The Sun - 14 December 2023

Malaysian Paper www.thesun.my RM1.00 PER COPY RM1 THURSDAY DEC 14, 2023 SCAN ME No. 8415 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195) Political analysts say shake-up positive move to address people’s concerns and reflects fine balance of political considerations with strategic needs. Food security threat spurs interest in smart farming Many young farmers actively incorporating new techniques into agricultural practices to boost yields. Kelantanese Siti Hajar Che Satar, 20, using a drone at a padi field in Kampung Lepah Selising, Pasir Putih. She is among a new crop of young farmers using smart farming technology to increase yield. – BERNAMAPIC No pay for 169 civil servants with mule accounts Serious consequences for those whose accounts are used to collect or transfer funds stolen or laundered from illegal activities: BNM Report on hpage 2 Report on hpage 6 - Report on page 4 Cabinet reshuffle gets thumbs-up humbs-up

THURSDAY | DEC 14, 2023 2 Permaisuri Selangor opens cancer facility PETALING JAYA: The Tengku Permaisuri of Selangor Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin opened the KanWork House, a place designed to provide holistic healing for those affected by cancer. Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin arrived at the premises in Damansara Utama at 10.45am yesterday and was welcomed by Datin Seri Masdiana Muhamad, the wife of Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari, and KanWork chairman Dr Mazanah Muhamad. Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin, who is also the royal patron of KanWork, said cancer is a chronic disease that is on the rise. “Those diagnosed with cancer need support in facing this challenge. Additionally, caregivers of patients need to be acknowledged and given attention, as they are the backbone of the healing process. “This is the role of KanWork, to provide support to those affected by cancer,” she said in her opening speech. Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin urged all parties to continue supporting the noble efforts undertaken by KanWork, including making contributions to help those affected by the disease. – Bernama Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin officiating at the launch of KanWork House yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC 160,000 MyKid cards to be distributed KUALA LUMPUR: The National Registration Department (NRD) is printing 160,000 delayed MyKid (children’s identity) cards, which will be distributed gradually, said Deputy Home Minister Datuk Seri Shamsul Anuar Nasarah. He said parents or guardians could use birth certificates temporarily for any business with the government or private entities while waiting for MyKid cards to be ready. “Birth certificates are valid governmentissued identification documents, and government agencies and private entities have been informed to prioritise their use while waiting for the cards.” “The Home Ministry through the NRD is always committed to resolving the backlog of MyKid applications,” he said in the Dewan Negara yesterday. He was replying to Senator Datuk Aziz Ariffin, who wished to know about the delay in the issuance of MyKid for newborns following the global microchip shortage. Shamsul Anuar said the MyKid card issue would not recur next year as the NRD is currently in the procurement process of three million identification cards to meet the demand. “The NRD has made various efforts and has already resolved the delay in the issuance of 140,000 MyKid cards for 2021 and 2022. We have approximately 15,000 MyKid cards that are yet to be printed and are expected to be ready by the end of the month.” – Bernama Cabinet reshuffle long overdue, say analysts PETALING JAYA: The Cabinet reshuffle announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on Tuesday was long overdue and a positive move to address various concerns raised by the people, said political analysts. The analysts agreed that changes in the portfolios of some ministers and the infusion of new faces in the Cabinet reflect a fine balance of political considerations with strategic needs. Nusantara Academy of Strategic Research political analyst Dr Azmi Hassan said matters concerning the economy, health and education have been sources of concern for the people in recent months. He said the appointments of Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan as the new foreign minister and Datuk Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir as higher education minister are noteworthy. “The reshuffling of three Umno ministers appears driven by political considerations,” he said, adding that the foreign policy trajectory is unlikely to undergo a drastic o‘Changes of some ministers, infusion of new faces reflect balance of political factors with strategic needs’ █ BY SIVANISVARRY MORHAN [email protected] transformation due to the changes. He said Mohamad Hasan’s transition from the Defence Ministry to Foreign Ministry does not signal a significant shift in foreign policy. On the appointment of Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof to oversee the energy portfolio, Azmi said it is a strategic move that aligns with Anwar’s emphasis on renewable energy and smart technology in the energy sector. With regard to the deputy finance minister’s position, he said Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan would take a more prominent role in shaping fiscal policy. He said Amir Hamzah’s experience as a finance professional would bring a specialised perspective to fiscal matters. Universiti Teknologi Mara political analyst Dr Abdul Aziz Azizam concurred that the Cabinet reshuffle was driven by political and strategic requirements. “The decision to appoint new ministers, including Gobind Singh Deo, Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad, Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani, Steven Sim Chee Keong and Amir Hamzah is to address specific needs.” As for splitting the Communications and Digital Ministry into two entities, Abdul Aziz said it is in response to the need for specialised expertise in the digital realm, which Gobind has. “The reshuffle serves to allocate significant functions to each political party within Pakatan Harapan, to ensure balance and stability. It also strategically positions Umno within the unity government.” On Lim Hui Ying’s appointment as deputy finance minister, after having served as deputy education minister, Abdul Aziz said it signifies DAP’s power and influence within the unity government. “DAP has been a crucial source of strength and support for the government. Given its strong performance and substantial parliamentary representation, it is natural for the party to play a more prominent role in the government.” He said the replacement of Dr Zaliha Mustafa with Dzulkefly is about current needs. “Measuring performance within a year is challenging, and these changes may be driven by the current needs of the administration and the people’s expectations. “Zaliha had faced pressing issues that impacted the Health Ministry. Therefore, the new appointment aims to enhance the effectiveness and popularity of the ministry, ultimately benefiting the government.” Abdul Aziz said any Cabinet reshuffle is multifaceted and serves to ensure effective governance, setting the stage for the nation’s progress in key areas. PM open to talks on Sultan’s proposals KUALA LUMPUR: Every view and proposal can be taken up for discussion without ignoring the Federal Constitution, system of parliamentary democracy and principles of constitutional monarchy, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. He said this includes the Sultan of Johor Sultan Ibrahim Almarhum Sultan Iskandar’s suggestion that more responsibilities be given to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, including direct oversight of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) and Petronas. “We can discuss it but the principles of the Constitution, parliamentary democracy and constitutional monarchy will be defended. “So there shouldn’t be any concern over statements and views, including from the Sultan of Johor. These views can be taken up for discussions but will not influence national policies and our principle of constitutional monarchy.” Anwar was speaking after launching an exhibition, “A Journey through Islamic Art” and “Alif Lam Ra: Contemporary Muslim Calligraphy”, held in conjunction with the 25th anniversary celebration of the Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia on Tuesday. He was commenting on former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad’s statement which seemed to express disagreement with Sultan Ibrahim’s suggestion regarding MACC and Petronas. Anwar added that he had no problems with the views expressed by Mahathir. “He (Mahathir) was just expressing his views, and we (can) discuss it.” – Bernama Support for UN ceasefire resolution KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia supported and cosponsored the United Nations General Assembly’s (Unga) draft resolution demanding an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza, said the Foreign Ministry. The resolution, “Protection of civilians and upholding legal and humanitarian obligations”, was adopted yesterday during the resumed 10th Emergency Special Session of Unga, with an overwhelming 153 affirmative votes, 10 against and 23 abstentions. The ministry said the resounding support for the resolution by a group of cross-regional countries reflected the unwavering commitment of the international community to finding a just, lasting, and peaceful settlement to the PalestineIsrael conflict, the ministry said in a statement. “This is made even more urgent given the grim humanitarian tragedy.” – Bernama

THURSDAY | DEC 14, 2023 3 DEPUTY MINISTERS Datuk R. Ramanan Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development Datuk Aiman Athirah Sabu Local Government Development Fuziah Salleh Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Datuk Mustapha @ Mohd Yunus Sakmud Higher Education Datuk Mohamad Alamin Foreign Affairs Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan Tourism, Arts and Culture Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan Works Teo Nie Ching Communications Datuk Seri Dr Shamsul Anuar Nasarah Home Affairs Datuk Seri Huang Tiong Sii Natural Resources and Sustainability Datuk Hanifah Hajar Taib Economy Adly Zahari Defence Datuk Rubiah Wang Rural and Regional Development Datuk Mohammad Yusof Apdal Science, Technology and Innovation Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir Energy Transition and Public Utilities Datuk Seri Noraini Ahmad Women, Family and Community Development Datuk Hasbi Habibollah Transport M. Kulasegaran Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Arthur Joseph Kurup Agriculture and Food Security Liew Chin Tong Investment, Trade and Industry Lim Hui Ying Finance Datuk Chan Foong Hin Plantation and Commodities Datuk Ugak Kumbong Digital Datuk Seri Abdul Rahman Mohamad Human Resources Saraswathy Kandasami National Unity Zulkifli Hassan Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni Health Adam Adli Abd Halim Youth and Sports Wong Kah Woh Education Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani Plantation and Commodities Gobind Singh Deo Digital Steven Sim Chee Keong Human Resources Dr Zaliha Mustafa Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang National Unity Datuk Mohd Na’im Mokhtar Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad Health Hannah Yeoh Youth and Sports Fadhlina Sidek Education Datuk Ewon Benedick Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development Datuk Seri Zambry Abd Kadir Higher Education Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing Tourism, Arts and Culture Fahmi Fadzil Communications Chang Lih Kang Science, Technology and Innovation Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri Women, Family and Community Development Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad Natural Resources and Sustainability Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin Defence Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan Foreign Affairs Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi Works Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail Home Affairs Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz Investment, Trade and Industry Anthony Loke Transport Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu Agriculture and Food Security Rafizi Ramli Economy Nga Kor Ming Local Government Development Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan Finance II Datuk Seri atuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim nwar Ibrahim Prime Minister and rime Minister and Finance Minister Finance Minister Datuk Seri atuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi r Ahmad Zahid Hamidi Deputy Prime Minister Deputy Prime Minister and Rural and Regional nd Rural and Regional Development Minister evelopment Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof atuk Seri Fadillah Yusof Deputy Prime Minister and Energy eputy Prime Minister and Energy Transition and Public Utilities Minister ransition and Public Utilities Minister (also in charge of Sabah, Sarawak Affairs) also in charge of Sabah, Sarawak Affairs) MINISTERS

THURSDAY | DEC 14, 2023 4 @thesundaily FOLLOW ON Malaysian Paper INSTAGRAM PETALING JAYA: Universiti Malaya Institute of Biological Sciences Assoc Prof Dr Muhamad Shakirin Mispan said concerns about food security have sparked interest among farmers to embrace smart farming technologies. “The increasing enthusiasm of many young farmers who are actively seeking ways to incorporate these techniques into their agricultural practices to increase yields is particularly encouraging.” However, Muhamad Shakirin said a challenge lies in the absence of comprehensive cost-benefit analyses that illustrates the return on investment for farmers when integrating such technologies. “The integration of technology in agriculture has substantially transformed the traditional narrative of ‘blood and sweat’ associated with physical labour in the fields. “Smart technologies now offer farmers newfound opportunities in remote monitoring and management of their land. “These technologies serve as useful instruments in assessing crop nutrition and water requirements, among others.” He also said farmers often face hurdles in adopting smart technologies due to the initial investment costs, limited access to technology in rural areas and a lack of awareness on its potential benefits. Muhamad Shakirin said the environmental factors in smart agriculture technology differ between urban and rural areas. “When these innovations are correctly implemented, they hold the potential to enhance sustainable farming practices in both settings. Precision technology enables farmers to manage water and fertiliser usage more effectively. This minimises their impact on the environment by optimising resources. “In urban areas, vertical farming and hydroponics enable cultivation in limited spaces. This again minimises the ecological footprint associated with traditional agricultural expansion.” He also said the technology used could help to reduce the overall environmental effect of agriculture in urban and rural settings to raise output and profitability. Universiti Teknologi Mara senior economics lecturer Dr Mohamad Idham Md Razak said agriculture technology advancements have significantly increased productivity and efficiency in Malaysia, leading to notable economic gains. “Precision agriculture techniques, including soil mapping and targeted fertiliser application, have optimised resource use, resulting in increased crop yields.” He said investments in research and development have produced high-yield, disease-resistant crop varieties, while greenhouse cultivation has ensured yearround production with enhanced crop quality. He also said economic indicators affirm such progress after the Agriculture Department reported a 4.2% increase in total production since 2022. The World Bank also noted an 8% rise in the value of agricultural exports. “The UN Food and Agriculture Organisation revealed a 15% reduction in pesticide use per hectare from 2015 to 2020, while the Malaysian Investment Development Authority reported a significant RM2.5 billion investment in the agricultural technology sector this year.” Mohamad Idham said technology plays a pivotal role in enhancing the competitiveness of Malaysia’s agricultural products globally. “It contributes to increase productivity and efficiency through precision agriculture, mechanisation and controlled environment agriculture.” Smart farming technologies gaining traction oOption allows better water and fertiliser usage, reducing impact on environment and optimising resources 10 sen doughnuts hit sweet spot KUALA KRAI: While most traders are raising their prices due to increased cost of raw materials, former chef Ghazali Osman, 50, is selling his doughnuts at 10 sen each – the same price as when he started six years ago. He said he started selling doughnuts in 2018 when he had to quit working at a hotel in Kuala Lumpur to accompany his wife, Roshamidah Che Ibrahim, 44, to her village to care for his ailing in-laws, Bernama reported. He later decided to use his 30 years experience working in a hotel to set up the business. In order to ensure a stable following, he sold his product at 10 sen apiece. Ghazali said he still makes a profit and the doughnuts were now more in demand, especially from school hostels and canteens. █ BY RAVEEN AINGARAN [email protected] S’gor rejuvenation project next year SHAH ALAM: Selangor State Development Corporation (PKNS) CEO Datuk Mahmud Abbas said a city rejuvenation project in Shah Alam is expected to be implemented in the third quarter of next year. Mahmud also said the project, which is estimated to cost about RM2 billion, will start with the area in front of the Dato Menteri LRT3 station, with the corporation planning to restore some buildings in the area. He said the project, which will be carried out around PKNS Square, will involve several plots of land in the town centre of Section 14, among them Kompleks PKNS Shah Alam, SACC Mall and near the LRT3 station. – Bernama Enclosed is my payment of RM payable to SUN MEDIA CORPORATION SDN BHD. 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Box 179, Jalan Sultan, 46720 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan Attn: Subscription Email: [email protected] *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

THURSDAY | DEC 14, 2023 5 Traders raise stink over chicken manure BAGAN SERAI: The Agriculture and Food Security Ministry does not encourage the use of chicken manure, although there is no legal provision that prevents the use of such fertiliser. Its minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu said the fertiliser causes discomfort due to its foul smell and could damage plants if applied incorrectly. “The use of chicken manure could also cause diseases in humans,” he said after closing the Entrepreneurship and Curriculum Day event at Maahad Al-Ehya Assharif Gunung Semanggol on Tuesday. Parit Haji Aman and Parit Haji Tahir food traders have complained about infestation of flies and foul smell allegedly caused by the use of chicken manure at a vegetable farm in the area. Mohamad said a complaint may be lodged with the local authority for further action and an investigation could be conducted under Section 2 of the Local Government Act 1976. He also said the ministry will continue to focus on implementing programmes to increase padi production and strengthen the national food security agenda. “The focus of the ministry is to ensure rice, the main staple food, is sufficient.” Mohamad said the government is currently in the process of expanding padi farming areas, including in Sabah and Sarawak. – Bernama Dept explains action on transgenders IPOH: Perak Islamic Religious Department director Harith Fadzilah Abd Halim has defended a crackdown on transgender individuals in the state. “Our principle is simple. We do not like to make arrests, but the operation to curb rampant vice and immoral activities will be continued,” he said, adding that the department is committed to taking the necessary actions to manage such incidents. “There is no intention to demean. As long as it is not against religious and moral principles, including eastern culture, there is no need to make arrests or conduct raids. “If it contradicts, then we will take action according to the authority given to us and existing laws.” Harith was responding to a statement by NGO Justice for Sisters, condemning the recent arrests of five transgender individuals in Ipoh. Its co-founder Thilaga Sulatireh said the operation was derogatory, demeaning and reflected prejudice and misunderstanding about gender identity, adding that the raids demonstrated a disregard for human rights and personal dignity. – Bernama Fake news on diesel subsidy removal KUALA LUMPUR: The Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry has denied claims on social media that diesel subsidies will be eliminated from Jan 1. It said in a statement a pioneer project is being carried out to evaluate the effectiveness of the fleet card and MySubsidi Diesel systems, involving six companies with skid tank quotas ending Jan 14, adding that the initiative does not involve individual diesel vehicles. “The testing process needs to be implemented to look at the system efficiency so that it meets the specifications and objectives of the diesel subsidy restructuring as planned. “We hope there will not be any parties spreading unclear or confusing statements.” It added that a statement on the restructuring will be drafted with the Finance Ministry following engagement sessions and after a trial run is completed. – Bernama KUALA LUMPUR: The Galen Centre for Health and Social Policy has welcomed the return of Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad as health minister in place of Dr Zaliha Mustafa. However, its CEO Azrul Mohd Khalib warned of the scale of challenges and expectations ahead. “His appointment shows (Prime Minister) Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim recognises the need for experience, expertise and prioritisation in addressing the many significant short and long term challenges facing healthcare. “Dzulkefly will need to hit the ground running. There will be cynicism, less patience and very little sympathy among many stakeholders.” Azrul said the health challenges Malaysia faces have grown increasingly larger and in some situations, worsened over the past year, adding that Dzulkefly needs to restore confidence, build alliances and regain public trust. The centre also made recommendations for Dzulkefly to act on in his first 100 days as health minister. The first involves the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Bill 2023, which Azrul said needs to be “shepherded” until it is passed in the Dewan Negara, signed by the King and gazetted into law. “Somehow, the past year has seen the government being labelled as pro-tobacco and pro-vape, with many compromises and eroding of Malaysia’s obligations under the World Health Organisation Framework Convention on Tobacco Control,” he said, adding that Dzulkefly needs to immediately act to repair the damage to the country’s reputation. Azrul also said Dzulkefly needs to consider four critical issues. “These are to find a solution to sustainable healthcare financing, respond effectively to the crisis of non-communicable diseases, close the gap on mental health and address the lack of preparedness to provide care for the ageing population.” He said while Zaliha faced the same issues, they had not improved in the past year. “The Health Ministry must prioritise communicating its work more effectively and ensuring the involvement of all stakeholders in the planning of programmes and evaluation of outcomes. “Dzulkefly needs to adopt a consultative and inclusive approach in dealing with health problems that puts people and patients at the centre as beneficiaries of policies.” Azrul expressed hope Dzulkefly would work in collaboration with the private sector, patient groups, affected communities and civil society organisations. █ BY JOSHUA PURUSHOTMAN [email protected] Work cut out for new health minister Athletic ace owes success to timely assistance KUALA LUMPUR: A Malaysian athlete who specialises in the 400m event, Shereen Samson Vallabouy, has always had big dreams. The 25-year-old Perak lass, who recently graduated with a degree in recreation and tourism from Winona State University (WSU) in Minnesota, US, secured a scholarship to be a student athlete to enhance her training and performance. But she told theSun she did not realise life would become difficult not long after. “I had a promising start in 2019, but faced intense pressure to balance my studies, train and work part-time at a gym to reduce the financial burden of my parents.” Shereen said her parents, Samson and Josephine Mary, played a vital role in her achievements and drove her ambition to excel in sports and academics. Being forced to work to meet her living expenses resulted in her frequently struggling through the night to complete assignments. “My challenges intensified with the 2020 and 2021 Covid-19 pandemic. My father’s transportation business in Malaysia was severely impacted and eventually, I decided to return home.” Berjaya Corporation Berhad founder and adviser Tan Sri Vincent Tan subsequently heard of Shereen’s achievements and difficulties. A proud Malaysian himself, and not wanting to see her academic and sporting excellence crushed, Tan directed his Better Malaysia Foundation to assist Shereen financially. “This happened soon after I won gold at the National Collegiate Athletic Association Division II Championship, with a time of 52.27s. “My 400m performance created a new record, but it was not recognised as a US national outdoor record due to it being Shereen said Tan played a pivotal role in keeping her dreams alive. oLocal 400m star thanks Better Malaysia Foundation for aid in overcoming financial struggles █ BY SIVANISVARRY MORHAN [email protected] held indoors. “Nonetheless, this did not make a difference to Tan Sri. I guess it is God’s blessing that his philanthropy played a crucial role in helping to shape my goals.” Shereen said thanks to the foundation, her living and other expenses were taken care of while she pursued her studies. “Tan Sri came to my aid with US$52,000 in financial backing from the foundation. I also received US$2,600 monthly since last year, until the end of this month.” She said the foundation’s timely support became the catalyst for her success, easing some of the pressure and propelling her to do better. Shereen won the Phnom Penh SEA Games 400m gold after clocking 52.53s in May. In the Hangzhou Asian Games, she won bronze in the 400m sprint with a time of 52.58s. Her team also won in the 4x100m event. She has now set her sights on the 2024 Paris Olympics. To qualify for the 400m event, she has to beat the 50.95s mark by the end of June. “The money from Tan Sri’s foundation was a blessing. I don’t know what I would have done without his help. He has played a pivotal role in keeping my dreams alive. I will always be grateful to him for funding my educational endeavours and ensuring I realised my athletic pursuits.” Shereen expressed gratitude to her alma mater WSU and head coach Mason Rebarchek for allowing her to be a student athlete. She also thanked the Youth and Sports Ministry and the National Sports Council for currently funding her training in Florida under Olympics coach Derrick White. “My achievements in sports are not solely mine. It belongs to all Malaysians and especially to my parents, coaches, Tan Sri and the foundation. Thank you all for your unwavering support.”

THURSDAY | DEC 14, 2023 6 READ OUR HERE /thesun Malaysian Paper PETALING JAYA: A total of 169 civil servants are unable to receive their monthly salaries as their accounts have been classified as being involved in “mule” activities. Mule accounts are those suspected to be used by others to collect or transfer funds stolen or laundered from illegal activities, said Bank Negara Malaysia’s (BNM) Link Department deputy director Hasjun Hashim. She pointed out that the ripple effect of having one’s account classified as a mule is severe. “If a single account has been identified as a mule, all linked accounts will be closed. When this happens, there is a potential loss of jobs and diminished opportunities for the account holder’s children,” she said. Meanwhile, Bukit Aman Commercial Crime Investigation Department’s (CCID) statistics revealed a 37% rise in online crimes between January and November. The figures rose from 23,608 cases to 32,366, with a corresponding increase in the value of losses reaching RM1.13 billion or a 46% rise compared with 2022. Meanwhile, the Cyber999 Cyber Incident Response Centre managed by CyberSecurity Malaysia recorded a total of 5,480 cybersecurity incidents from January to November. A total of 3,447 online fraud cases were reported to Cyber999 during this period, while 4,741 incidents were recorded by the centre for the whole of last year. Speaking during the 2023 National AntiScam Tour in Putrajaya recently, Hasjun said so far, 43,000 mule accounts have been closed in the country. “This is an intricate process where we have to trace the digital or paper trail of stolen money that has transited through multiple accounts in what is called ‘layering’.” Hasjun warned that once money leaves the account, it is difficult to recover since it would have traversed multiple accounts within a short time. “Recovering stolen funds involves a complex process. Even if traceable, the layering of transactions makes matching the amounts challenging. “While some funds can be identified, the recovery process is time-consuming and success rates hover around just 30%.” Hasjun said many civil servants are targets of mule account scams as they can easily apply for loans, which makes them highly vulnerable. She said while each banking app has a kill switch to halt further transactions in case of a scam, time is of the essence, which underlines the importance of immediately reporting such frauds. To aid in the recovery of lost money, Hasjun said victims must quickly file a report with the police for them to initiate an investigation to trace the stolen money. Hasjun said as a direct response to scammers exploiting victims’ trust, BNM has mandated robust security measures for all banks to verify their customers. “When performing substantial transactions, it is important to establish strong parameters for verification as stipulated by BNM,” she said. She added that individuals should remember the 3S – soal (question), sekat (block), and sebar (spread) to combat scams effectively. CCID Senior Assistant Commissioner Zaldino Zaludin, who also spoke at the event, said scammers constantly change their modus operandi to employ a mix of old and new techniques. “Our vulnerability lies in our willingness to engage with unknown callers or reply to messages from unfamiliar people.” Zaldino said the proliferation of fake links and deceptive advertisements is a significant threat and advised social media users to be extremely cautious. He said victims fall for scams because they often overlook subtle discrepancies. “We cannot run away from using our gadgets. Scammers exploit the fact that people rarely notice spelling differences. “So always check the URL addresses because the alteration or addition of a single letter, variation in alphabets or subtle changes like a dot turning into a comma or a small ‘i’ becoming a capital ‘I’ could be a fraudulent link used by scammers,” he said. He urged the public to report scam incidents promptly so the authorities can freeze fraudulent transactions, as a first step to recover lost funds. Motorist fined for reckless driving KUALA LUMPUR: A driver of a four-wheel-drive vehicle who was caught on dashcam driving recklessly and hitting a family of four riding on a motorcycle was fined RM6,000 by the Magistrate’s Court yesterday. Magistrate Fatin Dayana Jalil imposed the fine on 22-year-old graphic designer Mohammad Harith Ismail, who pleaded guilty to the charge of reckless driving. He paid the fine. Mohammad Harith was charged with recklessly driving the vehicle on the Besraya Highway, from the direction of Sungai Besi towards Balakong at 12.30pm on Tuesday. In his mitigation, Mohammad Harith, unrepresented, said he did not commit the offence intentionally, Bernama reported. On Tuesday, a dashboard camera video recording went viral on social media showing a motorcycle ridden by two adults and two children being crushed by a vehicle that suddenly changed lanes. Civil servants hit by pay block after accounts flagged oMove based on suspicion of involvement of others in collection, transfer of stolen or laundered funds: BNM Bangladesh national escapes gallows, gets 33 years’ jail PUTRAJAYA: A Bangladeshi man escaped the gallows after the Federal Court yesterday commuted his death sentence to 33 years in jail for murdering his fellow countryman. Court of Appeal President Tan Sri Abang Iskandar Abang Hashim, who presided with Federal Court Judges Datuk Zabariah Mohd Yusof and Datuk Harmindar Singh Dhaliwal, also ordered Shohel to be given 12 strokes of the cane. Abang Iskandar said the court allowed Shohel’s appeal to set aside the death sentence imposed on him by the High Court and substituted it with 33 years in prison and 12 strokes of the cane. He ordered Shohel to serve the sentence from the date of arrest on Feb 11, 2017. Abang Iskandar, however, affirmed Shohel’s murder conviction. Shohel, 38, who was a construction worker, was found guilty by the High Court on Oct 23, 2019, for murdering Polaus Kumar, 29, a foreman, in an apartment under construction in Alam Jaya, Jeram, Kuala Selangor on Feb 9, 2017. His appeal to the Court of Appeal was dismissed on Nov 2 last year. According to the facts of the case, Polaus’ headless body was found hanging at the 10th floor of an apartment building and his head was found at the lower floor of the building. After his arrest, Shohel led the police to where he hid an axe and the clothes he wore at the time of the incident. Post-mortem results revealed that Polaus’ head was detached from the body and the cause of his death was decapitation. In yesterday’s proceedings, deputy public prosecutor K. Mangai informed the court that Shohel would withdraw his appeal against his conviction. Shohel’s counsel Muhammad Amirrul Jamaluddin asked the court to commute his client’s death sentence to prison following an amendment to Section 302 of the Penal Code, which abolished the mandatory death penalty and gave judges the discretion to impose custodial sentences. He said the murder was not pre-meditated but happened at the spur of the moment due to provocation. – Bernama Couple charged with accepting deposits SUNGAI PETANI: A married couple and another person pleaded not guilty in separate Sessions Courts yesterday to four charges of accepting deposits without a licence amounting to almost RM50,000 three years ago. The accused are company director Suchart Ee@Quah, 57, his wife Kamontip Chu@Chim, 49, who is a financial clerk at the company, and a former director of the company Mohamad Nahur Azad Ibrahim, 41. In the court before Judge Azman Abu Hassan, the three of them were jointly charged with accepting deposits amounting to RM17,000 without a valid licence from Teng Li Fong, 38, at Perdana Heights on Nov 10, 2020. In another court, the three of them were jointly charged with three counts of accepting deposits without a valid licence at the same place between March 9 and Sept 30 last year. – Bernama █ BY QALIF ZUHAIR [email protected] Rosmah arriving at the High Court yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC Rosmah submits new bid to strike out charges KUALA LUMPUR: Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor has submitted a new representation to the AttorneyGeneral’s Chambers (AGC) seeking to strike out her 12 money laundering charges involving RM7,097,750, and five charges for failing to declare her income to the Inland Revenue Board. Her lawyer Datuk Firoz Hussein Ahmad Jamaluddin informed High Court Judge K. Muniandy that the representation, sent on Tuesday, contained serious issues that needed to be considered by the attorney-general. “We also request that the hearing of today’s case be adjourned pending the decision of the representation,” said the lawyer yesterday. This is the third representation sent by the wife of former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak. The first and second representations were submitted on May 3 and Aug 18 respectively, but have not been decided by the AGC yet. Deputy public prosecutor Ahmad Akram Gharib confirmed receiving the representation yesterday and did not object to the request by the defence to postpone today’s proceeding, which was set to hear Rosmah’s application to strike out the 12 money laundering charges and five charges for failing to declare her income to the IRB. However, Judge K. Muniandy did not allow the adjournment of yesterday’s proceedings and asked the parties involved to continue with their submissions. Lawyer Amer Hamzah Arshad, also representing Rosmah, in his submission said his client would not get a fair trial (if the 12 money laundering and five IRB charges were not dropped) as the 17 charges were flawed and misleading. The hearing of the application continues on Jan 16. – Bernama

