The Sun Daily-020721

TELLING IT AS IT IS

July 3, 2021

(12S.w01itazmerMlanadlayvssiaSnptaimine)

Belgium vs Italy
(3am)
Get thuepdlaatteesst
Euro 2020
ON FRIDAY here
JULY 2, 2021

No. 7813 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195) www.thesundaily.my Download app now from

Get the
jab fast
oVaccination is still the best way to
fight Covid-19, medical experts say

█ BY RAJVINDER SINGH emerge across the globe if the
incidence of infection remains
[email protected] high.”
ETALING JAYA: He said based on available
Vaccination remains the knowledge, only the Beta strain
best defence against the reduces the efficacy of currently
Greek alphabet soup of available vaccines.
Covid-19 variants. Each new “However, the vaccines are still
strain, from Alpha and Beta to effective in decreasing the severity
Delta and Gamma, is more of the illness in people who have
virulent and more deadly than the been infected,” he said.
original virus. More sampling of the Beta
On the bright side, medical variant is needed to be sure of its
experts said the various types of burden or impact on financial
vaccines in use now remain costs, mortality rate, morbidity and
effective in reducing severity of the other indicators, he added.
infections. Given that Covid-19 is now a
The Alpha strain has proven to global problem, Sanjay said it
be the most highly transmissible to cannot be solved by any single
date, having been reported in 172 country acting alone.
countries, followed by the Beta He noted that all the available
variant, which is now present in information on the Delta variant is
120 countries. still at a very preliminary stage,
The Delta strain, seen as the given that it has yet to become a
most deadly, has been detected in major strain in many countries.
96 countries and the Gamma Another constraint is that in
variant is now present in 72 low-income countries, there is a
countries. lack of capacity to perform
Three of the variants – Alpha, representative sequencing
Beta and Delta – have already been sampling, he added.
reported in Malaysia, according to “There have been reports that
Universiti Malaya professor of the Delta strain has been the cause
epidemiology and public health of new surges in infection but the
Dr Sanjay Rampal. evidence remains sparse,” Sanjay FURTIVE GLANCES ... Two residents
The emergence of new variants said.
is to be expected, given that the Nonetheless, it clear peeking out from behind a barricaded area at the
virus has to continue to evolve to that the Delta variant is Turn to Sunway Mentari Court apartments in Selangor that
improve its chances of survival, highly virulent. It is 55% has been placed under an enhanced movement
— control order. – ASYRAF RASID/THESUN
more transmissible than page 4
Sanjay told theSun. the Alpha strain.
“New strains will continue to

2 theSUN ON FRIDAY | JULY 2, 2021
NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS

Anguish of being switched at birth

█ BY ALISHA NUR MOHD NOOR o Such discovery could be devastating as both child’s emotional pain, the parents A child who discovers that
[email protected] parents and child could be traumatised: Expert will have to think positive, although he has been switched at birth or
PETALING JAYA: The birth of a child the child is not theirs biologically. adopted without his knowledge is
is a time to rejoice. However, for some Earlier this week, a pair of twins forward to tell their stories. most vulnerable, especially if still
parents and children, it might be the from Kota Baru spoke about the Among them is a couple, who “They should continue to give the young.
beginning of a nightmare. challenges they faced on discovering child the same love and care they
that they had been separated at birth lodged a police report on discovering have always given him or her.” Fauziah recounted a case of a boy
For parents and children alike, through the negligence of the that the baby boy they took home was who turned rebellious upon knowing
discovering years later that they are hospital where they were born 19 not actually theirs. Fauziah said if the parents are that he had been adopted.
not biologically related will be years ago. unable to handle their emotions,
shocking and heart-wrenching. Fauziah pointed out that the their mental well-being could “The parents loved the child so
The parents who took one of the impact of such a discovery could be degenerate, and trigger underlying much that they were afraid to reveal
It will take time for both sides to twins home brought her up along devastating, especially to the child. illnesses. the truth to him,” she said, adding that
come to grips with the revelation, with her purported “twin”. The “twin the child took the family car for a
Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris sisters” thought that they were just “It affects the child through no The first step towards healing is to drive without his parents’ permission,
counsellor Dr Fauziah Mohd Sa’ad non-identical. fault of his. Both parents and child accept that the switch had happened only to end up in an accident.
told theSun. could be traumatised. and cannot be undone, she said.
Since then, others who had similar “Make peace with yourself and think Relate Mental Health Malaysia
In situations like this, affected experiences have also stepped “This is when the parents should positive for the sake of the child.” founder and clinical psychologist Dr
parents play a vital role to ensure that pull themselves together to protect Chua Sook Ning said it is unfortunate
rational thinking prevails, the the child,” she said. “To ease the Rather than descend into that there is little research on this
counselling psychologist added. negativity, the parents could rejoice issue. “Counselling to support both
that their child would now have two families could be helpful.”
sets of parents, Fauziah added.

EMCO in 34 MAGIC NUMBER ... Johor SMK Aminuddin Baki student Chai Ching Sheng sharing his joy with his parents Tam Penang mulls
Selangor mukim, Mok Kiew and Chai Moi Hen after achieving a 4.00 Cumulative Grade Point Average in the Sijil Tinggi Pelajaran options on
14 areas in KL Malaysia examination. – BERNAMAPIX assembly sitting

KUALA LUMPUR: An enhanced Moratorium should be win-win GEORGE TOWN: The Penang
movement control order (EMCO) will government has two options when
be imposed in 34 mukim in Selangor KUALA LUMPUR: The year for the benefit of 7.7 million A win-win solution should be making its final decision on holding
and 14 localities in Kuala Lumpur for moratorium on bank loan Malaysians, or 93% of individuals considered by banks so as not to the state assembly sitting, Chief
14 days until July 16. repayments was perhaps the most with bank loans. burden the people, according to Minister Chow Kon Yeow said
anticipated news in weeks when it The positive effect of the Universiti Putra Malaysia School of yesterday.
Senior Minister (Security) Datuk was announced by Prime Minister previous moratorium is reflected in Business and Economics
Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob said in a Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin on the gradual recovery of the lecturer Dr Anuar Shah Bali “One of the options is to do it
statement that the 34 mukim are in Monday. country’s economy, including its Mahomed. before Aug 1 (scheduled end of the
Petaling district (Mukim Petaling, Barely 24 hours later, delight gross domestic product, which Emergency) after getting the consent
Damansara, Sungai Buloh and Bukit turned to dismay when Finance rebounded strongly to 6% in March In a difficult time like this, banks of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong,” he
Raja), Hulu Langat district (Mukim Minister Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz this year. should help by prioritising their said in a statement yesterday.
Hulu Langat, Ampang, Cheras, announced that there would be no It also succeeded in helping customers’ welfare by exempting
Kajang, Semenyih and Beranang), free rides. businesses and small and medium interest during the moratorium “Otherwise, the sitting can
Sepang district (Mukim Dengkil, Borrowers will continue to be enterprises to continue to survive, period, especially for those who are proceed in August when the
Labu and Sepang) and Gombak charged interest on their loans. besides reducing the prompt in making their instalment Emergency is lifted.
district (Mukim Batu, Rawang, However, banks would waive unemployment rate from 5.3% in payments after the moratorium has
Setapak, Hulu Kelang and Kuang). compounded interests and penalty May 2020 to 4.6% in April this year. ended until full settlement of the “If this option is taken, there will
charges for those who accept the Among others, applications for loans, he said. not be any need for a 28-day notice or
Also involved are the Kuala Langat moratorium, he said. the new moratorium, which opens a special sitting with an official
district (Mukim Tanjung 12 (1), Malaysia was one of the first on July 7, will be given automatic This will also indirectly opening by the Yang di-Pertua Negri.”
Tanjung 12 (2), Teluk Panglima countries to introduce a six-month approval without borrowers having encourage borrowers to settle their
Garang, Morib, Bandar, Jugra and automatic moratorium in April last to send any documents. monthly instalment payments The state government will monitor
Batu), Klang district (Mukim Kapar consistently, Anuar added. the latest developments and make an
and Klang), Kuala Selangor district – Bernama appropriate decision, Chow said.
(Mukim Ijok, Bestari Jaya and Jeram)
and Hulu Selangor district (Mukim Penang state assembly Speaker
Serendah, Rasa, Ulu Yam and Datuk Law Choo Kiang said the
Batang Kali). assembly is ready to reconvene.

Areas in Kuala Lumpur are the Sri “We have yet to decide whether it
Semarak People’s Housing Project will be a hybrid or physical meeting
(PPR), Batu Muda PPR, Wangsa Maju because we have to consider the
Section 1 and Section 2 flats, Covid-19 pandemic factor and advice
Kampung Padang Balang, Taman from the National Security Council,”
Koperasi Polis (Phase 1 and 2), Sri he said yesterday. – Bernama
Sabah flats, Kampung Puah and
Kampung Baru Air Panas PPR. Palm oil board
to focus on
Desa Pandan flats (including automation
Baiduri and Delima), Kampung Batu
Muda, Kerinchi PPR, Bandar Baru KUALA LUMPUR: The Plantation
Sentul and Taman Ikan Emas are also Industries and Commodities
involved. Ministry, through the Malaysian Palm
Oil Board, will focus on
Ismail Sabri said all routes would mechanisation and automation
be closed and controlled by police, research to develop plantation
and residents will not be allowed to machinery, especially for oil palm
leave their homes, except for one harvesting.
household representative to buy
basic necessities within a radius of Its minister Datuk Mohd
10km, Bernama reported. Khairuddin Aman Razali said the use
of machinery is a strategy for
The Health Ministry will conduct reducing the high dependence on
targeted screening tests on all foreign labour at oil palm plantations.
residents in the affected areas.
“The problem of manpower
Interstate and interdistrict travel shortage is estimated to bring losses
for vaccination is allowed for those of about RM10 billion a year due to
who show appointment details on ripe palm fruits not being harvested,”
their MySejahtera app, website or he said at the launch of the board’s
short messaging service. Virtual Transfer of Technology
Seminar and Exhibition yesterday.
He said that airports and ports
were allowed to operate as usual, Mohd Khairuddin said plantation
while public transport activities and machinery could boost productivity
services (trains, commuter trains, and farm operation efficiency.
buses, taxis, ferries and e-hailing
vehicles) can operate at 50% capacity, It will encourage youths to pursue
with the number of individuals in careers in the industry, which is
taxis limited to two, including associated with a less attractive work
the driver. environment, he added. – Bernama

Permission to travel to work is only
for essential services, he said.

3theSUN ON FRIDAY | JULY 2, 2021
NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS

COMMENT byYeoh Guan Jin

Still waiting for light at the end of the tunnel

ON July 1 last year, Malaysia recorded one new We are long past the surges caused by the well worsen before it can turn around. group headed by none other than himself, to
case of Covid-19 infection. Yesterday, we added tabligh event and the Sabah state election. Even At its core is the recently launched four- formulate recommendations on how best to
6,988 cases to our tally. the Hari Raya Aidilfitri spurt seems insignificant tackle the Covid-19 problem.
now. phase national recovery plan, just the same
The last time the daily increase in infection scheme by another name? In the meantime, the number of infections
was still in the single digit was Sept 6, 2020 when Eighteen months have passed since the first continues to rise at record-breaking speed. Our
six cases were reported. case was reported on Jan 25 last year. Yet we In January, Prime Minister Tan Sri best bet, a surge in vaccination, has yet to
don’t seem to be any closer to a comprehensive Muhyiddin Yassin announced the formation of materialise. As of yesterday, only 2.3 million
Since then, the numbers have risen steadily, plan to quickly put the infection behind us. an expert advisory group to address the Covid- Malaysians, barely 7% of the population, have
to hit a peak of 8,209 on June 3. 19 crisis. He even asked the group of 46 health been fully vaccinated. Between infection and
One cannot be blamed for wondering if experts who had called for 10 “critical actions” vaccination, it’s like pitting the hare and the
Just a few days before that, Health Director- there is anything more than the series of in an open letter to him, to nominate tortoise in a race. The difference is that this time
General Tan Sri Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah had lockdowns and work stoppages we have seen candidates for the advisory group. the hare is not taking a break for a snooze.
advised Malaysians to brace themselves for new since March last year.
infections to rise above 10,000 a day. Not to be outdone, Opposition Leader Datuk We shouldn’t either.
The economy is on the brink, and could very Seri Anwar Ibrahim formed a separate advisory
How did we get to this? What went wrong?

468 people Essential service providers
dead from who are also road menace
suicide this year
o Miros study shows 70% of p-hailing riders safety attire. If they are involved in However, he said, there is
KUALA LUMPUR: An average of two disobey traffic rules while on delivery runs a crash, the right attire can help to insufficient data to prove that they
people died daily by suicide from January reduce injury and save lives,” he are the main contributors to the
2020 till May this year, police statistics show. █ BY SHIVANI SUPRAMANI pointed out. said. increase in road accidents.
[email protected] Miros is in talks with
In the 516 days over the period, 1,099 PETALLING JAYA: Food delivery representatives of service providers “When doing delivery runs at Back in 2019, one food delivery
people died after resorting to suicide. riders provide an essential service such as Grab and foodpanda to night, they should put on clothes rider was killed and five others
when the country is under address the problem. that will enhance their visibility in slightly injured in road crashes.
What is of greater concern is that in just lockdown. Otherwise, many will To instil a culture of road safety the dark,” he added. Last year, there were 17 fatalities
five month between January and May this have to go without dinner. in these riders, Suret said, several among them. Apart from that, 10
year, 468 suicide cases have been reported. interventions are necessary. Suret said the service providers had serious injuries and 64 had
In 2020, there were 631 cases while in 2019, However, a large proportion of “We need road safety training could do their part by offering minor injuries.
609 cases were reported. them are also a menace on the customised for them. Their riding monetary rewards to riders who
road. A study conducted by the skills must be enhanced and their show a clean record to promote Data from the Social Security
Federal police CID director Comm Malaysian Institute of Road Safety awareness of road safety must be safe riding behaviour. Organisation showed that there
Datuk Abd Jalil Hassan yesterday said Research (Miros) revealed that raised,” he said. were more than 150 road crashes
records show that 281 of the victims since 70% of them disobey traffic rules To this end, he said, the Miros is now working with involving food delivery riders from
2019 were men while women made up when they are on a delivery run. Transport Ministry, in Kuala Lumpur City Hall and other March to June last year.
1,427 victims. collaboration with Miros and the local authorities to improve rider
Stopping in the yellow box Road Transport Department, safety at traffic junctions by When contacted, Grab directed
He said the majority of those who died accounted for 57% of all violations, launched a road safety campaign utilising the surveillance method. theSun to a link to a report citing its
were aged between 15 and 18 (872 cases) Miros chairman Datuk Suret Singh for p-hailing (food and parcel “zero tolerance policy on traffic
and between 19 and 40 at 668 cases. Other told theSun. Next is beating the red delivery) riders in April. Records show that motor- violations and reckless driving”.
age categories made up 168 cases. lights (16%), using the phone while Under the programme, cyclists are the most vulnerable
riding (15%), riding against the statistics and facts on road safety among road users. Statistics from “Our riders are required to
Abd Jalil said Johor recorded the highest traffic (7%) and making illegal U- and defensive riding are shared the police show that there were a attend driver safety training and
number of cases with 101 between 2019 and turns (5%). with the riders, he added. total of 6,176 road fatalities in 2019, practical assessments and are
2020. However, he said as for this year up But, Suret said, training on road and motorcyclists accounted for equipped with helmets as well as
until May, Selangor has the highest number “Such actions can cause them safety is only part of the solution. 3,959 or 64% of them. Last year, reflective jackets,” the report said.
of cases at 117. to lose control of their motorcycles “Rider must also put on the proper there were 4,653 fatalities, with
and cause road accidents. At high motorcyclists accounting for 3,118 Grab added that it can also
He said 75.1% of the suicide cases were speed, it could be fatal,” Suret or 67% of the total. “gauge the road performance of
committed by hanging, followed by drivers and riders via fatigue
jumping off high-rise buildings at 13.6% Suret said that since the monitoring and telematics
and consuming poison at 5.7%. movement control order was reports”.
imposed, the number of food
“Our investigations showed that the delivery riders had risen to meet Foodpanda declined to
three main causes that led to the victims the demand for delivery services. respond to theSun’s request for
taking their lives are family problems, comments.
depression and financial issues.

“We all have a responsibility to play a
role in addressing this issue. Those with
issues related to finance, family and mental
health should be assisted and given support
by their family and close friends,” he said.

Robbery gang busted FOR
PROTECTION ...
PETALING JAYA: A robbery gang made up Accompanied by her
of hardcore criminals who preyed on mother Nor Sharifah
victims in the district here was busted in a Ab Malek, 52, Anis
police operation on Wednesday. Sabrina Roslan, 23, a
person with
Petaling Jaya police chief ACP disability, receives
Mohamad Fakhrudin Abdul Hamid said the Covid-19 vaccine
yesterday that five suspects of the gang, at the community-
aged between 21 and 48, were arrested at based rehabilitation
an undisclosed location here at about 8pm. centre in Teluk Air
Tawar, North
He said the suspects are believed to be Seberang Perai,
behind at least five robberies and a Penang yesterday.
motorcycle theft in PJ and Subang Jaya. –MASRY CHE
ANI/THESUN
Mohamad Fakhrudin said checks
showed that four of the suspects have 41
criminal records for serious crimes and
drug-related offences.

He said a suspect had also been held
under the Prevention of Crime Act thrice.

Mohamad Fakhrudin said the latest
case committed by the suspects was on
Saturday when they held up a security
guard at his house in Section 19 here.

He said seven robbers, who were armed
with knives and came on four motorcycles,
entered the victim’s house and also
rounded up his housemates before
bundling their cellphones and other
valuables estimated to be worth RM2,500.

Mohamad Fakhrudin said the victims
were unharmed.

He said on Wednesday, police managed
to trace the suspects before laying an
ambush to nab them.

4 theSUN ON FRIDAY | JULY 2, 2021

NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS

Need to ramp Teachers learning to deal
up screenings with work-from-home stress

Sanjay said the best way to
fight the infection is to enable
the authorities to be notified of From
a positive case within 24 hours
so that contact tracing can be front
page

done within 48 hours.
Malaysian Medical Association now realises, has led her to feel burnt out.
president Datuk Dr M. Subramaniam o Demanding requirements of conducting online lessons and There are healthy ways to cope with the new
said the higher transmission rate of the being constantly available leave many feeling burnt out
Delta variant is obvious. normal in teaching, according to Louis.
He cited a study in Scotland that has He said staying healthy by engaging in
been published in the peer-review
medical journal The Lancet, which █ BY ELWIN DAVA digital environment. enough exercise can help ease the stress.
stated that people infected with the [email protected] Primary school teacher D. Sharon could “Apart from that, teachers should
Delta variant are 85% more likely to PETALING JAYA: It takes a lot to be a teacher.
need hospitalisation compared with not agree more. re-evaluate their perspective. They should
those infected with the original strain The stress level for educators has soared to “Working from home requires double the consider a more positive approach to online
first discovered in Wuhan. new heights of late as they strive to meet the teaching rather than dwell on the negative
Like Sanjay, he also recommends challenges that come with the learning-from- effort, thereby causing twice as much stress.” aspects.”.
vaccination as the best protection home structure. Teachers now no longer have specific hours
against the Delta variant. He advised teachers to connect with friends
“Double masking will also help.” Among others, the inability to cope with to clock in and out. virtually, pointing out that any type of social
Given that the variant is more modern technology in a healthy way, a “We have to respond to queries from support helps to ease the sense of isolation that
transmissible, Subramaniam said there condition usually referred to as “techno- may lead to depression and anxiety.
is a need to double efforts to speed up stress”, has left teachers unable to achieve a parents and students at all hours, day and
vaccination, especially in states and work-life balance. night.” “Pick up a new pastime that does not need
cities with a high population. additional screen time on weekends, such as
“People who work in the essential “They are spending too much time in front A major challenge is the inability of gardening, reading or cooking,” he added.
services sector should be given priority of the computer, giving assignments and students to join online classes because of poor
to get the vaccination as they are assessing students’ performance as well as internet connection. Senior university lecturer Asil Ghebllawi
physically present at the workplace attending meetings,” said counselling has successfully adjusted to the new normal
with colleagues for long hours,” he said. psychologist Dr Gerard Louis, who is also dean “When half of your students have trouble despite initially feeling that she was not in a
“We need to double our efforts to at the Faculty of Behavioural Sciences, staying connected, it is stifling,” she added. “decent place” to perform properly.
increase vaccinations to prevent a Education and Languages at HELP University.
surge of this variant, which can put a Secondary school teacher V. Guna said she “This would not have been possible if not
further strain on our healthcare Louis said among other factors, techno- prefers face-to-face teaching. for the support of my faculty, the university
system.” stress is caused by the need to work in a digital and my students.”
Equally important is mass screening environment for extended periods, leading to “It’s more effective, students enjoy their
to detect and isolate those who have “techo-overload”. lessons and they are more confident.” She said the toughest part was persuading
been infected as early as possible, her students to pay attention.
Subramaniam added. Coupled with that is the need to be “Even with the most up-to-date
constantly available to the point where technology, the planning and interaction with “As time passed, I have come to understand
information and communication technology is students is a bit more complicated online.” that I need to embrace the reality that my
used excessively in one’s daily life (techno- students also want their free time, which is why
invasion), or the need to be competent in a There have been as many types of response I constantly check on their mental well-being.
to such stress.
“I ask them if they need more time with
Guna opts to meditate and attend their work.”
motivational classes. She does workouts in her
spare time, and watches her favourite TV And after her son has gone to bed, Asil gives
series to maintain her mental health. her mind a rest by watching a mind-numbing
TV show.
Sharon chooses to suppress it, which she

