The Sun - 15 January 2024

Malaysian Paper www.thesun.my RM1.00 PER COPY RM1 MONDAY JAN 15, 2024 SCAN ME No. 8436 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195) TikToker in trouble over ‘dirty’ video Malaysian Muslim Restaurant Owners Association to sue ‘Kak Dya’ over allegations several mamak restaurants have unhygienic practices. More than 100 police reports have been lodged over the video, that the association president has labelled ‘baseless’. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUN - Report on page 3 Report on hpage 2 Address woes of public university lecturers before they leave for private sector or add to brain drain by going abroad, says National Professors Council governance, law and management cluster head. Overworked verworked and underpaid Jeffrey Cheah scholar inspires and impresses Psychology graduate aims to raise mental health awareness, contribute towards betterment of refugee children and youths. Report on hpage 4 E-hailing services under spotlight Customer complaints about being requested by drivers to cancel confirmed bookings spark wave of discontent on social media. Report on hpage 6

MONDAY | JAN 15, 2024 2 ‘Public university academics overworked, underpaid’ oIf woes not addressed, productivity of lecturers, teaching, human resource talent pool likely to be negatively impacted, says professor PETALING JAYA: “We are overworked and underpaid, and the government must look into our problems now, before lecturers in public universities leave for the private sector or add to the brain drain by going abroad,” said National Professors Council governance, law, and management cluster head Prof Dr Nik Ahmad Kamal Nik Mahmood. He was supporting the Jan 8 statement by Malaysian Academic Association Congress president Prof Dr Ahmad Ismail that more than 30,000 lecturers in 20 public universities in the country are under stress. Ahmad Ismail had complained that lecturers face heavy workloads, including preparing lecture notes, quizzes and student assessments, supervising undergraduates, master’s and doctoral students as well as consulting and preparing assessments each semester. “In addition, we have to prepare research proposals for grants from various agencies, carry out scientific studies for journals, attend seminars, conferences and meetings as well as perform administrative work.” He added that for all this work, academics are poorly compensated salary-wise and receive little acknowledgement. “If these issues are not addressed, they would negatively impact teaching, lecturers’ productivity, affect the quality of graduates and the country’s human resource talent pool.” Nik Ahmad pointed out that academic workload often compels lecturers to extend their work hours beyond the designated weekly limit. “This encompasses teaching, research, student supervision and other responsibilities. All these demands leave lecturers overwhelmed, and it has reached a critical stage that early retirement has become an attractive option for many educators within the public university system.” Higher Education Ministry’s data for 2022 reveals that 1,868 professors and 5,115 associate professors were appointed in public universities and 30,380 lecturers and academic staff were working in 20 public universities in 2021. Nik Ahmad said while teaching is a fundamental part of the workload, lecturers are expected to engage in research, secure grants, conduct consultancy work and actively participate in various university and community activities. “Despite having numerous issues, the majority of lecturers remain dedicated to their duties. We deserve to be recognised with appropriate rewards and regular salary reviews, which are long overdue.” He said “unreasonable KPIs” negatively impacted the ability of lecturers to excel in their multifaceted roles. “This has also prevented many from taking advantage of opportunities provided by the government such as attending courses or workshops.” Adding weight to their concerns, National Association of Private Educational Institutions secretary-general Dr Teh Choon Jin said academic staff in private institutions are also grappling with workload challenges, especially in programmes such as media, arts and design. He added that despite these challenges, private institutions are committed to offering competitive compensation packages, benchmarking against industry standards, and providing incentives to attract and retain qualified academic professionals. Teh said while private universities are businesses that are driven by the need for sustainability, it is important to address the low morale and heavy workloads among lecturers in public universities. Tuanku Muhriz conferring the award on Razarudin at the investiture yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC Call to enhance friendship among diverse communities KUALA PILAH: The Yang di-Pertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir wants the people to reject negative elements which can undermine unity and harmony. He said this is to ensure that moral and social stability based on religious values could be strengthened. He added that people need to make an effort to recognise and understand the customs and cultures of the nation’s multiple races to ensure prosperity, especially in Negeri Sembilan. “Hence, I call on all to enhance friendship among diverse communities and get to know them through various activities such as gotongroyong, sports and visits during open houses. “These activities will ensure that the spirit of togetherness remains strong while maintaining unity and harmony,” said Tuanku Muhriz at an investiture ceremony held in conjunction with his 76th birthday celebration at Istana Besar Seri Menanti yesterday. Also present was the Tunku Ampuan Besar Negeri Sembilan Tuanku Aishah Rohani Almarhum Tengku Besar Mahmud. Tuanku Muhriz said the well-being of the people is also determined by the state’s economic achievements, and currently its GDP growth rate and revenue collection have been very good. He expressed hope that the state government would continue with the Negeri Sembilan Development Plan 2021-2025, the government’s latest plan to address the state’s growth issues and maintain the current economic performance. He added that all parties need to be prepared to face any changes, whether in terms of the economy or social conditions. Tuanku Muhriz said he believes that the state’s people are resilient enough to face the challenges ahead. He said he had been informed that his government had made preparations to help the people face uncertainties by strengthening the state’s management through innovation in administration, applying the latest technology as well as planning certain programmes. Tuanku Muhriz also reminded public institutions to further improve their delivery and management system to provide excellent services to the people. – Bernama M’sia, China mark 50 years of diplomatic ties KUALA LUMPUR: Formal diplomatic relations between Malaysia and China were established on May 31, 1974, making the nation the first Asean member to extend a hand of friendship to Beijing. The decision of Malaysia’s second prime minister Tun Abdul Razak to make the historic journey to Beijing during that period was hailed as bold and visionary. Universiti Malaya Department of International and Strategic Studies head Assoc Prof Khoo Ying Hooi said the MalaysiaChina relationship had undergone significant evolution over the years. “Malaysia has generally maintained friendly bilateral relations with China. “It can be described as a blend of cooperation and careful navigation of geopolitical complexities, driven by economic interests while mindful of regional dynamics and sovereignty concerns.” Centre for New Inclusive Asia president Prof Koh King Kee said the turning point for the fledging bilateral relationship was the lifting of travel restrictions by Malaysia in 1985 during prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad’s tenure. He said under the leadership of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Putrajaya is giving increased significance to fostering robust relations with Beijing. “Anwar himself has visited China twice within a year since assuming office in November 2022.” Malaysia-China trade has grown from US$388 million (RM1.8 billion) in 1985 to US$203.6 billion (RM936.5 billion) in 2022, an increase of more than 500% in 37 years. – Bernama MB heads awards list SEREMBAN: Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun headed the list of 473 people conferred awards and medals in conjunction with the 76th birthday of the Yang Dipertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan Tuanku Muhriz Ibni Almarhum Tuanku Munawir yestereday. The Port Dickson MP, who is also Sikamat assemblyman, received the Darjah Seri Utama Negeri Sembilan, which carries the title Datuk Seri Utama, at the investiture held at the Istana Besar Seri Menanti. Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain received the Darjah Seri Setia Negeri Sembilan Yang Amat Cemerlang, which carries the title Datuk Seri. State Mufti Assoc Prof Dr Faudzinaim Badaruddin, state syariah judiciary department chief syarie judge Kamal Bashah Ahmad Tajuddin, Bukit Aman Narcotics Crime Investigation Department director Datuk Seri Mohd Kamarudin Md Din, state government secretary Datuk Mohd Zafir Ibrahim and Seremban High Court Judge Datin Rohani Ismail are the five recipients of the Darjah Datuk Paduka Negeri Sembilan, which carries the title Datuk. – Bernama █ BY SIVANISVARRY MORHAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com

MONDAY | JAN 15, 2024 3 N. Sembilan stronger with changes in political landscape: MB KUALA PILAH: Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun said the state government under his leadership has strengthened further with changes in the state political landscape after the 15th general election. He said the political consensus through the formation of the unity government has resulted in a “political ceasefire” among several major parties in the country, and this has also been felt in Negeri Sembilan. “Alhamdulillah, thanks to this consensus, the people in the state and the country live more peacefully compared with foreign countries that live in war zones and yearn for peace,” he said during his congratulatory speech and loyalty pledge in conjunction with the 76th birthday of the Yang Dipertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir at Istana Besar Seri Menanti yesterday. Aminuddin said the state government is moving forward, having launched the Negeri Sembilan Development Plan 2021-2025 and the Negeri Sembilan Digital Economy Plan 2027, based on the key principle of economic prosperity, and promoting digital economic development until 2027. He added that the gross domestic product of the state this year is estimated to be moderate, growing at between 4% and 5%. Aminuddin said the state government is committed to continuing joint ventures with potential investors, both domestic and foreign, with Negeri Sembilan being a choice venue. “The Malaysian Investment Development Authority reported that until the third quarter of last year, a total investment of RM3.14 billion was recorded in Negeri Sembilan.” He also said the state government upholds the Adat Perpatih system practised in Negeri Sembilan and will continue to defend its sovereignty. – Bernama RM178m for bridge, road upgrades PONTIAN: RM178.7 million has been allocated to the Public Works Department (PWD) here to expand bridges and upgrade roads. Deputy Works Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan said the ongoing projects were the expansion of the Sungai Pontian Kecil bridge at a cost of RM23.1 million and the upgrading of a road from Jalan Pekan Nanas to Tanjung Piai (RM65.6 million). He said an allocation of RM90 million was also approved for the construction of a road from Bukit Nyamuk in Kluang to Kampung Puteri Menangis. “The project is to expand the Sungai Pontian Kecil bridge from two lanes to four lanes. It is expected to be completed in September 2025,” he said after being briefed by PWD officials on the projects yesterday. Ahmad said the department has also submitted several proposals to expand and upgrade the road from Maktab Rendah Sains Mara to Tampok town in Benut and from Benut to the Simpang Renggam toll plaza. “Another proposal is the widening of the state road from Ayer Baloi to the Sedenak toll plaza since there are many factories that provide thousands of jobs to the people in Pontian, Simpang Renggam, Kulai and Batu Pahat districts,” he said. – Bernama Water supply in Penang fully restored GEORGE TOWN: Water supply has been fully restored to a total of 590,000 consumers in Penang who were affected by a scheduled supply disruption for four days beginning Jan 10. The Penang Water Supply Corporation said the third and fourth stages of restoration involved 99.5% of the 590,000 affected users in Seberang Perai and the island part of the state. Supply to the remaining 0.5% of affected users at the end-of-line and hilly areas in the southern part of the island was fully restored at 6am yesterday morning. The disruption was to facilitate the replacement of two valves at the Sungai Dua water treatment plant and maintenance works at 22 other locations, which were completed ahead of schedule on the evening of Jan 10. The restoration of water supply for phase one was carried out in stages involving 197,025 consumer in Seberang Perai and was completed at 6am on Friday. Phase two, involving pumping of treated water from the Sungai Dua plant to the island to restore water supply to 495,065 consumers was fully completed at 6am on Saturday. In a separate statement, the corporation said it estimated a loss of 110 million litres per day due to a leak in the Sungai Perai underwater pipeline on Jan 12. “Recovery operations in Sungai Perai are ongoing at the emergency response stage, with close monitoring being carried out by commercial divers. “The next stage is an interim solution, which is the proposed installation of a 2 x 600mm pipeline next to the Ampang Jajar bridge to replace the damaged riverbed pipeline,” it said. It added that preliminary work for the replacement of the pipe has started and is expected to be completed within 21 days. The corporation also said the most rational permanent solution is to instal a new 1,350mm pipeline supported by a robust and independent structure. It added that the approval of the RM5 million budget for that purpose will be expedited and if approved, it would take four to six months to implement. – Bernama Group to sue Tik Tok user over mamak restaurant video PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian Muslim Restaurant Owners Association (Presma) is in the process of suing a woman who made several negative claims about some mamak restaurants through a video, said its president Datuk Jawahar Ali Taib Khan. He told theSun yesterday Presma has begun the process of pursuing legal action against the TikTok user, known as Kak Dya, after she alleged some mamak restaurants engage in appalling practices. “The video has humiliated Indian Muslim restaurateurs with its serious allegations, and we have hired a lawyer to pursue legal action against her. “The TikTok user claimed several mamak restaurants had unhygienic practices and superstitious beliefs like wrapping biryani rice with a man’s underwear. She also claimed that a medium-sized ‘toyol’ (stillborn child spirit) urinated into a pot of curry sauce.” oAllegations on unhygienic practices baseless and unsupported by facts, says association chief █ BY QALIF ZUHAIR newsdesk@thesundaily.com Jawahar said other claims made by the woman included one that a mamak restaurant in Perak used bathwater to cook gravies, and a restaurant serving dhal gravy containing frozen human faeces. He also said the video garnered over a million views and was shared almost 30,000 times since Jan 11 and spread across various social media platforms such as WhatsApp and X before being deleted. The TikTok account holder posts content involving “mystique, mystery and history”, and has over 1.3 million followers. Jawahar said almost 100 police reports have been lodged by Presma members, and he expects more to be made. “We have downloaded the video. Even if she apologises, we will pursue the matter so that other irresponsible people will not make similarly disparaging claims,” he said, stressing that the allegations are baseless and unsupported by any facts or evidence. “We vehemently deny the allegations in the video. It is filled with malice and is bound to create a negative impression of all mamak restaurants, which prioritise cleanliness and food quality.” He said the “deliberate act” of uploading the video was a calculated move to use social media platforms to spread misinformation and slander for the sake of publicity. “She misused these platforms to manipulate public perception through false narratives and damaging content just to become more popular.” He added that Presma has requested police to investigate the matter under the Sedition Act 1948, and the Communication and Multimedia Act of 1998, and to take appropriate action against all parties involved. “The accusation needs to be thoroughly investigated because it undermines the credibility of the mamak restaurant business as well as (riling up) racial sensitivities. “The video is tantamount to an act of sedition against the Indian Muslim community and mamak restaurant owners in Malaysia. It also threatens public peace. “We hope this issue will be a lesson to others so that nobody will make such disparaging statements or allegations in future just to boost their popularity, especially when not backed with evidence,” he said. Still hope for LabuanSabah bridge: Minister LABUAN: Residents here and in Sabah could see the realisation of a long-anticipated bridge connecting the island to the mainland, said Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Dr Zaliha Mustafa. However, she stressed the need for a comprehensive technical study to assess the estimated costs of the project. “We may need a new technical study to obtain the estimated cost and assess economic impacts on Labuan. I am optimistic after hearing perspectives from individuals at various levels, including the business community, community leaders and government servants, regarding the necessity of the bridge. “These insights need to be effectively communicated to the prime minister on the importance of the construction of the bridge,” she said at an engagement session held at the Labuan International School yesterday. – Bernama NEW AND VINTAGE ... A suit of armour stands among the decor as visitors browse displays at the KLPJ Wedding Fair exhibition at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre yesterday. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN

MONDAY | JAN 15, 2024 4 Move to instil code of ethics among traders MALACCA: The Business Ethics and Legislation Compliance Advocacy Session (Biz-Berkat), which aims to raise awareness among traders regarding the code of ethics and business regulations, will focus on four states hosting the Tahun Melawat Negeri 2024 initiative. Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali said the new initiative is part of efforts to prevent Malacca, Perlis, Perak and Kelantan traders from raising prices at unreasonable rates, especially in tourist areas. “Among its objectives are to establish a positive image not only to domestic visitors but also to foreign tourists, instilling confidence and attracting them to come and spend in Malaysia, considering the country’s 12th position among the most visited destinations last year,” he said after inspecting the enforcement in Jonker Walk, Banda Hilir on Saturday night. Armizan said the Biz-Berkat session would be implemented in all states and applicable to all forms of business. “We will conduct investigations and use our own formula, including examining previous receipts to identify non-compliance by traders.” Armizan said the ministry would increase the number of enforcement officers in the four states if necessary, with advice from the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry. “For example, during certain periods each year, we receive a large number of tourists from China, and if these states require enforcement assistance during that time for the Biz-Berkat session, we will send a team from Putrajaya,” he said. Armizan added that the ministry would launch the “Ihsan Rahmah Sales Programme” on Jan 24. “We plan to launch the programme in conjunction with the Visit Malacca Year 2024. This is the result of feedback of the existing Rahmah Sales Programme, including a minimum discount rate of between 10% and 30% of the original prices of the goods,” he said. – Bernama 1,842 Johor, Pahang evacuees still at shelters KUALA LUMPUR: A total of 1,842 flood evacuees are still taking shelter at 18 relief centres in Johor and Pahang as of midday yesterday, compared with 1,860 people in the morning. According to the latest report by the National Disaster Command Centre, National Disaster Management Agency, 1,124 people from 319 families are at 13 relief centres in five districts in Johor, while 718 from 215 families are at five centres in Pahang. In Johor, 606 evacuees are housed at four relief centres in Mersing, 254 at four centres in Kota Tinggi, 153 at two centres in Kluang, 88 at two centres in Segamat and 23 at one centre in Batu Pahat. In Pahang, 573 evacuees are still taking shelter at three relief centres in Pekan and 145 at two centres in Rompin. Meanwhile, several rivers are at danger level, including Sungai Johor in Kota Tinggi, Sungai Muar in Segamat and Sungai Endau in Kluang, Johor. Other affected rivers are Sungai Pahang in Pekan, Bera and Maran, and Sungai Rompin in Pahang; Sungai Perak in Hulu Perak, Perak; Sungai Arau in Perlis; Sungai Kedah in Kota Setar, Kedah as well as Sungai Terengganu in Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu. The report said the floods also resulted in 46 road closures, damaged bridges or landslides, including at Jalan Ladang Siang in Kota Tinggi, Johor, Jalan Kuala Mentiga-Terapai in Pekan, Pahang and Jalan Bukit BesiDungun in Dungun, Terengganu. – Bernama Beauty with brains aspires to make a difference PETALING JAYA: Beauty and brains all rolled into one. That is 25-year-old Kavita Sanglish. This Subang Jaya lass and her many achievements are sure to inspire others. A Jeffrey Cheah scholar, she earned her BSc (Hons) in Psychology from Sunway-Lancaster University last year, as she has always been fascinated with the mind and human behaviour. “Throughout my time in university, I volunteered and organised mental health talks and workshops for various NGOs. “This year, my goal is to pursue a Masters in Clinical Psychology. “I have always aspired to become a licensed clinical psychologist and contribute to the community’s betterment. “I also aim to raise awareness about the importance of preventing mental health issues, especially since the Covid-19 pandemic period and its lockdowns had affected so many people in the country.” Kavita credits her parents for her outreach programmes. “My parents have been very active in social and community work and they inspired me to be the philanthropically driven person that I am today.” But Kavita has a fun side too. She was among the top 10 at the Pencarian Puteri Malaysia national beauty pageant last year. She said she took part in the contest because she had been passionate about pursuing pageantry from the age of 11. Kavita (third from right) with Stand With Refugees members and Myanmar refugees. oPsychology graduate aims to raise mental health awareness, contribute towards betterment of refugee children and youths █ BY JOSHUA PURUSHOTMAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com Residents living in fear of rogue elephants GUA MUSANG: Residents in Land Development Plan Kesedar Renok Baru here claim they have been living in fear of three wild elephants roaming in the settlement since last Wednesday.. Resident Kartini Mohamed, 45, said she was alerted of their presence after catching a strong whiff of muddy odour outside her house. “I peered out of the window and saw the wild elephants. I quickly switched off the lights and stayed quiet as I was very frightened after seeing the large elephants,” she said. Another resident, Halimah Ngoh, 67, claimed that the wild elephants had also damaged about 15 coconut trees situated at the side of her house. Meanwhile, Kelantan Wildlife and National Parks Department director Mohamad Hafid Rohani cautioned residents to immediately distance themselves from the elephants, take cover and avoid provoking them in any way. He also advised farmers to work in groups and stay vigilant while outdoors. – Bernama “I guess I was inspired by renowned titleholders like Miss World Aishwarya Rai and Priyanka Chopra as well as Miss Universe Sushmita Sen, Pia Wurtzbach and Demi-Leigh. “Their success inspired me to take part, especially since pageants provide an effective platform for young women to grow professionally in their respective careers. “Pageants also offer vast opportunities to use our voices to advocate important social causes. “They also provide opportunities to collaborate with international humanitarian organisations such as the UN, Unicef, Smile Train, Global Citizen, and established brands.” On a more serious note, Kavita started a community organisation called Stand With Refugees in November 2022. “We are a diverse group of young people who contribute to the welfare of refugee children and youths in Malaysia. “As a psychology graduate, I aim to be an advocate for the mental health, education and nutritional wellbeing of refugee children and youths in the country. “This aligns with the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals.” Kavita said her organisation conducts various refugee empowerment workshops and activities for children and youths in refugee centres and schools. The NGO serves refugees from Myanmar, Somalia and Afghanistan. At the workshops, the children are taught to set goals and take care of their mental health by fearlessly overcoming challenges. “We also instil confidence and teach them not to be afraid of failure because that is part of life. “We will assist them to discover their ambitions, and inculcate the importance of embracing diversity. “Apart from this, we also organise various cultural activities for the refugees, such as Malaysia Day. “They are also thought Bahasa Malaysia through workshops. “They learn conversational Malay so that they can be more interactive.” Kavita said the refugees are also introduced to traditional Malaysian attire, food and games so that they would have an insight into our rich tapestry of cultures and traditions. Her organisation also conducts live talks on social media platforms and collaborates with other NGOs on its Instagram page (@refugees.my) to raise awareness about them. She added that through its initiatives, her primary focus is to contribute to the betterment of refugee children and youths. “Through Stand With Refugees, I hope to inspire other young people to similarly work to improve the lot of underserved communities in the country,” Kavita said.

MONDAY | JAN 15, 2024 | 5

MONDAY | JAN 15, 2024 6 /theSunMedia FOLLOW ON YOUTUBE Malaysian Paper Requests to cancel e-hailing rides irk passengers oDrivers use tactic to avoid action by firm, resulting in account suspension and fees on customers PETALING JAYA: An e-hailing service firm has come under fire after complaints of drivers requesting customers to cancel rides after confirming bookings, leading to inconvenience and financial penalties for passengers. Aisyah Balqis Zuhal, 26, said she was asked to cancel her ride as the driver claimed the distance was too far. “I incurred charges for cancelling the ride and faced a one-day suspension from using the e-hailing app.” Her experience and other similar ones have initiated a wave of complaints on social media, causing concern, especially for those who need rides during emergencies. Part-time Grab driver Yee Wai Jian, 34, told theSun that Grab uses an automatic acceptance system once a customer books a ride. So, drivers have to request customers to cancel their bookings after confirmation. “Grab uses an automated system, but drivers are not informed about upcoming bookings or locations. This presents a challenge when the locations are too far and the fares too low. “Often, such rides do not even cover the cost of petrol and we are left with no choice but to cancel the booking,” Yee said, adding that drivers are subject to warnings if their cancellation rate exceeds 30% per week. “If the rate exceeds this threshold, drivers may face temporary bans from the company, lasting for a few hours or possibly days.” theSun also reached out to other e-hailing companies, including Maxim and Riding Pink, which are also popular e-hailing services. These e-hailing companies offer drivers a choice to disable the “automatic accept” feature in their booking systems. This provides convenience and allows drivers to select rides based on their locations and personal preferences. Maxim e-hailing director Mohd Hazwan Musley said issues related to cancellations rarely arise among its drivers. “Our system is designed in such a way that drivers can select the bookings that are closest to them. This is because a pick-up at a far location will cost more time and money. “Usually, our drivers choose their trips, so cancellations rarely occur.” Riding Pink operations manager Rachel Christopher said it is inappropriate for drivers to provide absurd reasons for not picking up customers. “There should be an option for drivers to cancel the ride in emergency cases instead of asking the passenger to do so. Such a system will provide accurate records of who decided to cancel the booking.” When contacted, the e-hailing company in question referred theSun to its public relations agency, that declined to comment on the matter. Land Public Transportation Agency Director-General Datuk Azlan Shah Al Bakri said the government is against violations by e-hailing company. “We have not received any complaints from passengers about ride cancellations. I urge passengers to inform us, so we can look into the matter.” He said he believes such cancellations involved just a few drivers, but stressed the importance of discontinuing the practice. “Cancelling trips causes inconvenience to passengers, especially during an emergency and this practice should stop.” The illegal immigrants being questioned after they were detained at the field last Friday. – BERNAMAPIC Police seize RM4.4m drugs KUALA TERENGGANU: Terengganu police seized various types of drugs worth RM4.47 million, throughout last year, said state police chief Datuk Mazli Mazlan. He said 3,496 arrests, under Sections 6, 6B, 12(2), 39A(1) and 39B of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952, were made last year involving drug addicts and dealers. “The number of arrests showed a drop of 9.8%, compared with 3,880 reported in the previous year. The arrests also involved 35 individuals under the Dangerous Drugs (Special Preventive Measures) Act 1985. “Throughout last year, the Narcotics Criminal Investigation Department also conducted seven series of Ops Camar to crack down on drug trafficking syndicates.” Mazli also presented 15 vehicles, including motorbikes and cars which had been forfeited, to the state Education Department for automative teaching in seven secondary schools. He said a total of 62 vehicles of various types were forfeited for disposal throughout 2023, adding that some of the vehicles will also be auctioned to the public on Jan 22. – Bernama Three detained over match brawl KUALA TERENGGANU: Police have detained three men for their alleged involvement in a fight during a football match between NAG FC and KESA FC at the Terengganu State Sports Complex in Gong Badak in Kuala Nerus last Friday. The incident is believed to have occurred due to dissatisfaction among the competing teams regarding perceived biased refereeing. State police chief Datuk Mazli Manan said the three suspects comprised officials and players, aged 20 to 40. “The three suspects were arrested yesterday to assist in investigations into the fight, which resulted in an individual being seriously injured. “More arrests will be made and the case is being investigated under Section 147 of the Penal Code for rioting.” On Friday, a video, which lasted two minutes and 42 seconds, showing the brawl between NAG FC and KESA FC was shared on social media. – Bernama Woman loses RM500,000 in scam JOHOR BAHRU: A local woman lost more than half a million ringgit after allegedly falling victim to a non-existent investment scheme advertised on Facebook. District police chief ACP Ismail Dollah said the 54-year-old victim communicated with a woman claiming to be from China via WhatsApp after clicking on a Facebook link promoting the investment offer in October last year. She was then told to download an app and provide her details, such as name, MyKad number and bank information for registration purposes. “The victim deposited a total of RM314,000 to three different company bank accounts in stages. Upon checking the app, she found she had gained a profit of RM2.03 million. However, she was asked to pay RM240,000 if she wanted to withdraw the funds.” Ismail said she had not received any profits to date, as the foreign woman claimed her account was involved in a money laundering case, preventing the withdrawal of the profits, adding that the case is being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code. – Bernama 13 illegal immigrants nabbed while playing football KUALA TERENGGANU: The Terengganu Immigration Department detained 13 illegal immigrants while they were playing football at the Tok Jembal field in Kuala Nerus. State Immigration director Azhar Abd Hamid said 10 Myanmar nationals and three Bangladesh nationals were arrested at 5.30pm on Friday. “Their arrest is the result of an inspection on 59 immigrants who were found at the football field. All 13 illegal immigrants were arrested under Section 6(1)(c) of the Immigration Act 1959/63 (Amended 2002) for not having valid documents. “Earlier, we conducted a special operation on foreign nationals riding or driving vehicles (Ops PeWA), together with the Road Transport Department (RTD) and police, at the Terengganu RTD hall in Bukit Kecil (in Kuala Terengganu). “There was a group of foreigners playing football at the Tok Jembal field,” he said, adding that during Ops PeWA, six illegal immigrants were arrested. Azhar said they inspected 54 foreigners, detained three Bangladeshi and two Myanmar men for not having valid documents, while a Cambodian man was arrested under Section 15(1)(c) of the Immigration Act 1959/63 (Amended 2002) for overstaying. The department inspected 5,656 immigrants throughout last year and of the total, 1,226 were detained for various offences. “A total of 2,132 illegal immigrants placed at the Immigration Detention Depot in Ajil in Hulu Terengganu have been repatriated to their home countries.” He said 6,855 immigrants in Terengganu had registered under the Labour Recalibration Programme (LRP) 2.0 by 712 employers and only around 50% had completed registration. “LRP ended on Dec 31 last year, so we ask employers who have registered to immediately bring their employees to the Immigration Department to complete the biometric system identification. If they fail to do so, we will take action, including prosecuting the employer.” – Bernama █ BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI newsdesk@thesundaily.com

