The Sun - 08 March 2024

Malaysian Paper www.thesun.my RM1.00 PER COPY RM1 FRIDAY MAR 8, 2024 SCAN ME No. 8475 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195) TERRIFYING TOYS ... A passer-by throws a guarded glance at almost lifesize plush tigers put up for sale by a roadside trader in Jalan Kuala Selangor. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN ‘Live within means to avoid going bankrupt’ Statistics for December 2023 highlight worrisome trend that bankruptcy among youths now linked to car loans as well, says Credit Counselling and Debt Management Agency chief. Gender gap remains wide in country Malaysian Employers Federation urges government and private sector to address challenges faced by women across most industries and occupations. Influencer industry, gig jobs appeal to youths While pursuing professional careers used to be preferred, 2022 statistics show 72.1% of SPM holders have no plans for further studies, aspiring instead to be social media content creators, e-hailing drivers and food delivery riders: Expert Report on — page 4 Report on — page 6 Report on — page 2 Thumbs up humbs up to Anwar o Anwar China expresses appreciation over prime minister’s recent remarks decrying growing China-phobia among US and its allies. Report on — page 3

FRIDAY | MAR 8, 2024 2 Help boost Malaysia-Thai ties, media told HAT YAI: The Raja Muda of Perlis Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra Jamalullail has called on the main media agencies of Thailand and Malaysia to collaborate closely to strengthen bilateral relations, particularly in the areas of security, economy and tourism. He emphasised the crucial role of the media in enhancing g ove r n m e nt- to - g ove r n m e nt, business-to-business and peopleto-people relationships. “I hope the enduring relationship between Thailand and Malaysia, nurtured over the years, will be sustained. And with the assistance of the media, I look forward to enhanced collaboration in the future, particularly in the economic and tourism sectors, fostering stronger ties between the southern region of Thailand and Perlis.” Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra was speaking at the inauguration of the Malaysia-Southern Thailand Media and Tourism Day on Wednesday night, which was also attended by the Raja Puan Muda of Perlis Tuanku Dr Hajah Lailatul Shahreen Akashah Khalil. The March 5 to 6 event was held in collaboration with the Perlis Journalists Association, Southern Thailand Media Association, Halal Trade and Tourism Association of Thailand-Southeast Asia and the Kebangkitan Nusantara Sejahtera Secretariat. – Bernama Beijing lauds Anwar’s ‘China-phobia’ stance KUALA LUMPUR: China appreciates Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s stance on “China-phobia” among the US and its allies, said Minister at the Chinese Embassy in Malaysia Zheng Xuefang. He said Anwar’s remarks reflects the wish of developing countries to pursue independence and development. “We note with appreciation the remarks by Prime Minister Anwar recently, which decried “Chinaphobia” among US and western allies and upheld Malaysia-China friendship. “The development of China is an opportunity for the world rather than a threat to anyone,” he said in a meeting with Bernama chairman Datuk Seri Wong Chun Wai, during a courtesy visit to the national news agency on Wednesday. Zheng said Malaysia is a friendly neighbour to China and it would continue to work with Malaysia to elevate bilateral relations to a new level. In an interview with Financial oChinese diplomat hails PM’s recent remarks upholding bilateral friendship, regards Malaysia as ‘friendly neighbour’ and pledges elevation of bilateral relations COMMON ROOTS ... Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and his wife Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail greeting Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong at the Australian National University in Canberra yesterday. – AFPPIC Only 16 ‘sick’ projects out of 746, says deputy minister GEORGE TOWN: Deputy Works Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan has revealed that among the 746 projects nationwide under the ministry, only 16 have been categorised as “sick projects” due to construction delays by contractors. He said the primary factors contributing to the delays include financial issues faced by contractors, impact of Covid-19, material shortages and problems in appointing subcontractors. “These ailing projects are often highlighted, but their percentage is minimal – only 16 or 2.14% out of the total 746 projects. Based on last month’s report, the percentage was 2.88%, but it has decreased to 2.14% this month. “This clearly indicates that the Public Works Department (PWD) has demonstrated exceptional efficiency in carrying out its responsibilities and successfully completing these projects,“ he said yesterday. Ahmad was speaking after visiting the upgrading and maintenance site of the Penang High Court project. The upgrading works on the 119-yearold two-storey heritage building, costing RM17.9 million, commenced on Dec 1, 2021 and are expected to be completed by July 13 this year, Bernama reported. The building, which was previously reported to have several major issues such as roof leaks, termite damage, humidity problem, fungal growth and water stains at various sections, is now undergoing comprehensive restoration. Ahmad added that projects overseen by PWD extend beyond construction of buildings, and encompass construction and upgrading of bridges, highways, roads and slopes. He said apart from ongoing projects, PWD has an additional 2,100 projects in planning stages nationwide, including initiatives from other ministries. Indian Community Action Plan to be reviewed KUALA LUMPUR: The government will review the implementation of the Indian Community Action Plan aimed at empowering the community, in line with the Madani Economic framework to eradicate hardcore poverty among all races. The National Unity Ministry will hold engagement sessions with various stakeholders, including the focus group, to discuss the matter this month. “The ministry, through the Malaysian Indian Transformation Unit (Mitra) is committed to improving the socio-economic development of the Indian community through various initiatives and programmes to uplift the community, including in the education, economic and social fields. “Skills improvement programmes, human capital development and entrepreneurship opportunities will also be made available to improve the living standards of low-income Indian households,” said the ministry in a written reply published on the Parliament website. It was in response to a question from Syahredzan Johan (PH-Bangi), who wanted to know Mitra’s short, medium and long-term plans to develop the socioeconomy of the Indian community. The ministry said in a statement issued yesterday that a survey would be conducted from today until March 18 to understand the challenges faced by the Indian community. These include access to quality education, employment opportunities and social welfare programmes. The survey, to be carried out by Mitra, will be a platform to plan the direction of socio-economic development programmes for the Indian community. “The ministry welcomes the participation of the Malaysian Indian community to provide feedback.” More information about the survey can be obtained on the ministry’s official website or by contacting the Mitra office at 03-8886 6221. – Bernama Times last month, and again during his official visit to Australia this week, Anwar stressed that Malaysia would not be dictated to by any country over its relations with China. “We are fiercely independent,” he added. Anwar also decried the growing “China-phobia” sentiment among western nations. Zheng also said China would work closely with Malaysia to support it in playing a greater role in Asean and international affairs, and push Asean-China relations as well as the East Asia cooperation to new heights. Malaysia will assume the Asean chairmanship next year while it will take over as Asean-China coordinator in July. Zheng said China also supports the idea of the Asian Monetary Fund as well as the Asean-ChinaGulf Cooperation Council trilateral summit initiative proposed by Anwar. “We hope that Malaysia could work with all parties within Asean actively and work for the early implementation of relevant initiatives.” On another matter, Zheng said China and Malaysia are working towards a reciprocal permanent visa-free policy. “The introduction of reciprocal visa waivers between China and Malaysia has helped to promote tourism and people-to-people exchanges.” In December, the Malaysian and Chinese governments announced the implementation of mutual visa-free facilities for citizens of both countries for one year to further promote tourism, trade and cultural exchanges. Malaysia has become a hotspot for Chinese tourists for years, Bernama reported. Zheng also highlighted the achievement of economic and trade cooperation between both countries, noting that at the beginning of diplomatic relations, the total bilateral trade volume was only US$200 million (RM940 million). In 2002, the amount exceeded US$10 billion (RM47 billion), and last year, it reached US$190.24 billion (RM895 billion), making China Malaysia’s largest trading partner for 15 consecutive years. This year marks the 50th anniversary of Malaysia-China bilateral diplomatic relations and Malaysia-China Friendship Year.