Former masseur offers garbage collection services

TUMPAT: “I’m not ashamed of year and now he has more than 40 number of clients increased after I Labu in Pasir Pekan. depending on the distance between
collecting garbage. I’m doing a halal regular clients. posted it on Facebook.” “I will go to my customers’ houses his house and the location.
job and I’m not stealing or begging,”
said Wan Ahmad Nabil Wan Abdul Wan Ahmad Nabil, who Wan Ahmad Nabil uses a to collect their garbage and later, I will “The farthest is almost 6km from
Wahid, 30, who provides door-to- previously worked as a masseur, said motorcycle with a side-carriage to dispose the bags at nearby rubbish my house and I charge between
door garbage collection services. he was inspired to start the service collect garbage in his neighbourhood bins,” said Wan Ahmad Nabil, who is RM40 and RM50,” said Wan Ahmad
after realising its potential. in Kampung Kutan Sungai, Wakaf also a disabled person. Nabil, who also receives RM450 a
The fifth of 14 siblings started Baru, as well around Kampung Baru, month from the Social Welfare
collecting garbage in October last “I never thought people would Taman SBJ Putra and Kota Kubang He charges a monthly fee of up to Department. – Bernama
need this kind of service and the RM30 per house and RM50 per shop,

Wan Ahmad
Nabil making his
rounds at
Kampung Pasir
Pekan Hilir.
– BERNAMAPIX

Free meals for fully vaccinated individuals

GEORGE TOWN: Popular Penang He said individuals would only be have registered.”
restaurant chain Sri Ananda Bahwan entitled to one free meal and a system Customer Indran Rengasamy, 76,
is helping the National Covid-19 has been put in place to register those
Immunisation Programme by who have been served. said the promotion is good
offering free meals to those who have encouragement for everyone to get
been fully vaccinated. “For the past two days since we vaccinated and he said he was
ran this promotion, response has thrilled to be treated to a free meal
Its group director Veera been overwhelming. We have after having completed his
Harikrishnan said the promotion, distributed close to 500 packs of free vaccination May 17.
from 11am to 2pm from June 28 to meals and we will be doing this
July 4, runs at all its 13 outlets and promotion from time to time. He said while response for the
fully vaccinated customers can enjoy immunisation programme was
the restaurant’s signature chicken “We hope it will help encourage improving, the number of Indians
biryani meal for free. registration as government statistics registering for vaccination was still
show only about 76% of Penangites not high. – Bernama

Surviving Covid-19 5theSUN ON FRIDAY | JULY 2, 2021

Huge success with NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS

Inoculation for
construction
sector workers

petite pastries KUALA LUMPUR: About two million
doses of vaccines are needed to ensure
o Amid the lockdown, a flight attendant finds all workers in the construction sector
joy and profit in solo home-baking venture are immunised against Covid-19 to
enable them to continue contributing
█ BY ELLY FAZANIZA finally made the decision to invest Tan showing some her colourful and delicious creations. to the economic development of the
[email protected] RM1,000 of her savings into her – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUN country.
THEY only come in bite sizes, but start-up.
flight attendant-turned-baker Tan “My parents helped to boost my mid-flight, expecting it to be Works Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah
Lay Yen is hoping that her petite “It wasn’t an easy decision to confidence, and I have a brother available. Even if we do not have the Yusof said based on records, there were
pastries will soon make a big make. I was afraid people would not who has a sweet tooth and he often item, we have to find a way to please almost one million construction
impact. buy my cookies.” gives feedback,” she said. the passenger and ensure that he is workers registered with the
well cared for,” she said. Construction Industry Development
The cookies and tarts, aptly But her worries were soon put to Her experience as a flight Board (CIDB), of which 70% were locals
branded as Petite Crumbs, have rest. It helps that she also has a attendant also helped to make her Such experience have come in and 30% foreigners.
been teasing the palate not only in passion for baking and is happy to be patient when managing her handy in her business venture. Just
the Klang Valley where Tan is based, in the kitchen. customers’ needs and wants. like her passengers, her customers Fadillah said the ministry was
but also in Penang and Ipoh. also have specific requirements that actively carrying out the immunisation
Tan started with three items, “Being on long haul flights and she has to try to fulfil. process for workers in the sector
Tan ventured into her new found namely pineapple tarts, peanut having to be on our feet most of the through the Construction Industry
pursuit when the pandemic cookies and onde-onde cookies for a day is a drain on your energy.” But for the 33-year-old from Vaccination Programme (CIVac) under
grounded all flights last year. touch of Peranakan culture, all of Klang, it helps by being positive. CIDB, a collaborative effort by the
which were sold at RM34 a jar. Other issues she had to deal with government and the private sector to
With time on her hands, she as a flight attendant included “Take things in good faith and expedite inoculation for the group.
decided to learn to make cookies. “The recipes are my own. The managing passengers’ needs and learn from them,” she said.
toughest to make is the onde-onde anger caused by flight cancellations. “For a start, the CIVac programme
“I have a small oven in my cookie. Unlike traditional onde- And while she waits to take off on allocated 80,000 doses of vaccine for
apartment in Tropicana Avenue and onde, mine comes with a pastry “The challenge is when a her next flight, her focus will be on 40,000 construction workers in Kuala
that was where I launched my new crust,” she said. passenger asks for something in the tarts and onde-onde cookies. Lumpur, Putrajaya and Selangor via the
venture,” she told theSun via Zoom Covid-19 Vaccine Supply Access
recently. These three items are her Guarantee Special Committee,” he said.
bestsellers. Tan is selling her pastries
The kitchen is a far cry from her through her Instagram account He was speaking to reporters after
usual workplace inside the cabin of @petitecrumbsmy. observing a vaccination process for the
a jumbo jet but for Tan, it was a start. CIVac programme at the CIDB
Like every venture, there are Convention Centre that began
She began by making small challenges. Tan’s first big challenge yesterday, with coordinating minister
batches of the cookies for members came during Chinese New Year and for the National Covid-19
of her family and friends during Hari Raya, when the cost of Immunisation Programme Khairy
Christmas last year. ingredients shot up by 30%. Jamaluddin also present.

She took their stamp of approval “Even eggs were expensive. That Fadillah said CIDB opened
as a sign that it was time to turn it one experience taught me to be vaccination registration for all
into a business. Even so, Tan smart when doing costing.” construction workers in Kuala Lumpur,
thought long and hard before she Selangor and Putrajaya on June 21 and
Support from her family has also all slots were fully booked in less than
played a major role in her success. 24 hours, which showed that industry
players were very concerned and
TNB discounts starting this month prepared to ensure their workers are
vaccinated.
KUALA LUMPUR: A total of 9.1 industrial and agricultural tariff convention centres, theme parks steps to ensure the smooth
million domestic and non-domestic categories under low voltage, will and local airline offices. implementation of these discounts. Following the positive response to
Tenaga Nasional Bhd (TNB) benefit 1.6 million consumers. Consumers will see the discounts the programme, Fadillah said the
account holders in Peninsular TNB also stated that consumers reflected in electricity bills dated ministry would request an additional
Malaysia will benefit from targeted “A 10% discount for electricity in the peninsula will continue to from July 15. 200,000 doses for the second phase of
discounts under the National consumers in six selected business enjoy the imbalanced cost pass- the programme, involving 100,000
People’s Well-being and Economic sectors under the Pemerkasa Plus through (ICPT) rebate of two sen per “For consumers who receive bills construction workers in Penang, Johor
Recovery Package (Pemulih). initiative involves 11,800 kilowatt hour (kWh) from July to dated July 1 to 14, the July discount and Pahang.
consumers. Under Pemulih, all six December. will be included in the August bill.”
TNB announced in a statement sectors will continue to receive the He added that the vaccination
yesterday that the discounts, 10% discount until Dec 31, as According to TNB, for both The company also said centre for the CIVac programme in
ranging from 5% to 40%, will benefit announced by the Prime Minister domestic and SME customer consumers who receive bills in July Selangor would be set up at the
7.4 million domestic consumers. (Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin).” categories, the calculation of the will enjoy the discounts according to Panasonic Sports Complex in Shah
Pemulih Electricity Bill Discount is the number of days of use in the Alam on July 14.
In addition, a 5% discount to The six sectors involved are hotel based on the total monthly usage month, with the discounts given
small and medium enterprise (SME) operators, travel and tourism from July 1 to Sept 30. after taking into account the ICPT For Sabah and Sarawak, the ministry
consumers in specific commercial, agencies, shopping complexes, rebate. – Bernama is conducting a study and looking at the
“TNB is taking the necessary preparedness of both states before the
programme is expanded there, he said.

Fadillah said the ministry and CIDB
would also present a proposal to the
Covid-19 Immunisation Task Force to
conduct vaccinations at construction
sites or workers’ hostels. – Bernama

UC PVDIAD -T1E9 confirmToetadlcases PERLIS 1 KELANTAN 108 LABUAN 129
TERENGGANU 50 232
As of noon yesterday 758,967 KEDAH 250 PAHANG 195
PENANG 174 N.SEMBILAN 692
activToetcaal ses recToovtearlies Death toll
PERAK 149 311 SABAH
65,453 688,260 5,254 SELANGOR 2,885
New cases JOHOR SARAWAK 544
New recoveries New fatalities K. LUMPUR 988
6,988 PUTRAJAYA 10

MALACCA

270

Total in ICU 5,580 84

917

6 theSUN ON FRIDAY | JULY 2, 2021 BRIEFS CELEB-TARGETING
NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS BURGLARS JAILED

Xi hails ‘irreversible’ rise of PARIS: A court here has
China at party centenary sentenced eight people to up
to six years in prison for being
o President says part of a gang of burglars who
era of being bullied scaled buildings to steal
is gone forever millions in valuables from the
rich and famous. The seven
BEIJING: President Xi Jinping hailed A protester with a Union flag mask being detained at Causeway Bay after police denied permission for a rally during the men and one woman, aged
China’s “irreversible” course from 24th anniversary of Hong Kong’s return to Chinese rule yesterday. – REUTERSPIX between 27 and 31, were
colonial humiliation to great-power accused of burgling top
status at the centenary celebrations On the self-ruled island of Taiwan In the summer of 1921, Mao and a Four activists marched with a football players as well as
for the Chinese Communist Party – which Beijing views as part of its clutch of Marxist-Leninist thinkers in banner near the official anniversary music and TV personalities in
yesterday, in a speech reaching deep territory – Xi was unflinching as he Shanghai founded the Communist reception yesterday – tailed by 200 seven burglaries in 2018 and
into history to remind patriots at called for the “complete reunification Party, which has since morphed into police officers, a fraction of the 2019. Operating in units of two,
home and rivals abroad of his of the motherland”. one of the world’s most powerful thousands deployed across the city to three or four, they robbed the
nation’s – and his own – ascendancy. political organisations. deter protesters from mobilising. homes of TV host Patrick
“All sons and daughters of China, Sebastien, celebrity chef Jean
Speaking above the giant portrait including compatriots on both sides Yesterday also marks the 24th “The CCP can go to hell,” a Hong Pierre Vigato and an unnamed
of Mao Zedong which dominates of the strait, must work together and anniversary of Hong Kong’s return to Konger, who gave his name only as wealthy Saudi national, taking
Tiananmen Square, from the podium move forward in solidarity, and Chinese rule – a date once met with Ken, said. a combined €4.2 million (RM21
where the famous chairman resolutely crush any Taiwan mass demonstrations against Beijing million) worth of goods. – AFP
proclaimed the People’s Republic of independence plots.” inside the former British colony. “Anything that’s worthwhile, they
China in 1949, Xi said the “era of destroy.” – AFP TURKEY EXITS
China being bullied is gone forever”, FEMICIDE TREATY
praising the party for raising incomes
and restoring national pride. ANKARA: Turkey yesterday
formally exited a treaty
Drawing a line from the combatting femicide and
subjugation of the Opium Wars to the domestic abuse, in a
struggle to establish a socialist controversial move by
revolution in China, Xi said the party President Recep Tayyip
had brought about “national Erdogan condemned by the
rejuvenation” lifting tens of millions West and rights groups. The
from poverty and “altered the 2011 pact, signed by 45
landscape of world development”. countries and the European
Union, requires governments
Xi, wearing a Mao-style jacket, to adopt legislation linked to
said the “great rejuvenation of the the prosecution of crimes
Chinese nation has entered an including marital rape and
irreversible historical course” and female genital mutilation.
vowed to continue to build a Erdogan’s move came as he
“world-class” military to defend clings onto support from
national interests. conservative and nationalist
groups to maintain his rule.
“The Chinese people will never Erdogan’s aide Fahrettin Altun
allow any foreign forces to bully, said the treaty’s references to
oppress, or enslave us,” Xi said in his gender-based abuses had
speech, to great applause. been “hijacked by people
attempting to normalise
“Whoever wants to do so will face homosexuality”. – AFP
bloodshed in front of a Great Wall of
steel built by more than 1.4 billion Britney’s father
Chinese people.” stays as guardian

Cosby freed after court quashes sex crimes conviction WASHINGTON: A Los Angeles
court denied Britney Spears’
WASHINGTON: US comedian Bill attorney and Cosby over evidence he Lawyer Lisa Bloom said she and He filed his second appeal against request to eject her father from a
Cosby was freed from prison on gave in a civil case meant the actor the three Cosby accusers that she his conviction in August last year. guardianship arrangement that
Wednesday, in a blow to the #MeToo should not have been charged. represents were “disgusted that he is gives him control of her affairs, US
movement after a US court a free man today”. The attorneys argued it was media reported yesterday.
overturned his conviction for “Cosby’s convictions and “fundamentally unfair” that
drugging and sexually assaulting a judgment of sentence are vacated, Cosby served more than two years deposition testimony Cosby gave in a The decision comes a week
woman 17 years ago. and he is discharged,” they wrote. of a three-to-ten-year sentence for civil case regarding his use of sedative after she made an impassioned
aggravated indecent assault and has drugs and his sexual behaviours in plea to end the “abusive”
The 83-year-old flashed the V sign Cosby left SCI Phoenix, a state jail always maintained his innocence. the 1970s was heard in court. conservatorship during which she
outside his home near Philadelphia 56km northwest of Philadelphia, just said she has been medicated to
after leaving jail following a before 2.30pm, said a spokesman for Although more than 60 women He had admitted giving control her behaviour, prohibited
Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruling Pennsylvania’s Department of charged that they had been victims of Quaaludes, a now banned party drug, from making decisions on
that he had been denied a fair trial. Corrections. sexual assault by Cosby, he was tried to women with a view to having sex friendships or finances, and
criminally only for Constand’s with them. prevented from having a
He did not answer reporters’ His conviction was the first guilty assault, since the statute of contraceptive implant removed,
questions. verdict for sexual assault against a limitations had expired in the other The attorneys argued that Cosby despite wanting more children.
celebrity since the advent of the cases. believed the testimony was immune
Cosby was convicted in 2018 of worldwide reckoning against sexual from prosecution when he gave it but The Los Angeles Superior
assaulting Andrea Constand at his violence and abuse of power dubbed Cosby – who starred in the hit TV the acknowledgment formed a key Court ruling made on Wednesday
Philadelphia mansion in 2004. the #MeToo movement. series The Cosby Show in the 1980s – part of his trial. was in connection to a request
has insists that the encounter with filed in September by Spears’
But the judges wrote in a 79-page Accusers of Cosby and supporters Constand, a Temple University The non-prosecution agreement lawyer to add wealth management
decision that a non-prosecution of the movement expressed anger at employee, was consensual. meant he should not have been firm Bessemer Trust to the
agreement between a former district his release. charged, the judges said. – AFP conservatorship and remove her
father Jamie Spears, CNN said.
Prosecutors seek five-year jail term for former K-pop star
“The request to suspend James
SEOUL: South Korean military He enlisted as an army conscript jail term and a 20 million won public backlash over the scandal and P. Spears immediately upon the
prosecution demanded a five-year last year, with the military court (RM75,000) fine. formal investigations caused him to appointment of Bessemer Trust
prison term for disgraced former hearing his trial. retire from showbiz in 2019. Company of California as sole
K-pop star Seungri over charges “Even though the accused is the conservator of estate is denied
stemming from a sex and drug All able-bodied South Korean one who benefited the most from the Seungri, whose real name is Lee without prejudice,” Judge Brenda
scandal, reports said yesterday. men are obliged to fulfil around two crime, he is blaming others and Seung-hyun, is accused of habitual Penny said in court filings seen by
The 30-year-old singer from years of military service to defend the severe punishment is needed,” local overseas gambling at luxurious CNN.
popular boyband BigBang has been country from nuclear-armed North reports cited prosecutors as saying. casinos in Las Vegas involving illicit
indicted on accusations including Korea, with which it remains foreign exchange transactions. Spears’ father has asked the
arranging prostitution, technically at war. BigBang enjoyed widespread court to investigate the music
embezzlement and illicit gambling. fame following its 2006 debut and He is also suspected of arranging superstar’s allegations that she
Military prosecutors yesterday Seungri went on to become a sex services for potential investors in was medicated with lithium and
asked the judge to impose a five-year successful businessman, but the his business.– AFP made to perform against her will.

The 39-year-old star’s finances
and personal life have been largely
managed by the older Spears since
her highly public breakdown more
than a decade ago, leading some
adoring fans to launch a
“FreeBritney” online campaign in
recent years. – AFP

7theSUN ON FRIDAY | JULY 2, 2021

* NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS

Indonesia to impose ‘emergency’ curbs

o Move necessary to weeks, prompting warnings from restaurant dining and the closure of said Australia was donating A$77 are being pushed to the brink.
avoid outbreak ‘as bad health experts the outbreak could be non-essential offices. million (RM240 million) to help buy In the capital, Jakarta, some
as India’s second wave’ as bad as India’s devastating second vaccines and more would arrive
wave if tighter measures are not They will be applied on the most soon, including four million shots of emergency wards have been moved
JAKARTA: President Joko Widodo introduced. populous island of Java and the the Moderna Inc vaccine. to tents set up in hospital car parks to
said yesterday that Indonesia will holiday island of Bali. free up isolation rooms, while people
impose emergency measures until “With cooperation from all of us Indonesia, which has relied queue up to buy oxygen tanks for sick
July 20 to contain an exponential and the grace of God, I’m certain that Grappling with the worst outbreak mostly on China’s Sinovac vaccine, relatives at home.
spike in coronavirus cases that has we can suppress Covid-19 in Southeast Asia, Indonesia has aims to inoculate 181.5 million
strained the medical system. transmission and restore people’s reported record daily Covid-19 cases people by January but has only The bed occupancy rate in
lives quickly,” said the president, who on seven of the past 11 days, reached about 7.5% of that target. Jakarta’s hospitals hit 93% this week.
There has been an alarming climb is known as Jokowi, as he announced including yesterday, with 24,836 new
in virus cases in the world’s fourth the stricter measures. infections and 504 deaths, both new The highly transmissible Delta Hospitals across Java are also
most populous country in recent highs. variant that caused a spike in cases in nearly full.
The measures, from Saturday, aim India in April and May,
to halve the number of daily virus Indonesia has recorded about 2.2 overwhelming healthcare facilities Home Affairs Minister Tito
cases to fewer than 10,000, and million cases overall and 58,995 and swamping crematoriums, is Karnavian told a news conference the
include tighter restrictions on deaths. spreading in Indonesia. restrictions would be evaluated after
movement and air travel, a ban on three weeks and could be extended if
Health Minister Budi Gunadi Hospitals across crowded Java infections do not come down.
Sadikin pledged to boost testing and – Reuters