MONDAY | JAN 15, 2024 7 ‘N. Korea fired unidentified ballistic missile’ SEOUL: North Korea fired a ballistic missile yesterday, Seoul’s military said, days after Pyongyang staged live-fire exercises near the tense maritime border with the South. “North Korea fires unidentified ballistic missile towards East Sea,” Seoul’s Joint Chiefs of Staff said in a statement, referring to the body of water also known as the Sea of Japan. The Joint Chiefs of Staff said had it detected the launch but gave no further details. Japan’s coast guard said that an “object, potentially ballistic missile, launched from North Korea”, citing information from the country’s defence ministry and warning vessels to take care. North Korea’s last missile test was of a Hwasong-18 solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile, which it fired into the East Sea on Dec 18. The apparent test comes days after North Korea conducted a series of rare live-fire drills near the maritime border with the South, prompting counterexercises and evacuation orders for some South Korean border islands. Leader Kim Jong Un earlier this week also branded Seoul his “principal enemy” and warned he would not hesitate to annihilate the South, as he toured major weapons factories. “The historic time has come at last when we should define as a state most hostile toward the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea the entity called the Republic of Korea (South Korea),“ Kim was reported Wednesday as saying by the official Korean Central News Agency. Analysts said at the time that the shift was significant, signifying a shift in Pyongyang’s approach to Seoul into “ultra-hawkish mode”. Relations between the two Koreas are at one of their lowest points in decades, after Kim enshrined the country’s permanent status as a nuclear power into the constitution and test-fired several advanced intercontinental ballistic missiles. Last year, Pyongyang also successfully put a reconnaissance satellite into orbit, after receiving what South Korea claimed was Russian assistance, in exchange for arms shipments for Moscow’s war in Ukraine. Kim has also test-fired a string of advanced intercontinental ballistic missiles, including a purported solid fuel version. – AFP China opposes Japan’s congratulatory message BEIJING: The Chinese embassy in Japan said yesterday that it “resolutely opposed” Japanese Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa’s statement congratulating Taiwan’s new presidentelect Lai Ching-te. In a statement published on the Japanese foreign ministry’s website on Saturday, after the results of the Taiwan presidential election were announced, Kamikawa congratulated Lai on his victory, calling the self-ruled island claimed by Beijing “an extremely crucial partner and an important friend.” In response, the Chinese embassy in Japan, without mentioning Lai or acknowledging his victory, described Kamikawa’s comments as “a serious interference in China’s internal affairs”, according to a statement published on Sunday on the embassy’s official WeChat account. “We express strong dissatisfaction and resolute opposition to this, and have lodged solemn representations with the Japanese side,“ the embassy said. Japan, like most countries, does not have official diplomatic relations with Taiwan, a precondition for establishing diplomatic ties with China. But Japan’s alliance with the United States, Taiwan’s most important backer, and its proximity to the island, along with recent tensions in its ties with China, have prompted Tokyo to pursue closer ties with Taipei. “The Government of Japan will work toward further deepening cooperation and exchanges between Japan and Taiwan,” Kamikawa said in her statement. The Chinese embassy also said Japan should refrain from sending any “wrong signals” to “Taiwan independence” forces, a label Beijing uses to describe Lai and his political party, the Democratic Progressive Party, which champions Taiwan’s separate identity and rejects China’s territorial claims. – Reuters Taiwan voters rebuff China TAIPEI: Taiwanese voters swept the ruling Democratic Progressive Party’s (DPP) presidential candidate Lai Ching-te into power on Saturday, strongly rejecting Chinese pressure to spurn him, as China said it would not give up on achieving “reunification”. Lai’s party, which champions Taiwan’s separate identity and rejects China’s territorial claims, was seeking a third successive four year term, unprecedented under Taiwan’s current electoral system. However, in a measure of public frustration at domestic issues like the high cost of housing and stagnating wages after eight years in power, the DPP lost its majority in parliament, making Lai’s job harder in passing legislation. Lai also only won 40% of the vote in Taiwan’s first-past-the-post system, unlike current President Tsai Ing-wen who was re-elected by a landslide four years ago with more than 50% of the vote. Still, Lai lauded his victory. “We’ve written a new page for oGives ruling party third presidential term, with China not giving up on achieving reunification Indonesia’s Marapi volcano erupts again AGAM: Indonesia’s Marapi volcano erupted yesterday, with ash rising 1,300m from the peak six weeks month after a fatal eruption, according to the country’s geological agency. The volcano in West Sumatra province erupted at least twice by early yesterday, the agency said, urging the evacuation of people within 4.5km of the centre of the eruption, with the possibility of lava flows in rivers and valleys. “In case there’s a rain of ash, we urge residents to also use masks in order to prevent respiratory illness,” the agency said. In December more than 20 people were killed after Marapi, one of Sumatra’s most active volcanoes, erupted and spewed grey clouds of ash as high as 3km. Indonesia straddles the “Pacific Ring of Fire”, an area of high seismic activity atop multiple tectonic plates. Volcanic ash from yesterday’s eruption covered nearby houses, vehicles and evacuation tents set up by the local disaster agency, Reuters footage showed. A number of residents went to health facilities for respiratory checkups, and the authorities distributed masks. Maldives won’t be bullied, says president MALE: The Maldives may be small but will not be bullied, the president said after returning from China, where he signed a raft of deals, as a row with New Delhi deepens. New Delhi considers the Indian Ocean archipelago to be within its sphere of influence but the country has shifted to China’s orbit, the Maldives’s largest external creditor. “We are not a country that is in the backyard of another country. We are an independent nation,” Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu told reporters on his arrival home on Saturday. “This territorial integrity policy is one that China respects,” he said in the nation’s Dhivehi language, the Mihaaru newspaper late on Saturday. With Beijing and New Delhi tussling for influence, Muizzu was elected in September after pledging to cultivate “strong ties” with China and eject Indian troops. “We may be small, but that doesn’t give you the licence to bully us,” Muizzu said in a final comment in English. – AFP WATERY PATH ... Locals ride on a horsecarriage through water in Dayeukolot town that flooded after the Citarum river overflowed due to heavy rain in Bandung, Indonesia. – REUTERSPIC Taiwan’s history of democracy,” Lai, long the frontrunner in the polls, told reporters after both his opponents conceded defeat. Lai said he would maintain the status quo in relations across the Taiwan Strait, but that he was “determined to safeguard Taiwan from threats and intimidation from China”. At the same time, he emphasised the need for cooperation and dialogue with Beijing on an equal basis to “replace confrontation”, though he didn’t give specifics. In the run-up to the election, China denounced Lai as a dangerous separatist and called on the people of Taiwan to make the right choice while noting the “extreme harm of the DPP’s ‘Taiwan independence’ line”. They have also repeatedly rebuffed Lai’s calls for talks. China’s Taiwan Affairs Office struck a gentler tone in its response to Lai’s election and did not mention him by name, saying that the results reveal that the DPP “cannot represent the mainstream public opinion” on Taiwan. “Our stance on resolving the Taiwan question and realising national reunification remains consistent, and our determination is as firm as rock,” it said. However, it added China will work with “relevant political parties, groups and people” from Taiwan to boost exchanges and cooperation, and “advance the peaceful development of cross-strait relations as well as the cause of national reunification”. Taiwan’s election took place at a time of growing geopolitical tensions between Beijing and Washington. The arms race across the Taiwan Strait and Chinese military pressure on the island Beijing claims as its “sacred” territory is unlikely to end. Since the last election in 2020, China has engaged in an unprecedented level of military activity in the Taiwan Strait, including holding two rounds of major war games near the island. Lai, however, said “only peace will benefit both sides”. There were jubilant scenes among a sea of cheering supporters outside Lai’s campaign headquarters. “The DPP is the only party that can truly protect Taiwan,” said tattoo artist Cony Lu, 28, who broke down in tears of happiness. “So many people are willing to stand together to preserve Taiwan’s sovereignty.” – Reuters

MONDAY | JAN 15, 2024 8 @thesundaily FOLLOW ON TWITTER Malaysian Paper Sri Lanka expands mass drug crackdown COLOMBO: Sri Lanka’s police said yesterday they will more than double the number of suspects arrested in an ongoing anti-narcotics crackdown condemned by the United Nations, with tens of thousands already detained. At least 30,000 people have been arrested since the police operation – code-named “Yuktiya” or “Justice” – began in December, a crackdown denounced by rights activists. Police on Sunday said they were launching a new phase to arrest a further 42,248 suspects. “All police stations must work 24 hours a day for the next one month to arrest 42,248 suspects and bring them to justice,” the police said in a statement. It came two days after the UN human rights agency criticised the police crackdown over allegations of unauthorised searches, arbitrary arrests and detention, ill-treatment, public strip searches and torture. Volker Turk, the UN high commissioner for human rights, urged Sri Lanka’s government to review the operation and implement a rightsbased approach to combatting illicit drugs. “Security forces have reportedly conducted raids without search warrants, detaining suspected drug sellers and users, with hundreds sent to military-run rehabilitation centres,” a spokeswoman for Turk said Friday. “While drug use presents a serious challenge to society, a heavy-handed law enforcement approach is not the solution.” Turk’s spokeswoman said lawyers defending detained suspects had faced intimidation from police officers. Authorities believe the Indian Ocean island is being used as a drug trafficking transit point. Sri Lankan police have said about 800kg of narcotics, including 340kg of cannabis and 70kg of heroin, have been seized in the operation. – AFP B R I E F SFORMER NEW ZEALAND PM MARRIES PARTNER WELLINGTON: Former New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has married her longtime partner, tying the knot after Covid restrictions forced the couple to cancel a ceremony in 2022. On the back of her shock resignation in January last year, Ardern told reporters she was looking forward to “finally” getting hitched to her TV presenter fiance. The 43-year-old married fishing show host Clarke Gayford, 47, in a small ceremony held on Saturday in New Zealand’s Hawke’s Bay wine region. The couple planned to marry in early 2022, but were forced to cancel after Ardern’s government ramped up Covid restrictions in the face of surging cases. Ardern won international acclaim for her handling of the pandemic, although her popularity within New Zealand had soured in the months before she stood down from politics. – AFP FIVE PAKISTAN TROOPS KILLED BY BLAST ISLAMABAD: At least five Pakistan soldiers were killed when their vehicle was hit by a bomb blast following a clash with militants in southwestern Balochistan province, the military said yesterday. The incident happened Saturday in Kech district of the turbulent province, where the military has been fighting a low-level insurgency for decades. “Terrorists exploded an Improvised Explosive Device on a security forces’ vehicle, which was followed by an intense fire exchange,“ the military said in a statement. “During the operation, five brave soldiers, having fought gallantly, sacrificed their lives and embraced Shahadat (martyrdom),” it added. Three militants were also killed in the clash, it said. The South Asian nation of more than 240 million people votes on Feb 8 in a general election as it grapples with overlapping security, economic and political crises. – AFP Ecuador prison workersfreed GUAYAQUIL: More than 40 Ecuador prison officials taken hostage by inmates have been freed, the prisons authority said Saturday, as the country grapples with a brutal campaign of gang terror. The 24 guards and 17 administrative employees had been “released”, the prisons agency (SNAI) said without providing details, while 133 guards and three employees continue to be held hostage. The workers were taken captive after President Daniel Noboa last week launched a military takedown of criminal groups, sparking a deadly confrontation with narco gangs in the South American nation. The crisis was triggered by the escape from Guayaquil prison of one of the country’s most powerful narco bosses, Jose Adolfo Macias, known by the alias “Fito”. His escape was followed by prison riots, hostage-taking and attacks on the police. More than 22,000 troops have been deployed to carry out land, air and sea patrols. Authorities were raiding prisons, and a curfew was in place. At least 19 people have died in the violence, SNAI said, including a guard killed on Saturday in clashes with inmates in El Oro near the border with Peru. There were “armed clashes” at the southwestern Machala prison, while army and police raided detention centres in six cities to “restore order and normality”. At least five inmates escaped on Friday evening from the vast Guayaquil prison oCountry tries to control gangs, more than 22,000 troops deployed to carry out patrols with curfew in place complex, with two of them caught shortly afterward during a search operation, police sources said. Soon after their escape, two helicopters and drones were seen flying over the surroundings of the huge prison, on the northern outskirts of the city. Dozens of police officers supported by soldiers patrolled around the prison, where Ecuador’s most dangerous criminals are held. Once a bastion of peace situated between major cocaine producers, Ecuador has been plunged into crisis after years of growing control by transnational cartels that use its ports to ship the drug to the United States and Europe. Criminal gangs in the country of about 17 million people are thought to have more than 20,000 members. According to the latest official report, 859 suspects have been arrested, 25 escaped detainees have been recaptured, five “terrorists” shot dead and 57 kidnapped people have been released. A chilling video filmed in Machala prison and confirmed by police shows the corpse of a prisoner wrapped in plastic thrown into the street from inside the jail, which is under the control of inmates. Other images have emerged over the past days showing arrested suspected gang members being ridiculed, forced to sing, hitting each other or being mistreated by soldiers. Haley beats DeSantis in Iowa, Trump leading DES MOINES: Nikki Haley has overtaken Ron DeSantis for coveted second place in the Iowa caucuses, the last poll before the event showed Saturday, but former US president Donald Trump still leads by nearly 30 percentage points. The Midwestern state of three million people officially kicks off the 2024 US presidential election on Monday when its residents participate in its unusual “caucus” system to mark their preference for Republican presidential candidates. Trump received 48% of likely Republican caucusgoers’ vote in the NBC News/Des Moines Register/Mediacom Iowa poll, which is notable for its historical accuracy and ability to fuel lastminute surges. Election watchers have been looking for signs of a potential jump by Haley, a former UN ambassador and South Carolina governor, after she steadily gained support throughout the primary election season. Haley notched 20% of the vote, according to the poll, which is four percentage points up from where she stood in December. Florida Governor DeSantis meanwhile fell three percentage points to 16%, it showed. Iowa is a notoriously poor predictor of the eventual nominee, but it is considered crucial for winnowing the field and as a springboard to the next few battlegrounds. Those include Haley’s home state of South Carolina, as well as her preferred state of New Hampshire where she trails Trump by only single digits. Responding to the poll’s release, Trump urged his supporters to get out and caucus this week despite frigid blizzard conditions. “Our grassroots supporters have put us in position to win, and now we have to show up to Caucus for President Trump on Monday and get the job done,” he wrote in a statement. Trump’s 28-point lead was down from his 32-point lead over his nearest rival in December. Somewhat critically, only 9% of Haley’s voters said they were “extremely enthusiastic” for her, while 49% of supporters said that about Trump. “There is underlying weakness here,” J. Ann Selzer, who conducted the poll, said of Haley’s standing, according to NBC. “If turnout is low, it seems to me that a disproportionate share of her supporters might stay at home.” Straggling far behind, entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy came in fourth place in the poll at 8%, up from 5% from December. – AFP CHOKING HAZARD ... Women walking across a street engulfed by dense smog in Chennai, India in the early hours yesterday. – AFPPIC

MONDAY | JAN 15, 2024 9 GAZA STRIP: The war between Israel and Hamas entered its 100th day yesterday after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed “no one will stop us” from destroying Hamas. The conflict has triggered a humanitarian crisis, with more than 23,000 people reported killed in Gaza and much of the besieged Palestinian territory reduced to rubble as fears grow that fighting could engulf the wider region. Fresh strikes hit Iran-backed Huthis in Yemen on Saturday after the rebels warned of more attacks in support of Gaza on what they deem Israeli-linked Red Sea shipping. The US Central Command said its forces hit a Huthi radar site, a day after the first strikes by US and British forces on rebel sites in Yemen. After the Hague-based International Court of Justice heard arguments last week that accused Israel of breaching the UN Genocide Convention, Netanyahu insisted no court or military foe could stop Israel from achieving its aim of destroying Hamas. “No one will stop us, not The Hague, not the Axis of Evil and no one else,” he told a televised news conference on Saturday, referring to the Iran-aligned “axis of resistance” groups in Lebanon, Syria, Iraq and Yemen. “It is possible and necessary to continue until victory and we will do it,” he added, saying most Hamas battalions in Gaza had been “eliminated”. Netanyahu is under growing domestic pressure to bring home hostages who have now been held in Gaza for 100 days, with thousands rallying in Tel Aviv to call for their release. Health officials in Gaza said on Saturday Israeli strikes killed at least 60 people in the besieged territory. The Israeli military said it struck dozens of rocket launchers that were “ready to be used” in central Gaza and eliminated four “terrorists” in air strikes on Khan Yunis, Gaza’s main southern city. It also reported that its engineers had destroyed a Hamas “command centre” in central Gaza. Mourners gathered at Rafah’s Al-Najjar hospital and prayed around the bodies of slain relatives. One man, Bassem Araf, held up a photo of a child. “She died hungry with bread in her hand. We tried to remove the bread from her hand but it was held tight,” Araf said. “This is the resistance they are targeting in Gaza, just children.” An Israeli siege has sparked acute shortages of food, water, medicine and fuel in Gaza, where the health system is collapsing. The head of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, Philippe Lazzarini, said during a visit to the Gaza Strip on Saturday “the massive death, destruction, displacement, hunger, loss and grief of the last 100 days are staining our shared humanity”. He warned an entire generation of children in Gaza were being “traumatised”, diseases were spreading and the clock was “ticking fast towards famine”. Winter rains have exacerbated the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, where the UN estimates 1.9 million or about 85% of the population, have been displaced. – AFP Thousands march in Washington, London WASHINGTON: Thousands of proPalestine protesters marched in Washington, London and elsewhere on Saturday as part of a “global day of action” to demand an immediate cease-fire in the Gaza fighting and to oppose US and British support for Israel. In Washington, large crowds waved Palestinian flags as the mostly young protesters, many wearing the traditional keffiyeh, gathered in a show of solidarity on the 99th day of the Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip. “Cease-fire now”, people chanted, while carrying banners and posters that read “Free Palestine” and “End the War on Gaza”. On a stage a few blocks from the White House, several PalestinianAmericans – originally from Gaza, but now living in US states from Michigan to Texas – offered emotional accounts of friends and relatives killed or wounded in Gaza. They exhorted US President Joe Biden to end military and financial support for Israel. They said Biden can easily stop the madness by pressuring Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, one speaker said to wide applause. London, meantime, saw its seventh pro-Palestinian demonstration since Oct 7. About 1,700 police were on duty Saturday to ensure security for the London protest. “We want to show the people of Palestine we are with them, and to speak up against our government as well,” 27-year-old health service worker Maleeha Ahmed told AFP. “They are playing a very, very big role in allowing Israel to continue what they are doing and it’s just not acceptable,” she said. Another marcher, Dipesh Kothar, 37, said it was “very frustrating to sit and watch the world do nothing”. Saturday’s marches held particular significance given US and British air strikes in Yemen this week against Huthi bases, after the Iranbacked militants attacked ships in the Red Sea in solidarity with Gaza. The day of action, called by a British organising coalition, involved protests in 30 countries. Kate Hudson of the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament, which is part of the coalition, said the event was “to demand a permanent cease-fire and a lasting political settlement for all Palestinians”. She said the British government “must end its support for Israel’s brutal war in Gaza, and join the wider international community in condemning its war crimes”. – AFP Houthis vow strong response after new US strike ADEN: The Houthi militia threatened a “strong and effective response” after the US carried out another strike in Yemen overnight, further ratcheting up tensions as Washington vowed to protect shipping from attacks by the Iran-aligned movement. The strikes have added to concerns about the escalation of a conflict that has spread through the Middle East since Hamas and Israel went to war, with Iran’s allies also entering the fray from Lebanon, Syria and Iraq. President Joe Biden said the US had sent a private message to Iran about the Houthi attacks. He did not elaborate, telling reporters, “We delivered it privately and we’re confident we’re well-prepared.” The latest strike, which the US said hit a radar site, came a day after dozens of American and British strikes on Houthi facilities in Yemen. “This new strike will have a firm, strong and effective response,” Houthi spokesperson Nasruldeen Amer told Al Jazeera, adding there had been no injuries nor “material damages”. Mohammed Abdulsalam, another Houthi spokesperson said the strikes, including the one overnight that hit a military base in Sanaa, had no significant impact on the group’s ability to prevent Israel-affiliated vessels from passing. The Pentagon said on Friday the USBritish strikes had “good effects”. UN special envoy for Yemen Hans Grundberg called on Saturday for maximum restraint by “all involved” and warned of an increasingly precarious situation in the region. – Reuters B R I E F SU.S. LUNAR LANDER HEADED FOR EARTH WASHINGTON: A private US lunar lander that has been leaking fuel throughout its journey is now headed for Earth and will likely burn up in the atmosphere, the company said Saturday. Astrobotic has been posting regular updates on the Peregrine lander’s status since the start of its ill-fated voyage, which began when it blasted off on a brand new Vulcan rocket built by United Launch Alliance on Jan 8. Shortly after it separated from the rocket, the spaceship experienced an onboard explosion and it soon became clear it would not make a soft lunar touchdown because of the amount of the propellant it was losing though Astrobotic’s team were able to power up science experiments they were carrying for NASA and other space agencies, and gather spaceflight data. – AFP TURKISH SOLDIERS KILLED IN ATTACK ON BASE ANKARA: Six Turkish soldiers were killed and seven others wounded in an attack on a Turkish military base in northern Iraq, Turkey’s defence ministry said on Friday. The ministry said the soldiers were killed during a clash with “terrorists” following an attempted intrusion at the base near Metina in northern Iraq. It had initially given the toll as five dead, but one soldier later succumbed to his wounds. The assailants were presumed to be members of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), private Turkish channel NTV reported. Ankara and its Western allies classify the PKK as a terrorist group. Turkish authorities announced a military operation was under way in the area in response. As a result of these deaths, the ruling AKP party and the main opposition CHP party both decided to postpone the presentation of their candidates for the March municipal elections, which had been scheduled for this weekend. – AFP Pro-Palestinian protesters gather at the US Consulate General in Johannesburg, South Africa to protest against the ongoing Israeli military actions in Gaza. – REUTERSPIC Gaza conflict enters 100th day oIsrael PM says ‘no one will stop us’ from destroying Hamas as clashes trigger humanitarian crisis

