes life-threatening, education sector saw a similar from ransomware can be eliminated
disruption: ambulances carrying number of attacks, but more schools with preventive steps.
emergency patients had to be were affected due to bigger districts
redirected, cancer treatments were hit.” “Proper levels of investment in
delayed, lab test results were people, processes and IT would result
inaccessible, hospital employees The targets included large in significantly fewer ransomware
were furloughed and 911 regional cities and municipalities, incidents and those incidents which
major hospital systems and large did occur would be less severe, less
colleges and universities, according disruptive and less costly,” he said.

18 theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | JANUARY 27, 2021 WiFi 6E... what
TECH TODAY difference will it
make for me?
Application of the moment
THE new WiFi 6E wireless
oToonMe is making waves connection standard, opened up
onTwitter – how wary by the FCC last year, is rolling out.
should we be? It will allow connections to take
advantage of the 6 GHz frequency
IT’S without a doubt the The privacy policy. ToonMe may indeed application, also accessible via its band, which offers more speeds
application of the moment on application collect certain personal data from site, also indicates that it uses and possibilities. The very first
Twitter. A big hit on the social is owned the user, as is the case on Facebook “special face recognition compatible devices have just been
network, ToonMe can make us by Linerock in particular. Name, e-mail address technologies”, which, in the event of announced.
look like we’re characters from a Pixar Investment and “social network information” hacking, could be dangerous for
movie. On the platform, regular web LTD, whose may be retained. ToonMe notes that internet users who have used their WiFi 6E is an extension of the
users and celebrities alike are having best-known “For non-registered users and users own photograph. WiFi 6 standard that appeared in
a laugh as they post photos of application who don’t share their results within 2020, the other name given to the
themselves, seemingly unconcerned is Photo the Services, the original photos and The success of the application has Wi-Fi 802.11ax that succeeded
about sharing their personal data, Lab. results are automatically removed encouraged “clones” or copycats, 802.11ac. It promises in principle
which is a very real issue. actors and singers and other from our servers by two weeks after prompting ToonMe to post an alert to quadruple the speeds to reach
celebrities. the last interaction,” while registered on its site: “These fake ‘ToonMe’ the theoretical 4.8 Gb/s. Beyond
Having your own Pixar or Disney- users must request the removal of apps resemble not just our name but the speed, the improved range of
style avatar is now possible, but it Internet users are succumbing to their images from the support team even our icon as well.” One more Wi-Fi 6 also facilitates the
doesn’t come totally free. On Twitter, this new social network trend, much or delete them themselves. The reason to use any such application simultaneous connection of more
users have been having a blast as they previously did with the with caution. – AFP-Relaxnews devices. WiFi 6E seems very
playing around with ToonMe, an FaceApp application, which allows promising ... at least in theory.
application that’s been all the rage in them to ‘age themselves’ 60 years.
recent days, making it one of the most Just like that automatic image- The use of the 6 GHz band will
downloaded apps on the App Store editing application developed in enable even higher throughput
and Play Store. With just a few clicks Russia, ToonMe offers a free version rates, but also ever-increasing
and a photo, the application lets you with advertising. The “pro” version transfer volumes, less latency and
turn yourself into a character from costs US$4.99 (RM20) per month. more devices to be supported.
animated movies. The keyword Finally, in terms of security, WiFI
“Pixar” even appeared in the top However, while this application 6E should help democratise the
related tweets though the studio is not may appear safe at first glance, users WPA3 security protocol, for better
involved in this new application. should still pay attention to the encryption and stronger
protection of its connection.
While Twitter users shared their
own photographs, some had fun The first certified equipment
seeing what this transformation was unveiled for CES 2021, starting
would look like with politicians, with the first routers from Linksys.
The very first compatible
Artificial intelligence spotted on everything at CES 2021 smartphone is the Samsung
Galaxy S21 Ultra, unveiled last
IF there’s one thing to take away from some kind of artificial “intelligence”, week by the South Korean
the 2021 edition of the Consumer which, in reality, is often an ability to manufacturer. The next-
Electronics Show (CES), it’s that record and convey user habits. That, generation iPhone will probably
artificial intelligence seemed to be for example, is seen in products as also be compatible. – AFP-
omnipresent in the technologies and diverse as a toothbrush, which sends Relaxnews
devices presented. Whether a brushing quality reports to your
marketing argument or genuine smartphone, or in a massage chair, Once it’s rolled out, WiFi 6E will offer
technological progress, AI has which can adapt its technique to user unprecedented wireless speeds,
become an inevitable part of many needs expressed by voice command. provided, of course, that
new applications, TVs and vehicle In-car AI compatible devices are available.
dashboards – not to mention Finally, cars were also on the agenda
toothbrushes and massage chairs! at CES, in particular with cabin
technology that’s ever more
Smart TVs Thanks to its new processor, the Panasonic JZ2000 can analyse the picture every spectacular and connected. Here
Thanks to new, ultra-high- second and automatically adjust picture quality. too, artificial intelligence has a role to
performance processors, play, coming to life onscreen with
manufacturers are promising this “focal point” of the image. upscaling (converting HD content to custom suggestions, or via driving
optimal image quality thanks to Similarly, Panasonic showcased a 4K resolution onscreen, for example) comfort systems, not to mention
built-in artificial intelligence. Sony, new TV model that automatically or for recommending shows for entertainment for both driver and
for example, unveiled a new range of calibrates the image in relation to the viewers to watch. passengers. Mercedes and BMW, for
TVs capable of anticipating which kind of content displayed (movie, Smart objects example, presented future
part of the screen viewers are likely to sport, concert, video game, etc.). Almost all the connected devices touchscreen interfaces with
be looking at, in order to Samsung and LG also embraced presented at CES seemed to boast integrated AI. – AFP-Relaxnews
systematically bring out the best in artificial intelligence, whether for

19theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | JANUARY 27, 2021
FEATURE

Turn back time

oStudy hints at way to halt
decline as we age

THE march of time can be senior author Katrin Andreasson told New research hints at a cause - and possible solution - for some of the ailments and decline that often come with age.
unkind to the human body AFP.
but new research hints at a conditions. And neither of the experimental “While intriguing, this is early-
cause – and possible solution “In this study, we identified the “This would apply to most age- compounds have been tested in stage research carried out in mice,”
– for some of the ailments and EP2 receptor ... as the receptor that associated inflammatory diseases,” humans, so it is unclear whether they noted Susan Kohlhaas, director of
decline that often come with age. leads to energy depletion and including Alzheimer’s, could be toxic, although no harmful research at Alzheimer’s Research UK,
maladaptive inflammation,” added atherosclerosis and arthritis, she told side effects were seen in the mice who was not involved in the study.
Scientists have long known that Andreasson, a professor of neurology AFP, saying she was “very excited” tested.
cognitive decline as we get older and at Stanford University. about the possible applications. “While the results deserve further
specific age-related diseases But the research is still in its early Andreasson said her team is now follow-up, there are many steps to go
including Alzheimer’s are linked to Having isolated the role played by stages, and there are several working on several questions thrown before we will know if this is likely to
inflammation, but they are still PGE2, Andreasson and her team then unanswered questions. It is not yet up by the research, including be a successful strategy for treatment
uncovering precisely why and how set out to see if there was a way to clear how much PGE2 is too much, understanding more fully the of dementia,” she added.
this is the case. counteract its negative effects. and how it accumulates over a mechanisms that produce cognitive
lifetime. decline and investigating the role of “We need to see experiments in
Research published in the journal They administered to mice two cell metabolism functions in ageing. environments that closely mirror the
Nature pinpoints the role of a experimental compounds that can human brain.” – AFP-Relaxnews
messenger hormone found in much block the EP2 receptor and found it
higher levels in older people and reversed the metabolic problems
mice than their younger seen in older macrophages –
counterparts. restoring their more youthful
behaviour and preventing destructive
When the hormone was blocked inflammatory activity.
in older mice, they were able to
perform as well as more youthful They found similar effects in mice
rodents in tests of their memory and that were genetically modified with
navigation. deletions of the EP2 receptor.