BRIEFS CASES IN EUROPE UP Tourists land in reopened ‘no-quarantine’ Phuket
AGAIN AFTER 10 WEEKS
BANGKOK: The first international travellers island 15 times and would spend eight days Covid-19 wave and the worrying detection of
COPENHAGEN: The World Health touched down yesterday in the holiday hotspot relaxing. the Alpha and Delta coronavirus variants.
Organisation yesterday said Covid of Phuket under a quarantine-free scheme, as
cases were on the rise again in Thailand tries to reboot its battered tourism “After two years of not travelling, I’ve chosen Nationwide, the current case tally is at more
Europe after two months of decline industry while also enduring its worst the Phuket sandbox to change my mood,” the than 260,000.
and warned a new wave would coronavirus outbreak. 37-year-old said.
come“unless we remain disciplined”. But Phuket remains relatively unscathed as
“Last week, the number of cases Tourism makes up almost a fifth of the Thai A British tourist said he would stay for a Thai authorities have rolled out a mass
rose by 10%, driven by increased economy, and the Covid-19 pandemic has led month and was looking forward to a family vaccination campaign in preparation for the
mixing, travel, gatherings and to its worst performance since the 1997 Asian reunion. quarantine-free arrivals, with 70% of the
easing of social restrictions,“ WHO financial crisis. island’s residents receiving at least one dose.
regional director for Europe Hans “My children live here so I’m going to see my
Kluge told a press conference. The kingdom is pinning its hopes of a kids,” he said. Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha travelled
“There will be a new wave in the much-needed revival on the so-called “Phuket to Phuket for the launch and said the pilot
WHO European Region unless we sandbox” – a model that will allow vaccinated French consultant Bruno Souillard, 60, said scheme would provide the basis for reopening
remain disciplined,“ he said. Kluge travellers to visit without quarantine. the scheme would allow him to eventually get the entire country in October.
cautioned this reversal came in the to his holiday home elsewhere in Thailand,
context of rising cases of the Delta The first 25 travellers arrived on an Etihad without being quarantined. “Phuket citizens should be proud as they are
variant, first detected in India, which Airways flight before noon and underwent fulfilling their duty for the entire nation,” he told
he said “overtakes Alpha very screening procedures. “It is annoying to spend vacations locked up reporters at the Royal Phuket City Hotel.
quickly“, referring to the variant that in a hotel for 15 days and (here) we are not
first emerged in Britain. – AFP Among them was Omar Al Raessi, from the locked up so that’s great,” he said. “We would like the Phuket sandbox to be
UAE, who said he had previously been to the successful so it can be applied as guidelines for
RUSSIA POSTS RECORD The launch of the quarantine-free scheme our goals.” – AFP
DEATHS FOR THIRD DAY comes as Thailand grapples with its worst-ever
Iraqi restauranteurs
MOSCOW: Russia yesterday Army patrols Dhaka streets in strict lockdown pay bribes to dodge
reported 672 coronavirus deaths curfew restrictions
over the past 24 hours, setting a DHAKA: The Bangladesh army and police deserted as soldiers in military fatigues carried
pandemic high of fatalities for the patrolled empty streets yesterday as a strict out patrols and set up checkpoints. BAGHDAD: It’s well past the coronavirus
third day in a row. The country is week-long Covid-19 lockdown began, with curfew, but Seif and his waiters are still
battling a surging outbreak driven people confined to their homes except for Dhaka’s police chief told reporters that serving customers at his Baghdad restaurant,
by the highly infectious Delta emergencies and to buy essentials. anyone leaving home without a good reason thanks to security forces they have paid to
variant and worsened by a lagging would be fined and may face arrest. turn a blind eye.
jab drive, with President Vladimir The government has said the South Asian
Putin urging Russians on national nation of 168 million people is seeing an “If we need to file 5,000 cases and arrests a After Covid-19 restrictions hammered his
television on Wednesday to get “alarming and dangerous” rise in cases, blamed day, we will,” Shafiqul Islam said. business last year, Seif said he decided to do
vaccinated. The daily death toll largely on the highly infectious Delta variant. what many of his neighbours in the capital’s
released yesterday topped The shutdown announcement last week central Karrada district were doing.
Wednesday’s record of 669 and 652 Hospitals are struggling, particularly in areas sparked an exodus of migrant workers from
on Tuesday. Saint Petersburg saw bordering India where the strain was first Dhaka, with thousands cramming onto Despite the nightly 9pm to 5am curfew,
the most deaths, with 115. – AFP detected. Some rural towns have recorded dangerously packed ferries in the delta nation. various security forces deployed in the area
infection rates of 70%. solicited bribes in exchange for allowing
TORRENTIAL STREET ... “We are hopeful these tough measures will establishments to stay open, he said.
Vehicles ploughing through a On the first day of the week-long shutdown, work. We have to contain the virus at any cost,”
river-like road in Havana after heavy Dhaka’s normally bustling streets were said health department spokesman Like others AFP interviewed, Seif declined
rain and malfunctioning sewers Robed Amin. – AFP to provide his full name or the name of his
caused flooding in the Cuban restaurant for fear of reprisal.
capital. – AFPPIX
“Each week, I have to give them 500,000
dinars (RM1,400)”, he said. The amount is
close to Iraq’s average monthly wage.

“Certain security force officers have
become (like) business partners,” he added
bitterly.

Restaurant and cafe owners were among
the 65% of small and medium-sized
businesses in Iraq that saw their revenues
plummet during a spring lockdown last year.

The UN says such businesses had to sack a
quarter of their employees and received no
support from the oil-dependent state – itself
facing an unprecedented fiscal crunch caused
by low crude prices.

Seif had to shut his business for six months
due to last year’s coronavirus lockdown.

Iraq officially counts some 22,000
restaurants and cafes, although many others
operate unlicensed.

Ziad, a cafe owner on a Baghdad street
famous for its restaurants, said he had given in
to the pressure.

“I don’t see why I should be the only one
the law applies to. All the cafes and
restaurants around here pay bribes and stay
open, so I did the same.”

Iraq has officially recorded about 1,340,000
coronavirus cases and more than 17,000
deaths since the start of its outbreak, although
many cases go undetected due to low testing.
– AFP

8 theSUN ON FRIDAY | JULY 2, 2021
SPEAK UP

Stop the closure of companies, please
THE movement control order
(MCO) in its various stages since of being shut down. “These seem- vital for the economy, downgraded to It is also long overdue for setting the
last year has left behind untold The goods that a particular factory ingly endless only Phase 4 of the vaccination process priorities right in terms of who gets the
miseries to companies, lockdowns in the first place? vaccine first and when.
especially the small and medium produces might be deemed might have
enterprises and it’s long overdue for the non-essential for the daily needs of the contributed to We all appreciate the tough balancing It’s a tough call, yes, but if the
National Security Council (NSC), that man in the street during the lockdown efforts in act that people running the National economy continues to slip on the
decides on the prolonged lockdowns, to but for these factories themselves, it’s a containing Immunisation Programme or the banana skin with the nation reportedly
give this their utmost attention. matter of business survival. infections of vaccine rollout have had to handle but if losing an estimated RM1 billion daily, it
the virus but a much higher priority had been given to would severely impact the government’s
It was reported recently that about They have their own market, the politician- workplaces like factories, then it would affordability to fund the various aid
100,000 companies have ceased contractual and supply chain led NSC must not be necessary to close their programmes for the needy, including
operations since the first MCO and commitments to fulfil and such also get down operations, and the economy and the just announced RM150 billion
another 50,000 are expected to fold at disruptions or stoppages in operations to serious employees would be much better off package.
the end of the current total lockdown of due to the MCO is only killing them off. discussions to surviving in the health crisis.
six weeks. restrategise. With massive loss of jobs and
The Federation of Malaysian I can’t understand why Khairy businesses, especially the smaller ones
Even if we just assume, for Manufacturers wants the government to Jamaluddin, the coordinating minister being forced to cease operations due to
argument’s sake, the very conservative be more understanding as some for the programme, had to explain that the seemingly endless lockdowns, we
average of one company employing 10 sections of the supply chain may not be the vaccination process for industries Malaysians must be alarmingly grieved
workers, that’s one million people out of seen to be essential but they make will not affect or take anything away by the daily videos posted on social
job and half a million more to follow suit! products that are needed by those in from the mainstream vaccination. media of people committing suicide as
essential services. they can no longer put up with the
There must be a large number among It’s as if the people who run mental stress.
these companies that are factory To worsen the trauma on these livelihoods or the economy are less
operations and the manufacturing industries, then comes the bureacractic important than their so-called According to police statistics, 631
sector itself is a major source of red tape that’s so common in the civil mainstream counterparts while at the suicides were reported in 2020, while up
employment being a key component of service. same breath the authorities are to May this year, there have been 468
our economy. concerned about the factory clusters. suicides.
A recent survey showed that 55% of
The biggest question that begs those supplying essential items have had Once again it’s a no brainer. Had These seemingly endless lockdowns
answers here is why was such massive their applications to continue operating common sense been applied in might have contributed to efforts in
decimation of these companies allowed rejected. decision-making, if industry workers containing infections of the virus but the
to happen without something drastic had been among the first to get their politicians-led NSC must also get down
being done to stop or prevent the “For those supplying services, they vaccine jabs without the need for them to serious discussions to restrategise.
disaster? were asked to refer to the respective to wait for a long time by registering with
ministries. There is also no longer a form the MySejahtera app, then at least the I’m saying this amid calls from
In the case of the manufacturing on the ministry website as the link is workers can continue to work in safe independent medical experts for a
sector, so many companies have had to directed back to the Covid-19 Intelligent environment while complying with the targeted approach instead of a broad
shut down in compliance with the System,” said Yeoh Seng Hooi, secretary- standing operating procedures. sweeping lockdown nationwide.
lockdown order because they are general of the Small and Medium
categorised as non-essential. Enterprises Association. And we could indeed avoid a The experts said a targeted approach
situation where a major furniture factory aimed at the worst-hit areas would not
And as the authorities issuing the Applicants who are already in dire in Kelantan, with over 1,200 workers, only be more effective at saving lives but
order have said, the move is due to financial straits have been pushed from was ordered closed for two weeks last also minimise the impact on the
what’s known as the “factory cluster” one ministry to another with no end in week because some workers were found physical, mental and financial health of
that led to the high infections of Covid- sight. to be Covid-19 positive. the vast majority of the population.
19 in industrialised states like Selangor.
It saddens me that at a time when the Miti as the agency overseeing the Let us all hope that the medical
In all fairness, it’s wrong for civil industry in general expects those industries should lobby hard with those experts sitting on the NSC take heed of
servants at the Ministry of International running the public service to facilitate running the vaccine rollout to speed up this novel proposal instead of being
Trade and Industry (Miti) for instance, to the situation already gravely worsened the inoculation of such workers instead paranoid about their business-as-usual
classify factory A or B as non-essential by the pandemic, they now have to put of being satisfied when they are approach.
and therefore they have to suffer the fate up with such pathetic treatment. relegated to Phase 4 of the programme.
Comments: [email protected]
If the fear of Miti is about the clusters
of infection, then why is this sector, that’s

COMMENT byAmandaYeo

Mental health is critical and needs to be addressed

DESPITE Malaysia having imposed the first jobs and income, loss of a place of dependence, decent job with decent pay during this health worker rights.
phase of the National Recovery Plan (NRP) for ongoing financial distress and family issues crisis. Meanwhile, MoWFCD could expedite
four weeks (June 1 to June 28), there is no sign of arising from long isolation.
recovery – the Covid-19 daily infection figures According to the Department of Statistics outreach programmes, especially to single
remain above the 5,000 mark and death figures The mental illness symptom is also Malaysia’s Employment Statistics First Quarter mothers, disabled communities and the elderly.
continued to increase. applicable among medical frontliners. 2021, 62.4% are semi-skilled jobs while 13.1%
Exhaustion from long working hours and are low-skilled jobs. Besides organising more awareness
In a recent analysis from Code Blue, there are pandemic fatigue for more than one year have campaigns, MOH could engage the community
more than 5,300 daily infections on average last caused many medical frontliners to suffer from Although the work-from-home (WFH) to ask, listen and stimulate action.
week, with a 7.4% positive rate of undetected severe burnout, according to the MOH’s recent concept has become common during this new
cases. survey among 893 health workers. normal, employees might have no idea of the For example, MOH could invite mental
appropriate timing to switch off after work. WFH health practitioners to organise door-to-door
What is even worse is the Covid-19 death Out of the 893 respondents, over half of them could blur the line between work life and visits, understanding inner needs and problems
figures nationwide increased from an average of reported personal-related burnout, followed by personal life, according to clinical psychologist among the vulnerable communities besides
72 deaths a day in the week of June 13-19 to 77 39.1% suffered from work-related burnout while Lum Khay Xian of Relate Mental Health providing psychological first aid-based
deaths daily in the past week from June 20-26. 17.4% experienced patient-related burnout. Malaysia. helplines for them to express their psychosocial
concerns.
Therefore, a record-high of 6,437 new Covid- Although the current administration has As employees have to meet increasing
19 patients and 107 deaths yesterday (June 29) introduced an additional RM150 billion worth of demands from employers by sacrificing their Community groups with social workers
poses an increasing fear that the prolonged Pemulih on June 28, the extension of the country leisure activities in the WFH environment, could mobilise them to play a preventive role by
lockdown would cause more Malaysians to fall lockdown from June 28 onwards continues to longer working hours would ultimately result in working together with counsellors, psychiatrists
into mental illness. raise concerns for the low-income group, small more stress, compromised quality of sleep, and clinical psychologists – addressing early
and medium enterprises (SMEs) and youths. depression, anxiety, diabetes and heart disease. symptoms of depression through peer
And eventually, some of them would choose assistance groups.
to commit crimes to survive or choose suicide as This is especially true for the hardcore poor As part of the mental health advocacy effort,
a way to end their miserable lives. and B40 households, who can’t afford to put the government has agreed to allocate RM15 To strengthen the media reporting of mental
food on the table. Many of them would still million to non-governmental organisations illness, the MOH should also set up a media
According to the Health Ministry Director- choose to go to the soup kitchen for food or to (NGOs) in assisting the government in guideline, promoting close collaboration with
General Tan Sri Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah, seek shelter during this total lockdown before addressing social issues such as mental health, regional and national media, and psychosocial
there was already an increasing number of receiving cash assistance under the Pemulih homelessness and other social problems in the experts who could educate journalists on the
suicide cases before the Covid-19 pandemic package from August onwards. Pemulih package. negative implications of mental illness and the
early last year. importance of mental health. This would ensure
Although the Small and Medium Enterprises Nevertheless, MOH should take the lead to the journalists report the correct facts of mental
In 2019, there were 609 suicide cases Association welcomed the six-month loan foster cross-ministry collaboration with the illness.
reported in Malaysia, followed by 631 in 2020 moratorium initiative for all individuals and Education Ministry (MOE), Youth and Sports
and 336 cases in the first quarter of 2021. micro-enterprises in the Pemulih package, Ministry (MOYS), Human Resources Ministry The White Flag Movement (#BenderaPutih)
many SMEs might continue to face trouble (MOHR) and MoWFCD. might be a good sign of advocating the
The first quarter figure not only implies that getting it. Instead of an automatic opt-in, it is still #kitajagakita spirit among Malaysians, assisting
over half of the total number of suicides last year subject to the bank’s approval. For instance, MOE could make mental health those in dire need of food and essentials during
had occurred, but also shows almost four a part of the education curriculum, empowering such trying times.
suicide cases reported to police every single day. Indeed, it is a good start for the current teachers to create a supportive learning
administration to allocate RM125 million environment for students to cope with stress However, in the long run, the current
In addition, the statistics from Jan 1 to June 18 through the Human Resource Development better. administration still has to continuously care
revealed that 89.4% (109,806 out of 122,328 calls) Corporation (HRD Corp) to implement “Place about the inner needs of the rakyat, addressing
were related to mental health issues that and Train” initiatives under the Janapreneur MOYS could also encourage youth the root cause of mental illness for the benefit of
required emotional and psychological support. programme for school leavers and graduates in organisations to create a supportive and all Malaysians.
The helplines were managed by the Health the Pemulih package. enabling environment for at-risk youths who
Ministry (MOH), Women, Family and require more emotional support to have a Amanda Yeo is a research analyst at EMIR
Community Development Ministry (MoWFCD) However, as Malaysia’s job market comprises greater sense of belonging in the community. Research, an independent think tank focused on
and the Department of Islamic Development mostly semi-skilled and low-skilled jobs,
(Jakim). aspiring university graduates and fresh On the other hand, MOHR could consider strategic policy recommendations based on
graduates would still find it difficult in securing a implementing a WFH policy or introducing rigorous research. Comments:
The factors that led to mental illness are the new legislation to prevent the exploitation of [email protected]
loss of loved ones, new Covid-19 variants, loss of

ON FRIDAY | JULY 2, 2021

Naturally Easy Peasy Lockdown
Recipes
fresh Growyourownherbs
>>> Page S4&S5 >>> Page S3

All-new Civic
Hatchback launched

>>> Page S6

S2 Buzz

theSun BUZZ ON FRIDAY | JULY 2, 2021

█ BY ADELINE LEONG Entertainment BUZZ:
OneRepublic is back!
AFTER a long five years, o BUZZ’s Adeline Leong was invited to a roundtable press conference
OneRepublic has finally recently to promote the band’s comeback album Human
released a new album titled
Human. The album features holds significant meaning for Tedder. energy and the search for something focused and going after something.” because it’s not cheap to use,” Tedder
a mix of past hit singles and new “From a very young age, I’ve been new, exciting and different. The music video for Run was shot said and laughed.
songs.
inspired all the time. [I’m] very “To me, the song is telling you ‘Get in a real Hollywood set which was Human will also include
The band’s last album was 2017’s curious and creative. And I’m always up, get off your butt. Life is short. something the band hasn’t done previously released singles Rescue Me,
Oh My My which became its highest- thinking about where’s the next place You’re not guaranteed another day. before. which has been certified RIAA Gold,
charting debut to date, landing at No. we can go or try. I’m involved in over Get out there. Run. Wake up, look at Somebody To Love, Wanted, Didn’t I,
3 on the Billboard 200. 30 businesses and working five to six the sun, chase it down and grab life by They also didn’t have a concept and Better Days.
albums at the same time. the horns. And own it.’ That’s my idea so when director Tomas
Unfortunately, after a gruelling philosophy in life,” said Tedder. Whitmore pitched his vision, the Click the ICON
tour schedule for that album, lead “So this song [Run] is for someone band immediately said ‘yes’. They to watch the
vocalist and principal songwriter like me who kinda wants everything “When you’re running and you’re filmed at the CBS Seinfield backlot, video
Ryan Tedder was so burnt out that he in life, but obviously, you can’t moving fast, so much of the negative, which Tedder said was a really special
thought he was done with the band. because it’s impossible. It’s that depressing or distracting stuff in life moment.
constant search of that high-paced just goes by you when you’re this
According to Tedder, the tour was “It’s really special to be on that
“soul-destroying” because the band
was on the road for nine months. By
the time it got to October, he was only
able to see his family for four days out
of five months that year, with three
months of touring left to go.

Since OneRepublic had been
performing non-stop ever since they
debuted in 2007, Tedder decided
enough was enough, and decided it
was time for a break.

As such, the latest album Human
holds special meaning for both the
bandmembers and their fans. During
the roundtable press conference with
international media, Tedder shared
that Human was the hardest album to
create, because plans kept changing
due to the pandemic.

The outbreak also affected the
songwriting process for the track
Someday.

“The song that I found hard to
finish is the one called Someday,
which we wrote in Phuket and
Bangkok. The week after we left
Thailand, the song was done and I
loved it. The song has one of the best
lyrics and is the concept for the
album. The lyrics just punches you in
the gut emotionally,” said Tedder.

“When you have too much time,
it’s a mess to think about something.
You overthink it and you create
problems that didn’t exist. We were
working on Someday until about a
week ago, and we’re at our deadline
right now. We did 30 versions of it,”
Tedder added.

“Now I’m not even sure the version
on the album is the right version. It
was the hardest song to write because
we basically worked on the song for
two years,” he joked.

In Human, the single Run also

Fans abuzz over new Shang-Chi trailer Turner & Hooch
EAGLE-EYED MCU gets a reboot
fans have been
discussing a scene TURNER AND HOOCH is a Disney Plus
from the latest Shang- upcoming buddy-cop action-comedy series,
Chi and the Legend of and a sequel of sorts to the 1989 film of the
the Ten Rings trailer for same name. Actor Josh Peck stars as Scott
the past week and the Turner, the son of Detective Scott Turner
excitement online has portrayed by Tom Hanks in the old film.
not died down.
In the trailer, Shang Based on the trailer, an ambitious,
Chi (Simu Liu) and his buttoned-up US Marshal named Scott
friend, Katy Turner inherits a big unruly dog which he
(Awkwafina), can be doesn’t want. When he couldn’t get
seen watching a cage
fight with two familiar anyone else to take in the dog named
combatants. Hooch, he reluctantly cares for the dog
Although on screen for less and slowly realises that Hooch might
than two seconds, fans are just be the partner he needs.
speculating that the combatants
in the ring could very well be the The series also stars Carra Patterson
Abomination, and a character as Jessica Baxter, Scott’s brave, street-
that looks like Wong (Benedict
Wong) from Doctor Strange. smart partner; Brandon Jay
While fans can’t be 100% sure McLaren as Xavier Wilson, a cool,
of the Sorceror Supreme’s of the Abomination in the trailer Rings organisation. enigmatic marine-turned-US
sidekick’s involvement in the may just be a cameo and nothing Set for a Sept 2, 2021 release, Marshal; and Anthony Ruivivar as
movie, a recent Twitter photo of more, but fans are speculating
Simu Liu and Benedict Wong that the character’s appearance the film also stars Tony Leung as Chief James Mendez, Scott’s
together in Sydney, Australia might lead to future appearances Wenwu, Michelle Yeoh as Jing boss with a secret soft spot for
where Shang-Chi is currently in the upcoming She-Hulk series. Nan, Fala Chen, Meng’er Zhang, Scott’s new dog, Hooch.
filming is proof enough for fans. Florian Munteanu and Ronny
Spotting Abomination is a According to the official Chieng. Lyndsy Fonseca stars as
special treat for fans, because the synopsis, the film tells the story Laura Turner, Scott’s sweet,
character has not been seen since of Shang-Chi who must Click the ICON animal-loving sister; Jeremy
The Incredible Hulk starring confront the past he thought he to watch the Maguire as Matthew Garland,
Edward Norton back in 2008. left behind but finds himself video Laura’s dog-loving son; and
At first glance, the appearance getting dragged back into the Vanessa Lengies as Erica Mouniere,
web of the mysterious Ten the quirky head of the US Marshals
dog training program. The lovable
and slobbery Hooch is played by
five French Mastiffs.
Turner and Hooch premieres
exclusively on Disney Plus Hotstar
on July 21, 2021.