THURSDAY | DEC 14, 2023 7 200 nations agree on fossil fuel ‘transition’ DUBAI: Nearly 200 nations meeting here yesterday approved a first-ever call for the world to transition away from fossil fuels, the top culprit of climate change behind a planetary crisis. After 13 days of talks and another sleepless night in a country built on oil wealth, the Emirati leadership of the COP28 summit banged a gavel to signal the world had reached consensus. “You did step up, you showed flexibility, you put common interest ahead of self-interest,” said COP28 president Sultan Al-Jaber, whose role as head of the United Arab Emirates’ national oil company raised suspicion among many environmentalists. The United Arab Emirates, he said, PSYCHING UP ... Indonesian soldiers taking part in a ceremony, before travelling to Papua for deployment in a security operation, at Sultan Iskandar Muda Air Force Base in Aceh province. – AFPPIC Cyclone makes landfall in Australia CANBERRA: Tropical Cyclone Jasper hit northeast Australia yesterday, leaving thousands of people in coastal communities without power and preparing for potentially “life-threatening” floods. The Category Two storm barrelled in off the Coral Sea, making landfall at 5pm (3pm in Malaysia) yesterday, government meteorologists said. Damaging winds of up to 113kph were recorded as Jasper hit the coast, while meteorologists said pummelling rains could swamp some areas with flash flooding. Rough surf, strong winds and heavy rain pelted the seaside town of Palm Cove, where usually bustling restaurants and high-end hotels battened down the hatches and waited for the storm to pass. Uprooted vegetation littered the town’s coastal promenade and rows of coconut palms and melaleuca trees bowed under the strain of Jasper’s gusts. “It’s over the next few hours that we are expecting to see that heavy rainfall really picking up,” government meteorologist Miriam Bradbury said yesterday afternoon as the storm loomed at sea. “As the tropical cyclone nears the coast, that’s when we are going to see the most dangerous and most impactful weather developing.” The cyclone “slowly” made landfall near the largely Aboriginal settlement of Wujal Wujal, the Bureau of Meteorology said, whipping up “destructive wind gusts”. The tourist cities of Cairns and Port Douglas – both gateways to the Great Barrier Reef – were also in the path of the storm. Queensland Deputy Premier Steven Miles had warned that “dangerous and life-threatening” floods could linger for “days to come”. About 15,000 homes were left without electricity as winds picked up yesterday afternoon, utility companies and the Queensland state government said. Authorities are warning of damage to fences, roofs and other property. Officials had urged residents to tie down loose items before the storm arrived. Flood watches are in place for rivers across the region and power has preemptively been cut to areas where damage is expected. – AFP Solomons PM hits out at Western ‘agents’ CANBERRA: Solomon Islands’ pro-China leader accused “agents of Western powers” and shadowy enemies of trying to “pull down” his government yesterday. Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare has led the impoverished Pacific island for almost five years and – having delayed elections once – is seeking reelection on a platform of warm ties with Beijing. Sogavare made a fiery initial pitch to voters yesterday, telling Parliament his country was at the centre of a “geopolitical war” between fast-rising China and Western powers that he painted as arrogant has-beens. Accusing the United States of having a “geopolitical superiority complex”, Sogavare claimed the end of American hegemony in the Pacific. “We must wake up. Those days are over,“ he said, while pointing to Chinese investment as a means of breaking his country’s dependence on foreign aid. Since coming to office, Sogavare has cut ties with Taiwan and formally established relations with Beijing. Last year, he struck a secretive security pact with China that the US and Australia fear could give Beijing a military foothold in the South Pacific. Critics have accused Sogavare and his party of corruption and using China’s political and economic support to secure his grip on power. Sogavare dismissed those allegations yesterday, saying he had been the target of “fabricated lies by agents of Western powers” who should “realise that their days of dominating and blinding the people of this country are over”. – AFP B R I E F SPOLICE NAB MAN OVER 17 MILLION SCAM TEXTS CANBERRA: Australian police yesterday charged a man living in suburban Sydney with sending 17 million scam text messages, one for almost every adult in the country. New South Wales police said the unnamed 39-year-old was single-handedly responsible for scam texts that have been plaguing mobile phone users across the country. The texts included fake links purporting to be from Australia Post or toll road operators and were allegedly sent using “SIM boxes” that can send tens of thousands of messages per day. The man was charged with using networked equipment to “commit serious offence” and granted bail. – AFP SECURITY BREACH IN INDIAN PARLIAMENT NEW DELHI: A man jumped into the lawmakers’ area of the lower house of India’s Parliament yesterday, TV channels showed, in a major security breach on the 22nd anniversary of a deadly attack on the complex. CNN News 18 showed a man wearing a black jacket jump from the visitors’ area into the lawmakers’ seating area, climbing over tables of lawmakers. Two suspects were taken into custody following the security breach, the channel said, citing police. Lawmaker Gaurav Gogoi said one of the two suspects was shouting slogans. Other lawmakers said there was some kind of sound followed by smoke in the chambers. – Reuters was “rightly proud” of its role in bringing “transformational change” to the planet. “The world needed to find a new way. And by following our North Star, we have found that new path,” he said to applause, referring to the goal of limiting warming to 1.5°C. Toughening language from an earlier draft that was roundly denounced, the agreement calls for “transitioning away from fossil fuels in energy systems, in a just, orderly and equitable manner, accelerating action in this critical decade, so as to achieve net zero by 2050 in keeping with the science”. It marked the first mention of all fossil fuels in 28 years of climate summits. “For the first time in 30 years, we might now reach the beginning of the end of fossil fuels,” EU climate chief Wopke Hoekstra said before heading into the plenary session. Danish negotiator Dan Jorgensen, part of a group in charge of making headway, called the agreement “historic progress”. However, the text stopped short of calls during the summit for a “phase-out” of oil, gas and coal, which together account for around three-quarters of the emissions responsible for the planetary crisis. Low-lying islands fear extinction from rising sea levels and worsening storms, with the Marshall Islands denouncing the earlier draft as a “death warrant”. The bloc of small island states called the revised text “an improvement” but reiterated concerns, saying the deal was “incremental, not transformational”. The earlier draft merely suggested that nations “could” reduce the consumption and production of fossil fuels, among other options, drawing fury from green groups. Environmentalists virtually all saw the new text as an improvement, although many cautioned that there will still far more to do. “This result would have been unheard off two years ago,” said Mohamed Adow, director of the Power Shift Africa think tank. The agreement also made more explicit the near-term goals in the goal of ending net emissions by 2050. It called for the world to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 43% by 2030 compared with 2019 levels. – AFP oCOP28 deal stops short of calls for phase-out of oil, gas and coal

THURSDAY | DEC 14, 2023 8 Thai MP jailed six years for insulting monarchy Another was her sharing of a graphically worded post on X, made by another user, that the court said had displayed “great malice” towards the king. Thailand’s lese-majeste law is one of the strictest of its kind in the world, protecting the king, queen, heir and regent from criticism and carrying a jail sentence of 15 years for each perceived insult to the monarchy. Rukchanok also faces potential disqualification as a MP for Bangkok if the court does not grant her bail, her lawyer and fellow lawmaker Weeranan Huadsri told Reuters, adding she would appeal the sentence. She gained prominence as an activist in an anti-government, youth-led democracy movement that called for reforms to the palace and the lese-majeste law and at times drew crowds of more than 100,000 people. She later joined Move Forward, which campaigned to amend the royal insults law, and was elected to Parliament in a May general election. Move Forward won the election but failed to form a government, with strong opposition from lawmakers appointed by or allied with the royalist military. At least 262 people have been charged with insulting the monarchy since 2020, according to data tracked by Thai Lawyers for Human Rights advocacy group. The court said yesterday that under cross-examination, Rukchanok “did not display any inclination to present evidence to prove her innocence”. It said such behaviour was unusual for a Thai person “who must respect and avoid offending the king”. – Reuters Le Le making its final public appearance at the River Wonders wildlife park in Singapore yesterday. – AFPPIC/MANDAI WILDLIFE GROUP oMove Forward member may lose seat if denied bail Singapore bids farewell to China-bound panda SINGAPORE: Singaporeans bid farewell to a two-year-old panda cub yesterday as authorities prepared to send him to China where he will join the country’s breeding programme. Le Le, the first panda to be born in the city-state, made his final public appearance at the River Wonders wildlife park before a month-long quarantine ahead of his departure. Dozens of visitors lined up to see Le Le amble around his enclosure, eating bamboo and carrot sticks that keepers had hidden under paper planes and inside cardboard suitcases. Among them was Lucilla Teoh, a self-described “panda-holic”, who wore a tee-shirt and hat decorated with panda motifs and sparkly panda earrings for the special occasion. The 61-year-old told AFP she considers herself Le Le’s “grand-aunty” as she had watched him grow from a tiny baby into a 73kg cub. “Obviously it’s bittersweet, I wish he could stay longer. “But I also feel he has a part to play in panda conservation, that it is important for him to go back to China, grow up a bit, and then hopefully he gets to be a panda ambassador and come out like his parents.” Lydia Robangsa, who brought her nine-year-old daughter Dahlia to see Le Le for the last time, said they felt “a bit sad” to say goodbye to the panda. “I think Singapore is his home,” the 40-year-old marketing executive said. Le Le was born in 2021 via artificial insemination after his parents, Jia Jia and Kai Kai, failed to mate naturally. The pair, now aged 15 and 16 respectively, arrived in Singapore in 2012 on loan from China. Under the arrangement, their offspring were to be sent to China after reaching independence to join the country’s panda breeding programme. Panda reproduction – in captivity or in the wild – is notoriously difficult, experts say, as few of the animals get in the mood or, even when they do, do not know how to mate. Further complicating matters, the window for conception is small since female pandas are in heat only once a year, for 24 to 48 hours. Le Le is scheduled to travel to Chengdu on Jan 16 in a custom-made crate on board a Singapore Airlines Boeing 747-400F freighter plane. – AFP Myanmar junta arrests two more journalists YANGON: Myanmar’s junta have arrested two journalists in night raids, their outlet said yesterday, as the military cracks down on independent media. Since toppling Aung San Suu Kyi’s government in 2021, the military has waged a sweeping and bloody campaign against dissent, and at least 170 journalists have since been arrested, according to the United Nations. Local outlet Dawei Watch said two of its employees were arrested from their homes in the southern city of Dawei around midnight on Dec11. It said their families had been told by the military the two had been arrested for their reporting, and that their laptops and phones had been confiscated. The military had not told their families where the two were being held, it said. Two journalists and a web designer from Dawei Watch were arrested and briefly held last year, before being released without charge. The junta has arrested more than 25,000 people since it seized power, according to a local monitoring group. Myanmar ranks 173 out of 180 in the latest World Press Freedom Index published by Reporters Without Borders. According to the watchdog’s latest figures, 67 journalists and one media worker are currently detained in Myanmar. In September, a Myanmar journalist was jailed for 20 years after being indicted on several charges, including breaching a natural disaster law and a telecommunications law while covering the aftermath of a deadly cyclone. – AFP B R I E F SOWNERSHIP CASE AGAINST RESSA DROPPED MANILA: A foreign ownership case against Philippine Nobel laureate Maria Ressa has been dropped, her media outlet Rappler said yesterday, but the journalist still faces the threat of imprisonment on other charges. Ressa, who won a Nobel Peace Prize in 2021, has been fighting multiple charges filed during former president Rodrigo Duterte’s administration. The 60-year-old was acquitted on five government charges of tax evasion earlier this year. The Department of Justice has now dropped a charge alleging Ressa illegally put Rappler under foreign control through the 2015 sale of foreign depositary receipts to US investment firm Omidyar Network, said her lawyers Amal Clooney and Caoilfhionn Gallagher. – AFP XI WARNS OF ATTEMPT TO ‘MESS UP ASIA-PACIFIC’ HANOI: China and Vietnam should oppose any “attempt to mess up Asia-Pacific”, President Xi Jinping said yesterday during a trip to Hanoi, as Beijing seeks to counter expanding US influence. The trip is Xi’s first to Vietnam in six years, and the two nations committed to deeper ties and signed more than 30 agreements, including a pledge to develop rail links between Vietnam and China. Xi said China and Vietnam “should be vigilant against and oppose any attempt to mess up Asia-Pacific”, according to Xinhua news agency. “We should strengthen coordination and cooperation in international affairs,” he said. – AFP BANGKOK: A court in Thailand sentenced an activist-turned-lawmaker to six years in prison yesterday for insulting the powerful monarchy and related offences. Rukchanok Srinok, 29, a parliamentarian with the progressive Move Forward Party, was found guilty over two posts made in 2020 on social media platform X, formerly Twitter, according to a court statement. One accused the government of using Covid-19 vaccine distribution to promote the monarchy’s image, which the court considered defamation.

THURSDAY | DEC 14, 2023 9 Israel under pressure from allies oWashington warns Tel Aviv risks losing support for Gaza war GAZA CITY: Israel came under pressure yesterday from its allies over its war in Gaza, with key backer the United States criticising its bombing as “indiscriminate”. The United Nations General Assembly also overwhelmingly backed a non-binding resolution demanding an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in the devastated territory. According to the Hamas-run Health Ministry, the war has killed more than 18,400 people, mostly women and children. The ministry reported yesterday that at least another 50 people were killed in the latest wave of Israeli air strikes across the territory. Biden told a campaign event in Washington that Israel had “most of the world supporting it” after the Oct 7 Hamas attack. “But they’re starting to lose that support by the indiscriminate bombing that takes place.” Speaking later on Tuesday at a news conference, Biden toned down his comments. Reiterating the US support for Israel, he said “the safety of innocent Palestinians is still of great concern”. Washington has been calling for weeks for Israel to take more care to avoid civilian casualties in Gaza, saying that too many Palestinians have been killed. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also said there was “disagreement” with Biden over how a post-conflict Gaza would be governed, reflecting a rare rift between the allies. And the leaders of Australia, Canada and New Zealand – other Israel allies – called for a ceasefire, issuing a rare joint statement to say they were “alarmed at the diminishing safe space for civilians in Gaza”. Their statement came after the UN General Assembly passed a resolutiondemanding a ceasefire, with an overwhelming 153 member nations of 193 voting in favour. While the US and Israel voted against the resolution, Australia, Canada and New Zealand all voted in favour. In total, the number of countries that voted for a ceasefire exceeded the 140 or so that have routinely backed resolutions condemning Russia for its invasion of Ukraine. The vote came as the head of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees Philippe Lazzarini described the situation in Gaza as “hell on earth”. “Back in Gaza, endless deepening tragedy. People are everywhere, live in the street, need everything. “They plead for safety and for an end to this hell on earth,” Lazzarini posted on X at the end of a visit to the territory. In Gaza City, Hamas said via Telegram that Israeli forces raided a hospital and detained its director. World Health Organisation director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said on X that he was “extremely worried” by reports of the raid. He said his agency “urgently calls for the protection of all persons inside the hospital”. – AFP Israeli military vehicles blocking an ambulance during a raid in the West Bank city of Jenin. – REUTERSPIC Putin ‘banking’ on Ukraine abandonment: Biden WASHINGTON: President Joe Biden warned on Tuesday that Russia was banking on the United States abandoning Ukraine, as he promised President Volodymyr Zelensky he would support Kyiv despite Republicans blocking new military aid. Standing alongside Biden at a press conference at the White House, Zelensky pledged for his part that Ukraine would keep fighting and said it would be “insane” for Kyiv to give up any territory to secure a peace deal. Russian President Vladimir Putin “is banking on the US failing to deliver for Ukraine”, said Biden. “We must, we must, we must prove him wrong.” He said letting Ukraine lose would embolden Putin “and would-be aggressors everywhere”. Biden stressed that he would “not walk away from Ukraine“, adding that the US would “continue to supply Ukraine with critical weapons and equipment as long as we can”. But just how long the Biden administration can keep doing so is under question. Republicans in Congress refuse to pass US$60 billion (RM282 billion) in fresh Ukraine aid if Democrats do not agree to major immigration reforms. Zelensky, who spent the morning talking to Republicans and Democrats in Congress, signaled cautious optimism that the stalled US aid flow will restart. “I got the signals. They were more than positive. But we know that we have to separate words and particular results.” Biden said he had approved a further US$200 million (RM941 million) in US military aid to tide Ukraine over for coming weeks, with the White House warning that funding could dry up by the end of the year without a deal in Congress. The united front at the White House contrasted with growing division up on Capitol Hill, where Republicans are not only insisting on new policies for the US-Mexico border but increasingly questioning whether the war against Russian invasion should continue. As Moscow claimed fresh battlefield advances and predicted any new assistance for Kyiv would be a “fiasco”, Republican House speaker Mike Johnson expressed little enthusiasm for approving Biden’s request. “What the Biden administration seems to be asking for is billions of additional dollars with no appropriate oversight, no clear strategy to win, and none of the answers that I think the American people are owed,” Johnson said. Republican senator JD Vance – who is close to party leader Donald Trump – said Zelensky was “gross” for pressuring the Senate. – AFP Miss Nicaragua director quits amid treason charges MANAGUA: The Miss Universe Organisation said on Tuesday that the director of the Miss Nicaragua pageant has resigned, after her home country charged her with treason and conspiracy and jailed members of her family. Authorities in Nicaragua barred the director, Karen Celebertti, from returning to her homeland after the triumph of Nicaraguan Sheynnis Palacios in the global beauty contest. Palacios was the first woman from Central America to win the title, and her victory sparked the largest celebrations in Nicaragua since street protests in 2018 jolted the government. But the Nicaraguan government was not pleased when, after Palacios’s win, images posted on social media showed her at those anti-government protests. More than 300 people were killed in the demonstrations, according to UN experts, and the government of President Daniel Ortega, in power since 2007, has since outlawed the right to protest. “This week, we accepted the resignation of Karen Celebertti, national director of Miss Universe Nicaragua. We thank her for her exemplary work with our organisation for the past 23 years,” the Miss Universe Organisation said in a statement on its Facebook page. Celebertti announced her retirement on Monday night from Mexico, less than a month after the winner of her national pageant won the global crown in El Salvador on Nov 18. Afterward, Celebertti was denied entry to Nicaragua, and police accused her of treason, conspiracy against the government and money laundering. Her husband Martin Arguello and her son Bernardo Arguello Celebertti were also detained in Managua. – AFP B R I E F SIRAN EXECUTES MAN FOR KILLING AYATOLLAH TEHRAN: Iranian authorities executed a man convicted of killing a powerful cleric in April, the judiciary said yesterday. Ayatollah Abbas Ali Soleimani, a member of the Assembly of Experts that selects the country’s supreme leader, was killed on April 26 in a bank in Babolsar city in the northern province of Mazandaran. The murderer, who has not been named, was a security guard at the bank. CCTV footage published by local media showed him shooting the cleric from behind as he was sitting in a chair. Abbas, 75, was previously a representative of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and led Friday prayers in the cities of Kashan and Zahedan. – AFP COLOMBIA REBELS END KIDNAPPING FOR RANSOM BOGOTA: A splinter rebel group that chose not to take part in a sweeping 2016 peace accord said on Tuesday it would no longer engage in kidnapping for ransom. The announcement was the first major gain reached from ongoing peace talks between the Colombian government and the FARC breakaway faction known as the Central General Command, or EMC Group. Both parties signed a statement with the agreement, which promised an end to “the practice of retention for economic purposes”. Peace talks with EMC restarted in mid-November after the group briefly walked away from the discussions. Another round of negotiations is set for Jan 9 to 18 in Bogota. – AFP

10 THURSDAY | DEC 14, 2023 Or download app on the AppStore or Google Play ENJOY A SEAMLESS READING EXPERIENCE. Read our iPaper at https://www.thesun.my/ End genocide atrocities in Gaza THERE is no doubt that Israel’s human rights atrocities in Gaza in the last two months are the worst we have witnessed in modern times. The bombardment and siege of Gaza since Oct 7 have killed over 17,000 people, including more than 7,000 children, injured more than 40,000 and displaced 1.6 million persons, while thousands are still unaccounted for under the rubble. Of those killed, around 41% are children and 25% are women, turning Gaza into a “graveyard for children”, according to United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. More than 200 medics, 102 UN staff, 56 journalists, frontline and human rights defenders, have also been killed. The most recent casualty is Palestinian poet Refaat Alareer, who was killed in a strike on Gaza last Friday. Alareer, who fiercely denounced Israel and its policies towards the Palestinians, was one of the leaders of a young generation of writers in Gaza. After the US vetoed a security council resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire in the Palestinian territory on Friday, Human Rights Watch has accused the US of “complicity in war crimes” by giving Israel weapons and “diplomatic cover” as it commits atrocities in Gaza. UN experts have said there is evidence of increasing genocidal incitement, overt intent to “destroy the Palestinian people under occupation”, and loud calls for a “second Nakba” in Gaza and the rest of the occupied Palestinian territory. “This occurs amid Israel’s tightening of its 16-year unlawful blockade of Gaza, which has prevented people from escaping and left them without food, water, medicine and fuel for weeks now, despite international appeals to provide access to critical humanitarian aid. As we previously said, intentional starvation amounts to a war crime,” the experts said. They noted that half of the civilian infrastructure in Gaza has been destroyed, including more than 40,000 housing units as well as hospitals, schools, mosques, bakeries, water pipes, sewage and electricity networks. “Israel remains the occupying power in the occupied Palestinian territory, which also includes the Gaza Strip, and, therefore, cannot wage a war against the population under its belligerent occupation,” they added. More than a dozen member states of the World Health Organisation, including Malaysia, China and Indonesia, have submitted a draft resolution, urging Israel to respect its obligations under international law to protect humanitarian workers in Gaza. The member states expressed their “grave concern about the catastrophic humanitarian situation in the occupied Palestinian territory, including east Jerusalem, especially the military operations in the Gaza Strip”. They called for Israel to “respect and protect” medical and humanitarian workers exclusively involved in carrying out medical duties as well as hospitals and other medical facilities. I urge all human rights defenders and journalists, all concerned nongovernmental organisations, not only in Malaysia but throughout Asia, to stand with the Palestinian people, to call for a ceasefire in Gaza and to condemn the war crimes by Israel, with the complicity of the US and the West. Days before his death, Refaat wrote the following poem: If I must die, you must live to tell my story, to sell my things, to buy a piece of cloth and some strings, (make it white with a long tail), So that a child, somewhere in Gaza, while looking heaven in the eye, awaiting his dad who left in a blaze – and bid no one farewell, not even to his flesh, not even to himself – sees the kite, my kite you made, flying up above, and thinks for a moment an angel is there, bringing back love. If I must die, let it bring hope, let it be a tale. The writer is a former member of Parliament and director of human rights organisation Suaram. Comments: [email protected] “All human rights defenders and journalists, all concerned nongovernmental organisations, not only in Malaysia but throughout Asia, must stand with the Palestinian people, to call for a ceasefire in Gaza and to condemn the war crimes by Israel with the complicity of the US and the West. WHO member states have called for Israel to respect and protect medical and humanitarian workers in Gaza. – REUTERSPIC COMMENT by Kua Kia Soong

11 THURSDAY | DEC 14, 2023 Striking balance as dental academician MY life as an academician began when I joined the teaching fraternity at a university in 2012. Having been in this profession for the past decade, I have often come across individuals curious about my occupation. I always try to avoid complex explanations about the nature of my job. Instead, I make it simple by explaining to them in layman’s terms that I teach and train aspiring dentists. However, upon deeper reflection, I wonder if my oversimplified response to the people does justice to the teaching fraternity as it may not accurately describe my job scope. Dental academicians are defined as individuals who work in the field of dentistry as educators, clinical instructors, clinical supervisors, researchers and clinicians. They are responsible for educating and training dental students, conducting research to look for new evidence or further verifying the clinical methods by upholding evidencebased dentistry, providing quality dental care to patients and protecting their best interests. Like any other profession, being a dental academician can be stressful due to various factors such as heavy workload; job demands; pressure to publish research in reputed journals; managing three-way interactions involving students, technicians and patients; and endless administrative tasks. The following are some of the common challenges prevalent among dental academicians: 0 Constant act of trying to balance teaching, research and clinical responsibilities 0 Relentless pursuit in trying to meet academic and professional expectations, which are assessed in key performance indicators, which can be unrealistic in some cases 0 Striving to keep up with deadlines that are set for almost every piece of work 0 Heavy workload, coupled with extended and often unseen work hours, involves taking unfinished paperwork home and participating in numerous online meetings, even on weekends 0 Coping with different challenging behaviour and attitudes from students and finding ways to meet the high expectations of patients and fulfil their needs. 0 The constant need to be updated by keeping abreast of advancements in technology and techniques employed in clinical practices 0 Ongoing administrative responsibilities including tasks such as submitting grant applications, overseeing student affairs, planning sound budgets and organising various meetings There is an incessant inner struggle between their personal and professional lives, posing an ongoing challenge for dental academicians, whereby striking the right balance becomes an arduous task. It is quite worrying to note that despite all these extreme challenges and demands, many dental academicians carry on with their lives without making the necessary adjustments to their lifestyles. In my view, addressing this issue requires a proactive approach. It is imperative for dental academicians to cultivate effective stress management strategies to navigate the demands of their profession while safeguarding their well-being. They need to learn to manage their stress accordingly to ensure a better quality of life. In this regard, it is recommended that dental academicians engage in activities such as regular exercise (a vigorous workout can be an effective stress reliever); meditation to achieve mindfulness and relaxation; engaging in hobbies (such as gardening, collecting collectables) and seeking support from colleagues, family and friends. When the workload is overwhelming, they may also prioritise tasks, set realistic goals and practise time management skills, not only to reduce work-related stress, but also to work more efficiently and be more productive. By prioritising mental and emotional well-being, dental academicians can not only mitigate the negative impact of stress on their lives but also contribute to their professional effectiveness. Developing resilience and adopting adaptive coping mechanisms are essential components of this journey towards a more balanced and fulfilling life. In conclusion, as I reflect on these challenges, I am also reminded of the profound rewards that accompany these trials. There is a unique joy in witnessing the transformation of eager learners into the confident faces of our future dentists. It is a privilege beyond measure. My hope is that these challenges will not dissuade aspiring individuals from embracing the noble path of dental education. While dentistry may often be perceived solely for its financial promise, there is an intrinsic satisfaction in shaping the next generation of dental professionals. The true richness lies in nurturing and guiding these budding talents toward a future of impactful oral healthcare. Let us shift the spotlight to focus on the often unseen rewards of mentoring future dentists. Beyond the material attraction, let us champion the immeasurable fulfilment derived from instilling knowledge and expertise. By showcasing these aspects, we can inspire passionate individuals to consider the immense joy found in shaping the future of dentistry through education. Together, let us celebrate the invaluable role of dental academicians and ignite a passion for education that propels dentistry forward into a brighter, more fulfilling future. The writer is an associate professor at the Department of Restorative Dentistry at the Faculty of Dentistry at Universiti Malaya. Comments: [email protected] Salary boost plan for civil servants lauded FROM indications, civil servants can look forward to a salary increase next year to boost the economy. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has indicated that he wants to see improvements to the public service remuneration scheme while Cuepacs (Congress of Union of Employees in the Public and Civil Services) president, Datuk Adnan Mat, wants the promise to be implemented immediately. These hopes and expressions are justified. Revising the salaries of civil servants in Malaysia is essential for various reasons, ranging from economic stability to social equity and good governance. It is a step that can benefit the civil servants and the nation as a whole. The cost of living in Malaysia has been steadily rising. An upward salary revision can help civil servants cope with inflation and maintain their standard of living. Offering competitive salaries is crucial to attracting and retaining qualified individuals in the civil service. If salaries are not competitive, it may deter skilled professionals from joining or staying in public service. Higher salaries can boost motivation and job satisfaction among civil servants. When employees feel adequately compensated, they tend to perform better and are more committed to their roles. Low salaries can make civil servants vulnerable to corruption. When their income is inadequate, they may be tempted to engage in corrupt practices to supplement their earnings. Raising salaries can be a proactive step in curbing corruption. Adequately compensated civil servants are more likely to provide efficient and effective public services. This will not only benefit the nation, but contribute to good governance. Increasing civil servants’ salaries can also stimulate economic growth. When they have more disposable income, they are likely to spend it, which can boost various sectors of the economy. Malaysia’s ability to compete globally depends on having a skilled and motivated civil service. Competitive salaries can help attract top talent and reduce brain drain to some extent. It is important to acknowledge that various professions contribute to society in different ways, and each has its unique challenges and merits. For example, doctors and fire department workers are undoubtedly vital to the well-being of a community. Doctors are responsible for preserving and improving lives through medical care. Every day we see large crowds in government hospitals, especially in Kuala Lumpur and other centres, waiting for medical care. Doctors are hard-pressed to provide the best care possible to patients. They undergo extensive education and training to perform their duties effectively. Their commitment warrants recognition and reward. Being in the medical field can be highly stressful as it involves making critical decisions and dealing with life-and-death situations. Adequate compensation will help them alleviate stress and enable them to maintain a high standard of care. Firefighters face life-threatening situations regularly, such as battling fires or rescuing people from accidents. They are often under trying circumstances, which justifies better pay and allowances. We hope that with the eventual increase in salaries, the productivity of the civil service will improve. As digitisation becomes prevalent, government officials can reduce their reliance on face-to-face meetings with the public without compromising efficiency. This shift should result in a significant boost in productivity. Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye Kuala Lumpur LETTERS [email protected] COMMENT by Assoc Prof Dr Lim Ghee Seong “While dentistry may often be perceived solely for its financial promise, there is an intrinsic satisfaction in shaping the next generation of dental professionals. The true richness lies in nurturing and guiding these budding talents toward a future of impactful oral healthcare. The job of a dental academician can be stressful as it entails striking a balance among various tasks such as teaching, research and clinical responsibilities. – REUTERSPIC