10 MONDAY | JAN 15, 2024 Or download app on the AppStore or Google Play ENJOY A SEAMLESS READING EXPERIENCE. Read our iPaper at https://www.thesun.my/ If only sharing comes naturally AN impromptu cinema experience recently unveiled a profound issue that has persistently plagued societies worldwide for decades. The film in question, Dunki, featuring the charismatic Shah Rukh Khan, emerged as a tragic comedy set in the 1990s but remarkably resonant in today’s context. The film delves into the perennial question of why nations continue to impose unjust and malevolent visa requirements. While acknowledging the allure of certain countries and the influx of individuals seeking refuge from challenges such as poverty, war, discrimination and limited opportunities, the narrative shifts focus to a group of ambitious young individuals in their 20s attempting to reach London in the 90s. Their journey is fraught with challenges, near-death experiences and eventual return to Punjab, despite achieving financial success abroad. The innate call to return home is explored, reflecting the sentiments of many who leave their native countries in pursuit of better lives. The story underscores the contrast between those who retain a deep connection to their roots and those who assimilate into their adopted countries. The film introduces the concept of Dunki, shedding light on the illegal paths aspirants from India take to enter the US, UK and Europe. The existence of facilitators for such risky endeavours, known as touts, emphasises the persistent demand for such avenues. Coincidentally, I witnessed a massive immigration crackdown in Brickfields on New Year’s Day and the movie I saw days later connected. Shops and stalls were suddenly abandoned, and an immigration sweep resulted in over 300 individuals of various nationalities being apprehended, with more than 100 found to possess invalid or nonexistent documents. This prompted a crucial question: How did these individuals enter Malaysia legally only to become later undocumented? Or did they even enter the country legally? Either way, this calls for the relevant authorities to address the burgeoning issue at its source to prevent the constant need for city and town cleanups of illegal residents. Those who were rounded up in such operations, which are ongoing, are kept in immigration facilities of some kind. Never mind that the treatment of these undocumented migrants has been questioned before by non-governmental organisations, but it takes resources to keep them fed, clothed and sheltered, and the taxpayers’ money is being used for this purpose. In our interconnected world today, the latest estimates from the Population Division reveal a staggering 281 million souls, international migrants bravely calling a land beyond their birthplace home. Among them, the resilient spirit of womanhood stands tall, constituting 48% of these global pioneers. Yet, this surge in migration, a testament to human ambition and resilience, confronts political leaders in destination countries with a formidable challenge, to gracefully navigate the delicate balance between strained resources and pressing humanitarian demands. The pulse of migration, as captured by United Nations (UN) data and the Migration Policy Institute, quickens. The international migrant share of our global population has surged from 3.2% in 2010 to 3.6% in 2020. In this context, the US emerged as the dwelling place for over 50.6 million international migrants in 2020, a beacon of diversity and dreams. However, other nations, especially in the Middle East, have shouldered even greater shares of this transformative tapestry, reflecting shared humanity transcending borders. Yet, amid these remarkable statistics lies a call to action. The Migration Policy Institute’s stark revelation – differences in data collection that create a disjointed understanding of the international migrant population. There exists no consistent crosscountry definition, leaving room for ambiguity. The UN statistics, whether based on estimates of foreign-born populations or non-citizens, may not encapsulate the entirety of this dynamic narrative, especially when refugees may not be foreign-born. In the heart-wrenching tableau unfolding, each of the hundreds and thousands of migrants gathered carries with them a narrative etched in the rawness of emotion, a poignant tale that reverberates with the echoes of their homeland and the compelling reasons that forced them to embark on this perilous journey to a foreign, unknown land. Behind every weary face, there probably lies a desperate yearning to fulfil basic human needs, a longing that echoes through the ages. In a world saturated with resources, if only nations and individuals extend a caring hand, the story may be different. The haunting spectre of poverty and deprivation need not drive citizens of less privileged nations to brave the harshest and riskiest attempts at migration. The narrative of their suffering is not merely a statistic but a profound cry for empathy and shared humanity. The world, with its abundance of resources, has the potential to be a sanctuary for all, sparing these brave souls the treacherous paths they tread. It is a collective responsibility, a call to compassion, urging nations and people alike to open their hearts, to share abundantly, and to transform this tragic exodus into a testament of shared prosperity and a beacon of hope for a world where no one is compelled to embark on such harrowing journeys for the basic right to live with dignity. Comments: letters@thesundaily.com In our interconnected world today, the latest estimates from the Population Division reveal a staggering 281 million souls, international migrants bravely calling a land beyond their birthplace home. – SUNPIC

11 MONDAY | JAN 15, 2024 Stay healthy to overcome dependency NO one wants to burden others. We all want to be independent and self-sufficient. However, sometimes we have no choice but to rely on others for support. The aged and sick depend on family members and caregivers for assistance due to their physical immobility. I recall my late father, who, in his 90s, was determined not to burden his family. Despite the challenges of basic tasks such as sitting up and getting out of the sofa or bed, he endeavoured to manage them independently. Bathing, brushing teeth, shaving and dressing proved to be monumental tasks. Yet, he refused assistance in doing such chores. He devised ways to stand up and sit down on his own. It was painful watching him go through the motions. He insisted on feeding himself even though he had a mild case of Parkinson’s disease. He refused to be spoon-fed by my mum or my wife. He ate at his own pace, troubling no one, even washing his plate. His philosophy and mantra were simple – he did not want to burden anyone, and this attitude was ingrained in him from young. Even at the age of 93, he was robust, healthy and full of life. He had no known ailments and was never on any prescribed medication. He hardly went to the hospital for check-ups. He never smoked, gave up drinking after a spiritual awakening in his 50s and adopted a healthy lifestyle. After his retirement, the only thing that he did regularly was brisk walking. He walked like Forest Gump, in the mornings and evenings. He did not go to the parks to walk but walked around the neighbourhood where we stayed. He would walk to the post office, the supermarket, the mamak stall, the market, pasar malam and town. After a fall in his 90’s, he walked with the help of a walker. At the age of 93, after two days of admission to the hospital, he passed away. He was frail and thin. The hospital attendants who came to transfer his body from the hospital bed to the wheeled gurney talked about his light weight. Even in death, he was not a burden to anyone, even to the pallbearers. I pray and hope that I too will not be a burden to anyone. Sometimes life presents harsh challenges, making us reliant on our family. Such circumstances are often beyond our control. However, we can control the course of our lives in many instances and determine how life can turn out. This can shape our destiny. So stay safe and healthy. Samuel Yesuiah Seremban LETTERS letters@thesundaily.com Why peace is so elusive in Ukraine NO country in modern history has been subject to the combination of military and non-military action which Russia is experiencing in Ukraine, Europe and elsewhere in the world where various forms of pressure and sanctions have been applied to ensure a Russian military defeat and political capitulation. A first meeting of 41 countries on April 26, 2022, against Russia has since been enlarged to a larger coalition of 54 countries (all 30 member states of Nato (North Atlantic Treaty Organisation) and 24 other countries) at a meeting of countries contributing to Ukraine’s war against Russia held on Feb 14, 2023. All European Union member states, except for Hungary, Cyprus and Malta, have provided military aid individually and collectively. However, this is far from being just a European war. The country that has emerged as the most pro-Ukraine and anti-Russia in the coalition is the US. As the war enters its third year, it is crystal clear that peace in Ukraine can only come should the US want it. And, this may require a Donald Trump presidency to bring Volodymyr Zelensky and Vladimir Putin together for a peace agreement. For now, the Joe Biden administration has provided more than US$44 billion (RM205 billion) in military assistance for Ukraine since the war started. This is more than the next four European countries’ largest contributors combined – Germany, Britain, Norway and Denmark. At the last count, the US has spent more than US$75 billion to ensure that the Zelensky government is kept alive and continues to fight what many observers increasingly view as a proxy war. It is a war that is seen to sacrifice the Ukrainian population as it does not have US troops directly engaged as has happened elsewhere in the recent wars that the US has waged. Biden has repeatedly stated: “We do not seek to have American troops fighting in Russia or fighting against Russia.” The US president has made it clear to Americans and the rest of the world that keeping US troops out of the war, while at the same time deeply engaged, is the American strategy after learning from previous wars. Most US analysts agree that there is no way the American public will support the war if US participation leads to casualties returning to America in body bags as happened in Afghanistan recently. Thus, Biden is counting on Ukrainians to continue to fight the Russians. Hence, extraordinary efforts and sums are being spent by the US to keep the war against Russia going. US involvement runs the full gamut of financing, training and supplying Ukraine’s military, helping it to target the Russian army, sinking Russian ships and blowing up Russian military installations. That the Ukrainian and Crimea civilian population is collateral damage has not been a deterrent to the US war machine. Ukrainian bodies and suffering do not matter in the conduct of US foreign policy. Why the US is playing a leading role in this war on a different continent which some critics say the US has no business in intervening or determining its outcome is due to a combination of factors. The first is that the US has made it a continuation of the Cold War against the Soviet Union. The Cold War dominated the global geopolitical battle for over 50 years. It continues today even after the breakup of the Soviet Union as seen in the US-led Nato policies and actions against Russia. Ukraine has become a new battleground for the US in its desire to maintain global political and military supremacy. In this war, the US and other Western public have been kept ignorant of the fact that it is the US and Nato broken promises that played a key role in Putin’s decision to act in the Crimea region which triggered the war. In a speech at the Munich Security Conference in 2007, Putin accused Western powers of reneging on a pledge not to expand Nato eastwards to the boundaries of Russia. The Joe Biden administration has provided more than US$44 billion (RM205 billion) in military assistance for Ukraine since the war started. – REUTERSPIC ANOTHER TAKE BY LIM TECK GHEE His concern: “What happened to the assurances our Western partners made after the dissolution of the Warsaw Pact?” Despite Putin’s repeated expressions of concern and warning that Russian legitimate interests and security were encroached upon and eroded, Nato has not stopped expanding. Since the fall of the Soviet Union, Nato membership has grown from 17 countries in 1990 to 30 today, and now includes countries which were once part of the Soviet-led Warsaw Pact. In addition to American encouragement of Nato’s anti-Russia policies and expansion to Russia’s borders, the US has also supported “colour revolutions” against Moscow’s neighbours, undermined Russia’s historic relationship with its neighbours and refused to negotiate with Moscow over security policies. The second major reason is that the war is a bonanza for the US armament industry and military contractors. The US Pentagon spent US$13 trillion for its war in Afghanistan, with one-third to onehalf of the total estimated to have gone to military contractors. Five major corporations listed in the US stock exchange – Lockheed Martin, Boeing, General Dynamics, Raytheon and Northrop Grumman – were major beneficiaries in the past and they, and new armament companies, are prospering from the war in Ukraine. The Pentagon will spend much less in Ukraine today since it has roped in the military and financial support of Nato and other allied countries. However, the US armament industry and US military contractors will continue to be the main beneficiaries of the war windfall. During the period 2018 to 2022, the US was estimated to be responsible for 40% of the world armament exports. Other national armament and military contractor beneficiaries of the current Ukraine war include those from France, the UK, Spain, Germany, Italy, Israel, Japan and South Korea. A full list of military aid provided to Ukraine in the last two years is available on Wikipedia. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_ of_military_aid_to_Ukraine_during_t he_Russo-Ukrainian_War) This post also provides details of the military assistance provided by Japan and South Korea, the two Asian nations supporting US foreign policy. A third major reason why the US under Biden wants the Ukraine war to continue is that it sees the war as necessary to cripple the Russo-Sino alliance. On Oct 12, 2023, a bipartisan US Congress panel maintained that Washington must prepare for possible simultaneous wars with Moscow and Beijing by expanding its conventional forces, strengthening alliances and enhancing its weapons modernisation programme. The continuation of the Ukraine war and the eventual defeat of Russia can mean that China, described by Biden as US’s foremost enemy, will be without a key strategic partner in its fight against US policy to take down China. This assumption is subverted if Russia remains undefeated. For now, the opposite has happened as it has strengthened the Russo-Sino alliance to an unprecedented level of solidarity. On the other hand, a Trump victory in November can well see the US embark on an exercise to repair relations with Putin and Russia. Should this happen, it may finally produce the elusive peace that Ukrainians and Russians badly need. Lim Teck Ghee’s Another Take is aimed at demystifying social orthodoxy. Comments: letters@thesundaily.com

BANKING & INSURANCE BANKING & INSURANCE 12 MONDAY | JAN 15, 2024 PETALING JAYA: Boost, a regional financial technology leader, and consortium partner RHB Banking Group have received approval from Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) and the Ministry of Finance (MoF) to commence operations as a digital bank from today. This marks a momentous milestone as the consortium becomes the first primarily Malaysian-owned digital bank to begin operations with a pioneering embedded digital bank app in the local market, designed to address financial inclusion gaps for the underserved and unserved. The Boost-RHB Digital Bank Consortium received regulatory approval ahead of the scheduled timeline, following a thorough operational readiness review validated by BNM. Having successfully demonstrated a robust and resilient foundational infrastructure for the digital bank, now formally known as Boost Bank by Axiata and RHB (Boost Bank), the consortium will advance into the alpha-testing phase involving internal employees, family, friends and a selected group of customers. In the lead-up to the public launch, the digital bank will progressively enhance its product propositions and refine the user experience to pave the way for a new era of embedded finance tailored to meet the diverse needs of all Malaysians. Spearheading the team is Fozia Amanulla, who was recently appointed CEO of Boost Bank. Axiata Group Bhd CEO Vivek Sood said: “Axiata is committed to nurturing a dynamic digital banking ecosystem, from enabling digital wallets for over 10 million Boost customers to introducing more innovative digital banking solutions to the underserved and unserved segments of Malaysian society. Our aim is to broaden the digital banking options available to those with limited access to conventional banking facilities, towards fostering an inclusive digital society for all Malaysians which aligns with Axiata’s vision of becoming the Next Generation Digital Champion. “As we progress on our telco-techco journey, Axiata will continue to focus on its portfolio of assets including digital businesses to accelerate long-term value for our shareholders.” Boost Group CEO Sheyantha Abeykoon said they are appreciative of the regulators’ trust and confidence in their digital bank, and remain committed to upholding the highest standards as they reimagine financial services responsibly through the power of technology and data. “This landmark achievement is a culmination of the symbiotic and strategic partnership between a leading fintech and a successful financial institution with substantial ecosystems, united by a shared vision to drive greater financial inclusion. It is a monumental triumph that underscores the capabilities of our pioneering team, that built the bank from scratch. Our people are at the core of our innovation, and I have every confidence that the team will make our digital bank vision into reality.” Rooted in the fundamental belief that everyone deserves a bright financial future, Fozia said they are determined to propel Malaysia into an age of true financial inclusivity by harnessing the untapped potential of embedded finance with their digital bank. RHB Banking Group managing director cum CEO Mohd Rashid Mohamad said the approval received from BNM and the MoF marks a significant milestone in their joint commitment with Boost to foster a more inclusive financial ecosystem, especially for the underserved businesses and individuals in Malaysia. The Boost-RHB Digital Bank Consortium, in which Boost holds 60% equity and RHB the remaining 40%, was among the five successful licence applicants announced by BNM in April 2022. Boost-RHB gets approval to begin digital bank business oConsortium is the first primarily Malaysian-owned online lender with pioneering embedded app PETALING JAYA: Zurich Malaysia and Senang.io have formed a strategic partnership with Bank Islam Malaysia Bhd to revolutionise the delivery of takaful solutions through the “Be U by Bank Islam” app. The collaboration sets a significant milestone in the banking and takaful industries in providing convenience and flexibility to customers. Through this collaboration, Zurich Malaysia, Senang.io and Bank Islam will unveil “Microtakaful for Gig Workers” which empowers gig workers with comprehensive options, offering on-demand services, medical coverage and a user-friendly in-app claim management platform. These tailor-made takaful services are designed to fit the gig community’s dynamic schedules and individual needs. “We are honoured to be able to embark on this innovative journey as it aligns perfectly with Zurich Malaysia’s mission to ‘Care for What Matters’. As the gig economy continues to grow, it is important that we cater to the protection needs of the participants. Together with our partners, we will create a brighter and more secure future,“ said Zurich General Takaful CEO Shamsul Azman. Senang.io founder and CEO Sharian Raj said their technology platform facilitates the integration of multiple takaful products into a single, user-friendly application, making takaful accessible and straightforward for all users. Senang.io’s state-of-the-art technology platform is pivotal in delivering these groundbreaking takaful solutions. The Be U By Bank Islam app will seamlessly integrate the diverse range of takaful products, ensuring accessibility and simplicity for all users. This fusion of cutting-edge technology and takaful expertise brings unparalleled value to customers, Sharian said. Bank Islam Group chief digital officer Noor Farilla Abdullah said: “The new microtakaful offering, facilitated through OpenAPIs, seamlessly integrates gig work protection within the app, enabling users to conveniently access takaful add-ons and process claims directly through the platform. The inclusion of microtakaful solutions within the app enriches the gig economy, offering peace of mind and financial protection to a vulnerable segment of workers, making it easily accessible in times of unexpected challenges.” Looking ahead, Senang.io and Bank Islam plan to introduce additional takaful products in collaboration with various reputable takaful providers within the next three years. These forthcoming solutions will encompass a wide range of takaful coverage, catering to multiple population segments. From left: Mohd Rashid, Fozia, Sheyantha and Vivek. PolicyStreet receives green light for takaful, retakaful ops PETALING JAYA: PolicyStreet, a regional insurance technology company, has secured approval from Labuan Financial Services Authority to commence its takaful and retakaful operations. The accreditation positions PolicyStreet among the select group of approved takaful and retakaful operators in Malaysia, granting the insurtech company the capability to reinsure and underwrite takaful products, thereby enhancing the competitiveness and variety of takaful offerings available in the region. “We are thrilled to receive the approval for the establishment of the takaful and retakaful window, which opens up new opportunities for us to contribute significantly to narrowing the protection gap in the region,“ said Yen Ming Lee, co-founder and group CEO of PolicyStreet. “Our entry into the takaful market is a testament to our dedication to financial inclusivity and serving the evolving needs of our community. We believe that our venture into the takaful and retakaful arena will not only contribute to the achievement of national insurance penetration targets but will also usher in a new era of insurance solutions tailored to the unique requirements of the takaful market,“ said Yen Ming. According to the Malaysian Takaful Association, the family takaful new business industry recorded an impressive RM10.06 billion in gross contributions, marking an 18.3% increase from RM8.5 billion in 2021. Bank Negara Malaysia’s Financial Sector Blueprint 2022-2026 has set an ambitious target of 4.8% to 5% insurance and takaful penetration rate by 2026, with RAM Rating Services Bhd estimating the current penetration rate at 4.6% insurance, signalling considerable room for expansion within the market and a growing demand for syariahcompliant insurance products. Bank Islam introduces Ihsan Sustainability Investment Account KUALA LUMPUR: Bank Islam Malaysia Bhd has introduced the Ihsan Sustainability Investment Account (ISIA) to deliver positive social and environmental impact through social finance. Simultaneously, ISIA is designed for clients seeking stable short-term investments to navigate the uncertainties often associated with equities and fixed-income investments. Group CEO Datuk Mohd Muazzam Mohamed said ISIA reflects the bank’s commitment to advancing prosperity for all. “Through ISIA, we enable investors to join us in shaping a nature-positive economy by venturing into Islamic finance potentials,” he said in a recent statement. ISIA is available for high-net-worth individuals and non-individual investors with a minimum investment amount of RM50,000 for individuals and RM1 million for non-individuals, respectively. ISIA offers an indicative 4.50% return per annum, where 2.50% portion of the profit will be contributed to Pusat Pungutan Zakat Majlis Agama Islam Wilayah Persekutuan or Bank Islam Sadaqa House. “This is one of the social elements incorporated in this campaign feature. The profit will be distributed semi-annually and within the investment tenure of 24 months,” Mohd Muazzam said. The funds will be invested in a diversified portfolio of the bank’s non-retail assets involving renewable energy, green financing, clean transport, clean water and sanitation and other sectors that contribute to creating sustainable cities and community goals. The bank has established a rigorous oversight framework that involves meticulous processes such as thorough due diligence, comprehensive impact assessment and continuous monitoring of the fund. – Bernama From left: Shamsul, Noor Farilla and Sharian at the announcement of the collaboration. Zurich Malaysia, Senang.io, Bank Islam in takaful tie-up

MONDAY | JAN 15, 2024 Editorial T: 03-7784 6688 F: 03-7785 2624/5 E: sunbiz@thesundaily.com Advertising T: 03-7784 8888 F: 03-7784 4424 SCAN ME E: advertise@thesundaily.com Maybank Investment Bank estimates ringgit undervalued by 6-7% PETALING JAYA: Maybank Investment Bank Bhd’s (Maybank IB) behavioural exchange rate model estimates that the ringgit is undervalued by 6% to 7%. Foreign exchange research head Saktiandi Supaat said the fair value of the ringgit is projected to be in the range of 4.10 to 4.30 in the medium to long term. “We think that the undervaluation of the ringgit and overvaluation of the US dollar could reverse and that could come slowly in 2024,” he said at the Maybank IB 2024 Market Outlook media briefing recently. He said the ringgit suffered the heaviest loss among currencies in the region for the period from early 2023 to October, and it has not recouped much of its losses. “We suggest that any positive factors or variables that drive the ringgit or contribute to its recovery from external factors could potentially lead to a swing in the ringgit, as observed late last year when the dollar softened,“ he added. An angle Saktiandi highlighted is that corporates and individuals continue to hold a high percentage of their cash in foreign currencies, either in dollars or others. “We see a very strong correlation which suggests there’s a bit of currency convertibility. I think a bit of holding of foreign currencies instead of converting to the ringgit story here as well,” he said. Another factor is the slow pace of investment as indicated by both foreign direct investment (FDI) and domestic direct investment (DDI). “We expect FDI and DDI to continue to support the ringgit in 2024. We expect that to happen in 2024,” Saktiandi said. He added that bond flows have been consistently positive for most of 2023. “Malaysian government bonds, in some sense, have played a significant role in providing support for the ringgit,” he said. Meanwhile, equity flows have been quite weak amid poor foreign appetite for Malaysian stocks. Maybank IB expects the ringgit to hover around the 4.60 to 4.70 range in the first quarter of this year and then slowly ease off towards 4.60, 4.50 and the year close to the 4.30 to 4.40 range. █ BY HAYATUN RAZAK sunbiz@thesundaily.com 7-Eleven Malaysia rolls out 7EGoGreen campaign PETALING JAYA: 7-Eleven Malaysia Sdn Bhd, the country’s leading convenience store chain, launched the 7EGoGreen Waste2Life campaign in Kuala Lumpur on Saturday, solidifying its commitment to environmental, social and governance (ESG) initiatives designed to reduce carbon footprint. In collaboration with NGOHub and Alam Flora Environment Solutions (AFES), the oneyear programme, Waste2Life, aims to empower Projek Perumahan Rakyat (PPR) residents by raising awareness, educating and fostering recycling habits through the collection of recyclable items and knowledge-sharing sessions ensuring the residents have access to accurate recycling information. Marketing general manager Chin Hor Wai said, “7EGoGreen Waste2Life initiative extends beyond an environmental campaign; it serves as a platform for the community to delve into proper recycling practices, minimising the environmental impact of waste. At 7-Eleven, we believe that effective climate action begins within our community, and it is our responsibility to raise awareness and empower the community to address the climate impacts. “Through 7EGoGreen, 7-Eleven aspires to bring a positive impact on six United Nation Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG): clean water and sanitation, affordable and clean energy, responsible consumption and production, climate change, life below water and life below land,” she said. NGOHub managing director Chun Wah Hoo said, “I am profoundly committed to fostering a culture of environmental responsibility and sustainable living. The 7EGoGreen Waste2Life campaign, in partnership with 7-Eleven, AFES and the community, is more than just an initiative; it’s a movement towards creating a From right: Jason, Chun, Mohd Noor; Ismi Azura and Syed Redza. oOne-year programme to empower Projek Perumahaan Rakyat communities on collection of recyclable items lasting impact on both our communities and the planet. At NGOhub, we believe that real change starts at the grassroots level.” By educating and engaging with the PPR communities, Chun said, they are not just spreading awareness about recycling but also empowering individuals to become active agents of change in their lives and surroundings. “We are excited to see the transformative effect this campaign will have, not only in reducing waste but also in inspiring a ripple effect of sustainable practices that extend far beyond the duration of the programme. Our commitment to the environment and to the communities we serve is unwavering, and we are proud to be part of an initiative that truly embodies these values,” he added. Its collaborative partner AFES will offer a “buy back” programme, enabling individuals to receive cash incentives for bringing in recycled items. In addition to the cash incentive from AFES, participants are eligible to receive a 7- Eleven goodie bag when recycling 500g and above of recyclable plastic and cardboard. AFES COO Nazar Abdul Raof said, “Our vision as a company is to be the leading environmental solutions player, committed to shaping a greener future through our sustainability best practices. We are delighted to be part of the7EGoGreen Waste2Life campaign and offer our best-in-class recycling services. Aside from collecting and sorting the recyclable items, we will also be leveraging on our experienced team and talents to provide a series of environmental awareness talks where the communities will be enlightened on how recycling can leave a positive impact to the world. We support the government’s call on embracing the innovative approach of circular economy where waste can now be transformed into a type of resource. Rukun Tetangga Community Desa Rejang chairman and Sentul District Unity Squad Leader Mohd Noor Md Tahir said the 7EGoGreen is a good initiative by 7-Eleven that encourages community responsibility in waste management. He added that embracing recycling not only reduces their carbon footprint but also fosters a sense of collective responsibility and hoped to see more programmes like this in the future. Besides Waste2Life, as part of the 7EGoGreen campaign, 7-Eleven has kicked off the Bring Your Own Cup (BYOC) programme where customers will be rewarded with a 5% discount on hot and cold beverages when they bring their own cup to all 7CAFé outlets starting from Jan 15, 2024. The 7EGoGreen launch held at Dewan Terbuka Desa Rejang was also attended by Jason Chandrasekhar, general manager, fresh food & quality assurance of 7-Eleven Malaysia; Syed Redza Algadrie, general manager, store development and assets of 7-Eleven Malaysia; and Ismi Azura Istear Khan, manager recovery and treatment AFES. PETALING JAYA: The financial technology (fintech) landscape in Malaysia is thriving, marked by strong government support and solid financial infrastructure, say experts. However, they said that to sustain and enhance this success, there are specific challenges that require attention and resolution. The Malaysia fintech market is poised for significant growth, according to Mordor Intelligence (market research and consulting firm), with an anticipated expansion in transaction value from RM187.51 billion in 2023 to RM386.40 billion by 2028. This projected increase reflects a compound annual growth rate of 15.56% during the forecast period of 2023 to 2028. Universiti Teknologi Mara senior economics lecturer Dr Mohamad Idham Md Razak said the government’s proactive initiatives, such as the National Fintech Hub and regulatory safe testing grounds, have fostered a favourable environment for innovation and attracted substantial investments, which reached RM6.04 billion in 2022. “However, challenges like talent gap and competition from neighbouring fintech hubs, particularly in Singapore and Indonesia, require strategic attention. “Streamlining regulations and focusing on key sectors like epayments, crowdfunding, and wealth management will be pivotal for Malaysia to differentiate itself and sustain its growth trajectory in the dynamic Southeast Asian fintech landscape,” he remarked.. Malaysian consumers, Mohamad Idham said, are swiftly integrating fintech solutions into their daily lives, with a notable surge in the adoption of mobile payments and digital banking. “Government-driven initiatives such as the National Fintech Hub and e-commerce campaigns have played a pivotal role in encouraging this transition, fostering an environment of innovation and financial inclusion. “The widespread availability of smartphones, coupled with improved internet infrastructure, has made mobile payments and digital banking easily accessible to over 90% of Malaysians. “Features like contactless payments, 24/7 accessibility, and enticing rewards contribute to the appeal of these fintech solutions, providing users with cashless convenience and strong financial management tools,” he said. The future of fintech in Malaysia, Mohamad Idham said, is poised for dynamic growth, driven by a wave of innovations and strategic market expansion. “Anticipate the integration of cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain and big data (data with greater variety, arriving in increasing volumes, and at a faster pace), ushering in a new era of hyper-personalised financial Mohamad Idham █ BY RAVEEN AINGARAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com Muhammad Naim M’sian fintech industry thriving but challenges need attention: Experts solutions and open banking collaborations between fintech startups and traditional institutions. “Market expansion will focus on bridging the digital divide in rural areas, extending microfinance services, empowering small and medium-sized enterprises See page 14

BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE MONDAY | JAN 15, 2024 14 Jaya Grocer bullish on 2024 oOpens outlet in Plaza Shah Alam, its third in Selangor’s capital and 49th in the country PETALING JAYA: Jaya Grocer, a mass premium supermarket brand, heralded the start of 2024 with the opening of its 49th store at Plaza Shah Alam – its third in Selangor’s capital after Plaza Jelutong and Ardence Labs. CEO Adelene Foo said, “We Foo (third from right) presenting Selangor State Exco in charge of Youth, Sports Entrepreneurship Mohd Najwan Halimi with a souvenir. Looking on are (from left) mall owner Evergreen Venues Sdn Bhd directors Stephen Tew and Datuk Seri Meer Sadik Habib, Jaya Grocer deputy CEO Daniel Teng and chief marketing officer Joseph Teoh. Issues linked to companies with presence in Johor draw attention THE second week of the year saw a further boost in structured warrants trading activity. Total turnover last week clocked in at RM478 million, signifying a 40.9% surge from the previous week. The average daily turnover rose 12.7% to RM95.6 million last week, with warrants over the Hang Seng Index (HSI) remaining the most popular among investors, with turnover taking up 61.8% of the overall warrants market. Warrants over YTL Power, UEM Sunrise (UEMS), Ekovest, YTL Corp, Genting and MY E.G. Services (MyEG) drew attention last week. YTLPOWR-C36 and YTLPOWR-C39 saw the highest turnover with respect to warrants over local shares with more than 20 million units traded each. Shares of YTLPOWR continued their winning streak, rising 14.3% week-on-week (w-o-w). On Thursday, the Malaysia and Singapore governments agreed to jointly develop a special economic zone in Johor, causing companies with presence in Johor including UEMS, Ekovest, YTL Corp and YTL Power to draw investors’ attention. Meanwhile, HSI futures continued downtrend with a 1.9% drop w-o-w, following the 3.2% decline in the previous week, as investor sentiments remained gloomy ahead of US inflation numbers and the start of earnings season. Last week, the futures closed in the red for four days, with only a 1.2% gain as a brief respite on Thursday, breaking an eight-day losing streak. With this rise, investors net sold the HSI calls with gains mostly ranging from 20% to 40%. As of Friday evening, among the five top traded warrants listed in the table, HSI-CTE had the highest liquidity, with six million units placed on each of the bid and offer quotes, and are on tight spreads. When selecting a warrant, investors should consider its liquidity as warrants with a higher liquidity allow investors to enter and exit their positions with ease. Elsewhere, the Nikkei 225 Index reached a fresh 34-year peak on Friday as investors look to the potential early exit from the Bank of Japan’s stimulus along with momentum from the start of the new year. Investors may gain leveraged exposure to the Nikkei via call and put warrants listed on Bursa Malaysia. To view the full list of structured warrants available on Bursa Malaysia, visit malaysiawarrants.com.my. Provided for Malaysian residents’ information only. This commentary has not been reviewed by the Securities Commission Malaysia. It is not an offer or recommendation to trade and is not research material. Past performance is not indicative of future performance. You should make your own assessment and seek professional advice. The warrants will not be offered to any US persons. WARRANTS WATCH Top stock warrants by volume traded: Warrant Volume Issuer Exercise Expiry date name (mil) level HSI-CR8 406.3 Kenanga 18,000 28 Feb 2024 HSI-CTD 377.6 Macquarie 17,600 30 Jan 2024 HSI-HSC 336.6 Kenanga 15,000 28 Feb 2024 HSI-CTE 187.2 Macquarie 17,200 28 Feb 2024 HSI-HSO 110.1 Macquarie 13,200 28 Feb 2024 Opportunity to restructure shareholdings without CGT CAPITAL Gains Tax (CGT) has been implemented effective Jan 1, 2024 for companies, limited liability partnerships (LLP), trust bodies and cooperative societies on the disposal of unlisted shares of Malaysian incorporated companies. However, the Ministry of Finance recently issued a gazette order exempting such gains from CGT until Feb 29, 2024. This provides a golden opportunity for companies to restructure their shareholdings. Effectively, this allows them to restructure their shareholdings without incurring capital gains tax. For companies, LLP, trust bodies and cooperative societies which are disposing of shares of an unlisted real property company (i.e. company mainly holding real estate/real properties), such gains will no longer be subject to Real Property Gains Tax (RPGT) from Jan 1, 2024 onwards as they will be subject to CGT. However, this exemption allows the sale of such real property company shares to be exempt from both CGT and RPGT until Feb 29, 2024. From March 1, 2024, the CGT rate will be 10% of the chargeable gain from the disposal of the unlisted shares if they are acquired after Jan 1, 2024. If the unlisted shares were acquired before Jan 1, 2024, then there is an option of paying CGT at either 2% of the gross disposal price or 10% of the chargeable gain. The coverage of CGT Effective Jan 1, 2024 onwards, CGT applies on the following capital gains: a) Shares of a company incorporated in Malaysia not listed on the stock exchange. b) Shares of a controlled company incorporated outside Malaysia which owns real property situated in Malaysia or shares of another controlled company or both, subject to certain conditions c) Capital gains from disposal of all foreign capital assets which are remitted into Malaysia. The exemption mentioned above will be confined to the shares in category (a) above. Other exemptions announced The finance minister announced during the tabling of Budget 2024 in October last year that CGT exemption would be extended for the disposal of shares for internal restructuring of shares within the same group of companies, any initial public offering approved by Bursa Malaysia and venture capital companies. However, there are still no gazette orders issued by the ministry yet to provide further details on how these CGT exemptions will work. Issues to consider when transferring or disposing of shares Although taxpayers will be exempted from CGT during the disposal period, there are still other potential tax implications that they need to be aware of before making such transfers, such as stamp duty, income tax, withholding taxes, transfer pricing issues and indirect taxes. Tax savings should not be the only matter to consider when transferring shares. Taxpayers also need to consider the potential impact the share transfer will have on the respective shareholders. An example could be the dilution of their interests. Taxpayers also need to consider the post-transfer consequential effect from the transfer of shares, such as how monies flow back to shareholders. Time is running out There is only 1½ months left to complete any restructuring. There is no time to waste as there will be other related issues you would need to examine, such as stamp duty, income tax issues, and possibly indirect tax issues which may take time to come up with the optimum restructuring plan. This article is contributed by Thannees Tax Consulting Services Sdn Bhd managing director SM Thanneermalai (www.thannees.com). opened the first store back in 2007 in Selangor and it’s particularly meaningful that, after almost 17 years, we’re opening our 49th store in the Selangor state capital.” She said the first outlet at Plaza Jelutong in Shah Alam was opened on Sept 29, 2012 and the second outlet at Ardence Labs. “With three outlets in Shah Alam, our customers will find shopping with us much more convenient than ever,” she said at the opening of the store on Saturday. With this auspicious start to the new year, she said, Jaya Grocer’s network expansion plans are on track and it looks forward to a better year in 2024. “We expect this year to be better in tandem with the higher economic growth forecast by most research houses,” she said, adding that Rating Agency of Malaysia has projected Malaysia’s 2024 gross domestic product to grow by 4.5% to 5.5%, up from the estimated growth rate of 4% in 2023. “With our three outlets in this city strategically positioned, our customers in Shah Alam can enjoy even greater accessibility to our premium range of products, reinforcing our commitment to serving the community more efficiently,” she added. To reward customers in Shah Alam, Jaya Grocer is offering promotion deals from Jan 13 to 21 that includes special discounts on a variety of essential items such as vegetables, poultry, and meat, as well as enticing offers on imported snacks and cat food. (SME) with streamlined digital tools, and fostering cross-border partnerships for regional financial integration,” he added.. Universiti Malaysia Pahang senior mathematics and computer science lecturer Dr Ku Muhammad Naim Ku Khalif said despite his supportive stance on fintech, Malaysia grapples with regulatory challenges that can potentially impede the sector’s growth. “A delicate balance is needed to keep pace with rapidly evolving innovations without compromising consumer protection and financial stability. “Regulatory fragmentation, stemming from multiple entities and overlapping regulations, introduces complexities and uncertainties for fintech companies,” he added. Furthermore, Muhammad Naim said addressing financial inclusion requires a meticulous approach to ensure fair access, especially in rural areas with connectivity challenges. “While the government is taking positive steps to streamline regulations and enhance coordination, continuous efforts are crucial to refine the regulatory landscape, foster innovation, and fortify Malaysia’s position as a prominent fintech hub in Southeast Asia,” he added. Even with the thriving fintech landscape in Malaysia, Muhammad Naim said not all segments of the population are benefiting equally from the innovations. “Tech-savvy urban adults and young entrepreneurs readily embrace mobile payments and digital banking, while fintech solutions like crowdfunding cater to the financial needs of businesses. “However, challenges persist for certain groups, such as the digitally unversed elderly, rural populations facing internet connectivity issues, and low-income individuals encountering barriers like high smartphone costs. “Bridging this gap requires targeted financial inclusion initiatives, simplified interfaces, and collaborations with community organisations to ensure equitable access and empower all Malaysians,” said Muhammad Naim. ‘Regulatory challenges can potentially impede growth’ From page 13

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Box 179, Jalan Sultan, 46720 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan Attn: Subscription Email: subscribe@thesundaily.com *Terms & Conditions apply Important note: SMCSB reserves the right to revise the price at any time without prior notice. (*Limited to ffrst 1,000 subscribers) Pay to Maybank ( Account number 508177700420 ) Account name ( SUN MEDIA CORPORATION SDN BHD ) Nov 8 to Nov 10 Malaysian Paper www.thesun.my RM1 WEDNESDAY NOV 8, 2023 No. 8389 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195) SCAN ME Casino chip heist: Five more identified Police have detained a total of 10 suspects, including a Chinese national, in connection with the RM4.6m theft at Genting Highlands on Oct 28. Congratulations! You are holding the first edition A new sunrise of our new 32-page paper featuring more of the great content you have loved for the past 30 years. Copies will be free until Friday and will be available via subscription and at newsstands beginning Monday for only RM1. Muruku Buntong entrepreneur’s Deepavali snack, made from a still a national favourite 60-year-old recipe, is constantly in high demand. Chicken price float benefits consumers A week after subsidies ended, market prices are competitive and lower than subsidised prices, says expert. Full report —on page 3 Full report —on page 6 Full report —on page 4 Citing protection of country’s interests in terms of diplomatic, economic relations and security as reasons for joining meeting, Anwar says he remains steadfast in defending justice and rights of Palestinians. I will show up at Apec Story on page 2 Full story -on page 2 SCAN TO SUBSCRIBE NEW YEAR resolutions are not only for people but also for businesses. After a tumultuous year of both opportunities and challenges, many companies eagerly bid goodbye to 2023 and moved forward to a hopefully brighter year. Starting a new year allows us time to reflect, learn and evolve to make 2024 a more rewarding year for you and your company. What is important is that we take what we learnt from 2023 and apply them to challenges we may face in 2024. Below are lessons we share with our independent distributors around the world to help them thrive and grow their businesses. Stay positive and nimble Despite the challenges of the last few years, there are still reasons to be optimistic. Many small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Malaysia have found ways to innovate to keep their business going and growing, so there is no reason that growth cannot continue into the new year. In fact, for the first half of 2023, the SME Sentiment Index survey by SME Bank recorded a positive reading. Being confident about the future is a powerful way to approach a new year and radiate that optimism to your team and clients. Remember what worked A great way to start the new year is by reflecting on what worked well last year. Did you find a way to cut costs or streamline your processes? Did you improve client services with added technology solutions? Perhaps you found new, innovative ways to connect more with customers. Some business owners report finding more profound connections with their clients as they shared more personal information about how they navigated recent challenges. Continue to build on what worked to grow your business. Resolve to plan Many entrepreneurs start their businesses to escape the roadblocks of large companies. Along with the freedom to be one’s own boss, there is often a desire to free themselves of endless planning sessions. However, every business, large or small, benefits from a plan. Take time in the new year to write down goals for your business in 2024 as well as tangible actions you’ll take to achieve those goals. Write down what resources you will need to meet your objectives and create a timeline. Then when completed, share it with your team and do not just close the document, but review it quarterly to see where you are meeting or missing your goals. Find new opportunities As the adage goes, “when one door closes, another opens”. Although things may seem challenging at times, remember we are making progress on all fronts, and sometimes just progress, however small, can be enough. In the new year, entrepreneurs can continue to find new ways to conduct their business. Ask yourself what your customers need from you and how you can best deliver that product, information or service. As providers of nutritional and wellness products, we know that consumers worldwide are seeking healthy solutions now more than ever. Our independent distributors host online webinars, outdoor exercise sessions and provide valuable health information via emails and newsletters. Write notes of positivity When was the last time you thanked the clients and suppliers in your life who have supported your business? The start of a new year is a perfect time to check in with them and thank them for their support. Ask them to share with you their goals for the new year and ask how you can best help them. Think about how you would feel if you received a personal – ideally handwritten – letter from a company. Being a small business owner allows you to connect with the people you do business with directly. You are taking the time to check in with them positively to deepen the relationship. There is something extraordinary about starting a new year. We have the chance to begin again on a fresh footing. We can learn from our mistakes and remember our achievements. The most successful entrepreneurs are constantly innovating, finding new ways to build connections with clients and provide superior service. The new year is a time to take charge of our future with optimism. This article is contributed by Steven Chin, senior director/general manager of Herbalife Malaysia and Singapore Eonmetall unit gets RM30m compensation for Klang land KUALA LUMPUR: Eonmetall Group Bhd’s wholly owned subsidiary Eonmetall Land Sdn Bhd (ELSB) has received a notice of award and offer for compensation from the district and land office of Klang invoking compulsory acquisition of 0.9ha of industrial land for RM30.41 million. In a filing with Bursa Malaysia, the group said the affected land formed part of a larger 287.7ha land area in Kapar, Selangor, which is currently vacant and held for development. It said the land was purchased by ELSB in 2019, with the original investment cost of RM57.18 million. “The compulsory disposal resulted from the receipt of the notice to take possession of the affected land under Section 18 of Land Acquisition Act, 1960,” it said. Eonmetall said the consideration amount was made during the land hearing held on Nov 28, based on facts presented by representatives from ELSB and other relevant parties. “The final amount awarded was subjected to the acceptance of the notice without any objection by both Eonmetall Land and other relevant parties on Jan 11, 2024.” The group said the RM28.5 million gain from the compulsory disposal would be used for future business expansion, working capital and debt repayment. – Bernama How small businesses can grow and thrive in 2024 oImportant to apply 2023 lessons to this year’s challenges

BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE MONDAY | JAN 15, 2024 16 @thesundaily FOLLOW ON Malaysian Paper INSTAGRAM BYD in talks with Sigma on supply deal BEIJING: Chinese electric car maker BYD has held talks with Brazil’s Sigma Lithium over a possible supply agreement, joint venture or acquisition, the Financial Times reported yesterday. Company officials met Sigma chief executive Ana Cabral Gardner in Sao Paulo last month, BYD Brazilian chairman Alexandre Baldy told the newspaper, but did not give details, citing a confidentiality agreement. BYD and Sigma did not immediately respond to Reuters requests for comment. Sigma said earlier this month it had initiated a primary listing of Sigma Brazil on Nasdaq and the Singapore stock exchange. BYD, backed by Warren Buffet’s Berkshire Hathaway, said in July it would invest three billion reais (RM2.8 billion) in a new industrial complex in northeastern Brazil, with operations expected to start in mid-2024. – Reuters S. Korea to fine two global banks SEOUL: South Korea’s financial regulator said yesterday it plans to impose penalties on two unnamed global investment banks it is investigating. The Financial Services Commission said it found two global investment banks were engaged in the practice of naked short-selling transactions, which involves selling shares without borrowing them first. The commission did not identify their names. South Korea has been widening a probe into global investment banks to weed out illegal short-sellers from the local stock market after it imposed a full ban on short-selling from November to June this year. Last month, it said it would fine two unnamed global investment banks and one local brokerage 26.5 billion won (RM94 million) in total for naked short-selling. – Reuters India reduces import of Russian oil NEW DELHI: Indian purchases of Russian crude in defiance of Western pressure over the Ukraine war have fallen to an 11-month low as the price tag on the discounted oil rises, figures show. Since the invasion of Ukraine nearly two years ago, India has bought hundreds of millions of barrels of cut-price Russian crude, saving itself billions of dollars while bolstering Moscow’s war coffers. The purchases have catapulted it to second place among Russia’s customers behind China, and Indian officials have made no secret of their decision to prioritise national interest over international sanctions against Moscow. But the price of Russian crude has risen in the face of Opec+ production cuts and increased demand from China, analysts say, making it less attractive to Indian customers. Indian refiners bought 1.45 million barrels per day of Russian oil last month, their lowest amount since last January and down nearly 16% from November, according to global energy trade intelligence platform Kpler. The “interplay between India and China” was a key driver of the change, Kpler lead crude analyst Viktor Katona said, “as both countries now vie for the same barrels”. The biggest beneficiary of the change is Moscow: Russian crude has been trading above US$85 per barrel, reports say, even though a coalition of the G7, EU and Australia imposed a US$60 price cap a year ago. New Delhi’s reduced imports will be welcomed by some European policymakers who have raised concerns over how Indian refiners have processed Russian crude into fuel for the European market, effectively bypassing the EU’s sanctions. New Delhi and Moscow have ties dating back to the Cold War, and Russia remains by far the biggest arms supplier to the world’s most populous country. India has shied away from explicit condemnations of Russia over its invasion of Ukraine, even as it pursues greater security ties with An oil tanker train passing near a refinery operated by Indian Oil Corporation in the city of Guwahati. – AFPPIC oCrude prices rise in face of Opec+ cuts and increased China demand the United States. But instead of following in the West’s footsteps, it has doubled down on its historical partnership with Russia to secure cheap energy, to help it boost growth without running up its fiscal deficit. Russia has become India’s top oil supplier, overtaking the traditional heavyweight Middle Eastern exporters, and remains so by a distance despite the recent falls. India is the world’s third-largest importer and consumer of oil, and imports nearly 80% of its needs. In the 10 months after Russia invaded Ukraine, India saved US$3.6 billion by importing heavily discounted crude from Russia, according to data presented by a ruling party lawmaker in Parliament. The country’s imports of Russian crude peaked in June last year at nearly two million barrels per day, but have steadily shrunk since. Government officials say the change is purely pragmatic and price-driven, rather than political. “If they don’t offer us a discount, why would we buy from them,” Indian Oil Minister Hardeep Singh Puri told reporters last week. “India’s leadership has only one requirement: that the Indian consumer gets the energy at the most economical price, without disruption.” Indian refineries paid an average US$85.90 a barrel for Russian crude in November, according to a Bloomberg analysis of government data, just above the US$85.70 offered by Iraq, and over US$25 higher than the G7’s price cap. Moscow is itself looking to shore up its oil revenues. In May, Russian Finance Minister Anton Siluanov blamed “all these discounts” for a 50% fall in its energy revenues. Yale professor Jeffrey Sonnenfeld, who has advised the US Treasury on the price caps, told AFP there had been some “reduction in the efficacy of the price cap”, but said it was still driving up Moscow’s shipping and insurance costs. Indian officials admit there have been logistical challenges. New Delhi and other customers of Russian oil prefer to avoid paying for it in US dollars as doing so could open them to secondary sanctions. Last month, state-run Indian Oil Corporation agreed to buy Sokol-grade oil from the Russian Pacific island of Sakhalin in UAE dirhams, an Indian government official told AFP. But the deal ultimately did not go through because the Russian oil supplier was unable to open a UAE bank account to accept the currency, he said. The shipment changed destination on the high seas and now appears to be en route to a Chinese refiner, according to an assessment by energy trade platform Vortexa. China remains Moscow’s biggest oil customer and tracking data from Kpler shows that over the last two months, 10 tankers of Sokol cargoes that were headed for Indian destinations either changed course or idled abruptly. But Hardeep insisted payment problems were not driving the import drop, saying: “It is a pure function of the price at which our refineries will buy.” – AFP

BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE MONDAY | JAN 15, 2024 17 Business trumps politics for China companies oHundreds of Chinese exhibitors at CES gadget extravaganza in Las Vegas LAS VEGAS: Xiaoyu Fan smiled as she looked around a bustling China Pavilion at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) last week as gadgets like bladeless fans were displayed and deals were being made. Hundreds of Chinese companies were at the annual CES gadget extravaganza, shrugging off US-China political trade tensions and focusing on taking care of business. “I believe all the people in each country are very good, the civilisation of each country is very nice, very friendly,” said Fan, who was with the Zhejiang Crossbow Brand Electric Appliance Company from Wuyi, China. “We don’t care about the governments; that’s not our business,” she added, a necklace around her neck spelling out the word “peace”. About 500 of the 3,500 or so exhibitors at CES are from China, more than last year but still not at pre-Covid numbers, according to the Consumer Technology Association that runs CES. “The Chinese are back,” association president Gary Shapiro said in the lead-up to the Las Vegas show that ended last Friday. Chinese titans like TCL and Hisense dazzled CES goers with stunning televisions while less well-known companies showed off robots, drones, electronic bikes, charging cables and much more. TCL’s partnership with the US National Football League was the main theme at a CES press event, complete with appearances by sports legends. “They certainly seemed like a red-blooded American company that drinks beer and watches football,” said Techsponential analyst Avi Greengart. Chinese business leaders at CES included Appotronics chief executive Li Yi, whose company specialises in laser display technology used by major companies including car makers BMW and BYD. To Li, it seemed tension between the US and China on the trade front was beginning to stabilise, and that the issue was more a battle over high technology than the type of consumer tech packing CES. “For Chinese brands, being in the US is tough in today’s climate,” Li acknowledged to AFP. “But there is also an emerging opportunity; components technology companies are starting to see this as a chance to emerge.” Chinese companies at CES played up innovation, wanting their country to be seen as a technology leader rather than just a place where things can be made cheaply. “People typically think we are a manufacturing powerhouse, and then people think we are copycats,” Li said of attitudes towards Chinese entrepreneurs. “There are still probably people doing that, but more companies like us are trying to be innovative; we really don’t want to reinvent the wheel and sell it at a lower price.” Futurum Group research director Olivier Blanchard saw advanced computer chips used for artificial intelligence as the heart of trade friction between the US and China. That technology is a far cry from what is used in the cornucopia of AI-infused gadgets at CES from pet trackers to smart beds, baby bottles and electric bicycles. “The whole US versus China thing takes a very distant backseat to the dialogue that happens at CES,” Blanchard said. “Whether you’re from China or from anywhere else, if you have a good product you’re gonna find the market.” Despite political tensions between America and China in regard to AI, national security and Taiwan, it would be unwise to decouple the two economies since they benefit so much from each other, according to Blanchard. “I love the fact that they keep coming here every year, whether they’re from China or anywhere else, and they keep trying. “It’s this weird churning layer of startups that are all competing to become the next big thing.”– AFP People walking past the Made-In-China.com booth at the CES in Las Vegas. – AFPPIC US lawmakers agree on stopgap funding Bill WASHINGTON: US Congress leaders have agreed on a two-tranche stopgap spending Bill to keep the federal government funded into March and avert a partial government shutdown starting this week, a source familiar with the measure told Reuters. Politico, CNN and Punchbowl first reported that congressional leaders had agreed on what is called a “continuing resolution” or “CR,“ that would fund the government – extending two deadlines through March 1 and March 8. A spokesman for Senate Democratic Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said a text of the spending deal is expected to be posted online early today. A second source, speaking on condition of anonymity, told Reuters the earlier reports were accurate. Funding expires on Jan 19 for some federal agencies, including the Department of Transportation, while others like the Defence Department face a Feb 2 deadline. The top Democrat and Republican in Congress reached a US$1.59 trillion (RM7.4 trillion) deal on Jan 7 to fund the government through the current fiscal year, but if they fail to pass it by Jan 19, parts of the federal government would begin to shut down. Some lawmakers have said a short-term funding bill was needed to allow bipartisan negotiators from the House and Senate time to agree on full-year fiscal 2024 spending bills and for Congress to enact the legislation. Last Thursday, Schumer took the first procedural step to pass a stopgap funding bill through the Senate early this week to give lawmakers more time to pass the full-year bill. The US came close to a partial government shutdown last autumn amid opposition by the hardline House Republicans who ousted former speaker Kevin McCarthy over reaching a bipartisan stopgap spending deal with Schumer. – Reuters Alaska Airlines begins inspections on 20 planes WASHINGTON: Alaska Airlines said it has begun preliminary inspections on some of its Boeing 737-9 MAX aircraft this weekend, adding that up to 20 planes could undergo inspection. In a statement, the carrier also said it would initiate and enhance its own layers of quality control to the production of the airplane and has initiated a review of Boeing’s production quality and control systems, including Boeing’s production vendor oversight. Alaska Airlines said it engaged in a candid conversation with Boeing’s CEO and leadership team earlier last week to discuss their quality improvement plans to ensure the delivery of the highest quality aircraft off the production line for the company. The airline said the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) will require more data from Boeing before it approves the airline manufacturer’s proposed inspections and the maintenance instructions used to conduct the final inspections to safely return the 737-9 Max to service. Last Friday, the FAA extended the grounding of Boeing 737 Max 9 airplanes indefinitely for new safety checks and announced it will tighten oversight of Boeing itself after a cabin panel broke off a new jet in mid-flight. Under more stringent supervision, the regulator will audit the Boeing 737 Max 9 production line and suppliers and consider having an independent entity take over from Boeing certain aspects of certifying the safety of new aircraft that the FAA previously assigned to the planemaker. – Reuters

BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE MONDAY | JAN 15, 2024 18 /thesuntelegram FOLLOW ON TELEGRAM Malaysian Paper Cubans fear worsening inflation amid fuel crisis oNation of 11 million experiencing its deepest downturn since Soviet collapse HAVANA: Already under the yoke of inflation and product scarcity, many Cubans do not know how they will cope with a new 500% surge in the fuel price. The communist island’s cash-strapped government announced the five-fold increase last week with effect from Feb 1, as part of a series of measures seeking to cut its budget deficit. The cost of a litre of regular gasoline will rise from 25 pesos (RM0.93) to 132 pesos, while the price of premium gasoline will jump from 30 pesos to 156 pesos, it said. To buy ten litres of fuel for his motorbike – enough for a week – Domingo Wong told AFP he would now have to fork over half his monthly salary of about 500 pesos (RM98). “Ten litres is what I use in a week without doing anything special, just the daily: going to work, bringing my daughter to school, visiting my sister,” the 57-year-old building guard said as he waited patiently in line to fill up his bike. State-owned companies and private carriers will be able to buy fuel “at wholesale prices,” which will increase by 50%, Transport Minister Eduardo Rodriguez said. He added that most public transport fares will maintain “their current prices”, but announced major increases in domestic airline tickets and inter-province bus fares. The nation of 11 million people is experiencing its worst economic crisis since the collapse of the Soviet Union bloc in the 1990s due to consequences of the coronavirus pandemic, the tightening of American sanctions in recent years and structural weaknesses in the economy. According to official estimates, the Cuban economy shrank by 2% last year, while inflation reached 30%. Independent experts say this is likely an under-estimation. Fuel and other basics are already hard to come by. Cuba’s government, which subsidises almost all essential goods and services, already intimated last month it would have to increase fuel prices. “The country cannot maintain the price of fuel, which is the cheapest in the world,” said Economy Minister Alejandro Gil. The government last week also confirmed a 25% rise in the price of electricity for major residential consumers as well as an increase in the price of natural gas. Many Cubans now fear even worse inflation. “Prices in general will increase because even the food we eat depends on transport,” motorbike taxi driver Rafael Olivier, 21, told AFP in Havana. Javier Vega, a 33-year-old driver for a ride-hailing company, said he feared the effect on trip prices in a country where public transport is already limited due to a shortage of fuel and car parts. Energy Minister Vicente de la O Levy said the price hike was exactly meant to curb shortages, “to buy fuel” and have “a stable supply”. Authorities also announced tourists will now pay for fuel in foreign currency, also in short supply, and said the Central Bank was considering adjusting the exchange rate against the dollar. The peso has been devalued twice since 2021. Economist Omar Everleny Perez said fuel may be cheap in Cuba compared to the rest of the world “but if you compare it with salaries in the country, it is very expensive”. “Our purchasing power is not enough, it will affect all of us,” said independent worker Juan Antonio Cruzata, 59. The average Cuban salary is the equivalent of about US$40 (RM186) per month. – AFP A man filling up a jerry can at a gas station in Havana. – REUTERSPIC Ghana secures deal with creditors ACCRA: Ghana has reached an agreement with external creditors for a debt restructuring that was key to its US$3 billion (RM14 billion) credit line with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the government and the lender said. Facing its worst economic crisis in decades, Ghana agreed to a loan from IMF to help shore up its public finances and better manage its heavy debt load. Ghana’s economic outlook will be a major part of campaigning for the presidential election in December when President Nana Akufo-Addo’s New Patriotic Party will seek an unprecedented third term in office. Ghana received its first US$600 million tranche of the IMF loan in May last year. The external debt deal helps clear the way for approval of another US$600 million payment. “This development constitutes a significant positive step towards restoring Ghana’s long-term debt sustainability,“ a Finance Ministry statement said. Last year, Ghana successfully carried out a restructuring of its domestic debt. Ghana suspended payments on the majority of its external debt, essentially defaulting due to challenges in addressing its substantial balance of payments deficit. The restructuring parameters encompass both bilateral and commercial debt, including Eurobonds. IMF managing director Kristalina Georgieva welcomed Ghana reaching “an agreement in principle with their official creditors on a debt treatment, consistent with the objectives of the IMF-supported programme, which aims to restore macroeconomic stability and debt sustainability”. She said the deal “clears the path for IMF executive board consideration” of the first review of Ghana’s three-year agreement “in the next few days”. – AFP Bitcoin a dud in El Salvador SAN SALVADOR: Hardly anyone used bitcoin last year in El Salvador, the first country anywhere to make the cryptocurrency a form of legal tender, said a poll released last week. The government of President Nayib Bukele took this pioneering step in 2021, introducing bitcoin in circulation alongside the US dollar, which replaced the Salvadoran colon in 2001. The goal was to make remittances – they account for a quarter of GDP here – cheaper to send and to get Salvadorans to open bank accounts, which 70% of the population lacked. However a poll by Central American University found that 85% of people questioned did not use bitcoin to pay for a good or service last year, and 3% have never ever used the currency. The poll was carried out from Dec 9 to 22 among 1,280 people and had a margin of error of 2.7%. A total of 77.8% of those questioned said that with bitcoin as legal tender their family financial situation has remained unchanged. The government has said it has bought 2,381 bitcoin, without specifying what it paid. – AFP

BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE MONDAY | JAN 15, 2024 19 Participation 28.9 44.3 26.8 100.0 Retail Institutions Foreign Bought RM m 817.0 1259.7 758.5 2835.2 Sold RM m 820.3 1255.0 759.9 2835.2 Net RM m -3.3 4.7 -1.4 0.0 % Preliminary stats (excluding trade amendments). For final data, please refer to www.bursamalaysia.com Source: Bursa Malaysia A Participating Organisation of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad A Trading Participant of Bursa Malaysia Derivatives Berhad S E C U R I T I E S S D N. B H D. 197201001092 (12738-U) 12/1/2024 STOCKS CLOSING (RM) +/- (RM) VOLUME (’00) RAPID 9.33 -2.17 14,528 IMASPRO 1.6 -0.39 73,243 SIMEPLT 4.31 -0.11 36,391 HEIM 24.1 -0.1 1,055 TENAGA 10.34 -0.1 41,352 MAGNA 0.665 -0.095 17,391 PGF-PA 0.565 -0.095 1,036 HLBANK 18.82 -0.08 7,503 HARTA 2.85 -0.07 62,362 HLCAP 4.46 -0.07 7,339 INFOM 1.67 -0.07 9,657 COASTAL 1.73 -0.06 70 TEOSENG 1.82 -0.06 12,551 WASCO 1.01 -0.06 14,485 ASIABRN 0.5 -0.055 1,101 SIGN 0.86 -0.055 3,562 TURBO 0.625 -0.055 1 APEX 1.12 -0.05 150 BIPORT 5.55 -0.05 94 FGV 1.36 -0.05 15,377 STOCKS CLOSING (RM) +/- (RM) VOLUME (’00) UTDPLT 18.88 +0.360 4,220 YTLPOWR 3.68 +0.310 715,353 YTLPOWR-C33 1.35 +0.230 13,067 YTLPOWR-C31 0.795 +0.215 498 ALLIANZ 19.48 +0.200 450 AMWAY 6.4 +0.200 798 F&N 28.8 +0.160 354 YTLPOWR-C38 0.73 +0.155 30,850 CVIEW 1.24 +0.140 960 YTL-C66 1.02 +0.140 1,727 YTLPOWR-C26 1.22 +0.140 1,885 YTLPOWR-C30 1.18 +0.140 132 HIBISCS 2.71 +0.130 80,434 SBAGAN 4.54 +0.130 1,740 YTLPOWR-C27 0.875 +0.125 2 YTLPOWR-C36 0.575 +0.125 38,132 BKAWAN 20.8 +0.120 49 GESHEN 1.52 +0.120 16,374 KLUANG 4.4 +0.120 488 PLENITU 1.5 +0.120 1,808 STOCKS CLOSING (RM) +/-(RM) +/-(%) VOLUME MINETEC 0.195 -0.025 -11.36 1,856,734 EKOVEST 0.59 +0.045 +8.26 1,413,151 HONGSENG 0.015 -0.005 -25.00 1,102,276 MINETEC-PA 0.09 -0.03 -25.00 953,061 YTLPOWR 3.68 +0.310 +9.20 715,353 WIDAD 0.49 - - 698,582 SCIB 1.16 +0.040 +3.57 614,327 TWL 0.04 - - 555,046 YTL 2.36 +0.120 +5.36 530,658 LEFORM 0.49 +0.005 +1.03 524,148 UEMS 0.98 +0.030 +3.16 510,629 IWCITY 0.9 +0.025 +2.86 509,740 E&O 0.77 +0.020 +2.67 495,506 SCABLE 0.33 +0.025 +8.20 478,868 HSI-CTD 0.03 - - 444,613 ASDION 0.11 -0.005 -4.35 371,087 HSI-CR8 0.14 -0.01 -6.67 363,739 MYEG 0.78 -0.01 -1.27 350,823 MESTRON 0.465 -0.01 -2.11 348,841 BIOHLDG-WR 0.005 - - 346,000 SUNBIZ presents a summary of the day’s trading activity on Bursa Malaysia and other markets in an easy to digest format. MARKET ROUND-UP: JANUARY 12 [ Sources: Bursa Malaysia, Bernama, shareinvestor.com and websites DISCLAIMER: The data and reports are provided as a service to investors. Sun Media Corporation Sdn Bhd shall not be liable or responsible for any consequences resulting from usage of the information. INDEX CHANGE FBMEMAS 11,116.80 +33.68 FBMKLCI 1,487.34 +4.34 CONSUMER PRODUCTS 562.08 +1.14 INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTS 175.85 +0.82 CONSTRUCTION 208.51 +2.15 FINANCIAL SERVICES 16,550.00 +13.38 ENERGY 865.71 +3.09 TELECOMMUNICATIONS 579.46 +2.27 HEALTH CARE 1,966.10 -12.90 TRANSPORTATION 955.84 +1.13 PROPERTY 892.79 +4.65 PLANTATION 7,101.93 -28.60 FBMSHA 11,248.90 +11.63 FBMACE 5,381.43 -33.10 TECHNOLOGY 63.99 -0.22 TURNOVER: 4.075 bil VALUE: RM2.835 bil Top 20 Actives Top 20 Gainers (By RM) Top 20 Losers (By RM) Bursa Indices STOCKS CLOSING (RM) +/- (%) VOLUME (’00) BTM-WB 0.01 +100.00 161 FITTERS-WC 0.01 +100.00 12,556 MTRONIC-WB 0.01 +100.00 255 SPSETIA-C74 0.025 +66.67 2 EDGENTA-CN 0.075 +50.00 8,889 HIBISCS-C50 0.03 +50.00 70 HIBISCS-C55 0.03 +50.00 600 EKOVEST-C44 0.05 +42.86 81,898 EKOVEST-C42 0.085 +41.67 14,701 INARI-C2E 0.085 +41.67 2,050 HIBISCS-C53 0.11 +37.50 730 YTLPOWR-C31 0.795 +37.07 498 APPASIA-WB 0.02 +33.33 76 EKOVEST-C41 0.145 +31.82 47,152 EKOVEST-C45 0.065 +30.00 20,712 EKOVEST-C39 0.135 +28.57 186,826 EKOVEST-C43 0.18 +28.57 22,140 UEMS-C92 0.09 +28.57 114,854 YTLPOWR-C35 0.505 +27.85 3,780 YTLPOWR-C36 0.575 +27.78 38,132 Top 20 Gainers (By %) STOCKS CLOSING (RM) +/- (%) VOLUME (’00) PENTA-C37 0.025 -66.67 2,000 ASTRO-C56 0.005 -50.00 500 DNEX-C24 0.005 -50.00 10,000 EITA-WA 0.005 -50.00 34,227 HSI-CTN 0.005 -50.00 100 JFTECH-CA 0.01 -50.00 100 LAMBO-WC 0.005 -50.00 16,681 PHB 0.005 -50.00 2,430 VS-WB 0.005 -50.00 323,477 JDCOM-C19 0.02 -42.86 27 SPSETIA-C73 0.02 -42.86 23,001 AXIATA-C95 0.01 -33.33 12,419 BIOHLDG-PA 0.01 -33.33 116 COMPUGT 0.01 -33.33 80 DNEX-C21 0.01 -33.33 90 SENHENG-CG 0.01 -33.33 5,300 SPSETIA-C72 0.02 -33.33 29,921 VELESTO-WA 0.01 -33.33 21,281 EVD-PA 0.04 -27.27 15,635 AEON-C22 0.015 -25.00 2,150 Top 20 Losers (By %) INDEX CLOSING DAILY DAILY CHANGE CHANGE (%) DJIA (US) 37,592.98 -118.04 -0.31 S&P 500 (US) 4,783.83 +3.59 +0.08 NASDAQ (US) 14,972.76 +2.58 +0.02 NYSE (US) 16,799.54 +18.42 +0.11 EURO STOXX 50 (EUR) 4,480.02 +37.74 +0.85 FTSE 100 (UK) 7,624.93 +48.34 +0.64 DAX (GER) 16,704.56 +157.53 +0.95 MSCI ASIA PACIFIC 167.54 +0.99 +0.59 NIKKEI 225 (JPN) 35,577.11 +527.25 +1.50 TOPIX (JPN) 2,494.23 +11.36 +0.46 HANG SENG INDEX (HK) 16,244.58 -57.46 -0.35 CSI 300 (CHN) 3,284.17 -11.5 -0.35 SH SE COM (CHN) 2,881.98 -4.67 -0.16 KOSPI INDEX (SK) 2,525.05 -15.22 -0.60 ASX 200 (AUS) 7,498.28 -7.74 -0.10 ALL ORDINARIES INDX (AUS) 7,730.54 -6.26 -0.08 SENSEX INDEX (IND) 72,568.44 +847.26 +1.18 FBM KLCI 1,487.34 +4.34 +0.29 STRAITS TIMES INDEX (S’PORE) 3,191.72 -9.69 -0.30 WTI (US$/BBL.) 72.68 +0.66 +0.92 BRENT (US$/BBL.) 78.29 +0.88 +1.14 GOLD (COMEX) (US$/T OZ) 2,051.60 +32.40 +1.60 SILVER (COMEX) (US$/T OZ) 23.33 +0.62 +2.75 PLATINUM (US$/T OZ) 911.64 -7.48 -0.81 COPPER (COMEX) (US CENTS/LB.) 374.05 -3.60 -0.95 COPPER 3MO (LME) (US$/MT) 8,339.00 -16.00 -0.19 CORN (US CENTS/BU.) 447.00 -10.75 -2.35 WHEAT (US CENTS/BU.) 596.00 -7.75 -1.28 SOYBEAN OIL (CBOT) (US CENTS/LB.) 1,224.25 -12.25 -0.99 COCOA (ICE) (US$/MT) 4,323.00 +49.00 +1.15 RUBBER (S’PORE) (US CENTS/KG) 153.20 +1.50 +0.99 World Stocks/Commodities as at 5pm, Jan 12 FBM KLCI expected to stay in consolidation mode KUALA LUMPUR: Bursa Malaysia is expected to trade on a cautious note this week given the major change in the macro situation following higher-than-expected inflation in the United States, which would push back the interest rate cut expectation. Rakuten Trade equity research vice-president Thong Pak Leng expects the benchmark FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI (FBM KLCI) to stay in consolidation mode this week until more clarity surfaces. “Our market under-performed last year, so this year it will play catch-up. Hence, the chance to perform better is there but we have to look at the US interest rate,“ he told Bernama. “With the higher-than-expected US inflation in December, economists predict that the US Federal Reserve is unlikely to cut interest rates in March, with many anticipating the central bank to postpone such a move until its May meeting,“ he added. From a technical perspective, Thong said the FBM KLCI has retraced after surpassing the 1,500-resistance level on Tuesday, and despite the inability to hold above 1,500 and the emergence of two consecutive black candles thereafter, this is a healthy correction for a more sustainable uptrend. “As such, we expect the benchmark index to move sideways with an upward bias within the 1,475-1,495 range for (this week) with immediate support at 1,475 followed by 1,465,“ he added. For the week just ended, the FBM KLCI traded mostly higher. It reached almost a one-year high and breached the 1,500 level on Tuesday as investors closely monitored the US consumer price index data on Thursday. It was also supported by brisk buying in selected heavyweights. On a Friday-to-Friday basis, the barometer index inched down 0.27 of-a-point to end the week at 1,487.34 versus 1,487.61 previously. – Bernama 1,487.34pts Jan 12, 2024

BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE MONDAY | JAN 15, 2024 20 MARKETS/FROM THE BROKERS SUNBIZ presents extracts of a selection of commentaries and research reports received from stockbrokers on counters that could be of interest to investors. [Compiled by SunBiz Team DISCLAIMER: The information is extracted from stockbrokers’ commentaries and research reports and do not represent the views or opinions of Sun Media Corporation Sdn Bhd. It is not a solicitation, recommendation or an offer to buy or sell the equities featured. Sun Media Corporation shalll not be liable or responsible for any consequences resulting from usage of the information. THE Malaysia Industrial Production Index (IPI) registered a modest 0.6% YoY growth, reaching 131.8 points. Nevertheless, this uptick fell short of the consensus estimate of 1% YoY and marked a decline from the revised 2.4% YoY increase recorded in the preceding month. The initial report for October 2023 had indicated a larger 2.7% YoY increase. The manufacturing component, which makes up a substantial 65.9% share of the IPI, declined by 0.1% YoY during the month (with a MoM decrease of 0.3%). This is in contrast to 0.9% YoY increase reported in the previous reporting period. Notably, export-oriented industries continued to drag the overall performance during the month with a larger decline of 2.7% YoY. Nonetheless, the performance was offset by resilient domestic-oriented industries, which continued to show growth. Export-oriented industries recorded a YoY decline of 2.7%, weaker than the 1.6% YoY contraction registered previously. The drop was primarily driven by numerous sectors, including the manufacture of computer, electronics and optical products, manufacture of textiles, and manufacture of coke and refined petroleum products. The performance of these industries was in tandem with the recent poor trade performance as total exports contracted by 5.9% YoY during the month to RM122.1 billion. Domestic-oriented industries, meanwhile, rose by 5.8% YoY, vs. 6.7% annual increase previously. Most of the products registered growth, except manufacture of basic pharmaceuticals, medicinal chemical and botanical products which declined by 6.5% YoY. The IPI has sustained a moderate expansion year-to-date, registering a 1% YoY increase during the initial eleven months of the current year (2022: 6.7%). WE BELIEVE Sunway Construction is in a sweet spot to benefit from the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) from various angles, from industrial buildings to renewable energy (RE). We still favour SCGB and even without the JS-SEZ – prospects are backed by Mass Rapid Transit 3, reinstatement of Light Rail Transit (LRT) 3 stations, and Penang LRT. The financial close of Song Hau 2 power plant (expected by end-1H24) may add c.MYR6bn to its orderbook (latest orderbook: RM5.8 billion). Market speculation is rife on the exact location of the JS-SEZ – either in Kulai which houses the Sedenak Tech Park (STeP) or somewhere near the Tuas Link. Should the JS-SEZ be situated near the Second Link, we may likely see spillover effects on the Sunway City Iskandar Puteri (SCIP) (GDV: RM30 billion) with 1,770 acres of land near the Second Link and subsequently, towards SCGB. SCGB has completed RM1.7 billion worth of projects in Johor with RM900 million jobs in SCIP. Assuming the JS-SEZ is in Kulai, SCGB already has a foothold in places like STeP via the RM1.7 billion data centre project it secured in Dec 2022. RE initiatives mentioned in the MoU of the JS-SEZ could likely spell opportunities from the EPCC of solar plants, in our view. Recall that SCGB has secured RM500 million of EPCC contracts for solar projects. No changes to our earnings estimates but we are adjusting our target P/E (pegged to our FY24F EPS) to 18.5x from 17x. As such, we arrive at a new TP of RM2.42 after imputing a 6% ESG premium based on our proprietary ESG scoring methodology. We believe this target P/E (which is above its 5-year mean P/E of 16x) is justified as SCGB was trading near around 18.5x during the mid-2017. Still BUY, with new MYR2.42 TP from MYR2.22, 11% upside and 3% FY24F yield. WHILE there has been significant interest from equity investors (and not property investors) in the property market in Johor due to the proposed Special Economic Zone in Forest City and improved connectivity with Singapore via the Johor Baru-Singapore Rapid Transit System, they will only be operational in CY25 and CY26, respectively, under a bluesky scenario. Nonetheless, we see a bright spot in the affordable housing segment. Reduced overhang, new units focus on affordability. Per Napic’s Q3 CY23 report, total overhang units (including unsold units under construction) have decreased from 142,475 in CY22 to 126,942, though still more prominent within Kuala Lumpur, Johor and Selangor. While this shows an encouraging consumption of previously unsold units, we highlight that the number of residential launches had also reduced with Q3 CY23’s 6,881 units (vs Q3CY22’s 8,226 units) as developers are likely being more selective with their launches. Developers may continue to react accordingly. Adapting to market conditions, developers will continue to offer a mixed bag of products but with a larger emphasis on affordable homes to cater to first-time house buyers. Our sector top picks are MAHSING and MKH, for which we hold a positive outlook due to their focus on affordable offerings priced below RM500k. In the case of MAHSING, its emphasis on lifestylefocused products aims to provide ease for first-time house buyers. As for MKH, their unique transit-oriented developments are likely to remain attractive to potential buyers. We maintain our NEUTRAL stance, remaining cautious on the property sector due to oversupply, high household debt, elevated interest rates and weakened consumer sentiment, which could be further dampened by subsidy rationalisation. FOREIGN CURRENCY SELLING TT/OD BUYING TT BUYING OD 1 US Dollar 4.7080 4.5740 4.5640 1 Australian Dollar 3.1720 3.0460 3.0300 1 Brunei Dollar 3.5400 3.4380 3.4300 1 Canadian Dollar 3.5160 3.4220 3.4100 1 Euro 5.1790 5.0120 4.9920 1 New Zealand Dollar 2.9510 2.8420 2.8260 1 Papua N Guinea Kina N/A N/A N/A 1 Singapore Dollar 3.5400 3.4380 3.4300 1 Sterling Pound 6.0240 5.8340 5.8140 1 Swiss Franc 5.5130 5.3860 5.3710 100 UAE Dirham 129.7600 123.0500 122.8500 100 Bangladesh Taka 4.3730 4.0880 3.8880 100 Chinese Renminbi 66.1600 63.3700 N/A 100 Danish Krone 71.1900 65.5200 65.3200 100 Hongkong Dollar 60.9000 57.8800 57.6800 100 Indian Rupee 5.7700 5.4100 5.2100 100 Indonesian Rupiah 0.0313 0.0284 0.0234 100 Japanese Yen 3.2470 3.1440 3.1340 100 New Taiwan Dollar 16.2000 N/A N/A 100 Norwegian Krone 46.9900 43.2200 43.0200 100 Pakistan Rupee 1.7100 1.6000 1.4000 100 Philippine Peso 8.5200 8.0300 7.8300 100 Qatar Riyal 130.7000 124.0800 123.8800 100 Saudi Riyal 127.0100 120.5700 120.3700 100 South Africa Rand 26.2100 23.6700 23.4700 100 Sri Lanka Rupee 1.5000 1.3800 1.1800 100 Thai Baht 14.0500 12.4700 12.0700 Exchange Rates Source: Malayan Banking Bhd/Bernama Businesses advised to adapt to policy, regulatory changes KUALA LUMPUR: Business communities in Malaysia can navigate the challenges of a change in government by adopting several strategies, such as by being adaptable to policy changes and regulatory shifts, according to the International Entrepreneurs Chamber Malaysia (IECM). By embracing adaptability, diversification, and proactive engagement, businesses can enhance their resilience and sustainability in the face of political transitions in Malaysia, it said. IECM president Badariah Badaruddin said it is crucial to adopt such strategies because political squabbles in Malaysia can impact businesses by creating uncertainty and instability, which lead to fluctuations in the stock market, changes in government policies, and a challenging business environment. “Businesses should stay informed about political developments and be prepared to adjust their strategies accordingly. “Diversifying products, services and markets can help mitigate risks associated with political changes. This provides a buffer against uncertainties in any specific sector or industry affected by government policies,” she said in a statement yesterday. She said that active engagement with policymakers and participating in advocacy efforts allow businesses to voice their concerns and contribute to policy discussions, consequently helping to shape policies in ways that are more favourable to the business community. “Implementing robust risk management practices helps businesses identify, assess and manage political risks effectively. This includes staying vigilant about changes in legislation, taxation, and regulatory frameworks,” she added. – Bernama Ringgit to see cautious trade ahead of economic data KUALA LUMPUR: The ringgit is expected to continue trading cautiously this week, as investors await a slew of economic data scheduled to be released by several major economies. Bank Muamalat Malaysia Bhd chief economist Dr Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid said this week, the focus would be on China’s fourth-quarter 2023 gross domestic product numbers which will be released on Wednesday, along with the United Kingdom’s and European Union’s consumer price indices (CPI). “Given the recent United States CPI print which turned out to be higher than expected, markets would reassess their position on whether the rate cut could happen as early as March,” he told Bernama. He said the ongoing military conflicts in the Red Sea and Yemen could result in higher crude oil prices which may have an impact on inflation. Ultimately, Mohd Afzanizam said, it depends on the US Federal Reserve, whether it is going to ease its monetary policy sooner or wants to take stock of the current developments on inflation. For the week just ended, the local note was traded higher as concerns over the US CPI data has caused some investors to turn to emerging currencies. On a Friday-to-Friday basis, the ringgit was higher against the US dollar at 4.6455/6500 from 4.6525/6580 a week earlier. The local unit also traded mostly lower against other major currencies. The ringgit however was traded higher against a few Asean currencies. It strengthened versus the Singapore dollar to 3.4900/4936 from 3.4944/4988 a week ago and advanced against the Thai baht to 13.2464/2664 from 13.4001/4236 previously. Property Sector NEUTRAL Sunway Construction Group Bhd BUY. TARGET PRICE: RM2.42 Industrial Production Index MODERATE Source: TA Securities Source: Bloomberg, RHB Research Jan 12, 2024: RM2.19 Source: Napic, Kenanga Research