Buzz S3

theSun BUZZ ON FRIDAY | JULY 2, 2021

█ BY PAUL NG Simply tasty

THE ongoing pandemic has o Here are some easy and yummy meals you
probably changed our food can try at home during this lockdown period
habits for the long run. So
many of us developed a
newfound love for cooking at home,
and an entire generation of home
chefs discovered the joys of
experimenting with recipes and
ingredients (remember the Dalgona
coffee craze of 2020?).

And now with the announcement
that Phase One of the new MCO is to
last for some time, it is really putting
our skills in the kitchen to the test
when it comes to preparing nutritious
and easy-to-cook meals for the whole
family.

Fear not! Here are three simple
recipes that you can try to add a little
bit of flair to your daily meals. You can
enjoy a fluffy pancake breakfast, a
quick and easy noodle lunch and a
hearty chicken dish for dinner.

With a little ingenuity you can
modify any of these recipes to suit
your own personal tastes!

BREAKFAST:
EASY FLUFFY PANCAKES

This super easy recipe makes
delicious pancakes that are light and
fluffy and you only need a few simple
ingredients you probably have in your
kitchen right now. The best thing
about pancakes is how each family
member can tweak his or her
pancake to suit their individual tastes.

(Makes 4 servings of 2 pancakes
each)

Ingredients:

0 1 ½ cups (195 grams) all-purpose common go-to meal around the 7. Add chopped vegetables and stir 0 The second is using fresh herbs, form a paste.
flour, see tips below for how to clock. Indeed, we Malaysians love our for another 2 minutes. If you’re not which provide a lot more flavor 4. Spread the herb mixture over the
measure flour instant noodles and have come up using vegetables, skip this step. than dried herbs. chicken, making sure to get some
with a variety of interesting ways to 8. Add the prepared sauce ingredients under the skin.
0 2 tablespoons sugar elevate the dish from instant to and mix everything together. Directions: 5. Drizzle some olive oil on your
0 1 tablespoon baking powder gourmet. Here is a tried and tested 9. Add about 50ml of water to the 1. Wash the chicken breast and pat baking tray then place the chicken on
0 1/2 teaspoon of salt simple fried instant noodle recipe sauce if it is too dry. dry with kitchen towels. top of it.
0 1 ¼ cups (295 ml) milk, dairy or that will have your family coming 10. Turn the heat down to low and let 2. Next, prepare the herb mixture by 6. Sprinkle black pepper on top of the
back for more. everything simmer. finely mincing the rosemary, thyme, chicken then roast at 200 degrees
non-dairy (Makes 4 servings) 11. Do a taste test and add salt, and garlic. Make sure to use fresh Celsius or 400 Fahrenheit for 35
0 1 large egg Ingredients: pepper, light soya sauce as needed. rosemary and thyme for this recipe as minutes.
0 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, 0 4 packets of instant noodle of 12. Finally, toss your cooked noodles it will make a big difference in how 7. When you take the tray out of the
into the wok/pan and mix well before the dish tastes. Check out our oven, cover it with foil and let the
melted, plus more for the skillet. choice ( 3 if you’re using the larger serving. Don’t be afraid to add a little centrespread on the next page to chicken rest for 10 to 15 minutes
You can use salted butter, but you Ramen noodles) water to loosen the noodles if too dry. learn how to grow your own fresh before serving.
may want to reduce the amount of 0 3 tablespoons of cooking oil Bon appetite! herbs. Hopefully these recipes will give you
salt used. 0 150g - 200g of chicken breast sliced 3. Mix the herbs and garlic together some ideas for your next meal!
0 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or cubed DINNER: with the salt, pepper, and olive oil to
(optional) 0 100-200g of vegetables of choice ROSEMARY & THYME ROASTED
Directions: (lightly chopped) CHICKEN BREAST
1. Whisk flour, sugar, baking powder 0 4 cloves of garlic finely chopped This herb-infused chicken dish uses
and salt in a medium bowl. 0 1/2 teaspoon of salt only 7 ingredients is incredibly simple
2. Warm milk in the microwave or on 0 1/2 teaspoon of pepper to make yet yields a flavorful, juicy
the stove until lukewarm, not hot. Sauce: main course each time. You can serve
3. Whisk milk, egg, melted butter, and 0 1 teaspoon of fish sauce (optional this dish to accompany stir fried
vanilla extract until combined. but recommended) vegetables, soup and rice or just have
4. Heat a large skillet (or use griddle) 0 2 tablespoon of light soya sauce it as is with bread. Any leftovers can
over medium heat. The pan is ready if 0 1/2 tablespoon of dark soya sauce easily be diced and refrigerated to
when you splatter a little water onto Directions: make sandwiches for breakfast the
the pan surface, the water dances 1. Cook and drain your instant next morning.
around the pan and eventually noodles then set them aside for now (Makes 4 servings)
evaporates. 2. Heat 3 tbsp of oil in a large non- Ingredients:
5. Make a well in the centre of the stick skillet or wok on high heat. 0 Split 2 whole boneless chicken
flour mixture, pour milk mixture into 3. When the oil is hot, add the sliced
the well and use a fork or whisk to stir chicken and a generous pinch of salt breasts, skin-on
until you no longer see clumps of and pepper. 0 4 large garlic cloves finely chopped
flour. Don’t worry if the batter has 4. Stir fry for 1 minute making sure the
small lumps – it is important not to meat is cooked evenly. or grated
over-mix the batter. 5. Add in garlic and stir for another 0 2 tablespoons chopped rosemary
6. Lightly brush skillet with melted minute. 0 1 1/2 tbsp thyme
butter. Use a 1/4-cup measuring cup 6. Turn the heat down to medium. 0 1 tablespoon olive oil
to spoon batter onto the skillet. 0 ½-1 teaspoon salt
Gently spread the batter into a 4-inch 0 Freshly ground black pepper to
circle.
7. When edges look dry, and bubbles taste
start to appear and pop on the top
surfaces of the pancake, turn over.
This takes about 2 minutes. Once
flipped, cook another 1 to 2 minutes
or until lightly browned and cooked
in the middle.
8. Serve immediately with honey,
syrup, butter, berries, bananas etc.

LUNCH:
FRIED INSTANT NOODLES
Instant noodles are a staple in
Malaysian kitchens as the most

S4 Buzz

theSun BUZZ ON FRIDAY | JULY 2, 2021

Starting a herb garden
█ BY ADELINE LEONG o Having a herb garden ensures that you’re always
prepared when in the kitchen
HAVE you ever watched in wonder
and envy when celebrity chefs turn To prevent mess when it’s time to water, bundle, the easier and faster they will dry. Remember to discard any hard stems that you
around in their immaculate kitchens place a plate under each pot to catch the excess 0 Put the bundle of herbs, stem-side up, in a may find.
to harvest fresh herbs from cute little water. The excess water can be discarded to paper bag. Tie the end of the bag closed
countertop pots? Wonder no more, as you too prevent the soil from getting too moist and to making sure not to crush the herbs and poke a You can also leave some herbs whole,
can grow your own fresh herbs and spices to prevent root rot. few holes in the bag for ventilation. which helps in retaining their aromatic oils
help elevate your cooking to Masterchef levels Get good potting soil and fertilizer 0 Hang the bag by the stem end in a warm, better.
with this simple guide. Once you have decided on the pots, it’s time to well-ventilated room.
fill the pot with good potting soil. Generally, it’s 0 Your herbs should be dried and ready to Place the processed herbs into small,
There are generally two methods to plant good to follow the instructions which come store in about a week. airtight containers, and keep them in a cool,
herbs. In your backyard garden, or in pots. If with the herb package. Before planting the Oven-Dry Method dark place like a cupboard.
you live on landed property and plan to start herb, add water to the soil to moisten it all the 0 Place herb leaves or seeds on a baking sheet
your herb garden, it is advisable to make sure way through. that is one inch deep or less. Dried herbs will keep for between six and 12
there’s ample space. Start planting 0 Heat your oven to 100 degrees Fahrenheit months, but the sooner you use them, the
Dig some holes in the soil with a large enough and place your herbs in. more flavour they will have. You can also give
Just like any living thing, herbs need ample space for your herbs. To release the herbs from 0 Leave the oven door ajar so that the oven them to friends and family as gifts.
space to grow healthily and abundant. The first their starter containers, turn the container does not get too hot and excess moisture can
step is to make sure you have enough space to upside down and tap the bottom while gently escape. The global pandemic has forced a lot of
plant herbs. pulling the base of the plant. Once it’s out from 0 Dry the leaves for 30 minutes, then turn people who are stuck at home to pick up new
the container, place the herb into the hole and them over once. Continue drying for an hobbies and DIY projects with investing in a
You need approximately 1 to 4 feet in press soil around the stem to fill. Remember to additional 30 minutes. personal herb garden being one of the
diameter for each plant to grow, depending on water the plant immediately after planting. 0 To see if the herbs are dry, check if the leaves favourites.
the plant. Water just enough crumble easily. It is unavoidable for oven-
To check if the soil is dry, stick a finger into the dried herbs to cook a little, thus removing You can purchase everything you need
For starters, herbs such as Rosemary, Sage, soil. It’s best to water all the way through so the some potency and flavour, so you may need to online during this lockdown period and have it
Mints and Oregano need 3 to 4 feet of space. roots can grow all the way to the bottom of the use a little more in your cooking. delivered right to your doorstep.
pot. Overwatering is more likely to kill a plant 0 With both methods, you’ll know the herbs
Herbs like basil, thyme and tarragon require than when it’s underwatered. As such, are dry when leaves crumble easily.
2 feet of space. Smaller herbs such as parsley, remember to discard the excess water How to Store Dried Herbs
dill, chives and cilantro need about one foot of collected in the plate after watering the plants. Once you have dried your herbs, they are ready
space. Make sure it gets enough sunlight to be used right away, but more often than not,
Prepare the soil The herbs need at least 4 hours of sunlight per you’ll want to store the herbs for later.
Next, it’s time to prepare the soil. Use a garden day. To prevent leaf sunburns, do keep the
fork to loosen the compact soil to help aerate plants in an area with some shade. Either crumble the dried herbs with your
the soil. Loosening the compact soil will help fingers or crush them in a pestle and mortar.
water to drain later too. Once that’s done, layer
an inch of compost on the soil to act as fertiliser Harvesting right
for the plants and to prevent drainage To harvest the herbs grown in pots, remember
problems. to cut close to a leaf intersection so the herbs
Ready to plant can regrow quickly. For herbs such as basil,
The last step is to plant strong and healthy just pinch off the tops regularly. Don’t worry
herbs. The herbs should be watered when the too much about this because two stems will
soil becomes dry. A way to check for dry soil is grow in place to allow for a large, bushy plant!
to stick a finger into the soil. Be aware of
overwatering because it can lead to root rot Preserving Your Garden Herbs
which can kill the whole plant. If your herb plants are producing too quickly
Harvest correctly for the family to consume, you can try drying
It’s important to harvest the herbs correctly to them for storage. Air drying is an easy and
ensure bountiful growth. Cut off about 1/3 of inexpensive way to preserve excess herbs. This
the branches when the plant is at least 6 to 8 method can also help retain the essential oils
inches tall. For leaves, make sure to cut close to of the herbs, which helps to maintain their
the leaf intersection to ensure quick plant flavour. Alternatively, you can also dry herbs in
growth. a food dehydrator or in your oven.
Planting in containers
Get a large pot with drainage holes as some Air-Dry Method
herbs don’t do well in small pots. Getting a
large pot or container from the get-go is a safer 0 Gather 5-10 branches together and tie them
bet and gives plenty of room for your beautiful with string or a rubber band. The smaller the
herbs to flourish.

To save space and be economical, it’s smart
to combine several herbs that have the same
watering requirements in the same pot. It’s
advisable to get pots with drainage holes so
that excess water can flow through during
watering.

Buzz S5

theSun BUZZ ON FRIDAY | JULY 2, 2021

Top herbs to grow

ADDING herbs to your cooking is a delicious other meat dishes. A note to remember is that
and healthy way to add more flavour without oregano spreads easily like the sage too. As
adding calories. Here are some herbs you soon as the plant is several inches tall, you
should have in your own mini home garden. can snip sprigs of oregano to encourage
Basil bushier growth.
One of the many herbs you should grow is the Parsley
basil plant. Basils are used in a lot of dishes Parsley is a hit or miss for a lot of people.
especially in Italian dishes and it’s great in However, it’s a very common garnish and
pasta sauces, homemade pesto and pizzas. pairs well with meat and egg dishes, pasta
Removing basil leaves regularly help dishes and soups. Parsley grows well in moist
encourage the plant to start branching and soil so it’s good to regularly check the soil. To
result in a bushier plant. harvest, cut the leafy stems from the base.

If flowers are starting to grow on the basil, Don’t worry because the plant will grow
cut them off immediately to prevent the basil back bushier. If the parsley plant starts to
from changing the flavour. Upon harvesting attract pests like the whitefly, spray the
the basil leaves, keep the leaves in a jar filled undersides of the leaves with mild soapy
with a few inches of water with the cut side in water.
the water. Cilantro
Cilantro and parsley come from the same
Cover the lid of the jar and store it in a botanical family, and both herbs equally repel
refrigerator. This is to keep the leaves fresh people who find that it tastes like soap.
and it should stay fresh for about three to Fortunately, there are a few who do like the
fivedays. taste and the herb can be found in Mexican
Mint cuisines, salsa sauce and bean dips.
Mint is another great herb to have at home
and there’s a range to choose from such as When the cilantro plant flowers, you get
sweet mint, spearmint, peppermint and coriander seeds which can be used to season
chocolate mint. Mint is commonly used in and spice your cooking too. Ground coriander
beverages such as tea and can also be found (the plant’s seeds) is used as a spice in curry
in some salads or desserts. dishes and baked food.

However, do take note that all types of However, the cilantro plant also attracts
mint spread aggressively through pests such as the whitefly and aphids. To
underground runners so it’s best to plant this manage this, spray the underside of the leaves
herb in a pot with drainage holes. Just like with mild soapy water.
taking care of a basil plant, regularly pinching Thyme
off the stems help the mint herb to grow Thyme is another amazing herb to be added
abundantly. into marinades, slowly cooked soups and
Sage sauces. It gives off a nice, lemony zing.
Sage is another popular Italian seasoning
commonly used in soups, sauces and roasted Just like the other herbs, regularly pinching
vegetables. Native to the Mediterranean, sage the tip of the stems helps it to grow bushier.
is drought-tolerant which makes Thyme can be stored dried, refrigerated,
maintenance fairly easy. frozen or preserved in oil or vinegar.

Sage plants grow in a roundish bush shape Unlike the basil plant, the taste of the herb
so they grow best in roomier spaces. Unlike does not change even when it’s flowering.
basil and mint, you don’t need to prune sage However, it’s still prudent to clip off the
regularly. Sage can be harvested as needed. flowers to promote faster growth.
To harvest, clip just above the part of the plant Rosemary
where two leaves meet. Sage tastes best when Rosemary is native to the Mediterranean
it’s used fresh. region and grows really well in hot and humid
Oregano weather, making it one of the best herbs to
Oregano is used in a lot of delicious soups grow in Malaysia. Packed with iron, calcium,
and spaghetti sauces. It can also be cooked vitamin A, C, and B-6, rosemary can be used
with beans, lentils, roasted vegetables and for seasoning in a variety of dishes, such as
soups, casseroles, salads, steaks and stews.

THINKLOVEDRED

MEANS
OF YOUR

ON FRIDAY STOP! ONES
A Community Campaign
NOVEMBER 2J3U,L2Y0128, 2021
by

All-new Civic Hatchback launched
HONDA Motor Co Ltd held the world occupants’ spirits, dynamics which provide a Interior Honda Sensing
premiere of the all-new Civic high-quality driving experience and the By creating visually noiseless interior forms, the The all-new Civic Hatchback features the latest
Hatchback (pix) recently, where it is human-machine interface which can be used team strived to realise a cabin space which Honda Sensing** suite of advanced safety and
scheduled to go on sale later this year. intuitively. enables the occupants to enjoy exhilarating and driver-assistive technologies equipped with a
Honda is planning to make the official Packaging pleasant mobility experiences. front wide-view camera and a high-speed
announcement on this new model next month. Pleasing visibility for occupants was realised by image processing chip.
featuring a cabin space with an expansive Moreover, the team pursued the tactile
At the world premiere, which was held feeling and a wide horizontal viewing angle. quality of switches and the spatial design, Including the addition of traffic jam assist,
online, =the company unveiled the latest Civic which resonate with the users’ sensibilities and Honda Sensing functions were further
Hatchback’s exterior and interior designs and Moreover, by further emphasising the Civic’s created a cabin space that provides a pleasant advanced and enhanced compared to those
announced advancements made to the car’s conventional “low & wide” body, packaging view for all occupants. included for the previous-generation Civic.
dynamic performance. unique only to the new car was created Dynamics
achieving both high stability and dynamic Every detail of vehicle dynamics was further Moreover, to assist safer driving, the car’s
Honda also announced plans to begin sales performance. matured in order to offer customers high- adaptive driving beam*** provides excellent
of both the new Civic’s hybrid version, Exterior quality, sporty and new mobility experiences. long-range visibility at night without excessive
equipped with the e:HEV*, Honda’s original In addition to the pursuit of a cabin that makes glaring in the eyes of the drivers of oncoming
two-motor hybrid system and the all-new Civic driving easier and gives occupants a more The all-new Civic Hatchback enables the vehicles, was adopted for the first time for any
Type R, in 2022. expansive feeling, the exterior design team driver to feel a sense of oneness with the vehicle Honda model.
Grand concept – ‘Sokai’ (exhilarating) Civic strived to create a beautiful car with excellent by offering sporty and integrated steering that *e:HEV is a communication name for Honda’s
Honda strived to create a car that is both frontal visibility by designing the vehicle with makes the driver feel as if they are “having a two-motor hybrid system, which is positioned as
approachable and has a special presence, coupe-like and flowing proportions. conversation with the surface of the road”. Honda’s core electrification technology
making all occupants feel refreshed. **There is a limit to the capabilities (e.g.
For the sharp and sporty frontal look, thin The vehicle also offers engine sound that recognition capability and control capability) of
Delving deeply into the “human-centric” LED headlights and a honeycomb grille were feels consistent with the acceleration. individual functions of Honda Sensing. “Do not
approach, which is the basis of Honda’s adopted, while the low and wide rear was overestimate the capabilities of each Honda
automobile development, the company designed to emphasise the “excellent stance” of As for the transmission, there is a choice of a Sensing function and drive safely while paying
advanced the Civic Hatchback based on the vehicle. continuously variable transmission (CVT) or constant attention to your surroundings.”
occupant-centric ideas, such as designs that six-speed manual transmission, enabling ***Available only for the EX grade.
create an expansive feeling that lightens customers to experience a further advanced
“joy of driving.”