The researchers found that higher Older mice that received the
levels of the hormone affected the compounds or had the receptor
metabolism of immune cells called deleted from their genes performed
macrophages, prompting them to as well as young mice when tested for
store energy rather than consume it. navigation and spatial memory, both
of which deteriorate with ageing and
That effectively starved the cells, diseases like Alzheimer’s.
sending them into a damaging
inflammatory hyperdrive associated “Our study suggests that the
with age-related cognitive decline development of maladaptive
and several age-related diseases. inflammation and cognitive decline
in ageing may not be a static or
The hormone, prostaglandin E2 permanent condition, but rather that
(PGE2), “is a major regulator of all it can be reversed,” the study says.
types of inflammation, both good and
bad, and its effect depends on the Andreasson said the findings,
receptor that is activated,” the study’s while still preliminary, could have
implications for a broad range of

‘Fact-checkers’ proposed for Nobel
peace prize

WITH truth famously known as the nominated for the Nobel, IFCN
“first casualty of war”, a Norwegian chief,” Baybars Orsek said in an email
parliamentarian announced to the organisation’s members.
Thursday that she is nominating In his inaugural speech last week,
“fact-checkers” for this year’s Nobel the new US President Joe Biden spoke
Peace Prize. of an “attack on democracy and on
Announcing the nomination on truth”, and said citizens and “leaders”
Twitter, Trine Skei Grande, a former have a duty to “defend the truth and
leader of Norway’s Liberal Party, to defeat the lies.”
noted that “we live in a time when Biden also spoke of a “painful
fighting lies is so important that lesson” from recent weeks and
@JoeBiden mentioned it in his months saying “there are truths and
speech yesterday”. there are lies”, a rejection of his
“This year, I have nominated fact predecessor Donald Trump, who
The cultured meat promises a more natural texture and taste. checkers for the Nobel Peace Prize. repeatedly disputed the results of the
They need our support,” Skei Grande presidential election and popularised
Researchers have developed a new added. the expression “fake news” when
form of cultured meat Specifically, she proposed the speaking of media outlets.
International Fact-Checking Network According to its website, the IFCN
(IFCN) for the famous peace prize. currently brings together 79 certified
The IFCN is a network of several organisations that have signed on to
dozen media and organisations – its code of principles.
CANADIAN researchers have form of cultured meat based on a of Biomedical Engineering at including AFP – In addition to AFP’s fact-checking
developed a new form of cultured technique adapted from the McMaster University. active in fact- service, the Washington Post Fact
meat that offers a taste and texture method used to grow tissue for checking Checker and Reuters are also
similar to that of traditional meat. human transplants. They say this This new method was tested by worldwide. signatories, as well as South African
Made from rabbit cells, this fake or substitute meat “promises more making meat from available mouse “It’s such website Africa Check and fact-
synthetic meat could eventually natural flavour and texture than cell lines. But the researchers say an checking organisations in Asia and
replace meat as we know it, other alternatives to traditional they then made and cooked a overwhelming South America.
particularly given the crisis in meat meat from animals”. sample of cultured meat created feeling of Tens of thousands of people,
supply and the consequences of from rabbit cells. “It felt and tasted humility and among them parliamentarians and
meat production and consumption Published in the journal Cells just like meat,” said pride to ministers from all countries, former
on the environment. Tissues Organs, the method used by Selvaganapathy. be laureates and certain university
researchers at McMaster University professors, are eligible to submit a
While there is some debate as to in Canada is based on stacking very “Meat production right now is nomination for the Nobel Peace
how to name and label the many thin layers of muscle and fat cells not sustainable. There has to be an Prize.
meat alternatives that have grown in the lab to form “slabs of alternative way of creating meat,” The Nobel Institute in Oslo
emerged in recent months – and meat.” The researchers say they can said the researcher. The team accepts all valid nominations
still others point to the fact that replicate the marbling and fat believes that the new method can sent in before the Jan 31
these alternatives have nothing to content of any piece of meat with be adapted to beef, pork, or deadline.
do with meat – researchers are this new technique. chicken, and is suitable for large- The 2021
moving at breakneck speed to scale production. Peace Prize
develop new forms of cultured “Consumers will be able to buy winner will
meat, that is meats made primarily meat with whatever percentage of And if anyone thinks it just be announced in
from animal cells. fat they like – just like they do sounds like “science fiction”, the early October. –
with milk,” explains Ravi publication states that the Skei has nominated the International Fact-Checking AFP-Relaxnews
The latest find comes straight Selvaganapathy who worked on the researchers have already created a Network for the Nobel Peace Prize.
from Canada, where researchers project with Alireza Shahin- start-up to begin commercialising
say they have developed a new Shamsabadi, both from the School this new technique. – AFP-
Relaxnews

20 theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | JANUARY 27, 2021
FEATURE

█ BY ANANSA JACOB A light positive. Staying connected
in dark times While we could just tell you to 0 Strengthen family ties. Create a
AFTER a brief taste of
freedom late last year o All is not doom and gloom – here are some “keep calm and carry on”, here are daily schedule where everyone
with months of relaxed ways to stay positive amid the pandemic a list of ways in which you can help can spend time together. For
restrictions, almost the yourself and those around you family members who are living
entire country is back under a new challenged before, or have even 19 outbreak can be overwhelming, cope during these dark times. apart, stay connected through
round of movement control order had to comprehend. The fear and and understandably, many are Staying organised the phone, Zoom, Skype or
regulations. uncertainty of the ongoing Covid- finding it very difficult to stay 0 Form a daily routine. Creating a other long-distance methods.
0 Talk about your feelings.
It is a frustrating development, plan for each day, with set times Understand that loneliness,
especially for those looking for each task, can provide boredom, fear, anxiety, stress
forward to restarting plans that stability and comfort at a time of and panic are normal reactions
were derailed in 2020. Many are uncertainty. to a stressful situation.
also feeling the stress from a 0 If you are working from home, 0 Look out for your neighbours.
reduction in income or from losing you can create structure by The act of checking in on them
their job, or even having to return setting a start and finish time, (keeping two metres apart, of
to the office or to school despite allocating a specific space course) will not only make them
the rising number of new for work, and taking regular feel good, but will also make you
infections. breaks. feel good, reminding you that
0 For those who have to go to the there are others for whom this
It is challenging us all in ways office, set aside time during the predicament is even more
that we have never been weekend to clean the house, stressful.
shop for necessities, and even Staying motivated
Understand allocate some time for 0 Take up yoga or meditation. It
that loneliness, relaxation and self-care. can be a great way to calm down
boredom, fear, Staying healthy anxiety and to grow as a person
anxiety, stress 0 Get moving more. With a good – to develop acceptance,
and panic are workout app and for 30 minutes stillness and reflection.
normal a day, you can get fit in the 0 Adapt to new changes. Learn to
reactions to a comfort of your living room, accept and deal with challenges
stressful which is great for busy parents, and new tasks that may come
situation. people who want to avoid your way. Come up with
crowds, or those without a gym solutions that will help you
Asha Gill back on air with membership. handle your tasks in a more
the LITE Breakfast 0 Get better nutrition. Diets rich organised way.
in antioxidants, vitamins 0 Be more conscious about your
(such as B vitamins), minerals mental health. If 2020 has taught
(zinc and magnesium), fibre, us one thing, it is that it is alright
healthy fats (like omega-3s), and to take some time off and
other bioactive compounds, recharge our batteries. Don’t be
such as probiotics, have been afraid to take some time away
linked to better mental well- from work, or spend a few hours
being. a day by yourself without any
0 Start choosing more organic interruptions from friends or
foods for your diet. More family.
people, especially parents, will We hope that some of these
be looking for products that are suggestions will help motivate you
enjoyable but still nutritious. to look forward to 2021 with a little
Foods made with natural more positivity, and that you will
ingredients offer the best continue to stay healthy
nutrition with none of the throughout the challenges of the
dangers. coming weeks ahead.