PROPERTY PROPERTY THURSDAY | DEC 14, 2023 12 Lotus’s to enhance retail landscape at IJM Rimbayu oGroundbreaking held recently for store that will sit on 4.48 acres and have built-up of 64,066 sq ft, to be completed in late 2024 KUALA LUMPUR: The recent groundbreaking ceremony of Lotus’s, a hypermarket operator, is poised to enhance the retail and commercial landscape at the fastgrowing integrated township of IJM Rimbayu in Selangor. With a projected completion date in Q4’24 and a development cost of RM42 million, Lotus’s is set to become the largest hypermarket within a 10km radius, strategically positioned to serve the thriving community of IJM Rimbayu. This new hypermarket in IJM Rimbayu brings a legacy of retail excellence, boasting a vast land size of 4.48 acres and a spacious built-up area of 64,066 sq ft and 185 surface floor parking. The project details include a lease term of 30 years, reflecting Lotus’s longstanding commitment to becoming a mainstay in the community. With a diverse portfolio of residential and commercial projects across the country, IJM Land is dedicated to enhancing the liveability and well-being of IJM Rimbayu residents and fostering economic growth in the areas it serves. Lotus’s hypermarket offers residents easy access to essential daily goods and services while also boosting the local economy. This includes the additional spending it will induce in the surrounding commercial constituents. “Lotus’s position in IJM Rimbayu is more than just easily accessible,” emphasised IJM Land CEO Datuk Wong Tuck Wai. “It serves as a gateway to unparalleled convenience, seamlessly integrated into the neighbourhood’s very fabric. This hub not only caters to the different needs of residents and visitors, but also acts as a catalyst, driving demand for nearby commercial real estate properties. Businesses, eager to capitalise on the increased foot traffic, will find prime opportunities for retail spaces and offices in this bustling locale.” To date, IJM Land has successfully launched 5,472 units at IJM Rimbayu, with 3,980 units sold, completed and handed over to homeowners. The addition of Lotus’s underscores IJM Land’s commitment to meeting the needs of a growing community including financing options for high-value items like appliances and electronics. This can save residents time and effort, eliminating the need to travel to other areas for their necessities, groceries, and other retail items. As such, Lotus’s at IJM Rimbayu will serve a catchment resident population of 15,930. Furthermore, an additional 30,000 residents residing in the surrounding neighbourhoods within a 5km radius will have easy access to the only hypermarket in the growing township. This leads to overall improvements in the quality of life for both residents and incoming visitors. Reflecting on this, Lotus’s CEO Saksit Panurach shared, “We’re thrilled to be an important part of the IJM Rimbayu family, bringing value, convenience and quality as a one-stop shopping experience to residents and enhancing their overall lifestyle. We aim to create a space for communities to gather and to engage in various family fun activities. Our #KitakanJiran spirit extends beyond retail as we’re devoted to fostering a community-centric environment, enriching the lives of those we proudly serve.” IJM Rimbayu is set to continue its impressive trajectory with other commercial developments. This includes projects such as the completion of Uptown @ Rimbayu in Q1 next year, Rimbayu @ Uptown Square in 2025, and the unveiling of J&T Warehouse and its headquarters in 2026. The presence of Lotus’s will also provide a space for residents to gather and engage in social activities that will foster a sense of community. Wong said, “The launch of Lotus’s groundbreaking marks a monumental stride in our continuous development. This pivotal moment reflects our steadfast commitment to elevating IJM Rimbayu with retail offerings aligned with the community’s expectations.” From left: IJM Land senior general manager Chai Kian Soon, Wong, Saksit and special assistant to Lotus’s CEO Neil Nesaratnasingam Gurusamy. Haily wins RM64m job for Mah Sing township in Johor KULAI: Construction player Haily Group Bhd has secured a RM64 million construction contract from Meridin East Sdn Bhd, a wholly owned subsidiary of Mah Sing Group Bhd to build 327 residential units and two TNB substations for the Meridin East township in Johor Baru. This contract, which is among Haily’s largest to date and the fifth major job clinched by the group this year, brings the total contract value of its ongoing projects to RM697.51 million. Haily’s wholly owned subsidiary Haily Construction Sdn Bhd had on Dec 5 accepted a Letter of Award from Meridin East for the construction of 327 units of double-storey terrace houses and TNB substations. The TNB substations and the houses, each measuring 20’ x 70,’ will be located in Parcel 2G of the Meridin East township at Taman Bestari Perdana, Mukim of Plentong, District of Johor Baru in the state of Johor. Haily’s contract involves Parcel 2G1 and Parcel 2G2, with 157 units and 1 TNB substation to be built in Parcel 2G1, while the remaining 170 units and 1 TNB substation will be built in Parcel 2G2. The contract is scheduled to be completed within 15 months from the respective commencement dates of Parcel 2G1 and Parcel 2G2, which will be determined later. As Malaysia’s economy continues its steady recovery from the throes of the Covid-19 pandemic, Haily has secured several significant contracts, solidifying its position as one of Johor’s leading contractors. Major contracts bagged by the group this year include, amongst others, a RM53.8 million construction contract from Tasek Maju Realty Sdn Bhd to build 170 residential units for the Taman Mutiara Maju township; a RM32.66 million contract for the construction of 186 residential units in the Bandar Putra township from Nice Frontier Sdn Bhd, a member of IOI Properties Group Bhd; a RM78.28 million contract for the construction of 262 units of residential units in Pontian, Johor from Gadang Holdings Bhd’s subsidiary Mandy Corporation Sdn Bhd; and a RM37.85 million contract for the construction of 77 commercial properties for the Crest@Austin development for Austin Senibong Development Sdn Bhd. Haily is principally a main contractor involved in constructing residential and non-residential buildings in the southern region of Peninsular Malaysia, particularly Johor. It is also engaged in provision of construction machinery, as well as in the agriculture sector, where the group is involved in managing and harvesting durians and other fruits. Advancecon gets second earthworks contract from Sime Darby Property KUALA LUMPUR: Earthworks and civil engineering specialist Advancecon Holdings Bhd’s wholly owned subsidiary Advancecon Infra Sdn Bhd, secured its second earthworks contract from Sime Darby Property last month. The group had been awarded a RM35.6 million contract from Sime Darby Property (Bukit Raja) Sdn Bhd for earthworks and auxiliary works at its township project in Bandar Bukit Raja Stage 3 in Klang, Selangor. Advancecon will undertake the construction and completion of earthworks and auxiliary works for Phase 4A (R14) for Stage 3 of the township’s development. The duration of the contract is slated for 18 months from site possession this month. Advancecon Holdings Bhd group CEO Datuk Phum Ang Kia said, “This latest contract from Sime Darby Property signifies our continuing relationship as a key provider of earthworks expertise to the reputable developer’s projects across Malaysia. It represents our seventh contract for the different phases of Sime Darby Property’s Bandar Bukit Raja development in Selangor, and closely follows our recent earthworks contract for their industrial park development in Johor. We look forward to continue supporting major industry players in the construction and development sector with our industry leading expertise.” Advancecon had in November 2023 secured a RM22.8 million earthworks contract from Sime Darby Property (Pagoh) Sdn Bhd for the latter’s industrial park project at Bandar Universiti Pagoh, Johor. In addition to the industrial park project in Pagoh and the Bandar Bukit Raja 2 development in Klang, Advancecon is also supporting Sime Darby’s Serenia City development project in Sepang, Selangor and SME Business Park development in Nilai, Negeri Sembilan. SP Setia launches Laelia III after success of first two phases KLANG: In 2023, SP Setia has launched three phases of Laelia terrace house collection in its Setia Bayuemas township. Responding to high demand in the local housing market, SP Setia launched Laelia III, the third phase of the highly sought-after affordable landed residential units here and this comes after the full take-up of non-bumi units in Laelia and Laelia II in the recent February and September 2023 launches. Sprawling 10.13 acres, the freehold double-storey terrace home collection comprises 83 exclusive units for sale and is slated for completion in December 2025. With an estimated gross development value at RM73.4 million, Laelia III offers a brand-new definition of contemporary living with a touch of nature. Laelia III terrace house stands out with a more spacious built-up area ranging from 1,850 to 1,953 sq ft and 1,888 to 2,060 sq ft, providing affordability with prices ranging from RM838,000 to RM1.15 million. Each unit is also equipped with a backyard and a concealed air conditioner ledge on the front facade for a clean and aesthetic appearance. Laelia III comprises two distinct designs. In RT1, a larger living area is accompanied by a designated foyer, providing an elaborate entrance into the living space for a harmonious transition from the outside to the home.

THURSDAY | DEC 14, 2023 Editorial T: 03-7784 6688 F: 03-7785 2624/5 E: [email protected] Advertising T: 03-7784 8888 F: 03-7784 4424 SCAN ME E: [email protected] Stay calm and optimistic, palm oil producers advised KUALA LUMPUR: Palm oil producing countries should remain calm and optimistic next year and not get nervous about facing the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) that will be enforced in 2025, said the Council of Palm Oil Producing Countries (CPOPC). Its secretary general Dr Rizal Affandi Lukman, said the council stands ready in communicating all of the preparations under the joint task force which focuses on five work streams – ensuring the inclusion of smallholders in the supply chain; recognition of national certification schemes (Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO) and Indonesian Sustainable Palm Oil (ISPO); establishment of traceability tools; country benchmarking; and protection of private data. “We don’t have to be nervous in approaching this because under the joint task force, CPOPC stands ready in ensuring in communicating all the preparations. “So, just be confident that we can pass through all the preparations smoothly next year once the EUDR is implemented,” he told the media after presenting a roundtable discussion titled ‘How CPOPC views the Challenges and Opportunities of Palm Oil Industry in 2024 here on Tuesday. The European Union (EU) announced the EUDR on Dec 6, 2022, stating that the regulation is aimed at preventing deforestation due to agricultural activities. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, who is now also Energy Transition and Public Utilities Minister, said the regulation’s implementation is based on unsound reasoning and has a weak scientific basis. The former Plantation and Commodities Minister formed a mutual agreement with Indonesia’s Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs, Dr Airlangga Hartarto, to protect the interests of the palm oil sector by strengthening efforts in dealing with the discrimination against the industry. In May, Fadillah and Airlangga went on a joint mission to the EU to defend the palm oil industry and, after the mission, they established an ad hoc task force to find solutions to compel the EU to consider the views of producing countries and discuss the effects of the regulations on the producers, particularly smallholders, and the guidelines on the implementation. Meanwhile, CPOPC deputy secretarygeneral Datuk Nageeb Wahab said he acknowledged that 2024 is going to be challenging, but the council will focus on the joint task force addressing the issues resulting from the EUDR. “Besides the EUDR, we expect new legislation on forced labour to come out,” he said. Nageeb said the CPOPC had organised the Sustainable Vegetable Oil Conference in Bali, Indonesia, in November 2022 and in Mumbai, India, in September 2023 in order to embrace the world’s main vegetables oil. The CPOPC plans to organise the third such conference in the Netherlands in September next year. It has been reported that CPOPC aims to have 93% of the world’s palm oil producing countries as members by next year, and countries such as Thailand, Papua New Guinea, Colombia, Ghana, and Nigeria are expected to be on board by then. – Bernama KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia needs to move beyond the notion that finance alone will resolve issues related to environmental, social and governance (ESG) adoption by small and medium enterprises, said Universiti Malaya Faculty of Business and Economics Professor Dr Vgr Chandran Govindaraju. He said that finance and regulatory conditions seem to be secondary in most cases based on his research, “Reconceptualising Our Understanding on the Motivations of ESG Adoption in SMEs: Lessons for Policy Interventions”. “There’s a whole hype in terms of pushing financial incentives. But what our observation shows is that it is more than finance. So it is not finance that matters that much, but it is the knowhow and other knowledge that will be required by the SMEs to promote ESG,” he said at the Sustainable Development for Thriving Communities 2023 Conference yesterday. “Now, of course, the regulatory framework is important. We are not saying that it is not. But for them to start off, it’s not about the regulatory framework itself, it’s about value creation. So, in that context, if you have a lack of knowledge, it is difficult to push towards the adoption of ESG,” he added. Chandran’s research found three themes as motives for ESG adoption among SMEs, regardless of the industry. The themes are selfdiscovery, new path creation and market pressure. “The first one is self-discovery. The journey often begins in many small and medium industries with the owner discovering what ESG entails and then attempting to figure out how to implement the indicators or elements of ESG within their businesses,” he said. In this process, the capability of owners to manoeuvre their businesses and align themselves with the ESG framework is significant. “However, what we found is that the regulatory framework does not provide them with adequate information, it’s too complex for them to understand,” said Chandran. The next aspect involves efforts to forge a new path within the context of their businesses. “The new path creation for businesses always centres on economic value creation for the firm itself, differentiating itself in terms of business practices through the use of ESG in these contexts,“ he said. The third factor is market pressure, primarily from clients. The demand from clients is crucial for them to implement ESG. “If there’s recognition for the implementation of some of these ESG practices, it means there’s an external push towards the firm regarding whether they want to adopt ESG or not,“ he added. Chandran said there is a common trend or alignment among different cases or situations when it comes to strategies. “What moderates some of this is the ability to be innovative and creative. So, it means talent is very important. Most often, in these SMEs, the owners are the creators, the innovators,“ he said. However, he added that the motives driving these strategies are dynamic and evolutionary . Miti to make sure Malaysian firms benefit from CPTPP, RCEP import duty cuts KUALA LUMPUR: The Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (Miti) is facing the challenge of increasing the rate of use of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) among local companies even though they have been enforced since 2022. In a reply through the parliament website dated Dec 12, the ministry said it found that it still took time for local companies to understand the import duty reduction schedule of CPTPP and RCEP member countries and identify the products that would benefit the most through the reduction of the duties under the agreements. “Local companies are still using other free trade agreements (FTA) that have been in force for a long time such as the Asean Trade in Goods Agreement, the Asean-China FTA and the Asean-Japan FTA which offer duty rates that are the same or lower,” it said in reply to Senator Tan Sri Low Kian Chuan’s question regarding the challenges and percentage of RCEP and CPTPP usage rates. In order to increase awareness of the opportunities and benefits of the two FTA, Miti is actively conducting engagement sessions with the industry. This year, Miti has carried out more than 20 engagement sessions with various industry bodies, including chambers of commerce and industry associations. – Bernama oNo need to get nervous over EU deforestation regulation, joint task force making preparations, says council Govindaraju during his presentation at the Sustainable Development for Thriving Communities 2023 Conference. Accelerated ACE to Main Market listing transfer process to start on Jan 1 PETALING JAYA: The Securities Commission Malaysia (SC) yesterday introduced an accelerated transfer process to facilitate the promotion of eligible ACE Market-listed companies to the Main Market of Bursa Malaysia. The framework will take effect on Jan 1, 2024 through amendments to the Equity Guidelines. The accelerated transfer of listing is part of a slew of capital market measures introduced by the SC to improve stock market vibrancy and reduce market friction. SC chairman Datuk Seri Dr Awang Adek Hussin said, “The ACE Market has remained a significant source of financing within the Malaysian equity capital market, with 20 ACE Market listings raising RM1.26 billion through initial public offerings as of October this year. This accelerated transfer process will benefit sizeable, qualified ACE Market companies by accelerating the transfer to the Main Market for greater visibility and access to a larger pool of investors, including foreign and institutional investors, he added. Transferring to the Main Market, which is the prime market for established companies, demonstrates that the ACE Market-listed companies have achieved the standards in terms of quality, size and operations. Under the accelerated transfer process, an ACE Market-listed company must, among others, have a daily market capitalisation of at least RM1 billion for the past six months, and meet the profit requirements for companies seeking listing on the Main Market. █ BY HAYATUN RAZAK [email protected] ‘Know-how, not finance, key to ESG adoption by SMEs’

BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE THURSDAY | DEC 14, 2023 14 Contact theSun's Sales & Marketing team to book your advertising space. Malaysian Paper 03-7784 6688 [email protected] Advertise with us on Chinese New Year Special on JAN 26, 2024 Chinese New Year SPECIAL Let’s welcome the Year of the Dragon with us! In the Chinese culture, the dragon represents good luck, strength and health, and those are what we wish for you, while you check out our Chinese New Year supplement, to let yourself be aware of the current and upcoming festive sales, deals and promotions. PUBLICATION DATE 26 JANUARY, 2024 (Friday) BOOKING DEADLINE 12 JANUARY, 2024 (Friday) Millennium Welt, Gentari team up for EV charging flagship store oBMW brands dealer partner and clean energy solutions provider break ground on first-of-its-kind facility in Southeast Asia PETALING JAYA: Millennium Welt, a dealer partner for BMW, MINI and BMW Motorrad brands, and Gentari Malaysia, a clean energy solutions provider, yesterday broke ground on their first EV Charging Flagship Store which will offer a new concept and experience. BMW Asia-Pacific, Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa sales region senior vice-president JeanPhillipe Parain said the Millennium Welt and Gentari EV Charging Flagship Store, located at Jalan Kuching, Kuala Lumpur, will offer a first-of-its-kind concept for electric vehicle charging in Southeast Asia. Based on the concept of an EV charging store, the facility enables the charging of multiple vehicles at one time with a specialised store representing the brands of the BMW Group. “The facility demonstrates the Retail.Next appearance as well as services which is developed to complement the future mobility capabilities of our new products and offerings,” Parain said. Millennium Welt Group managing director Bryan Wong said the groundbreaking ceremony represents not only the commencement of their first EV Charging Flagship Store, but the realisation of a vision that is deeply rooted in their commitment to redefining the future of mobility. “At Millennium Welt, we believe that electrification goes beyond a choice, it is a lifestyle. Through our partnership with Gentari, we are able to take a leap towards advancing the electric mobility experience by creating an immersive space where cutting-edge technology is seamlessly integrated with sustainable solutions to meet the evolving needs of our valued customers. I am thrilled about our transformative journey ahead as we continue to set the standard for a cleaner and more sustainable nation,” he added. Shah Yang Razalli, deputy CEO of Gentari and CEO of Gentari Green Mobility Sdn Bhd, said, “We are pleased to do our part in levelling up the EV charging experience in Malaysia through this EV Charging Flagship Store, jointly developed with our partner, Millennium Welt. Beyond the deployment of 14 EV charging points, including high-speed 240kW and AC chargers, we are also introducing a vibrant experience hub for the Malaysia enjoyment of our customers while they charge.” The EV Charging Flagship Store – which is to be powered completely by renewable energy sources – will house a display area capable of featuring 66 cuttingedge electric vehicles, in addition to seamlessly integrated services, including a dedicated showroom and insurance renewal business. From left: Gentari Green Mobility marketing and customer growth head Ben Quah, Shah Yang, Parain, Wong, BMW Group Malaysia current managing director Hans de Visser and BMW Group Malaysia (from January 2024) managing director Benjamin Nagel. Sime Darby completes acquisition of majority stake in UMW PETALING JAYA: UMW Holdings Bhd yesterday announced that Sime Darby Bhd has completed the acquisition of a 61.2% stake, making Sime Darby the new major shareholder of UMW. Following the completion of the acquisition of the majority stake of UMW from Permodalan Nasional Bhd, Sime Darby will initiate a mandatory general offer for the remaining UMW shares that it does not own, with the aim of delisting UMW from Bursa Malaysia. In conjunction with the change in major shareholder which also resulted in changes to its board, UMW is looking forward to welcoming several new members comprising Sime Darby’s independent non-executive director Tan Sri Muhammad Shahrul Ikram Yaakob, Sime Darby’s Group CEO Datuk Jeffri Salim Davidson, as well as Mustamir Mohamad. UMW expressed gratitude to departing directors Datin Paduka Kartini Abdul Manaf, Shahin Farouque Jammal Ahmad and Ahmad Adib Mukhtar for their contributions to the company. Mustamir, who has been appointed as UMW’s new president and group CEO, said, “I am honoured to lead UMW during this important integration phase with Sime Darby. UMW boasts a rich history and a longstanding reputation as a cornerstone in the Malaysian automotive sector. “We aim to build upon the solid foundation laid by UMW and explore new business opportunities by leveraging Sime Darby’s established distribution network and regional influence.” UMW’s November auto sales up 8% from a year ago PETALING JAYA: UMW Group recorded strong automotive sales for November 2023 with the registration of 42,315 vehicles, 8% higher than the 39,034 units delivered in November 2022, as both UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) and UMW’s associate company Perodua continue to deliver their outstanding orders. Accordingly, the group’s automotive sales increased by 16% to 396,820 units for the first 11 months of 2023, from the 341,390 units registered in the same period of 2022. UMWT registered delivery of 10,263 units in Nov 2023, close to the 10,442 units delivered in Nov 2022. Year-to-date November 2023, UMWT registered 97,705 units, recording an 8% growth compared with the 90,595 units registered in the corresponding period of 2022. To further strengthen its order book, UMWT is offering special promotions for the purchase of selected Toyota models through its “Drive into the New Year with Toyota” campaign this month. Perodua registered 32,052 units in November 2023, 12% higher compared with the 28,592 units delivered in November 2022, mainly due to the improving supply chain as well as enhancement of production and logistics. Year-to-date Nov 2023, Perodua’s sales surged to 299,115 units, 19% higher than the 250,795 units delivered in the same period of 2022. For the first eleven months of 2023, Perodua’s top selling models were Bezza, followed by Axia and Myvi. Year to November 2023, both UMWT and Perodua registered higher sales compared with the same period of 2022. The strong sales achieved was driven by the introduction of competitive and exciting new models as well as attractive sales promotions.

BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE THURSDAY | DEC 14, 2023 15 Sapura Energy debt revamp plan gets financiers’ approval PETALING JAYA: Sapura Energy Bhd has received written confirmation from the Corporate Debt Restructuring Committee (CDRC) that at least 75% of the financiers of its approximately RM10.3 billion in MultiCurrency Financing Facilities (MCF Financiers) have provided the requisite approval-inprinciple for a proposed debt restructuring scheme (PRS). The confirmation marks a significant milestone in Sapura Energy’s reset plan, which includes efforts to address its unsustainable level of debt and amounts owed to trade creditors. The achievement reflects the company’s commitment to formulating a fair and equitable solution for all its stakeholders, particularly Malaysian vendors who are small and medium enterprises. The exercise involves about RM1.5 billion in claims from vendors. Since September last year, Sapura Energy and the MCF Financiers have been engaged in CDRC-mediated negotiations to reach an accord on the PRS. The approval-in-principle for the PRS paves the way for court-convened meetings with the relevant classes of creditors of Sapura Energy and its relevant subsidiaries. “The board of directors and senior management of Sapura Energy extend their appreciation to the members of the CDRC for their invaluable guidance and professionalism during the mediation process. We are also grateful to the MCF Financiers for their continued support for Sapura Energy,” said Sapura Energy group CEO Datuk Mohd Anuar Taib. “We also wish to record our special acknowledgment to our advisers PricewaterhouseCoopers Advisory Services Sdn Bhd, Sage 3, Saheran Suhendran, Rahmat Lim & Partners, Kirkland & Ellis, Malaysian The abundant stockpiles of palm oil derivatives indicate that demand for cooking oils were softer. – BERNAMAPIX oConfirmation marks significant progress of group’s reset plan, which includes efforts to address amounts owed to trade creditors CLMT converts RM693m facility from CIMB into SLL KUALA LUMPUR: CapitaLand Malaysia Trust (CLMT), through its trustee MTrustee Bhd and CIMB Bank Bhd announced that CLMT’s loan facility of RM693 million from CIMB has been converted into a sustainability-linked loan (SLL) for funding the acquisition of Queensbay Mall in Penang. This facility marks CLMT’s largest loan facility to-date and is linked to the sustainability performance targets of Queensbay Mall. CIMB will offer CLMT interest rate rebates on the committed term loan facility. These rebates will be based on pre-determined sustainability performance targets that have been set for Queensbay Mall. These include obtaining green building certification and achieving targeted reductions in energy consumption and are subjected to stringent third-party verifications. A signing ceremony was held between CapitaLand Malaysia REIT Management (CMRM) CEO Tan Choon Siang and CIMB Group corporate banking of group wholesale banking, group head Lee Heng Keng. Tan said, “CLMT is firmly committed to incorporate sustainability practices with our business strategies and operations across our entire portfolio. By integrating ESG performance with our financial metrics, we reinforce our commitment to sustainability and responsible growth. Since obtaining our first sustainability-linked loan in Dec 2022, we have successfully raised approximately RM750 million in sustainability linked finance. With the support of our partners such as CIMB, we are well-positioned to elevate our ESG efforts through our sustainable financing initiatives, in line with CapitaLand’s 2030 Sustainability Master Plan.” CIMB Group group wholesale banking coCEO Novan Amirudin said, “We are honoured to embark on this journey with CLMT in the undertaking of this sustainability-linked financing, a testament to CIMB’s continued commitment to supporting clients from a wide range of industries and sectors to advance their ESG agenda and create positive impact through innovative sustainable finance solutions. The transaction is also in line with the group’s ambition to become a leading focused Asean bank and Asean sustainability leader under our Forward23+ strategic plan.” Research houses forecast softer CPO prices in December on abundant stocks KUALA LUMPUR: The average local crude palm oil (CPO) delivery price is forecast to close 0.4% month-onmonth lower to RM3,684 per tonne in December from RM3,700 per tonne in November due to the abundance of year-end stocks, said MIDF Research. In a note yesterday, it said Malaysia’s CPO production stayed at 1.8 million tonnes in November as estate activities had increased with newly hired foreign workers, particularly in the peninsula, and no strong El Nino appearance. Palm oil exports remained weak at 1.4 million tonnes in November due to high inventories in major importing countries, as stockpiles of palm oil derivatives stood at 2.4 million tonnes in November. “The abundant stockpiles of palm oil derivatives indicate that demand for cooking oils, particularly transfree fats such as margarine, shortening and vegetable ghee or food products were softer. “This has been reflected in recent quarter results, where integrated companies like Kuala Lumpur Kepong Bhd, IOI Corporation Bhd, and FGV Holdings Bhd downstream arm (oleo plant and refinery) have - 1.6% to merely +0.7% profit margin,” it said. Thus, MIDF Research maintained a neutral call on the sector with an average CPO price forecast of RM3,800 per tonne and RM3,600 per tonne for 2023-2024, respectively. Meanwhile, Hong Leong Investment Bank Bhd said stockpiles will likely remain flattish in December, as seasonally low production which started in November will be offset by weak near-term demand sentiment from China and price competition from other competing oils. “We maintain 2023-2024 CPO price assumptions of RM3,850 per tonne and RM4,000 per tonne respectively, as we expect El Nino’s impact on palm production and prices to kick in around mid-2024. “We also maintain a neutral call on the sector, given the absence of notable demand catalyst,” it said. Similarly, Kenanga Investment Hartalega tipped to post better second-half FY24 earnings KUALA LUMPUR: Maybank Investment Bank (Maybank IB) Bhd expects better earnings from the glove manufacturer Hartalega Holdings Bhd in the second half of 2024 (H2’24) on better cost efficiency and a higher utilisation rate post the decommissioning of its Bestari Jaya Facility (BJFD). In a research note yesterday, the bank said the utilisation rate is expected to improve to over 50% in the coming quarters, leading to lower production costs. “On top of the lower pricing, we believe the better sales volume is also driven by restocking activities. Utilisation rate is expected to improve further with the completion of BJFD by January 2024,” it said. It also said that the cost savings and efficiency gains from the BJFD exercise would allow Hartalega to defend its operating margin if it fails to pass on any higher raw material costs, as well as allowing the group to price its products more competitively. “Raw material prices are showing signs of stabilising with both natural latex and nitrile latex prices declining by 3% and 1%, respectively, since November 2023. “Since Hartalega has limited bargaining power in pricing for lightweight nitrile gloves, it would be paramount for it to focus on cost efficiency and sales volume,” it said. Hence, Maybank Investment has raised the financial year 2024 (FY24), FY25 and FY26 core earnings forecasts by 116%, 2%, and 3%, respectively, after factoring in a higher utilisation rate assumption of 54.5% for FY24 as well as lower natural latex and nitrile latex price assumptions. “Our target price is raised 77 sen to RM3.02 with the re-rating to reflect an improved earnings outlook,” it said, adding that it has upgraded its call to a tactical “buy” on Hartalega from “hold” previously. – Bernama Industrial Development Finance Bhd, and Albar & Partners, as well as the advisers to the MCF Financiers including Kroll, Wong & Partners and Mayer Brown. Their collaboration, strategic insights, and commitment were instrumental in achieving this accomplishment.” Mohd Anuar said the company and its advisers will continue working with the MCF Financiers and the CDRC to achieve successful closure of this debt restructuring. “With the approval-in-principle, we are quite confident that we are now approaching the last few milestones of this journey. This is indeed a positive step towards regularising our financial position, ultimately helping Sapura Energy exit from its status as a Practice Note 17 company,” he added. He also acknowledged Sapura Energy’s clients and vendors who had maintained their confidence in the company throughout this challenging period. “Given the hurdles we faced, it’s understandable that not everyone could give us their backing. Hence, we are immensely grateful to the valued partners who have consistently demonstrated their unwavering support,” Anuar remarked. Bank Bhd maintained its neutral call for the sector and projects flattish CPO prices of RM3,800 per tonne in 2024, with demand growth normalising at 3-4% year-on-year and supply looking to stay tight. It noted that production cost has been easing since mid-2023 and should stay soft into 2024. “El Nino has been mild so far, but ageing trees are now expected to dampen palm oil yields instead. Given firm CPO prices with softer cost outlook, the sector’s 2024 profit should recover,” it said. – Bernama

COMMUNITY COMMUNITY 16 THURSDAY | DEC 14, 2023 Individuals push ahead with zero-waste iniPETALING JAYA: In the affluent gated community in Sri Hartamas in Kuala Lumpur, a greyish blue van, beat-up and dusty, stands out like a sore thumb. The side and back doors are open and a makeshift canopy juts out from one side, shielding an eclectic mix of goods on the tables, including reusable menstrual cups and cloth purses, from the blistering sun. A sign with the name “Refiller Mobile” hangs off the side of the van with lists of items and prices next to them. Oh Sok Peng sits in the van, pixielike and clad in an old t-shirt and black cut-off jeans, surrounded by mini tanks full of various liquids. She wipes the sweat off her brow before continuing to pump green liquid into a used laundry detergent bottle. She touts her business as “working to reduce plastic”. And yet, here she is, filling up plastic bottles with liquids from large plastic containers. “For us, our business is not antiplastic. We’re not trying to say plastic is bad and we need to ban it. In our lives, we still need plastic containers to keep liquid items or for storage as well,” she told Bernama. She wipes down the bottle, sets it aside and starts refilling another one, this time with dishwashing liquid. Even though she said she is not antiplastic, what she is doing is very much part of managing plastic waste. Why she is doing it is two-pronged: she is trying to prevent new plastics from entering the market and stop sending plastic waste into landfills after one use by keeping present plastics in circulation. To do so, she is willing to drive to various communities – ranging from Rawang to Bangsar – almost every day, revisiting them once every two months. It is all part of the zero-waste or lowwaste lifestyle of reusing, repurposing as well as reducing plastic. The movement has been gaining popularity worldwide including in Malaysia. And considering the country’s placement in the global plastic trash rankings, it is not a moment too soon. Malaysia has a plastic trash problem. Depending on which survey you read and who you talk to, Malaysia is either the second, fifth or eighth worst plastic polluter in the world. Studies have shown microplastics, which are tiny pieces of plastic measuring five millimetres or less, are present in the clouds and the deepest oceans as well as in animals and the human body. According to Solid Waste and Public Cleansing Management Corporation (SWCorp), 101,949 metric tonnes of plastic, or 13% of the total 772,349 metric tonnes of trash generated by Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya residents in 2021, ended up in landfills. Only 152.87 metric tonnes of plastic were recycled, at a plastic recycling rate of 16%. In 2022, the plastic recycling rate improved but the amount of plastic and general waste produced increased even more. Overall trash generated in Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya last year stood at 796,795 metric tonnes of which plastic comprised 210,966 metric tonnes or 26.5%. The recycling rate for plastic was 18% while the recycling rate for all waste was 33.16%, which was below the 2025 target of 40%. Reducing, repurposing and reusing are part of the country’s circular economy plan for managing plastic Oh sits in the van, surrounded by mini tanks full of various liquids. – MOBILE REFILLERPIC oDifficult to sustain because it involves behavioural change but we can start by introducing regulations: Don waste, along with recycling. However, since the Malaysian recycling rate is sub-par, it stands to reason that reducing the amount of plastic waste going into landfills by any means is a good thing. The low-waste movement has attracted more devotees intent on doing their part for the environment, and several small companies are not only providing refills of food items and household products but also producing and selling plastic-free or sustainable products. One of them is Minimise, a zerowaste store located in Subang Jaya and run by Jayne Lee and her business partner Tan Pei Yen. Lee told Bernama she conceived the idea in 2019 when she became curious about plastic waste after reading about single-use plastics like straws. “I discovered that actually there is an impact and how we use things in daily life. I was wondering how I could reduce my impact,” she said. The answer is the store that sells personal products that are plastic-free in plastic-free or sustainable packaging. The products range from toothbrushes made from bamboo and chewable toothpaste to reusable cloth napkins and menstrual cups and lip balms. Other items include metal lunch boxes and silicone lids for food containers. Lee and Tan also provide refilling services for household items and Malaysian snacks like love letters and crackers. They also accept recyclable items like bottles and cooking oil, although “recycling should be the last step”, Lee said. One of the products the store carries is Lips Carpenter lip balms. What is rather unusual about the lip balms is that the tubes are made of paper and are plastic-free. Unlike other lip balms in plastic tubes, which one has to twist to push up the balm, her product requires one to push up the stick from underneath. To bring the balm back down, just knock the paper container down on a hard surface and it will drop in place. Lips Carpenter founder Law Yifon tells Bernama she decided to go the low-waste and sustainable route after seeing all the cosmetic waste her products generated a year after starting her business in 2018. “Think about it. A lip balm, you can finish it, if you use it daily, in three months or six months and maximum a year. So why do you need plastic packaging that can last 500 years for a product that should be finished in one year?” she asked. Other than lip balms, Law’s company also makes lipsticks. Although the containers are not plasticfree, the lipsticks are sustainable as they come with a refill option and the containers are recyclable. These zero-waste options should be able to cut into waste generation in Malaysia but there is no evidence that they have had any effect so far. Officials dealing with solid waste have reported that the amount of waste is increasing in tandem with population growth. Does this mean the zero-waste movement has no effect on trash creation? Or not enough people are participating in trying to reduce plastic waste? One of the criticisms of the movement is that it puts the onus on the public rather than corporations or the government. According to a 2017 Carbon Majors Report, 100 companies are responsible for 71% of global climate emissions, most of them oil and gas companies. But the public’s unchecked use and disposal of plastics also play a part. Bernama asked a few Malaysians what they thought of the zero-waste lifestyle and whether this was something they might be interested in. Most were not aware of the movement but they were supportive once they found out. However, many thought adopting the lifestyle would be too difficult. Despite this, zero-waste entrepreneurs and experts say it is important to at least try to reduce one’s waste. UCSI University professor of environmental engineering Prof Datuk Dr Ahmad Ibrahim is not surprised that some members of the public think it is too difficult to go zero-waste. “(Zero-waste lifestyle is) difficult to sustain because it involves behavioural change but we can start by introducing regulations, etc,” he said. He added that a circular economy, which includes the reuse of products and wastes, is crucial to achieving the nation’s goal to go low carbon. WOWO Ecowork owner Chai Pei Chee, 42, said despite its growing popularity, not enough people know about zero waste or understand it. She recently closed her store in Ampang, Selangor, where she provided refilling services and took in bottles to be reused or recycled. Now, she is taking her business online and going mobile, servicing the Ampang area. Oh says we still need plastic containers to keep liquid items or for storage.