FRIDAY | MAR 8, 2024 3 Felda needs clear direction: AG Report KUALA LUMPUR: The Federal Land Development Authority (Felda) must establish a clear and new direction to ensure it can continue to operate with strong financial performance without relying heavily on assistance and support from the federal government. This was recommended by the AuditorGeneral’s Report on the financial statements of federal agencies in Parliament to ensure Felda’s sustainability and viability. The agency was also advised to improve its monitoring of subsidiary companies’ operations and financial performance, which would enable Felda to provide favourable returns. According to the report, the financial statements for 2022 indicate that Felda incurred a net loss of RM1.005 billion, and its cash and cash equivalents amounted to RM0.808 billion. “Felda has significant commitments amounting to RM1.561 billion, including RM0.753 billion for replanting liabilities and RM0.808 billion for unspent federal government grants,” according to the report. Based on the same financial statements, Felda’s outstanding loans from external institutions amounted to RM8.659 billion, aimed at restructuring its loans from 2018 to 2022, while at the Felda Group level, total loans from the government and financial institutions reached RM15.117 billion. In its feedback, Felda highlighted the establishment of a special task force to develop a recovery plan to ensure its continued presence in the industry. – Bernama Plan for more tahfiz TVET courses KUALA LUMPUR: Majlis Amanah Rakyat (Mara) plans to expand the Tahfiz Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programme by increasing the number of short-term lifelong learning courses to meet the market needs of several technical sectors in the country. It said the programme includes the fields of electricity, automotive, fashion design, digital media, furniture, air-conditioning, scaffolding, interior decoration, bricklaying, as well as printing and advertising. “GiatMara will increase the Tahfiz TVET programme, which is carried out under the GiatMara Vocational Technical Hub concept.” Mara said Universiti Kuala Lumpur is working with the Darul Quran of the Islamic Development Department to recognise the “Hufaz Profesional Ulul Albab” students through the accreditation of Tahfiz certificate, as well as to send students to leading Islamic universities through a short-term student mobility programme. – Bernama School repair project 98% completed KUALA LUMPUR: As of Feb 29, a total of 7,852 or 97.8% of toilet maintenance and minor repair projects in schools and educational institutions under the Education Ministry have been successfully concluded. In a written response published on Parliament’s website, the ministry said the projects carried out under the special allocation for the Upgrading and Minor Maintenance of Educational Institutions for the Year 2023 amounted to RM654.29 million, involving 8,354 schools and educational institutions. “The initiative covered 8,306 government schools and 48 educational institutions (matriculation colleges, Institut Aminuddin Baki and Institut Pendidikan Guru), with an allocation of RM70,000 for each government school and RM200,000 for each educational institution,” it said. – Bernama Govt to ensure compliance to shisha rules CYBERJAYA:The Health Ministry will engage in a collaborative sessions with shisha business associations to ensure compliance with regulations, preventing the provision of these services in prohibited areas, including dining establishments. Health Deputy Director-General (Public Health) Datuk Dr Norhayati Rusli said the ministry will also hold discussions with the Sepang Municipal Council to consider additional actions against shisha operators within its jurisdiction in an effort to regulate such activities. The ministry will also continue follow-up monitoring to ensure shisha operators understand and comply with the Control of Tobacco Product Regulations 2004 as a result of six violation notices issued to individuals smoking shisha in eateries during the Ops Tempat Makan in Selangor on March 5 and March 6. Norhayati said six establishments in Cyberjaya provide shisha services, with one remaining non-compliant despite receiving three violation notices. “Continuous monitoring by the ministry is in progress to maintain control over shisha provision activities,” she said after an operation conducted in Cyberjaya on Wednesday night. Norhayati urged individuals to quit smoking, highlighting the health risks and the need to prevent complications, especially for passive smokers – those in close proximity to smokers. Commenting on whether the minimal fines contribute to continued smoking in dining places, she stressed the necessity for the ministry to enhance educational sessions, targeting not only smokers but also family members and the community. “The objective is to create an awareness that smoking, encompassing secondhand smoke, profoundly affects health, potentially resulting in complications to the lungs, heart and kidneys,” she said. On individuals using e-cigarettes in restricted zones, Norhayati said they would receive notices, and samples of the e-cigarette liquid would undergo lab testing at the Chemist Department. “If the test identifies tobacco-based nicotine in the liquid, penalties will be enforced under the Control of Tobacco Products Regulations 2004. We will persist with this sampling until the enforcement of the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024,” she said. In December last year, the Dewan Negara passed the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Bill 2023, which includes provisions prohibiting the sale and purchase of tobacco products, smoking ingredients, or tobacco substitutes, and any services related to smoking to minors. – Bernama ‘Women still getting raw deal in career growth’ PETALING JAYA: Malaysian women are still getting the wrong end of the stick in employment, board directorships, business, and other areas, despite being just as qualified as their male counterparts. In light of International Women’s Day which falls today, the Malaysian Employers Federation has called on the government and private sectors to address the challenges they face. Its president, Datuk Dr Syed Hussain Syed Husman, told theSun that as of February 2023, female participation in the labour force was 56%, compared with males at 82.9%, even though Statistics Department data in 2020 showed 56.9% of females had higher education than males (43.1%). “The 2023 Malaysia Gender Gap Index showed that women with the same experience, qualifications and job titles earned only RM66 to a man’s RM100. “On average, men earned RM63,117 annually and women RM42,080,” he said, adding that the gap persists across most industries and occupations, contributing to economic disparities between genders. Syed Hussain said women’s lower earnings impact their financial stability, with long-term consequences including reduced retirement savings, and limited access to career advancement. In leadership roles, women are underoNeed to address gender imbalances, implement strategies for female involvement in decision-making: MEF █ BYJOSHUA PURUSHOTMAN [email protected] represented in decision-making positions across sectors, including corporate boards, government and academia. “Structural barriers, gender biases, and lack of mentorship mean few women are board directors, except in the accommodation and food and beverage sector, where they had an 80% representation in 2019. But even this decreased to 30% in 2020 and 31% in 2021.” Syed Hussain called on companies and policymakers to implement strategies and policies to address gender imbalances so women can participate in decision-making at the highest levels. In terms of occupational segregation, the percentage of female and male representation in various occupational categories in 2020, 2021 and 2022 showed many sectors heavily segregated by gender. “Women were employed in lower-paying and traditionally female-dominated jobs, with fewer of them in managerial roles from 2020 to 2022, compared with males. “This disparity is reflected in income levels, with men dominating higher-paying roles, even though there are more females than males in professional positions,” he said. In political empowerment, women comprised 13.5% of parliamentarians. However, their representation in ministerial positions was only 17.9% in 2022. “The Malaysia Gender Gap Index for political empowerment in 2022 stood at 0.102, which underscores the challenges women face in participating in political leadership and decision-making positions.” Syed Hussain said 24.6% of legislators, senior officials and managers in Malaysia were women, compared with 44% in Sweden and 38% in Singapore. In workplace discrimination, harassment and violence, women frequently encounter subtle micro-aggressions to overt acts of sexism. The “Voices of Malaysian Women on Discrimination & Harassment in the Workplace” survey by the Women’s Aid Organisation in 2020, said 56% of women experienced at least one form of gender discrimination. He said the sad part is that 49% of Malaysians believe violence against women is often provoked by the victim. Women also face obstacles in accessing financial resources, venture capital and business networks, which are necessary for entrepreneurship and business ownership. In 2022, approximately 16% of the total 1,173,601 Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) were owned by women. The services sector recorded the largest share of them, making up 92.7% of all MSMEs. Syed Hussain said the MEF wants a fairer and more conducive environment for the professional and economic advancement of women, which requires the collective effort of policymakers, employers and individuals. “Policymakers are crucial to enacting and enforcing gender-responsive policies that address systemic barriers to women’s advancement. This includes relevant legislation promoting equal pay, non-discrimination in hiring and promotion, and access to education and training opportunities,” he said. FUN MEMENTOS ... A participant selling souvenirs at the Permata Remaja Entrepreneurship Carnival at the Sri Pantai People’s Housing Project in Kuala Lumpur yesterday. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ /THESUN

FRIDAY | MAR 8, 2024 4 PETALING JAYA: The Credit Counselling and Debt Management Agency (CCDMA) has urged the public to control their spending habits before they face bankruptcy. Its chairman Anuar Mohd Hassan said statistics for December 2023 showed a cumulative total of 29,367 bankrupts who sought help from the agency to manage their hire purchase (HP) loans. “This highlights a worrisome trend that bankruptcy among youths is now also linked to car loans, which they are unable to repay.” He said Selangor had 8,170 HP-linked bankrupts seeking help from CCDMA, followed by Kuala Lumpur with 2,513, Johor with 2,685, Malacca with 942, Putrajaya with 216, Perlis with 242 and Labuan with 81. “This indicates the importance of our services in addressing financial distress among bankrupts in the country,” he said, adding that of those seeking help, 9% were unemployed, 27% self-employed, 61% employed and 3% were retirees. Anuar said the escalating cost of living, business failure, retrenchment and loss of income were among the causes of debtors not servicing their loans and becoming bankrupt. He said the primary driver for youth bankruptcy is the allure of an extravagant lifestyle fueled by peer pressure and societal expectations, adding that the pervasive mantra of “you only live once” often leads young individuals to prioritise immediate gratification over long-term financial stability. He also said excessive spending on non-essential items such as the latest electronic gadgets or designer clothing quickly outpaces income, pushing youths into a cycle of debt and financial distress. “Many youths may already be burdened with significant debt from student loans or credit cards. Taking on additional debts through car loans will worsen their financial situation if they are unable to make repayments. “Some face challenges in finding stable employment or may be working in low-wage jobs. Fluctuating incomes or job losses could also make it hard to keep up with debts, leading to financial distress and bankruptcy.” He said the financial challenges faced by youth raise broader questions about their financial literacy, adding that with easy credit, including pre-approved car loans and financing options, young adults are tempted to take on debt without fully understanding its consequences. Anuar said this leads to overspending and financial instability in the long run, thus recognising the signs of financial distress is crucial to addressing potential bankruptcy. “Debtors need to be cautious of the warning signs, including tight cash flow, heavy reliance on credit cards or borrowings to cover expenses and delinquency in debt repayment.” He said addressing bankruptcies due to HP loans requires a concerted effort to tackle the underlying causes such as the rising cost of living and financial illiteracy, adding that teaching young adults about budgeting, saving and responsible credit management can empower them to make sound financial decisions. “Fostering a culture of financial discipline and resilience is essential for long-term financial health. Those already facing financial difficulties should acknowledge the problem and seek assistance.” He also said by admitting their financial challenges, debtors can take proactive steps towards financial recovery, adding that increasing income through higher-paying jobs or freelancing can alleviate financial strain. He said it is crucial to advocate early financial education in schools as this is important to equip future generations with essential money management skills. “By integrating financial literacy into the curriculum and providing practical exercises, young adults can develop healthy money habits from an early age to set them on the right path to financial success.” MACC to adopt various plans to fight graft PUTRAJAYA: The National Governance Planning Division (NGPD) of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) is prepared to undertake the responsibility of coordinating various plans under the 2024-2028 National Anti-Corruption Strategy (NACS), which will be launched in the middle of this year. NACS, which focuses on the prevention of corruption and improving governance as well as integrity in the administration of public services and government-related companies, will be implemented to replace the 2019-2023 National Anti-Corruption Plan (NACP) 2019-2023, which ended last year. NGPD director Datuk Abd Aziz Aban said the division continues to monitor 111 initiatives under NACP, with 85 initiatives (77%) completed. He said the remaining could not be completed as they require more discussion or engagement because they involve new laws, adding that the Covid-19 outbreak and the changes in the government during the period were also contributing factors. Abd Aziz said among the achievements of NACP was the drafting of a Bill that led to the establishment of the National Anti-Financial Crime Centre and the formulation of 45 new regulations or circulars and 23 amendments of regulations or circulars. NGPD was established on April 18 last year and absorbed into MACC following the dissolution of the National Governance, Integrity and Anti-Corruption Centre, which was previously under the Prime Minister’s Office. He said this is in line with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s Directive No. 1 of 2018, Series 2, No. 1 of 2019 on the Implementation of the NACP, which outlines the parameters of governance, integrity and anti-corruption covering six national priority sectors. The six sectors are political governance, public sector administration, public procurement, legislation and judiciary, law enforcement and corporate governance. Abd Aziz said the proposed strategies and reforms that is to be drafted in NACS is expected to have a significant impact, which may result in the eradication of corruption in the country. “Indirectly, these suggestions and ideas are expected to contribute to increasing the Corruption Perception Index (CPI).” The prime minister’s Directive No. 1 of 2023, which was launched at the beginning of this year by Anwar, emphasised the need to strengthen governance to fight corruption and to ensure such activities do not occur in the administration under him. On the CPI, Abd Aziz said MACC is confident of achieving the target of being ranked 25th in the world for the next 10 years, adding that a round table discussion regarding a CPI Special Team, which was established to improve the perception index such as the terms of reference, structure and direction, was held last December. “The proposed structure and terms of reference of the CPI Special Team will be presented at the Cabinet in the first quarter of this year.“ – Bernama ‘Addiction’ to luxury snares youth in debt oMany go bankrupt due to impetuous mindset that prioritises immediate gratification over financial stability Ten-day water cut in parts of Kota Kinabalu, Penampang KOTA KINABALU: Water supply to several areas in Kota Kinabalu and Penampang will be disrupted for 10 days beginning yesterday due to reduced output from the Moyog water treatment plant. The Sabah Water Supply Department said treated water production would be reduced from 189 million litres daily to 187 million litres, following replacement works at the plant. “The affected areas will experience water supply disruption and restoration will be done in stages. Consumers in the affected areas are advised to store enough water and to use water prudently.” The areas include the Kota Kinabalu International Airport, Kota Kinabalu City Centre, Kepayan, Tanjung Aru, Sembulan, Karamunsing, Signal Hill, Likas, Tanjung Lipat, Inanam, Kolombong, Luyang, Putatan and Bukit Padang. The affected areas in Penampang are Penampang town, Kadazan Dusun Cultural Association Culture Centre in Donggongon, Jalan Penampang Baru and Jalan Penampang-Papar Lama. – Bernama █ BYSIVANISVARRY MORHAN [email protected] PREPPING UP ... Nurul Lina Abdul Rahman (second left) helping her daughters (from left) Nur Hadhinah Safiyya Mohd Farez Nazwan, Nur Izara Aisyah Safiyya and Nur Khadeeja Safiyya get ready for first day of school on Monday at their home in Kampung Permatang Sungai Dua, Penang. – MASRY CHE ANI/THESUN