SHE is one of the Malaysian entertainment What motivated you to get In France,
scenes most recognisable faces, thanks to back on radio? Gabriel is
her decades-long career as a veejay, deejay “I suppose the world of one of the
and travel show host. Now, Asha Gill graces [television] and broadcasting is most popular
the airwaves again as part of the LITE pretty much all I’ve known. I have names for
Breakfast team, together with JD. taken breaks in between to newborns.
raise my Little Man, work
Fans can enjoy insightful and on projects in different
interesting discussions on new industries, but it’s all
on-air segments such as Did been tied to
You Know, Plant communication,
Parenthood and Brimful learning and
Of Asha, every Monday growth somehow.
to Friday, from 6am “I had been
to 10am. They can ‘off-air’ for about
also stream the new five years, working
LITE Breakfast with Asha in the field of
and JD with the SYOK app. personal growth as a New parents are going for baby names
life coach and with a positive vibe
Asha shares some insights hypnotherapist. Things
into her career, as well as advice changed drastically in 2020
for those looking to emulate her and when I received the
achievements. call late in the year asking THE pandemic has brought out the desire goddess of the dawn) and Felix (Latin for
How did you enter the if I would consider coming to look on the positive side when it comes “happy”).
entertainment industry? back to radio – ‘yes’ was to the names given to newborns. In the
“I first started out working as an out of my mouth before I United States, there is a wave of babies And among this emerging optimism, the
assistant in Axis Films. I had been could blink. being called Alma, Vivienne, Aurora and number of newborns given names with
on a shoot with them as a ‘talent’. “There’s something Felix. A way of transmitting optimism and biblical roots remains constant and even
[Every] second I got, I bugged the about radio that feels like resisting the gloomy atmosphere of the increasing. Gabriel, for example, is one of
producer and the director for a ‘home’. moment with names that have meaning? the most popular names in France. In the
job. “I am over the moon that United States, the popularity of Gabriel
the LITE Breakfast team, According to the New York Times, “Baby- remains stable. “For comfort in hard times,
“I managed to annoy them so and JD, would have me join naming experts are reporting decided shifts people turn to faith,“ the chief executive
much they gave me an interview the morning gang.” in the name selection process.” Parents and founder of BabyName.com, Jennifer
and I got hired. That began my choose more original names, with a more Moss, explains to the New York Times. Elijah,
foray into the world of What advice would you spiritual meaning and depth, like the name Esther, Lilith and even Naomi have joined
production and I loved it.” give those looking to Alma for example. In Spanish, it means this trend.
What has your journey been follow in your footsteps? “soul”. The American newspaper notes that
like? “I would say whatever it is its popularity has increased by 37% in 2020. But how do the trending names
“Gosh, it’s been over 25 years you do, find your voice, forget In France, it is the third most given name in emerge? When they’re not from the Bible or
of weaving in and out behind about anything being perfect, Paris, for example. One hundred and fifty mythology, any source of inspiration is
the camera in production, in and just do it because you can nine newborns in the capital are now called possible, from television shows to the royal
front of the camera, only get better by doing. Alma. family of England. American magazine
switching to radio and back Asha Gill. – Good Housekeeping revealed in 2019 that
again. No straight road, COURTESY OF Other so-called “positive” names the name Charlotte had gone from 9th
more of a messy tango – ASTRO emerged in 2020 such as Zora, meaning place to 6th in four years and that its
and I’ve loved it.” dawn, up 40%, or Lucius, a derivative of increase had a close link with the birth of
“light” (+24%), Vivienne (from the Latin Princess Charlotte of Cambridge in 2015. –
Vivus meaning “alive”), Aurora (Roman AFP-Relaxnews

322 Notices 322 Notices 322 Notices 21theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | JANUARY 27, 2021
* SPORTS