VW to stop selling ICE in Europe by 2035

VOLKSWAGEN on Sunday said it plans to stop Zellmer said that “as a mass-market
producing cars with internal combustion manufacturer, VW has to adapt to different
engines in Europe for its eponymous flagship speeds of transformation in different regions.
brand between 2033 and 2035, as the auto giant
accelerates its drive towards electric vehicles. “Our competitors who sell vehicles mainly in
Europe, for example, will certainly have to face a
Carmakers around the world have started far less complex transformation.”
setting timetables to phase out combustion
engines in the face of increasingly strict anti- Volkswagen subsidiary Audi announced last
pollution standards put in place to fight climate week it would launch only fully-electric vehicles
change, with Volkswagen’s electric push also from 2026 and halt manufacturing cars with
following lingering reputational harm from the internal combustion engines by 2033.
“dieselgate” scandal.
Sweden’s Volvo has said it plans to sell only
Klaus Zellmer, board member for sales and electric models from 2030.
marketing at Volkswagen’s passenger cars
brand, told Bavarian newspaper Muenchner The European Union will unveil tougher
Merkur that “we will make our entire fleet CO2 2030 CO2 emissions targets and regulatory
neutral by 2050 at the latest.” proposals on July 14, which are expected to
force carmakers to speed up the transition to
“In Europe, we will leave the combustion electric cars.
engine vehicle market between 2033 and 2035.”
Volkswagen’s electric push has additionally
He added that the change will take place “a been accelerated by its “dieselgate” scandal,
little later in the US and China”. which rocked Germany’s car industry and cost
the company dearly in both cash and
“In South America and Africa, due to the lack reputational harm.
of political framework conditions and
infrastructure, it will take a little longer.” Legal cases grind on over Volkswagen’s
admission in 2015 that it illegally fitted 11
Volkswagen’s flagship brand had already million diesel vehicles worldwide with software
said in March it was aiming for electric vehicles to make them appear less polluting. – ETX
to account for 70% of its European sales by 2030. Studio

Out & About theSun on friday 7
JULY 2, 2021
Latest MINI JCWs
are here

MINI Malaysia yesterday introduced
the new John Cooper Works 3 Door
and the new John Cooper Works
Countryman.
Refreshed classic motorsports look
The new JCW 3 Door (top four pix) now has electromechanical steering. also available via swiping motion on the touch Advanced assistance systems, connectivity
fresh design accents. Further elevating its new Adaptive suspension and sports brake display. Also utilising black panel technology is Driving assistant is standard in both MINIs; it
look are adaptive LED headlights that are now the new 5.0-inch digital instrument cluster comprises digital high-beam assistant, speed
enclosed in a new black inner housing – a system consisting of four-piston fixed calliper display that shows relevant driving information. limit information, person warning with light city
design that is seen also in the taillights. disc brakes on the front wheels and a single- 0 Another addition is the different interior braking function and approach control warning
piston floating-calliper disc brakes on the rear “Colour Worlds” to set the mood of the drive with light city braking function.
Befitting its motorsport identity, there are wheels are also fitted. and can be synchronised with the driving
enlarged cooling air openings. Contemporary infotainment offerings modes. Both models also arrive with the parking
Features inside the new JCW 3 Door include a assistant – a first for the new JCW 3 Door –
Model-specific side scuttles now decorate new steering wheel with horizontal spokes and For the new JCW Countryman, the interior coupled with the lane departure warning.
the front side panels and the rear apron – the a new design, buttons integrated on an even has also been modernised with new accents,
latter which also features a distinctive diffuser to surface with Piano Black finish, along with the combining its sports car flair with a The operating system of the new MINI
optimise airflow in the rear area of the John Cooper Works logo on the lower spoke. contemporary, premium ambience. models is now more advanced than ever before,
underbody. thanks to an updated graphics display and new
Lined with the new MINI Yours aluminium The 5.0-inch digital instrument cluster connectivity features.
The new JCW Countryman (bottom pix) has interior Surface, the cockpit presents a display behind the steering wheel is now
also received a refined exterior and modern horizontal appearance stretched through standard, while the 8.8-inch colour display with The screen display has been given a new
design accents, including a new radiator grille enlarged decor parts. Finishing touches to the touchscreen function located on the modern look, while options for selecting and
design. overall interior look include the introduction of characteristic central instrument panel has controlling vehicle functions, the audio system,
new decor designs and air vents, for a more been updated with a bezel and touch-sensitive hands-free telephone system, navigation, and
Piano Black exterior trims adorn both new modern ambience. control panels in high-gloss Piano Black. applications have also been expanded.
MINIs, with door handles, the MINI logo and
model badges receiving a high-gloss black Other features include: Also, there is a new steering wheel design. Advanced connectivity features, audio and
treatment. 0 Redesigned centre instrument with an 8.8- For both new MINIs, other premium navigation features are also now available as
inch touch display in black panel design, which equipment available include Dinamica leather standard on the new models.
New adaptive LED headlamps with variable houses a new operating system with a John Cooper Works sport seats, head-up
light distribution and matrix function for the modernised and more intuitive graphic display display, Comfort Access system, driving modes, These include the digital instrument cluster,
high beam lights also come standard for both for the selection and control of vehicle a 12-speaker Harman Kardon sound system teleservices, MINI Online, intelligent
new models. functions, audio programme, navigation, and panoramic sunroof. emergency call, remote services, telephony with
JCW racing heritage communication and apps Exclusively for the JCW Countryman is the wireless charging, concierge services, navigation
The JCW 3 Door is powered by a 2.0-litre four- 0 For the first time, the Live Widget feature is MINI Yours illuminated interior surface in and Apple CarPlay preparation.
cylinder turbo engine, developed with famed Piano Black.
MINI tuner John Cooper Works. For greater connectivity, the new MINI App
can be downloaded from the Google Play Store
Complemented by an eight-speed and Apple App Store.
Steptronic sport transmission, the new MINI
delivers up to 231hp and 320Nm of torque, Both new MINIs come in exterior colour
capable of bringing it from a standstill to offerings of the exclusive Rebel Green, Midnight
100km/h in just 6.1 seconds. Top speed is Black and White Silver.
246km/h.
All colour offerings are accompanied by roof
Developed in cooperation with specialist colour in a striking Red.
manufacturer Brembo, the sports brake system
in the new JCW 3 Door consists of four-piston The new MINIs are already available at all
calliper brakes with internally ventilated discs authorised MINI dealerships nationwide.
and red brake callipers bearing the John Cooper
Works logo. However, in accordance with the latest
Movement Control Order, dealerships will be
MINI claims that its agile handling fit for closed for physical viewing and customers are
both the racetrack and winding city traffic is encouraged to view them online via the
provided by the new improved adaptive www.mini.my website.
suspension set up with frequency selective
dampening technology, “ensuring an optimised They are also available for online booking via
balance between sportiness and ride comfort”. the MINI Online Shop platform at
https://www.mini.my/minionlineshop.
Meanwhile, the new JCW Countryman
boasts the most powerful engine ever used in a With four unlimited mileage warranty with
MINI, based on the same 2.0-litre four-cylinder free scheduled service, the recommended retail
turbo engine, along with an independent prices with sales and services tax exemption (on
cooling system. the road, without insurance) for both MINIs are:
0 New John Cooper Works 3 Door:
This combination allows an impressive RM311,259.49
maximum output of 306hp and 450Nm of 0 New John Cooper Works Countryman:
torque. RM383,463.07.

Paired with the intelligently-controlled ALL4
all-wheel-drive and eight-speed Steptronic
Sport transmission, the new JCW Countryman
goes from 0 to 100km/h in just 5.1 seconds. Top
speed is 250km/h.

For its “high steering precision and
handling”, the new JCW Countryman has been
engineered with a high-rigidity chassis,
suspension and damping features refined with
racing expertise, dynamic stability control and

8 theSun on friday Out & About
JULY 2, 2021
New technical updates
for 320i Sport
BMW Malaysia yesterday introduced the latest received updates, with the former now The new 320i Sport also features a new
Peugeot launch generation of the new 320i Sport, now up-to- equipped with a new 10.25-inch display tachometer with counter-clockwise RPM
Lifestyle date with new BMW Live Cockpit Professional featuring a resolution of 1920x720 – a step up movement, along with the fuel level, speed and
collection with infotainment system and the latest BMW from the previous 1280x480 on an 8.8-inch engine temperature presented in tube rings.
new identity Operating System 7.0, to provide users a fast display.
overview of important information on their Configurable functions and widgets include
PEUGEOT has launched a new range everyday drive with enhanced convenience and The instrument display cluster, on the other the sports scoreboards, driving data, fuel
of clothing for its fans, friends and accessibility. hand, features a new large 12.3-inch display, a consumption and efficiency, as well as the G-
sales teams: T-shirts, polo shirts, shirts, significant increase from the previous 5.1-inch. Force meter and radio or media playback.
pullovers, sweatshirts, body warmers, The upgraded information cluster can now
windbreakers, pens, notebooks, mugs be configured more individually than ever The focused and fully-configurable display The new 320i Sport continues to offer
and umbrellas. before, offering owners the luxury of also features a minimalistic, uniform segment-leading innovation such as the
personalisation in their preferred BMW appearance that offers more space in the centre reversing assistant for hands free, semi-
The designers at Peugeot’s design vehicles. for navigation and other important information autonomous convenience when reversing in
lab have infused a modern, technical prioritised by the driver. narrow streets, along with the rear view camera
and high quality design into each The new state-of-the-art BMW Live Cockpit that is fitted as standard – powered by the latest
piece of this collection, bearing the Professional has been designed with a drive- The selected Driver Experience modes in BMW Operating System 7.0.
new Peugeot logo or the Brand Icon, focused orientation. The upgraded information Sport, Comfort and Eco Pro are also displayed
portraying the coat of arms. cluster that consists of the central information with a consistent colour and visual treatment Its retail price with extended warranty and
display and instrument display cluster also across the instrument cluster and centre service package, without SST (on the road,
This new lifestyle range is display. without insurance) is RM243,883.65.
enhancing Peugeot’s new identity and
asserting its move upmarket. It is
already available on the online shop
https://boutique.peugeot.com.

“Lion lovers, women and men alike,
will be able to wear the modern and
comfortable new clothing line, in any
season,” says the company, adding that
most models/items are available in
different colours.

The designers have meticulously
worked on the technicality of each
garment or accessory. The quilted
patterns of the bodywarmer are
exclusive. Its zips, like the one on the
polo, are waterproof. The heat-welded
seams of the windbreaker provide
optimal insulation. The mugs have a
unique geometric handle. The
umbrellas have an ergonomic handle
for perfect grip.

The choice of materials for certain
garments and accessories is in line
with the desire to promote sustainable
development and well-being. The
recycled leather of the wallets and
pouches reuses existing materials,
while the shirt is made of organic
cotton.

Ducati anytime, everywhere

‘MYDUCATI’ is a personal area that gives Ducati will keep you up-to-date on the Dealer
you quick access to the Ducati world and latest Ducati developments and you will With the MyDucati App you can find the
it is also available in an app version so be able to share your passion with the dealer closest to your location and how to
that you can always have all the services Ducati Club community and enjoy the get there. You can check out the services
designed for you at your fingertips. benefits offered exclusively to those offered and book a test ride with just a
Ducatistis! click.
Ducati Malaysia says: “Discover all the Profile Garage
benefits of the MyDucati App and Make sure your profile information is With the MyDucati App you can
download it now via the Apple app store always up to date to get the most out of configure the bike of your dreams and
or Google Play to enjoy a customised the MyDucati App. manage the bikes you own in your digital
experience wherever you are.” garage. You can review your maintenance
News & club “The more Ducati learns about you, schedule and stay up-to-date on
The MyDucati App offers you special the better the experience it can offer you,” campaigns and available updates.
content and exclusive previews. says Ducati Malaysia.

Profile Garage News & club Dealer

9theSUN ON FRIDAY | JULY 2, 2021

Trinity lines up three BRIEFS LBS SECURES RM274M
launches within a year BOOKINGS DURING
FULL LOCKDOWN
o Trinity Wellnessa, Trinity Enlivea and serviced apartments in
Kinrara will have combined GDV of RM1.12 billion PETALING JAYA: LBS Bina Group
Bhd has secured RM274 million
█ BY JUNE MOH sensor to call for the lift without having to touch Seri Kembangan, Bukit Jalil, and Sungai Besi. worth of bookings from June 1 to
[email protected] the button, smart lockers for ease of contactless All of these projects have an occupancy rate of 28, 2021 despite the full
PETALING JAYA: Trinity Group Sdn Bhd will delivery, and smart visitor management system between 85% and 95%. movement control order and as
launch three property projects with a combined that lets residents register their guests via of June 28, 2021, garnered RM601
gross development value (GDV) of RM1.12 personal smart devices,” Neoh said. According to Neoh, the group has 48.1 acres million in sales with bookings in
billion within a year, namely, Trinity Wellnessa of undeveloped landbank with a GDV of the pipeline of RM665.9 million.
and Trinity Enlivea in Ampang, and serviced He added that its architectural design allows RM5.04 billion and 32.5 acres of developed LBS continues to strengthen its
apartments in Kinrara, Puchong, against the for maximum natural lighting and ventilation. landbank with a GDV of RM1.67 billion. The mainstream platforms while
backdrop of the Covid-19 pandemic. group targets RM1 billion total sales for its reaching out via online platforms
There will be 2.1 acres of podium space for financial year ending March 31, 2022. including virtual showrooms,
Trinity group founder and managing 30 indoor facilities such as floating cinema, websites, email marketing, as well
director Datuk Neoh Soo Keat (pix) is confident spaces that promote productivity with a co- Neoh said that RM400 million of its unbilled as social media. In June, LBS
that home buying will soar next year, which will working lounge with Nepresso to meet the sales are for its properties under construction, introduced its #DudukRumah
fuel a residential housing boom in 2022 and increasing demands of homeowners who need Trinity Pentamont and Trinity Lemanja, with Deals 3.0 marketing campaign.
2023. to work from home. unbilled sales at RM300 million and RM100
million respectively. Unsold units number REGISTER FOR VACCINE,
Based on the group’s market research, he Neoh said 40% of the 2.1 acres is dedicated about 50. GET ONE-MONTH
said, the pandemic has shifted consumer for lush landscaping and an urban farm FREE ROOM RENTAL
behaviour, and home buyers’ needs and measuring 0.2 acres. Trinity Group aims to strengthen its
preferences have changed, thus, the group has exposure in the key states of Selangor and Johor KUALA LUMPUR: New tenants of
been keeping up with the changing needs of the “Besides flowers and shrubs, there will be in the next five years. The landbank expansion iBilik by Homevest Living and
buyers too. fruits and vegetables at the designated space is in line with its goal of continuously meeting GFG Group who have registered
and cash crops such as pandan leaf, papaya the firm demand for affordably priced for the National Covid-19
“For us to stay ahead of the game, our trees, and lemongrass will be part of the properties (starting price under RM650,000) Immunisation Programme are
strategy is to move beyond pricing and to landscaping,” he said. across these key market centres. eligible for a one-month free
design products that are relevant to people’s room rental in both companies’
lives. ‘Disruptive’ is the word to describe 2020, Located on a 3.9-acre site, Trinity Wellnessa “Register for Vaccine, Get 1 Month
the pandemic has forced us to focus on family has a GDV of RM318 million. It is freehold and Free Room Rental Subsidies”
wellbeing. We believe the next trend in property has a total of 463 units. According to Neoh, it is campaign. A total of 7,600 rooms
is family wellness. Wellness will be a critical low density with 10 units per floor and three lifts are being offered. Potential
criterion of home buyers,” Neoh told Property per block, and is set to be completed in 2025. tenants need to rent and show
Take. their Covid-19 vaccine registration
The units in the two 30-storey towers will proof via MySejahtera during the
The group will launch Trinity Wellnessa in have three or four bedrooms and two or three campaign period which runs until
Beverly Heights, Ampang North, in July. Neoh bathrooms and built-ups of 1,008 and 1,286 sq July 31. – Bernama
said it will be Malaysia’s first condominium ft, with the latter being dual-key units. There
with a triple protection system such as will also be an exclusive 2,585 sq ft 5+1- RELOCATION ALLOWED
contactless technology, wellness-oriented bedroom, 5+1-bathroom penthouse. Selling UNDER NATIONAL
design, and wellness-centric facilities. prices start from RM563,888 (about RM550 RECOVERY PLAN PHASE 1
psf ).
“The name ‘Wellnessa’ is a promise from us PUTRAJAYA: Relocation to strata
to introduce a new age of wellness-oriented Neoh hopes to deliver units that are large and landed properties is allowed
living. The contactless technology starts from enough for young and multigeneration families during phase one of movement
the condominium’s entrance to lift lobby with as people look for space where they can work, control under the National
the use of facial recognition sensor, proximity study, and have fun activities with family under Recovery Plan, effective
one roof. immediately, the Ministry of
Housing and Local Government
Established in 2004, Trinity Group has said yesterday. Property owners
delivered five residential projects – in Puchong, must obtain police permission for
themselves as well as the mover
company involved, and the
applicant must specify the date
and time of the relocation, as well
as information related to the
movers, to the strata management.
– Bernama

Malaysian Institute of Estate Jiankun to expand landbank in
Agents gets new president anticipation of demand rebound

PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian Finance (MOF), and MIEA hopes PETALING JAYA: Jiankun “We strongly believe demand
Institute of Estate Agents (MIEA) that MOF will recognise their International Bhd aims to increase will be stimulated again as the
has named Chan Ai Cheng (pix) contribution to the economy its landbank to around 50 acres by pandemic delivered severe impact
as its president who will helm and lend its support to the the end of 2021 in anticipation of a on the property sector, and this
MIEA for the 2021-2023 term. sector. rebound in property demand. puts us in a good position to
She took office together with leverage and negotiate to acquire
17 other board of directors Ai Cheng has also set her Meanwhile, its ongoing project, lands at attractive prices,” he said.
yesterday, six of whom chair the sights on helping to grow Amani Residences (pix) at Bandar
state branches. MIEA’s membership and to Puteri, Puchong, is 95% completed In December 2020, the group
enhance professionalism and and the group expects the units to proposed to acquire a piece of
Ai Cheng is the first second- integrity among its members. be handed over to buyers by the leasehold land in Melaka Tengah
generation president, following fourth quarter of 2021. With a sales District, Malacca, to build serviced
in the footsteps of her father Meanwhile, there is concern rate of 95%, it will contribute apartments and a 28-storey hotel.
(past president Charlie Chan), over getting recruits into the positively to the group’s financial This marked the group’s strategy to
who was president from 1995 profession as the lockdown is performance in FY2021. expand its property development
to 1997. hampering them from attending outside the Klang Valley.
classes for the entry Negotiators Jiankun said the escalation of
Ai Cheng said continuity in Certification Course (NCC). At the construction progress of Amani Additionally, the group
leadership is important for MIEA present the Board of Valuers, Residences from 65% to 95% over announced its plan to diversify
to be relevant and progressive. Appraisers, Estate Agents & the last six months was mainly into the land reclamation business
Her main objective is to help Property Managers Malaysia only driven by the appointment in in the first quarter of 2021,
members through the Covid allows classes via physical means. December 2020 of Edwin Silvester following the acquisition of Embon
pandemic and she hopes that MIEA proposes that NCC classes be Das as executive director and CEO. Global Venture Sdn Bhd. This
the government will give due allowed to be conducted online. acquisition provides Jiankun with
recognition to the profession. “This was despite the strict immediate access to reclamation
standard operating procedure that concession rights to an area
The real estate industry the group adopted amidst the spanning 30 acres in Malacca.
predominantly engages its resurgence of Covid-19 cases and
salespeople on a contract basis the reintroduction of a more “In order to create a recurring
whereby fees are earned when stringent movement control order in income stream to the group, we
a successful transaction takes the country,” it said in a statement. have also acquired Limpah Restu
place. With movements stalled, Development Sdn Bhd for RM10
some 23,000 active real estate Edwin said the group is set to million in March 2021. This
practitioners are hard pressed benefit from the impact of the acquisition comes with the
to carry out any transaction, national vaccination programme alienation of 16 acres of leasehold
thus affecting their income. coupled with the government’s land in Perak, for the business of
Practitioners are registered measures, such as the Home private cemetery, crematorium
under ACT 242 and are under Ownership Campaign, and the and columbarium,” it said.
the purview of the Ministry of current low interest rates.