FRIDAY | MAR 8, 2024 | 5

FRIDAY | MAR 8, 2024 6 PUTRAJAYA: The Court of Appeal yesterday reduced a former bus driver’s prison sentence of 70 months to 60 months for dangerous driving and causing the death of a motorcyclist three years ago. A panel of three judges led by Datuk Vazeer Alam Mydin Meera unanimously allowed the appeal by Ishak Mat Nawi, 54, to reduce the prison sentence and a fine of RM20,000, in default 12 months jail, imposed by the Kuala Kubu Bharu Magistrate’s Court on Sept 19, 2022. “The appeal against the sentence is allowed. Therefore, the 70-month prison sentence is reduced to 60 months from the date of arrest (Dec 12, 2021). “As for the 12-month prison sentence in default of fine payment, it will be reduced to three months,” said Vazeer Alam, who sat with judges Datuk Ahmad Zaidi Ibrahim and Datuk S.M. Komathy Suppiah. The proceedings were attended by lawyer Izleen Ismail, representing Ishak, and DPP Aida Khairuleen Azli. Ishak was charged with driving a bus in a reckless manner that endangered the public and caused the death of Muhamad Yazid Ab Aziz, 39, at Km59 of Jalan Kuala Lumpur-Kuala Lipis in Hulu Selangor at 5.45pm on Dec 12, 2021. He was charged under Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987, which provides imprisonment of up to 10 years and a maximum fine of RM50,000. He pleaded guilty. – Bernama Youths drawn to allure of content creator career oExperts weigh in on benefits, drawbacks of ‘glamorous’ online jobs compared with traditional professions PETALING JAYA: Young Malaysians today seem more keen on careers as social media influencers, e-hailing drivers and food delivery riders rather than jobs as professionals, said Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Career Advancement Centre deputy director Dr Wardah Mustafa Din. She said while there is no harm in becoming influencers, students should be educated on the ethics of producing knowledge-based content to be taken seriously in terms of career development. “Pursuing professional careers used to be the focus, but 2022 statistics showed that 72.1% of SPM certificate holders have no plans to further their studies.” Wardah said although the trend of wanting to become influencers rather than pursue professional careers is worrying, it is also inevitable since content is already accessible and being watched by students who are attracted by the money to be made. “Social media modules and programmes should be included in formal education so that students have the right skill sets to become gig workers, which includes influencers.” She also said from a career development perspective, exposing primary school pupils to jobs and careers could spark their curiosity and ensure they approach education seriously. “Apart from that, students can be exposed to gig or alternative income generation through online and gaming platforms to provide them with the experience of earning money even before they complete their schooling.” Wardah said some students are already engaged in online trading using social media currencies and are avid followers of YouTubers, livestream gamers and celebrities. “These influencers show off their popularity and wealth to millions of followers who are swayed to follow in their footsteps to gain (fame) and wealth.” She added that exposure to these sectors presents both benefits and drawbacks for schoolchildren and while it may introduce them to non-traditional career paths, it could Court grants bus driver reduced prison sentence Man held over offensive FB post KANGAR: A crab seller has been arrested in connection with an offensive Facebook post against the Raja of Perlis. Kangar district police chief ACP Yusharifuddin Mohd Yusop said the 41-year-old trader was arrested at Taman Akasia 2, Changlun in Kedah at 1.30am yesterday following a police report lodged by a 37-year-old man on Wednesday. Kangar Magistrate Ana Rozana Mohd Nor yesterday issued a three-day remand order against the crab seller. “This case will be investigated under Section 4(1) of the Sedition Act 1948 and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998,” he said in a statement. – Bernama SHOW OF ARMS ... South Korean ambassador to Malaysia Yeo Seung Bae being briefed on weaponry aboard the ROKS Yang Man-Chun during a port call at the Port Klang Cruise Terminal yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC Appeal filed against Isa Samad acquittal KUALA LUMPUR: The prosecution has filed an appeal in the Federal Court against the Court of Appeal decision to acquit former Felda chairman Tan Sri Mohd Isa Abdul Samad of all nine corruption charges involving RM3 million over the agency’s purchase of Merdeka Palace Hotel & Suites in Kuching, Sarawak. Attorney-general Datuk Ahmad Terrirudin Mohd Salleh said the appeal was filed yesterday. On Wednesday, a three-judge panel led by Datuk Vazeer Alam Mydin Meera unanimously overturned the conviction, six-year prison sentence and fine of RM15.45 million imposed by the High Court on Feb 3, 2021, after allowing an appeal by the former Negeri Sembilan menteri besar. In his judgment, Judge Vazeer Alam said there was no reliable evidence to show that there was an understanding between Mohd Isa and his former special political officer Muhammad Zahid Md Arip over the use of the code word “salam” to mean a request for funds. Sitting with Vazeer Alam were judges Datuk Ahmad Zaidi Ibrahim and Datuk S.M. Komathy Suppiah. Mohd Isa, 74, was charged in 2018 with nine counts of dishonestly receiving gratification totalling RM3,090,000 from Ikhwan Zaidel, who is a board member of Gegasan Abadi Properties Sdn Bhd. The money was received through Muhammad Zahid as inducement to approve the purchase of the hotel by Felda Investment Corporation Sdn Bhd for RM160 million. The offence was committed on the 49th floor of Menara Felda, Platinum Park, No. 11 Persiaran KLCC in Kuala Lumpur between July 21, 2014 and Dec 11, 2015. The charges were framed under Section 16(a)(A) of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission Act 2009, punishable under Section 24(1) of the same law, which provides a jail term not exceeding 20 years and a fine of at least five times the bribe amount or RM10,000, whichever is higher. – Bernama also promote unrealistic expectations. She said although there are positive impacts from students learning valuable skills in money management and income generation, parents need to monitor and guide them. “As a point of reference, social media influencers in Malaysia can generate incomes from RM5,000 to RM10,000 for a single post on social media. This is viewed as a pathway to attain wealth and popularity and is often seen as an express ticket to success.” UiTM communication and media studies lecturer Nurul Aishah Ab Raman said although becoming an influencer may appear appealing, it is not “the” profession one should go for without having a good educational background. “The overnight success of some of these influencers makes a big impression on younger generations who are misled into believing that such ‘success’ is definitive and easily attained. “However, it is essential to educate them on the potential drawbacks and challenges associated with such pursuits. The ‘influencer industry’ is highly competitive and saturated, with only a small percentage of individuals achieving significant success and (sustainability) in the field,” said Nurul Aishah. Wardah said aspiring to become an influencer is still a relevant career choice, adding: “Learning might be difficult now but it will certainly open doors to possibilities.” Villagers moved to relief centre after fire TAWAU: A total of 286 people from 81 families were evacuated to a relief centre at the Tawau Sports Complex yesterday morning following a fire in Kampung Tanjung Batu Laut Logpond on Wednesday. The Sabah Disaster Management Committee secretariat said another relief centre has been opened at Dewan OT Mohd Jantan Tanjung Batu Darat to cater to the evacuees. “The two relief centres were opened in anticipation of an increase in evacuees.” About 45 houses were destroyed in the fire. – Bernama █ BYQIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI [email protected]

FRIDAY | MAR 8, 2024 7 HK judges dismiss appeal in sedition case oSay intention to incite violence not a necessary element of the offence HONG KONG: Three High Court judges here yesterday rejected an appeal by prominent prodemocracy activist Tam Tak-chi against his conviction and 40 month sentence for 11 sedition charges that his lawyer had argued was a disproportionate restriction on freedom of speech. In dismissing Tam’s appeal, High Court judges Jeremy Poon, Derek Pang and Anthea Pang said sedition is a statutory offence and intention to incite violence is not a necessary element of the offence. “The submission that the exercise of the right of assembly should qualify as a mitigating factor in the present case ignores the fact that the applicant was being punished for the very act of inciting others to participate in, or holding, an unauthorised assembly, which is an illegal act going outside the permissible scope of the right,” the judges wrote. Tam, 51, a leader of the nowdisbanded People Power party and a former radio host and DJ known as “Fast Beat”, was the first Hong Kong person tried on a sedition charge since the city’s handover from British to Chinese rule in 1997. Tam was sentenced to 40 months in 2022 by District Court Judge Stanley Chan over 11 charges that included uttering seditious words, public disorder and incitement to take part in an unauthorised assembly. This case comes as Hong Kong authorities prepare to release a China vows to legitimately defend its rights BEIJING: China will “legitimately defend” its rights in the South China Sea, its foreign minister said yesterday, following a string of incidents between Chinese and Philippine ships. China claims almost the entire South China Sea and has sought to assert sovereignty there despite competing claims from Southeast Asian nations and an international arbitration ruling that its stance has no legal basis. Tensions between Beijing and the Philippines have flared in recent months as ships from both countries have been involved in incidents near contested reefs. “We will legitimately defend our rights in accordance with the law,” Foreign Minister Wang Yi said at a press conference yesterday. “On maritime disputes, China has always maintained a high degree of restraint,” he said. “But of course, we do not allow our goodwill to be abused, and we do not accept the distortion or deliberate infringement of maritime laws.” On Tuesday, Manila summoned a Chinese representative after it said China Coast Guard vessels caused two collisions with Philippine boats and fired water cannon at one of them during a resupply mission. Beijing said it “took control measures” against “illegal intrusion”, and accused a Philippine vessel of “intentionally” ramming a Chinese ship. On Wednesday, China’s Foreign Ministry accused the United States of using its ally Manila as a “pawn” to stir up regional tensions after Washington labelled Beijing’s actions “provocative”. Wang did not mention the US by name yesterday, but urged “certain countries outside the region not to stir up trouble in the South China Sea”. – AFP 900 luxury watches ‘go missing’ in Japan B R I E F SN. KOREA LEADER FIRES UP HIS TROOPS SEOUL: North Korean leader Kim Jong Un brandished a gun at a key training base, urging his military to intensify war drills. Wearing a black leather jacket, Kim was shown talking to heavily armed soldiers, overseeing firing drills and inspecting weaponry, images in the Korean Central News Agency showed. During his visit to the base in the country’s western region, Kim told the army to “steadily intensify the war drills”. His visit comes as Seoul and Washington hold spring military exercises, known as “Freedom Shield”, which involve field exercises, missile interception drills and live firing. Pyongyang called the drills “reckless”, warning the allies will pay a “dear price”. – AFP AUSTRALIA, VIETNAM UPGRADE RELATIONS SYDNEY: Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said yesterday the country was raising ties with Vietnam to a comprehensive strategic partnership. The upgrade marks the latest success for Vietnam’s “bamboo diplomacy”, after it boosted relations last year with the world’s top powers as it tries to navigate rising global tensions. The partnership will support expanded cooperation on the environment and energy, defence and security, and economic engagement and education, a joint statement said. Both countries exchanged 12 cooperation documents on areas including energy, minerals, agriculture, banking and finance. – Reuters TOKYO: Around 900 luxury watches worth almost US$13 million (RM61 million) are missing in Japan after a site renting them out folded and its owner fled to Dubai. The owners of the Rolexes and other pricey timepieces earned monthly deposit fees by loaning them to Osakabased Toke Match, which would then rent them to customers. Neo Reverse, the company that operated Toke Match, announced on Jan 31 the termination of its service and promised it would return all watches. But the owners of around 900 watches worth US$12.6 million have not been reunited with their property, the Asahi Shimbun daily and other media reported. Some of the watches have even been spotted on an online auction site, prompting owners to file dozens of complaints to police around Japan. The auction site’s operator Valuence Japan said that at least 20 watches it handled had serial numbers matching those loaned to Toke Match. “We immediately stopped circulation of these watches,” a spokeswoman said. Half of the watches were already on the auction site before the Toke Match service was terminated. Tokyo police have obtained an arrest warrant for Toke Match’s owner Takazumi Kominato, 42, on suspicion of embezzlement of a Rolex watch, Jiji Press reported. However, Kominato flew out of Japan in late February for Dubai, and police plan to put him on the international wanted list. – AFP China Coast Guard personnel places a rubber fender during a near collision with the BRP Sindangan during a supply mission to Second Thomas Shoal. – AFPPIC proposed new set of national security laws known as Article 23 aimed at addressing what officials call loopholes in the national security regime, which was bolstered just four years ago by another national security law imposed directly by China. Among those crimes targeted are espionage, state secrets and sedition, which could see sentences substantially raised for sedition. The ruling could impact other closely watched sedition cases, including a verdict against two editors of the now shuttered liberal online media outlet Stand News, which is seen as a test case for media freedoms under the security clampdown. “Words are not spoken in vacuum and cannot be understood in abstract. They must be understood against the contemporaneous socio-cultural and political setting of society,” the judges said. “Thus, words which were innocent in the past may have become offensive now with the change in the state of society.” Last October, the UK Judicial Committee of the Privy Council ruled that it is “a requirement that there must be an intention to incite violence or disorder” for sedition offences. The Privy Council’s judgment was not binding in Hong Kong courts, although the city remains part of the common law system. The judges, however, said it wasn’t necessary for the prosecution to prove the defendant’s intention was to incite violence, and consideration must be made to “the specific legal and social landscape” in which the criminal code exists. Tam had appealed last July. He is among 31 opposition figures awaiting sentencing for another landmark national security case involving “conspiracy to subvert state power”. – Reuters