Will they, won’t they?
THE world’s ongoing Key questions for troubled Tokyo Games
IN THE MATTER OF THE IN THE HIGH COURT OF MALAYA AT DALAM MAHKAMAH SESYEN DI coronavirus crisis and
COMPANIES ACT, 2016 KUALA LUMPUR SEREMBAN plunging public support in WHAT DO ATHLETESTHINK? (RM11b) because of costs linked to the
Japan have raised fears that Athlete pressure was seen as a delay and virus countermeasures.
AND IN THE STATE OF WILAYAH DALAM NEGERI SEMBILAN DARUL the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, postponed
IN THE MATTER OF WELLMAX PERSEKUTUAN, MALAYSIA KHUSUS, MALAYSIA last year and now due to start in July, driving force behind last year’s There are suggestions the final
(COMMERCIAL DIVISION) may be cancelled. postponement, with the Australian price-tag may be significantly higher,
RESOURCES SDN BHD COMPANIES WINDING UP WRIT NO: NA-A52NCvC-51-10/2020 and Canadian Olympic committees possibly making the event the most
(Company No.: NO. WA-28NCC-4-01/2021 ANTARA As Japanese and International pulling their teams out days before the expensive Summer Olympics in
In the matter of section 465 & 466 of Olympic Committee officials insist decision was made. history.
201701047308 (1261484-K)) the Companies Act, 2016 GOBINATHAN MUNIANDY the Games will go ahead, here are WHAT WOULD IT MEAN FOR
(Members’ Voluntary (NRIC: 700108-05-5319) the major questions surrounding This time, Australia, Canada and OLYMPIC SPORTS?
Winding-up) And Berniaga Atas Gaya Nama G.H. AUTO cancellation: the United States have come out in
In the matter of Companies (Winding- SERVICE (No. Syarikat: NS0022157-M) support of the Games, and Greek pole Experts say a cancellation would
Notice is hereby given Up) Rules 1972 WHAT ARE OFFICIALS SAYING? vault champion Katerina Stefanidi has have disastrous consequences for
pursuant to Section 439(2) of …PLAINTIF Japanese Prime Minister said she would prefer it to be held with individual sports.
the Companies Act, 2016 that And DAN Yoshihide Suga said last week he was no fans than not at all.
the Special Resolution set out In the matter of the Aspirasi 1. MOHAMAD JUFRI B. JAMAL “determined” to hold the Games this Many national and international
below was duly passed by the Bayu Sdn. Bhd. (Company No.: (No.K/P: 880430-23-5319) July, while a government spokesman Top US gymnast Simone Biles said sporting federations would find
members of the company on 200901034498 (877607-T)) [Berniaga atas gaya nama AP dismissed a report claiming officials the decision had to be based on themselves in financial danger, with
11st January 2021. GARAGE & AUTOPARTS No Syarikat: see cancellation as inevitable. “what’s safe for the world”, but added some relying on IOC payouts to
“That the company be wound BETWEEN NS0198705-A] International Olympic she was “hoping the Olympics can be survive.
up voluntarily and that WONG GLOBAL SEASONS CONSTRUCTION 2. ABDUL HAKIM BIN SALIM Committee president Thomas Bach put on, even if it means we’re in a
YIN YEE (F) (NRIC: 820223- 14- SDN. BHD. (No. K/P: 950201-01-5647) said there was “no reason bubble”. Athletes who have trained for
5922) of Kenanga Point Condo, (Company No.: 3. MURUGAN A/L RAMASAMY whatsoever” for the event not to go years to appear on the Olympic stage
Block B 24-7, Jalan Gelugor, 201301010805(1040642-T) (No K/P: 800509-05-5609) ahead, but also admitted it may But Japanese gymnastics star Kohei would find their hopes dashed, with
55200 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah 4.MOHAMAD HAZREEQ involve fewer fans, or even be held Uchimura sounded a note of caution, many unsure whether they’ll be able
Persekutuan be and is hereby … PETITIONERS …DEFENDAN-DEFENDAN behind closed doors. saying the event “can’t be held if the to qualify for the next Games, Paris
appointed the liquidator with AND IKLAN PENYAMPAIAN GANTI Decisions on whether to allow athletes and the people don’t feel the 2024.
power to act for the purpose of ASPIRASI BAYU SDN BHD Berkenaan dengan Writ Saman dan overseas fans, and how full venues same way”.
such winding-up. (Company No.: 200901034498 Pernyataan Tuntutan yang bertarikh 15 will be, are set to be taken in the WHAT WOULD IT COST? Cancellation would also deal a
AND NOTICE IS ALSO HEREBY (877607-T)) Oktober 2020 kepada:- coming months. blow to the Olympics’ image in an era
GIVEN THAT the creditors of 1. Abdul Hakim Bin Salim Tokyo 2020’s latest budget was when fewer cities have been coming
the abovementioned company … RESPONDENT (No. K/P: 950201-01-5647) revealed as US$15.8 billion (RM63b) in forward to host the costly Games. –
which is being wound up ADVERTISEMENT OF PETITION 2. Mohamad Hazreeq December – up US$2.8 billion AFP
voluntarily are required on or Notice is hereby given that a petition No 54 Jalan TJ 3/2B Senawang Link,
before 18th February 2021 to for the winding-up of the above- Kawasan Industri Tuanku Jaafar 3, BRIEFS Confident England ready
send their names and addresses named company by High Court was 71450 Sungai Gadut, Negeri Sembilan.
with particular of their debts on the 6th January 2021 presented Ambil perhatian bahawa suatu Writ Saman Florida offers to for India Test: Root
or claims and the names and by the said company. And that the dan Pernyataan Tuntutan telah difailkan host Olympics
addresses of their solicitors (if said petition is directed to be heard terhadap kamu di dalam Mahkamah Sesyen
any) to the undersigned, the before the Court sitting at 9.30 Seremban dalam Guaman Sivil No: NA- FLORIDA’S chief financial officer SKIPPER Joe Root yesterday said “We’ve got four very important
Liquidator of the said Company, o’clock in the forenoon on the 17th A52NCvC-51-10/2020 oleh GOBINATHAN yesterday told the International England will take “confidence” from games against arguably the best
and if so required in writing from March 2021; and any creditor or MUNIANDY. Plaintif yang dinamakan diatas Olympic Committee that the state their 2-0 Test sweep in Sri Lanka to team in the world in their own
the said, are by their solicitors contributory of the said company telah mendapat suatu Perintah bahawa would be happy to host the Olympics challenge world No. 1 India on their conditions,” Root said.
or personally to come in and desiring to support or oppose the Mahkamah telah memerintahkan bahawa Games amid speculation that current own patch.
proved their debts or claims at making of the order on the said Writ Saman dan Pernyataan Tuntutan hosts Japan may back out. Jimmy “We’ll have to play right at the
such place and time as shall petition may appear at the time of dan segala suratcara-suratcara dan Patronis sent a letter to Thomas Bach, England beat Sri Lanka by six top of our game to win out there
be specified in such notice or hearing by himself or his counsel dokumen-dokumen yang perlu diserahkan the head of the IOC, “to encourage you wickets in a tight second Test in but we couldn’t be in a better place
in default thereof they will be for that purpose; and a copy of the dalam prosiding tersebut disampaikan to consider relocating the 2021 Galle with Dom Sibley and Jos to go and challenge them.”
excluded from the benefits of said petition will be furnished to keatas kamu secara penyampaian ganti Olympics from Tokyo, Japan to the Buttler guiding the team’s chase of
any distribution made before any creditor or contributory of the iaitu dengan penampalan sesalinan Writ United States of America, and more 164 in the extended final session England have also won five
such debts are proven. said company requiring the same by Saman dan Pernyataan Tuntutan tersebut specifically to Florida”. “With media on day four. straight Tests away from home as
Kuala Lumpur the undersigned on payment of the dan sesalinan Perintah Penyampaian reports of leaders in Japan ‘privately’ they got past hosts South Africa in
27 January 2021 regulated charges for the same. Ganti di alamat terakhir Defendan Kedua concluding that they are too concerned Spinners Jack the final three matches of a four-
WONG YIN YEE (F) The Petitioners address at No. 22 dan Keempat serta mengiklankan Iklan about the pandemic for the 2021 Leach and Dom
Liquidator. & 24, Ground Floor, Leboh Kota Penyampaian Ganti di dalam akhbar Olympics to take place, there is still Bess played a key match series to triumph 3-1 in
Kuala Lumpur. Permai 1, Taman Kota Permai, tempatan harian The Sun dan dengan time to deploy a site selection team to part with four January last year.
14000 Bukit Mertajam, Pulau menampalkan sesalinan Writ Saman Florida,” he said. The letter, signed by wickets each to
322 Notices Pinang. dan Pernyataan Tuntutan tersebut dan Patronis and posted online, cited the skittle out Sri “Definitely progress. As I