INSIDE INSIDE INSIDE INSIDE Game on 2024 on 2024 Hottest releases from Hottest releases from January to March - P22 anuary to March - P22 WEEKLY FOCUS MONDAY Discover cuttingedge world of Gaming and Tech TUESDAY Ultimate guide to Travel and Leisure WEDNESDAY Latest in Fashion and Beauty sense THURSDAY Inside the world of Social Media Influencers FRIDAY Culinary delights and Beverage trends MONDAY | JAN 15, 2024 Editorial T: 03-7784 6688 F: 03-7785 2624/5 E: lifestyle@thesundaily.com Advertising T: 03-7784 8888 F: 03-7784 4424 SCAN ME E: advertise@thesundaily.com INSIDE p 23 Force with Star Wars Outlaws p 24 eSportsCon Malaysia ignites new era p 25 Lewis Capaldi breaks silence p 26 Pongal’s luminous celebration

LYFE LYFE MONDAY | JAN 15, 2024 22 Colossal start to gaming in 2024 oExciting titles set for release in first quarter of year DESPITE the industry-wide labour and fiscal problems that plagued game studios last year, 2024 is one of those rare years that has thus far pumped out a seemingly endless barrage of great games, one right after the other. Quite literally, there is no room for gamers to breathe, with the gap between each game’s release windows being extremely tight. This year might be shaping up to a redux of 2023, with the months of 2024 being loaded with games being released in quick succession. These are the five biggest games set to be released from January to March 2024. The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered Release Date: Jan 19 Platforms: PlayStation 5 Unlike the 2022 remaster of The Last of Us Part 1, Part 2 Remastered is not just a simple upscale in graphic quality. The upcoming game will also come with a slew of new features and modes. The biggest of which is the hotly anticipated new roguelite mode called No Return. Players will pick one of several main characters from the story to fight through select levels with random, difficult enemy encounters to reach the end. Dying is inevitable and will reset their progress, but players will retain weapons and skills that were unlocked to help in their next attempt at survival. Malaysian players with their original PlayStation 4 copy of The Last of Us 2 can upgrade to the remastered PS5 version for only RM40. Persona 3 reload Release Date: Feb 2 Platforms: PlayStation 5, PlayStation █ BY MARK MATHEN VICTOR DC Comics ragtag group of supervillains will go against the likes of Superman and Batman. – WARNER BROS GAMES Magic and dragons are abound in Dragon’s Dogma 2. – CAPCOM Persona 3 was the first game by Atlus that caught a wider audience outside Japan. –SEGA Platforms: PlayStation 5 After the blockbuster hit of 2020’s Final Fantasy VII Remake, the wait by fans for the sequel is almost over. Though Remake focused on the first five to eight hours or so from the original Final Fantasy VII in 1997, Rebirth will open the world of Midgar up to the players — up to a certain point — for them to experience the complex new direction Square Enix will take the game in. Dragon’s Dogma 2 Release Date: Mar 22 Platforms: PlayStation 5, Windows PC, and Xbox Series X Everything that made the first Dragon’s Dogma good will be improved upon and fleshed out or so the director of this game, Hideaki Itsuno, has claimed. Unlike last year’s high-soaring, high-fantasy game Baldur’s Gate 3, Dragon’s Dogma 2 will not be turnbased. As an action game set in a similar high fantasy medieval world, this game has the potential to be one of the year’s best outputs. Skull and Bones will take players across the ocean. – UBISOFT game is a must buy for hardcore DC Comics fans. Skull and Bones Release Date: Feb 16 Platforms: PlayStation 5, Windows PC, and Xbox Series X Inspired by the naval battles, navigation and exploration introduced in Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag, Skull and Bones began development a decade ago and since then, has gone through multiple changes while having its release date pushed back five times. If Ubisoft manages to finally launch the game next month, players will finally get to satiate their 17thcentury pirate fantasies modelled around a multiplayer format. Final Fantasy VII Rebirth Release Date: Feb 29 4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Microsoft Windows A remake of the original Persona 3 Reload from 2006 will feature graphic and functional updates that will bring the game closer to Atlus’ more recent Persona games. Unfortunately, Reload will not contain the story content from previous re-releases of the game, such as Persona 3 FES’ The Answer epilogue chapter or Persona III Portable’s option for players to pick a female character as the main protagonist. As the creators of Reload have made it clear they want the game to be more in line with the original game, anyone seeking a “definitive” version with all the additional bells and whistles might want to skip this one. Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League Release Date: Feb 2 Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Microsoft Windows The latest game set in the Arkhamverse, Kill the Justice League, initially had a lot of hype around it, but after several delays and reveals by developer Rocksteady Studios last year, fan anticipation seems to have subsided somewhat. Featuring a story involving a group of unwilling mercenaries tasked with fighting the iconic members of DC Comics’ most popular superheroes, Kill the Justice League will apparently be a shooting action game with a heavy emphasis on loot, which has not gone down well with gamers. The past month or so has also seen the game’s alleged story leak, along with additional playable characters post-launch being revealed, such as the potential Killer Croc. Though a looter shooter game might not be what fans want, the

LYFE LYFE MONDAY | JAN 15, 2024 23 a clarification. The initial “late 2024” release timing was amended to a more ambiguous but still promising release window within the year. Ever since the showcase in the previous year, which included a gameplay presentation featuring the protagonist Kay and her axolotl-like companion Nix, fan excitement for the upcoming Star Wars game has skyrocketed. Developed by Massive Entertainment, the renowned studio behind Tom Clancy’s The Division series and the recent Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora, Star Wars Outlaws is highly anticipated by both Star Wars and gaming enthusiasts. In an interview with Edge Magazine conducted last year, Massive Entertainment’s creative director, Julian Gerighty, shed light on the development approach for Outlaws. He emphasised a “handcrafted” open-world, drawing a comparison to the scale, where one planet in the game might be roughly equivalent to the size of two regions in Assassin’s Creed Odyssey. This commitment to a detailed and expansive gaming environment adds to the anticipation surrounding the title, promising players an immersive and vast Star Wars experience. As we await further details and an official release date, the gaming community is abuzz with excitement for what Star Wars O u t l a w s may bring to the galaxy of gaming. Star Wars Outlaws set for release I N an exciting revelation at the 2023 Xbox Games Showcase, Ubisoft showcased Star Wars Outlaws, a highly anticipated open-world Star Wars game that may potentially hit consoles and PC later this year, according to an accidental leak from the official Disney Parks blog. The blog post boldly stated, “Star Wars Outlaws, the openworld Star Wars game, is set to release late this year.” The game promises players the opportunity to explore various distinct planets across the galaxy, encompassing both iconic and novel landscapes. Players are invited to immerse themselves in the thrilling narrative of Kay Vess, an emerging scoundrel with a desire for freedom and the pursuit of a new life, accompanied by her trusty companion Nix. The blog tantalisingly declares, “If you’re willing to take the risk, the galaxy is full of opportunity.” Following the leak, Ubisoft promptly reached out to gaming outlets, including IGN, to provide Outlaws’ story is set between The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi timeline. – UBISOFT oFan anticipation high since last year’s showcase of game █ BY MARK MATHEN VICTOR Generic horror game flayed online “H”— used by Neo-Nazis and white supremacists. The gameplay was also criticised, as it focuses on players dealing with a rat infestation by using gas. For those that do not know, before and during World War II, rats were commonly used in Nazi propaganda to describe Jewish people and the use of gas harks back to the gas chambers in concentration camps. Due to the growing pushback, on Jan 3, Nightmare Forge Games posted an update on X (formerly Twitter) that they were changing the game’s name to Infestation: Origins. “Our game is set in the 1980s, with the year 1988 chosen simply due to its symmetrical design in the game’s artwork and logo. Unfortunately, we were unaware of any additional meanings the number ‘88’ has,” the developer statement claimed. It is currently unclear whether the gameplay will be changed or overhauled. - BY MARK MATHEN VICTOR A release date has not been set for Infestation: Origins. - NIGHTMARE FORGE GAMES AI to the fore The co-op game will presumably have several players playing together. AS the Steamboat Willie version of Mickey Mouse entered the public domain on Jan 1, media creators began dropping news of how they were intending to capitalise on that particular iteration of Disney’s mascot. For film, there is a Mickey Mouse slasher horror film on the way called Mickey’s Mouse Trap, with a yet-to-beset release date. On the gaming front, game developer Nightmare Forge Games announced a new horror survival game featuring the black-and-white design of Mickey Mouse as an in-game monster and the news immediately generated conversation. Instead of circling around how the game looks like every other generic horror game, online chatter honed in on the game’s subtle subtext. Revealed as Infestation 88, the title immediately rang alarm bells, as “88” is a common code for “Heil Hitler” — the “8” refers to the eighth alphabet, A KEY emerging technology in the gaming industry is artificial intelligence (AI). It is set to play a crucial role in how games are developed and marketed once publishers and developers figure out how to do it, ethically or otherwise. Square Enix is seeking to aggressively “apply” AI to its business, president Takashi Kiryu explained in a New Year’s letter addressed to the public. “We intend to be aggressive in applying AI and other cutting-edge technologies to both our content development and our publishing functions,” wrote Takashi, who took over as Square Enix’s new boss last year. “In the short term, our goal will be to enhance our development productivity and achieve greater sophistication in our marketing efforts”. In the long term, Square Enix will be leveraging the technology to create “new forms of content” for consumers, as the company views technological innovation as a form of business opportunity. While he did not detail how AI would be used when it comes to development, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth co-director Naoki Hamaguchi told Edge Magazine in early 2023 that the upcoming game by Square Enix uses AI to match the in-game character facial and lip expressions to their dialogue and the voice of actors. - BY MARK MATHEN VICTOR It is unclear how Square Enix will be using AI in Final Fantasy VII Rebirth and beyond. - SQUARE ENIX

LYFE LYFE MONDAY | JAN 15, 2024 24 /thesundaily FOLLOW ON FACEBOOK Malaysian Paper Cutting-edge trends and innovations Industry trailblazers like SEA Gamer Mall and MSI exhibited cutting-edge gaming trends, products and services. Participants explored the latest in gaming brands and engaged with interactive showcases, providing insights into the best the industry had to offer. eSportsCon also featured up-and-coming independent developers showcasing their game creations, offering a sneak peek into the exclusive launches and showcases of highly anticipated games set to hit the market in 2025. Etika’s vice-president of marketing, Amy Gan, expressed their brand Goodday’s commitment to supporting eSports growth. Working alongside eSports Integrated and the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Goodday aims to legitimise eSports as a sport on par with traditional athletics. Emphasising the importance of dispelling myths surrounding eSports, particularly in health and fitness, Gan highlighted Goodday Charge, a specially crafted chocolate milk designed to provide essential nutrients, including vitamin B complex, supporting eSports athletes with sustained energy. Insights from industry experts eSportsCon featured insightful panel discussions by experts from government agencies, game developers, eSports athletes and more. Topics included the implementation of the National eSports Development Guidelines (NESDEG), unlocking opportunities in eSports through gaming partnerships, exploring career opportunities in eSports and interviews with existing eSports national players. Fostering partnerships and collaborations eSportsCon facilitated business matchmaking sessions, allowing participants to explore potential partnerships and collaborations. These sessions provided a platform for stakeholders to connect, laying the groundwork for future collaborations that could shape the eSports landscape. Competitive gaming thrills audiences Enthusiastic crowds witnessed an exhilarating eSports showdown as key opinion leaders (KOL) — Kingyonni, Sultan Riq, Sleepygodzillas and MamaJess — geared up for a friendly clash in the digital arena. The spectacle brought an unprecedented level of entertainment to both seasoned gamers and eager spectators, highlighting the thrill of watching influential personalities engage in competitive gaming. An unforgettable visual and auditory experience Visitors were treated to a captivating display of creativity during the cosplay extravaganza. Dynamic dancing by Kitty and Kazumi, soulful singing by Rina Hime and an electrifying DJ performance by DJ Harimao ensured an unforgettable visual and auditory experience for attendees. A historic celebration This year’s eSportsCon transcended being merely an event — it marked the beginning of a new era in the eSports industry. The Ministry of Youth and Sports and eSports Integrated extended their gratitude to all participants, sponsors and attendees for contributing to the historic success of this groundbreaking event. Every visitor experienced an unforgettable journey, creating a significant chapter in the history of gaming in Malaysia. eSportsCon 2024 serves as a testament to the vibrant future awaiting the eSports industry in Malaysia. T HE inaugural eSportsCon Malaysia 2024, orchestrated by the Ministry of Youth and Sports through eSports Integrated (ESI), unfolded on Jan 6 at Spacerubix, Puchong. This groundbreaking event aimed to create an inclusive space for gaming enthusiasts, industry professionals and tech aficionados to engage, connect and celebrate their shared passion for gaming. Inclusive gathering of gaming enthusiasts The convention featured a myriad of activities, including exhibitions by universities and tech brands, panel discussions on eSports hot topics, B2B business matching, networking opportunities, show matches with eSports Key Opinion Leaders (KOL), vibrant cosplay performances, food trucks and more. Ahmed eSports Integrated’s CEO Faris Amir, emphasised the inclusive nature of eSportsCon, catering not only to avid eSports fans but also welcoming newcomers to immerse themselves in the vibrant gaming ecosystem. Sparking collaborations and celebrating contributions Ahmed expressed the event’s purpose as a platform for stakeholders and participants across the spectrum to unite, celebrate contributions and explore potential collaborations. By connecting people with the resources and partners they need, eSportsCon aspires to ignite new eSports programmes and communitybuilding initiatives, propelling Malaysian eSports into the future. Nurturing future eSports talent The university showcase area showcased studentled eSports initiatives from major campuses, including INTI, Sunway, Monash, UNITEN, UniKL, UiTM, UKM, MMU Cyberjaya and IIUM. Visitors had the opportunity to engage with the next generation of eSports enthusiasts, learning about groundbreaking developments in university gaming communities and clubs. eSportsCon aimed to inspire and propel collegiate eSports forward by highlighting student-fuelled innovations in competitive gaming and eSports. Level up oeSportsCon Malaysia rewrites gaming history This groundbreaking event aimed to create an inclusive space for gaming enthusiasts. – PICS BY ESI A performance by the anime cover dancer, Tmia. eSportsCon 2024 featured a plethora of activities. Visitors took part in a myriad of fun and interactive games. A friendly match off between KOLs had the audience captivated. █ BY YASMIN ZULRAEZ

LYFE LYFE MONDAY | JAN 15, 2024 25 Capaldi unplugged SCOTTISH singer-songwriter Lewis Capaldi has shared updates on his well-being and unveiled plans for an extended version of his latest album. In a detailed post on social media, Capaldi revealed that his second studio album, Broken by Desire to be Heavenly Sent, initially launched in May last year, will soon receive an extended edition featuring five additional tracks. After facing voice difficulties during his performance at the Glastonbury Festival last summer, where the audience stepped in to sing the final songs, Capaldi took a break to focus on his mental health. Expressing gratitude for the overwhelming support from fans, he shared, “As most of you will know, I’m currently taking some time off to focus on my health and wellbeing and it’s been going great.” Capaldi mentioned working with professionals to better understand and cope with his Tourette’s and anxiety issues. “I’m really happy to say I’ve noticed a marked improvement in both since I decided to take some time off back in June,” he added. Acknowledging the outpouring of support, he said, “I was completely overwhelmed by the reaction to the news that I was taking a break and genuinely want to thank each and every one of you who reached out, left a comment, tweet or DM wishing me well.” Expressing his excitement to return to his passion, Capaldi wrote, “The support was like nothing I’ve ever experienced and has made me more excited than ever to return to doing Capaldi provides a sincere update on his career hiatus. – ALEXANDRA GAVILLET oHealth breaks, gratitude and extended tracks █ BY HAZIQUE ZAIRILL New tunes from White AMERICAN musician Jack White has strongly suggested that he will be releasing new music, as per a recent post on social media. Starting the year, the Detroit musician shared a snippet of unheard music featuring a bluesy guitar intro. While no additional text or caption was provided by White, the correlation between the blue backdrop used in the post and his solo endeavours suggests that the tease may refer to a forthcoming solo album. The rocker’s fans expressed enthusiasm, with one stating, “The new year is already starting off on the right foot,“ and another declaring, “I’m ready.” Following The White Stripes’ disbandment, White collaborated with The Raconteurs and The Dead Weather. Amid his contributions to these projects, he has also had a successful solo career that has thus far produced five albums. His latest solo releases include Fear of the Dawn and Entering Heaven Alive, both released in 2022. Furthermore, White released The White Stripes: Live in Las Vegas in October last year. This triple vinyl set release includes a bonus seven-inch record pressed on glittery red vinyl featuring a collaborative live rendition of Ball and Biscuit with Bob Dylan in Detroit, Michigan, this year. - BY HAZIQUE ZAIRILL White hinted that new solo material will be released this year. - THIRD MAN RECORDS Repercussions for China’s gaming industry fallout IMAGINE losing US$80 billion (RM370 billion) in the blink of an eye. That is exactly what two of China’s biggest gaming companies faced towards the end of last December. On Dec 22, Chinese Communist Party Publicity Department head of publishing Feng Shixin announced new controversial gaming laws aimed at limiting spending on video games, primarily by cracking down on micro-transaction practices. In the next 24 hours, the laws led to an almost US$80 billion (RM371 billion) sell-off in China’s gaming market. China’s biggest gaming company, Tencent, saw its shares drop as much as 16%, while the country’s second biggest company, NetEase, dropped as much as 25%. Almost two weeks later, Reuters exclusively reported on Jan 3 that its sources had claimed Feng had been removed from his position at the Publicity Department, which plays a critical role in regulating China’s video game sector. At the time of this article’s writing, the Chinese government has not officially announced his departure. Feng’s removal is believed to be due to the controversy surrounding the new regulations and its aftermath, which led to the country’s video game industry’s catastrophic drop in value. - BY MARK MATHEN VICTOR Mobile gaming is a crucial economic pillar in China. - RAWPIXEL.COM / FREEPIK Shin-hye and Jaeyoung star in fantasy romance drama PARK Shin-hye and Kim Jae-young are set to take the lead roles in the upcoming fantasy romance drama The Judge from Hell. In this intriguing tale, Shin-hye will portray Kang Bit-na, a demon from the depths of hell who has inhabited the body of a judge. While possessing both beauty and an elite background, Bit-na’s true identity remains concealed as she embarks on a mission to punish those individuals who show no remorse despite being responsible for the deaths of others. Her duty is to dispatch them to hell by eliminating them. Jae-young will bring to life Han Da-on, a compassionate detective assigned to the violent crimes unit. Beyond his caring and gentle nature, Da-on possesses remarkable observational skills, making him a sharp and perceptive police officer. The character, however, harbours a deep secret known only to himself. Fans of both actors will be eagerly anticipating its premiere, scheduled for early this year. - BY THASHINE SELVAKUMARAN The Judge from Hell will feature Shin-hye (left) and Jae-Young (right) as leads. – PABAON what I love at some point in the not too distant future.” Despite admitting being “terrified” about the release of his second album, Capaldi was thrilled to see the songs resonate with fans. Considering t h e significance of the extra five tracks, he decided to release them, stating, “After some back-andforth about whether or not it was the right thing to do, I’ve decided it would be a shame for these extra five songs, which are so incredibly special to me, to sit on my hard drive, never to see the light of day.” Broken By Desire to Be Heavenly Sent, which achieved the title for the biggest opening week sale of the year with 95,000 chart units in its debut week, faced tough competition when Taylor Swift released the re-recording of her 2014 album, 1989, surpassing Capaldi’s record.

LYFE LYFE MONDAY | JAN 15, 2024 26 READ OUR HERE /thesun Malaysian Paper PONGAL, deeply ingrained in Tamil culture, has transcended its roots to become a luminous celebration that binds communities throughout Malaysia. This agrarian festival, also known as Thai Pongal, marks the Tamil harvest season — a time for gratitude, introspection and jubilant festivities that resonate beyond ethnic boundaries. The anticipation preceding Pongal is palpable, with communities abuzz in excitement, diligently preparing to honour the Sun God, Surya and express gratitude for the abundant harvest. Homes come alive with vibrant kolams and intricate rice flour drawings, symbols of prosperity that beckon positive energy into households. Pongal commences with the ceremonial boiling of a pot filled with fresh milk, newly harvested rice and jaggery. Families gather, eagerly awaiting the moment when the mixture boils over — a joyous event known as Pongal Vizha, symbolising prosperity, abundance and the overflowing blessings of the harvest. The festivities spill onto the streets, where the air carries the enticing aromas of traditional Tamil dishes. The sweet fragrance of Sakkarai Pongal, a delightful blend of rice, lentils, jaggery and ghee, intertwines with the savoury scents of Ven Pongal, a dish of rice and lentils seasoned with black pepper and cumin. Streets transform into communal kitchens, resonating with the sounds of laughter and chatter as families and neighbours share their culinary creations. To truly grasp the essence of Pongal, one must immerse themselves in the rhythm of traditional Tamil music and dance. In the days leading up to the festival, streets and community halls come alive with the infectious beats of Pongal Koothu, a lively form of folk theatre narrating tales of rural life and agricultural abundance. Dancers, adorned in vibrant costumes, twirl and leap, expressing joy and gratitude through rhythmic movements. The pinnacle of Pongal is Mattu Pongal, a day dedicated to honoring cattle for their indispensable role in agriculture. Colourfully adorned with garlands and bells, cows and bulls parade through villages, accompanied by traditional music and dance. Farmers express gratitude by offering Pongal to their livestock, recognising the vital partnership between humans and animals in the agricultural cycle. The vibrant and inclusive nature of Pongal celebrations in Malaysia is particularly evident in the modern adaptations of the festival. In urban hubs bustling with diverse communities like Kuala Lumpur and Penang, Pongal takes on a modern twist, seamlessly blending tradition with contemporary flair. Shopping malls adorned with elaborate kolam designs become █ BY THASHINE SELVAKUMARAN Pongal is a traditional South Indian dish made with newly harvested rice, jaggery and milk, symbolising abundance. – PINTEREST The festival marks the end of the winter season and the onset of the harvest season. – PINTEREST Families come together to celebrate Pongal with colourful decorations, traditional rituals and exchange of greetings. – PINTEREST cultural hubs, attracting people from various backgrounds who come to witness and participate in the artistic expressions of Tamil culture. Cultural centres play a pivotal role in showcasing the depth of Tamil heritage through multimedia displays. These exhibitions not only educate but also foster a sense of pride among Malaysians that defines the nation. Schools and workplaces organise Pongal events, fostering understanding and appreciation for the cultural diversity defining Malaysia. Food, a universal language, becomes a central aspect of Pongal celebrations in urban settings. Food festivals featuring Pongal specialties serve as a melting pot of flavours, bringing Malaysians from different backgrounds to savour the delectable dishes that symbolise the harvest season. Through the sharing of meals, Malaysians forge connections, breaking bread together in a celebration of diversity. This not only strengthens the bonds among Malaysians but also instills a sense of cultural awareness and tolerance from a young age. It is a time when the country comes together to celebrate the richness of its cultural mosaic, transcending differences and emphasising the shared values that bind its people. As the sun sets on the Pongal festivities, the radiant glow of oil lamps and twinkling fairy lights creates a mesmerising atmosphere. Families, friends and neighbours gather for Uruttal, a ceremonial oil bath that signifies not just physical purification but also a renewal of spirits. The gentle warmth of the oil, infused with medicinal herbs, is believed to bestow health and prosperity in the coming year, symbolising hope for a harmonious and bountiful future. Pongal, celebrated from Jan 15 to Jan 17 this year, is a radiant tapestry woven with threads of tradition, gratitude and communal joy. From the rural villages to the bustling urban centres, Malaysians embrace Pongal as a time to come together, appreciate each other’s differences and celebrate the shared values that make our nation strong. oPongal’s cultural fusion spreads festive cheer in Malaysia Unity in grains Pongal is a traditional harvest festival celebrated in South India. – FREEPIK