COMMUNITY COMMUNITY 17 THURSDAY | DEC 14, 2023 itiatives Ban Canal Carnival celebrates Sabak Bernam’s ecotourism drive PETALING JAYA: The Ban Canal Carnival 2023 culminated on Dec 9 celebrating the unique essence of community, cultural richness and a commitment to sustainable ecotourism in Sabak Bernam. Organised by Menteri Besar Selangor (Incorporated) (MBI) as part of the Sabak Bernam Development Area (Sabda) initiative, this three-day carnival showcased local identity, environmental stewardship and a shared vision for a sustainable future. With a notable 10,000 attendees so far, the carnival has successfully brought together locals and visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Sabak Bernam. The promise of the Ban Canal as a contemporary recreational and eco-tourism hotspot stands as a testament to the region’s dedication to preserving its historical and environmental treasures. Diverse activities at the core of the carnival not only showcased local talent and traditional skills, but also fostered a sense of unity and pride within the community. Among the carnival highlights with 14 activities participated by 1,200 individuals were the Traditional Boat Race, Rekacipta Boat Inovasi and Larian Bendang. Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari said: “The development of Sabda not only focuses on attracting significant investments to drive new economy, but also delves into the activities and support needed to rebuild the community’s life here and aid existing projects through grants, technology infusion, and skills enhancement, among others.” Recognised as a key economic zone under Rancangan Selangor Pertama (RS-1), the Sabda initiative driven by MBI seeks to ensure Selangor’s food security by supporting agriculture projects in Sabak Bernam and advance Selangor’s blue economy, which will focus on the development of the region’s fishing industry including downstream production of seafood, while promoting ecotourism in aquaculture and agriculture with minimal environmental impact. Sabda is expected to bring in some RM1.9 billion in investments that will provide job opportunities for 3,600 people. Sabda chairman Datuk Rizam Ismail, who is also the state executive councillor for rural development, announced that Ban Canal Carnival will become a major eco-tourism event in the Sabda calendar, and hoped to see it listed in the Visit Selangor Year 2025 campaign. “We hope to welcome more participants and visitors from across Malaysia in future editions”. Meanwhile, MBI CEO Norita Mohd Sidek explained that MBI’s commitment to inject new verve into Sabak Bernam extended beyond the carnival by promoting eco-tourism. Regarding financial and technology support to local businesses to improve incomes, she said: “Any grant will encompass skill development aspects to empower the local community. Our goal is to assist the residents of Sabak Bernam in understanding the best ways to utilise new methods for maximum output in farming and fishing, thereby ensuring the future sustainability of businesses and the well-being of the community.” About Sabda, Ban Canal and the carnival Sabak Bernam Development Area (Sabda) UNDER the leadership of MBI, the Sabak Bernam Area Development (Sabda) empowers the community to build a thriving ecosystem by enhancing food security, resilience, and sustainable living in the district. Sabda, driven by MBI Selangor and mandated by the Selangor state government as a key economic initiative under the First Selangor Plan (RS-1), is a comprehensive initiative aimed at boosting the blue economy of Selangor, ensuring food security in Selangor and promoting ecotourism in Sabak Bernam. i. Aquaculture & blue economy Fostering the blue economy to enhance sustainable seafood production in Selangor, while promoting sustainable growth and environmental responsibility. ii. Food security in Selangor Enhancing the availability and accessibility of staple foods by leveraging technology to strengthen local agriculture, while expanding crop diversity to ensure resilience in the agricultural sector. iii. Promoting ecotourism Promoting ecotourism in aquaculture and agriculture with minimal environmental impact. Ban Canal’s history The Ban Canal, also known as Bangkenal, is a crucial infrastructure in Selangor. Constructed collaboratively by the village residents and British citizens during the colonial era, this significant canal starts from Tanjung Karang and later intersects with the Tengi River, connected through the watergate. Originally built as an irrigation system to supply sufficient water for padi fields from Tanjung Karang to Sabak Bernam, Ban Canal has transformed from an agricultural resource to a tourism destination. Beyond being a mere canal, it has become a recreational destination for the local community. About Ban Canal Carnival 2023 The Ban Canal Carnival is a community carnival initiated in 2022 with the aim of promoting the growth of the tourism industry based on villages and agriculture, serving as a key driver for the Sabak Bernam area through various water sports activities. The residents have organised this carnival by showcasing the cultural richness and unique activities in Sabak Bernam. The carnival highlights the ecological uniqueness and exciting activities in the area, providing a platform for the community to showcase their products and for supporting agencies to express solidarity with the local community and visitors from outside the area. To continue the success of the previous Ban Canal carnival, MBI, together with the Sabak Bernam District Council and the Selangor Canoe Association, is once again organising the carnival this year. This carnival has become a key annual event in the annual Sabda calendar. The previous carnival successfully attracted over 3,000 visitors and involved 300 participants in various water sports activities. This year, the carnival emphasises the benefits of investing in the environment and bringing long-term advantages to the local community and the economy. It not only helps preserve the environment but also opens up opportunities for sustainable economic development through sectors such as ecotourism, sustainable agriculture and industries that practise ecofriendly methods. Investing in the environment can also contribute to job opportunities and the empowerment of the local community, all while maintaining the beauty and uniqueness of natural resources for future generations. A rappelling display during the three-day carnival. Amirudin (third from right) releases birds to launch the carnival. “In my area, nobody knows what I’m doing. They ask me, ’What are you doing? Filling the green colour dishwash (liquid) in the mineral bottle, what ah?’ “And then from the outside, they think I’m selling very, very expensive organic things so that’s why some of them dare not step into my shop. (To them) organic means expensive,” she said, adding the products are, in fact, cheaper than those sold in supermarkets. Oh agreed. A big part of the price tags on products in grocery stores is for the packaging which tends to be highquality sturdy plastic. By refilling and reusing the bottles, consumers will just be paying for the content and not the packaging. “When they come to my van, they find out ‘Oh, the price is so affordable’, ‘Oh, you can help me save my plastic bottles’. They (become) even more open to this idea,” she said. Zero-waste services are not without their limitations. In the mobile refill service case, there is only a certain distance Oh and others like her can cover without leaving a huge carbon footprint. In Oh’s case, she says she also needs a guaranteed number of clients for every venue she visits to make the trip worthwhile. As for brick-and-mortar stores, they are extremely local, servicing mostly the communities in which the stores are located. And online stores will have to grapple with using some plastic packaging such as bubble wrap when delivering their products. All this effort can feel Sisyphean, that is, working so hard to achieve a goal that yields no discernible results unless a huge swath of the world’s population joins in. And in some cases, elimination is not possible. Nevertheless, Lee thinks adopting zero waste is easier than it seems, saying recycling is a more difficult habit to instil. After all, reusing and repurposing items have been in Malaysians’ psyche for a long time, such as repurposing the shortbread biscuit tin as a sewing kit or ice cream containers as food containers. What anyone needs is to take that step and have patience. “It takes a lot of practice before you can do it. Like us, we’ve been here two years, we are now starting to see people that came very early on and now starting to get into the lifestyle habits,” Lee said.

BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE THURSDAY | DEC 14, 2023 18 /thesundaily FOLLOW ON FACEBOOK Malaysian Paper Test for UK central bank’s resolve as economy shrinks oGDP contracts by 0.3% in October from previous month but BoE expected to maintain interest rate LONDON: Britain’s economy shrank in October, official data showed yesterday, testing the Bank of England’s resolve to stick to its tough line against signalling cuts to interest rates from their 15-year high. Gross domestic product (GDP) fell by 0.3% from September, the Office for National Statistics said. A Reuters poll of economists had pointed to no change in GDP in October. It was the first time since July that GDP had shrunk on a monthby-month basis. Sterling fell by about a third of a cent against the US dollar and was weaker against the euro too. Investors have responded to other signs of a cooling in Britain’s economy by bringing forward their bets on when the BoE is likely to cut interest rates for the first time. However, the central bank is widely expected to keep bank rate at 5.25% today and signal once again that it is not close to cutting them. Paul Dales, chief UK economist at Capital Economics, said the October GDP reading suggested Britain might be in a recession. “That may nudge the Bank of England a little closer to cutting interest rates, although when leaving rates at 5.25% tomorrow the bank will probably push back against the idea of near-term rate cuts,” Dales said. In the three months to October, GDP flat-lined, the ONS said, weaker than the Reuters poll forecast of a 0.1% increase. Britain’s economy avoided a contraction in the July-toSeptember period – when it also showed no change – but some analysts think it remains at risk of a shallow recession in late 2023 and early 2024 after the BoE’s increases in interest rates. The economy has flat-lined through most of 2023, with the level of economic output now back at its January level. The ONS data yesterday showed Britain’s dominant services sector shrank by 0.2% in October while manufacturing and construction contracted by 1.1% and 0.5% respectively. The economy was 2% bigger than immediately before the Covid19 pandemic hit Britain in early 2020, a stronger performance than thought before recent ONS data revisions but another weak period for living standards nonetheless. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and finance minister Jeremy Hunt have promised to speed up economic growth but no significant pickup is expected before a national election that Sunak must call before January 2025. “October’s negative outturn puts the prime minister’s target to get the economy growing in jeopardy, with high inflation and borrowing costs likely to suppress economic activity in November and December,” Suren Thiru, economics director at ICAEW, an accountancy body, said. – Reuters China shows off home-grown C919 jet in Hong Kong HONG KONG: China’s new domestically produced passenger jet made its debut outside the mainland yesterday, with international media in Hong Kong getting their first up-close look. The C919 made its maiden commercial flight in May and is key to Beijing’s decades-long ambitions to compete with European and US rivals in the air and cut down C h i n a ’ s reliance on foreign technology. Chinese authorities hope the sleek, narrow-body aircraft – built by the state-owned Commercial Aircraft Corp of China (Comac) – will challenge foreign models like the Boeing 737 MAX and the Airbus A320. Now on display at Hong Kong International Airport, the C919 will fly over the city’s Victoria Harbour on Saturday. Hong Kong leader John Lee yesterday hailed the development of the C919 and the ARJ21 – a smaller, earlier model made by Comac – as “important milestones” in China’s aviation sector. “China’s successful development of a large passenger jet symbolises its leading position in the transportation manufacturing industry,“ Lee said at a ceremony at the airport. The C919 has received 1,061 orders from more than 30 clients as of this week, officials said in a statement. China has invested heavily in the h o m e g r o w n jetliner as it seeks to b e c o m e s e l f - sufficient in k e y technologies, but many of the C919’s parts are sourced from overseas. The jet received official certification to fly last year after more than a decade in development but has yet to secure any international buyers. More than 60,000 passengers have been transported by two C919 jets that operate the route linking Chinese cities Shanghai and Chengdu, officials said. Reporters and guests were invited to tour the plane yesterday, with the following two days reserved for visits from local community representatives. The C919, which landed in the city on Tuesday, will fly around Hong Kong Island twice Saturday morning if weather permits, the government added. Officials yesterday touted the jet’s “advanced aerodynamic design, state-of-the-art propulsion system and advanced materials” that they said lead to lower emissions and better fuel efficiency. The C919 can be configured to have between 158 and 192 seats and has a maximum range of 5,555km, they added. Asia and China in particular are key targets for European manufacturer Airbus and its American rival Boeing, which are looking to capitalise on growing demand for air travel from the country’s vast middle class. – AFP Key rate still appropriate for economy, says Bank of Thailand BANGKOK: Thailand’s current policy rate at a neutral level remains appropriate for the economy, while inflation is expected to gradually increase to within a target range, central bank officials said yesterday. The policy rate, standing at a decade high of 2.5%, can see off both upside and downside risks to the economy, the officials said, as the government plans a digital wallet policy to give Thais 500 billion baht (RM66 billion) to boost spending. “The current rate at 2.5% is robust for the overall economic picture, with or without the digital wallet,“ Piti Disyatat, the assistant governor of the Bank of Thailand (BOT), told a monetary policy forum. Southeast Asia’s second-largest economy is recovering, albeit slowly, reducing the need for a monetary policy boost, he said, while adding that there was room for fiscal policy to support long-term growth. The bank’s director Phurichai Rungcharoenkitkul said the current policy rate was not impeding the economic recovery and allowed the BOT to move both ways if needed. Last month, the BOT left its key rate unchanged at 2.5% after hiking it by 200 basis points since August last year to curb inflation. It will next review policy on Feb 7, when most economists expect no policy change. Last month, the BOT cut its forecast for 2023 growth to 2.4% from 2.8%. For next year, it predicts growth at 3.2%, but if the digital wallet policy is adopted, growth is seen at 3.8%. The economy expanded 2.6% last year. Headline inflation is forecast to gradually rise to within the central bank’s target range of 1% to 3%, with the rate seen low or negative into early next year due to government subsidies but not reflecting deflation, the BOT said. “We expect inflation to turn positive in the first quarter,“ said senior bank director Surach Tanboon, adding that minimum wage hikes would not affect inflation forecasts. The central bank forecast headline inflation of 1.3% this year and 2% next year, not factoring in digital wallet spending. The headline consumer price index (CPI) fell 0.44% in November on the year, though core CPI rose 0.58% in the month. October and November figures of headline inflation would have been +0.9% and +0.7%, respectively, if not for government subsidies for energy and electricity, central bank data showed. The economic recovery is intact but structural impediments could limit the positive impact of the global economy on exports, the bank’s minutes showed yesterday. – Reuters China has invested heavily in the homegrown jetliner as it seeks to become selfsufficient in key technologies. – AFPPIX B R I E F SINDONESIA TO GRANT EV MAKERS TAX PERKS ON CBU IMPORTS JAKARTA: Indonesia will grant automakers that plan to build electric vehicle (EV) plants tax incentives on their imports of completely built-up EVs until 2025, a new presidential regulation showed as Jakarta seeks to attract more investment. Under the new regulation signed on Dec 8 and released this week, companies that have invested in EV plants, are planning to increase their EV investments, or planning to invest would be eligible for the incentives. The new rules will remove the import duties and the luxury-goods sales tax on the built-up vehicles brought into the country and gives incentives on taxes collected by provincial governments. Indonesia’s government has set an ambitious target of producing some 600,000 EVs by 2030. That would be more than 100 times the number sold in Indonesia in the first half of 2023.– Reuters US TECH FIRMS TEAM UP TO PUSH FOR OPEN DIGITAL ECOSYSTEMS BRUSSELS: Alphabet’s Google, Meta Platforms, Qualcomm and seven other tech companies yesterday teamed up to push for open digital ecosystems in response to new EU tech rules in a move that may also take the edge of possible future legislation. Calling itself the Coalition for Open Digital Ecosystems, the group said it wants to promote more open platforms and systems to boost growth and innovation in Europe. The group said it will work with academics, policymakers and companies on digital openness and how this can be achieved in Europe “through the implementation of the Digital Markets Act and in future EU regulatory framework developments”. – Reuters GERMAN TRAIN DRIVERS PLAN LONGER STRIKE AFTER HOLIDAY SEASON BERLIN: Germany’s GDL train drivers’ union said it planned a strike that would last several days after the Christmas holiday as a wage dispute with rail operator Deutsche Bahn continues. “From Jan 8, you should expect longer labour disputes,“ GDL head Claus Weselsky was quoted as saying by Augsburger Allgemeine yesterday. The union held a 24-hour strike last week, its last strike of the year, after negotiations with Deutsche Bahn broke off at the end of November. The GDL is demanding a reduction in working hours from 38 to 35 hours per week for shift workers, as well as an increase of €555 (RM2,801) per month and a one-off inflation compensation bonus of €3,000. – Reuters

BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE THURSDAY | DEC 14, 2023 19 KUALA LUMPUR: Bursa Malaysia reversed earlier losses to finish in the positive territory due to late buying after experiencing choppy trading throughout the day, a dealer said. At 5pm, the FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI (FBM KLCI) rose 0.92 of-apoint to 1,448.04 compared with Tuesday’s closing of 1,447.12. The key index opened 1.04 points easier at 1,446.08 and moved between 1,443.72 and 1,448.48 throughout the day. The broader market was also positive, with gainers outpacing losers 482 to 378, while 456 counters were unchanged, 1,012 untraded, and 21 others suspended. Turnover improved to 3.76 billion units worth RM2.40 billion from 3.28 billion units worth RM2.38 billion on Tuesday. Rakuten Trade equity research vice-president Thong Pak Leng said the performance of the local bourse was in tandem with the regional markets as investors were cautious ahead of the US Federal Reserve’s (Fed) rate decision later yesterday. He noted that economists worldwide foresee the Fed keeping its benchmark overnight borrowing rate in the range of 5.25% to 5.5%. “As for the local bourse, sentiment might shift towards caution amid increasing market risks and global market volatility. “Yet, we reckon the valuation of the benchmark index is still appealing, offering opportunities for investors. We anticipate the FBM KLCI to remain in its sideways pattern with an upside bias for the rest of the week, pending new catalysts to emerge, and move between the 1,445-1,455 range,” he told Bernama. Regionally, Japan’s Nikkei 225 rose 0.25% to 32,926.35, Singapore’s Strait Times Index was 0.06% better at 3,104.26, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng fell 0.89% to 16,228.75, and South Korea’s Kospi erased 0.97% to 2,510.66. Among heavyweights, Maybank and CIMB were flat at RM9.07 and RM5.79, respectively, Public Bank added one sen at RM4.26, and TNB shed five sen to RM9.88. Of the actives, TWL lost half-a-sen at three sen, Top Glove added eight sen to 87.5 sen, Bina Puri was one sen better at 9.5 sen, Sarawak Cable climbed three sen to 24 sen, and Sapura Energy perked up half-a-sen to five sen. On the index board, the FBM Emas Index rose 31.70 points to 10,713.78, the FBMT 100 Index added 31.46 points to 10,381.02, the FBM Emas Shariah Index increased 41.01 points to 10,815.82, the FBM ACE Index climbed 19.78 points to 5,150.81, while the FBM 70 Index jumped 151.56 points to 14,229.74. Sector-wise, the Financial Services Index shaved off 2.02 points to 16,374.25 and the Energy Index was 6.14 points weaker at 789.33. The Industrial Products and Services Index added 0.64 of-apoint to 170.74 and the Plantation Index was 19.99 points better at 6,993.57. The Main Market volume expanded to 2.49 billion units valued at RM2.13 billion against 1.94 billion units valued at RM2.08 billion on Tuesday. The ACE Market volume improved to 617.69 million shares valued at RM187.42 million versus 587.87 million shares valued at RM204.0 million. STOCKS CLOSING (RM) +/- (RM) VOLUME (’00) NESTLE 116.000 -1.700 1,606 RAPID 25.000 -1.420 4,332 HEXTECH 21.200 -0.800 101 AJI 16.100 -0.180 339 IMASPRO 4.170 -0.180 16,989 HAPSENG 4.640 -0.110 5,472 YNHPROP 4.720 -0.110 10,504 APOLLO 5.370 -0.100 1,225 CDB-C51 0.050 -0.100 100 HLFG 16.280 -0.100 5,347 MYEG-HP 0.065 -0.085 5,000 BURSA 6.720 -0.080 5,603 D&O 3.490 -0.080 20,347 HIBISCS 2.350 -0.070 43,186 SHH 1.440 -0.070 488 ALLIANZ 18.340 -0.060 374 HARNLEN 0.515 -0.060 192,532 YTLPOWR 2.400 -0.060 279,486 AEONCR 5.600 -0.050 2,171 EG 1.540 -0.050 25,149 STOCKS CLOSING (RM) +/- (RM) VOLUME (’00) HEIM 22.700 +0.320 2,804 HARTA 2.530 +0.240 171,709 MBMR 4.460 +0.160 6,195 F&N 27.460 +0.140 1,487 QL 5.670 +0.140 78,775 NDX-CC 0.750 +0.105 170 EUROSP 1.440 +0.100 91 FIMACOR 1.850 +0.100 110 MCEMENT 4.210 +0.090 13,831 MBMR-C2 0.495 +0.090 3,500 VITROX 7.190 +0.090 378 BIPORT 5.100 +0.080 7 CRESNDO 2.180 +0.080 5,853 PETDAG 21.700 +0.080 2,440 PETGAS 16.820 +0.080 9,102 TOPGLOV 0.875 +0.080 1,350,916 UNISEM 3.360 +0.080 2,747 APB 2.490 +0.070 1,274 HARTA-C1V 0.205 +0.070 15,649 KSENG 4.650 +0.070 657 STOCKS VOLUME (’00) CLOSING (RM) +/- (RM) +/- (%) TWL 1,455,410 +0.030 -0.005 -14.29 TOPGLOV 1,350,916 +0.875 +0.080 +10.06 BPURI 1,322,746 +0.095 +0.010 +11.76 SCABLE 1,032,577 +0.240 +0.030 +14.29 SAPNRG 961,247 +0.050 +0.005 +11.11 AGES 870,456 +0.065 +0.010 +18.18 HSI-CTW 785,803 +0.025 -0.005 -16.67 HSI-CR8 783,788 +0.260 -0.025 -8.77 VELESTO 757,114 +0.215 -0.010 -4.44 SAUDEE 713,408 +0.030 - - WIDAD 641,445 +0.465 - - LEFORM 603,606 +0.375 +0.020 +5.63 HSI-HSO 528,850 +0.080 +0.005 +6.67 SCIB 528,143 +0.805 +0.035 +4.55 HANDAL 479,720 +0.125 -0.005 -3.85 YTL 461,918 +1.860 +0.030 +1.64 CAREPLS 412,805 +0.345 +0.050 +16.95 SIMEPROP 386,215 +0.575 -0.010 -1.71 TANCO-WC 368,408 +0.270 - - PUC 368,193 +0.045 - - 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: DECEMBER 13 [ 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 10,713.70 +31.70 FBMKLCI 1,448.04 +0.92 CONSUMER PRODUCTS 552.64 +1.45 INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTS 170.74 +0.64 CONSTRUCTION 185.13 +0.54 FINANCIAL SERVICES 16,374.20 -2.02 ENERGY 789.33 -6.14 TELECOMMUNICATIONS 551.77 -1.97 HEALTH CARE 1,834.68 +72.16 TRANSPORTATION 910.89 +1.30 PROPERTY 837.48 -0.88 PLANTATION 6,993.57 +19.99 FBMSHA 10,815.80 +41.01 FBMACE 5,150.81 +19.78 TECHNOLOGY 62.58 +0.14 TURNOVER: : 3.763 bil VALUE: RM2.400 bil Top 20 Actives Top 20 Gainers (By RM) Top 20 Losers (By RM) Bursa Indices STOCKS CLOSING (RM) +/- (%) VOLUME (’00) AT 0.010 +100.00 7,311 GIIB-WA 0.020 +100.00 8,178 HSI-CRY 0.010 +100.00 49,973 SCIB-WB 0.020 +100.00 57,666 SUPERMX-C3P 0.010 +100.00 4,600 TENAGA-C1W 0.010 +100.00 7,764 ZENTECH-WB 0.010 +100.00 840 SUPERMX-C3T 0.085 +88.89 75,488 KPJ-C7 0.180 +63.64 200 KPJ-C5 0.065 +62.50 6,000 TOPGLOV-C3K 0.040 +60.00 17,950 TOPGLOV-C3T 0.085 +54.55 3,400 HARTA-C1V 0.205 +51.85 15,649 AGES-PA 0.015 +50.00 41,700 BIOHLDG-PA 0.015 +50.00 2,381 CLASSITA-WC 0.015 +50.00 2,300 EVD-WB 0.045 +50.00 23,605 INARI-C2G 0.090 +50.00 5,500 PDZ-WC 0.015 +50.00 1,155 SIMEPLT-C16 0.015 +50.00 54 Top 20 Gainers (By %) STOCKS CLOSING (RM) +/- (%) VOLUME (’00) CDB-C51 0.050 -66.67 100 MYCRON-WA 0.005 -66.67 500 FFB-CU 0.020 -60.00 2,801 MYEG-HP 0.065 -56.67 5,000 HSI-CRT 0.005 -50.00 15,608 SENHENG-CG 0.005 -50.00 21,096 SP500-H33 0.005 -50.00 630 VIZIONE-WE 0.005 -50.00 2,311 MAXIS-C42 0.060 -40.00 1,070 HIBISCS-C55 0.010 -33.33 20,350 MTOUCHE-WD 0.010 -33.33 1,910 NEXGRAM-WD 0.010 -33.33 3,671 SIMEPROP-C21 0.020 -33.33 1,000 NIO-C8 0.105 -30.00 30 DRBHCOMC2Z 0.025 -28.57 4,001 NDX-C9 0.115 -28.13 120 ATECH-CF 0.110 -26.67 455 AXIATA-C96 0.015 -25.00 2,600 MERIDIAN-WC 0.015 -25.00 635 BAUTO-C35 0.020 -20.00 14,230 Top 20 Losers (By %) INDEX CLOSING DAILY DAILY CHANGE CHANGE (%) DJIA (US) 36,577.94 +173.01 +0.48 S&P 500 (US) 4,643.70 +21.26 +0.46 NASDAQ (US) 14,533.40 +100.91 +0.70 NYSE (US) 16,285.94 +11.50 +0.07 EURO STOXX 50 (EUR) 4,550.03 +13.42 +0.30 FTSE 100 (UK) 7,562.72 +19.95 +0.26 DAX (GER) 16,819.73 +27.99 +0.17 NIKKEI 225 (JPN) 32,926.35 +82.65 +0.25 TOPIX (JPN) 2,354.92 +1.76 +0.07 HANG SENG INDEX (HK) 16,228.75 -145.75 -0.89 CSI 300 (CHN) 3,369.60 -57.20 -1.67 SH SE COM (CHN) 2,968.76 -34.68 -1.15 KOSPI INDEX (SK) 2,510.66 -24.61 -0.97 MSCI ASIA PACIFIC 161.60 +0.69 +0.43 ASX 200 (AUS) 7,257.79 +22.50 +0.31 ALL ORDINARIES INDX (AUS) 7,469.14 +22.77 +0.31 SENSEX INDEX (IND) 69,410.94 -140.09 -0.20 FBM KLCI 1,448.04 +0.92 +0.06 STRAITS TIMES INDEX (S’PORE) 3,104.26 +1.95 +0.06 WTI (US$/BBL.) 68.15 -0.46 -0.67 BRENT (US$/BBL.) 72.74 -0.50 -0.68 GOLD (COMEX) (US$/T OZ) 1,995.80 +2.60 +0.13 SILVER (COMEX) (US$/T OZ) 22.93 -0.09 -0.37 PLATINUM (US$/T OZ) 930.71 -2.36 -0.25 COPPER (COMEX) (US CENTS/LB.) 375.75 -3.00 -0.79 COPPER 3MO (LME) (US$/MT) 8,355.00 +14.00 +0.17 CORN (US CENTS/BU.) 482.25 -3.00 -0.62 WHEAT (US CENTS/BU.) 619.75 -5.75 -0.92 SOYBEAN OIL (CBOT) (US CENTS/LB.) 50.36 -0.05 -0.10 COCOA (ICE) (US$/MT) 4,235.00 +24.00 +0.57 RUBBER (S’PORE) (US CENTS/KG) 142.70 -1.70 -1.18 World Stocks/Commodities as at 5pm, Dec 13 Bursa reverses earlier losses, ends slightly higher 1448.04 pts Dec 13, 2023

BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE THURSDAY | DEC 14, 2023 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. INDUSTRIAL Production Index (IPI) rebounded strongly in Oct (2.7% YoY; Sep: -0.5%), marking its highest in five months and surpassing consensus (2.4%) and house forecast (2.3%). The positive performance was from a broad-based expansion, led by the mining sector and the waning of the high base effect last year. MoM growth (2.2%; Sep: 1.1%) momentum expanded with the third straight month of positive expansion. The manufacturing index expanded (0.9% YoY; Sep: 0.4%) for the second consecutive month, mainly supported by domesticoriented industry and a smaller contraction in the export-oriented sector. Domestic-oriented sector expanded to 6.7% (Sep: 5.8%) while export-oriented industries contracted for the fifth straight month albeit at a reduced rate (-1.5%; Sep: -2.0%). 2023 manufacturing index growth is likely to settle around our forecast of 1.0% (2022: 8.2%), with further recovery expected next year at 3.2%. Year-to-date, IPI grew by 1.0% compared to 7.3% recorded in the same period last year, primarily due to weakened global trade impacted by geopolitical tensions, higher interest rates in advanced economies and China’s slower than expected post-pandemic recovery. Reflecting the latest IPI reading, we anticipate a continued manufacturing recovery and project a rebound in the valueadded manufacturing GDP growth of 1.5% in 4Q23 (3Q23: - 0.1%). This, along with a resilient services sector, is expected to propel overall 4Q23 GDP growth to 3.7% (3Q23: 3.3%). Consequently, we maintain our 2023 GDP growth forecast at 3.5% - 4.0% (2022: 8.7%) and foresee an expansion to 4.9% in 2024, supported by further domestic and global economic recovery. - (Dec 13, 2023) DESPITE the softer global environment, we project Malaysia’s GDP to normalise upwards to +4.8% YoY in 2024 (2023e: +3.8%) – sitting at the higher end of the government’s official target range (4-5%), but matching its point estimate. This will be supported by steady labour market improvement, E&E recovery, continued tourism revival and the rollout of approved investments and government’s strategic plans under the Madani Economy. We project USD-MYR to average 4.44 in 2024 and end next year at 4.30 (vs 2023: 4.54 and 4.60, respectively). Foreign shareholding on Bursa has fallen to a near record low (Nov-23: 19.6%). However, we believe this has bottomed and are hopeful for a reprieve in 2024 as a revival in foreign shareholding should bode well for the KLCI given their 73% correlation. We highlight three key themes that we expect to be on investor’s radar for 2024. These are (i) continued robust recovery in tourists to Malaysia (positive for Aviation, Brewers, Genting Group and selected mall based REITs), (ii) energy transition under NETR – with plays on RE EPCC contractors, Utilities and SMRT, and (iii) reinvigoration of developments in Johor – in this regard, we favour selected contractors and developers (both Sunway and SunCon fit the bill), as well as ITMAX. Coming off a flattish year (CY23: -0.3%), we project KLCI’s core earnings growth to regain traction at +8.2% in CY24. Overall, we take a modest upside bias view to the market with our 2024 KLCI target at 1,550, derived from 15.2x PE (-0.75SD 5Y) tagged to CY24 EPS. Our top picks are Public, Tenaga, YTLP, Gamuda, MAHB, Sunway, Armada, OSK, ITMAX, Aeon, SMRT and FocusP – broadly reflecting our key themes. - (Dec 13, 2023) OUR reading of Capital A Bhd’s (CapA) FY22A sustainability report was refreshing. There is room to improve especially on its net promoter score and female representation on its board but we note that CapA has set ambitious ESG related targets. CapA scores marginally above-average in our proprietary scoring methodology with an overall score of 59/100. While CapA’s carbon intensity has been rising due to increased fleet age (FY22A: 70.5g CO2/ASK, FY21A: 68.1g CO2/ASK), it is still lower than other leading low cost carriers. CapA has set an ambitious target of capping CO2 emissions at 85% of 2019 levels by 2026. One of the key methods to achieve this is to gradually replace its largely A320 fleet with A321neos which emits 20%-25% less CO2 per seat compared with an A320 while also producing less nitrogen oxide and noise. CapA’s net promoter score (NPS) dived to 36 in FY22A (FY21A: 60) due to flight delays and cancellations. It explained that these were due to difficulties in returning its aircraft to service and its NPS ought to improve going forward as more aircraft return to service. Yet, we like how CapA launched Redbeat Academy in Oct 2020 to retrain staff in technology during the Covid-19 pandemic and aims to bring back all staff who were dismissed and furloughed because of the pandemic. Our perusal of CapA’s annual reports reveal that it never had more than one female director on its board. In fact, there were years where it had no female director. That said, we acknowledge that CapA currently has one female director on its board. Positively, CapA targets ≥30% female representation on its board by 2026. We also note that CapA targets ≥10% women pilots and engineers by 2026 when the global average is only c.6%. Maintain BUY call and MYR1.01 SOP-TP. - (Dec 13, 2023) FOREIGN CURRENCY SELLING TT/OD BUYING TT BUYING OD 1 US Dollar 4.7625 4.6295 4.6195 1 Australian Dollar 3.1370 3.0110 2.9950 1 Brunei Dollar 3.5420 3.4390 3.4310 1 Canadian Dollar 3.4940 3.4000 3.3880 1 Euro 5.1360 4.9710 4.9510 1 New Zealand Dollar 2.9260 2.8190 2.8030 1 Papua N Guinea Kina N/A N/A N/A 1 Singapore Dollar 3.5420 3.4390 3.4310 1 Sterling Pound 5.9900 5.8060 5.7860 1 Swiss Franc 5.4260 5.3030 5.2880 100 UAE Dirham 130.9400 124.1500 123.9500 100 Bangladesh Taka 4.4020 4.1150 3.9150 100 Chinese Renminbi 66.6800 63.8600 N/A 100 Danish Krone 70.6100 64.9800 64.7800 100 Hongkong Dollar 61.5200 58.4500 58.2500 100 Indian Rupee 5.7900 5.4400 5.2400 100 Indonesian Rupiah 0.0315 0.0285 0.0235 100 Japanese Yen 3.2810 3.1780 3.1680 100 New Taiwan Dollar N/A N/A N/A 100 Norwegian Krone 44.5500 40.9800 40.7800 100 Pakistan Rupee 1.7100 1.6000 1.4000 100 Philippine Peso 8.6700 8.1700 7.9700 100 Qatar Riyal 131.8200 125.1400 124.9400 100 Saudi Riyal 128.1300 121.6300 121.4300 100 South Africa Rand 26.0000 23.4900 23.2900 100 Sri Lanka Rupee 1.5000 1.3800 1.1800 100 Thai Baht 13.9100 12.3400 11.9400 Exchange Rates Source: Malayan Banking Bhd/Bernama Ringgit ends lower against US dollar, Fed call awaited KUALA LUMPUR: The ringgit ended easier against the greenback yesterday while market participants awaited the Federal Open Market Committee meeting outcome last night, said an analyst. At 6pm, the ringgit fell to 4.7035/7085 against the US dollar from Tuesday’s close of 4.6830/6855. Bank Muamalat Malaysia Bhd chief economist Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid said the ringgit’s performance versus the US dollar was weaker in tandem with regional currencies. “The US consumer price index print, which met expectations based on year-on-year comparison, appears to suggest that the Federal Reserve (Fed) might maintain its hawkish stance when deliberating on the Federal Funds Rate tonight,” he told Bernama. It would definitely be dollar-positive should the Fed maintain its hawkish stance tonight (last night), he said. Meanwhile, Rakuten Trade Sdn Bhd head of research Kenny Yee said the local note should test the 4.40/50 range if the US Federal Reserve easing rate trend were to happen along with massive foreign direct investments into the country. “We actually have strengthened from the 4.80-level and we are now stuck due to the lack of fresh cataylsts and also lack of funds flow. But with the expectations of more FDIs coming in next year, the ringgit may break through the current 4.67 level by the first quarter of next year,” he said, adding that the regional currencies would follow the trend. At the close, the ringgit was weaker versus a basket of major currencies. It slipped against the British pound to 5.8916/8979 from 5.8842/8873 at Tuesday’s close, depreciated vis-a-vis the euro to 5.0737/0791 from 5.0548/0575, and weakened against the Japanese yen to 3.2249/2285 from 3.2212/2232 previously. Eco World International posts narrower pre-tax loss for Q4 KUALA LUMPUR: Eco World International Bhd (EWI) posted a lower loss before tax (LBT) of RM36.93 million for the fourth quarter ended Oct 31, 2023 (Q4’23) compared with LBT of RM94.64 million in Q4’22. This is mainly due to foreign exchange gains from the appreciation of the pound sterling (GPB) against the ringgit on repayment of advances by EcoWorld-Ballymore and conversion of GBP- denominated bank balances versus foreign exchange losses recorded in Q4’22; reversal of impairment on investment in Eco World-Ballymore of RM64.67 million following significant progress in the monetisation of inventories during the year (offset by impairment losses on amount owing by Eco World London of RM90.96 million); and lower finance costs in the previous quarter. EWI’s LBT for FY23 of RM79.52 million was also substantially lower than the LBT of RM229.36 million recorded in FY22 due to higher interest income earned following the repayment of shareholder’s advances from its UK joint ventures and similar reasons mentioned for its Q4’23 performance. EWI achieved RM1.181 billion sales plus reserves of RM114 million adding up to RM1.295 billion for the financial year ended Oct 31, 2023 (FY23). The board declared a final dividend of 6 sen per share for FY23, which translates to RM144 million; combined with the RM792 million dividend already distributed, the total dividends for FY23 amount to RM936 million. “EWI’s target for FY 2024 is to sell out all our remaining completed and near completed stocks with the aim of distributing the excess cash generated back to our shareholders, net of the amounts required for the group’s pared down operational requirements,” said Datuk Teow Leong Seng, EWI president & CEO. Capital A Bhd BUY. TARGET PRICE: RM1.01 Economics & Strategy 2024 KLCI TARGET: 1,550/GDP: 4.8% Malaysia Industrial Production Source: Kenanga Research Source: HLIB Research Source: Maybank IBG Research Dec 13, 2023: RM0.85

Beyond the screen From Silat maestro to lead star From Silat maestro to lead star - 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 THURSDAY | DEC 14, 2023 Editorial T: 03-7784 6688 F: 03-7785 2624/5 E: [email protected] Advertising T: 03-7784 8888 F: 03-7784 4424 SCAN ME E: [email protected] INSIDE p 23 War, sacrifice and heroism p 24 Julia Roberts’ unexpected journey p 25 Blackpink’s Rose’s Apec recognition p 26 Abang Adik breaking global records

LYFE LYFE THURSDAY | DEC 14, 2023 22 @thesundaily FOLLOW ON TWITTER Malaysian Paper Megat Sharizal’s cinematic odyssey WITH two decades of experience in the film industry, Megat Sharizal Yusoff plays the lead in his new film Walid, bringing the character to life and narrating the story in the most compelling way. The seasoned actor’s recent cinematic endeavour has not only added a new chapter to his journey but also has the potential to reshape the trajectory of his career. In an exclusive question and answer session with theSun, he shares insights into his transformative experience in portraying the main lead character, a teacher combating child trafficking in the new film. From his roots in martial arts to the challenges faced and the influences that shaped him, this interview delves into the multifaceted world of Megat, offering a glimpse into his past, present and future within the dynamic landscape of cinema. Join us as we unravel the layers of his cinematic persona and explore the depths of his artistic aspirations. Congratulations on your role in Walid. How has this film affected your two decades journey in the film industry, especially considering that it is your first time playing the lead character? Thank you. Walid is indeed a pivotal moment in my career. After two decades in the industry, it feels like a fresh start, especially stepping into the shoes of the lead character. It is a unique experience that I believe will have a lasting impact on my trajectory in the film world. oDeep dive into Walid and what lies ahead █ BY S. TAMARAI CHELVI Megat plays a significant character in Walid. Scene from the movie. Your character in Walid is a teacher fighting against child trafficking, a departure from the run-of-the-mill roles. What drew you to this character, and how did it feel playing a role with such depth and purpose? The character of Walid is truly special. He is not your typical protagonist — he is a teacher fighting a significant issue — child trafficking. The depth and purpose in his character were what drew me in. It is more than just action — it is a meaningful narrative that I believe can resonate with audiences on a deeper level. Let us talk about your background in silat. How did you get into martial arts, and how did it feel to finally showcase your silat skills on screen after two decades of learning? I started learning silat when I was 14, inspired by iconic figures like Jackie Chan and Jean-Claude Van Damme. Fast forward 20 years, and it is incredibly fulfilling to showcase my silat skills on screen in Walid. It is not just about impressing the audience — it is about i n s p i r i n g others to take up the practice and appreciate the art. Your journey with silat began in your teenage years. Can you share some highlights of your martial arts j o u r n e y , especially how you represented Kuala Lumpur in Pertandingan S i l a t Kebangsaan? Absolutely. My silat journey started when I was just 14. Inspired by martial arts legends and TV series, I delved into the practice. Representing Kuala Lumpur in Pertandingan Silat Kebangsaan for three years in 1998, 2000 and 2002 was a significant highlight. Although my path shifted towards acting, those experiences laid the foundation for showcasing my skills on stage and screen later in my career. Drawing comparisons between Walid and yourself, what similarities and differences did you find, and what aspects of Walid’s character inspired you? Walid and I share a love for children — a genuine connection. However, Walid is more skilled, with layers and depths that intrigued me. The inspiring part is his commitment to education. It is not just about fighting trafficking it is about — the transformative power of education. This aspect d e e p l y resonated with me and I believe it adds a unique dimension to the character. Portraying Walid must have come with its challenges. Can you share some of the physical and emotional challenges you faced to bring this character to life? Physical challenges were paramount. I initially embarked on a weight loss journey, but the director, Areel Abu Bakar, intervened, emphasising the importance of maintaining my size for the character. With added weight and an ageing knee from a past injury, the physical aspect was indeed challenging. Emotionally, delving into the depths of Walid’s character required extensive research. Being the lead for the first time, I felt a sense of responsibility to make the audience genuinely care for Walid. Your collaboration with director Areel seems to be a significant factor in your career. What is it about Areel’s approach that keeps you going back to work with him? Areel is an honest filmmaker driven by a love for storytelling. His films are not just for money or fame. They are genuine expression of narratives. I appreciate his unconventional casting choices, prioritising skills over fame. It is a bit risky, but that is what sets Areel apart. Our discussions are collaborative. He allows me to contribute to my character, fostering a creative environment that I cherish. Working with him is a continuous learning experience. Which actors have influenced you the most throughout your career? P Ramlee is my ultimate inspiration. His multi-talented persona and contributions to the industry are unparalleled. Internationally, Robert De Niro and Tom Hanks have left a significant impact. In the action genre, Jackie Chan’s prowess has always influenced my approach. Looking to the future, what genres are you excited to explore and do you have any dream projects in mind? I am a bit of a geek, so the science fiction genre is a dream for me. I love Star Wars and Star Trek. Being part of a sci-fi film, maybe even the Star Wars franchise, would be incredible. The superhero genre, exemplified by Keluang Man, is also intriguing. Ultimately, I dream of being part of a massive epic film like Mat Kilau, regardless of the era it is set in. Do you have any insights into your next project? Areel is set to direct a new action film at the end of the year. While details are scarce, I am excited for the challenge it presents. On the directorial front, my film Mencari Ramlee is in its post-production stage. It is a fictional take on P Ramlee’s downfall era in the early 70s, and I plan to release it in May 2024. It is an independent film with a limited budget, a project I have produced myself. Walid marks a transformative chapter in Megat’s illustrious career, blending martial arts expertise, meaningful storytelling and a commitment to pushing creative boundaries. As he looks to the future, the intersection of genres, dream projects and continued collaboration with director Areel pave the way for an exciting cinematic journey ahead. Megat showcasing his silat art in Walid.

LYFE LYFE THURSDAY | DEC 14, 2023 23 FRANCES Bean Cobain and Riley Hawk, who celebrated their wedding in October, have kept their nuptial moments private. However, Tony Hawk, the father of the groom, recently offered a glimpse of their celebration on Instagram to mark Riley’s 31st birthday. Expressing gratitude for his son’s journey into adulthood, Tony, the 55- year-old professional skateboarder, shared a heartfelt birthday wish for Riley. He emphasised his thankfulness for Riley’s finding love with Frances and praised the couple’s healthy and disciplined approach to life. Tony also mentioned how Riley serves as an inspiring example for his younger siblings. In a nod to the undisclosed wedding festivities, Tony noted that they had a blast at the wedding and expressed love for Riley. He humorously requested Frances to show the Instagram post to Riley, given his absence from the “Insta bubble”. Accompanying the post was a photo featuring Riley in a black longsleeve dress shirt and Frances in a white lace cap-sleeve dress adorned with intricate lace appliques on the bodice. Confirmation of the October wedding comes from a representative for Tony, with the obtained marriage certificate listing Oct 7 as the wedding date. The ceremony was officiated by REM frontman Michael Stipe, who also happens to be Frances’ godfather. Frances, 31, is the daughter of Courtney Love and the late Kurt Cobain, Nirvana’s frontman. Frances and Riley’s relationship was publicly revealed in January 2022, following Frances’ return to Instagram after a year-long social media break. She shared a series of images capturing moments of joy from the past year, including glimpses of her relationship with Riley. The photos featured the couple on a boat with Tony and his stepmother, Catherine Goodman, as well as Riley sporting a cheerful smile while holding a dog in a Christmasthemed costume. Frances, previously married to Isaiah Silva for 21 months after their June 2014 wedding, is now navigating a new chapter in her life with Riley and their private yet meaningful celebration sets the stage for their journey together. – BY YASMIN ZULRAEZ AI takes centre stage at Sundance 2023 I N the first teaser for Apple TV+’s Masters of the Air, Austin Butler, who plays Major Gale Buck Cleven, confronts the harsh realities of war. Amid the impending conflict, Buck, an American hero who served the Air Force during World War II, expresses the challenges of finding a girl worth writing to as he bids farewell to a romantic interest. The teaser unveils the camaraderie among soldiers, particularly Major John Egan played by Callum Turner, as they form a tight-knit bond while facing the adversities of war. It hints at a monumental mission, with a massive air armada assembled to confront Hitler’s army and secure air superiority. Tragedy strikes when missiles are deployed and planes are hit, showcasing the intense combat scenes. Amid the loss, Buck remains resilient, vowing to lead his men through their challenges. Scenes shift to portray the horrors of World War II, including German soldiers transporting Jewish masses to concentration camps. Sawyer Spielberg’s Roy Frank Claytor emphasises the mission to fight enemy’s atrocities. Buck and Egan find themselves in precarious situations, facing engine damage and the possibility to not survive. However, Buck remains determined, declaring they will stick to their mission as long as they can fly. The series, executive produced by Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks, delves into the historical drama of the men of the 100th Bomb Group or also known as the Bloody Hundredth. These soldiers endure extreme physical and emotional conditions while performing perilous bombing raids over Nazi Germany during World War II, as they contribute to the downfall of Hitler’s Third Reich. Filmed in various locations, from the picturesque hills of southeast England to the harsh environments of German prisoner of war camps, the series captures the psychological and emotional toll on these young men. The narrative explores the sacrifices made by those who were shot down, captured, wounded and fortunate enough to return home. The star-studded cast, featuring Butler, Turner, Anthony Boyle, Nate Mann, Raff Law, Barry Keoghan and Ncuti Gatwa, promises to bring depth to the gripping storyline and characters. Masters of the Air offers viewers a compelling and immersive journey into the untold stories of heroism during a pivotal period in history. It is set to premiere on Apple TV+ on Jan 26, with the first two episodes, followed by weekly releases. Hawk’s bond with his son Riley HOLLYWOOD luminaries, including Kristen Stewart, are set to attend the upcoming Sundance Festival, but the pervasive theme of artificial intelligence (AI) in several featured films might steal the spotlight. The festival’s lineup includes a “generative” music film, documentaries on A I - m e d i a t e d communication with the dead and an interactive “digital griot” teaching voguing (dancing in the manner of walking down the fashion runway). S u n d a n c e ’ s director of programming, Kim Yutani, notes the r e m a r k a b l e recurrence of AI in discussions about the films. This theme focus comes at a time when the entertainment industry grapples with AI’s evolving impact, a contentious issue fuelling recent Hollywood strikes. Sundance’s offerings include Eno, delving into musician Brian Eno’s career using a “generative engine’” that crafts diverse versions of the film nightly. The documentary Love Machina explores a couple’s quest for eternal love by transferring consciousness into a humanoid, while Eternal You examines startups aiming to create AI avatars for posthumous communication. Additionally, Being (the Digital Griot) invites audience interaction with an AI storyteller capable of debating, drawing on poetry and teaching dance. The festival boasts a recordbreaking 17,435 film submissions, with 90 selected for screening, including 85 world premieres. Stewart stars in two highly anticipated films, Love Lies Bleeding and Love Me, with intriguing plot details. Other highlights include Jesse Eisenberg’s directorial debut A Real Pain, Saoirse Ronan’s performance in The Outrun and Richard Linklater’s films Hit Man and God Save Texas. The AI-focused films aim to provoke thought and discussion, touching on topics ranging from the nature of consciousness to posthumous communication and human-machine interaction. Sundance, co-founded by Robert Redford, runs from Jan 18-28, offering a diverse and thoughtprovoking cinematic experience against the snowy backdrop of Park City’s Rocky Mountains. – BY ACE EMERSON Tony and Riley in 2019. – PIC BY DENISE TRUSCELLO/GETTY Steven Yeun takes on a leading role in Love Me. – AFP oUntold stories of WWII aviation Prepare for takeoff █ BY YASMIN ZULRAEZ Butler in Masters of the Air. – PIC BY APPLE TV+

LYFE LYFE THURSDAY | DEC 14, 2023 24 /theSunMedia FOLLOW ON YOUTUBE Malaysian Paper Roberts takes on an apocalyptic world I N the apocalyptic comedy-drama Leave the World Behind, renowned actress Julia Roberts takes centre stage, sharing insights into her character and the film’s intriguing narrative. Streaming on Netflix on Friday, the movie, produced by former President Barack Obama and featuring an ensemble cast with Mahershala Ali and Ethan Hawke, explores a world on the brink of collapse. Reflecting on the film’s themes, Roberts shares her perspective on the scenario of the world collapsing and contemplates the realworld fears that resonate with her. If faced with the last day before the world’s collapse, Roberts envisions spending it with her family, indulging in comfort foods like cheeseburgers and chocolate chip cookies, along with heartfelt hugs and kisses. She playfully adds a touch of humour, suggesting the inclusion of sleeping pills — a whimsical take on facing an imminent apocalypse. The film depicts various crises and when asked about the most terrifying scenario in real life, Roberts points to natural disasters. She emphasises the realism of such events and the indifference of “Mother Nature” to human concerns, creating a palpable fear that transcends the fictional narrative. One of Roberts’ initial lines in the movie is a bold declaration of disdain for people. Delving into her experience playing such a character, she reveals the enjoyment derived from exploring the dichotomy between her own amiable nature and the character’s misanthropic perspective. The actress even humorously mentions having socks inscribed with the phrase “I fracking hate people,” underscoring the playful exploration of this character trait. Regarding her portrayal of unsympathetic characters throughout her career, Roberts dismisses the idea of a conscious choice. Instead, she attributes it to the complexity of the characters and their roles within the broader context of the narrative. For her, it is not about aiming for likability or unlikability but about how the character fits into the overall storyline. As for the movie’s message, Roberts shares a profound insight into a sense of unity and shared humanity. She emphasises that, despite our diverse experiences, we are all part of the same human tapestry. And, in a lighthearted touch, she playfully adds a nod to the importance of cooking — a shared activity that binds people together. Leave the World Behind explores not only the impending collapse of the world but also the human connections and experiences that define us. Roberts, through her engaging portrayal, offers a glimpse into the film’s thematic depth and the thought-provoking messages it conveys. Roberts along with cast members take on apocalyptic scenario. – AFP █ BY ACE EMERSON Doctor Who’s eternal adventures FOR over six decades, the legendary British science-fiction series Doctor Who has captivated audiences since its premiere in 1963, drawing an impressive six million viewers to its inaugural episode. Narrating the escapades of “The Doctor”, a Time Lord hailing from the planet Gallifrey with two hearts, the show has achieved global distinction as the longest-running series in its genre, and anticipation surrounds an upcoming new season. Initially met with scepticism, particularly regarding the Tardis — a hybrid spacecraft or time machine resembling a British police call box — the series swiftly won over audiences. Financial limitations played a pivotal role in the series’ triumph, fostering ingenuity in the absence of CGI technology. The show’s journey to global prominence began when the US sci-fi community embraced it after PBS acquired the rights. Fandom burgeoned worldwide, with enthusiasts converging at sizable events and the 50th-anniversary special episode reached viewers in 94 countries. Following a hiatus in 1989, Doctor Who experienced a renaissance in 2005 under the guidance of Russell T Davies. The ongoing collaboration with Disney ensures its enduring international presence. After six decades, Ncuti Gatwa, as the 15th Doctor, becomes the first actor of colour to take on the iconic role. - BY ACE EMERSON Millie Gibson and Gatwa play Ruby Sunday and the Doctor. - PIC COURTESY OF BBC/BAD WOLF/DISNEY/PA Celebrating indie cinema Portman at the premiere of May December in Los Angeles. oExploring the dark comedy of Leave the World Behind MAY DECEMBER, American Fiction and Past Lives dominated the nominations for the Spirit Awards, a significant pre-Oscars event recognising lower-budget films. The three films each earned five nods, including a nomination for the coveted Best Feature category, setting the stage for potential recognition at the Oscars in March. Netflix’s May December features Natalie Portman as a Hollywood actor embarking on a film project about a woman whose affair with an underage boy made her a tabloid sensation. Based on a true story, the film earned nominations for Portman, supporting actor Charles Melton (Riverdale), director Todd Haynes and Best First Screenplay. In American Fiction, Jeffrey Wright portrays an author whose attempt to satirise virtue-signalling publishing executives with a stereotypical “Black” book unexpectedly turns into a bestseller. The satire garnered nominations for Wright, supporting actors Sterling K Brown and Erika Alexander and a Best Screenplay nod for former Succession writer Cord Jefferson. Past Lives, starring Greta Lee and Teo Yoo, competes in the genderneutral Best Lead Performance category. The critically acclaimed Korean-American drama depicts childhood friends who reunite after taking divergent paths in life. The film also secured nominations for Best Directing and Best Screenplay. Other films nominated for Best Feature include All of Us Strangers, Passages and We Grown Now. Acting nominees include major stars such as Jessica Chastain (Memory), Andrew Scott (All of Us Strangers) and Anne Hathaway (Eileen). The Film Independent Spirit Awards exclusively consider independent movies, excluding those with budgets exceeding US$30 million (RM140 million). The awards ceremony is scheduled for Feb 25, 2024 in a large tent near Santa Monica Beach in California. Oscar voting concludes two days later, with the 96th Academy Awards concluding the season on March 10, 2024. - BY ACE EMERSON

LYFE LYFE THURSDAY | DEC 14, 2023 25 Apec applauds Rose ROSEANNE PARK, widely known as Rose, a pivotal member of the globally acclaimed group Blackpink, has recently achieved a remarkable milestone that extends far beyond the realms of music and entertainment. As the global spotlight continues to illuminate the multifaceted talents of K-pop icons, Rose’s recognition at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) Summit, a prominent gathering of leaders from the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Forum, solidifies her position not just as a musical sensation but also as a cultural ambassador. The annual summit serves as a forum for leaders and delegates from member economies to engage in discussions about economic policies, trade and regional cooperation. In an unexpected yet admirable decision, the summit bestowed recognition upon Rose for her outstanding achievements in the global entertainment sector and her role in promoting cultural interchange. Rose’s acknowledgment at the summit underscores the expanding global significance of K-pop. Blackpink, one of the most renowned K-pop groups globally, has played a crucial role in propelling Korean pop culture to the forefront of the international stage. The group’s music, characterised by catchy beats, spectacular dancing and multilingual lyrics, has resonated with listeners worldwide. In addition to her musical Global icon Rose’s Apec summit recognition. oBridging nations through K-Pop’s cultural phenomenon █ BYACE EMERSON Serial killer film dead on Netflix Robert Downey Jr was also supposed to star in the film. He would have played a police officer obsessed with bringing Pattinson’s character to justice. McKay left the project to pursue another project that is closer to his heart, which is reportedly a film about climate change. Known for his ability to spin the nature of dark topics into absurdist humour, McKay has injected comedy into previous films, such as the 2008 financial crash in The Big Short and the Iraq war in Vice. Most recently, McKay wrote and directed the star-studded, cameofilled Don’t Look Up, a film where scientists found themselves fighting against human apathy and the media to warn everyone about a comet hurtling towards earth. The Netflix-produced film satirised real-world events from 2020, using the comet as a metaphor for climate change. Hollywood heavy hitters Leonardo DiCaprio and Jennifer Lawrence were front and centre as Don’t Look Up’s lead characters. McKay also roped in Jonah Hill, Timothee Chalamet, Ron Perlman, Ariana Grande, Cate Blanchett and Meryl Streep, among many others. McKay directing Lawrence on the set of his last film. – NIKO TAVERNISE/NETFLIX █ BY MARK MATHEN VICTOR Bachchan run-in with paparazzis VETERAN Bollywood actress Jaya Bachchan lashed out at photographers at the premiere of her grandson Agastya Nanda’s debut film, The Archies. While other stars gladly posed for photographs during premieres, Jaya got angry with the photographers for calling out her name to look into their cameras. When photographers called her for a photo session, the actress instructed them, “Don’t shout.” Bachchan did that again while gesturing her hand to instruct them not to shout at her when posing with another actress, Tina Ambani. This is not the first time Bachchan has been captured not getting along with photographers. Once, she told photographers who were taking her pictures, “I hope you will double and fall.” She received negative comments following her latest episode with the photographers. On social media, some netizens wrote that she should be boycotted. “The papas should refuse to shoot when she is in the frame and show her place,” one wrote. Another wrote, “This lady always behaves like a school teacher. Always scold paparazzis.” Bachchan in her younger days. – INSTAGRAM █ BY S. TAMARAI CHELVI OFFICIALLY dead in the water, Adam McKay’s Average Height, Average Build will not be moving forward at Netflix due to the director’s departure, but the streaming platform has no plans on making the film without McKay’s involvement. The film was to have starred Robert Pattinson as a serial killer who hired a lobbyist, supposed to be played by Amy Adams, to work on his behalf to change certain laws so that he could continue killing with impunity. accomplishments, Rose has gained recognition for her distinct style and fashion sense, further establishing herself as a notable figure in the global fashion industry. Her appearances at major fashion events and collaborations with renowned brands have positioned her as a trendsetter, influencing fashion trends and captivating fashion enthusiasts globally. Rose’s recognition at the summit exemplifies the potential of cultural diplomacy. Influencers like Rose play a critical role in bridging barriers and fostering connections in an era where cultural exchange is pivotal for understanding and collaboration among nations. Her music, style and overall artistic expression transcend linguistic and cultural borders, connecting with a diverse audience. This acknowledgment at a highprofile diplomatic event also signifies the evolving nature of celebrity impact in the present day. Celebrities are no longer confined to their roles in the entertainment industry. They increasingly wield significant influence in shaping public opinion, trends and even participating in diplomatic endeavors. Rose’s honour at the summit epitomises the convergence of entertainment, culture and global diplomacy. Furthermore, Rose’s journey from a YG Entertainment trainee to global success serves as an inspiring example for aspiring musicians. Her perseverance, passion and undeniable skill have propelled her to the forefront of the global entertainment industry. Blackpink and its members, especially Rose, have made substantial contributions to the Korean Wave or Hallyu. K-pop, Kdramas and Korean culture in general have gained popularity worldwide, fostering a sense of global community and respect for various forms of artistic expression. Rose’s recognition at the recent summit marks a significant turning point for both the artist and the broader K-pop industry. Beyond music and entertainment, this acknowledgement underscores the cultural importance of K-pop on the global stage and the potential for artists to contribute to diplomatic efforts through their influence. Rose’s journey represents the changing landscape of celebrity impact and the effectiveness of cultural diplomacy in establishing ties and understanding between nations. As she continues to break barriers and inspire audiences worldwide, Rose symbolises the transformative power that artists can have on the international stage.