The Petitioner’s solicitors is Messrs. sesalinan Perintah Penyampaian Ganti supposed strength of the state’s Lanka for 126 in mentioned before this game,
DALAM MAHKAMAH MAJISTRET Tiew & Associates, Advocates & di papan kenyataan Mahkamah Sesyen vaccination roll-out, its economic re- their second we have in the past struggled
DI SHAH ALAM Solicitors of 15A, Jalan Mawar 15, Seremban dan penyampaian tersebut opening and sports events it has innings.
GUAMAN NO: Taman Mawar, 56100 Cheras, Kuala dianggap sebagai sempurna dan hosted during the pandemic. But in away conditions,” said
Lumpur. mencukupi kepada kamu empat belas Florida has struggled badly in the Root, who led Root.
BA-A72NCvC-2156-12/2020 hari selepas penyempurnaan penyerahan coronavirus pandemic, with over by example with
Dated 27th January 2021 ganti. Jika kamu berhasrat untuk membela 25,000 deaths so far in the state as the match-winning “For us to be able to turn
ANTARA t.t. tindakan tersebut,kamu bolehlah hadir US death toll nears 420,000. “Whatever knocks of 228 and 186 that round, find ways of
sendiri atau melalui Peguam kamu di precautions are required let’s figure it in the first and second consistently taking 20 wickets
INDUSTRIAL OCCUPATIONAL ........................ hadapan Mahkamah Sesyen Seremban out and get it done,” Patronis said. matches respectively, is really impressive. We have
SAFETY & QUALITY SERVICES SDN. Messrs Tiew & Associates pada 5 Februari 2021 jam 9.00 pagi. Jika said the team looks just got to stay hungry and
BHD. (No. Syarikat: 1196557-V) kamu ingkar hadir sedemikian, Perintah … as France worry about in good shape
… PLAINTIF Solicitors for Petitioner Writ Saman dan Pernyataan Tuntutan boleh unvaccinated athletes ahead of keep looking to get
DAN Note- diberikan kepada Plaintif. Writ Saman dan the four- better.” –
Any person who intends to appear on Pernyataan Tuntutan ini boleh diperiksa ATHLETES who have not been Test AFP
CHENG FAN YUN the hearing of the said petition must oleh kamu dengan memohon kepada vaccinated against Covid-19 would face series in Joe Root
(No. K/P: 560918-05-5407) serve on or send by post to Messrs Mahkamah ini. “extremely difficult” conditions at the India that
Tiew & Associates of 15A, Jalan Mawar Bertarikh pada 25.1.2021 Tokyo Games this summer, the starts in
… DEFENDAN 15, Taman Mawar, 56100 Cheras, Kuala …………tt……………… president of the French National Chennai
Lumpur, notice in writing of his intention Peguamcara Plaintif Olympic Committee (CNOSF) said on Feb 5.
NOTIS so to do. The notice must state the name IKLAN PENYAMPAIAN GANTI ini difailkan yesterday. Unvaccinated athletes who
and address of the person, or, if a firm, oleh Tetuan Karthig Shan, Peguamcara bagi go to the Games in Japan face
Kepada: - CHENG FAN YUN the name and address of the firm, and pihak plaintif dan alamat penyampaian “quarantine of a fortnight” and “will
(No. K/P: 560918-05-5407) must be signed by the person or firm, or adalah di No. 103-3, Jalan Haruan 5/4, have to undergo tests in the mornings
his or their solicitor and must be served, Oakland Commerce Square, 70300 and evenings,” Denis Masseglia warned.
SILA AMBIL PERHATIAN bahawa or if posted, must be sent by post in Seremban, Negeri Sembilan. The issue of vaccination of athletes for
suatu tindakan telah dimulakan sufficient time to reach the above-named [Tel: 06-6307441] [Fax: 06-6317441] the Tokyo Olympics is to be discussed
terhadap kamu di Mahkamah not later than twelve o’clock noon of 16th [Ruj:KS/L/847/19] today at a meeting of the International
Majistret Shah Alam, dalam Guaman March 2021.[L/190719/General(2)] Olympic Committee (IOC) Executive
No. BA-A72NCvC-2156-12/2020 IN THE MATTER OF THE Committee. The IOC officially
oleh Industrial Occupational Safety IN THE MATTER OF COMPANIES ACT, 2016 encourages the vaccination of athletes
& Quality Services Sdn. Bhd. THE COMPANIES ACT 2016 but says it cannot impose it. Masseglia
(“Plaintif”) yang beralamat di No. 19- AND said there was no choice. In a video
1, Jalan Cempaka SD12/1, Bandar AND IN THE MATTER OF IN THE MATTER OF press conference, he said that “holding
Sri Damansara, 52200 Kuala Lumpur PERANCANG DINAMIK H.T.H. MOHAMMED the Games is at stake”. “We are not
di mana Plaintif menuntut terhadap PENGANGKUTAN SDN. BHD. alone,” he said. “For our Japanese
kamu antara lain untuk membayar SDN. BHD 198001010458 (64243-V) friends to receive athletes and
caj perkhidmatan pembaharuan Sijil (Registration No. (In Members’ Voluntary accredited people from all over the
CIDB G5 (No.Invoice.: No. IOSQSSB 199301001598(256335-T) world requires some precautions.” He
2034), faedah dan kos. (ln Members’ Voluntary Liquidation) said that the difficulties they would face
NOTICE OF FINAL MEETING could have “a dissuasive effect” for
DAN TELAH DIPERINTAHKAN Winding Up) athletes who did not want to be Bangladesh whitewash
bahawa Writ Saman dan Pernyataan NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that vaccinated. weakened Windies
Tuntutan bertarikh 01.12.2020 NOTICE OF FINAL MEETING pursuant to Section 459(1) of
dilaksanakan secara penyampaian the Companies Act, 2016 the FOUR players hit fifties as struck 64 runs each, while Shakib
ganti terhadap kamu dengan NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Final Meeting of Members Bangladesh made light work of the made 51 and Mahmudullah Riyad
menampalkan pada alamat terakhir pursuant to Section 459(1) of of the Company will be held West Indies to record a 120-run win put an unbeaten 64 off 43 balls.
kamu, menampalkan pada Papan the Companies Act 2016, a Final at the Registered office, No. in the third one-day international in
Notis Mahkamah Majistret Shah Meeting of the Company will 7126 (1st Floor), Jalan Bagan Chittagong to sweep the series 3-0. “It has been fantastic for us. The
Alam dan mengiklankan sekali di be held at 16, Jalan Sejahtera Jermal, Taman Bintang, 12300 hunger that the whole group
suatu penerbitan akhbar ‘The Sun’ 25/124, Seksyen 25, Taman Butterworth, Penang on Monday The home side bowled out a showed was amazing,”Tamim said
dan penyampaian Writ Saman dan Perindustrian Axis, 40400 Shah the 1st day of March 2021 at 3.30 weakened Windies for 177 runs after the match.
Pernyataan Tuntutan sedemikian Alam Selangor on 26 February p.m. for the following purpose: after half-centuries from Tamim
akan disifatkan sebagai penyerahan 2021 at 10.00.a.m. for the Iqbal, Mushfiqur Rahim, “Coming to international cricket
lengkap dan sempurna terhadap following purposes:- 1. To receive the Liquidator’s final Mahmudullah Riyad and Shakib Al after 10 months, the effort the boys
kamu dalam masa tujuh (7) hari accounts showing the manner Hasan powered them to 297-6 in put (in) was amazing.”
selepas tarikh penampalan atau 1. To receive and consider the in which the winding-up has 50 overs.
pengiklanan yang terakhir tersebut. Liquidators’ account of receipts been conducted and of hearing The hosts won the first two
and payment and statement any explanations thereof. Mohammad Saifuddin claimed matches of the series in Dhaka, by
Jika kamu berhasrat untuk of distribution among the 3-51, while Mustafizur Rahman (2- six wickets and seven wickets
membela tindakan tersebut, kamu contributories and to give any 2. To determine pursuant to 24) and Mehidy Hasan (2-18) respectively.
mestilah memasukkan kehadiran explanations arising there Section 518(3)(b) of the chipped in with useful wickets.
sama ada secara sendiri atau from. Companies Act, 2016 the “We were a bit far away in all the
melalui peguamcara kamu. Jika manner and period in which The West Indies were all out in three games. The bowling did OK,
kamu ingkar hadir sedemikian, 2. To decide under Section 518(3) the books, accounts and 44.2 overs with Rovman Powell today maybe 30 runs too many. The
penghakiman boleh diberikan (b) of the Companies Act 2016, documents of the Company top-scoring with 47 off 49 balls. batting didn’t work at all,” said
terhadap kamu. the manner in which the books, and of the Liquidator shall be Windies captain Jason Mohammed.
accounts and documents of the disposed off. Tamim and Mushfiqur earlier – AFP
Bertarikh pada Company and the liquidator
20 haribulan Januari, 2021 may be destroyed. Dated this
27th day of January 2021
…………t.t………… TAN ENG AUN
TETUAN A. BASKARAN & CO LIQUIDATOR LIM SIN HIN
LIQUIDATOR
Peguamcara Plaintif Dated: 27.01.2021
Note:
Note :
A member entitled to attend and Pursuant to Section 334 of
vote at the meeting is entitled to the Companies Act 2016 the
appoint a proxy to attend and vote members of the Company are
in his stead. A proxy need not be a entitled to appoint a proxy to
member of the Company. attend and vote