322 Notices LAMPIRAN B Ruj. Tuan : TTH/PBB/HL-27/2023/OSY/NA Ruj. Kami : Bil(14) dlm.PTKM/Q/112/2023 Saman Kepada Penggadai Supaya Hadir Dalam Siasatan Di Bawah Seksyen 261(1)(c) Lee Cheng Im (730313-02-5546) No. 17, Lorong 14, Taman Melati, 08000 Sungai Petani, Kedah Darul Aman. Penggadai dalam gadaian yang tersebut dalam jadual di bawah ini bagi tanah sebagaimana yang tersebut di dalamnya. Bahawa saya telah menerima daripada pemegang gadaian yang tersebut suatu permohonan supaya perintah jual dikeluarkan dibawah seksyen 260 (2) Kanun Tanah Negara. Dengan ini saya bercadang hendak mengadakan suatu siasatan berkenaan dengan permohonan ini di BILIK PENOLONG PENTADBIR TANAH (UNIT PENDAFTARAN), BLOK C PEJABAT TANAH KUALA MUDA, SUNGAI PETANI, KEDAH pada hari ISNIN bersamaan 22 JANUARI 2024 jam 10.15 PAGI. Maka oleh yang demikian menurut Seksyen 261 (1) (c) Kanun Tanah Negara, tuan/puan adalah dengan ini dikehendaki hadir dalam siasatan tersebut dan menunjukkan sebab-sebab mengapa PERINTAH tersebut tidak patut dijalankan. Bertarikh pada : 18.12.2023 (NAFISHAH BINTI MD SHARIF) PENOLONG PENTADBIR TANAH b/p PENTADBIR TANAH KUALA MUDA SUNGAI PETANI, KEDAH DARUL AMAN JADUAL TANAH DAN KEPENTINGAN Bandar/Pekan Mukim No. Lot/ P.T./Plot Jenis & No. JHM Bahagian Tanah No. Berdaftar Pajakan/ Paj. Kecil No. Berdaftar Gadaian (jika ada) Bandar Sungai Petani LOT 7864 GM 816 KESEMUA TIADA Per. No. : 3669/2018 322 Notices IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF KIAT WOOI ENTERPRISE SENDIRIAN BERHAD (Registration No. 197901002385(46645-K)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding Up) At a General Meeting of the abovenamed Company duly convened and held on 8th January 2024, the following resolutions was duly passed:- “THAT pursuant to Section 439(1)(b) of the Companies Act 2016, the Company be wound up voluntarily.” “THAT the Liquidator may exercise any powers in accordance with Section 456 and Eleventh Schedule of the Companies Act 2016.” “THAT in accordance with the Articles of Association of the Company, the Liquidator may distribute to the members in kind the whole or any part of the assets of the Company.” ONG ENG HAI Chairman Dated this 15th day of January, 2024. IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF KIAT WOOI ENTERPRISE SENDIRIAN BERHAD (Registration No. 197901002385(46645-K)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding Up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the creditors of the abovementioned Company, which is being wound up voluntarily, are required on or before 14th February 2024 to send in their names and addresses with particulars of their debts or claim and the names and addresses of their solicitors (if any) to the undersigned, the Liquidator of the said Company; and if so required by notice in writing from the said Liquidator, are, by their solicitors or personally, to come and prove their debts or claims at such time and place as shall be specified in such notice, or in default thereof they will be excluded from the benefit of any distribution made before such debts or claims are proved. LEE EWE HOCK Liquidator 33B Jalan Pahang 10400 Georgetown Pulau Pinang Tel: +60 4 286 4111 Dated this 15th day of January, 2024. PERISYTIHARAN JUALAN DALAM MAHKAMAH TINGGI MALAYA DI PULAU PINANG PERMOHONAN UNTUK PERLAKSANAAN NO: PA-38-796-10/2023 Dalam perkara mengenai Seksyen 256 dan 257 Kanun Tanah Negara, 1965 Dan Dalam perkara mengenai Gadaian Perserahan No: 0799SC2012036652 ( bertarikh 08/10/2012) ke atas semua bahagian tanah yang dipegang di bawah Geran 102197 / M3/8/535 bersama dengan parcel aksesori No. A886, Lot 11256, Mukim 13, Daerah Timor Laut, Pulau Pinang Dan Dalam perkara mengenai Aturan 83 Kaedah- Kaedah Mahkamah, 2012 ANTARA OCBC BANK (MALAYSIA) BERHAD (No. Syarikat : 295400-W) ...PLAINTIF DAN YEOH AIK CHENG (No. Kad Pengenalan : 800117075555) TAN SOW CHEE (No. Kad Pengenalan : 521117075158) ...DEFENDAN Menurut Perintah Mahkamah Tinggi Malaya di PULAU PINANG mengenai Perintah Jualan dan Perintah bertarikh 1 Ogos 2022 dan 8 Disember 2023, adalah dengan ini diisytiharkan bahawa Timbalan Pendaftar/Penolong Kanan Pendaftar Pusat Operasi e- Lelong di Kuantan AKAN MENJUAL SECARA LELONG AWAM Pada Hari Rabu, 22 Januari 2024, Pada Jam 11:00 pagi, SECARA ELEKTRONIK DI LAMAN WEB e-LELONG, PUSAT OPERASI e-LELONG, KOMPLEKS MAHKAMAH KUANTAN, PAHANG DARUL MAKMUR NOTA: Bakal pembeli adalah dinasihatkan agar membuat carian Hakmilik secara rasmi di Peiabat Tanah dan memeriksa semua tanggungan, bebanan serta mengenal pasti dengan tepat hartanah tersebut sebelum jualan lelongan dijalankan. Sila layari https://eIelong.kehakiman.gov.my/bidderweb BUTIR-BUTIR HAKMILIK: No. Hakmilik : Geran 102197 /M3/8/535 bersama dengan parcel aksesori No. A886 No. Lot : Lot 11256 Mukim/Daerah/Negeri : 13 / Timor Laut / Pulau Pinang Pegangan : Hakmilik Kekal No. Petak/No. Tingkat/No. : 535 / 8 / M3 Bangunan : Keluasan Tanah : 0.0000000000 kaki persegi : 0.0000000000 meter persegi Pemilik Berdaftar : YEOH AIK CHENG, TAN SOW CHEE Syarat Nyata : Petak ini hendaklah digunakan untuk tujuan rumah pangsa sahaja Sekatan Kepentingan : Tiada Bebanan / Lain-Lain : Kawasan Rizab : Kaveat : LOKASI DAN PERIHAL HARTANAH : Hartanah tersebut adalah seunit rumah pangsa beserta dengan satu aksesori parcel (tempat letak kereta) yang beralamat pos di Unit 8C-08-02, Blok 8C, Asia Heights, Lorong Semarak Api 3, 11500, Ayer Itam, Pulau Pinang. HARGA RIZAB : Hartanah tersebut akan dijual atas “sepertimana sedia ada” tertakluk kepada satu harga rizab sebanyak RM 400,000.00 (RINGGIT MALAYSIA: EMPAT RATUS RIBU SAHAJA) dan kepada syarat-syarat jualan yang dilampirkan. Pembida yang berminat hendaklah mendepositkan 10% daripada harga rizab dalam bentuk Bank Draf di atas nama OCBC BANK (MALAYSIA) BERHAD 1 HARI BEKERJA sebelum tarikh lelong awam. Baki harga belian hendaklah dibayar oleh pembida yang berjaya kepada OCBC BANK (MALAYSIA) BERHAD dalam tempoh seratus dua puluh (120) hari dari tarikh jualan. Untuk butir-butir selanjutnya, sila berhubung dengan:- Firma Guaman : GHAZI & LIM Alamat : 19TH FLOOR, PLAZA MWE NO 8, LEBUH FARQUHAR, 10200, PG, MY No. Telefon : 04-2633688 No. Fax : 04-2633188/2627433 No. Rujukan : 0128/16/JB/LJL/SZ IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF DAZZLING TOWNSHIP SDN. BHD. [200601002529 (722277-H)] (IN MEMBERS’ VOLUNTARY LIQUIDATION) NOTICE OF FINAL MEETING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT pursuant to Section 459 of the Companies Act, 2016 the Final Meeting of the Members of the Company will be held on Thursday, 15 February, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. at Suite #8-13-6, Mutiara Bangsar, 8, Jalan Liku, 59100 Kuala Lumpur for the following purposes:- 1. To receive and consider the Liquidator’s Statement of Accounts showing the manner in which the winding up has been conducted and the property disposed of and of hearing any explanations that may be given by the Liquidators. 2. To determine by ordinary resolution the manner and period in which the books, accounts and documents of the Company and of the Liquidators shall be disposed of. TEW PENG HWEE @ TEOH PENG HWEE DATO’ ABAS CARL GUNNAR BIN ABDULLAH Liquidators Kuala Lumpur Dated this 15 January 2024 Any member entitled to attend and vote at this meeting is entitled to appoint a proxy who need not be a member of the Company to attend and vote in his stead. The instrument appointing a Proxy must be deposited at Suite #8-13-6, Mutiara Bangsar, 8, Jalan Liku, 59100 Kuala Lumpur, not less than 48 hours before the time for holding the Meeting or at any adjournment thereof. IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF WLX TRUCK SHELTER SDN BHD Company No. 201801043548 (1305580-W) (IN MEMBERS’ VOLUNTARY WINDING UP) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to Section 459 of the Companies Act, 2016 that a Final meeting of the Members of the above company will be held at No. 2-29, PV 128, Jalan Genting Kelang, 53300 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan on the 14th February 2024, at 11.00 am for the following purposes: 1. To receive and consider the Liquidator’s Statement of Accounts and any explanations therefrom. 2. To determine the disposal of the books, accounts and documents of the Company. Signed ………………… HOR YUEN FOONG LIQUIDATOR Dated this: 15th January 2024 322 Notices 322 Notices If you feel you have what it takes, to join us in the interesting media industry, send your resume (together with a photo of you) via email to hr@thesundaily.com You can call us at +603 7784 6688 theSun is published by Sun Media Corporation Sdn Bhd Lot 6, Level 4, Jalan 51/217, 46050 Petaling Jaya, Selangor. MARKETING EXECUTIVE Responsibilities 1. Handle both local & outstation Agents and Vendors. 2. Handle sales of newspaper-corporate sales e.g.: Hospital, Hotels, etc. 3. Actively engage in outbound sales activities to acquire new newspaper subscribers. Requirements 1. Minimum Diploma in Business, Marketing, Communications, or related field with at least 2 years of experience. 2. Proven experience in sales, preferably in the media or publishing industry would be an advantage 3. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. 4. Excellent selling, communication and negotiation skills. Malaysian Paper MEDIA SALES REPRESENTATIVE / AGENT (FREELANCE) Requirements 1. Minimum 1 year sales experience in newspaper bulk sales and digital advertising 2. Attractice commision package and incentive 3. Able to start immediately 4. Central, Nothern, Southern, East Coast and Sabah/Sarawak IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF GERIMIS BERKAT SDN BHD COMPANY NO. 1136690-H (MEMBERS’ VOLUNTARY WINDING-UP) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to Section 459 of the Companies Act, 2016 that a Final Meeting of the Company will be held at 221B, Jalan Mahkota, Taman Maluri, 55100 Kuala Lumpur on February 19, 2024 at 10.00a.m. for the following purpose:- a. To receive an account from the Liquidator showing the manner in which the winding-up has been conducted and the property of the Company disposed of and to hear any explanations that may be given by the Liquidator. b. To determine pursuant to Section 518 of the Companies Act, 2016, the manner in which the books, accounts and documents of the Company and of the Liquidator thereof, shall be disposed of. Wong Soon Fong Liquidator c/o SFW Insolvency Services 221B, Jalan Mahkota, Taman Maluri, Cheras, 55100 Kuala Lumpur Kuala Lumpur this January 15, 2024 Item Reg No Make Model Price 1 BKH1904 2009 PERODUA MYVI - 1.3 EZI (A) 12000 2 WC2893P 2015 PROTON PERSONA 1.6 AUTOMATIK 15000 3 WC8850V 2015 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT 1.8 6000 4 VJS432 2022 MERCEDES-BENZ AMG A 35 289000 5 VGL4504 2021 HONDA VARIO 150 REPSOL 5000 6 BQT672 2021 YAMAHA Y15ZR - 150cc 6000 7 MDL 5593 2022 HONDA RS-X FS150FA 6000 8 KFG7398 2022 SYM VF3i 185 LE (PRO) 5000 9 BQP8658 2021 SYM VF3I 185 LE VFD (PRO) 3000 Scan QR to download Pickles Auctions App Bank Repossessed bikes and cars for sale by auction. All auctions are conducted via eBidding on Wednesday 17, 24 & 31 January at 9.30am (bikes) and 11.00am (cars). All are invited to join our PUBLIC AUCTION. Viewing and inspection on every Tuesday from 9.30am - 5.30pm. Download Pickles Auctions app to view all auction listings or visit www.pickles.my For more information call 016-6999170, WhatsApp 012-5553727 or email info@pickles.my PICKLES ASIA SDN BHD [1231292-D] Lot 19391, Batu 8 1⁄2, Jalan Klang Lama, Taman Desaria, 46000 Petaling Jaya, Selangor. 322 Notices 322 Notices CALL TO PLACE CLASSIFIED ADS MS. SHOBA / MS. BALQISH T 03 7784 8888 F 03 7784 4424 SCAN ME MONDAY JAN 15, 2024

SPORTS SPORTS MONDAY | JAN 15, 2024 28 TRAMLINES NOTICE IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF EURO COMPOSITE MATERIALS SUPPLY SDN. BHD. 200101021905 (557663-V) (Incorporated in Malaysia) (IN MEMBERS’ VOLUNTARY WINDING UP) NOTICE OF FINAL MEETING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT pursuant to Section 459(2) of the Companies Act 2016, the Final Meeting of the Members of the Company will be convened and held at Suite 39.1.6, First Floor, Jalan Kenari 17C, Bandar Puchong Jaya, 47100 Puchong, Selangor Darul Ehsan on 15 Feburary 2024 at 10.00 a.m. for the following purposes:- AGENDA 1. To receive an account from the liquidator showing the manner in which the winding-up has been conducted and to hear explanations that may be given by the liquidator. 2. To determine in the manner in which the books, accounts and documents of the Company and the liquidator thereof shall be disposed of. CHEW POR YAN Liquidator Dated this 15 January 2024 NOTICE IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF KASATRIA MSC SDN. BHD. 200501002788 (679834-M) (Incorporated in Malaysia) (IN MEMBERS’ VOLUNTARY WINDING UP) NOTICE OF FINAL MEETING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT pursuant to Section 459(2) of the Companies Act 2016, the Final Meeting of the Members of the Company will be convened and held at Suite 39.1.6, First Floor, Jalan Kenari 17C, Bandar Puchong Jaya, 47100 Puchong, Selangor Darul Ehsan on 15 Feburary 2024 at 10.00 a.m. for the following purposes:- AGENDA 1. To receive an account from the liquidator showing the manner in which the winding-up has been conducted and to hear explanations that may be given by the liquidator. 2. To determine in the manner in which the books, accounts and documents of the Company and the liquidator thereof shall be disposed of. CHEW POR YAN Liquidator Dated this 15 January 2024 PERISYTIHARAN JUALAN DALAM MAHKAMAH TINGGI MALAYA DI PULAU PINANG PERMOHONAN UNTUK PERLAKSANAAN NO: PA-38-812-10/2023 Dalam perkara mengenai Seksyen 256 dan 257 Kanun Tanah Negara, 1965 Dan Dalam perkara mengenai Gadaian Perserahan No: 0799SC2015024267 ( bertarikh 13/07/2015) ke atas semua bahagian tanah yang dipegang di bawah Geran No. 123322, Lot 8238, Mukim 14, Daerah Seberang Perai Tengah, Pulau Pinang Dan Dalam perkara mengenai Aturan 83 Kaedah- Kaedah Mahkamah, 2012 ANTARA OCBC BANK (MALAYSIA) BERHAD (No. Syarikat : 295400-W) ...PLAINTIF DAN SANDTHANAM A/L RAMALINGAM (No. Kad Pengenalan : 881115355403) LEGA VEEMALA A/P MANOKARAN (No. Kad Pengenalan : 880515355416) ...DEFENDAN Menurut Perintah Mahkamah Tinggi Malaya di PULAU PINANG mengenai Perintah Jualan dan Perintah bertarikh 26 April 2021 dan 6 Disember 2023, adalah dengan ini diisytiharkan bahawa Timbalan Pendaftar/Penolong Kanan Pendaftar Pusat Operasi e- Lelong di Kuantan AKAN MENJUAL SECARA LELONG AWAM Pada Hari Isnin, 22 Januari 2024, Pada Jam 11:00 pagi, SECARA ELEKTRONIK DI LAMAN WEB e-LELONG, PUSAT OPERASI e-LELONG, KOMPLEKS MAHKAMAH KUANTAN, PAHANG DARUL MAKMUR NOTA: Bakal pembeli adalah dinasihatkan agar membuat carian Hakmilik secara rasmi di Peiabat Tanah dan memeriksa semua tanggungan, bebanan serta mengenal pasti dengan tepat hartanah tersebut sebelum jualan lelongan dijalankan. Sila layari https://eIelong.kehakiman.gov.my/bidderweb BUTIR-BUTIR HAKMILIK: No. Hakmilik : Geran No. 123322 No. Lot : Lot 8238 Mukim/Daerah/Negeri : 14 / Seberang Perai Tengah / Pulau Pinang Pegangan : Hakmilik Kekal No. Petak/No. Tingkat/No. : Bangunan : Keluasan Tanah : 1195.0000000000 kaki persegi : 111.0000000000 meter persegi Pemilik Berdaftar : SANDTHANAM A/L RAMALINGAM, LEGA VEEMALA A/P MANOKARAN Syarat Nyata : Tanah ini hendaklah digunakan untuk tujuan kediaman sahaja Sekatan Kepentingan : Tiada Bebanan / Lain-Lain : Tiada Kawasan Rizab : Kaveat : LOKASI DAN PERIHAL HARTANAH : Hartanah tersebut adalah Rumah teres satu tingkat yang telah diubahsuai yang beralamat pos di 29, Lorong Impian Ria 10, Taman Impian Ria, 14000, Bukit Mertajam, Pulau Pinang. HARGA RIZAB : Hartanah tersebut akan dijual atas “sepertimana sedia ada” tertakluk kepada satu harga rizab sebanyak RM 243,000.00 (RINGGIT MALAYSIA: DUA RATUS EMPAT PULUH TIGA RIBU SAHAJA) dan kepada syarat-syarat jualan yang dilampirkan. Pembida yang berminat hendaklah mendepositkan 10% daripada harga rizab dalam bentuk Bank Draf di atas nama OCBC BANK (MALAYSIA) BERHAD 1 HARI BEKERJA sebelum tarikh lelong awam. Baki harga belian hendaklah dibayar oleh pembida yang berjaya kepada OCBC BANK (MALAYSIA) BERHAD dalam tempoh seratus dua puluh (120) hari dari tarikh jualan. Untuk butir-butir selanjutnya, sila berhubung dengan:- Firma Guaman : GHAZI & LIM Alamat : 19TH FLOOR, PLAZA MWE NO 8, LEBUH FARQUHAR, 10200, PG, MY No. Telefon : 04-2633688 No. Fax : 04-2633188/2627433 No. Rujukan : 03/19/LB/LJL/SZ 322 Notices 322 Notices 322 Notices AN error-strewn Novak Djokovic kickstarted his bid for an 11th Australian Open and unprecedented 25th Grand Slam crown in unconvincing fashion yesterday, dropping a set to fearless teenage qualifier Dino Prizmic. The Serbian superstar struggled to impose himself against the confident Croat on Rod Laver Arena before finally taming the 18-yearold 6-2, 6-7 (5-7), 6-3, 6-4 after a four-hour marathon. While far from his best, the world No. 1 showed no sign of the right wrist problem that hampered his build-up. Djokovic surged to the title last year with a three-set victory over this year’s seventh seed Stefanos Tsitsipas. If he does the same again, he will pass Australian Margaret Court’s all-time Slam record and join only Court (Australian Open) and Rafael Nadal (French Open) in winning 11 times at a single major. Victory stretched his record at Melbourne Park to 90-8 as he reached the second round for a 17th consecutive year. But he was troubled by Prizmic’s speed and booming baseline play, which forced many uncharacteristic errors in a match many thought would be a cruise. “He is an amazing player, he handled himself incredibly well on the court. This is his moment,” Djokovic said. “It could easily have been his match as well. He fought from 4-0 down (in the fourth set) and break points down. He showed great mentality and resilience. He made me really run for my money tonight. “Honestly I have many compliments for him. I love the way he uses every inch of the court, he’s comfortable to come in, he defends incredibly well. “Just an amazing performance for someone who is 18 years old and has never had experience on playing on this stage. Big kudos to his team and his family. “I certainly want to be in his corner. So hopefully he will invite me, because he will make some big things in his career that’s for sure. We are going to see a lot of him in the future.” On his own performance, the Serb added: “I started off very well, for a 36-year-old. But when you think about it,I’m double his age. Reality hits hard tonight. “I’m really trying to enjoy every moment on the court. I struggled in many different moments tonight. But it is credit to him and his game plan. “He had an answer to everything, he was very physical. I had good moments. In some moments I wish I could have played better, more aggressively. “It has been a very short off-season and I am still finding myself physically out on the court but I have a couple of days off before my next match so hopefully I will be able to be at my best for that.” – Reuters/Agencies Wild ride for Rublev ANDREY RUBLEV said admitting to himself that opponent Thiago Seyboth Wild deserved to beat him helped free his mind and battle back from the brink to reach the Australian Open second round yesterday. The Russian fifth seed survived an almighty scare to overcome the Brazilian 7-5, 6-4, 3-6, 4-6, 7-6 (10-6). He appeared to be cantering through after taking the first two sets of a heavy-hitting encounter on Margaret Court Arena. But Seyboth Wild refused to lie down and breaks in the third and fourth sets set up a tantalising decider against the two-time quarterfinalist. As the match reached a dramatic conclusion, Rublev failed to convert four match points on Seyboth Wild’s serve at 5-6 in the fifth set. But he regained his composure in the decisive tie-break, rallying from 2-5 to triumph on his fifth match point after three hours and 42 minutes. The Russian, 26, collapsed to the ground before letting out a guttural roar. Rublev said the key to the turnaround was accepting in the tie-break that Seyboth Wild deserved to win following his storming comeback. “I was, like, OK, he deserves to win,” he said. “At least just finish the match without saying anything, and that’s it. “And somehow those words a bit give me relief. As soon as I (said them I) had a chance, because I was lucky that he didn’t make a first serve, and he served a couple of times second. “I returned really well and really clean, and I was able to come back. At the end of the tiebreak I think I played well.” – AFP Relief for Sakkari after horror streak snapped AFTER first-round exits at the last three Grand Slams, Maria Sakkari said she was relieved to win her opening match at the Australian Open yesterday, the Greek eighth seed advancing with a 6-4, 6-1 victory over Japan’s Nao Hibino. Sakkari has consistently been ranked in the top 10 in recent years but failed to shine at the majors. Reaching the third round at Melbourne Park was the highlight of her Grand Slam appearances last year. However, the 28-year-old looked a player transformed yesterday as she fired off 18 winners and completely dismantled Hibino’s game to clinch the win in just over 70 minutes. “(I’m feeling) super good because after losing three first rounds in the last three Grand Slams, that was very important for me. I was quite nervous before going into the match, but now I feel relieved,” Sakkari told reporters. “Overall, despite the nerves and the anxiety and the stress, I think that I was able to – especially in that second set – play a little bit of the tennis that I’ve been playing the last couple of months. “I’m just feeling very good with my game because I really did some changes. I really worked hard. Believe it or not, I put more hours than usually. I had a very good pre-season. I think things will start clicking sometime soon.” Sakkari also detailed some of the changes she had made during her preparations for the 2024 campaign. “I changed my racket. It’s a completely new frame. After 10 years using the same racket, that was a big change for me,” she added. “I changed a little bit of my forehand, worked a lot on that because I felt like I had a very good forehand, but it could be a lot better. So now I’m feeling that it’s my best shot, very powerful, and for sure the racket has helped.” – Reuters Wozniacki through to next round FORMER champion Caroline Wozniacki advanced to the second round of the Australian Open after four years away as last year’s semifinalist Magda Linette retired due to injury while trailing 6-2, 2-0. Dane Wozniacki came out of retirement last year after the birth of her two children and reached the fourth round of the US Open where she lost to eventual champion Coco Gauff but showed she could still compete at the highest level. The 2018 Melbourne Park champion was up 5-2 in the opening set when 20th seed Linette took a medical timeout after struggling to move, and the ailing Pole was unable to continue shortly after going down by two games in the second set. “It’s never nice to see that. Magda is a good friend of mine. I followed her last year and how unbelievably she played last year here,” said Wozniacki. “Obviously this isn’t how I wanted to finish it. I really hope it’s not too serious and she recovers soon.” Anisimova enjoying herself AMANDA ANISIMOVA said she was feeling refreshed and enjoying herself after upsetting 13th-seeded Liudmila Samsonova on her return to Grand Slam tennis yesterday following a break to deal with mental health issues. The 22- year-old American came out on top in her Australian Open first-round clash 6-3, 6-4, two weeks after returning to action in Auckland following a period of just under eight months away. “I’m here and feeling good, so we made it,“ she said, after stepping back from the sport in May, saying it was “unbearable” being at tennis tournaments, citing mental health issues and burnout. “I’m just here for the journey right now and seeing how much I can progress.” Teen qualifier takes set off world No. 1 in Australian Open thriller Djokovic survives scare Greece’s Maria Sakkari hits a return against Japan’s Nao Hibino (unseen) during their women’s singles match on day one of the Australian Open yesterday. – AFPPIX