S E C U R I T I E S S D N. B H D. SunBIZ FRIDAY
JULY 2, 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
1/07/2021 Fax: 03-7784 4424

Participation Bought Sold Net Email: [email protected]
RM m
% RM m RM m

46.3 Institutions 1633.1 1574.6 58.5

38.6 Retail 1349.5 1325.9 23.6

15.1 Foreign 484.7 566.8 -82.1 6.27 166.15 2.42 84.49 41.52 14.62 47.45

100.0 3467.3 3467.3 0 1.60

Preliminary stats (excluding trade amendments). For final data, please refer to www.bursamalaysia.com KLCI STI HANG SENG SCI NIKKEI TSEC KOSPI S&P/ASX200
Source: Bursa Malaysia 1,534.23 3,124.19 28,827.95 3,588.78 28,707.04 17,713.94 3,282.06 7,265.57

KL MARKET SUMMARY Rush for digital July 1, 2021
July 1, 2021 bank licence
solutions to our targeted customer base,“
INDICES 11,173.35 CHANGE +17.13 added Chew.
FBMEMAS
FBMKLCI 1,534.23 +1.60 Trustgate’s digital technologies will be
CONSUMER PRODUCTS 594.42 +1.34 pivotal in meeting the cybersecurity
INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTS 186.60 +0.30 standards in the digital era to effectively
CONSTRUCTION 166.09 -1.57 combat hacking and online frauds. These
FINANCIAL SERVICES 15,130.13 +31.82 technologies include digital ID, e-KYC,
ENERGY 808.36 +18.96 digital onboarding, digital signing and
TELECOMMUNICATIONS 697.21 +8.22 oMPay, PUC, BigPay and iFast among the big multi-factor authentication capabilities.
HEALTH CARE 2,870.70 -14.12 players aiming for a slice of the ‘fintech’ pie
TRANSPORTATION 869.48 +2.01 Crescent Capital, Mirzan Mahathir’s
PROPERTY 702.20 +2.31 flagship investment and consulting company,
PLANTATION 6,445.09 +43.61 brings with it opportunities to expand MPay’s
FBMSHA 12,186.80 +8.52 PETALING JAYA: More contenders vying wallet, loyalty, financing and payment reach and infrastructure. Mirzan sits on the
FBMACE 7,106.50 +157.15 for a digital bank licence in Malaysia, solutions which will form a natural board of Trustgate and Petron Corp (the
TECHNOLOGY 79.08 +0.30 including Managepay Systems Bhd (MPay), complement to the digital bank and enable Philippines) and his experience in capital
PUC Bhd, AirAsia Group Bhd-linked BigPay it to drive innovation and boost digital market activities will play a significant role in
TURNOVER VALUE and iFast Corp Ltd, have submitted their transformation through its service offerings. rolling out bite sized investment
7.180 BIL RM3.467 BIL bids to Bank Negara Malaysia as opportunities for the underserved segments.
applications closed on Wednesday. Both the participating states’
5 MOST ACTIVES populations include significant proportions Coaching and business training provider
July 1, 2021 With its experience of launching various within the B40 segment which will be RichWorks International founded by Datuk
regulated financial products, BigPay Capital targeted as the initial customer base. In Wira Azizan Osman is a household name for
STOCK VOL CLSG (sen) +/– (sen) Sdn Bhd, a wholly owned subsidiary of Big addition, the numerous un-served and MSME entrepreneurs with his training and
SERBADK 1,744,645,300 38.0 +5.0 Pay Pte Ltd being a subsidiary of AirAsia under-served MSMEs within these two mentoring programmes.
SCIB-WB 452,118,000 25.5 +11.5 Group Bhd, wants to further its reach. states will be given access to a user friendly,
SERBADK-WA 411,363,100 9.5 +1.5 mobile-based digital banking network Singapore-listed wealth management
KPOWER 350,808,300 90.5 +19.0 BigPay has put together a consortium of including micro-financing and other fintech platform iFast Corp also led a
SCIB 335,723,000 75.0 +23.5 partners to support its application: financial services. consortium that builds on the strengths of
Malaysian Industrial Development Finance both local companies in Malaysia as well as
5 TOP GAINERS Bhd, Ikhlas Capital and a foreign MPay’s application is supported by three international players. iFast Corp will own a
July 1, 2021 conglomerate with fintech expertise. Each local partners Trustgate Bhd, Crescent 40% stake in the digital bank if the application
of the consortium partners is contributing Capital Sdn Bhd and RichWorks is successful. The beneficial equity ownership
STOCK VOL CLSG (RM) +/– RM something unique for the success of BigPay International Sdn Bhd. of the consortium will be 57% Malaysian.
GENETEC 3,171,000 10.02 1.52 Bank. In addition to the consortium
MPI 79,300 39.46 0.66 partners, BigPay is part of the AirAsia Group “These partners will each bring a unique The Malaysian consortium partners are
DLADY 33.96 0.36 and has access to a broad ecosystem that value proposition to complement our Koperasi Angkatan Tentera Malaysia Bhd,
KESM 5,900 10.96 0.30 includes e-commerce merchants and proposed digital banking services to the THZ Alliance Sdn Bhd, and Lee Thiam Wah,
PANAMY 300 32.98 0.30 consumers, insurance and telecoms. undeserved and inadequately served founder and major shareholder of 99 Speed
1,100 MSMEs and the communities they serve,“ Mart Sdn Bhd. The experience and market
Over the past four years, BigPay has said MPay founder and group managing reach of these consortium partners will enable
5 TOP LOSERS added a number of regulated financial director Datuk Chew Chee Seng. iFast Bank to better address the needs of the
July 1, 2021 products to its offerings – from e-money and underserved market, thereby improving
international remittance to micro insurance MPay is positive about the submission financial inclusion and growth in Malaysia.
STOCK VOL CLSG (RM) +/– RM and budgeting – with the goal of being a and partnerships formed. All three partners
HEIM 8,500 23.26 0.34 one-stop solution for Malaysians’ financial are bumiputera-controlled entities and have Internationally, the iFast Bank
KLK-C8 50,000 0.06 0.28 needs. In the coming months, BigPay will expressed their interest to invest up to 45% in consortium comprises Yillion Fintech Pte
HARTA 3,562,500 7.14 0.21 launch a number of new services including aggregate in the equity of MPay’s wholly Ltd which provides the core digital banking
CARLSBG 16,900 22.08 0.12 responsible credit, micro savings and an owned subsidiary ManagePay Services Sdn technology and capabilities for Yillion Bank.
TECGUAN 205,600 1.23 0.12 offering for micro, small and medium Bhd in the event the application is successful Yillion Bank is one of the four digital banks in
enterprises (MSMEs) and freelancers. and subject to regulatory’s prior approval. China founded by Zonfar Financial Holding
EXCHANGE RATES JULY 1, 2021 and Hong Kong-listed Meituan Dianping.
“BigPay Bank will allow us to execute MPay’s brand promise is an end-to-end
Foreign currency Bank sell Bank buy Bank buy deeper on our mission to build a connected fintech and e-commerce ecosystem that offers “Our consortium partners are excited with
financial future for Malaysian consumers MSMEs and corporates the fundamental the possibility of getting a digital bank licence
1 US DOLLAR TT/OD TT OD and entrepreneurs. If we’re given the building blocks to do business in the digital in Malaysia, which will allow us to tap into the
1 AUSTRALIAN DOLLAR 4.2160 4.0910 4.0810 licence, we’ll be able to reach more economy. Aptly named the Digital Economy exciting digital banking opportunities in
1 BRUNEI DOLLAR 3.1760 3.0510 3.0350 Malaysians with a wider range of services,” Connected Community ecosystem, it Malaysia as well as to develop a truly-global
1 CANADIAN DOLLAR 3.1320 3.0410 3.0330 said BigPay CEO & founder Salim Dhanani. currently operates businesses in e-money and digital banking and fintech business model,”
1 EURO 3.3970 3.3070 3.2950 Mastercard prepaid card issuance including said iFast Corp chairman and CEO Lim
1 NEWZEALAND DOLLAR 5.0040 4.8420 4.8220 Next is a PUC-led consortium with two white-label services, omni-channel e- Chung Chun, a Malaysian.
1 SINGAPORE DOLLAR 2.9580 2.8500 2.8340 state governments and a conglomerate, payment, P2P transfers, e-commerce
1 STERLING POUND 3.1320 3.0410 3.0330 making it a wholly Malaysian consortium. platform and solutions, P2P financing and Zooming in on the local opportunities,
1 SWISS FRANC 5.8350 5.6510 5.6310 The consortium members recognise the small ticket sized direct lending. Lim shared how iFast Bank can create
100 UAE DIRHAM 4.5400 4.4360 4.4210 gap presented by the under-served positive change for the unserved and
100 BANGLADESHTAKA 116.1200 110.1200 109.9200 segments which include MSMEs and B40 “A digital bank licence will allow us to underserved market segments such as the
100 CHINESE RENMINBI 5.0680 4.7380 4.5380 segment consumers. consolidate our multi-service under a B40 population in Malaysia.
100 HONGKONG DOLLAR 65.3000 62.7000 multi-license ecosystem into a solution
100 INDIAN RUPEE 54.8700 52.1500 N/A PUC’s digital ecosystem, Presto, orientated, integrated bank that leverages “With the synergistic capabilities within
100 INDONESIAN RUPIAH 5.7600 5.4100 51.9500 encompasses e-commerce, logistics, e- technology to offer a complete suite of our consortium, the solutions offered for the
100 JAPANESE YEN 0.0301 0.0272 5.2100 B40 are ones that will provide immediate
100 NEWTAIWAN DOLLAR 3.7980 3.6790 0.0222 benefits and results – such as free life
100 PAKISTAN RUPEE 16.2000 3.6690 insurance, interest-free loans for daily
100 PHILIPPINE PESO 2.7200 N/A necessities, and micro investments and
100 QATAR RIYAL 8.7600 2.5400 N/A insurance. iFast Bank is ready to serve the
100 SAUDI RIYAL 115.1400 8.2500 2.3400 B40 segment for these purposes,” said Lim.
100THAI BAHT 113.6500 109.3000 8.0500
13.7400 107.8900 109.1000 Manufacturing loses steam on Covid-19 restrictions
12.1900 107.6900
11.7900 PETALING JAYA: Malaysian manufacturing pointed to a sharp decline in business Foreign demand for Malaysian
sector lost considerable momentum at the conditions in the sector. manufactured goods was subdued, though the
Source: Malayan Banking Berhad/Bernama end of Q2’21, as rising Covid-19 infections led pace of reduction in export sales was softer
to a return to stricter containment measure Based on the historical relationship than that seen in total new orders. It also found
leading to the highest moderation of output between official statistics and the index, the the lower production requirements due to
and incoming orders since the pandemic’s latest reading is representative of a renewed Covid-19 restrictions resulting in a sharp
initial outbreak in April 2020, according to the downturn in industrial production and GDP, moderation in purchasing activity, with buying
IHS Markit Malaysia Manufacturing following a gradual recovery from earlier waves falling to an extent not seen since April 2020.
Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI). of infections, highlighting the pandemic as the
greatest downside risk to the Malaysian The survey highlighted that Malaysian
It noted that businesses widely cited the economy. manufacturers expressed pessimism regarding
restrictions had significantly disrupted the year-ahead outlook for the first time since
demand and manufacturers signalled a The survey noted both production and new March 2020, with the degree of sentiment was
pessimistic outlook for output in the year order volumes weakened in June as the rates of the lowest on record as firms were concerned
ahead (for only the fourth time in the survey’s deterioration were the most marked – since the about the duration of the pandemic and scope
history), amid concerns about the duration of peak rates of decline seen last April. It said for further virus waves to disrupt demand and
the pandemic. firms commonly attributed the weakness to supply. That said, firms expressed hope that
the stricter containment measures which demand would recover once the pandemic
For June, IHS’ PMI fell sharply to 39.9 from dampened demand in both domestic and was brought under control.
51.3 registered in the previous month, which external markets.

11theSUN ON FRIDAY | JULY 2, 2021
SUNBIZ

Digital Nasional partners with Ericsson for 5G rollout

PETALING JAYA: Digital Nasional and springboard for the country’s network will be undertaken by management of the entire network access and transport network,
Bhd is partnering Ericsson (Malaysia) vision of a connected future and Ericsson at a total cost of RM11 and Digital Nasional will securitise operation and business support
Sdn Bhd to accelerate the regional leader in the digital economy. billion, including tower rental and future cashflows from its wholesale systems and managed services.
deployment of 5G network and fibre leasing, of which more than 60% business via sukuk programmes to
ecosystem in Malaysia, following the Furthermore, the network and is expected to benefit bumiputra and finance the network’s operating In addition, the company will
conclusion of a rigorous tender technology rollout is expected to be a other Malaysian contractors over the expenditure and repay vendor undertake capacity building and
exercise initiated in March. catalyst for investments in related next 10 years. financing arrangements. innovation programmes to support
products and services as well as the local vendor development &
As one of the pillars of the nation’s projected creation of 100,000 jobs. The communications services Ericsson will undertake the design participation, and boost 5G adoption.
digital transformation plan, MyDigital, provider has undertaken to arrange and development of the end-to-end It will also develop use cases to
the 5G network will serve as backbone Digital Nasional disclosed that the financing for the supply, delivery, and 5G network comprising core, radio accelerate industry participation.
design and build of the national 5G

Vivocom, US-based Strattner BRIEFS SECURITIES COMMISSION
ink RM1.45b investment deal UNVEILS AMENDMENTS
TO CAPITAL MARKET LAWS
oAmerican groupinHOAtoacquireupto9%of capital allocation as an investment in Vivocom
Malaysian firm’s issued share capital over 18 months as well as a starting point for a long-term PETALING JAYA: The Securities
strategic partnership to advance the group’s Commission Malaysia (SC) has
PETALING JAYA: Vivocom International has committed to purchase Vivocom’s shares growth via mergers & acquisition (M&A) announced amendments to the Capital
Holdings Bhd has entered into a heads of of not more than 9% of the issued share capital activities and to fund its projects in construction, Markets and Services Act 2007 (CMSA),
agreement (HOA) with US-based global of the company from time to time, for a period property development and minerals trading. which came into force yesterday. The
alternative investment group Strattner of 18 months. amendments widen the categories of
Alternative Credit Fund LP for the latter’s Vivocom CEO Datuk Seri Chia Kok Teong sophisticated investors to include,
US$350 million (RM1.45 billion) investment in In return, Vivocom will have the right, to said he is proud of and humbled by the vote of among others, individuals with
the Malaysian company. draw down capital as required. The company confidence shown by Strattners in Vivocom by investments of RM1 million in capital
will control the timing and amount of capital their commitment to invest in the company for market products, either on their own or
Strattner is registered with the Financial drawn down under this agreement. This the long term. through joint accounts with their
Industry Regulatory Authority and the US method of fundraising provides management spouse; CEOs and directors of licensed
Securities and Exchange Commission with a with a flexible financing tool and allows “The timing is perfect as we seek to grow via or registered persons under the CMSA;
presence in the US, Europe and Asia. Vivocom the ability to deploy cash on a need the M&A route and acquire companies with and corporations that manage funds of
basis only as opportunities arise. game-changing and disruptive strategies in their related companies with assets of
A filing with Bursa Malaysia showed that the their businesses,” he said in a statement. more than RM10 million. In addition,
salient terms of the HOA entail that Strattner In a joint statement, the two parties view the the amendments enable Bursa Malaysia
Chia elaborated that the proceeds raised to undertake the registration of ACE
from this investment deal will also be used as Market prospectuses effective Jan 1,
working capital for the recently-ventured sand 2022. Schedule 5 of the CMSA, which
and minerals trading business. sets out the type of corporate proposals
that do not require the SC’s approval,
National 4IR Policy to transform Malaysia has also been amended.
into tech-driven, high-income nation
LEE KIM YEW INTRODUCES
KUALA LUMPUR: The National Fourth the people with knowledge and skillsets related to The Ministry of BLOCKCHAIN-BASED GOLDEN
Industrial Revolution Policy (National 4IR 4IR, shape the country with connectivity through Science, Technology HORSE INVESTMENT BANK
Policy) launched yesterday is set to transform digital infrastructure development, provide and Innovation is
Malaysia into a high-income nation driven by appropriate and flexible rules in line with developing the PETALING JAYA: Country Heights
the most advanced 4IR technology and technology change, and expedite innovation and roadmap for, among Holdings Bhd founder Tan Sri Lee Kim
digitalisation. adaptation of 4IR technology. others, electrical and Yew has established the Golden Horse
electronics, vaccine, Investment Bank Ltd, a Labuan Financial
Minister in the Prime Minister’s The policy will also be formulated based on blockchain, Services Authority-approved investment
Department (Economy) Datuk Seri Mustapa humanity so that technology would be hydrogen economy, bank using blockchain technology,
Mohamed said through the policy, the beneficial without “sacrificing” human, social nano technology, AI, artificial intelligence (AI), big data and
Malaysia Well-being Index (MyWI) is targeted and culture values robotics, and other technologies to build
to increase to 136.5 in 2030 compared with advanced materials. comprehensive digital financial tools.
124.4 in 2018. Khairy said compared with the previous – BERNAMAPIX The investment bank will set up the
revolution, 4IR is not only about machine, country remains competitive. “Golden Horse Blockchain Research
He said Malaysia has also targeted to technology and system, but covers a Towards this end, he said the government Institute” in China’s Hainan Blockchain
position itself among the top 20 ranking in the combination of physical, digital and biology has identified five core technologies to develop Software Eco-Park for greater
Global Innovation Index in 2030 as well as which opens up opportunities for the local capabilities, namely AI, Internet of cooperation with China through digital
achieve a 30% increase in productivity government, businesses and people to benefit Things, blockchain and distributed ledger currencies. The first 100 million
encompassing all sectors, from the level in 2020. from technological advancement to ensure the technology, advanced materials supported by invested with the bank will enjoy
cloud computing, and Big Data Analytics. capital guarantee.
“Through the National 4IR Policy, the people, In efforts to ensure the technology
businesses and government are able to capitalise development functions as an enabler for the SAMAIDEN ACCEPTS
on the growth opportunities and address the transformation of 4IR, Khairy said the Ministry RM46.4M CONTRACT
prevailing risks from 4IR,” he said in his speech of Science, Technology and Innovation is in the
during the virtual launch of the National 4IR process of developing the roadmap for PETALING JAYA: Samaiden Group Bhd’s
Policy, together with Minister of Science, electrical and electronics, vaccine, blockchain, wholly owned subsidiary Samaiden Sdn
Technology and Innovation Khairy Jamaluddin. hydrogen economy, nano technology, AI, Bhd yesterday accepted a RM46.4
robotics, advanced materials as well as million contract award from Greenviro
Mustapa said the emergence of new research and development, commercialisation, Solutions Sdn Bhd to undertake, among
technologies such as robotics, artificial innovation, and economy. – Bernama others, the engineering, procurement,
intelligence (AI), and Internet of Things have construction and commissioning works
changed the way the world operates. in relation to the development of a
10MW large-scale solar photovoltaic
The National 4IR Policy represents a (LSSPV) power plant at Nibong Tebal,
comprehensive policy to propel integrated efforts Seberang Perai Selatan, Penang. The
in transforming socio-economic development project is one of the LSSPV plants that
through the use of advanced 4IR technology. was approved by the Energy Commission
in March . Greenviro is in the business of
Mustapa said the policy comprised four providing solid waste management
core thrusts, targeting three main groups, services and in renewable energy
namely people, businesses and government. generation. Samaiden chairman Datuk
Dr Nadzri Yahaya is the chairman of
The four thrusts, he said, comprised preparing Greenviro. He is neither a director nor a
shareholder of Greenviro.
NovelPlus makes strong debut on Bursa’s LEAP Market
T7 GLOBAL COLLABORATES
PETALING JAYA: NovelPlus Technology Bhd CEO Crystal Lai said that with the listing, other languages from Southeast Asia. WITH SIEMENS LOGISTICS
made a strong debut on Bursa Malaysia’s LEAP NovelPlus is in a better position to focus on The market for e-books in the region has
Market yesterday, closing at 27.5 sen, a 83.3% expansion and pursue growth opportunities. PETALING JAYA: Energy solutions
or 12.5 sen premium over its offer price of 15 seen a growth to US$382.9 million (RM1.6 provider T7 Global Bhd is teaming up
sen per share with over 57,400 shares traded. “NovelPlus continues to innovate and billion) from US$308.1 million in 2016, which with Singapore-based Siemens
evolve for the needs of our users. This is the translates into a compound annual growth rate Logistics Pte Ltd to collaborate in
The online social reading and writing beginning of an evolution for NovelPlus and (CAGR) of 7.5%. The e-book market size may business opportunities in Malaysia,
platform developer and operator with a library we will continue to make improvements that register a CAGR of 6.4% between 2020 and especially the growing logistics sector.
of 37,000 novels in Bahasa Melayu and Bahasa mirror our users’ needs,” she said in a 2022, to reach US$461 million. The company’s subsidiary T7 Kemuncak
Indonesia as well as 2.1 million users, opened statement yesterday. Sdn Bhd yesterday entered into a
at 25 sen per 66.6% or 10 sen increase from its TA Securities Holdings Bhd served as collaboration agreement with Siemens
offer price in its first trading day. NovelPlus’ plans include the expansion of approved adviser, placement agent and Logistics. Under this partnership, T7
its library to include e-books published in continuing adviser for NovelPlus’ listing. Kemuncak and Siemens Logistics will
leverage on each other’s strengths and
expertise to collaborate on airport
logistics, parcel logistics and other
automated solutions. Siemens Logistics
is a wholly owned subsidiary of Siemens
AG in Germany.