FRIDAY | MAR 8, 2024 8 /theSunMedia FOLLOW ON YOUTUBE Malaysian Paper German rail, air workers strike for higher wages BERLIN: Hundreds of thousands of passengers in Germany faced travel misery yesterday as rail and airport workers staged new strikes to back higher wage demands. Germany has been troubled by strikes for months as workers and management wrestle over terms amid high inflation and weak business activity. Industrial action has hit the transport sector, supermarkets and the civil service. Rail workers began a 35-hour strike on freight services on Wednesday and on passenger services yesterday. The length of the strike is intended to underline a key demand of the GDL train drivers union to reduce the working week to 35 hours from 38. Rail employees have been staging strikes for months to demand a pay rise to help members manage the higher cost of living in light of inflation. A walkout by train drivers in January caused travel disruption for thousands of passengers over several days. The more limited walkout was the start of a “wave of strikes”, GDL boss Claus Weselsky said. Future action would be announced “when we think the time is right” and no longer 48 hours in advance as has been the case in the past, Weselsky said. “Rail is no longer a reliable means of transport,” he said. Rail operator Deutsche Bahn has condemned the walkout, saying it has made concessions amounting to a 13% pay increase. Lufthansa ground staff will hold a nationwide strike till Saturday. Security staff at Frankfurt and Hamburg airports also led a oneday walkout. Frankfurt, Germany’s biggest aviation hub, would see “major disruptions and flight cancellations throughout the day”, the airport said. The airport would be closed to all outbound passengers. The Lufthansa strike is expected to cause further disruption to the airline’s services at other airports. The Verdi union is seeking pay rises of 12.5% for workers, a minimum of 500 euros (RM2,553) more a month. Lufthansa has offered pay increases over an extended period but not enough to meet Verdi’s demands. – AFP Beijing to submit draft UN resolution on AI BEIJING: China will submit a draft resolution to the United Nations calling for stronger international cooperation on artificial intelligence (AI). The rapid development of AI has become a topic of global concern, turbocharged by the 2022 launch of ChatGPT, a generative program by the USbased OpenAI that can pen stories, create pictures, write computer code and more from simple text prompts. It has triggered a craze for other generative products – including many in China – but has also fostered anxiety around the world over the technology’s potential for abuse. Speaking during a press conference at China’s Two Sessions legislative meetings yesterday, Foreign Minister Wang Yi said Beijing would introduce a draft resolution on “strengthening international cooperation in artificial intelligence capacity building” to the UN General Assembly. He did not disclose specific information about the resolution’s contents nor say when the submission would occur. The move would “push all parties to strengthen the sharing of technology and strive to bridge the intelligence gap so that no country will be left behind”, Wang said. “Artificial intelligence has entered a critical stage of explosive development. Our proposition is to pay equal attention to development and security. “We must not only embrace new things and opportunities, but also install brakes.” – AFP Global peace comes first for China BEIJING: China will be a global force for peace and stability, its Foreign Minister Wang Yi said yesterday in a press conference where he hit out against US “suppression” and expressed support for Palestinians. oForeign minister hits out against US suppression “In the face of complex turmoil in the international environment, China will persist in being a force for peace, a force for stability, and a force for progress in the world,” Wang said. Wang met the press on the sidelines of China’s largest annual political gathering. The “Two Sessions” – parallel meetings of China’s parliament and political consultative body – offer a rare glimpse into the strategy of the Communist Party-led government for the year ahead. China’s expanding political reach has sparked friction on multiple fronts, with Wang’s press conference coming after Southeast Asian and Australian leaders warned this week against Chinese actions that “endanger peace” in the South China Sea. He hit out at what he called efforts by Washington “to suppress China”, saying “the desire to heap blame under any pretext has reached an unbelievable level”. The top diplomat warned that people seeking independence for self-ruled Taiwan, which Beijing claims as its territory, would be “liquidated by history”. Wang reiterated China’s support for Palestinians when asked about the conflict in Gaza. Beijing has been calling for an immediate ceasefire since the start of the war in October last year. Wang defended Beijing’s close relationship with Moscow, saying that “China and Russia have set a new paradigm for major power relations that is completely different from the old Cold War era”. He said that bilateral ties rested on “the basis of non-alignment, nonconfrontation and non-targeting of third parties”. Western powers have criticised Beijing for refusing to condemn Moscow for its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. China says it is a neutral party in the Ukraine war, but its strategic partnership with Russia has grown closer since the start of the war. – AFP

FRIDAY | MAR 8, 2024 9 /thesuntelegram FOLLOW ON TELEGRAM Malaysian Paper Warning of full-scale war in Europe MOSCOW: A senior Russian military officer has warned that the conflict in Ukraine could escalate into a full-scale war in Europe and said the probability of Moscow’s forces becoming involved in a new conflict is increasing “significantly”. Col-Gen Vladimir Zarudnitsky, head of the Russian army’s Military Academy of the General Staff, made the comments in an article for Military Thought, a Russian Defence Ministry publication. “The possibility of an escalation of the conflict in Ukraine – from the expansion of participants in ‘proxy forces’ used for military confrontation with Russia to a large-scale war in Europe – cannot be ruled out,” RIA news agency reported. “The main source of military threats to our state is the anti-Russian policy of the United States and its allies, who are conducting a new type of hybrid warfare to weaken Russia, limit its sovereignty and destroy its territorial integrity. “The likelihood of our state being purposefully drawn into new military conflicts is significantly increasing.” The war in Ukraine has triggered the deepest crisis in Russia’s relations with the West since the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis and President Vladimir Putin has warned that the West risks provoking a nuclear war if it sends troops to fight in Ukraine. Putin has cast his decision to send tens of thousands of troops into Ukraine in February 2022 as a special military operation designed to secure Russia’s own security against an increasingly hostile US-backed Ukrainian leadership. Kyiv says it is defending itself against an imperial-style war of conquest designed to erase its national identity. Zarudnitsky’s comments come at a time when the West is scrambling to help Ukraine with more arms and financing after Kyiv’s failed counteroffensive last summer and after Russian forces regained the initiative on the battlefield. He advocated a number of changes in the way Russia organises its military and security, including placing greater emphasis on relying on what he called friendly countries to ensure Russia’s own security and consolidating the whole of Russian society around its defence needs. – Reuters B R I E F SISRAELI TANK FIRED MACHINE GUN AT REPORTERS BEIRUT: An Israeli tank crew killed a Reuters reporter in Lebanon in October by firing two shells at a clearly identified group of journalists and then “likely” opened fire on them with a heavy machine gun in an attack that lasted one minute and 45 seconds. The Netherlands Organisation for Applied Scientific Research, which was contracted by Reuters to analyse evidence from the Oct 13 attack that killed journalist Issam Abdallah, found that a tank 1.34km away in Israel fired two 120mm rounds at the reporters. The first shell killed Abdallah, 37, and severely wounded Agence FrancePresse photographer Christina Assi, 28. The institute revealed that audio picked up by a video camera showed the reporters also came under fire from 0.50 calibre rounds used by Browning machine guns mounted on Israel’s Merkava tanks. – Reuters EMBASSY CONFIRMS INDIAN KILLED IN UKRAINE NEW DELHI: India’s embassy in Moscow has confirmed the death of a citizen recruited by the Russian army, days after a relative said he had been sent to fight in Ukraine. The Indian Foreign Ministry said last month that it was working to secure discharges for 20 Indian nationals in the Russian army. The embassy did not state the circumstances behind Mohammed Afsan’s death but said it was in touch with his family and Russian authorities. Afsan’s brother Mohammed Imran said last month that his brother had been missing for nearly two months. Afsan had last called from the Russian city of Rostov-on-Don to say that he had been deployed to the frontlines. – AFP Push for Palestine’s full UN membership MOSCOW: China advocates for Palestine’s full membership in the United Nations and calls on several UN Security Council members not to impede the process. “China firmly supports the Palestinian people’s just calls of regaining their legitimate rights and is committed to a comprehensive, just and lasting solution to the question of Palestine at an early date. We support Palestine’s full membership in the UN and urge certain UN security members not to lay obstacles,” Wang told reporters in Beijing during the annual “Two Sessions” meeting. China’s top diplomat pointed to a longlasting “occupation” of the Palestinian territories, saying that the global community should not ignore that fact. He called Israel’s war in Gaza a “disgrace for civilisation” and reiterated Beijing’s calls for an “immediate ceasefire”. “It is a tragedy for humankind and a disgrace for civilisation that today, in the 21st century, this humanitarian disaster cannot be stopped.” Beijing has been calling for an immediate ceasefire since the start of the war in October. China has historically been sympathetic to the Palestinian cause and supportive of a twostate solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. And President Xi Jinping has called for an “international peace conference” to resolve the fighting. “No reason can justify the continuation of the conflict, and no excuse can justify being desperately killed,” Wang said. “The international community must act urgently, making an immediate ceasefire and the cessation of hostilities an overriding priority, and ensuring humanitarian relief an urgent moral responsibility.” Palestinians seek diplomatic recognition of their independent state in the territories of the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, which is partially occupied by Israel, and the Gaza Strip. The Israeli government refuses to recognise Palestine as an independent political and diplomatic entity and builds settlements in the occupied areas despite objections from the UN. Palestine was granted non-member observer state status by a 2012 UN General Assembly resolution. – Bernama/AFP Truce accord still possible CAIRO: The US said talks on a ceasefire and release of hostages in Gaza could still reach an agreement between Hamas and Israel as the enclave’s humanitarian crisis prompted South Africa to ask the World Court for new emergency measures. Negotiators from Hamas, Qatar and Egypt – but not Israel – are trying to secure a 40-day ceasefire in time for Ramadan, which begins next week. Despite speculation negotiations were at an impasse, the US said on Wednesday that a truce accord was still possible. “We continue to believe that obstacles are not insurmountable and a deal can be reached ... so we’re going to continue to push for one,” US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said in Washington. But South Africa, which in January brought a case at the World Court in The Hague accusing Israel of genocide in Gaza, on Wednesday asked the court to order new emergency measures including a stop to hostilities because Palestinian civilians were facing starvation. “The threat of all-out famine has now materialised. The court needs to act now to Palestinians stand amid the rubble of houses destroyed by Israeli bombardment in Khan Younis. – AFPPIC oSouth Africa again asks World Court to intervene stop the imminent tragedy,” the South African presidency said in a statement. The Gaza Health Ministry said two Palestinians, aged 15 and 72, died of dehydration and malnutrition in Al Shifa and Kamal Adwan hospitals on Wednesday, raising the toll of such deaths in just over a week to 20. Fears were also mounting that the Gaza conflict could spread in the Middle East, especially after a series of attacks on vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden by Iran-aligned Houthi forces acting in solidarity with the Palestinians. In the latest strike, at least three sailors were killed in a Houthi attack on a Greekowned freighter, US military officials said, the first deaths reported since the Yemeni group began the strikes against shipping in one of the world’s busiest sea lanes. The US State Department said it would continue to hold the Houthis accountable for such attacks. Hamas pledged to continue the Cairo talks, but officials in the Palestinian militant group said a ceasefire must be in place before hostages are freed, Israeli forces must leave Gaza and all Gazans must be able to return to homes they have fled. “We are showing the required flexibility in order to reach a comprehensive cessation of aggression against our people, but the occupation is still evading the entitlements of this agreement,” Hamas said in a statement. A source had earlier said Israel was staying away from the Cairo talks because Hamas refused to provide a list of hostages who are still alive. Hamas says this is impossible without a ceasefire as hostages are scattered across the war zone. Senior Hamas official Bassem Naim said the group had presented its own draft deal and was awaiting a response from Israel, and that “the ball now is in the Americans’ court”. US President Joe Biden on Tuesday said ally Israel was cooperating and urged Hamas to accept the “rational offer” Israel had made. Israeli forces, which began their offensive in Gaza after the deadly Hamas raid on Israel on Oct 7, have continued bombarding the Palestinian enclave since the talks began in Cairo on Sunday, and the dire humanitarian situation in the densely populated coastal strip has deteriorated further. “Every day costs us dozens of martyrs. We want a ceasefire now,” said Shaban AbdelRaouf, a Palestinian electrician and father of five from Gaza City, who is now in southern Khan Younis. Health officials in Gaza said the number of people confirmed killed in Israel’s offensive had now passed 30,700. It reported 86 deaths in the past 24 hours and witnesses said the Israeli bombardments continued in Khan Younis, the southern city of Rafah and areas in central Gaza. – Reuters