LYFE LYFE THURSDAY | DEC 14, 2023 26 /thesuntelegram FOLLOW ON TELEGRAM Malaysian Paper LOCAL film Abang Adik, although not yet released in its home country, is taking the world by storm by earning international acclaim with multiple accolades, and is a must-watch film before the curtains close in 2023. Under the direction of Taiping-born Jin Ong, Abang Adik has already achieved significant success, having been screened in Taiwan. It marks the highest-grossing film ever shown in Taiwan, breaking the box office records of Singaporean and Malaysian films. Jin Ong sees the festival recognition as a positive sign that Southeast Asian works are standing alongside esteemed international productions. “The recognition and awards achieved across continents worldwide through the narrative of Abang Adik, which delves into themes of life, family, sacrifice and love conveyed through the creative synergy of artists from two countries sharing a common vision, serves as undeniable evidence of the competitiveness of Southeast Asian creators. “I also sincerely hope that Abang Adik receives a positive response upon its screening in Malaysian cinemas starting today,“ said Ong. In his directorial debut, Ong, previously recognised as a successful producer, skillfully navigates audiences through the challenges of a life marked by poverty and the struggles of two orphaned siblings. The film revolves around Abang, a mute and deaf person with disabilities, starring Wu Kang Ren and his brother Adi, played by Jack Tan, who grapples with anger. A tragic event tests the bond between these siblings and the movie intricately explores the conflicts and dilemmas faced by Abang and Adi. Abang Adik has not only captured the hearts of fans but has also received acclaim at the main prizes of the 25th Far East Film Festival (FEFF) in Udine, Italy. It secured prestigious awards, including the Golden Mulberry Audience Awards, the Black Dragon Critics’ Prize and the White Mulberry Awards for Best Debut Feature. Beyond FEFF, the film, featuring the exceptional pairing of Malaysian Tan and Taiwanese Wu, has earned over 10 recognitions worldwide. These accolades include awards at prestigious festivals like the 22nd edition of the New York Asian Film Festival 2023 and the First Official Selection 2023 in China. Wu’s remarkable acting prowess has garnered him four victories, including the Taipei 60th Golden Horse Award for Best Leading Actor, the 13th First International Film Festival 2023 for Best Performance and the Best Lead Performance at the QCinema International Film Festival - Asian Next Wave in the Philippines. Tan, who portrays the character Adi in Abang Adik, finds the film particularly special due to its storyline and production presented in three languages - Mandarin, Cantonese and Malay. The uniqueness lies in the collaboration of the workforce and actors from Malaysia and Taiwan. According to Tan, the 114-minute film holds a unique sentimental value as it involves individuals with two different physical conditions, stirring the instincts of anyone who watches. Abang Adik premieres today in theatres nationwide. Cinematic masterpiece Local film Abang Adik has already earned significant international acclaim with numerous accolades before its release. – PIC COURTESY OF JIN ONG AS we get into the spirit of Christmas, which is less than two weeks away, and eagerly anticipate the arrival of the New Year, it is an opportune time to initiate positive changes in our lives. Instead of waiting for the calendar to turn, let us embark on a journey of transformation now, setting the stage for a fresh beginning. Toxic positivity In the spirit of embracing the festive season, let go of toxic positivity - the notion that one should always maintain a positive mindset regardless of the circumstances. This well-intentioned but flawed philosophy often dismisses genuine struggles and emotions, creating an unrealistic expectation for individuals to mask their true feelings. Moving forward, there is a growing emphasis on authenticity and acknowledging the spectrum of human emotions. Single-use plastics As we prepare to celebrate Christmas, let us mark a significant stride in the global effort to reduce single-use plastics. With increasing awareness of the detrimental impact of these materials on our oceans and ecosystems, individuals, businesses and governments are taking concrete steps to eliminate or find alternatives to disposable plastics. Sustainable living is no longer a choice but a responsibility. Outdated gender norms As we immerse ourselves in the Christmas spirit, leave behind rigid expectations about how people should behave based on their gender. The societal landscape is evolving, and with it, the archaic gender norms that have long constrained individuals. Overworking culture Celebrate the spirit of Christmas by saying goodbye to the culture of overworking that has plagued many industries. The focus is now more on striking a better work-life balance, prioritising mental health and realising the importance of leisure time in promoting creativity and productivity. Misinformation As we usher in the New Year, let us no longer tolerate falsehoods and the spread of baseless claims. There is a renewed commitment to critical thinking, fact-checking and media literacy promotion to ensure a more informed and discerning public. Stagnant diversity initiatives In the spirit of renewal, bid farewell to the stagnation of diversity initiatives that lack meaningful action. Real representation and equal opportunities for all are becoming more and more in demand in 2023. Organisations are re-evaluating their policies and practices to promote diversity, equity and inclusion, recognising the power that comes from embracing a multitude of perspectives. Silence on mental health Eliminating the stigma associated with mental health is a top priority as we enter the festive season and look towards the New Year. Move past the stigma and reluctance to discuss mental health issues openly. A more compassionate and understanding approach is emerging, encouraging people to seek help without fear of judgement. Mental well-being is rightfully recognised as a crucial aspect of overall health. As we immerse ourselves in the spirit of Christmas and eagerly anticipate the New Year, let us proactively bid farewell to outdated beliefs and practices. By choosing to leave behind toxic positivity, single-use plastics, outdated gender norms and other societal constraints, we pave the way for a future marked by progress, empathy and sustainability. The decisions we make today shape the world we inhabit tomorrow, so let this “Merry” festive season be the start of a more enlightened, compassionate and harmonious society. Leaving behind the past allows personal growth and a fresh start in the new year. – PICS BY PEXELS It is crucial to let go of any lingering regrets or resentments from the past. It involves learning from experiences and channeling that newfound wisdom into building a brighter future. █ BY THASHINE SELVAKUMARAN █ BY HAZIQUE ZAIRILL Movies’ official poster. Heading into a Heading into a new beginning new beginning oEmbracing Christmas spirit and welcoming a renewed year

NOTICE TAKE NOTICE that MahWengKwai & Associates would like to seek information regarding the biological parents of a female child who was born around 1.3.2009 near Cheras, Kuala Lumpur. Any party with relevant information is requested to contact Ms Kirthika Padmanapan at 03- 78872702. 322 Notices 0701AUC2023000025 LAMPIRAN B SIASATAN 2 KANUN TANAH NEGARA Saman Kepada Penggadai Supaya Hadir Dalam Siasatan Di Bawah Seksyen 261 Kepada, Avli a/l M. Muthusamy @ Perumal dan Kavinderan a/l Avli yang beralamat di No. 1, Lorong Seri Juru 17, Taman Seri Juru, 14000 Simpang Ampat, Pulau Pinang dan/atau No. 9, Pintasan Terubuk 2, Bandar Seberang Jaya, 13700 Perai, Pulau Pinang penggadai dalam gadaian yang tersebut dalam jadual di bawah ini bagi tanah yang tersebut di dalamnya. Bahawasanya saya telah menerima daripada Pemegang Gadai dalam gadaian yang tersebut suatu permohonan supaya perintah jual dikeluarkan di bawah Sub-Seksyen 260 (2) Kanun Tanah Negara. Dan bahawasanya saya bercadang hendak mengadakan suatu siasatan berkenaan dengan permohonan tersebut di Pejabat Daerah Dan Tanah, Seberang Perai Tengah, No. 61, 63, 65, 67, 71 dan 73, Jalan Perda Utara, Bandar Perda, 14000 Bukit Mertajam, Pulau Pinang pada 15 Februari 2024 (Khamis) pada pukul 10.00 pagi. Maka oleh yang demikian, menurut Perenggan 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 dibuat. Bertarikh pada 27 haribulan Oktober 2023 s.k Tetuan Murad & Foo Peguambela & Peguamcara Suites 10.01 Tingkat 10, MWE Plaza, No. 8, Lebuh Farquhar,10200 Pulau Pinang, (Ruj. Tuan : TLN/HLBB/F105/2019/ina) ..............t.t............... Pentadbir Tanah Seberang Perai Tengah JADUAL TANAH * DAN KEPENTINGAN Bandar / Pekan / Mukim (1) No. Lot/ Petak/ P.T. (2) Jenis dan No. Hakmilik (3) Bahagian Tanah (jika ada) (4) No. Berdaftar * Pajakan/ Pajakan Kecil (jika ada) (5) No. Berdaftar Gadaian (jika ada) (6) Mukim 13 Seberang Perai Tengah Lot 20512 HSM 2752 KESEMUA Tiada Persn. No 0701SC2017004718 Jilid No. - Folio No. - IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF EAGE SDN. BHD. (201001020189 (903948-W)) (IN MEMBERS’ VOLUNTARY WINDING UP) NOTICE is hereby given pursuant to Section 439 of the Companies Act, 2016, that the special resolution set out below was duly passed by the members of the Company at a General Meeting held on 13 DECEMBER 2023. “That the Company be wound up voluntarily pursuant to Section 439(1) (b) of the Companies Act, 2016 and that Mr. WONG LEONG PENG (NRIC No.: 711107-10-6405) of 22, Jalan Maju 1/1, Taman Lembah Maju, 56100 Kuala Lumpur, W.P. Kuala Lumpur be and is hereby appointed as Liquidator for the purposes of such winding up with all powers given by Section 456 of the Companies Act, 2016.” SU CHUA TECK Director Kuala Lumpur Date: 14 DECEMBER 2023 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF EAGE SDN. BHD. (201001020189 (903948-W)) (IN MEMBERS’ VOLUNTARY WINDING UP) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the creditors of the above-named Company which is being voluntarily wound up are required to, on or before 05 JANUARY 2024 to send in their names and addresses with full particulars of their debts or claims and the names and addresses of their solicitors (if any) to the undersigned, the Liquidator of the Company, and, if so required by notice in writing from the Liquidator, either personally or by their solicitors, to come in 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 benefits of any distribution made before such debts or claims are proved. WONG LEONG PENG Liquidator No. 29-2, Jalan 46A/26, Taman Sri Rampai, 53300 Kuala Lumpur, W.P. Kuala Lumpur. Date: 14 DECEMBER 2023 322 Notices PERISYTIHARAN JUALAN DALAM MAHKAMAH TINGGI MALAYA DI PULAU PINANG PERMOHONAN UNTUK PERLAKSANAAN NO:PA-38-821-10/2023 Dalam perkara mengenai Seksyen 256 dan 257 Kanun Tanah Negara, 1965 Dan Dalam perkara mengenai Gadaian Perserahan No: 0799SC2015038654 (bertarikh 05/11/2015) ke atas semua bahagian tanah yang dipegang di bawah GRN 34214, Lot 835 Seksyen 11W, Mukim Bandar George Town, Daerah Timor Laut, Pulau Pinang Dan Dalam perkara mengenai Aturan 83 Kaedah- Kaedah Mahkamah, 2012 ANTARA Public Bank Berhad (No. Syarikat : 6463-H) .. PLAINTIF DAN Oceanwealth Properties Sdn Bhd (No. Syarikat : 752423-D) ...DEFENDAN Menurut Perintah Mahkamah Tinggi Malaya di PULAU PINANG mengenai Perintah Jualan dan Perintah bertarikh 30 Januari 2019 dan 07 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 Selasa, 23 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 Pejabat Tanah dan memeriksa semua tanggungan, bebanan serta mengenal pasti dengan tepat hartanah tersebut sebelum juaIan lelongan dijaIankan. Sila layari https://eIeIong.kehakiman.gov.my/bidderweb BUTIR-BUTIR HAKMILIK: No. Hakmilik : GRN 34214 No. Lot : Lot 835 Seksyen 11W Mukim/Daerah/Negeri : Bandar George Town / Timor Laut / Pulau Pinang Pegangan : Hakmilik Kekal No. Petak/No. Tingkat/No. : Bangunan Keluasan Tanah : 0.0275700000 ekar : 0.0111570000 hektar Pemilik Berdaftar : Oceanwealth Properties Sdn Bhd Syarat Nyata : (FIRST GRADE) The land comprised in this title: (a) shall not be affected by any provision of the National Land Code limiting the compensation payable on the exercise by the State Authority of a right of access or use conferred by Chapter 3 of Part Three of the Code or on the creation of a Land Administrator’s right of way; and Sekatan Kepentingan : Tiada Bebanan / Lain-Lain : Kawasan Rizab : Kaveat : LOKASI DAN PERIHAL HARTANAH : Hartanah tersebut adalah An intermediate terrace commercial plot yang beralamat pos di Lot No. 835, Section 11W, Town of George Town, North East District, 10300, George Town, Pulau Pinang. HARGA RIZAB : Hartanah tersebut akan dijual atas “sepertimana sedia ada” tertakluk kepada satu harga rizab sebanyak RM 810,000.00 (RINGGIT MALAYSIA: LAPAN RATUS SEPULUH 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 PUBLIC BANK BERHAD 1 HARI BEKERJA sebelum tarikh lelong awam. Baki harga belian hendaklah dibayar oleh pembida yang berjaya kepada PUBLIC BANK BERHAD dalam tempoh seratus dua puluh (120) hari dari tarikh jualan. Untuk butir-butir selanjutnya, sila berhubung dengan:- Firma Guaman : WONG-CHOOI & MOHD NOR Alamat : NO. 27, 1ST FLOOR JALAN MAJU JAYA PUSAT PERNIAGAAN MAJU JAYA, 14000 BUKIT MERTAJAM, PULAU PINANG No. Telefon : 04-5398855 No. Fax : 04-5395855 No. Rujukan : WCMN(BM)/PBB-HL/2023-064/OPSB(RS/j) 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 [email protected] 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 DRAGON JEWELS SDN. BHD. 199601035972 (408325-X) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding Up) Notice is hereby given pursuant to Section 439(2) of the Companies Act, 2016 that the Special Resolutions set below were duly passed by the members of the Company on 08-12-2023. “That the Company be wound up voluntarily pursuant to Section 439(1)(b) of the Companies Act, 2016 and that Mr Teo Mong Nguan NRIC No. 490423-01-5197 from Advance Management Services Sdn. Bhd. 197901008899 (53183-M), be and is hereby appointed as Liquidator of the Company for the purpose of such windingup at a fee to be approved by the Director. That the said Liquidator be empowered to distribute part or the whole of the Company’s assets either in cash, specie or in kind in pursuant to Section 456 of the Companies Act, 2016. That the said Liquidator be indemnified by the Company against all costs, charges, losses, expenses and liabilities incurred or sustained by him in the execution and discharge of his duties in relation thereto.” Dated 14-12-2023. Lim See Sing Director In the Matter of the Companies Act, 2016 And In the Matter of DRAGON JEWELS SDN. BHD. 199601035972 (408325-X) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding Up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the creditors of DRAGON JEWELS SDN. BHD. 199601035972 (408325-X) which is being voluntarily wound up are required on or before 14-01-2024 to send their names and addresses with particulars of their debts and claims, and of any security held by them, and the names and addresses of their solicitors (if any) to:- Teo Mong Nguan (Liquidator) Suite 19-02D, 19th Floor, Menara Zurich, No. 15, Jalan Dato’ Abdullah Tahir, 80300 Johor Bahru, Johor and if so required by notice in writing from the aforesaid Liquidator, or personally or by their solicitors required to write in and prove their said debts and claims at such time and place shall be specified in such notice, or in default thereof, they will be excluded from the benefit of any distribution made before such debts and claims are proved. Dated : 14-12-2023 Teo Mong Nguan (Liquidator) PERISYTIHARAN JUALAN DALAM MAHKAMAH TINGGI MALAYA DI ALOR SETAR PERMOHONAN UNTUK PERLAKSANAAN NO:KA-38-261-10/2023 Dalam perkara mengenai Seksyen 256 dan 257 Kanun Tanah Negara, 1965 Dan Dalam perkara mengenai Gadaian Perserahan No: 5175/2011 (bertarikh 17/07/2011) ke atas semua bahagian tanah yang dipegang di bawah GM 3003, Lot 6297, Mukim Pengkalan Kundor, Daerah Kota Setar, Kedah Dan Dalam perkara mengenai Aturan 83 Kaedah- Kaedah Mahkamah, 2012 ANTARA Public Islamic Bank Berhad (No. Syarikat : 14328-V) .. PLAINTIF DAN Mohd Hanif Bin Harun (No. Kad Pengenalan : 750625025383) ...DEFENDAN Menurut Perintah Mahkamah Tinggi Malaya di ALOR SETAR mengenai Perintah Jualan dan Perintah bertarikh 24 Ogos 2022 dan 15 November 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, 10 Januari 2024, Pada Jam 9:00 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 Pejabat Tanah dan memeriksa semua tanggungan, bebanan serta mengenal pasti dengan tepat hartanah tersebut sebelum juaIan lelongan dijaIankan. Sila layari https://eIeIong.kehakiman.gov.my/bidderweb BUTIR-BUTIR HAKMILIK: No. Hakmilik : GM 3003 No. Lot : Lot 6297 Mukim/Daerah/Negeri : Pengkalan Kundor / Kota Setar / Kedah Pegangan : Hakmilik Kekal No. Petak/No. Tingkat/No. : Bangunan Keluasan Tanah : 3.0400000000 ekar : 1.2300000000 hektar Pemilik Berdaftar : Mohd Hanif Bin Harun Syarat Nyata : Bendang Sekatan Kepentingan : - Bebanan / Lain-Lain : Charged to Public Islamic Bank Berhad vide Pers. No. 5175/2011, dated 28-07-2011 Kawasan Rizab : Pengisytiharan Rezab Melayu Kaveat : Nombor Perserahan : 2518/2021 Kaveat Persendirian atas Tanah oleh MOHD MUHIBULLAH BIN ABD RAHMAN No. Kad Pengenalan: 810709-02-5745 KAMPUNG ULU BAKAI MALAU KULIM 09020 KEDAH didaftarkan pada 8 Disember 2021 jam 09:09:41 pagi LOKASI DAN PERIHAL HARTANAH : Hartanah tersebut adalah “A parcel of Agricultural Land with development potential situated along the Northern side of the feeder road leading to the Alor Setar South interchange of the North-South expressway held under Title No. GM 3003, Lot No. 6297, Mukim of Pengkalan Kundor, District of Kota Setar, State of Kedah yang beralamat pos di Lot 6297, Tempat: Keriang Pulau, 05400, Mukim Pengkalan Kundor, Kedah. HARGA RIZAB : Hartanah tersebut akan dijual atas “sepertimana sedia ada” tertakluk kepada satu harga rizab sebanyak RM 850,500.00 (RINGGIT MALAYSIA: LAPAN RATUS LIMA PULUH RIBU LIMA RATUS SAHAJA) dan kepada syarat-syarat jualan yang dilampirkan. Pembida yang berminat hendaklah mendepositkan 10% daripada harga rizab dalam bentuk Bank Draf di atas nama PUBLIC ISLAMIC BANK BERHAD 1 HARI BEKERJA sebelum tarikh lelong awam. Baki harga belian hendaklah dibayar oleh pembida yang berjaya kepada PUBLIC ISLAMIC BANK BERHAD dalam tempoh seratus dua puluh (120) hari dari tarikh jualan. Untuk butir-butir selanjutnya, sila berhubung dengan:- Firma Guaman : WONG-CHOOI & MOHD NOR Alamat : NO. 27, 1ST FLOOR JALAN MAJU JAYA PUSAT PERNIAGAAN MAJU JAYA, 14000 BUKIT MERTAJAM, PULAU PINANG No. Telefon : 04-5398855 No. Fax : 04-5395855 No. Rujukan : WCMN(BM)/PIBB-HL/2022-366/MHH(RS/j) 302 Jobs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ffl (;3(5,(1&(5(48,5(0(176ffl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YLDHPDLOWRKU#WKHVXQGDLO\FRP <RXFDQFDOOXVDWflflfl WKH6XQLVSXEOLVKHGE\6XQ0HGLD&RUSRUDWLRQ6GQ%KG /RW/HYHO-DODQ3HWDOLQJ-D\D6HODQJRU 322 Notices 322 Notices SCAN ME THURSDAY DEC 14, 2023