BRIEFS12 theSUN ON FRIDAY | JULY 2, 2021 SE Asia, private equity deals
SUNBIZ fuel Asia’s M&A boom

SINGAPORE PRIVATE o Transactions in first half of the year reach US$707.7 billion, as of June 25, up 59% from a year ago and the
HOME PRICES RISE AT strong momentum expected to continue most in two years, according to data provider
SLOWER PACE IN Q2 Preqin. Dry powder in the region hit a new high
SINGAPORE: Asian merger and acquisition through because the Southeast Asian region is of US$384.9 billion in June.
SINGAPORE, Singapore’s private (M&A) activity surged to its second-highest still kind of nascent in the recovery but you will
home prices increased 0.9% in the level ever for a first half as Southeast Asian and start to see this re-emerging alongside PE deals were also fuelled by banks’
second quarter from the previous private-equity deals hit records, and bankers refinancing and consolidation and M&A improved lending appetite as many businesses
three months, slower than the two- expect the strong momentum to be maintained demand,“ said Amit Khattar, head of investment across the region rebounded from last year’s
and- a-half-year high pace in the first for the rest of the year. bank (Asia Pacific) at Deutsche Bank. pandemic-induced slump.
quarter, preliminary data showed
yesterday. The increase, however, Announced deals involving Asian He expects M&A in digital infrastructure Acquisition-related financing in the region
still marked the fifth consecutive companies came to US$707.7 billion (RM2.9 such as data centres, telecommunication towers climbed 16% to US$57 billion as of June 25,
quarterly rise. During the second trillion) in January-June, up 75% from the same and the consumer sector, as well as real estate Dealogic data showed.
quarter, Singapore re-imposed period a year earlier and not far off the record of transactions, particularly in Singapore, as
some Covid-19 curbs, the toughest US$758.6 billion logged in the first half of 2018, companies reassess office markets. PE firms swarmed into auctions of assets
since exiting a lockdown last year, to Refinitiv data showed. such as Hong Kong-based mattress maker King
combat a spike in local infections. Other chunky deals in Southeast Asia Koil and the China unit of drugmaker
Tan Tee Khoon from property portal Southeast Asia deals jumped 83% to a record included the US$18 billion merger of Grab’s Mundipharma, which is owned by the
PropertyGuru Singapore said the US$124.8 billion driven by blockbuster transactions Indonesian rival Gojek with local e-commerce billionaire American Sackler family.
quarter had started strong but including ride-hailing giant Grab’s US$40 billion firm Tokopedia, and a US$15 billion merger of
coronavirus restrictions had merger with US special-purpose acquisition the units of Malaysian telecoms firm Axiata The sale of Reckitt Benckiser Group’s China
impacted property viewings. Rising company (SPAC) Altimeter Growth Corp. Group and Norway’s Telenor. baby formula business was another example,
property prices in the past few with Primavera Capital Group emerging
quarters have led to some Bankers expect Southeast Asia to remain a Private equity-backed deals more than victorious over a bevy of rivals that included
expectations that the government big focus for dealmaking. doubled to a record US$102 billion. Sequoia Capital, KKR and Carlyle Group.
will step in to cool the market.
Singapore’s central bank chief Ravi “You still haven’t seen capex demand come Asia-focused PE funds raised US$80.5 billion SPAC-related transactions slowed as regulators
Menon said on Wednesday tightened oversight, but bankers are hopeful that
authorities were highly vigilant many discussions about so-called de-spac deals,
about a sustained increase in home when SPACs merge with target firms, will lead to
prices relative to income trends, and transactions over the coming months. – Reuters
their goal was to make sure the
market did not get ahead of Nissan bets big on UK with EV battery gigaplant
economic fundamentals. – Reuters
SUNDERLAND: Nissan Motor Co bet on Britain Falling battery prices drive EV sales
VOLVO CARS HEADING to supercharge its European electric future
FOR IPO BY END OF 2021 yesterday, pledging US$1.4 billion (RM5.8 Improvements in battery technology mean that electric vehicles (EVs)
billion) with its Chinese partner to build a giant are reaching cost parity with fossil-fuel cars. Last year, lithium-ion
STOCKHOLM: Volvo Cars is “making battery plant that will power 100,000 vehicles a battery prices were $137/kWh – 64% lower than in 2015
good progress” towards a potential year including a new crossover model.
initial public offering by the end of China
this year, its CEO told Reuters. Volvo Facing the most profound technological
Cars CEO Hakan Samuelsson and shift in a century, the titans of the auto industry Europe
other Volvo Cars executives laid out are racing to secure battery supply close to the
an extensive road map to becoming factories where they will make the new cleaner U.S. $137
a fully electric car maker by 2030, electric vehicles of the future. Rest of -12.7%
including plans to sell 600,000 world
battery electric vehicles at mid- Nissan’s backing for the 9 gigawatt-hour
decade and build a European battery (GWh) plant cements its wager on Britain five Electric car 3.1 million*
gigafactory in 2026. Volvo Cars earlier years after the Brexit vote threatened to block sales by market
this year scrapped a proposed off the rest of the European market. (units sold, battery cost 200,000
merger with the company’s Chinese per 2020 $kWh, change
parent, Hong Kong-listed Geely The £1 billion (US$1.4 billion) investment by on previous year) $181 $157 300,000
Automobile. In March, Geely said Nissan, its Chinese partner Envision AESC and *estimate -18.1% -13.3%
Volvo Cars would explore capital local government in northeast England will
market options, including an initial create 6,200 jobs at the Sunderland plant and in 2.2 million 2.2 million 1.4m
public offering and stock market British supply chains.
listing. Volvo Cars also said it plans to $221 200,000 200,000
equip many of its future vehicles with The capacity of the new plant is on a par with -25.1%
self-driving technology, including one announced by France’s Renault and
standard lidar sensors from Luminar Envision earlier this week, to be constructed in $384 $295 1.3 million 400,000 300,000 1.2m
Technologies Inc and computers northern France. -35.1% -23.2% 100,000 400,000 600,000
from Nvidia Corp. – Reuters 500,000
Nissan will spend up to £423 million to 100,000 900,000 200,000 1.2m 1.1m
H&M SWINGS BACK TO produce a new-generation all-electric 100,000 300,000
PROFIT AS CURBS crossover vehicle at the plant where it already 700,000
EASE, STORES REOPEN produces the LEAF electric vehicle and the 200,000
Qashqai crossover SUV. 200,000
STOCKHOLM: Fashion retailer H&M
yesterday reported a bigger-than- As world powers try to slash carbon 200,000 400,000
expected second quarter profit as emissions by scrapping the fossil-fuel guzzling
many of the company’s stores internal combustion engine, one of the icons of 200,000
reopened but earnings remained 20th Century capitalism, Britain has pledged to
well below pre-pandemic levels. The ban the sale of new diesel and petrol cars from 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020
Swedish company, along with other 2030.
big clothing chains, is trying to Sources: BloombergNEF, International Energy Agency Picture: Getty Images © GRAPHIC NEWS
bounce back from the pandemic, Envision could invest an additional £1.8
where restrictions and lockdowns billion in the battery plant to expand generating
earlier this year hit the industry’s capacity to up to 25GWh and create 4,500 new
sales. “As more and more people are jobs in the region by 2030. There is potential on
vaccinated and restrictions are eased, site for up to 35GWh, Nissan said.
the world is gradually opening up
and customers can once again visit Nissan’s Sunderland plant was one of the
our stores,“ CEO Helena Helmersson first in Europe to build electric vehicle batteries,
said in a statement. “Online sales though its stake in the joint venture was bought
have continued to develop very well out by Envision AESC. – Reuters
even as the stores have opened,“ she
said. H&M said 95 of its 5,000 stores
remained temporarily closed due to
restrictions currently, against around
1,300 at the start of March. – Reuters

Eurozone recovery faces risks from virus mutations: Lagarde

FRANKFURT: The eurozone coronavirus-induced slump, with spread of virus mutations.” EU governments have spent “Spillover effects ... could weigh
economy may well avoid the most divisions emerging between She was speaking in her role as heavily to shore up their virus- on EU economic activity if the
pessimistic scenario envisaged at the policymakers in different countries. stricken economies, increasing debt steepening of the yield curve were to
start of the Covid-19 pandemic but it the chair of the European Systemic piles that already surpassed a year’s perceptibly precede the economic
still faces risks from virus mutations, “The improved economic outlook Risk Board (ESRB), the European worth of economic output before the recovery in the EU,“ it said.
European Central Bank president on the back of rapid progress in Union’s financial stability watchdog. start of the pandemic in Italy and
Christine Lagarde said yesterday. vaccination campaigns has reduced Greece. Founded in the wake of the last
the probability of severe scenarios,“ In its annual report published financial crisis, the ESRB identifies
The ECB is beginning to debate Lagarde told the European yesterday, the ESRB said the EU’s The ESRB said a further rise in US the biggest financial risks facing the
whether to cut back on its massive Parliament. most indebted states could ill afford bond yields could drag up bloc and makes recommendations
bond-buying programme as the a surge in yields after borrowing borrowing costs on the other side of to authorities, although these are not
economy emerges from its “Of course, the nascent recovery massively to finance their responses the Atlantic. binding. – Reuters
still faces uncertainty also due to the to the pandemic.

Tall order at the Bull Ring 13theSUN ON FRIDAY | JULY 2, 2021
Hamilton returns to Austrian facing uphill battle to revive F1 title defenceEWIS HAMILTON faces an uphill battle SPORTS
to keep his title defence alive and to slow
Max Verstappen’s momentum this BRIEFS
Spectator who caused
Lweekend when the Formula One circus mass crash arrested
Mercedes team chief Toto Wolff made clear no want to see it every weekend because each track is
major upgrades were planned this year but different,” he said. A FUGITIVE cycling fan who caused a
technical boss James Allison revealed on the F1 mass crash of Tour de France riders
Nation podcast that the team would be upgrading “It’s still about finding the perfect set-up with a hand-written sign has been
because it can be quite sensitive in some areas to arrested by police five days after the
reassembles at the Red Bull Ring for Sunday’s their W12 car. make it work – and it’s never good enough. pileup, a source close to the
Austrian Grand Prix. Verstappen, mindful that Mercedes are “I always want to improve every week because investigation said yesterday. The
Just five days after the Styrian event in which expected to fight back, has encouraged Red Bull to even after a weekend like we had, of course, when unidentified woman, caught on TV
the Dutchman drove to a commanding lights- keep developing their car as much as possible. it looks amazing and we won with a big margin, it’s cameras holding her cardboard sign
to-flag triumph at the same scenic circuit – “Yes, we do have a very good package, but I never good enough.” – AFP in a yellow rain coat, sparked a debate
finishing more than 35 seconds clear of about safety and spectator conduct
Mercedes’ seven-time champion – Verstappen after the accident on Saturday that
is hoping for a repeat. Pogacar stamps left dozens of riders nursing bruises.
Tour authority “The woman has been formally
Another win would be Verstappen’s fifth of identified and she was taken into
the season and extend his 18-point lead on the custody a few minutes ago,” a source
36-year-old Briton, who has gone four outings told AFP after the state prosecutor for
without a victory and called on his team to the city of Brest confirmed that “a
rekindle the form that earned them the last DEFENDING suspect is in custody”. The accident on
seven constructors championship titles. champion the first stage of the race occurred
“I don’t accept anything,” said Hamilton in Tadej Pogacar when the woman, facing away from
response to suggestions that Mercedes’ decision fired outa the riders and towards the cameras,
to develop next year’s car at the expense of the defiant warning held up the sign which read Allez Opi-
current one will condemn him to a performance to would-be Omi, which translates as “Go, grandpa
deficit for the rest of this season. Tour de France and granny”.
“I think we’ve still got many races ahead of us title contenders by storming the
and we’ve got to keep pushing. We’re world individual time-trial yesterday while Senna scriptwriter to make
champions… and we can definitely improve if Mathieu van der Poel clung on to Ecclestone docu-series
we put our minds to it. the overall lead after stage five.
“If we’re not going to develop and improve Van der Poel kept hold of his MANISH PANDEY, who scripted the
our car for the rest of the year, this is the result yellow jersey by just eight seconds award-winning motor racing film
you’re going to see, because, as I said, they’ve while Ineos pair Geraint Thomas Senna, is making an eight-part
really eked out performance in the last few races. and Richard Carapaz lost more than documentary series about the life of
“I’m not going to question the team’s logic a minute on Slovenia’s ever- former Formula One supremo Bernie
and how they go through their process, (but) improving Pogacar, who is now Ecclestone and his transformation of
give us an upgrade. We would love an upgrade, second in the overall standings. the sport. The series will be titled
but I don’t think it’s in the pipeline at the Ahead of the 27.2km time-trial, Lucky! and has been given exclusive
moment.” Pogacar described the stage as rights by British billionaire Ecclestone,
critical to his chances of defending who was replaced by Formula One’s
the title he won in 2020 and the US-based owners Liberty Media in
manner in which he raced 2017 and is now 90. It will also use
322 Notices 322 Notices yesterday backed up that extensive archive footage provided
by Formula One. “Bernie has been
DALAM MAHKAMAH TINGGI IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES statement. able to reflect, not just on his days as
MALAYA DI SHAH ALAM ACT, 2016 Pogacar won last year’s Tour de one of the greatest sporting
AND impresarios of all time, but also on his
DALAM NEGERI SELANGOR France by overturning compatriot life,” said Pandey, who will write and
DARUL EHSAN, MALAYSIA IN THE MATTER OF B & W BEAUTY ASIA Primoz Roglic’s comfortable lead in direct, in a statement. No release date
SDN. BHD. a time-trial on the penultimate day, was given.
GUAMAN SIVIL NO.:
BA-22NCC-38-04/2021 Thomas, Korda lead US
Olympic golf team
ANTARA 201601010417 (1181347-D) and here he appeared to do at least
EXCLUSIVE LIVING FURNITURE (Members’ Voluntary Winding-Up) as well as that fateful day on the GOLFERS Justin Thomas and Nelly
INDUSTRIES SDN. BHD. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Creditors feted La Planche des Belles Filles Korda are set to lead the American
(No. Syarikat: 1116826-M) of the abovenamed Company which is charge at the Tokyo Olympics next
being voluntarily wound-up, are required month after USA Golf yesterday
…PLAINTIF on or before the 24th day of July 2021 slopes where he clinched the Tour Team UAE confirmed the eight athletes taking
to send in their names and addresses on his rookie appearance. Emirates’ Tadej part. Thomas, Collin Morikawa,
DAN with particulars of their debts and claims, Xander Schauffele and Bryson
and of any security held by them, and the “It couldn’t really have gone any Pogacar of DeChambeau made the cut last week.
1. CAHAYA KANGEAN SDN. BHD. names and addresses of their Solicitors better today,” said the 22-year-old Slovenia rides Korda is joined by Danielle Kang, Lexi
(No. Syarikat: 1240029-H) (if any) to the undersigned Liquidator at UAE rider. “With so many fans along during the 5th Thompson and her sister Jessica
Suite D23, 2nd Floor, Plaza Pekeliling, No. the route it was really emotional stage of the Tour Korda. “Team USA will again have the
2. ABANG MOHAMMAD FIRDAUF BIN 2 Jalan Tun Razak, 50400 Kuala Lumpur and I rate this as one of my best de France time largest contingent of players in the
ABANG MOHAMAD DAUHARY and if so required by notice in writing days in the saddle. trial between Olympic golf competition with eight
(No. K/P: 911110-13-5473) from the said Liquidator, are by their of golf's stars giving the United States
… DEFENDAN-DEFENDAN Solicitors or personally required to write “I have changed my riding Change and a strong chance at reaching the
in and prove their said debts and claims at position, it’s less aerodynamic but Laval. – AFPPIX podium,” USA Golf executive director
NOTIS PENGIKLANAN such time and place as shall be specified allows me a stronger push,” added Andy Levinson said.
in such notice, or in default thereof they Pogacar.
Kepada:- will be excluded from the benefit of any Breastfeeding athletes can
distribution made before such debts and “There are still some tricky bring children to Tokyo
ABANG MOHAMMAD FIRDAUF BIN claims are proved. stages, even an easy looking day,
ABANG MOHAMAD DAUHARY Kuala Lumpur you never know what can happen,” BREASTFEEDING athletes will be
(No. K/P: 911110-13-5473) Dated this 24th day of June 2021 said Pogacar. “I’m further ahead allowed to bring children to the Tokyo
No. 05-06 Balau Q, Jalan Balau 17, Yap Siew Cheng now and attacks will come every Olympics “when necessary”,
Taman Rinting, 81750 Masai, Johor. Liquidator day.” – AFP organisers have announced, after
Note: This notice is purely formal. criticism from mothers over tough
AMBIL PERHATIAN bahawa suatu rules on bringing family to the
tindakan telah dimulakan terhadap kamu All known creditors have been or Games. The clarification was
di Mahkamah Tinggi Shah Alam dalam will be paid in full. welcomed by some athletes as a
Guaman No: BA-22NCC-38-04/2021 oleh relief, but US football star Alex
EXCLUSIVE LIVING FURNITURE INDUSTRIES IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES Morgan slammed organisers for
SDN. BHD. melalui peguamcaranya, Tetuan ACT, 2016 keeping her in the dark about the
Prem & Associates yang beralamat criteria. Athletes' families are banned
di Unit A-16-11, Tower A, Vertical from attending the pandemic-
Business Suite Avenue 3, Bangsar South postponed Games, under anti-virus
No. 8, Jalan Kerinchi, 59200 Kuala rules that organisers say are needed
to hold the event safely. But Games
Lumpur dan Mahkamah telah melalui AND DeChambeau’s quest chiefs have now made an exception
satu Perintah bertarikh 17/06/2021 IN THE MATTER OF B & W BEAUTY ASIA for distance marches on for breastfeeding infants “after careful
memerintahkan bahawa Writ bertarikh consideration of the unique situation”,
02/04/2021 dan Pernyataan Tuntutan SDN. BHD. BRYSON DECHAMBEAU isn’t satisfied with on Sunday to claim his first major title at the US saying they will be allowed to
bertarikh 02/04/2021tersebut hendaklah 201601010417 (1181347-D) leading the PGA Tour in driving distance this Open at Winged Foot. He won again at Bay Hill accompany their mothers “when
diserahkan kepada kamu secara (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-Up) season as his quest for more distance off the tee in March and finished third at The Players. necessary”. US football star Alex
penyampaian ganti dengan menampalkan At an Extraordinary General Meeting of continues. Morgan, whose daughter Charlie
sesalinan Writ bertarikh 02/04/2021 dan the members of B & W BEAUTY ASIA SDN. “It gave me the confidence to win the US turned one in May, said the policy did
Pernyataan Tuntutan bertarikh 02/04/2021 BHD. duly convened and held at Suite D23, DeChambeau saw his victory at last year’s Open knowing that I can play a game that’s not not go far enough. “Still not sure what
dan Perintah bertarikh 17/06/2021 di 2nd Floor, Plaza Pekeliling, No. 2 Jalan Tun Rocket Mortgage Classic as validation that his normal or is a little unique and different,“ he said. ‘when necessary’ even means”.
alamat terakhir kamu yang diketahui Razak, 50400 Kuala Lumpur on the 14th smash-and-wedge approach was working. .Morgan said.
di No. 05-06 Balau Q, Jalan Balau 17, day of June 2021 the following special “You look at the US Open, it was a prime
Taman Rinting, 81750 Masai, Johor; dan resolutions were duly passed:- He returned from the tour’s coronavirus example. Everybody thought I was crazy by
dengan menampalkan sesalinan Writ That the Company be wound up voluntarily hiatus to post three consecutive top-10 results. saying I’m just going to bomb and gouge it, but
bertarikh 02/04/2021 dan Pernyataan and that Yap Siew Cheng of Suite D23, DeChambeau then bludgeoned his way to it worked out that week.”
Tuntutan bertarikh 02/04/2021 dan 2nd Floor, Plaza Pekeliling, No. 2 Jalan victory at the Detroit Golf Club, hammering balls
Perintah bertarikh 17/06/2021 di papan Tun Razak, 50400 Kuala Lumpur be and as far as he could off the tee and content to hit The strategy finally backfired when
notis Mahkamah Tinggi Shah Alam; dan is hereby appointed Liquidator of the wedges from wherever they landed. DeChambeau collapsed on the back nine while
dengan mengiklankan Notis ini dalam Company. leading the US Open at Torrey Pines two weeks
dua (2) akhbar harian tempatan, iaitu That the said Liquidator be authorised to He was one of three players to post four ago.
The Sun Daily dan Sinar Harian sebanyak distribute either in cash, specie or in kind rounds in the 60s, with his closing 65 helping
satu (1) kali dan bahawa penampalan amongst the contributors of the Company He chalked it up to bad luck, acknowledging
dan pengiklanan sedemikian adalah in accordance with their respective rights
dianggap sebagai penyampaian yang and interests therein.
cukup dan sempurna kepada kamu That the Liquidator be indemnified by
selepas empat belas (14) hari dari tarikh the Company against all costs, charges,
akhir penampalan dan pengiklanan. DAN losses, expenses and liabilities incurred in
AKHIRNYA DIPERINTAHKAN bahawa or sustained by her in the execution and
kos permohonan ini adalah kos mengikut discharge of her duties as Liquidator and
kausa. in relation thereto.

Bertarikh 17 Jun 2021 DeChambeau overtake Matthew Wolff on that his aggressive approach off the tee leaves
Sunday for a three-shot victory. him vulnerable to the occasional bad lie.
T.T.
............................................. “It was a milestone to show everybody that “Didn’t work out at Torrey, but that’s OK,” he
this is a different way that I can do it and still said. “Life goes on.”
Tetuan Prem & Associates Seng Sin Mon win, so I was pretty proud of that,“ he said
Peguamcara bagi Plaintif Director And so does the quest for more distance.