SPORTS SPORTS MONDAY | JAN 15, 2024 29 Inter continue title charge Milan sweep past Monza to pull clear of Serie A rivals I NTER MILAN continued their domination of the Serie A title race yesterday by crushing Monza 5-1 and moving five points clear at the summit, while last-gasp drama gave Napoli a 2-1 win over Salernitana. Doubles from Hakan Calhanoglu and Lautaro Martinez and a late strike from Marcus Thuram extended Inter’s advantage on Juventus, who host Sassuolo on Wednesday. “Monza are a good team with good players but if we play like we did today it’ll be hard for anyone to beat us,” said Calhanoglu to Sky Sport. Turkey captain Calhanoglu has shone at Inter since being converted to a deeper midfield role by coach Simone Inzaghi and this season he has scored 10 times in all competitions. “I’ve grown as a player, I have a new role which I like a lot and I always try to give my best for my teammates,” he added. Inter now head to the revamped, four-team Italian Super Cup in Riyadh, where they begin a tough run of fixtures with Thursday’s semifinal against Lazio. A trip to high-flying Fiorentina will follow the Super Cup at the end of the month before a showdown with Juve at the San Siro in early February, by which time their closest rivals could be top of the pile due to having a game in hand. Inter don’t play what would have been this weekend’s home clash with Atalanta until the end of next month due to their Super Cup commitments. However if they continue to play as they did in a blistering display yesterday they should have little to fear from any opposition. Calhanoglu put Inter ahead from the penalty spot in the 12th minute after Roberto Gagliardini handled Martinez’s header, and the away side were two in front moments later. A great team move swept Inter from one end of the pitch to the other and ended with Martinez prodding home from close range. Monza’s Matteo Pessina then had a header ruled out for the tightest of offsides in the 29th minute, and Calhanoglu made sure of the points on the hour mark when he stroked home Thuram’s neat lay-off. Pessina did get his goal from the penalty spot nine minutes later but by then the damage was done. With six minutes remaining Martinez netted a penalty of his own to take his league tally to 18 for the season and four minutes later Thuram capped a perfect evening with a fine individual strike. “You can only compliment a great team, because they were brilliant tonight,” said Monza coach Raffaele Palladino. “We lost a match against a really good side, but we need to clear our heads and just move on to the next game.” Amir Rrahmani capitalised on dreadful Salernitana defending to poke home a stoppagetime winner and move Napoli up to sixth, 20 points behind Inter. The hosts came back from going behind in the 29th minute to a stunning Antonio Candreva strike, with Matteo Politano pulling Napoli level from the penalty spot at the end of the first half before Rrahmani brought the house down. – AFP Dismal Bafana Bafana Afcon record baffles Eto’o AFRICAN legend Samuel Eto’o is puzzled by the generally dismal performances of South Africa at the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) ahead of their 2024 debut against Mali on Wednesday (4am Malausian time). “I am baffled as to why Bafana Bafana (The Boys) have constantly underperformed at the Cup of Nations,” he told AFP during a visit to South Africa. “The South African league is well organised and one of the best in Africa so I do not understand why the national team is not that good. “Football officials need to sit down and plan how to take Bafana to another level and make it the best national team in Africa. “Given the strength of the national league, that is possible,” said Eto’o, a two-time Cup of Nations winner with Cameroon and the leading all-time scorer in the competition with 18 goals. Now president of the Cameroon Football Federation, Eto’o played for numerous European clubs including Barcelona, Inter Milan, Chelsea and Everton during a 22-year career. South Africa return to the Cup of Nations after failing to qualify two years ago, and face Mali, Namibia and Tunisia in Group E in Korhogo, the most northern of five Ivory Coast host cities. Expectations in South Africa are that Bafana must at least draw with Mali or Tunisia and beat Namibia to progress as top-two finishers or one of four highest ranked third-placed teams. After finishing first as hosts, second and third in their first three appearances, Bafana have constantly flopped. They failed to even qualify for four of the last seven editions. When South Africa beat Tunisia in the 1996 final before an 80,000 crowd including then President Nelson Mandela, it was widely believed they would become an African football powerhouse. Second and third places in the next two tournaments seemed to confirm that the country, after decades in the apartheid-induced wilderness, would be constant title challengers. But a quarterfinal loss to 2002 hosts Mali signalled the start of a slump that has continued almost uninterrupted since. – AFP JADON SANCHO said “it was meant to be” after creating a goal in Borussia Dortmund’s 3-0 win at Darmstadt yesterday in his first game since returning to the club on loan from Manchester United. Sancho rejoined Dortmund earlier this week on a six-month loan after a disappointing stint at United which saw him jettisoned by manager Erik ten Hag. But the England international set up a goal for Marco Reus only 20 minutes after coming off the bench. Dortmund were holding on to a 1-0 lead thanks to an early Julian Brandt goal against the Bundesliga’s bottom club Darmstadt when Sancho found Reus, who tapped in from close range. “I feel like it was meant to be, me coming back and seeing Marco again,” Sancho, 23, told Sky Germany. “He’s a great friend of mine… I’m happy to set up his goal today.” Youssoufa Moukoko added a third in injury time. Sancho said he “felt at home” after coming back to Dortmund. It was Sancho’s ninth assist for Reus and his 64th in total for Dortmund. Sancho first signed for Dortmund as a 17-year-old in 2017 and spent four years at the club, winning the German Cup in 2021 before moving to United for a fee of £73 million (RM423m). Sancho had been frozen out at United for most of the season after becoming involved in a public spat with Ten Hag and had not played since August. “Just to be happy again, to be on the pitch and to help the team,” Sancho said when asked what were his goals at Dortmund. Reus said: “(He’s) simply a difference maker… in each game he’s good for a goal or assist. “I love it… Unbelievable to play with him and I’m happy he made his way back to us. “He hasn’t played for seven or eight months, the assist will give him some self confidence.” Dortmund coach Edin Terzic, who was interim boss in Sancho’s final season of his first spell at the German club said: “We’re all happy for Jadon. “What we cannot forget is we are talking (about) Jadon’s talent, but he’s still a young player, and he’s experienced a lot in the past few years. “He showed us we’re not finished with each other.” The win, Dortmund’s first in the league since November, took Terzic’s side to within three points of fourth-placed RB Leipzig, who lost 1-0 at home to Eintracht Frankfurt earlier an earlier match. – AFP Assist ‘was meant to be’, says Sancho ssist ‘was meant to be’ , says Sancho SHORTS Berenguer drives Bilbao to derby win ALEX BERENGUER’S brace fired Athletic Bilbao to third in La Liga after a 2-1 Basque derby triumph over Real Sociedad yesterday. The 28-year-old Spanish forward, filling the gap left by talisman Inaki Williams’s departure for the Africa Cup of Nations with Ghana, made a decisive impact as Athletic moved ahead of Spanish champions Barcelona on goal difference. The Catalans, fourth, are in Saudi Arabia for the Spanish Super Cup final against league leaders Real Madrid. Real Sociedad pulled a goal back late on through Mikel Oyarzabal but could not find a leveller at the vibrant San Mames. Athletic are hoping to finish in the top four to qualify for next season’s Champions League. “There’s a long way to go, but we’re up there, although we saw what happened last season (Athletic finished eighth), so we have to move calmly,” said their coach Ernesto Valverde. Valverde’s side are seven points behind leaders Real Madrid and Girona, second, who visit winless Almeria overnight aiming to become solo leaders. Real Sociedad, sixth, are now nine points away from the top four. “We didn’t get stuck into the battles with the right aggression,” Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino told DAZN. “It was a tough defeat here today, we knew the points were important, but not decisive, there’s a long way to go in La Liga.” Elephants win Cup of Nations opener SEKO FOFANA’S stunning early goal set hosts Ivory Coast on the way to a 2-0 win over Guinea-Bissau before a euphoric crowd as the Africa Cup of Nations kicked off yesterday. Saudi-based Fofana scored inside four minutes at the Ebimpe Olympic Stadium, on the northern outskirts of Ivory Coast’s economic capital Abidjan. It was a goal worthy of winning almost any game but it was followed by Jean-Philippe Krasso’s second-half strike as the Elephants claimed all three points in the Group A encounter. They were the better team, albeit against one of the tournament’s minnows, as they look to make the most of home advantage to win a third AFCON crown. “We have been waiting for this moment for a very long time. We didn’t fall into any trap, we won the game, and even if not everything was perfect we are very pleased,” said Fofana. “We will keep working humbly and try to correct the little errors we made, but I thought we played well. “We are very pleased to have given everyone who came here something to shout about, as well as everyone who watched us on television.” One source of disappointment for the hosts is that just 36,858 fans attended the game inside a 60,000- seat stadium. “From what I could see the stadium looked full. We had great support,” insisted Fofana. Dortmund’s Marco Reus (left), Jadon Sancho and Youssoufa Moukoko celebrate during their Bundesliga match. – AFPPIX

SPORTS SPORTS MONDAY | JAN 15, 2024 30 5746/2024 14/01/2024 (SUN) 1835 6507 7745 8767 8609 9590 6563 5829 5415 8274 7288 8252 9164 1883 7511 9787 4277 2957 2485 1908 2210 8064 6864 8,218,655.87 1835 1835 1835 7745 7745 6507 7745 7745 6507 6507 1835 6507 676,086.73 1835 6507 7745 DOG 49227 49488 9488 488 54365 8 8 9 9 878199 78199 8199 199 87819 8781 878 8 7 5,345,110.70 2,927,565.93 211 23 30 50 53 350,180.51 73 9 17 26 53 5 6 18 29 38 49 21,733,865.99 12 887 012 + OX 951 411 + SNAKE 198 732 + SNAKE Draw Date: 14/01/24 (Sun) Draw No: 5693/24 Venue: PERAK TURF CLUB 7012 1411 8732 4054 + 7786 9670 + 6116 7272 + 1335 1755 + 4601 5680 + 5070 4575 + 4957 3169 + 0884 5241 + 2455 1048 + 1371 9786 + 2193 RM5,995,778.50 7012 + 1411 1411 + 7012 7012 + 8732 8732 + 7012 1411 + 8732 8732 + 1411 RM334,873.20 RM200,000.00 RM2,246,817.00 RM364,861.00 654 054 257 786 549 670 826 116 687 272 931 335 741 755 434 601 915 680 235 070 124 575 444 957 503 169 870 884 695 241 192 455 261 048 901 371 249 786 142 193 012 411 732 RM766,161.40 012 + 411 + 732 411 + 732 + 012 012 + 732 + 411 732 + 012 + 411 411 + 012 + 732 732 + 411 + 012 Fortune Ang Pow now available at all Da Ma Cai outlets! Trouble at the Bridge? M Pochettino drops mysterious hint about ‘something affecting’ Chelsea AURICIO POCHETTINO admitted something had affected his Chelsea side in the build-up to their hard-fought 1-0 win over west London derby rivals Fulham. Cole Palmer scored the only goal of the game from the penalty spot, although the Blues were unable to kill off the match but the result has provided some much-needed relief for the club following their midweek Carabao Cup defeat to Middlesbrough. It was the only goal and came at the end of a first half where almost every shot was blocked at the edge of the box and every pass destined for the area was lifeless. However, Pochettino hinted that there was a reason for Chelsea’s flat performance. The manager said: “Of course, the first half wasn’t the first half that we planned. Something happened before the game that I don’t know how to explain but I think it affected the team. “But in the second half we started really well, for 30 minutes we should have scored another goal and killed the game. “But when it’s open like this in the last few minutes we concede some set pieces and they have good potential in these situations and we defended well and I think it was good for us to suffer a little bit but I think this game will help us grow.” Even when pressed for an answer, the manager declined to mention what it was that could have affected the performance. Despite the slightly lacklustre performance, Chelsea have notched up three successive wins in the Premier League. Raheem Sterling has won a number of penalties in the Premier League across his spell at four different clubs, and it was a foul on him by Issa Diop that provided the hosts with the crucial breakthrough. When asked about Sterling’s action, Pochettino said: “I think it’s good for the team it was a good action and a good performance to provide the penalty for the team and Palmer’s execution was excellent because he provides the team good things and helped to achieve the three points to help us to be in a better position in the table.” With nine goals since signing from Manchester City in September, Palmer has been one of the few bright spots in Chelsea’s troubled campaign. “We believe in him, even when he didn’t score with the three big chances in Middlesbrough. He has the quality to play,” Pochettino said. Fulham boss Marco Silva claimed Chelsea defender Malo Gusto should have been sent off for a first half foul on Willian that only earned a booking after a VAR check. “We have to talk about the red card for Gusto, it was clear. In 10 of those moments, nine times it is a red card,” he said. – The Independent/AFP Leicester slump to shock loss at Coventry COVENTRY struck three times in the final 11 minutes plus stoppage time to beat Leicester 3-1 and inflict just the Championship leaders’ fourth defeat of the season. Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall’s controversial penalty had given the visitors the lead against the run of play on 44 minutes. But Leicester were reduced to 10 men in first-half stoppage time when Abdul Fatawu was shown a straight red card. Victory maintains Coventry’s upward momentum as a nine-game unbeaten run has carried last season’s beaten playoff finalists back into the top six. The home side had enjoyed much the better of the first half but still found themselves behind when Bobby Thomas was penalised for wiping out DewsburyHall after he took the ball. The Leicester midfielder coolly slotted home the resulting spot-kick. But the visitors lost their heads moments later when Fatawu, who had earlier been warned to calm down by teammate Wout Faes, cleaned out Jake Bidwell and was instantly shown a red card. It took Coventry time to make their man advantage count, but Callum O’Hare opened the floodgates when the midfielder curled home from inside the box. Milan van Ewijk then put the Sky Blues ahead on 88 minutes after Leicester failed to clear a corner. And O’Hare set the seal on a famous Midlands derby win for the home side in stoppage time when he volleyed home. Second-placed Ipswich took advantage of Leicester’s slip to cut the gap to seven points as they came from behind to beat Sunderland 2-1 at Portman Road. Conor Chaplin headed the winner 15 minutes from fulltime after Kayden Jackson had cancelled out Jack Clarke’s 26th-minute opener for Sunderland. Southampton moved within 10 points of Leicester with a 4-0 rout of Sheffield Wednesday at St Mary’s. Goals from Che Adams, Adam Armstrong, Ryan Fraser and Sekou Mara kept the Saints, who are now unbeaten in 19 games, in the hunt for automatic promotion. Leeds also kept up the pressure with a 3-0 win at Cardiff whileWest Brom maintained their challenge by thrashing Blackburn 4-1 at The Hawthorns. Michael Carrick’s Middlesbrough won 3-1 at Millwall to cap a memorable week after beating Chelsea 1-0 in Tuesday’s League Cup semifinal first leg. Jordan James scored a last-gasp equaliser as Birmingham claimed a 2-2 draw against Swansea at St Andrews in Tony Mowbray’s first game in charge of the hosts. – AFP █ BY SONIA TWIGG Fulham’s Harry Wilson (left) tackles Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez during their Premier League match. – AFPPIX

SPORTS SPORTS MONDAY | JAN 15, 2024 31 THE coaching team of the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM), led by Rexy Mainaky, needs to present a “new formula” to Malaysian badminton players to ensure they consistently perform well and accumulate points to qualify for the 2024 Paris Olympics. Former national singles player Datuk James Selvaraj expressed concern seeing Malaysian shuttlers starting on the wrong foot in the World Badminton Federation (BWF) World Tour series when there were no Malaysian players in the semifinals and finals of the 2024 Malaysia Open that started on Tuesday and ends today (Jan 9-14). He emphasised that the coaching staff and players should be aware of the high expectations of the Malaysian people to witness their favourite athletes display highimpact performances, especially when the qualification period for the 2024 Olympic Games, which began in May last year, will end in April this year. “It’s very disappointing not to see our players playing in our own tournament. They didn’t even make it past the quarterfinals, so it’s not very good. Hopefully they learn their lesson and coaches get together and work on a new strategy. “Why did the players lose, and find a solution and start working on their mistakes now. Not every time lose in the first round and second rounds. In the next few months, the programme got to change. Rexy must make sure new things are implemented,” he told Bernama. James added: “I have said this many times. Did we get the psychologists? Did we get the mental therapists to talk to the players? … they all have to sit together and come up with some ideas. If not, what should we do? “They were not attacking enough or they were not pushing enough to get the points (reffering to the Malaysian Open) They should be doing what the opponents have done. Then they can win but if they don’t, how can they win?” he said Former national men’s doubles player Koo Kien Keat said: “The most important thing is the players’ will to win because if not, no matter how much advice is given, it won’t work. Victory is not only for the Malaysia Open but also for other major tournaments like the Olympic Games. “Athletes can use social media to show their personal lives and training, but they must remember we are not celebrities. “You will get viral and people’s attention, but I think you need to balance it because results are the number one priority for an athlete, not just having a large following,” he said. – Bernama THE moment all Malaysian football fans have been waiting for is just around the corner as Malaysia prepare to face Jordan in their opening 2024 Asia Cup Group E match at the Al Janoub Stadium tomorrow (1.30am Malaysian time). The match will see Malaysia’s South Korean coach Kim Pan Gon lead his charges in the Asia Cup competition after a 17-year lapse since participating as the host country in 2007. Though on paper Jordan who are ranked 87th in the FIFA World Ranking are the favourites compared with Malaysia who are ranked 130th, the Harimau Malaya squad will be hoping to create history by collecting at least a point in the match to boost the team’s chances of making the last 16th. Based on statistics, Malaysia has failed to register a win against Jordan in five previous meetings, losing three and drawing two and the last time Malaysia played Jordan was during the an international friendly in 2001 which ended in a 0-4 loss. However, Jordan, coached by Moroccan Hussein Ammouta, has not been enjoying an impressive track record lately because they were able to register only three wins in 11 matches. Malaysia headed to Qatar on the backdrop of an impressive run of results and confidence rising to the clouds after some outstanding results against higher ranked teams in the world, winning seven and drawing two since March last year. Earlier, Malaysia had played out a 2-2 against Syria, a 1-1 draw against China during two Tier 1 International friendlies in September and registered another 2-2 draw against Syria in Doha, during a friendly match last week. If Malaysia aspire to register a positive result in their encounter against Jordan, they need to defuse the threat posed by one of Jordan’s prolific strikers Hamzah Al Dardour who also happens to be the country’s top scorer with 33 goals thus far. – Bernama All jackpot amounts stated above are for this Draw. Subject to T&Cs of the Scheme. Please visit to www.magnum4d.my for more info. THE BIGGER PLAY IS TO PLAY RESPONSIBLY 982/24 14/01/2024 2205 1216 6318 4433 3815 5262 5749 2293 4643 6174 1048 9666 6441 0770 7629 5347 4885 5018 6548 5523 2160 7604 1193 RM7,043,713.82 RM147,844.35 2205 + 1216 1216 + 2205 6318 + 2205 2205 + 6318 1216 + 6318 6318 + 1216 11 17 21 28 30 33 34 35 22 32 RM4,388,382.24 RM112,423.93 0 5 1 6 1 8 0 5 1 6 1 5 1 6 1 8 0 5 1 6 1 6 1 8 0 5 1 6 1 8 0 5 1 8 1 6 0 2 Different approach Selvaraj says Rexy needs to serve ‘new formula’ to shuttlers for Olympic qualification ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE: Chelsea 1 (Palmer 45+3-pen) Fulham 0, Newcastle 2 (Isak 35, Gordon 37) Manchester City 3 (Silva 26, De Bruyne 74, Bobb 90+1). P W D L F A Pts Liverpool 20 13 6 1 43 18 45 Man City 20 13 4 3 48 23 43 Aston Villa 20 13 3 4 43 27 42 Arsenal 20 12 4 4 37 20 40 Tottenham 20 12 3 5 42 29 39 West Ham 20 10 4 6 33 30 34 Brighton 20 8 7 5 38 33 31 Chelsea 21 9 4 8 35 31 31 Man Utd 20 10 1 9 22 27 31 Newcastle 21 9 2 10 41 32 29 Wolves 20 8 4 8 30 31 28 Bournemouth 19 7 4 8 28 35 25 Fulham 21 7 3 11 28 36 24 Crystal Palace 20 5 6 9 22 29 21 Nottm Forest 20 5 5 10 24 35 20 Brentford 19 5 4 10 26 31 19 Everton 20 8 2 10 24 28 16 Luton 20 4 4 12 24 38 16 Burnley 21 3 3 15 21 42 12 Sheff Utd 20 2 3 15 15 49 9 CHAMPIONSHIP: Birmingham 2 Swansea 2, Cardiff 0 Leeds 3, Coventry 3 Leicester 1, Huddersfield 1 Plymouth 1, Ipswich 2 Sunderland 1, Millwall 1 Middlesbrough 3, Preston 2 Bristol City 0, Rotherham 0 Stoke 1, Southampton 4 Sheffield Wednesday 0, West Brom 4 Blackburn 1. TOP 5 P W D L F A Pts Leicester 27 21 2 4 55 21 65 Ipswich 27 17 7 3 50 34 58 Southampton 27 16 7 4 50 31 55 Leeds 27 15 6 6 48 25 51 West Brom 27 13 6 8 40 25 45 LA LIGA: Las Palmas 3 (Kirian 8, 63, Herzog 51) Villarreal 0, Mallorca 1 (Larin 43) Celta Vigo 1 (Aspas 10), Athletic Bilbao 2 (Berenguer 30, 42) Real Sociedad 1 (Oyarzabal 88), Real Betis 1 (Isco 76) Granada 0. TOP 5 P W D L F A Pts Real Madrid 19 15 3 1 40 11 48 Girona 19 15 3 1 46 24 48 Bilbao 20 12 5 3 38 20 41 Barcelona 19 12 5 2 36 22 41 Atletico 19 12 2 5 39 23 38 SERIE A: Genoa 0 Torino 0, Monza 1 (Pessina 69-pen) Inter Milan 5 (Calhanoglu 12-pen, 60, Martinez 14, 84-pen, Thuram 88), Napoli 2 (Politano 45+3-pen, Rrahmani 90+6) Salernitana 1 (Candreva 29), Verona 2 (Djuric 3, Ngonge 56) Empoli 1 (Zurkowski 64). TOP 5 P W D L F A Pts Inter Milan 20 16 3 1 49 10 51 Juventus 19 14 4 1 29 12 46 AC Milan 19 12 3 4 35 20 39 Fiorentina 19 10 3 6 27 19 33 Bologna 19 8 8 3 22 16 32 BUNDESLIGA: SV Darmstadt 0 Borussia Dortmund 3, RB Leipzig 0 Eintracht Frankfurt 1, Freiburg 0 Union Berlin 0, Mainz 1 Wolfsburg 1, Cologne 1 Heidenheim 1, Augsburg 0 Bayer Leverkusen 1. TOP 5 P W D L F A Pts Leverkusen 17 14 3 0 47 12 45 B. Munich 16 13 2 1 52 15 41 Stuttgart 16 11 1 4 37 19 34 RB Leipzig 17 10 3 4 38 18 33 Dortmund 17 8 6 3 33 25 30 FRENCH LIGUE 1: Monaco 1 Reims 3, Rennes 2 Nice 0. TOP 5 P W D L F A Pts Paris SG 17 12 4 1 42 14 40 Nice 18 10 5 3 19 11 35 Monaco 18 10 3 5 34 25 33 Brest 17 9 4 4 25 15 31 Reims 18 9 2 7 25 24 29 AFRICA CUP OF NATIONS: Ivory Coast 2 Guinea-Bissau 0. ASIAN CUP Group A: China 0 Tajikistan 0. Group B: Australia 2 India 0, Uzbekistan 0 Syria 0. RESULTS & STANDINGS Harimau Malaya can overcome Jordan’s ego National head coach, Kim Pan Gon (left) and captain, Matthew Davies during a press conference before the 2023 Asian Cup Group E match between Malaysia and Jordan yesterday. – BERNAMAPIX James Selvaraj. – BERNAMAPIX

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: newsdesk@thesundaily.com • Tel (Advertising): 03-7784 8888 Fax: 03-7784 4424 Email: advertise@thesundaily.com SCAN ME MONDAY | JAN 15, 2024 or download app from the App Store or Google PlayTM . www.thesun.my Free access to iPaper PDF Download SCAN ME Malaysian Paper Read iPaper at Malaysian Paper Malaysian Paper Inter continue title charge -Story - on page 30 Story on page 29 Trouble at the Bridge? ‘He is a He is a legend’ Guardiola expects ‘special’ De Bruyne to boost Man City’s title push PEP GUARDIOLA is relieved to have “special player” Kevin De Bruyne back after he inspired Manchester City to victory at Newcastle on his return to Premier League action. The 32-year-old Belgium international, who had not made a League appearance since August because of injury, endured a disappointing start to his evening on Tyneside when he drilled a free-kick harmlessly into the defensive wall with his first touch. But he drew City level within five minutes of his introduction and then set up fellow substitute Oscar Bobb to snatch a 3-2 victory in stoppage time. Asked about his contribution, Guardiola said with a smile: “I am so disappointed in him and upset and grumpy because the freekick, he didn’t score a goal. “Apart from that, I had the feeling he was not ready for 90 minutes after five months. We cannot forget – people say, ‘OK he’s ready, he can play after five months 90 minutes’. “It’s not the case, so that is why he was in that situation. But we had control of the game and his impact in the last 35 minutes, the goal, the assist and how many times he arrived at the byline for the crosses… “He is a special player. He is a legend, he is beloved by our people and he is fresh in his mind because five months is a lot of time. Hopefully in the second part of the season, he can help us be there until the end.” City looked to be on their way when Bernardo Silva cheekily backheeled Kyle Walker’s cross past Martin Dubravka, but superb finishes from Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon inside two minutes put the Magpies ahead. They retained their advantage until 16 minutes from time when De Bruyne, who had been introduced as a replacement for Silva five minutes earlier, levelled with an astute finish before setting up fellow substitute Bobb to win it in stoppage time. Assessing a win which took City back into second place behind Liverpool to enhance their title hopes, Guardiola said: “Why should we not try it again? “We have won (the title) three times in a row, five in the last six, so why not? It’s really important because Liverpool are flying over the last month and we have to go to Anfield, so it’s better to be close to them.” Bruyne said he missed playing football and influencing games while he has been out with a hamstring injury. “I enjoyed myself. It was crazy,” the Belgium told TNT Sports. “I missed this. I had a big injury and I needed the time.” Of his performance, he added: “I think it was more willpower than anything else. “I know I’m not able to do that for 90 minutes at the moment. I can put in a shift for 30 minutes. I feel it in my lungs, especially with the cold.” For Magpies boss Eddie Howe, there was pride in a fine display, but one which ended in disappointment to join a series of near misses this season against the likes of Liverpool and Paris St Germain. “There was so much promise and so many good things, so to be sat here with nothing is very, very painful,” Howe said. “The lads have given so much physically in that game. The first half was everything that we want to be. “We wanted to be aggressive and front foot. When you do that, you take risks, but those risks were worth it. “You could see that it paid off at the other end. We still wanted to do that in the second half, we still wanted to play the same way, but we just couldn’t deliver that in the second half.” On De Bruyne’s contribution, Howe added: “You just hope he’s rusty and not up to full speed yet, but then he comes on and delivers that and you think, ‘Well, there’s no rustiness there’.”– The Independent █ BY DAMIAN SPELLMAN Manchester City's Josko Gvardiol (centre) in action with Newcastle United's Sean Longstaff (left), Miguel Almiron (back) and Bruno Guimaraes (2nd right). – REUTERSPIX -Story on page 31 Malaysia can overcome Jordan’s ego