10 FRIDAY | MAR 8, 2024 @thesundaily FOLLOW ON Malaysian Paper INSTAGRAM Make houses and cars more affordable ONE of the major concerns highlighted by Bank Negara Malaysia in its annual report is the nation’s high percentage of household debts, which stand at 80% of gross domestic product, making it one of the world’s highest, if not the highest. However, what has been done all these years to address this national problem? Household debt among average Malaysians largely boils down to three reasons – housing and car loans, and the rampant use of credit cards. Housing loans are normally the biggest lifetime investment for Malaysian employees, with owning a house becoming a priority, especially for married couples, on top of having a car. Although billions have been invested in our mass transit systems, such as the LRT and MRT in the Klang Valley, large sections of the working population still face challenges accessing these seamless travel modes due to the distance between the rail lines and their workplaces. The pressure for space on the LRT and MRT peaks when commuters try to reach their offices or factories on time, albeit this is only applicable to those fortunate enough to have their workplaces near rail stations. For the majority, owning a car or motorcycle remains essential, which is why the ownership ratio of these two vehicles in Malaysia is arguably one of the world’s highest. Affordable houses, as promoted by developers to the average salaried person, may appear inexpensive on paper but often prove to be less so when individuals look at their payslips. Coupled with the necessity of owning a car, housing and car loans ultimately leave very little for them to make ends meet. This is where banks cash in by offering a credit card or two, which have ready takers, and before long, individuals realise they have accumulated significant debt. The Counselling and Financial Management Agency under Bank Negara Malaysia, better known as AKPK, is tasked with educating people on prudent spending, but because of these necessities that they have to commit to, the number of borrowers going into early bankruptcy among Generation Y or millennials is rising. This is the most worrying trend in our nation-building moving forward. materials required in car-making. It is also a financial trauma for most average salaried employees having half their pay cheques going into paying their monthly instalments for seven long years. It is crucial to reduce car prices because, unlike a house, the value of a car depreciates by the day. There are so many cases of borrowers having their cars repossessed by banks for payment defaults, and this is not the end of the car owner’s nightmare. Even after repossession, borrowers still need to top up with banks because the resale value is much lower than their outstanding loans. A piece of advice that first-time car buyers may want to consider is opting for good second-hand cars, which are often more affordable. Banks should also be prepared to provide such loans. Certainly, the indiscriminate use of credit cards is a critical issue facing millions of Malaysians, worsened by the high-interest rates charged. Bank Negara could reconsider these charges and strictly enforce limits on the number of cards an average individual can carry, instead of allowing banks to offer multiple cards as a common practice. I strongly believe that if these measures are considered in Budget 2025 by year-end, more financially strapped citizens can have peace of mind, leading to the overall well-being of the general population. Comments: [email protected] “Affordable houses may appear inexpensive on paper but often prove to be less so when individuals look at their payslips. Housing and car loans ultimately leave very little for them to make ends meet. Valuing elderly generation Q: Now that my children are grown, I have more time on my hands and want to invest in something meaningful. Do you have any suggestions? Focus on the Family Malaysia: We often place great emphasis on the next generation: the children growing up today who will become the leaders of tomorrow. That is certainly worthwhile, but what about the previous generation? In many nations, the birth rate is declining while the elderly are the fastest-growing segment of the population. According to the Statistics Department, about 15% of the population will be 60 and over by 2030. Although our culture prizes those who are young, let us also remember that there is great value in every human being, no matter their age. Investing in the older generation is about more than spending time with your parents and grandparents, although this is important. Think about the thousands of men and women including veterans, nursing home residents, and shut-ins, who are growing old alone. I hope you will consider investing a little time, energy and love in the older generation. We can all gain a lot from their wisdom, experience and example, and they will benefit from our love and appreciation. Q: I have been battling severe depression and anxiety for some time. These feelings are bad enough but I am concerned that I am making life difficult for my wife and children. What should I do? Focus on the Family Malaysia: Your concern for your family is a hopeful sign. Individuals who suffer from depression usually may withdraw deeply, making it challenging for them to consider others. It is encouraging to hear that you are thinking about your family, and we urge you to continue following that thought. However, it is important to recognise that depression can distort perception, including its impact on your family. Perhaps the situation may not be as dire as you fear. Talking with your wife and understanding her thoughts and feelings may provide you with a more objective perspective. While addressing your condition is crucial, try not to burden yourself with unnecessary worry or guilt. Taking decisive actions is vital in countering depression and anxiety. 0 Have you spoken with your family doctor about this? 0 Have you engaged the services of a counsellor? 0 Are you attending appointments regularly and following doctor’s recommendations? 0 Are you taking appropriate medication? If you have taken any of these steps, I commend you. If not, I strongly recommend starting now. Once you are moving in the right direction, share with your spouse and children how you are addressing your depression, and enlist their support. You may be surprised by the impact of this kind of communication. By openly discussing your struggles, you are offering your wife and children a tremendous gift of encouragement and hope. Ultimately, facing the problem together as a team will make your family stronger and become closer. Our counsellors will be more than happy to assist you on this journey. We encourage you to reach out to our Counselling Department for support. You do not have to face this alone. This article is contributed by Focus on the Family Malaysia, a non-profit organisation dedicated to supporting and strengthening the family unit. It provides a myriad of programmes and resources, including professional counselling services, to the community. For more information, visit family.org.my. Comments: [email protected] Housing loans are one of the biggest lifetime investments for Malaysian employees, with owning a house becoming a priority, especially for married couples. – BERNAMAPIC UNDER ONE ROOF What can be done by way of out-ofthe-box strategies before the situation gets out of hand? I would suggest making houses and cars more affordable. Land is a major component of the construction industry and since it is a state matter, local governments can free up more idle land, especially in the suburbs, for the development of affordable homes. Taxes for building materials used in affordable housing can either be lowered or abolished to ease up on the pricing of these houses. Prices of such houses are also influenced by the delays developers face in getting myriad approvals from the authorities due to bureaucratic red tape. In this regard, the local government and Housing Ministry should ensure that the delays are minimised or, better still, create a zero-delay environment. The authorities should also chip in by capping the profit margins reaped by developers for such houses instead of allowing market forces to wreak havoc on buyers’ pockets, especially those struggling to own their first house. How about enacting a law, such as the Profit Margin Control Act, for affordable homes? National House Buyers’ Association Secretary-General Datuk Chang Kim Loong said prices of houses had become ridiculous, citing for example, a terrace house in Cheras, Kuala Lumpur at around RM750,000. Such exorbitant prices pose significant challenges for middle-class Malaysian families striving to afford housing. There are usually thousands of applicants begging banks to give them loans but the rate of rejection is said to be very high due to diminishing disposable income. The same goes for car loans. We need to make cars more affordable by reducing taxes on the

Looking after ooking after exotic pets xotic pets Advantages and disadvantages of Advantages and disadvantages of caring for rare animals - aring for rare animals - P12 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 FRIDAY | MAR 8, 2024 Editorial T: 03-7784 6688 F: 03-7785 2625 E: [email protected] Advertising T: 03-7784 8888 E: [email protected] SCAN ME INSIDE p INSIDE 21 Women’s Day messages INSIDE p 23 Easy bread recipes p 22 Delicious carrot desserts