NOTIS PENGIKLANAN ini disediakan oleh
Tetuan Prem & Associates, peguamcara
bagi Plaintif yang beralamat untuk
penyampaian di Unit A-16-11, Tower A,
Vertical Business Suite Avenue 3, Bangsar

South No. 8, Jalan Kerinchi, 59200 Kuala yesterday. Asked what’s next in the evolution of his game,
Lumpur. DeChambeau employed the strategy two DeChambeau said, “Just trying to hit it farther.” –
No. Tel: 03-2242 2141 / No. Faks: 03-2242 Field Level Media
3140 / No. Ruj: PA/BS/L/ELFISB/1568/21 months later when he again leapfrogged Wolff

14 theSUN ON FRIDAY | JULY 2, 2021 TRAMLINES
SPORTS Andreescu fails to break
Wimbledon jinx
Joker on a mission
EVEN Bianca Andreescu could not help
Djokovic history surge inspired by 2016 Golden Slam heartbreak but burst out laughing when a
spectacular mis-hit lob from Alize Cornet
Novak Djokovic clipped the corner of the baseline to
returns against Kevin condemn the Canadian fifth seed to yet
Anderson (not in picture) another first-round exit at Wimbledon
during their men’s singles 2nd round yesterday. The 2019 US Open champion
match of the 2021 Wimbledon has yet to find her grasscourt feet as both
Championships at The All England her appearances at the All England Club
Tennis Club. – AFPPIX have ended in first-round exits. Yesterday
her 6-2, 6-1 walloping by French nemesis
NOVAK DJOKOVIC admitted after easing past Kevin Anderson 6-3, 6-3, 6-3 qualifier Denis Kudla. Cornet meant she became the second
yesterday that his 2016 Golden Slam to make the third round at Wimbledon for the Djokovic cruised to victory over Anderson, highest women’s seed to perish at this
heartbreak is inspiring him in his 15th time. year’s grasscourt major. “At one point she
latest assault on the tennis record who he defeated in the 2018 final, without just... switched gears and she was on
books. “I won the first two Slams of the year, facing a single break point and committing another level,” Andreescu said. “She played
coming in here in Wimbledon, actually just six unforced errors. really well. She was taking control from
Having already captured the Australian feeling great, playing great, but then I lost the the start.”
Open and French Open titles this season, the third round against of course a great “I have a nice connection with the crowd,”
world No. 1 is halfway to becoming only the opponent, Sam Querrey, who was a better added Djokovic. Sabalenka proud to find a way
third man to complete the calendar Grand player that day.
Slam of all four majors. “I also seem to be having a really nice PLAYING for the first time on
“I felt a little bit different, maybe a little bit connection with the grass. I don’t recall Wimbledon’s Centre Court with the crowd
However, if he wins Wimbledon and the deflated. I don’t want to say demotivated falling so much in the first two matches at emphatically behind their local hope,
US Open as well as an Olympic gold medal in because playing Wimbledon is always a Wimbledon previously.” 219th-ranked Briton Katie Boulter, a
Tokyo, he would be the first man to win the dream for any player, including myself. nervous Aryna Sabalenka did not know
Golden Grand Slam. However, Djokovic, who also struggled what to do for a long time during her
“It was the first time I experienced that with his footwork in his opening round win second round match yesterday. But she
Djokovic was on target to achieve an kind of situation and circumstances. So this over Jack Draper, later refused to blame the dug deep to outlast her opponent,
identical sweep in 2016 when he won in time I would like to think I am a bit wiser and courts. winning 4-6, 6-3, 6-3, a victory that filled
Melbourne as well as at Roland Garros. a bit more experienced as a player and her with pride. “I’m proud that I actually
person.” “I think the fact that I didn’t play on grass could get through this match because I
But he lost in the third round at courts for two years,” he said. was really emotional in the beginning and
Wimbledon to Sam Querrey, the first round of Yesterday, Djokovic survived a series of I didn’t really feel the surface out there,”
the Rio Olympics to Juan Martin del Potro falls on Centre Court to keep his pursuit of a “The fact that I’m coming from several the world No. 4 told reporters. “I felt like
before Stan Wawrinka defeated him in the sixth Wimbledon and record-equalling 20th months of clay court that is a surface everything was against me… so, yeah,
final of the US Open. Grand Slam title on track. completely different in terms of movement really proud that I could stay focused and
and bounce and everything to the grass. keep fighting for every opportunity I had.”
“I’m going to try to learn from that Each time, the 34-year-old dusted himself
experience that I had in 2016,” said Djokovic down to set up a clash against American “I’m still adjusting my movement, Kenin dumped out
adapting myself to this surface. It’s only been
two matches.” – AFP AMERICAN Sofia Kenin became the
highest women’s seed to fall so far at
And the Oscar goes to… Not bad for part-time Wimbledon as she suffered a 6-2 6-4
Andy Murray player, says Kyrgios second-round defeat at the hands of
compatriot Madison Brengle yesterday.
ANDY MURRAY appeared down and out yesterday NICK KYRGIOS won his first match since sent him into a second round clash with The 2020 Australian Open champion
but he was back doing what he likes best at the Australian Open yesterday, defeating Italy’s Gianluca Mager. Kenin, seeded four, never got going on a
Wimbledon, picking himself up and dusting himself French 21st seed Ugo Humbert in five sets cool Court Two and lasted only 45
down as he roared to a 6-3, 4-6, 4-6, 6-4, 6-2 second- at Wimbledon before declaring: “Not bad Four of those aces had come on minutes against the experienced 31-year-
round win over little-known German qualifier Oscar for a part-time player”. Wednesday in the first game of the fourth old who has matched her best run here. “I
Otte. set, a service game which took just 43 really did not feel my game,” Kenin said. “I
The 60th-ranked Kyrgios triumphed 6-4, seconds. just feel like leading up to Wimbledon I
Before yesterday, Murray had never lost a Grand 4-6, 3-6, 6-1, 9-7 in a match held over from didn’t have enough clearly preparation on
Slam match to a player ranked as low as No. 151 Otte Wednesday evening when the final set was It is that kind of electrifying the grass.”
and he had never been beaten before the third level at 3-3. performance that makes Kyrgios such a
round at the All England Club. crowd-pleaser. Don’t write off Serena:
“Ugo is an incredible kid and I knew I Wilander
When the match had to be briefly halted at 2-2 in was a massive underdog. “I’m doing my best. So I’ll continue to
the fourth set as gathering gloom meant the Centre go out there and try and give them a show A 24TH Grand Slam title is getting “further
Court roof had to be closed so that the contest could “It was easy to get off the couch in and further” away for Serena Williams after
continue under floodlights, it seemed as if Murray Canberra as Wimbledon is one of my and just try and bring that her painful exit from Wimbledon on
was on the verge of losing both of those personal favourite events and I heard there was different aspect of tennis,” he Wednesday but she can still get there,
milestones on day three of the championships. going to be a crowd so it was an easy said. says Mats Wilander. “I guess it’s getting
decision to come here. “A lot of people further and further away but you’ve got to
But that stoppage allowed 118th-ranked Murray, wanted me to play give her a chance at the US Open,”
playing on a wildcard this year as he works his way “It’s a great change of scenery,” because of that. I’m Wilander, who is working for Eurosport at
back to full fitness following hip-resurfacing surgery added Kyrgios who is playing his first here, I’m trying to give the Championships, told Reuters. “I think
in 2019, to gather his thoughts and change his event outside of his own country for you what I’ve got. this was an injury that she had coming in.
tactics as he won 10 of the next 14 games to book a the first time since the 2020 Yesterday the Grasscourts are dangerous when you have
third-round meeting with Canadian 10th seed Denis Australian Open. crowd was a little bit of an injury that’s for sure. But I
Shapovalov. thanking me. think we have to wait for a little bit longer
Kyrgios shrugged off an ugly- They’re like, Thank before we can write her off.”
“I enjoyed the end, the middle part not so much. looking fall in the 13th game of you, Nick, for keeping
What an amazing atmosphere to play in. I needed the final set when his right me so entertained.” – Jabeur flies flag for
everyone’s help tonight and they did a great job,” a knee buckled beneath him. AFP Arab women
hugely-relieved Murray told the hollering 7,500 fans Kyrgios
who had been allowed into the stands. On Wednesday, he was ONS JABEUR says “being the only Arab
overheard muttering that (woman)” on the tennis tour “is not easy”
“I had to do something differently. I started going Court One was a joke. but she hopes one day there will be a
for my shots more, dictating more points. I was being whole group of them like the Americans
a little bit negative and because of the lack of His 23 aces and 51 and French. The 25-year-old Tunisian is
matches I didn’t make the right decisions. winners over a player setting a fine example to ensure this is
he also defeated in fulfilled by becoming the first Arab
“I played the right way the last couple of sets. The five sets at the woman to win a WTA tournament title in
first set and a half was good. It’s the bit in the middle Australian Open Birmingham, England, earlier this month.
I’d like to change.” – Reuters Yesterday she brushed aside five-time
Wimbledon singles title winner Venus
Williams in straight sets to reach the third
round for the first time. “Being the only
Arab is not easy to be on tour right now,”
she said. “Hopefully, you never know.
Maybe now someone is watching and
wants to be here in my place. I just want
to say if I did it, it’s not impossible. Like I
said before, I always try to inspire other
generations.”

Cry Mannschaft 15theSUN ON FRIDAY | JULY 2, 2021
Loew’s reign comes to confused and aimless end at Euro 2020 * SPORTS

█ MELISSA REDDY applied an expected finish, there it mattered most. SHORTS
would be an altogether different Four years later, they slumped out at Devils seal Sancho deal
LONG before that moment, slant on the analysis of the team.
played out in slow motion with But that would be to completely the group stage of the global showpiece MANCHESTER UNITED have agreed to sign England forward Jadon
the weight of history along with ignore the fact that it’s been impossible for the first time since 1938. Sancho from Borussia Dortmund in a deal worth £73 million
Germany’s present and future to predict what to expect from Loew’s (RM402m), according to reports yesterday.
riding on it, there were signs at men. In recent months, we have seen United have been keen to bring Sancho to OldTrafford since last year
Germany be tanked by North and they are finally set to get their man.
Macedonia and utterly trounced 6-0 by
Wembley that Joachim Loew’s side At their pinnacle, a 7-1 scorching of Spain. After failing to meet Dortmund’s £100m (RM550m) asking price
were suffering an on-pitch identity Brazil at the 2014 World Cup was At the Euros itself, we’ve seen them last year, the Premier League club have been in protracted
crisis. preceded and followed by exacting 1-0 Jekyll and Hyde their way through and negotiations since the end of the season in a bid to tie up the transfer.
In the opening exchanges, when victories. That, though, was a marker of out the tournament.
they were in the ascendancy against the Turniermannschaft – tournament They were fortunate to even face Sancho is believed to have been given the green light to discuss
England, Thomas Muller had his hands team – a side that had the England in the last-16 after the personal terms with United.
on his head in frustration. winning almighty scare and near-disaster
It was nowhere near the portrait of f o r m u l a against Hungary, in which they were six He is set to sign a reported five-year contract once he completes a
anguish he cut on 81 minutes, when he w h e n minutes away from being stone-cold medical.
inexplicably dragged a shot wide with bottom of Group F.
so much of Jordan Pickford’s goal to Their most impressive showing, Sancho will become the second most expensive English footballer
aim for, wasting the opportunity to the high-energy roasting of when he joins United, who signed Harry Maguire two years ago from
cancel out Raheem Sterling’s effort. Portugal, was not without its flaws Leicester for £80m (RM440m).
The Bayern Munich forward was and they were docile in
annoyed that Timo Werner and Kai possession against France. It will be a return to Manchester for the 21-year-old, who was a
Havertz were not pressing England Every Germany game felt like graduate of Manchester City's academy before joining Dortmund in
high and putting more pressure on you were watching a different search of regular first-team action in 2017.
their back three and goalkeeper. version of them: a series of
The body language of the pair unknown identity. Sancho made 137 appearances in all competitions for Dortmund,
suggested they were following a more Loew’s farewell is every scoring 50 goals as he established himself as one of Europe’s brightest
restrained tactical direction, and when shade of disappointing: a young stars.
Germany had control of the game in lost team, a lost sense of
the second half, there seemed to be direction. Sancho is currently on Euro 2020 duty with England, where he has
a continuous conflict of His 15-year made just one substitute appearance so far during his country's run to
approaches on show. tenure that the quarterfinals.
Should they stick, twist, began with a
keep it steely, or drum up golden group Spurs name Nuno as new boss
the chaos that saw them building
drown on Portugal? towards and TOTTENHAM yesterday announced they had appointed former
Germany ended up Joachim achieving the Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo as their new manager, ending their
Loew ultimate glory long search for a replacement for Jose Mourinho.
doing none of the
above, just slinging ends with the Spurs have been without a permanent boss since Mourinho was
aimless long balls to manager sacked in April, with former player Ryan Mason taking charge for the
repurposed striker looking clueless rest of last season.
Mats Hummels. after his
There will be the pedigreed Nuno, 47, has signed a two-year deal at the north London club
line of thought that if resources faded out. after former boss Mauricio Pochettino, Antonio Conte, Paulo Fonseca
Werner had buried As a whole, and Gennaro Gattuso were all inked with the job.
his first half chance, Germany wore a
if Pickford hadn’t straitjacket of their The Portuguese coach will take the start of pre-season training on
pulled off a top-shelf own stitching by not Monday, when players not involved in international football this
save to deny playing to any one summer will return to Hotspur Way.
Havertz, and if Muller approach, let alone to their
strengths. “When you have a squad with quality and talent, we want to make
The rare flicker of light at the fans proud and enjoy,” he said in a statement on the club’s website.
EURO 2020 FIXTURES Wembley came from Havertz, a
“It’s an enormous pleasure and honour (to be here), there’s joy and
Quarterfinals reminder that their talent line and I’m happy and looking forward to starting work.
powers of rebuilding should not be
underestimated. “We don’t have any days to lose and we must start working
Switzerland vs Spain So it’s goodbye and good riddance immediately as pre-season starts in a few days.”
(12am Malaysian time)
in the end to Loew, with a waiting Rafa promises to help ambitious Toffees
game to see if Hansi Flick can
Belgium vs Italy reconstruct the mythology of the PREMIER LEAGUE club Everton named Rafa Benitez as their new
(3am) tournament team. – The manager in a three-year deal despite opposition from some fans to
the Spaniard who used to manage arch-rivals Liverpool in the same
Independent city.

Everton had been hunting for a new manager since Carlo
Ancelotti, who led them to 10th in the League last season, returned to
Real Madrid for a second spell.

“I believe this is a club that is going places,” said Benitez, 61,
praising the Everton hierarchy’s ambition.

“I’m determined to play a big part in helping this great club
achieve its ambitions,” he added, according to the club’s website.

Benitez irked Everton fans in 2007 when he called them a “small
club” while he was managing Liverpool.

When rumours surfaced that he may be taking over at Goodison
Park – a stone's throw from Liverpool's home Anfield – some fans
hung protest banners outside the Everton stadium.

Police said one banner near Benitez’s family home in the area read:
“We know where you live, don’t sign”.

Get the latest Euro 2020
updates daily

Download app now from

FROM JUNE 10 to JULY 12, 2021

EURO 2020
Daily special

Download theSun app from

FRIDAY • JULY 2, 2021 or go to www.thesundaily.my

Road to glory – Euro 2020 quarterfinal match ups

ENGLAND and Ukraine booked their place in Belgium vs Italy The Azzurri are unbeaten through 31 hopes in Amsterdam.
the quarterfinals of Euro 2020 as the (Munich, tomorrow 3am) games, a new national record – one which will Ukraine vs England
remaining last-16 fixtures were completed on The world’s best team have be put to the test against Belgium. (Rome, Sunday 3am)
Wednesday. Here’s a look at how the four ties lived up to their billing as Czech Republic vs Denmark After losing to both
shape up. Roberto Martinez’s Belgium (Baku, Sunday 12.01am) Holland and Austria in
Switzerland vs Spain coasted through Group B Before Switzerland stunned Group C, Andriy
(St Petersburg, tomorrow 12.01am with a perfect record before France, the Czech Republic Shevchenko’s Ukraine were
Malaysian time) then dispatching holders had upset the formbook to left sweating on results
The Swiss – who qualified Portugal in Seville with a dump out 10-man Holland elsewhere to qualify as one
for the last 16 as one of fine strike from Thorgan Hazard followed by 2-0 in Budapest. of the third-placed teams,
the best-ranked third- determined defending during the closing eventually edging out Finland on goal
placed teams – delivered stages. The Dutch – who difference for the final slot.
the biggest shock of Euro topped Group C on the
2020 so far when they Victory came at a cost, though, with the back of three wins at the Johan Cruyff Arena – They then got past Sweden in a dramatic
knocked out World Cup fitness of Kevin De Bruyne and Eden Hazard to crumbled after defender Matthijs De Ligt was finale at Hampden Park, with a 2-1 win being
winners France following a penalty shoot-out be closely monitored ahead of their trip to sent off for denying a goalscoring opportunity secured by Artem Dovbyk’s goal in stoppage
in Bucharest, having rallied from 3-1 down Munich. with a handball after 55 minutes. time at the end of extra-time.
with 10 minutes left.
Italy also impressed as they won Group A Czech forward Patrik Schick took his England reached the last 16 without
Luis Enrique’s Spain runners-up in Group E, ahead of Wales without breaking sweat. tournament goal tally to four and has the conceding a goal, topping Group D after
recovered from going behind to a calamitous Golden Boot now firmly in his sights. Raheem Sterling goals had sealed 1-0 wins
own goal by goalkeeper Unai Simon to However, Roberto Mancini’s men were over Croatia and the Czech Republic either
eventually beat Croatia 5-3 after extra-time in stretched by a determined Austria in their last- Denmark qualified for the knockout stage side of a 0-0 draw against Scotland.
Copenhagen where late goals from Mislav 16 tie at Wembley – and could have been on a wave of emotion following their response
Orsic and Mario Pasalic had levelled things up behind in the closing stages but for the after Christian Eriksen suffered a cardiac arrest Back at Wembley once again, as for the
in another highly dramatic encounter. intervention of VAR to rule out Marko in their opening group match and had to be three pool games, Gareth Southgate’s young
Arnautovic’s header. resuscitated with a defibrillator. squad then showed no weight of history
against Germany as they won 2-0 thanks to
Eventually, though, Italy ground out Kasper Hjulmand’s squad, though, showed goals from Sterling and skipper Harry Kane.
another result with goals in extra-time from their place in the last eight is very much on
Federico Chiesa and Matteo Pessina, before a merit after an impressive display ended Wales’ The Independent
rare breach of their defence.

Guardian of
the Kingdom
At the scene of his lowest point, England manager achieved his
career high and should earn the trust of a nation by doing so

█ MARK CRITCHLEY early Wednesday morning. It is no small But today was
achievement. about more than
IT’S TIME to trust Gareth Southgate. today. Pull the
That does not mean agreeing with every What it means is that Southgate should be camera back and
decision that he makes. It does not mean given the leeway in his decision making. look beyond just this
he always makes the right calls. Every team sheet at this tournament has victory – as
It is not even simply because England beat sparked social media controversy. That’s to exhilarating and as
Germany in the last-16 of the European be expected. captivating and as
Championship, given that one Thomas frankly quite brilliant
Muller finish could have produced a very There’s a lot of talent, for starters. as it was – and you
different result, a very different mood around Everyone has an opinion. Everyone’s a little will see that it is hard
Wembley and a very different summer. afraid, too. More than a few of those in the to deny England are
press box were, particularly as Toni Kroos progressing on the
It’s time to trust Gareth Southgate because and Leon Goretzka ran the opening stages of right path
on Wednesday – unquestionably the this game, confirming all pre-match fears. regardless of what
highlight of his time in charge of the national happened here or
team, despite the success at the World Cup – Southgate, though, is the one who sees the what happens next.
did not happen by accident. players every day, as the cliche goes. He’s also This is
the one who sits through the meetings with tournament football.
It was part of five years of slow, gradual the analysis department. Strange things could be
but methodical progress that has at times round the corner. You can
been so gradual that, from the outside, it has He’s the one leading the conversations imagine what people say if
been mistaken for no progress at all. On the with his coaching team. He is the one who this now ends in defeat to
inside, it has always looked different. assembled that coaching team, which Ukraine in Rome on Sunday.
includes some of the most highly coveted It easily could. Players have
It is one of process over results. Methods talent in the country, as well as figures further bad days. Managers do too.
rather than outcomes. There was always an afield. This England manager,
inherent gamble in that: England chose a though, has had more good days
path to go down, would stick to it, but it had It’s why, if he thinks that a five-man than bad, more success than
to be on the right path. defence shielded by two holding midfielders failure, more light than dark.
is the game plan, he should be given the The way England play, and
It is worth reminding ourselves of how latitude to show why. the players he chooses to play
England started this memorable day. As a that way, is his prerogative. It is
nation, they had only won one knockout Aside from that 10-minute spell, and time to trust Gareth
game at a European Championship and that Muller’s chance out of nothing, Germany Southgate. He has earned that
was on penalties. were contained. Everything went as planned. much. – The Independent
England never looked like they would lose. Southgate
In terms of winning knockout games
against major footballing nations in 90 Whether they would win was another
minutes at major tournaments, you have to question. But they did and, in the end, quite
go back even further to 1966. That changed comfortably so, to indelibly mark today in the
long, centuries-old memory of English
football.

theSun is published and printed by Sun Media Corporation Sdn Bhd (221220-K) of Lot 6, Jalan 51/217, 46050 Petaling Jaya, Selangor. Tel: 03-7784 6688 Fax: 03-7783 7435 • Tel (Editorial): 03-7784 6688 Fax: 03-7785 2624/5 Email: [email protected] • Tel (Advertising): 03-7784 8888 Fax: 03-7784 4424 Email: [email protected]