NOTIS ini telah diisukan oleh Tetuan CALL TO PLACE CLASSIFIED ADS
A. Baskaran & Co, peguamcara
pihak Plaintif yang beralamat di Unit MS. SHOBA
2-1, The Cube, Jalan 6/18A, Taman
Mastiara, Jalan Ipoh, 51200 Kuala T 03 7784 8888
Lumpur. F 03 7784 4424
Ruj: ABC.1854/I.4.22/BAS/L/
PMT/2020
Tel: +603-6179 4711
Fax: +603-6179 5711
Emel: [email protected]

22 theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | JANUARY 27, 2021
SPORTS

Russell is real threat to Hamilton Badosa slams quarantine conditions
IN ONE of the more elongated and unexpected unfortunately, it didn’t end well. But he did show
contract impasses in recent Formula One history, what he’s capable of.” SPANISH tennis player Paula Badosa has have, I’ve had no information from the
Lewis Hamilton is yet to sign a new deal with Russell’s presence and performance makes described her extended period of quarantine tournament,” she told Spanish newspaper Marca
Mercedes. Hamilton’s contract negotiations more difficult ahead of the Australia Open following a positive yesterday.
Differences in the terms of the contract are than would normally be expected. novel coronavirus test as the worst moment of Australian Open organisers did not
nothing new. Drivers and teams have been Hamilton may not like it, but Russell is a her career, adding she felt abandoned by immediately respond to a request for comment.
negotiating over them for years. But in this threat to the seven-time world champions, as organisers. Badosa, who said she had been suffering
instance, there is another hurdle to overcome former F1 driver and pundit Christijan Albers Badosa, ranked 67 in the world, was the first from anxiety and claustrophobia, has been
that adds an added layer of complexity to the explained. player to test positive for the virus upon arrival limited to doing sit ups in her hotel room and
situation, whether Hamilton likes it or not. “Lewis thought that it would all work out, in Australia ahead of the tournament and using water bottles as weights to try to stay in
When Hamilton missed the Sakhir Grand Prix that he would become world champion and cannot leave her hotel room until Jan 31. shape.
due to contracting the coronavirus, George that he could therefore increase the pressure for If she is found to have been infected with the The 23-year-old added that the room, which
Russell stepped in and performed excellently. a higher salary,” he told The Telegraaf’s Formula 1 new strain of coronavirus, Badosa will only she is sharing with coach Javier Marti, was not
While Russell may not have won in Bahrain, podcast. return to training on Feb 5 which the Spaniard suitable for an elite athlete.
the F1 world took notice. “What he didn’t realise was that he would get believes will be too late to regain her fitness. “It’s far and away the worst experience of my
“For me, that was the race George Russell coronavirus and that Russell would get in the The Grand Slam, which has been delayed by career,” Badosa said.
substituted for Lewis Hamilton,” Damon Hill told car and actually shatter his whole plan, literally three weeks due to disruption caused by the “The conditions here are lamentable, I wasn’t
the In The Pink podcast. and figuratively.” pandemic. expecting that. The number one thing people
“I’m sorry for Lewis and Valtteri, but at that Whether Mercedes would be brave enough “I feel abandoned because I don’t have recommend when you have the virus is to open
point, a star was born. He was given a golden to move on from Hamilton and commit to Russell training equipment which I requested five days the windows to let in air, but I don’t have
opportunity and did a great job, but is another question. – Express Newspapers ago, I haven’t been told which type of the virus I windows in my hotel room and it’s barely 15m
square.
Trouble “I have lost a lot of my fitness levels,
5230/2021 26/01/2021 (TUE) especially my strength. If I can come out on Jan
31 I’ll have a week to get in shape. If it’s Feb 5 it’ll
be impossible to recover in time (for the
tournament),” Badosa said. – Reuters

SPORTS TOTO MALAYSIA SDN BHD (8420 - D) brewing

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1st Prize 4862

2nd Prize 7538 Down
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4862 7538 7538 4862 Nadal
4862 4604 4604 4862
7538 4604 4604 7538

100,000.00 RAFAEL NADAL has taken an Nadal takes veiled
apparent swipe at Novak swipe at Djokovic over
Winning combination of any 1 of Top 3 & any 1 of Special prizes. Djokovic over his requests for isolation complaints
quarantined players preparing
1st Prize 4862 + for the Australian Open, saying not who have larger rooms where they can
2nd Prize 7538 everyone felt the need to “advertise” how develop physical activities, others have
3rd Prize 4604 + they were trying to help. smaller rooms and can’t have contact with
4th Prize their coach and their physical trainer.
Special Prize + SNAKE The Serbian world No. 1 issued a list of
suggestions to Tennis Australia last week “Where’s the line? It’s an ethical issue.
+ on behalf of 72 players unable to leave Everyone has their own opinion and they
their Melbourne hotel rooms after Covid- are all respectable.”
5th Prize Consolation Prize + 19 cases were detected on their planes to
Australia. Nick Kyrgios yesterday likened
6th Prize Any 4D drawn number Djokovic to NBA player LeBron James in
They reportedly included moving his influence both on and off the court but
TOTO 5D & 6D PRIZE PAYMENTS GUARANTEED IN FULL players into private homes with tennis says he had a duty to call out the Serb
courts and getting them better meals. when he “lost his way” during the Covid-
03259 93814 19 pandemic.
36757 3814 But his requests fell on deaf ears, while
814 Australian media portrayed players as The maverick Australian called
14 petulant and selfish. Djokovic’s ill-fated Adria Tour in June
“boneheaded” and described Djokovic as
925420 Djokovic later issued an open letter to a “tool” last week when he wrote to the
say his “good intentions for my fellow organisers about the quarantine
92542 25420 competitors in Melbourne have been conditions.
9254 5420 misconstrued”.
925 420 “He is one of our leaders of our sport.
92 20 “We all try to help each other,” He’s technically our LeBron James in the
Spanish great Nadal told ESPN way he has to be setting an example for all
TOTO GAMES GIVES YOU MORE WINNING CHANCES! yesterday from Adelaide, where he and tennis players,” Kyrgios told CNN.
Djokovic are quarantining ahead of the
7 15 21 41 53 55 year’s opening Grand Slam in “When he was doing some of the
Melbourne on Feb 8. things he was doing during the global
10,407,558.03 pandemic, it just wasn’t the right time. I
“Some need to make public everything know everyone makes mistakes, some
9 16 22 40 42 49 they do to help others,” he added, in of us go off track sometimes, and I think
11,458,327.53 remarks widely seen as referring to we have to hold each other accountable.
Djokovic.
Jackpot 1 1 17 21 35 40 44 5 “No one else was really holding him
Jackpot 2 2,669,721.20 “Others… do it in a more private way accountable. Everyone loses their way a
204,439.82 without having to publish or advertise little bit but I think he just needs to pull it
everything we’re doing.” back.” – AFP/Reuters
Toto 4D Jackpot 2
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It sparked mutterings about
preferential treatment, and Nadal
admitted it had been smoother sailing.

“In Adelaide, conditions have been
better than most players in Melbourne,”
he said.