SPORTS SPORTS THURSDAY | DEC 14, 2023 28 PERISYTIHARAN JUALAN DALAM MAHKAMAH TINGGI MALAYA DI PULAU PINANG PERMOHONAN UNTUK PERLAKSANAAN NO: PA-38-738-10/2023 Dalam perkara mengenai Seksyen 256 dan 257 Kanun Tanah Negara, 1965 Dan Dalam perkara mengenai Gadaian Perserahan No: 0799SC2014038960 (bertarikh : 30/10/2014) ke atas semua bahagian tanah yang dipegang di bawah Geran No. 121505, Lot 4801, Mukim 16, Daerah Seberang Perai Utara, Pulau Pinang Dan Dalam perkara mengenai Aturan 83 Kaedah- Kaedah Mahkamah, 2012 ANTARA PUBLIC ISLAMIC BANK BERHAD (No. Syarikat : 14328-V) ...PLAINTIF DAN MAZLAN BIN MANSOR (No. Kad Pengenalan : 660812095003) ...DEFENDAN Menurut Perintah Mahkamah Tinggi Malaya di PULAU PINANG mengenai Perintah Jualan dan Perintah bertarikh 8 Jun 2023 dan 14 November 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, 10 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 aqar membuat carian Hakmilik secara rasmi di Pejabat Tanah dan memeriksa semua tanqqunqan, bebanan serta mengenal pasti dengan tepat hartanah tersebut sebelum jualan lelonqan dijalankan. Sila layari https://elelong.kehakiman.gov.my/bidderweb BUTIR-BUTIR HAKMILIK: No. Hakmilik : Geran No. 121505 No. lot : Lot 4801 Mukim / Daerah / Negeri : 16 / Seberang Perai Utara / Pulau Pinang Pegangan : Hakmilik Kekal No. Petak/No. Tingkat/ No. Bangunan : Keluasan Tanah : 1302.0000000000 kaki persegi 121.0000000000 meter persegi Pemilik Berdaftar : MAZLAN BIN MANSOR Syarat Nyata : Tanah yang diberimilik ini hendaklah digunakan untuk tujuan kediaman sahaja. Sekatan Kepentingan : Tanah yang diberimilik ini tidak boleh dipindahmilik, dicagar, pajak, pajakan kacil atau apa-apa urusniagapun tanpa kebenaran bertulis daripada Pihak Berkuasa Negeri Bebanan / Lain-Lain : Kawasan Rizab : Kaveat : LOKASI DAN PERIHAL HARTANAH : Hartanah tersebut adalah Rumah Teres Dua Tingkat yang beralamat pos di No. 72, Lorong Sungai Dua Utama 26, Taman Sungai Dua Utama, 13800, Butterworth, Pulau Pinang HARGA RIZAB : Hartanah tersebut akan dijual atas “sepertimana sedia ada” tertakluk kepada satu harga rizab sebanyak RM 450,000.00 (RINGGIT MALAYSIA: EMPAT RATUS LIMA PULUH 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 PUBLIC ISLAMIC BANK BERHAD 1 HARI BEKERJA sebelum tarikh lelong awam. Baki harga belian hendaklah dibayar oleh pembida yang berjaya kepada PUBLIC ISLAMIC BANK BERHAD dalam tempoh seratus dua puluh (120) hari dari tarikh jualan. Untuk butir-butir selanjutnya, sila berhubung dengan:- Firma Guaman : TOH THEAM HOCK & CO. Alamat : NO. 155, 1ST FLOOR MEDAN KIKIK SATU TAMAN INDERAWASIH, 13600, PG, MY No. Telefon : 04-3981917 No. Fax : 04-3981921 No. Rujukan : TTH/PBB/IF-95/2022/OSY/DURA PERISYTIHARAN JUALAN DALAM MAHKAMAH TINGGI MALAYA DI PULAU PINANG PERMOHONAN UNTUK PERLAKSANAAN NO: PA-38-700-09/2023 Dalam perkara mengenai Seksyen 256 dan 257 Kanun Tanah Negara, 1965 Dan Dalam perkara mengenai Gadaian Perserahan No: 0705SC2017000035 (bertarikh : 09/11/2016) ke atas semua bahagian tanah yang dipegang di bawah Hakmilik Strata No. Hakmilik Geran Mukim 775/M1/4/88, Lot 1051, Mukim 11, Daerah Barat daya, Pulau Pinang Dan Dalam perkara mengenai Aturan 83 Kaedah- Kaedah Mahkamah, 2012 ANTARA PUBLIC ISLAMIC BANK BERHAD (No. Syarikat : 14328-V) ...PLAINTIF DAN MUHAMMAD SYAFIQ BIN ANUAR (No. Kad Pengenalan : 891201075503) ...DEFENDAN Menurut Perintah Mahkamah Tinggi Malaya di PULAU PINANG mengenai Perintah Jualan dan Perintah bertarikh 11 Ogos 2023 dan 7 November 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, 8 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 aqar membuat carian Hakmilik secara rasmi di Pejabat Tanah dan memeriksa semua tanqqunqan, bebanan serta mengenal pasti dengan tepat hartanah tersebut sebelum jualan lelonqan dijalankan. Sila layari https://elelong.kehakiman.gov.my/bidderweb BUTIR-BUTIR HAKMILIK: No. Hakmilik : Hakmilik Strata No. Hakmilik Geran Mukim 775/ M1/4/88 No. lot : Lot 1051 Mukim / Daerah / Negeri : 11 / Barat Daya / Pulau Pinang Pegangan : Hakmilik Kekal No. Petak/No. Tingkat/ No. Bangunan : 88 / 4 / M1 Keluasan Tanah : 463.0000000000 kaki persegi 43.0000000000 meter persegi Pemilik Berdaftar : MUHAMMAD SYAFIQ BIN ANUAR 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 Rumah Pangsa yang beralamat pos di 6-3-16, Lintang Sungai Batu, Taman Teluk Kumbar, 11920, Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang. HARGA RIZAB : Hartanah tersebut akan dijual atas “sepertimana sedia ada” tertakluk kepada satu harga rizab sebanyak RM 100,000.00 (RINGGIT MALAYSIA: SATU 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 PUBLIC ISLAMIC BANK BERHAD 1 HARI BEKERJA sebelum tarikh lelong awam. Baki harga belian hendaklah dibayar oleh pembida yang berjaya kepada PUBLIC ISLAMIC BANK BERHAD dalam tempoh seratus dua puluh (120) hari dari tarikh jualan. Untuk butir-butir selanjutnya, sila berhubung dengan:- Firma Guaman : TOH THEAM HOCK & CO. Alamat : NO. 155, 1ST FLOOR MEDAN KIKIK SATU TAMAN INDERAWASIH, 13600, PG, MY No. Telefon : 04-3981917 No. Fax : 04-3981921 No. Rujukan : TTH/PBB/IF-15/2022/OSY/NA DALAM MAHKAMAH MAJISTRET DI KUALA LUMPUR DALAM WILAYAH PERSEKUTUAN KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA GUAMAN SIVIL NO: WA-A72M-18677-10/2023 ANTARA YAYASAN IHSAN RAKYAT (No Syarikat.: 201201017719 [1003231-A]) …PLAINTIF DAN SITI FATIMAH BINTI AHMAD DRAWEE (No. K/P: 871109-03-5658) ...DEFENDAN NOTIS (IKLAN PENYAMPAIAN GANTI) Kepada: - 1) SITI FATIMAH BINTI AHMAD DRAWEE SILA AMBIL PERHATIAN bahawa suatu tindakan telah dimulakan terhadap kamu di Mahkamah Sesyen Kuala Lumpur , dalam Guaman No. WAA72M-18677-10/2023 oleh Yayasan Ihsan Rakyat (“Plaintif”) yang beralamat di di Tingkat 20, Menara Teo Chew, No. 1, Jalan Lumut, 50400 Kuala Lumpur di mana Plaintif menuntut terhadap kamu antara lain untuk membayar semula pinjaman, faedah dan kos. DAN TELAH DIPERINTAHKAN bahawa Writ Saman dan Pernyataan Tuntutan bertarikh 23.10.2023 dilaksanakan secara penyampaian ganti terhadap kamu dengan menghantar melalui serahan melalui menampalkan pada Papan Notis Mahkamah Majistret Kuala Lumpur, menampalkan di alamat terakhir yang diketahui Plaintif dan mengiklankan sekali di suatu penerbitan akhbar ‘The Sun’ dan penyampaian Writ Saman dan Pernyataan Tuntutan sedemikian akan disifatkan sebagai penyerahan lengkap dan sempurna terhadap kamu dalam masa tujuh hari (7) hari selepas tarikh penampalan atau pengiklanan yang terakhir tersebut. Jika kamu berhasrat untuk membela tindakan tersebut, kamu mestilah memasukkan kehadiran sama ada secara sendiri atau melalui peguamcara kamu. Jika kamu ingkar hadir sedemikian, penghakiman boleh diberikan terhadap kamu. Bertarikh pada 14 haribulan December, 2023 …….……………t.t……………….. TETUAN GM TAN & COMPANY Peguamcara Plaintif NOTIS (IKLAN PENYAMPAIAN GANTI) ini telah difailkan oleh Tetuan GM Tan & Company,peguamcara pihak Plaintif yang beralamat di C-10-28, Block C, Lobby 2, Centum Oasis Corporate Park, No. 2, Jalan PJU 1A/2, Ara Damansara, 47301 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan. Tel No. : +603 2714 5456 E-mel :[email protected] Faks No.: +603 2714 5457 Ruj Kami: GMT/YIR(RCE)/00777 (R)/2023 322 Notices AKTA INSOLVENSI 1967 DALAM MAHKAMAH TINGGI MALAYA DI PULAU PINANG DALAM PERKARA KEBANKRAPAN NO. PA-29NCC-389-09/2023 Per: TIEW YI JIUN (No. K/P: 820110-07-5454) …Penghutang Penghakiman Ex-parte: HONG LEONG ISLAMIC BANK BERHAD [NO. SYARIKAT: 200501009144 (686191-W)] ...Pemiutang Penghakiman NOTIS (Dalam Perkara mengenai Notis Kebankrapan dikeluarkan pada 06-09- 2023) Kepada: TIEW YI JIUN 118C-08-04, Pearl Garden, Jalan Dato Ismail Hashim, Sungai Ara, 11900 Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang. Dan/Atau TIEW YI JIUN De Zorra Venture, 42, Jalan Jones, Pulau Tikus, 10250 Georgetown, Pulau Pinang. Dan/Atau TIEW YI JIUN No. 11, Jelutong Avenue, 11600 Georgetown, Pulau Pinang. AMBIL PERHATIAN bahawa satu Notis Kebankrapan telah dikeluarkan terhadap kamu di Mahkamah Tinggi Pulau Pinang ini oleh Hong Leong Islamic Bank Berhad [No. Syarikat: 200501009144 (686191-W)] yang beralamat di Pungutan KonsumerOperasi Undang-undang, Level 2, Tower A, PJ City Development, 15A, Jalan 219, Section 51A, 46100 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan dan Mahkamah telah memerintahkan bahawa Notis Kebankrapan tersebut diserahkan kepada kamu secara penyampaian ganti dengan menampalkan satu salinan Notis Kebankrapan berserta dengan satu salinan Perintah yang dibuat di sini di Papan Notis Mahkamah Tinggi Malaya di Pulau Pinang, di premis alamat terakhir Penghutang Penghakiman di 118C08-04, Pearl Garden, Jalan Dato Ismail Hashim, Sungai Ara, 11900 Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang, dan di De Zorra Venture, 42, Jalan Jones, Pulau Tikus, 10250 Georgetown, Pulau Pinang dan No. 11, Jelutong Avenue, 11600 Georgetown, Pulau Pinang dan dengan mengiklankan satu Notis sekali dalam suratkhabar tempatan berbahasa Inggeris iaitu The Sun untuk satu terbitan dan penampalan dan pengiklanan tersebut disifatkan baik dan memadai bagi penyampaian Notis Kebankrapan terhadap Penghutang Penghakiman tersebut selepas tamat tempoh empat belas (14) hari selepas tarikh akhir penampalan dan pengiklanan tersebut. Notis Kebankrapan boleh diperiksa oleh kamu atas permohonan di Mahkamah ini. Bertarikh pada 16 November 2023 t.t …………………… ZAIREEN BINTI ZAINUDIN Penolong Kanan Pendaftar Mahkamah Tinggi Malaya Georgetown Notis ini dikeluarkan oleh Tetuan Murad & Foo yang beralamat di Suite 10.01, Tingkat 10, MWE Plaza, No. 8, Lebuh Farquhar, 10200 Pulau Pinang Peguamcara bagi Pemiutang Penghakiman tersebut di atas. [Ruj: TLN/HLIB/F.247/2023(BN)/ina] PERISYTIHARAN JUALAN DALAM MAHKAMAH TINGGI MALAYA DI PULAU PINANG PERMOHONAN UNTUK PERLAKSANAAN NO:PA-38-752-10/2023 Dalam perkara mengenai Seksyen 256 dan 257 Kanun Tanah Negara, 1965 Dan Dalam perkara mengenai Gadaian Perserahan No: 0799SC2021000080 (bertarikh 02/12/2020) ke atas semua bahagian tanah yang dipegang di bawah GRN 153932/ M1BC/28/959, Lot 71378, Mukim 12, Daerah Barat Daya, Pulau Pinang Dan Dalam perkara mengenai Aturan 83 Kaedah- Kaedah Mahkamah, 2012 ANTARA Public Islamic Bank Berhad (No. Syarikat : 14328-V) .. PLAINTIF DAN Sharifah Kareena Bt Syed Amerruddin (No. Kad Pengenalan : 800516075376) ...DEFENDAN Menurut Perintah Mahkamah Tinggi Malaya di PULAU PINANG mengenai Perintah Jualan dan Perintah bertarikh 19 April 2023 dan 16 November 2023, adalah dengan ini diisytiharkan bahawa Timbalan Pendaftar/Penolong Kanan Pendaftar Pusat Operasi e-Lelong di Kuantan AKAN MENJUAL SECARA LELONG AWAM Pada Hari Selasa, 9 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 Pejabat Tanah dan memeriksa semua tanggungan, bebanan serta mengenal pasti dengan tepat hartanah tersebut sebelum juaIan lelongan dijaIankan. Sila layari https://eIeIong.kehakiman.gov.my/bidderweb BUTIR-BUTIR HAKMILIK: No. Hakmilik : GRN 153932/M1BC/28/959 No. Lot : Lot 71378 Mukim/Daerah/Negeri : 12 / Barat Daya / Pulau Pinang Pegangan : Hakmilik Kekal No. Petak/No. Tingkat/No. : 959 / 28 / M1BC Bangunan Keluasan Tanah : 2551.0000000000 kaki persegi : 237.0000000000 meter persegi Pemilik Berdaftar : Sharifah Kareena Bt Syed Amerruddin Syarat Nyata : Petak ini hendaklah digunakan untuk tujuan suite perniagaan sahaja Sekatan Kepentingan : Tiada Bebanan / Lain-Lain : Kawasan Rizab : Kaveat : LOKASI DAN PERIHAL HARTANAH : Hartanah tersebut adalah “A unit of duplex penthouse service apartment yang beralamat pos di No. 1C-28-1, Jalan Mayang Pasir 3, Elit Heights-Elit 3, 11950, Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang. HARGA RIZAB : Hartanah tersebut akan dijual atas “sepertimana sedia ada” tertakluk kepada satu harga rizab sebanyak RM 1,100,000.00 (RINGGIT MALAYSIA: SATU JUTA SATU 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 PUBLIC ISLAMIC BANK BERHAD 1 HARI BEKERJA sebelum tarikh lelong awam. Baki harga belian hendaklah dibayar oleh pembida yang berjaya kepada PUBLIC ISLAMIC BANK BERHAD dalam tempoh seratus dua puluh (120) hari dari tarikh jualan. Untuk butir-butir selanjutnya, sila berhubung dengan:- Firma Guaman : WONG-CHOOI & MOHD NOR Alamat : NO. 27, 1ST FLOOR JALAN MAJU JAYA PUSAT PERNIAGAAN MAJU JAYA, 14000 BUKIT MERTAJAM, PULAU PINANG No. Telefon : 04-5398855 No. Fax : 04-5395855 No. Rujukan : WCMN(BM)/PIBB-HL/2022-437/SKSA(RS/j) PERISYTIHARAN JUALAN DALAM MAHKAMAH TINGGI MALAYA DI PULAU PINANG PERMOHONAN UNTUK PERLAKSANAAN NO: PA-38-749-10/2023 Dalam perkara mengenai Seksyen 256 dan 257 Kanun Tanah Negara, 1965 Dan Dalam perkara mengenai Gadaian Perserahan No: 14859/2009 (bertarikh : 30/04/2009) ke atas semua bahagian tanah yang dipegang di bawah Geran No. 106785, Lot 2685, Mukim 12, Daerah Seberang Perai Tengah, Pulau Pinang Dan Dalam perkara mengenai Aturan 83 Kaedah- Kaedah Mahkamah, 2012 ANTARA PUBLIC BANK BERHAD (No. Syarikat : 6463-H) ...PLAINTIF DAN LIANG BEE FONG (No. Kad Pengenalan : 760829025384) ...DEFENDAN Menurut Perintah Mahkamah Tinggi Malaya di PULAU PINANG mengenai Perintah Jualan dan Perintah bertarikh 24 Ogos 2023 dan 15 November 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, 8 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 aqar membuat carian Hakmilik secara rasmi di Pejabat Tanah dan memeriksa semua tanqqunqan, bebanan serta mengenal pasti dengan tepat hartanah tersebut sebelum jualan lelonqan dijalankan. Sila layari https://elelong.kehakiman.gov.my/bidderweb BUTIR-BUTIR HAKMILIK: No. Hakmilik : Geran No. 106785 No. lot : Lot 2685 Mukim / Daerah / Negeri : 12 / Seberang Perai Tengah / Pulau Pinang Pegangan : Hakmilik Kekal No. Petak/No. Tingkat/ No. Bangunan : Keluasan Tanah : 1281.0000000000 kaki persegi 119.0000000000 meter persegi Pemilik Berdaftar : LIANG BEE FONG Syarat Nyata : (FIRST GRADE) The Land comprised in this title: (a) shall not be affected by any provision of the National Land Code limiting the compensation payable on the exercise by the State Authority of a right of access or use conferred by Chapter 3 of Part Three of the Code or on the creation of a Land Administrator’s right of way; and (b) subject to the Sekatan Kepentingan : Tiada Bebanan / Lain-Lain : Kawasan Rizab : Kaveat : LOKASI DAN PERIHAL HARTANAH : Hartanah tersebut adalah Rumah Teres Dua Tingkat yang beralamat pos di 11A, Lorong Bukit Juru 10, Taman Bukit Juru, 14100 Simpang Ampat, Pulau Pinang. HARGA RIZAB : Hartanah tersebut akan dijual atas “sepertimana sedia ada” tertakluk kepada satu harga rizab sebanyak RM 450,000.00 (RINGGIT MALAYSIA: EMPAT RATUS LIMA PULUH 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 PUBLIC BANK BERHAD 1 HARI BEKERJA sebelum tarikh lelong awam. Baki harga belian hendaklah dibayar oleh pembida yang berjaya kepada PUBLIC BANK BERHAD dalam tempoh seratus dua puluh (120) hari dari tarikh jualan. Untuk butir-butir selanjutnya, sila berhubung dengan:- Firma Guaman : TOH THEAM HOCK & CO. Alamat : NO. 155, 1ST FLOOR MEDAN KIKIK SATU TAMAN INDERAWASIH, 13600, PG, MY No. Telefon : 04-3981917 No. Fax : 04-3981921 No. Rujukan : TTH/PBB/HL-267/2017/OSY/DURA 322 Notices 322 Notices PERISYTIHARAN JUALAN DALAM MAHKAMAH TINGGI MALAYA DI PULAU PINANG PERMOHONAN UNTUK PERLAKSANAAN NO: PA-38-738-10/2023 Dalam perkara mengenai Seksyen 256 dan 257 Kanun Tanah Negara, 1965 Dan Dalam perkara mengenai Gadaian Perserahan No: 0799SC2014038960 (bertarikh : 30/10/2014) ke atas semua bahagian tanah yang dipegang di bawah Geran No. 121505, Lot 4801, Mukim 16, Daerah Seberang Perai Utara, Pulau Pinang Dan Dalam perkara mengenai Aturan 83 Kaedah- Kaedah Mahkamah, 2012 ANTARA PUBLIC ISLAMIC BANK BERHAD (No. Syarikat : 14328-V) ...PLAINTIF DAN MAZLAN BIN MANSOR (No. Kad Pengenalan : 660812095003) ...DEFENDAN Menurut Perintah Mahkamah Tinggi Malaya di PULAU PINANG mengenai Perintah Jualan dan Perintah bertarikh 8 Jun 2023 dan 14 November 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, 10 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 aqar membuat carian Hakmilik secara rasmi di Pejabat Tanah dan memeriksa semua tanqqunqan, bebanan serta mengenal pasti dengan tepat hartanah tersebut sebelum jualan lelonqan dijalankan. Sila layari https://elelong.kehakiman.gov.my/bidderweb BUTIR-BUTIR HAKMILIK: No. Hakmilik : Geran No. 121505 No. lot : Lot 4801 Mukim / Daerah / Negeri : 16 / Seberang Perai Utara / Pulau Pinang Pegangan : Hakmilik Kekal No. Petak/No. Tingkat/ No. Bangunan : Keluasan Tanah : 1302.0000000000 kaki persegi 121.0000000000 meter persegi Pemilik Berdaftar : MAZLAN BIN MANSOR Syarat Nyata : Tanah yang diberimilik ini hendaklah digunakan untuk tujuan kediaman sahaja. Sekatan Kepentingan : Tanah yang diberimilik ini tidak boleh dipindahmilik, dicagar, pajak, pajakan kacil atau apa-apa urusniagapun tanpa kebenaran bertulis daripada Pihak Berkuasa Negeri Bebanan / Lain-Lain : Kawasan Rizab : Kaveat : LOKASI DAN PERIHAL HARTANAH : Hartanah tersebut adalah Rumah Teres Dua Tingkat yang beralamat pos di No. 72, Lorong Sungai Dua Utama 26, Taman Sungai Dua Utama, 13800, Butterworth, Pulau Pinang HARGA RIZAB : Hartanah tersebut akan dijual atas “sepertimana sedia ada” tertakluk kepada satu harga rizab sebanyak RM 450,000.00 (RINGGIT MALAYSIA: EMPAT RATUS LIMA PULUH 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 PUBLIC ISLAMIC BANK BERHAD 1 HARI BEKERJA sebelum tarikh lelong awam. Baki harga belian hendaklah dibayar oleh pembida yang berjaya kepada PUBLIC ISLAMIC BANK BERHAD dalam tempoh seratus dua puluh (120) hari dari tarikh jualan. Untuk butir-butir selanjutnya, sila berhubung dengan:- Firma Guaman : TOH THEAM HOCK & CO. Alamat : NO. 155, 1ST FLOOR MEDAN KIKIK SATU TAMAN INDERAWASIH, 13600, PG, MY No. Telefon : 04-3981917 No. Fax : 04-3981921 No. Rujukan : TTH/PBB/IF-95/2022/OSY/DURA PERISYTIHARAN JUALAN DALAM MAHKAMAH TINGGI MALAYA DI PULAU PINANG PERMOHONAN UNTUK PERLAKSANAAN NO: PA-38-700-09/2023 Dalam perkara mengenai Seksyen 256 dan 257 Kanun Tanah Negara, 1965 Dan Dalam perkara mengenai Gadaian Perserahan No: 0705SC2017000035 (bertarikh : 09/11/2016) ke atas semua bahagian tanah yang dipegang di bawah Hakmilik Strata No. Hakmilik Geran Mukim 775/M1/4/88, Lot 1051, Mukim 11, Daerah Barat daya, Pulau Pinang Dan Dalam perkara mengenai Aturan 83 Kaedah- Kaedah Mahkamah, 2012 ANTARA PUBLIC ISLAMIC BANK BERHAD (No. Syarikat : 14328-V) ...PLAINTIF DAN MUHAMMAD SYAFIQ BIN ANUAR (No. Kad Pengenalan : 891201075503) ...DEFENDAN Menurut Perintah Mahkamah Tinggi Malaya di PULAU PINANG mengenai Perintah Jualan dan Perintah bertarikh 11 Ogos 2023 dan 7 November 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, 8 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 aqar membuat carian Hakmilik secara rasmi di Pejabat Tanah dan memeriksa semua tanqqunqan, bebanan serta mengenal pasti dengan tepat hartanah tersebut sebelum jualan lelonqan dijalankan. Sila layari https://elelong.kehakiman.gov.my/bidderweb BUTIR-BUTIR HAKMILIK: No. Hakmilik : Hakmilik Strata No. Hakmilik Geran Mukim 775/ M1/4/88 No. lot : Lot 1051 Mukim / Daerah / Negeri : 11 / Barat Daya / Pulau Pinang Pegangan : Hakmilik Kekal No. Petak/No. Tingkat/ No. Bangunan : 88 / 4 / M1 Keluasan Tanah : 463.0000000000 kaki persegi 43.0000000000 meter persegi Pemilik Berdaftar : MUHAMMAD SYAFIQ BIN ANUAR 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 Rumah Pangsa yang beralamat pos di 6-3-16, Lintang Sungai Batu, Taman Teluk Kumbar, 11920, Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang. HARGA RIZAB : Hartanah tersebut akan dijual atas “sepertimana sedia ada” tertakluk kepada satu harga rizab sebanyak RM 100,000.00 (RINGGIT MALAYSIA: SATU 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 PUBLIC ISLAMIC BANK BERHAD 1 HARI BEKERJA sebelum tarikh lelong awam. Baki harga belian hendaklah dibayar oleh pembida yang berjaya kepada PUBLIC ISLAMIC BANK BERHAD dalam tempoh seratus dua puluh (120) hari dari tarikh jualan. Untuk butir-butir selanjutnya, sila berhubung dengan:- Firma Guaman : TOH THEAM HOCK & CO. Alamat : NO. 155, 1ST FLOOR MEDAN KIKIK SATU TAMAN INDERAWASIH, 13600, PG, MY No. Telefon : 04-3981917 No. Fax : 04-3981921 No. Rujukan : TTH/PBB/IF-15/2022/OSY/NA DALAM MAHKAMAH MAJISTRET DI KUALA LUMPUR DALAM WILAYAH PERSEKUTUAN KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA GUAMAN SIVIL NO: WA-A72M-18677-10/2023 ANTARA YAYASAN IHSAN RAKYAT (No Syarikat.: 201201017719 [1003231-A]) …PLAINTIF DAN SITI FATIMAH BINTI AHMAD DRAWEE (No. K/P: 871109-03-5658) ...DEFENDAN NOTIS (IKLAN PENYAMPAIAN GANTI) Kepada: - 1) SITI FATIMAH BINTI AHMAD DRAWEE SILA AMBIL PERHATIAN bahawa suatu tindakan telah dimulakan terhadap kamu di Mahkamah Sesyen Kuala Lumpur , dalam Guaman No. WAA72M-18677-10/2023 oleh Yayasan Ihsan Rakyat (“Plaintif”) yang beralamat di di Tingkat 20, Menara Teo Chew, No. 1, Jalan Lumut, 50400 Kuala Lumpur di mana Plaintif menuntut terhadap kamu antara lain untuk membayar semula pinjaman, faedah dan kos. DAN TELAH DIPERINTAHKAN bahawa Writ Saman dan Pernyataan Tuntutan bertarikh 23.10.2023 dilaksanakan secara penyampaian ganti terhadap kamu dengan menghantar melalui serahan melalui menampalkan pada Papan Notis Mahkamah Majistret Kuala Lumpur, menampalkan di alamat terakhir yang diketahui Plaintif dan mengiklankan sekali di suatu penerbitan akhbar ‘The Sun’ dan penyampaian Writ Saman dan Pernyataan Tuntutan sedemikian akan disifatkan sebagai penyerahan lengkap dan sempurna terhadap kamu dalam masa tujuh hari (7) hari selepas tarikh penampalan atau pengiklanan yang terakhir tersebut. Jika kamu berhasrat untuk membela tindakan tersebut, kamu mestilah memasukkan kehadiran sama ada secara sendiri atau melalui peguamcara kamu. Jika kamu ingkar hadir sedemikian, penghakiman boleh diberikan terhadap kamu. Bertarikh pada 14 haribulan December, 2023 …….……………t.t……………….. TETUAN GM TAN & COMPANY Peguamcara Plaintif NOTIS (IKLAN PENYAMPAIAN GANTI) ini telah difailkan oleh Tetuan GM Tan & Company,peguamcara pihak Plaintif yang beralamat di C-10-28, Block C, Lobby 2, Centum Oasis Corporate Park, No. 2, Jalan PJU 1A/2, Ara Damansara, 47301 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan. Tel No. : +603 2714 5456 E-mel :[email protected] Faks No.: +603 2714 5457 Ruj Kami: GMT/YIR(RCE)/00777 (R)/2023 322 Notices AKTA INSOLVENSI 1967 DALAM MAHKAMAH TINGGI MALAYA DI PULAU PINANG DALAM PERKARA KEBANKRAPAN NO. PA-29NCC-389-09/2023 Per: TIEW YI JIUN (No. K/P: 820110-07-5454) …Penghutang Penghakiman Ex-parte: HONG LEONG ISLAMIC BANK BERHAD [NO. SYARIKAT: 200501009144 (686191-W)] ...Pemiutang Penghakiman NOTIS (Dalam Perkara mengenai Notis Kebankrapan dikeluarkan pada 06-09- 2023) Kepada: TIEW YI JIUN 118C-08-04, Pearl Garden, Jalan Dato Ismail Hashim, Sungai Ara, 11900 Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang. Dan/Atau TIEW YI JIUN De Zorra Venture, 42, Jalan Jones, Pulau Tikus, 10250 Georgetown, Pulau Pinang. Dan/Atau TIEW YI JIUN No. 11, Jelutong Avenue, 11600 Georgetown, Pulau Pinang. AMBIL PERHATIAN bahawa satu Notis Kebankrapan telah dikeluarkan terhadap kamu di Mahkamah Tinggi Pulau Pinang ini oleh Hong Leong Islamic Bank Berhad [No. Syarikat: 200501009144 (686191-W)] yang beralamat di Pungutan KonsumerOperasi Undang-undang, Level 2, Tower A, PJ City Development, 15A, Jalan 219, Section 51A, 46100 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan dan Mahkamah telah memerintahkan bahawa Notis Kebankrapan tersebut diserahkan kepada kamu secara penyampaian ganti dengan menampalkan satu salinan Notis Kebankrapan berserta dengan satu salinan Perintah yang dibuat di sini di Papan Notis Mahkamah Tinggi Malaya di Pulau Pinang, di premis alamat terakhir Penghutang Penghakiman di 118C08-04, Pearl Garden, Jalan Dato Ismail Hashim, Sungai Ara, 11900 Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang, dan di De Zorra Venture, 42, Jalan Jones, Pulau Tikus, 10250 Georgetown, Pulau Pinang dan No. 11, Jelutong Avenue, 11600 Georgetown, Pulau Pinang dan dengan mengiklankan satu Notis sekali dalam suratkhabar tempatan berbahasa Inggeris iaitu The Sun untuk satu terbitan dan penampalan dan pengiklanan tersebut disifatkan baik dan memadai bagi penyampaian Notis Kebankrapan terhadap Penghutang Penghakiman tersebut selepas tamat tempoh empat belas (14) hari selepas tarikh akhir penampalan dan pengiklanan tersebut. Notis Kebankrapan boleh diperiksa oleh kamu atas permohonan di Mahkamah ini. Bertarikh pada 16 November 2023 t.t …………………… ZAIREEN BINTI ZAINUDIN Penolong Kanan Pendaftar Mahkamah Tinggi Malaya Georgetown Notis ini dikeluarkan oleh Tetuan Murad & Foo yang beralamat di Suite 10.01, Tingkat 10, MWE Plaza, No. 8, Lebuh Farquhar, 10200 Pulau Pinang Peguamcara bagi Pemiutang Penghakiman tersebut di atas. [Ruj: TLN/HLIB/F.247/2023(BN)/ina] PERISYTIHARAN JUALAN DALAM MAHKAMAH TINGGI MALAYA DI PULAU PINANG PERMOHONAN UNTUK PERLAKSANAAN NO:PA-38-752-10/2023 Dalam perkara mengenai Seksyen 256 dan 257 Kanun Tanah Negara, 1965 Dan Dalam perkara mengenai Gadaian Perserahan No: 0799SC2021000080 (bertarikh 02/12/2020) ke atas semua bahagian tanah yang dipegang di bawah GRN 153932/ M1BC/28/959, Lot 71378, Mukim 12, Daerah Barat Daya, Pulau Pinang Dan Dalam perkara mengenai Aturan 83 Kaedah- Kaedah Mahkamah, 2012 ANTARA Public Islamic Bank Berhad (No. Syarikat : 14328-V) .. PLAINTIF DAN Sharifah Kareena Bt Syed Amerruddin (No. Kad Pengenalan : 800516075376) ...DEFENDAN Menurut Perintah Mahkamah Tinggi Malaya di PULAU PINANG mengenai Perintah Jualan dan Perintah bertarikh 19 April 2023 dan 16 November 2023, adalah dengan ini diisytiharkan bahawa Timbalan Pendaftar/Penolong Kanan Pendaftar Pusat Operasi e-Lelong di Kuantan AKAN MENJUAL SECARA LELONG AWAM Pada Hari Selasa, 9 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 Pejabat Tanah dan memeriksa semua tanggungan, bebanan serta mengenal pasti dengan tepat hartanah tersebut sebelum juaIan lelongan dijaIankan. Sila layari https://eIeIong.kehakiman.gov.my/bidderweb BUTIR-BUTIR HAKMILIK: No. Hakmilik : GRN 153932/M1BC/28/959 No. Lot : Lot 71378 Mukim/Daerah/Negeri : 12 / Barat Daya / Pulau Pinang Pegangan : Hakmilik Kekal No. Petak/No. Tingkat/No. : 959 / 28 / M1BC Bangunan Keluasan Tanah : 2551.0000000000 kaki persegi : 237.0000000000 meter persegi Pemilik Berdaftar : Sharifah Kareena Bt Syed Amerruddin Syarat Nyata : Petak ini hendaklah digunakan untuk tujuan suite perniagaan sahaja Sekatan Kepentingan : Tiada Bebanan / Lain-Lain : Kawasan Rizab : Kaveat : LOKASI DAN PERIHAL HARTANAH : Hartanah tersebut adalah “A unit of duplex penthouse service apartment yang beralamat pos di No. 1C-28-1, Jalan Mayang Pasir 3, Elit Heights-Elit 3, 11950, Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang. HARGA RIZAB : Hartanah tersebut akan dijual atas “sepertimana sedia ada” tertakluk kepada satu harga rizab sebanyak RM 1,100,000.00 (RINGGIT MALAYSIA: SATU JUTA SATU 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 PUBLIC ISLAMIC BANK BERHAD 1 HARI BEKERJA sebelum tarikh lelong awam. Baki harga belian hendaklah dibayar oleh pembida yang berjaya kepada PUBLIC ISLAMIC BANK BERHAD dalam tempoh seratus dua puluh (120) hari dari tarikh jualan. Untuk butir-butir selanjutnya, sila berhubung dengan:- Firma Guaman : WONG-CHOOI & MOHD NOR Alamat : NO. 27, 1ST FLOOR JALAN MAJU JAYA PUSAT PERNIAGAAN MAJU JAYA, 14000 BUKIT MERTAJAM, PULAU PINANG No. Telefon : 04-5398855 No. Fax : 04-5395855 No. Rujukan : WCMN(BM)/PIBB-HL/2022-437/SKSA(RS/j) PERISYTIHARAN JUALAN DALAM MAHKAMAH TINGGI MALAYA DI PULAU PINANG PERMOHONAN UNTUK PERLAKSANAAN NO: PA-38-749-10/2023 Dalam perkara mengenai Seksyen 256 dan 257 Kanun Tanah Negara, 1965 Dan Dalam perkara mengenai Gadaian Perserahan No: 14859/2009 (bertarikh : 30/04/2009) ke atas semua bahagian tanah yang dipegang di bawah Geran No. 106785, Lot 2685, Mukim 12, Daerah Seberang Perai Tengah, Pulau Pinang Dan Dalam perkara mengenai Aturan 83 Kaedah- Kaedah Mahkamah, 2012 ANTARA PUBLIC BANK BERHAD (No. Syarikat : 6463-H) ...PLAINTIF DAN LIANG BEE FONG (No. Kad Pengenalan : 760829025384) ...DEFENDAN Menurut Perintah Mahkamah Tinggi Malaya di PULAU PINANG mengenai Perintah Jualan dan Perintah bertarikh 24 Ogos 2023 dan 15 November 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, 8 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 aqar membuat carian Hakmilik secara rasmi di Pejabat Tanah dan memeriksa semua tanqqunqan, bebanan serta mengenal pasti dengan tepat hartanah tersebut sebelum jualan lelonqan dijalankan. Sila layari https://elelong.kehakiman.gov.my/bidderweb BUTIR-BUTIR HAKMILIK: No. Hakmilik : Geran No. 106785 No. lot : Lot 2685 Mukim / Daerah / Negeri : 12 / Seberang Perai Tengah / Pulau Pinang Pegangan : Hakmilik Kekal No. Petak/No. Tingkat/ No. Bangunan : Keluasan Tanah : 1281.0000000000 kaki persegi 119.0000000000 meter persegi Pemilik Berdaftar : LIANG BEE FONG Syarat Nyata : (FIRST GRADE) The Land comprised in this title: (a) shall not be affected by any provision of the National Land Code limiting the compensation payable on the exercise by the State Authority of a right of access or use conferred by Chapter 3 of Part Three of the Code or on the creation of a Land Administrator’s right of way; and (b) subject to the Sekatan Kepentingan : Tiada Bebanan / Lain-Lain : Kawasan Rizab : Kaveat : LOKASI DAN PERIHAL HARTANAH : Hartanah tersebut adalah Rumah Teres Dua Tingkat yang beralamat pos di 11A, Lorong Bukit Juru 10, Taman Bukit Juru, 14100 Simpang Ampat, Pulau Pinang. HARGA RIZAB : Hartanah tersebut akan dijual atas “sepertimana sedia ada” tertakluk kepada satu harga rizab sebanyak RM 450,000.00 (RINGGIT MALAYSIA: EMPAT RATUS LIMA PULUH 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 PUBLIC BANK BERHAD 1 HARI BEKERJA sebelum tarikh lelong awam. Baki harga belian hendaklah dibayar oleh pembida yang berjaya kepada PUBLIC BANK BERHAD dalam tempoh seratus dua puluh (120) hari dari tarikh jualan. Untuk butir-butir selanjutnya, sila berhubung dengan:- Firma Guaman : TOH THEAM HOCK & CO. Alamat : NO. 155, 1ST FLOOR MEDAN KIKIK SATU TAMAN INDERAWASIH, 13600, PG, MY No. Telefon : 04-3981917 No. Fax : 04-3981921 No. Rujukan : TTH/PBB/HL-267/2017/OSY/DURA 322 Notices 322 Notices Russell shines on recall West Indies beat England by four wickets in first T20 VETERAN all-rounder Andre Russell made a dazzling return to international cricket to help West Indies cruise to a four-wicket victory over England in the opening Twenty20 international in Barbados yesterday. Handed a shock recall after a two-year absence, Russell shone with bat and ball at Kensington Oval as the home side reached the victory target with ease to finish on 172-6 from 18.1 overs. The 35-year-old Russell was the pick of the West Indies bowlers with three wickets for 19 runs off four overs as world champions England were all out for 171. “Life is so funny,” man-of-the-match Russell said. “Since when I got selected for the West Indies team I’ve been dreaming for two weeks now – and I was dreaming of being man of the match.” England skipper Jos Buttler was left to rue the tourists’ inability to cash in on a strong start to their innings which included a 77-run opening partnership. “From the position we were in, we were looking for a score of 200,” said Buttler, who scored 39 while fellow opener Phil Salt put on a stylish 40 off 20 balls. “We want to keep pushing the boundaries and trying to be as positive as we can.” The second game of the series takes place in Grenada tomorrow (1.30am Malaysian time). – AFP CRICKET AUSTRALIA (CA) said yesterday they backed Usman Khawaja’s right to express his support for the people of Gaza but expected him to conform to International Cricket Council (ICC) rules banning displays on his playing equipment. Batter Khawaja had the messages “Freedom is a human right” and “All lives are equal” written on his boots in the colours of the Palestinian flag in Tuesday’s training for the first Test against Pakistan. According to Australian media reports, the Pakistan-born opener intended to wear the boots during the match, which starts at Perth Stadium today. “We support the right of our players to express personal opinions, but the ICC has rules in place which prohibit the display of personal messages which we expect the players to uphold,” Cricket Australia said in a statement. Captain Pat Cummins later told a media conference that Khawaja had decided against wearing the boots during the match. “Uzzie doesn’t want to make too big of a fuss,” he said. “On his shoes he had, ‘all lives are equal’. I think that’s not very divisive. I don’t think anyone can really have too many complaints about that.” Australia’s Sports Minister Anika Wells, however, gave Khawaja her full backing. “I have always advocated for athletes having the right to a voice and to speak up on matters important to them,” she told local media. “Usman Khawaja is a great athlete and a great Australian. He should have every right to speak up on matters that are important to him.” – Reuters Khawaja won’t wear shoes: Cummins Andre Russell of West Indies. – AFPPIX