“But there are players in Melbourne

SHORTS 23theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | JANUARY 27, 2021
Frank take on early exit * SPORTS
from Stamford Bridge
The writing was on the wall
FRANK LAMPARD expressed his
disappointment at not being given Club legend Lampard knew all about Chelsea’s ruthless regime
time to succeed after being sacked
by Chelsea yesterday. █ TONY EVANS Premier League matches made the minutes. Tammy Abraham scored showed on the pitch has not been
departure inevitable. Lampard can twice and it was almost an present during his management
Sunday’s 3-1 FA Cup fourth-round THE epitaph for Frank complain that a season and a half exhibition. They played like a team career. He has been unable to
win against Championship side Lampard hung in the was not enough time to get Chelsea who were conscious of their own convey his economy of purpose to
Luton was not enough to save the empty Shed End. It said: on the right track. excellence. the squad.
former England midfielder. “In Frank We Trust. Then. He took over after Maurizio
Now. Forever.” Sarri’s departure and inherited a But the goals did not come. Even against Luton, Lampard
“It has been a huge privilege and team that had finished third in the Chelsea seemed distracted by their was still talking about tinkering
an honour to manage Chelsea, a club They must have winced in the Premier League and won the own superiority. A sense of with systems, trying to work out
that has been a big part of my life for boardroom. Trust had evaporated Europa League. entitlement crept in. And how best to deploy his expensively
so long,” Lampard said in a statement long before Chelsea’s 3-1 win over A transfer ban in his first season complacency. assembled squad.
posted on his Instagram account. Luton Town in the FA Cup fourth lowered expectations.
round on Sunday. Nevertheless, the former Derby Luton pulled a goal back on the There was a sense that he was
“I am disappointed not to have County boss achieved Champions half hour and for the next 40 learning on the job. This is just his
had the time this season to take the The decision to sack the 42- League qualification. A spending minutes the match was in the third season in the dugout and he is
club forward and bring it to the next year-old had already been made. splurge of more than £220m balance. The Championship team a long way from being the finished
level.” (RM1.1b) changed the landscape should have equalised. It was not article.
The banner, created by last summer. Now he had to deliver. good enough for Chelsea.
The club said it had been a “very supporters, touched the Chelsea On Sunday there were glimpses What is bizarre is that he was
difficult decision” to part ways with hero. of what could have been. As a player Lampard was mean- doing it at Chelsea, a place where
their all-time record goalscorer, who Chelsea had spells when they eyed, relentless and all business. they are not interested in personal
won three league titles and the “I don’t know if emotional was were flamboyant, swaggering flat- There was nothing flash about the development and growth, only
Champions League during his 13- the word, but people who know track bullies toying with their midfielder. There were no frills. His trophies.
year career as a player at Stamford about how I feel about this club will Championship opponents. team never inherited that
Bridge. understand,” he said. During other phases in the mentality. One former manager put it
game they were barely succinctly. “They live and die by
A number of younger players “It’s a two-way thing from the distinguishable from Luton, They are too decorative when the Champions League,” he said.
handed their breakthrough in the first time I came here, maybe 20 despite the yawning gap in talent. they need to be dangerous. Their With the team sitting
Chelsea first team by Lampard, such years ago nearly. They were 2-0 up within 17 flaws are as much philosophical as uncomfortably in ninth place in the
as Mason Mount, Billy Gilmour, structural, although Lampard was table, patience ran out.
Tammy Abraham and Reece James, “So I’m very thankful for that still wrestling with the side’s shape
posted messages of thanks to their support, and it’s great to see it at the on Sunday. Lampard has been around
former manager on social media. Bridge. I feel it very strongly Chelsea long enough to know that
indeed.” The clarity of thought he is how it works. – The Independent
“As a Chelsea fan growing up I’ve
always looked up to you, idolised Defeat in five of the past eight Sacking shows
you. I can’t explain what it’s been like football’s
to play under you, the whole journey No rest needed, say Fernandes brutality: Jose
has been surreal,” said James on
Instagram. █ MARK CRITCHLEY having started 25 of United’s 29 games to date this JOSE MOURINHO feels sorry for
BRUNO FERNANDES dismissed suggestions that he season, but he denied that his minutes are being Frank Lampard after he was
Aguero feeling better after is tired after his match-winner from the substitutes’ managed because he is suffering from fatigue. sacked by Chelsea on Monday as
Covid struggled: Pep bench in Manchester United’s FA Cup fourth round the result of what the Spurs
victory over Liverpool on Sunday. “Tired? With 26 years old I can’t be tired,” he said. “If manager called “the brutality of
SERGIO AGUERO struggled with the I’m tired now, when I arrive at 30, 32, I will not play. I football”.
symptoms of Covid-19 but is feeling The Portugal international will play one game in five so, no, I’m not tired.
better and making progress in his scored a 78th-minute Mourinho twice had spells as
recovery, according to Pep Guardiola. freekick to send “Of course the coach knows what is better for the Chelsea manager which ended in
United through team and today he choose to play with Donny to give acrimonious circumstances
The Manchester City striker has to a fifth round some freshness to the team. between him the club hierarchy.
not played since coming on as a late tie against
substitute in the 3-1 win over Chelsea West Ham, but “I think it’s fair enough because Donny is training He said: “I am always sad when
earlier this month after coming into only after really well, he’s been important for us and will be a colleague loses his job. Frank is
contact with a confirmed case. being rotated more and more important in the future.” not just a colleague, he is an
out of the important person in my career, so
Aguero observed a period of self- starting line- Fernandes will celebrate the first anniversary of his I feel sorry he did (get sacked).
isolation – missing City’s games up by arrival in Manchester this week and Sunday’s goal –
against Birmingham, Brighton, manager Ole his first against Liverpool – will rank as one of the “But it is the brutality of
Crystal Palace and Aston Villa – but Gunnar highlights of his first year at United. football, especially modern
later tested positive himself. Solskjaer and football, so when you become a
replaced by The 26-year-old is now focused on bringing his first manager you know that sooner or
Guardiola revealed on Friday that Donny van de trophy to Old Trafford having played in three of later it is going to happen to you.”
the 32-year-old had felt Beek. United’s four semifinal defeats over the past 12
“uncomfortable” and “tired” after Former United skipper Gary
contracting the virus but is now Fernandes had months. Neville insists “expectations” cost
feeling better and working his way no issue with Solskjaer’s side remain top of the Premier Lampard his job after Chelsea’s
back to fitness. Solskjaer’s League – two points ahead of second-place lavish outlay last summer.
decision, Manchester City, who have a game in hand
“The important thing is when we – and hope that they remain there after Neville said “results and
text him during the first three or four Bruno Fernandes tomorrow’s (4.15am) visit from Sheffield inconsistent form” ultimately
days he struggled, he felt so tired, but United. proved crucial, with Lampard
today he sent a message to the “I come to the club because I knew I unable to maximise the use of an
backroom staff to say he feels much will come to a club who wants to win injection of talent last summer.
better,” Guardiola revealed. everything,” Fernandes said.
“My mentality and my way to “Frank has had a short amount
“Now he needs to test negative be in my life and football is of time with a new set of players.
and abide by the protocols and then about winning, and so you He was given a period under a
start to come back here and move have to be confident, transfer embargo, it shielded him,
and see how he feels day by day. you have to trust he did a great job in that period
your teammates, but the minute they spent the
“I cannot tell you (when he will be you have to money they did, it was always
back), I don’t know how he will react trust yourself, going to bring more expectation
in the first days when we start to and you and we know what happens at
train.” have to Chelsea when expectation
believe,” comes,” Neville told Sky Sports
RESULTS & STANDINGS he said. News.
“And
FA CUP 4TH RD I will “When you have one of the
Wycombe 1 Tottenham 4. believe biggest budgets in the League
until it’s and biggest spend, expectation
LA LIGA not more possible, comes with it and at Chelsea their
Athletic Bilbao 5 (Raul Garcia 12, 61, you know? Like when I see someone get the approach to managers has been
Yeray 50, Berenguer 75, De Marcos 82) trophy before me then I will [have] lost my consistent and Frank knew that
Getafe 1 (Cucurella 1). belief.” when he got the job.
Fernandes added: “I always was like this. I
TOP 10 P W D L F A PTS “Frank won’t want people to
Atletico 18 15 2 1 36 8 47 don’t like to lose, so I think maybe the mentality feel sorry for him, he’ll have an
Real Madrid 19 12 4 3 34 16 40 is more like I don’t like to lose. I don’t conform understanding that he went into a
Barcelona 19 11 4 4 39 17 37 with losing games is normal stuff. For me, losing club that has always been like this
Sevilla 19 11 3 5 26 16 36 is not normal so my mentality comes from that, with managers. The results and
Villarreal 20 8 10 2 28 19 34 you know? inconsistent form has cost him. As
Sociedad 20 8 7 5 31 18 31 a club legend we maybe all
Granada 20 8 4 8 24 34 28 “Also playing whatever it is, when I was thought he’d get a bit more time.”
Real Betis 20 8 3 9 26 34 27 playing with my friends, my brother, with my – The Independent
Athletic Bilbao19 7 3 9 26 23 24 neighbours, I never want to lose so I want to win
Celta Vigo 20 6 6 8 24 31 24 every time. This mentality will be with me for the
rest of my life, I think.” – The Independent

WEDNESDAY • JANUARY 27, 2021 QUOTE OF THE DAY

Tired? With 26 years old I can’t be tired. If
I’m tired now, when I arrive at 30, 32, I will
not play. I will play one game in five so, no, I’m not
tired… the coach knows what is better for the team
and today he choose to play with Donny to give some
freshness to the team.”

Manchester United midfielder Bruno Fernandes

Mourinho hails Bale after goalscoring performance against Wycombe

TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR manager Tottenham Hotspur’s Gareth Premier League action on Friday stay in the game and it was great for
Jose Mourinho heaped praise Bale (right) in action during when champions Liverpool visit us to score in minute 85 because that
on Gareth Bale after the yesterday’s English FA Cup north London. gave us the possibility of not playing
Welsh winger scored in extra-time, which would have been
yesterday’s 4-1 victory at 4th round match against “I knew that the game was going not good for us.
Wycombe Wanderers in Wycombe Wanderers at to be difficult – we started preparing
the FA Cup fourth the Adams Park stadium for the game by showing the players “We had some good
round. what they did a few years ago at performances from the boys that
in High Wycombe. White Hart Lane,” Mourinho said, started the game. Of course Winks
Bale started for the – AFPPIX referencing the 2017 fourth-round man of the match which is very
first time since Dec 23 tie which Spurs won 4-3 at the much deserved because I thought
and netted the equaliser in death. he was very, very good in
first-half stoppage time after everything he did, apart from the
Fred Onyedinma had given “Six of these players goal.
the Championship side a and the manager
shock lead. are still in this “The goal is just a very small
team. important detail but happy
Bale, 31, has struggled for because I think the attitude
form and fitness but looked
sharp in completing his first 90 of the team was
minutes since returning on
loan from Real Madrid. “So that I think very
was a good start and professional and it’s the
“He was good. Good then we prepared for kind of game that even if we lose
movements, one against one, because we don’t take chances and
beating people, attacking, the game knowing they score in the last minutes, let’s
creating chances, scoring a goal,” it could be hard say that, I wouldn’t be sad because
Mourinho told reporters. of the very professional
and it was. It’s not performance.”
“I never felt he could not play 90 easy to handle Mourinho said Spurs would not
minutes, I never felt I needed to their style of sacrifice the Europa League or cup
change him.” play. competitions despite a crowded
“If you fixture schedule and were determined
Spurs looked like being taken don’t to compete in all competitions.
to extra-time by the score “Even when we had to play four
Championship strugglers as goals matches in one week and people
they missed a host of they thought we were going to give away
chances to kill the Europa League or Carabao Cup we
game after Bale’s change didn’t,” Mourinho told the BBC.
equaliser. “Today we brought the whole
squad – only Hugo Lloris stayed at
Even the home.
introduction of “February we have to play
Harry Kane and Son three competitions with FA Cup
Heung-min could not do and then Europa League. Of
the trick until the final five minutes course it will be very hard but
when a Harry Winks strike and a we have to try.” – The
quickfire Tanguy Ndombele double Independent
sent Mourinho’s men through to a
fifth-round tie at Everton. to
The late goals were a blessing for
Mourinho, whose side are back in

Time
Klopp needs a more radical approach to gets Liverpool ticking again

█ TONY EVANS Mohamed Salah scored twice and Roberto have been largely disguised by Jordan Thiago Alcantara’s arrival was celebrated
Firmino gave indications that he is regaining his Henderson’s willingness to help out in the past with gusto and although the former Bayern
UNDER normal circumstances Jurgen form. Now the post-mortem gets ugly. couple of years and the captain will be needed Munich playmaker is supremely talented,
Klopp would not really care about at Spurs. Liverpool’s system requires a level of
getting knocked out of the FA Cup. Alisson Becker, so often the cornerstone of athleticism that the 29-year-old does not have.
These are far from normal the side’s stability, has become increasingly Liverpool’s fullbacks have been the creative
circumstances. scatterbrained in his adventures outside the force behind the team but they have been less It may be that to get the best out of Thiago
area. His passing, too, has become careless. effective recently. There are a number of there needs to be a complete redrawing of
Liverpool were dumped out of the reasons – uncertainty in the defence because of Klopp’s blueprint.
competition by Manchester United yesterday To make things worse, Alisson’s weight was injuries and opponents sitting deeper are just
after their 3-2 defeat at Old Trafford in the on the wrong foot for Bruno Fernandes’ game- two – but production from the flanks has slowed It is too early to talk in terms of crisis but a
fourth round. There were more negatives than winning freekick. Goalkeepers hate being down. defeat by Spurs would deepen the sense of
positives for the German manager. beaten on their side at a set-piece and the 28- malaise around Anfield.
year-old should have done better. Williams is not ready to play at the highest
The nature of the defeat, against the club by level and he will need to be a strong character to Liverpool’s success in the past three years
which Anfield judges itself, was painful. Klopp Rhys Williams and Trent Alexander-Arnold survive the sort of tests that he is enduring. was a magical confluence of talent and tenacity
has to rebuild the confidence of a squad that had nightmares. United targeted Liverpool’s Matip adds solidity but Fabinho, who has been but in most teams individuals or even
has only won once in the past seven games – right flank and had plenty of success. exceptional filling in at the back, needs to be departments can be replaced with little drop-
and that was against a coronavirus-affected Alexander-Arnold left too much room behind relocated to the midfield as soon as possible. off.
Aston Villa side comprised of mostly teenagers. him when going forward and that allowed
Marcus Rashford to run at Williams and Luke Liverpool’s midfield is barely functioning. Klopp’s champions are more organic: take
They travel to White Hart Lane to face Jose Shaw to overload the flank. Fabinho, Henderson and Georginio Wijnaldum out one component and the knock-on effect
Mourinho’s Tottenham Hotspur next. The scent never quite received the praise they deserved in sends a shudder throughout the team.
of decay is in the air and the Portuguese is This would be a problem for an experienced the Champions League and title-winning
enlivened by that type of odour in his nostrils. centreback and it exposed the 19-year-old’s campaigns. The Liverpool manager has spent a month
naivety. Joel Matip should return for Tottenham trying to fill holes and paper over cracks. This is
Mourinho will aim to expose every weakness but Son Heung-min will be aiming to get They provided balance, cover and energy not working.
in the defending champions. behind Alexander-Arnold. but many supporters criticised their lack of
creativity as a unit. A more radical approach may be needed
There were upsides at Old Trafford. The 22-year-old’s defensive shortcomings sooner rather than later. Change is painful but it
may be necessary. – The Independent

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