SPORTS SPORTS THURSDAY | DEC 14, 2023 29 THE president of top tier Turkish football club Ankaragucu, Faruk Koca, was arrested yesterday for punching a referee in the face at the end of a match, with the official telling police that Koca had threatened to kill him. The arrest followed an outbreak of violence during Super Lig club Ankaragucu’s home match against Rizespor on Monday evening. Referee Halil Umut Meler, who was also kicked while lying on the pitch, said that Koca had also threatened him and his colleagues, state-owned Anadolu news agency reported. “Faruk Koca punched me under my left eye; I fell to the ground. While I was on the ground, other people kicked me in the face and other parts of my body many times,” he said. “Koca said to me and my colleagues, ‘I will finish you’. Addressing me, he said, ‘I will kill you.’” According to Demiroren News Agency, Koca told the court: “This incident developed due to the wrong decisions and provocative behaviour of the referee. My aim was to react verbally to the referee and spit in his face.” Koca resigned as president of Ankaragucu yesterday, and the club later said his deputy, Ismail Mert Firat, had been elected to the post by the club’s board. Justice Minister Yilmaz Tunc said Koca and two others were formally arrested for “injuring a public official” after prosecutors took statements from them. “The investigation is continuing meticulously,” he said on social media platform X, adding judicial controls were imposed on three other suspects. The referee was lying in a hospital bed with a swollen face and a neck brace, footage provided by the ministry showed. “The bleeding in Meler’s left eye started to decrease” and there will be no permanent damage, said Mehmet Yorubulut, chief doctor of Acibadem hospital. “The fracture there will gradually heal. There is no brain damage,” he said. Gianni Infantino, president of world f o o t b a l l ’ s governing body FIFA, said the events after the match were “ t o t a l l y u n a c c e p t a b l e and have no place in our sport or society”. “ W i t h o u t match officials there is no football,” he added. E u r o p e a n f o o t b a l l governing body UEFA also condemned the incident. “We urge the authorities and the responsible disciplinary bodies to take decisive and necessary action against anyone involved in acts of abuse and violence against referees,” UEFA said. “Such unacceptable and distressing behaviour is detrimental to the efforts of national associations to recruit referees, which are essential for the running of the game.” Hugh Dallas, Turkish Super Lig’s head of referee education, was in the stadium when the incident happened and has called for governments to take action. “I’ve never seen a referee at the top level in a top country being assaulted that way,” Dallas told the BBC. “I think a lot of club presidents, media and others will take a look at themselves today and realise when you whip up that type of mass hysteria regarding refereeing, this is the result.” Pierluigi Collina, chairman of FIFA’s referees committee, described images of the incident as horrific. “Neither the referee, nor the man, deserved to live the experience he lived yesterday in Ankara. He was doing his job when he was assaulted on the field of play at the end of a match he just officiated,” Collina said. – Reuters Koca arrested FC COPENHAGEN qualified for the last 16 of the Champions League for the second time in their history yesterday thanks to a Lukas Lerager winner in a 1- 0 home victory over Galatasaray. The Danish champions overcame the odds in a group featuring Manchester United and Galatasaray to book their place in the knockout stages for the first time since 2010-11. “I almost have no words for how big it is for us to take eight points against Bayern Munich, Manchester United and Galatasaray,” said coach Jacob Neestrup. “I think it is an extraordinary achievement that a Danish team can advance. The group was so strong and full of so many world stars.” Copenhagen finished the game where they started it, in second place, though they ensured qualification in style with a second win of this campaign. Elsewhere in Group A, Galatasaray dropped into the Europa League playoffs while Manchester United fell out of European competition completely. “Our goal continues. We are in the Europa League play-off round. Our goal is to win trophies in Europe. Our goal does not end,” said Galatasaray coach Okan Buruk. Lerager’s second half tap-in ensured Copenhagen kept their fate in their own hands with a win that gave them a three-point lead over the Turkish side in third place. In the opening 45 minutes both sides showed intent but lacked a cutting edge on a nervy night where all was to play for. The best chance fell inside the first 10 minutes to the side who were going through as things stood. The breakthrough then came for the hosts 13 minutes after halftime when midfielder Lerager converted from inside the six-yard box after being set up by Elias Achouri. With their participation in the Champions League disappearing before their eyes, Kerem Akturkoglu raced onto a backheel on 74 minutes from Mauro Icardi yards out from goal, but his wild effort flew over the bar. – AFP CHELSEA’S transfer plans have been dealt a major blow after Premier League clubs voted to limit the amortisation of fees to five years. The Blues have spent heavily under the club’s new owners but handed out eight-year deals to players such as Enzo Fernandez, Moises Caicedo and Mykhailo Mudryk in order to spread the cost of their transfer fees and meet the Premier League’s financial fair play requirements. While the rule will not be backdated, meaning previous signings will not be impacted, it will prevent Chelsea or any other club from continuing to exploit the accounting loophole in the future. UEFA also acted to limit amortisation to five years in the summer, with the Premier League now falling in line. As an example of using amortisation to spread fees, a £100 million (RM590m) transfer would cost a club £12.5m (RM74m) per season if the player was signed on an eight-year contract. But that transfer would cost £20m (RM118m) per season if the contract was only over five years. Chelsea had looked to use that strategy with major transfers under their new owners, with Fernandez (£105m/RM619m), Mudryk (£62m/RM366m) and record Premier League buy Caicedo (£115m/RM678m) all registered until 2031 after signing eight-year contracts. Manager Mauricio Pochettino said following Chelsea’s dismal defeat to Everton on Sunday that he would look to use the transfer window in January – despite the club’s record £400m (RM2.36 billion) spending this summer. The Blues have spent over £1b (RM5.9b) under co-owners Todd Boehly and Behdad Eghbali. The Premier League confirmed the ruling following yesterday’s shareholders meeting and also announced a further change, with clubs now banned from signing players if they owe a transfer debt to another Premier League or English Football League club. – The Independent Blues transfer plans suffer major blow Al-Ittihad cruise pass Auckland City FIRST half goals from Romarinho, N’Golo Kante and Karim Benzema earned Saudi champions AlIttihad a 3-0 win over Auckland City at the King Abdullah Sports City Stadium yesterday to progress to the second round of the Club World Cup. Making their first appearance in the tournament since their run to the semifinals in 2005, Al-Ittihad dominated the game at their home ground to set up a clash against African champions Al Ahly at the same venue on Saturday. The winners will face Copa Libertadores champions Fluminense in the semifinals. Haaland return to training MANCHESTER CITY’S fears that Erling Haaland could miss the Club World Cup later this month have been eased after Pep Guardiola revealed the Norway striker will return to training today. Haaland picked up a foot injury during a 1-0 defeat to Aston Villa last week that forced him to miss Sunday’s 2-1 win at Luton. City host Crystal Palace in the Premier League on Saturday before jetting out to Saudi Arabia to play in the Club World Cup for the first time. “He’ll be back (in training) I think Thursday. We’ll see how he feels,” said Guardiola at his pre-match press conference in Belgrade. “I don’t know (if he will play against Palace) right now. Next press conference I could be more precise about his conditions.” James suffers fresh injury CHELSEA captain Reece James has suffered another hamstring injury that threatens his involvement in England’s squad at Euro 2024. The rightback went off injured during Chelsea’s 2-0 loss away to Everton in the Premier League on Sunday. “Captain Reece James has undergone medical assessment following Sunday’s 2-0 defeat at Everton,” said a statement on Chelsea’s website, posted yesterday. “The defender was withdrawn during the first half at Goodison Park and scan results have confirmed a hamstring injury. Reece will now begin his rehabilitation programme at Cobham.” Although no timescale has been put on James’ return from a seventh hamstring problem in three years, he could now be sidelined for at least three months. Surgery would likely delay James’s comeback but could prove beneficial to the 24-year-old’s longterm prospects. SHORTS Copenhagen advance to CL last 16 with Galatasaray win FC Copenhagen’s Lukas Lerager (centre) celebrates scoring their first goal with teammates against Galatasaray. – REUTERSPIX Turkey’s Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya visits referee Halil Umut Meler (centre) in hospital. – REUTERSPIX Turkish club president in police custody for punching referee

SPORTS SPORTS THURSDAY | DEC 14, 2023 30 A MUCH-CHANGED and lacklustre Arsenal were held 1-1 at Dutch league leaders PSV Eindhoven yesterday, a result that still sees the Gunners top Champions League Group B. The pressure was off as both sides had already secured their ticket to the last 16 and Arsenal in particular appeared to lack a competitive bite at the Philips Stadion. PSV have been the runaway team to catch in this season’s Eredivisie, winning all 15 of their matches and opening up a 10- point gap with nearest challenger Feyenoord. And it was the Dutch side which started the brighter, a smart move down the right slicing open the Gunners’ defence only for striker Ricardo Pepi to somehow contrive to miss from close range. Arsenal boss Mikael Arteta made eight changes from the side that lost 1-0 to Aston Villa in the Premier League at the weekend and the Gunners lacked organisation at the back and penetration up front. PSV created several first half chances with slick interplay and Belgian international striker Yorbe Vertessen hit the post with a fine header that had Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale beaten. Arsenal’s first meaningful chance came with nearly half an hour gone, a speculative shot from Egyptian international defender Mohamed Elneny fizzing just past the post. But the London club took the lead just minutes before the break, as striker Eddie Nketiah was given too much space in the box and fired a low shot into the corner. PSV were back on level terms less than five minutes into the second half when another through-ball dissected the Arsenal midfield and Vertessen curled his shot expertly past Ramsdale. While both sides continued to press gamely, neither would have been too disappointed with a dead-rubber draw that sees them both into the hat for the last 16. – AFP 5731/2023 13/12/2023(WED) 4081 7270 0807 1056 8968 1485 3517 6629 3128 4008 4552 3786 6302 2550 7453 3532 6518 9110 4285 6505 1764 0409 8419 22,333,505.80 4081 4081 4081 0807 0807 7270 0807 0807 7270 7270 4081 7270 246,143.70 4081 7270 0807 BOAR 63748 44289 4289 289 72172 8 9 0 1 197601 97601 7601 601 19760 1976 197 1 9 4,391,545.56 2,368,761.09 7 12 17 21 47 53 210,479.27 4 5 12 29 36 52 1 29 33 35 40 44 48 16,740,167.23 RM206,026 RM44,186 won on 10/12/2023 ! Toto 4D Jackpot 2 (i-System) Toto 4D Jackpot 2 301 898 + HORSE 350 400 + OX 910 736 +DRAGON Draw Date: 13/12/23 (Wed) Draw No: 5678/23 Venue: PERAK TURF CLUB 1898 0400 0736 2965 + 2174 3385 + 7030 0867 + 9627 1431 + 5526 3709 + 7278 1419 + 8960 4436 + 2551 1971 + 9434 8876 + 0815 4264 + 8791 RM14,112,485.00 1898 + 0400 0400 + 1898 1898 + 0736 0736 + 1898 0400 + 0736 0736 + 0400 RM642,492.50 RM50,000.00 RM2,096,817.00 RM214,861.00 642 965 162 174 833 385 057 030 790 867 689 627 951 431 165 526 823 709 157 278 321 419 688 960 144 436 802 551 131 971 329 434 198 876 450 815 434 264 678 791 898 400 736 RM626,235.70 898 + 400 + 736 400 + 736 + 898 898 + 736 + 400 736 + 898 + 400 400 + 898 + 736 736 + 400 + 898 Don't missed out Special Draw on 26 December 2023! Napoli end home hoodoo Serie A champions and Madrid reach Champions League knockout stage NAPOLI reached the last 16 of the Champions League yesterday after seeing off Braga 2-0 and ending a home hoodoo which had stretched back more than two months. The Italian champions qualified second in Group C behind Real Madrid thanks to Serder Saatci’s clumsy own goal and Victor Osimhen’s first strike since early October, both which came in the first half. Walter Mazzarri’s side would have got through even with a single goal defeat but in the end comfortably qualified for the next round, snapping a six-match winless streak at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona. A first win in Naples since beating Udinese there in late September made sure that Napoli finished the group stage on 10 points, six ahead of Braga who drop down to the Europa League. “It was our goal to get out of the group, which wasn’t easy. I think we can say that we deserved to go through,” Napoli captain Giovanni Di Lorenzo told Sky. “We’ve got a lot of work to do, but we’re playing well. It’s easy to look at results but the performances have been there.” After three defeats from his first four matches at the helm since returning in place of the sacked Rudi Garcia, Mazzarri had asked for Napoli to be more solid. And he was satisfied with the way his team dealt with a Braga team who were unbeaten in five coming into the match and are two points behind league leaders Sporting Lisbon in Portugal. “We weren’t perfect but compared to how things were… I’m pretty satisfied,” said Mazzarri. “We’ve started now, let’s put it like that. I’m optimistic.” In the other Group C match, Dani Ceballos scored with a minute remaining to keep Real Madrid’s perfect Champions League record intact this season, winning 3-2 at Union Berlin yesterday. Madrid came into the match guaranteed of first place in their group but fell behind just before halftime, Union striker Kevin Volland scoring on the counter after Luca Modric had a penalty saved. Already eliminated from the Champions League, Union needed to win to keep their Europa League hopes alive but conceded two Joselu goals in ten minutes, silencing the Berlin Olympic Stadium crowd. Alex Kral gave the home side hope late but Real regained the lead moments later through Dani Ceballos. Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti reflected on the “slightly unusual match” saying his side had the game “well controlled for 40 minutes and then two mad minutes made it complicated for us.” Home coach Nenad Bjelica said “Real Madrid make you run a lot, until you’re running on empty – but that also happens to better teams than Union Berlin. We’ll try and learn from that and do better.” – AFP Sub-par Gunners held ub-par Gunners held Great Chiellini retires from football FORMER Italy and Juventus defender Giorgio Chiellini has decided to retire from professional football, the 39-yearold announced on social media platform X yesterday. Chiellini, who played for Major League Soccer (MLS) club Los Angeles FC this season, retires after losing the MLS Cup final 2-1 to Columbus Crew on Saturday. The centreback, who represented his country on 117 occasions, captained Italy to the Euro 2020 title after they beat England on penalties in the final at Wembley. “You (football) have been the most beautiful and intense journey of my life,” Chiellini wrote on X. “You have been my everything. With you I have travelled a unique and unforgettable path. But now it is time to start new chapters, face new challenges and write further important and exciting pages of life. “For Juventus fans, for 17 seasons, the number 3 stood for one thing, and one thing only: Giorgio Chiellini,” Juventus wrote in a statement. “Player, man and captain – three perspectives of Giorgio himself, who today concluded his career as a footballer. “Everything, always, together. You were always by our side, like a superhero ready to intervene if necessary. In your case, however, there was no shield, red cloak or bat-mobile.” – Reuters PSV’s Patrick van Aanholt (centre) falls to the ground as he fights for the ball with Arsenal’s William Saliba (left). – AFPPIX

SPORTS SPORTS THURSDAY | DEC 14, 2023 31 FRANCE pulled off a dramatic 3-2 win over Australia to check into the semifinals of 2023 Men’s Hockey Junior World Cup (JWC) at the National Hockey Stadium in Bukit Jalil yesterday. Noe Jouin notched a brace for France to set up a semifinals battle against Spain, who beat Pakistan 4-2 in the other quarterfinal match. Les Blues head coach Matthias Dierckens in the post-match press conference admitted that, his player’s mistakes had opened up opportunities for Australia to bounced back and close the gap in the second half. “Just because of an individual player’s mistake on the kick off at the end, we received a yellow card and then we conceded. We were a bit lower on the pitch, but I think we fully deserved the win. I think the boys gave a hard fight to Australia. “They defended really well so I am really happy with the win, but I think we could have won this game bigger, maybe even 4- 1 if we did not make that mistake, I think Australia would not had that momentum to come back into the game and we nearly go to the shootouts,” he said. Meanwhile, Spain ended an 18-year wait to advance into the semifinals of JWC after beating Pakistan yesterday. – 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 967/23 13/12/2023 5046 8826 1542 6435 1843 0091 2562 4107 6027 8154 1675 6157 2197 0953 5158 1144 2838 2764 4333 4883 9343 7187 5345 RM21,369,010.62 RM207,404.78 5046 + 8826 8826 + 5046 1542 + 5046 5046 + 1542 8826 + 1542 1542 + 8826 3 11 18 19 27 28 31 33 10 25 RM4,261,809.43 RM142,386.01 4 6 2 6 4 2 4 6 2 6 4 6 2 6 4 2 4 6 2 6 2 6 4 2 4 6 2 6 4 2 4 6 4 2 2 6 1 0 JDT sinkBG Pathum 4-1 athum 4-1 BG PATHUM UNITED of Thailand admitted that the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) played a big part in his team’s downfall as they succumbed 4-1 to Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) during their Asian Champions League (ACL) Group I match at the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium on Tuesday. Coach Surachai Jaturapattarapong claimed that his men performed well in the first half to lead through a 28th-minute Igor Sergeev goal and keep the Southern Tigers at bay. However, the match turned on its head in the 55th minute when referee Ma Ning, upon consultation with the VAR team and viewing the pitchside monitor, awarded the Southern Tigers a penalty for an alleged handball by Danilo Alves, who was also given his marching orders. Bergson Da Silva stepped up to make it 1- 1 from the spot before adding the second in the 66th minute. Hendrick Dos Santos then made it 3-1 in the 86th minute before Arif Aiman Hanapi completed the fightback with goal number four in the final minutes of the game. “Although it was not so obvious after watching the incident, we had to accept the (VAR’s) decision and play with 10 men for 40 minutes in the second half. That affected us. “This is a difficult task because we have to face an opponent who have a great tactical game and players like Heberty (Fernandes), Bergson (Da Silva) and Arif Aiman (Hanapi). I had to make some tactical tweaks but it was still difficult to hold them back,” Jaturapattarapong told the postmatch press conference yesterday. He, however, vowed that the club would bounce back in the next ACL competition. He said BG Pathum United were unlucky this year after being placed in the “Group of Death”, which comprised Korean League 1 champions Ulsan Hyundai, Japanese League 1 runners-up Kawasaki Frontale and Malaysian Super League champions JDT. “We started (the campaign) on the backfoot when we lost some key players. “In addition, we also faced strong opponents. So, we are determined to rise again next season by improving the team’s tactics and strategies as well as paying full attention to each match and avoiding making simple mistakes,” he said. Meanwhile, JDT coach Esteban Solari was pleased with the way his men fought back in the second half. “We played against a very good team and it was a difficult game. In the first, we struggled a bit but we managed to fight back after the break and scored the goals. “I’m so happy for the team because we beat BG Pathum twice and, in this game, we scored four goals. That means that the players did a very good job and I am proud of them,” he said. – Bernama Hannah relieved no reshuffle in Sports Ministry France play Spain after Australia win CHAMPIONS LEAGUE Group A: FC Copenhagen 1 (Lerager 58) Galatasaray 0, Manchester United 0 Bayern Munich 1 (Coman 70). P W D L F A PTS B. Munich 6 5 1 0 12 6 16 Copenhagen 6 2 2 2 8 8 8 Galatasaray 6 1 2 3 10 13 5 Man United 6 1 1 4 12 15 4 Group B: Lens 2 (Frankowski 63-pen, Fulgini 90+6) Sevilla 1 (Ramos 79-pen), PSV Eindhoven 1 (Vertessen 50) Arsenal 1 (Nketiah 42). P W D L F A PTS Arsenal 6 4 1 1 16 4 13 PSV 6 2 3 1 8 10 9 Lens 6 2 2 2 6 11 8 Sevilla 6 0 2 4 7 12 2 Group C: Union Berlin 2 (Volland 45+1, Kral 85) Real Madrid 3 (Joselu 61, 72, Ceballos 89), Napoli 2 (Saatci 9-o.g., Osimhen 33) Sporting Braga 0. P W D L F A PTS Real Madrid 6 6 0 0 16 7 18 Napoli 6 3 1 2 10 9 10 Braga 6 1 1 4 6 12 4 Union Berlin 6 0 2 4 6 10 2 Group D: Salzburg 1 (Susic 57) Benfica 3 (Di Maria 32, Rafa 45+1, Cabral 90+2), Inter Milan 0 Real Sociedad 0. P W D L F A PTS Sociedad 6 3 3 0 7 2 12 Inter Milan 6 3 3 0 8 5 12 Benfica 6 1 1 4 7 11 4 Salzburg 6 1 1 4 4 8 4 QUALIFIED to round of 16 EUROPA LEAGUE FIFA CLUB WORLD CUP Al Ittihad 3 (Romarinho 29, Kante 34, Benzema 40) Auckland City 0. ENGLISH CHAMPIONSHIP Blackburn Rovers 2 Bristol City 1, Huddersfield Town 1 Preston North End 3, Rotherham United 0 West Bromwich Albion 2, Stoke City 1 Swansea City 1, Watford 1 Ipswich Town 2, Sunderland 1 Leed United 0. RESULTS & STANDINGS Thai team coach blames VAR for defeat YOUTH AND SPORTS Minister Hannah Yeoh (pix) is relieved with the continued trust to remain heading the Youth and Sports Ministry (KBS). Hannah said the relief was because she and her deputy, Adam Adli Abd Halim continued to be given the opportunity to lead KBS after a Cabinet reshuffle which became a hot topic in the last few months. She said 2024 is an important year for youth and sports with the Rakan Muda programme and the 2024 Paris Olympics becoming the main focus of KBS. “Felt relief as the people have been talking about a Cabinet reshuffle for months, now we can move on and continue with our work,” she said when met at the appreciation ceremony for the national squad for being crowned champion of the 2023 World Amateur Golfers Championship at Kuala Lumpur Golf and Country Club yesterday. Hannah said she will introduce new programmes and would empower the existing programmes apart from ensuring the sport incentives under KBS. Meanwhile, commenting on her request that Badminton Asociation of Malaysia (BAM) president Tan Sri Mohamad Norza Zakaria reconsidered his decision to resign from the post by the end of this year, Hannah said this is because of the synergy built in the Road to Gold (RTG) programme. Hannah, who is the co-chairman of RTG apart from Mohamad Norza, said the figure’s involvement in RTG as BAM president had a positive impact in badminton which formed the majority of athletes in the programme aiming for Malaysia’s first Olympic gold. “I believe that if there is a new leadership there will be no problem, just the synergy (that has been built) because we are only a few months away (Paris 2024) that’s why I, as cochairman, asked him to reconsider his decision,” said Hannah. According to Hannah, she did not want to interfere in BAM’s administration, and instead left it to Mohamad Norza and BAM to discuss and make a decision about her request. – Bernama JDT’s Arif Aiman Hanapi in action against BG Pathum United’s Ryhan Stewart (right) during their Asian Champions League match. – 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: [email protected] • Tel (Advertising): 03-7784 8888 Fax: 03-7784 4424 Email: [email protected] THURSDAY | DEC 14, 2023 SCAN ME ERIK TEN HAG told his Manchester United players to make sure they get straight back into the Champions League next season after a dismal European campaign ended in an early exit at the hands of Bayern Munich yesterday. Kingsley Coman’s 70th-minute goal, laid on by Harry Kane, gave the Germans a 1-0 win and ensured United finished bottom of Group A – beaten to second place by FC Copenhagen, operating on a fraction of their budget, and to third and the consolation of Europa League football by Galatasaray. The final whistle was greeted with boos at Old Trafford, where United lost for the seventh time this season – having now lost more games in all competitions, 12, than they have won, 11. Ten Hag’s side are out of Europe, out of the League Cup, and sixth in the Premier League going into Sunday’s (Mon 12.30am Malaysian time) visit to leaders Liverpool. Defeat also came at a cost, with both Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw picking up injuries before halftime. “There are still many things to play for now, we can focus on the Premier League,” Ten Hag said. “This is the level we want to play, the Champions League, so we have to give every effort to get into the top four so next year we are back in the Champions League – and of course there is the FA Cup so there are still many things to play for.” Ten Hag accepts he has to make the team better but he also called on the players to shoulder more responsibility. “We know we want to be more consistent; me as a manager I have to improve the team and guide them and the players have to take the responsibility,” he told TNT Sports. In a match they needed to win, United mustered only one shot on target, a Shaw effort that never really troubled Manuel Neuer. A much better chance fell to Bruno Fernandes early in the second half but the captain blazed over. Bayern, already assured of top spot in the group, barely needed to get out of second gear but Ten Hag insisted his side performed well. “I think the game was like this, both sides had less chances but I think there was a good intensity from our side,” the Dutchman said. “We brought Bayern out of their rhythm, the defending organisation we did quite well if not very well, especially the first part of second half. Also we had a very good chance from Bruno, so we had our moments but didn’t take them.” Asked whether he looked back on the European campaign with regret he added: “Not with regret. We want to be in it and the target was always to be in it over winter. We didn’t make it and we have to accept it and learn from it.” Bayern boss Thomas Tuchel, who bounced back from Saturday’s 5-1 humbling away to Eintracht Frankfurt, admitted he had expected United to progress from Group A and had sympathy for Ten Hag’s position – pointing to United’s long list of absentees. “I think you could see it’s not an easy time for them. I’m pretty sure he knows what to do next, how to influence his team and he doesn’t need any advice from me,” Tuchel said. “He is experienced enough to go through it.” Kane set up Coman’s goal with a perfectly placed pass with the outside of his boot and the man United coveted for so long was a constant menace as he linked up Bayern’s attacking play and sent a late header narrowly wide. “Harry is a difference maker, 100%,” Tuchel said of the England captain. “His personality, his calmness. “The team knows anything can happen any minute with Harry up front. He can always assist, he can always score.” – The Independent 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 MUst do better Ten Hag demands Champions League return after Devils crash out █ BY IAN PARKER Man United’s Alejandro Garnacho (right) and Bayern Munich’s Konrad Laimer vie for the ball during the Champions League Group A match at Old Trafford yesterday. – AFPPIX -Story on page 2 -Story on page 2 -Story on page 29 Former Ankaragucu president arrested JDT sink BG Pathum 4-1 Napoli end home hoodoo Story on page 31 Story on page 30