LYFE LYFE FRIDAY | MAR 8, 2024 12 /thesundaily FOLLOW ON FACEBOOK Malaysian Paper Intricacies of exotic pet ownership oPros and cons of having unusual animals as pets THE allure of owning an exotic pet is undeniable, with their unique beauty and fascinating behaviours captivating the imagination of animal enthusiasts worldwide. From majestic big cats to colourful reptiles, the prospect of sharing a home with a creature from distant lands can be both thrilling and rewarding. However, the decision to welcome an exotic animal into one’s life comes with a host of considerations, ranging from ethical and legal concerns to the practical challenges of care and maintenance. Here are some of the pros and cons of owning an exotic animal as a pet. Pros 0 Unique companionship and bonding One of the primary appeals of owning an exotic pet is the opportunity for unique companionship and bonding. Exotic animals often possess distinct personalities and behaviours that can foster deep connections with their human caregivers. Whether it’s the playful antics of a capuchin monkey or the gentle affection of a ball python, the bond between exotic pets and their owners can be profoundly rewarding, providing companionship and emotional support. 0 Educational opportunities Exotic pets offer unparalleled educational opportunities, providing owners with firsthand insights into the biology, behaviour, and natural history of their chosen species. Caring for an exotic animal requires a d e e p understanding of its specific needs, habitat requirements, and dietary preferences, encouraging continuous learning and enrichment. Additionally, exotic pets can serve as ambassadors for their species, raising awareness about conservation issues and inspiring others to appreciate and protect wildlife. 0 Conservation advocacy Responsible ownership of exotic pets can contribute to conservation efforts by supporting captive breeding programmes, research initiatives, and habitat preservation projects. Many exotic pet owners are passionate advocates for wildlife conservation, actively engaging in outreach activities, fundraising campaigns, and educational programmes to promote the welfare of endangered species and ecosystems. By fostering a personal connection with exotic animals, owners can inspire others to take action to protect biodiversity and preserve natural habitats. 0 Therapeutic benefits Exotic pets can provide therapeutic benefits to their owners, offering companionship, stress relief, and emotional support. Interacting with exotic animals has been shown to reduce anxiety, depression, and feelings of loneliness, promoting overall wellbeing and mental health. For individuals facing challenges such as post-traumatic stress disorder, autism, or chronic illness, the presence of an exotic pet can offer comfort and a sense of purpose, enhancing quality of life and promoting healing. Cons 0 Ethical and legal considerations The ownership of exotic pets raises complex ethical and legal considerations, including concerns about animal welfare, conservation and public safety. Many exotic species are subject to strict regulations governing their importation, sale, and ownership, with permits, licences, and inspections required in some jurisdictions. Additionally, the exotic pet trade can contribute to habitat destruction, population declines, and the illegal trafficking of endangered species, raising ethical questions about the exploitation of wildlife. 0 Specialised care requirements Exotic animals often have specialised care requirements that can be challenging to meet, requiring extensive knowledge, resources, and commitment from their owners. From dietary needs to environmental enrichment, providing appropriate care for exotic pets necessitates a thorough understanding of their species-specific requirements and behaviours. Moreover, the long-term commitment involved in caring for exotic animals can be significant, as many species have lifespans that extend well beyond those of traditional pets. 0Health and safety risks Exotic animals pose inherent health and safety risks to their owners and the broader community, including the potential for diseases, injuries and property damage. Many exotic species carry pathogens that can be transmitted to humans, posing a risk to public health and safety. Additionally, certain species may exhibit aggressive behaviours or possess physical characteristics that can pose a danger to their owners or others, necessitating careful handling and supervision. The decision to own an exotic pet is a complex and deeply personal one that requires careful consideration of the pros and cons. Prospective exotic pet owners must weigh these factors thoughtfully and ensure they are prepared to provide the highest standards of care for their chosen species. Ultimately, responsible exotic pet ownership requires a commitment to the welfare of the animal, adherence to legal and ethical standards, and ongoing dedication to promoting the conservation and protection of wildlife. Ball python. – ALL PICS BY PEXELS █ BYTHASHINE SELVAKUMARAN Fennec cats. Capybara. Chameleons. Sugar gliders.

FRIDAY | MAR 8, 2024 Editorial T: 03-7784 6688 F: 03-7785 2625 E: [email protected] Advertising T: 03-7784 8888 E: [email protected] SCAN ME BNM’s benchmark rate remains at 3% PETALING JAYA: The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) yesterday decided to maintain the Overnight Policy Rate (OPR) at 3%. The central bank said in a statement that with the current OPR level, the monetary policy stance remains supportive of the economy and is consistent with the current assessment of the inflation and growth prospects. BNM said it will remain vigilant to ongoing developments to assess the outlook of domestic inflation and growth besides ensuring that the monetary policy stance remains conducive to sustainable economic growth amid price stability. It said the global economy continues to expand, albeit moderately, supported by domestic demand amid improvement in trade activity. Favourable labour market conditions in some countries continue to support consumption activity, it added. Looking ahead, BNM said growth in regional economies is expected to improve, while China’s growth would likely remain modest given continued weakness in the property market. “Global trade is expected to strengthen as the global tech upcycle gains momentum. Global headline and core inflation edged downwards in recent months with prospects of monetary easing in some countries in the second half of the year. Nonetheless, the global monetary policy stance is likely to remain tight in the near term, as inflation remains above average,” BNM added. The central bank said that growth outlook remains subject to downside risks, mainly from an escalation of geopolitical tensions, higher-than-anticipated inflation outturns, and volatility in global financial markets. On the Malaysian economy, BNM said it expanded by 3.7% in 2023 and growth is expected to improve in 2024, driven by the recovery in exports and resilient domestic oCentral bank will stay vigilant to developments and ensure monetary policy stance is conducive to sustainable economic growth expenditure. “Export growth is turning positive after contracting since March 2023 and will continue to be supported by stronger global trade. Tourist arrivals and spending are poised to rise further. Continued employment and wage growth remain supportive of household spending. Investment activity would be supported by the ongoing progress of multi-year projects in both the private and public sectors, the implementation of catalytic initiatives under the national master plans, as well as the higher realisation of investments,” it said. However, BNM said growth is subject to downside risks stemming from weaker-than-expected external demand and larger declines in commodity production. Meanwhile, upside risks to growth mainly emanate from greater spillover from the tech upcycle, more robust tourism activity and faster implementation of existing and new projects. It said headline and core inflation stood at 1.5% and 1.8% respectively in January 2024, trending in line with expectations. Inflation in 2024 is expected to remain moderate. However, this continues to be highly dependent on the implementation of domestic policy on subsidies and price controls, as well as global commodity prices and financial market developments. On currency, BNM said, “The ringgit is currently undervalued, given Malaysia’s economic fundamentals and growth prospects. “The government and Bank Negara Malaysia are taking coordinated actions to encourage repatriation and conversion of foreign investment income by governmentlinked companies and governmentlinked investment companies.” Peru to leverage Malaysia’s halal certification for food exports KUALA LUMPUR: Peru aims to position itself as a halal food products exporter after obtaining Malaysia’s halal certification this year. Vice Foreign Trade Minister of Peru Teresa Stella Mera Gomez (pic) said the country’s representative is now in talks with Halal Development Corporation Bhd and the Malaysian Islamic Development Department. Leveraging on Malaysia’s halal industry development experience, Gomez said, a related memorandum of understanding is expected to be sealed in a few months. The halal ecosystem is needed as Peru is currently boosting its agriculture industry while at the same time reducing dependency on the mining sector. “In 2000, Peru’s exports to Malaysia were worth US$22 million mainly contributed by the mining sector (79%) and a mere 0.5% from the agriculture. Last year, our exports to Malaysia amounted to US$245 million (RM1.15 billion), contributed by mining at 69% and agriculture at 29%,“ Gomez told Bernama. She said this on the sidelines of the InterRegional Business Forum: Empowering relations between Latin American-The Caribbean & Southeast Asian Countries here yesterday. “Peru has high-quality agricultural products, and cocoa bean is our main export product to Malaysia. Recently, we have gained market access for avocado and pomegranate. We also see high demand for quinoa among Malaysians,“ she said. Gomez said the country also aims to strengthen bilateral trade via joint ventures with Malaysian companies to invest in Peru, particularly for renewable energy, semiconductor, rubber gloves, and palm oil industries, backed by Malaysian advancement in technology and knowledge in those areas. “Malaysia can also make Peru a hub to export to and explore opportunities in other Latin American countries,“ she added. Embrace digital banking or risk being replaced, traditional banks told KUALA LUMPUR: Traditional banks are expected to be replaced by digital banks within 15 to 20 years’ time if they do not embrace digital banking, said Asean Strategy Research Centre president Professor Chin Yew Sin. According to him, the livelihood of a financial institution or bank in Asean is no longer dependent on scale size but rather the speed of its digital adoption. He explained that any bank that is able to embrace the advanced technology of digital banking will have significant advantage and high competitiveness on the market over its traditional counterparts, due to customer demand. “Digital banking is very important now because it can provide fast service and convenience to its customers,” he said during a panel discussion on “Leadership Roundtable: Enhancing Trust, Advancing Transformation and Building Talent to Future Proof Banks and Financial Institutions”, at the 2024 Asean Banking and Fintech Summit yesterday. Chin said customers are able to access a digital bank with round-the-clock services online even on public holidays without requiring to go to physical branches, as compared with traditional banks which require them to be present at its premises within working hours for some, if not all services. Moreover, he said, digital banks could From left: Ping An OneConnect Financial Technology CEO Matthew Chen, Aboitiz Data Innovation chief commercial officer Guy Sheppard, Aeon Bank (M) Bhd CEO Raja Teh Maimunah Raja Abdul Aziz, Asean Economic Club exco members Professor Annie Koh and Dr Kirida Bhaopichitr, Macrokiosk COO Datuk Henry Goh and Chin at the event. █ BYGLORIA HARRY BEATTY [email protected] possibly offer more competitive pricing in terms of services due to lower operational costs, such as overhead and payroll. “Due to lower operational costs such as not needing a physical premises or high staff hiring, these banks could offer better pricing such as marking down interest rates for loans compared with traditional banks,” he opined. With regard to artificial intelligence (AI), Chin reckoned that digital banks would not require a high head count as AI technology could replace a significant number of staff in terms of customer service engagement. He mentioned that some digital banks in China that employ AI technology are able to provide response within minutes to customers who apply for small loans. Chin also said digital banks could determine whether a customer is a good candidate for bank loans, based on the customers’ spending behaviour on various platform such as e-commerce platforms. Touching on the digital banking landscape in Malaysia, he noted that there are five entities which have received digital banking licences from the central bank. Moving forward, Chin sees more financial institutions applying for digital banking licences in order to stay competitive in the local market. In addition, he foresees that demand for services will largely come from the younger generation. Selangor records RM5.4b ICT investments during Jan-Sept 2023 SHAH ALAM: A total of 75 projects for the information and communications technology industry (ICT) with an investment value of RM5.42 billion were approved in Selangor from January to September last year. State executive councillor for investment, trade and mobility Ng Sze Han said RM3.27 billion comprised local investments while RM2.15 billion were foreign investments. “This industry contributed 22% of the total investment in the services sector in the state with 4,940 potential job opportunities created,” he added. Ng was responding to questions by Pua Pei Ling (PH-Bukit Lanjan) on whether the digital economy has contributed to the economic and investment performance in Selangor at the state legislative assembly yesterday. Ng said that based on the current trend, investment in the industry showed encouraging growth of 5% in the first quarter of 2023 and continued to chart an increase of 39% in the third quarter of the same year. The positive growth reflected that the digital economic sector needs to be emphasised to ensure a sustainable expansion of the Selangor economy, he added. Ng said the focus on the development of the digital economy is also encompassed in the policy and implementation of initiatives under the First Selangor Plan. He also stated that the establishment of the Smart Selangor Delivery Unit (SSDU) is to plan and implement digital initiatives in Selangor to boost the development of the digital economy in the state. “By leveraging technologies such as the Internet of Things, big data analytics and artificial intelligence, SSDU aims to optimise the use of resources, increase efficiency and create a conducive environment to drive the digital economy,“ he said. – Bernama

BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE FRIDAY | MAR 8, 2024 14 PETALING JAYA: Carro, myTukar’s parent company and Southeast Asia’s largest and most profitable online used car platform, has acquired Beyond Cars, one of the leading used car platforms in Hong Kong. Founded in 2016, Beyond Cars has grown to become an ecosystem providing an end-to-end journey for those looking to buy or sell their cars, complete with consignment services, dealer financing, hire-purchase financing and insurance services. The company has been profitable for three years, and Carro is looking to accelerate its growth, with an expected compound annual growth rate of more than 50% in the next three years. With Hong Kong under its belt, Carro is now present in a total of seven markets, including Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Japan and Taiwan. “We see huge potential in Hong Kong in the coming years,” says Carro cofounder and group CEO Aaron Tan (pic). “Beyond Cars is one of the rare and leading players leveraging e-commerce channels and technology in Hong Kong’s used car market – already we’re definitely seeing a shared strategy and alignment in business goals.” Hong Kong is also seeing strong demand and hype in electric vehicles, partially driven by the government’s waivers and its pledge that the registration of petrol cars, including hybrids, will not be accepted from 2035. “The high penetration of EVs in Hong Kong will enable us to further enhance our pricing algorithms and provide endto-end solutions tailored to EVs,” says Tan. “With an already strong relationship with multiple global EV manufacturers and the capabilities to inspect, service and maintain vehicles, we also want to take our expertise to Hong Kong and become a trusted choice for consumers who are looking for pre-owned EVs that are ‘As Good As New’.” Beyond Cars’ co-founder and CEO Garry Yu and COO Luke Yip will continue to helm the business with the team in Hong Kong, and integrate Carro’s datadriven platform and its full suite of technologies, including proprietary technologies and artificial intelligence capabilities across pricing, inventory management, and inspection process. Yu will report directly to Fong Hon Sum, Carro’s CEO of International Marketplace. Carro will also work towards expanding Beyond Cars’ network of partnerships, and further develop ancillary services across insurtech, financing and aftersales in Hong Kong. “We have our sights set on big things in Hong Kong – beyond buying and selling cars,” says Tan. “With Carro’s strong expertise in automotive technology and Beyond Cars’ wide network and trusted reputation in Hong Kong, I have no doubt that we can scale operations and take the brand to new heights” Yu says, “Since our launch in 2016, our mission has always been to give our customers a seamless and transparent car-buying and selling experience. With Carro in the mix, I am sure we’ll be able to transform Hong Kong’s used car market and become the number one choice for customers in their used car ownership journey. ” myTukar parent firm Carro acquires HK’s Beyond Cars oExpands footprint in region, is now present in seven markets MMAG unit seals partnerships for landmark ocean transshipment hub PETALING JAYA: MMAG Aviation Consortium Sdn Bhd (MAC), the aviation arm of MMAG Holdings Bhd, has formalised joint-venture partnerships for its subsidiary Oceanic Transshipment Sdn Bhd, Malaysia’s first oceanic transshipment hub located within the Cainiao Aeropolis eWTP Hub at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA). Joining forces with Asia Express Ltd from Macau, holding a 20% stake, and Suniao Supply Chain Sdn Bhd, holding a 10% stake, the collaboration is set to enhance the hub’s capacity to meet the surging demand for seafood in Asia, particularly in China. China’s seafood consumer market alone crossed the US$80 billion (RM376 billion) mark in 2022, with projections soaring to approximately US$130 billion by 2028, according to a report by Statista. This rise accompanies China’s shift to becoming a net importer of seafood after a significant 30% increase in imports, signalling a historic moment in the seafood trade and an opportunity for regional suppliers. In addition, the Chinese seafood market, having reached 321.7 billion yuan in 2020, is expected to surge past 400 billion yuan (RM2.6 trillion) in 2023, showcasing the vast market demand and commercial potential within the country, based on an article in CAHarborFood. The oceanic transshipment hub, strategically positioned at KLIA, is ideally situated to serve as a conduit for this demand, offering a streamlined route for local and regional seafood products to enter these lucrative markets. Spanning an expansive 26,000 sq ft, the hub is outfitted with specialised fish tank working areas and cold storage facilities. MAC chairman Woo Kam Weng said, “The establishment of the oceanic transshipment hub is a response to the escalating demand for live seafood in Asia and China. Through this hub, we are creating a gateway for Malaysian and regional seafood to access vast new markets, bolstering trade and economic growth.” The role of MAC is for the overall management and operation of the JV, including the provisioning of warehouse and business operation spaces and aligning the hub with all regulatory standards to establish a seamless and efficient transshipment process. “The synergy between our partners Asia Express Ltd and Suniao Supply Chain Sdn Bhd will leverage their established networks, particularly in China, to ensure that the Oceanic Transshipment Hub not only meets but exceeds expectations in servicing the demand for premium seafood in Asia,” said Woo. Banks blocked RM383m worth of suspicious, fraudulent transactions in 2023 KUALA LUMPUR: Financial institutions in Malaysia prevented suspicious and fraudulent transactions worth RM383 million from January to December 2023, said the Association of Banks in Malaysia (ABM). Industry Task Force on Measures to Combat Financial Scams chairman Datuk John Chong said the achievement by 15 banks in Malaysia underscored their unwavering commitment to robust fraud prevention measures. Chong, who is also Malayan Banking Bhd’s group CEO of global banking, said the implementation of security measures, tightening of fraud monitoring parameters and heightened counter-fraud controls continue to produce positive momentum and results in combating suspicious and fraudulent transactions. “According to Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM), there was 58% reduction of unauthorised online banking transactions reported to the National Scam Response Centre over a five-month period,” he said at the #JanganKenaScam Fraud Workshop for media professionals yesterday. Chong said the banks have implemented five key measures propounded by BNM to combat scams since July 2023. The measures are migrating from SMS onetime passwords, tightening the banks’ fraud detection rules, allowing only a single mobile device or secure device to be registered, verification and cooling-off period for first-time enrolment of e-banking services or secure devices, and 24/7 dedicated complaint channel for customers. In addition, the banks have proactively put in place other security measures, such as refraining from sending SMS or emails with hyperlinks, enforcing mobile applications to only operate on a secure version of the operating systems, kill switches, brand monitoring and verification of secure authentication method at ATM, followed by a cooling-off period. “In our efforts to holistically tackle financial fraud on a wider scale, banks will implement similar fraud countermeasures for non-retail banking segments in the coming months, under the guidance of BNM. “We will enforce strong Multifactor Authentication (MFA) and a cooling-off period for any MFA activation of third-party transfer limit increase, with timely customer notification,” Chong said, adding that there will be dedicated 24/7 hotlines. He added that banks are also continuously assessing other practical means to safeguard customers further, such as detecting malware in Android Package Kits, commonly known as APK. – Bernama B R I E F SINTERNATIONAL RESERVES AT US$114.3 BILLION ON FEB 29: BANK NEGARA KUALA LUMPUR: Bank Negara Malaysia’s (BNM) international reserves amounted to US$114.3 billion as at Feb 29. The central bank said the reserves position was sufficient to finance 5.4 months of imports of goods and services and was 1.0 time the total short-term external debt. The main components of the reserves were foreign currency reserves which stood at US$101.8 billion, followed by International Monetary Fund reserves (US$1.4 billion), special drawing rights (US$5.8 billion), gold (US$2.6 billion) and other assets (US$2.7 billion). – Bernama PLS PLANTATIONS AND CHINA COMPANY PLAN REGIONAL WHOLESALE MARKET IN JOHOR KUALA LUMPUR: PLS Plantations Bhd has entered into a memorandum of business exploration with China-based Guangzhou Jiangnan Agriculture Development Co Ltd to build a regional one-stop wholesale market in Johor for the processing and marketing of Malaysian agricultural produce. PLS said in a statement that the regional wholesale market, which will be built in Pasir Gudang in Johor, is a significant step towards boosting Malaysia’s food security programme. PLS executive vice-chairman Tan Sri Lim Kang Hoo said the one-stop offtake centre in Pasir Gudang will serve as a hub for farmers and other food producers seeking support services, market access and logistical assistance. – Bernama JATI TINGGI AWARDED CONTRACT WORTH RM22M KUALA LUMPUR: Jati Tinggi Group Bhd’s wholly owned subsidiary, Jati Tinggi Holding Sdn Bhd, has secured a contract valued at about RM22.1 million for a 275kV underground cable double circuit for a data centre located at the southern region of Malaysia. The management of Jati Tinggi said the landmark project signifies a pivotal expansion in its portfolio. “This is just the beginning; we anticipate this venture will pave the way for more opportunities in the data centre and its related sectors, aligning with our strategic vision for sustainable growth,” it added. Jati Tinggi is involved in utilities engineering services.

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FRIDAY | MAR 8, 2024 | 17 greateasternlife.com CHAN AN NEE OOI WAH TENG QUEK WAN YIN RAJESHWARAN A/L MANI MARAN SOO YIK HONG TAN CHOO MENG TAN HUI HUANG TAN SAI GUAN TEH CHUI ANN TENG CHONG BOON TEOH YIN NGEE WANG TEE SUAN WATT SOO KIANG WONG OK CHAI YEAP MEE GUIK YONG KONG CHENG YU SIONG CHOO CHIEW HUI SIN CHONG NYUK CHUI E KWEE YIN HO LI SHAN IRWIN TAN JUN LIONG JESSICA FOO YING JIE KEE CHIEW GUEK KHONG THAY KUI KONG KAH LUN LEE JIA CHYI LEE LI CHENG LEE POH YEE LIM SIEW WAI LIM U CHEN LOH KAW YEH VER FUM CHON LONG PUA HAN NEE GAN CHOON WAH PUA LIAN PENG GAN HONG HUAT UA G HOCK GHEE YIH SHUANG RYAN LAU LE AN GOH CHOOI HONG SANTHINI A/P DAMODARAN GOON MEI LEAN SHANTI DEVI A/P CHANDRAKAISAN HENG JING THIN A CHOE NG ERN SHARON YONG HUIEE HENG YING HUI MATHIVANAN A/L KALI PERUMAL SHUN MEI LING HING AI LONG NA ZHEN XUN SHYAMALA DEVI A/P VENKETESAH HONG CHOW PENG NEO WEI CHENG SIM AI KHENG HOR KAH FAI NG HUI PING SIOW CHIEN SHEN INDRANI A/P RAGAVAN NG JIN MIN TAN BEE IMM JACKSON KOH NG KAH GIN TAN CHEE BENG JASON WONG CHAU SHEN NG MING JER TAN CHIN KHOON NG SOON HOE TAN CHUN CHUANG NGO LEE FUN TAN EAK JOO OOI TZE QIAN TAN ENG BENG AU CHOY PANG TIAM SO TAN HUI SIAN YEAP CHIN CHIN YEO LAY HUAI DR ASUNTHERI NAPATHY PHONG YAP KEONG TAN HWEE SEE YEW KIM HOOI ELIZABETH YONG CHING CHING PHUA XIN HUI TAN KIM SIOK YONG ZHEN LIN FONG MEI MEI PONG CHUNG LOONG YU SOON LEE FOO JUN NE FOO YING PAN POON TUCK CHUN SSIC TAN SIEW TENG TAN SIONG TECK TAN TECK KANG TAN TEE WEI TAN TIAN WEI TANG SU FENG TENG JUN GENG TEOH YIN CHIOU TIEW WAY CHIN VALAR MATHI A/P GURUSAMY WEE LEE PAW WONG CHEN SEONG WONG FONG LAN WONG SHU FON WONG SIU FAN WOON NYUK FOONG AN TENG TAN SHEAU MIIN ANG SIAW PENG ANGELINE TEH LYE THENG BARATHI A/P ARUNASALAM BEE THYE WEI CHAI POH YEE CHAN JEAK SUNG CHAN LAI SIM CHEAH TING PING CHEN LAI LI CHEOK SWEE SAN CHIA SOOK HUANG CHIA YIT MEI CHONG MIN WAH CHOY MIN HON CHUA BOON POH CINDY FAM NYUK MEE CHEANG POO YING UTHA GOPAL KU YAN KIT LAI JIAN TAT LAM SIEW MIIN LAU WOEI MING LEE GEAT MENG LEE KHEG MEE LEE SEK HOI LEE SHOOK HAN LEE WAN PING LEE YEN PING Y LEE I PEI JOSHUA TAN YI-SHAUN JUSTIN YONG ZHANYU KANG CHER SIN KHO SIANG KIT KHOO SEWE TIN KHOR BOON HWA KONG SET WAH LIM SOOK WAN LIM TONG CHING LIM WAI LOON LOO CHEW YIN LOO CHUNG HON LOOI BOH MING ONG I LING LEONG LAI YEE LEONG ZHI JIE LIEW LEE HOU LIEW SIEW TING LIM CHOON WAH LIM GOH TONG LIM HUI LENG LIM KUWA KIM LIM KUWN YEN LIM LEW SEE LIM MEOW LIH

BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE FRIDAY | MAR 8, 2024 18 LONDON: Britain’s beleaguered government on Wednesday announced a fresh tax cut for millions of workers as it tries to win over voters before a general election expected this year. In a Budget update, Chancellor of the Exchequer Jeremy Hunt said the government would cut national insurance – a payrolls tax paid by employees and employers – by 2% from April, matching action he took in November. It remains to be seen whether the net fiscal giveaway, worth almost £14 billion (RM85 billion) according to consultancy Capital Economics, would convince voters. The right-wing Conservatives, led by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, have been in power since 2010 but are badly trailing the main opposition Labour party in polls. Analysts said the tax cut was modest, as elevated inflation forces up repayments on state borrowing, undermining the government’s ability to stimulate the recession-mired economy. Labour leader Keir Starmer slammed the Budget as “the last desperate act of a party that has failed”, describing tax cuts as a “Tory con” as Britons faced “the highest tax burden for 70 years”. “Keeping taxes down matters to Conservatives in a way it never can for Labour,” Hunt told Parliament in his Budget address. The Budget also featured plans for better value-for-money in public services, notably the cash-strapped National Health Service, and improved benefits for families with children. There were also tax rises, with Hunt unveiling a future levy on vaping, already the subject of a major crackdown by Sunak’s administration on public health grounds. And he extended by a year, until 2029, a windfall tax on the profits of oil and gas firms, whose revenues have soared following the invasion of Ukraine by major fossil-fuels producer Russia. The Budget also partially stole Labour’s thunder, by tightening a loophole enabling Britain’s wealthiest residents to reduce their tax bill. Labour has vowed to end the loophole that allows those with “non-dom” status, who live in Britain but whose permanent domicile is abroad, to avoid UK tax on income earned outside the country. – AFP Foreign firms warn Vietnam of investment freeze oNew levy raises effective tax rate paid by large multinationals HANOI: Large foreign multinationals said they may freeze new investment plans in Vietnam in the absence of subsidies to help offset the cost of a new top-up tax, said a person involved in talks on the matter between investors and the government. The investment-reliant manufacturing hub has been one of the main beneficiaries of companies relocating activity from China to minimise the impact of Sino-US tension. But analysts said a tax hike alongside power supply problems, regulatory hurdles and wage increases may dent its competitiveness. Vietnam this year introduced the 15% Global Minimum Tax on large multinationals, an initiative shepherded by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). In accordance, incentives that lowered tax rates to as little as 5% will no longer be available, meaning some multinationals will effectively have to pay a top-up tax to meet the 15% rate. Some US multinationals have called on the government to honour low-tax commitments it made to attract existing investment, adding that new investment would be difficult without measures to offset the top-up, the person said. The government pledged new subsidies in the first half of last year but has been slow to introduce any. In December, it released a draft decree outlining new subsidies and conditions for eligibility, such as being classed as a high-technology company. But many key aspects remain undefined, such as the size of a new incentives fund, and there is no clear timetable for approval of the measures. Representatives of multinationals on Tuesday raised concerns with officials of the Ministry of Planning and Investment about the size, scope and accessibility of the planned incentives, the person, who attended the meeting, told Reuters on condition of anonymity as the meeting was not public. A representative for Lego Group, which is investing over US$1 billion (RM4.7 billion) to build a new factory in Vietnam, asked whether firms not classed as high-tech such as the Danish toy maker would be eligible for any of the subsidies outlined under the draft decree, to which a ministry official replied they would not, the person said. UK govt woos voters with more pre-election tax cuts Embattled US bank gets lifeline from ex-Treasury secretary NEW YORK: Embattled lender New York Community Bancorp (NYCB) announced on Wednesday that it has lined up more than US$1 billion (RM4.7 billion) from investors led by the firm of former US Treasury secretary Steven Mnuchin. NYCB said the consortium headed by Mnuchin’s Liberty Strategic Capital also includes Hudson Bay Capital and Reverence Capital. “In evaluating this investment, we were mindful of the bank’s credit risk profile,” Mnuchin said in a news release. Mnuchin, who served for four years as former president Donald Trump’s Treasury secretary, said the move reflected confidence that the bank had taken appropriate actions “to stabilise the company and to position NYCB to become a best-in-class US$100+ billion national bank with a diversified and de-risked business model that supports long term profitability”. As part of the agreement, Mnuchin will join the board of NYCB, along with representatives of the other two firms and Joseph Otting, a former US comptroller of the currency who will become the bank’s CEO, the press release said. Prior to the announcement, the New York Stock Exchange halted trading in NYCB after shares tumbled 40% following a Wall Street Journal report that the bank was seeking to raise capital. Shares of the bank have fallen more than 80% since it released quarterly results on Jan 31. NYCB reported a surprise US$252 million loss in the fourth quarter of last year. The bank’s woes stem from weaknesses in commercial real estate and in its internal controls. – AFP Hunt holding his red Budget box outside 11 Downing Street as his wife Lucia Guo and family members watch before he leaves for Parliament. – REUTERSPIC China trade surges in first two months of 2024 BEIJING: China’s exports sharply accelerated in the first two months of this year, official figures showed yesterday, providing policymakers a bright spot as they battle to revive the world’s second-largest economy. Overseas shipments have long served as a key driver of the country’s economic growth, providing vast amounts of jobs for the manufacturing sector. In January and February combined, exports surged 7.1% on-year, the General Administration of Customs said, smashing the 1.9% forecast in a Bloomberg survey of analysts. The huge rise was partially attributed to the low base of comparison with January-February last year, when China emerged from its strict zero-Covid measures. Exports have been increasing since November, after six straight months of contraction. However, concerns about the global economic outlook owing to sticky inflation and elevated interest rates continue to subdue demand for Chinese goods. Commerce Minister Wang Wentao noted the recent rebound on Wednesday on the sidelines of a major political gathering in Beijing and stressed that “the overall trend is upward”. But he warned that March would likely see a decline. China’s trade performance has also been weighed in recent years by heightened geopolitical tensions with Washington, spurring Western firms to look at reducing their dependence on the country. Imports also rose 3.5% in January-February – much sharper than the 0.2% increase recorded in December. Analysts surveyed by Bloomberg had anticipated an increase of 2%. China previously saw imports contract for 11 months before rebounding in October. – AFP A representative for US firm Amkor Technology, which is building a US$1.6 billion semiconductor plant in Vietnam, said it has struggled to obtain classification as a high-tech company, the person said. Representatives for Samsung Electronics, the largest foreign investor, did not intervene in the meeting, the person said. The South Korean company has been among the most vocal about measures to offset the increased tax burden. Through the top-up tax, the government has estimated additional annual tax revenue of 14.6 trillion dong (RM2.8 billion) from 122 foreign companies. It has said it intends to use this windfall to give cash handouts to investing companies. Still, new subsidies would not offer direct compensation for the increased tax burden, in line with the Global Minimum Tax initiative, government officials told the corporate representatives, according to the person. A direct link would breach the international agreement behind the initiative and could lead to the transfer of the additional revenue to multinationals’ home countries, OECD officials have said, though enforcement measures remain unclear. However, for some companies, the new subsidies could cover a large part – if not all – of the top-up tax costs, experts said. – Reuters Hugo Boss outlook misses expectations amid slowing demand BERLIN: Hugo Boss yesterday forecast sales and operating profit for 2024 below market expectations and said its 2025 sales target might be slightly delayed, blaming weak consumer demand, especially in some European markets. The German fashion house sees earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) of €430 to €475 million (RM2.2 to RM2.4 billion), up from €410 million last year but below analysts’ consensus estimate of €490 million. Sales should increase between 3% and 6% to around €4.30 to €4.45 billion, also below analysts’ consensus of €4.56 billion, and a marked slowdown from 18% growth last year. The company’s shares dropped 17% to €52.30 at 0812 GMT (4.12pm in Malaysia), on track for their worst day in eight years. “Clearly demand conditions have continued to deteriorate,” Jefferies analysts wrote in a note. Hugo Boss continued reaping the fruits of its 2022 brand revamp last year, which brought in new customers in Asia and helped to support sales despite weakening demand in Europe. However, unfavourable currency effects coupled with an increasingly promotional market dampened margin improvement at the end of 2023, the company said. The luxury sector had to discount products last year as firms aimed to cut down their inventories amid slowing demand. – Reuters

BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE FRIDAY | MAR 8, 2024 19 STOCKS CLOSING (RM) +/- (RM) VOLUME (’00) NIKKEI-CB 1.47 -0.17 310 LPI 12.68 -0.1 1,004 KOTRA 4.89 -0.09 43 KESM 6.4 -0.08 132 KPJ-C9 0.07 -0.08 1,100 PETGAS 17.8 -0.08 9,453 CHINAETF-MYR 4.23 -0.08 50 HSI-CVR 0.64 -0.075 7,620 NIKKEI-C9 0.38 -0.075 1,472 HSI-CVT 0.39 -0.07 600 NIKKEI-CA 0.74 -0.065 276 AMEREIT 1.32 -0.06 469 HLFG 16.56 -0.06 1,129 HSI-CVC 0.515 -0.06 2,900 ITMAX 2.24 -0.06 18,232 MASTER 3.51 -0.06 290 OFI 1.96 -0.06 4,553 SEB 0.65 -0.06 455 YINSON 2.41 -0.06 40,744 DJIA-CD 0.125 -0.055 200 STOCKS CLOSING (RM) +/- (RM) VOLUME (’00) NESTLE 122.3 +1.300 1,241 HEIM 23.42 +0.500 1,697 TAANN 4.09 +0.300 37,607 AJI 18.94 +0.280 600 AMWAY 8.18 +0.280 1,602 SGBHD 0.51 +0.280 250 PPB 15.64 +0.240 3,508 MPI 28.8 +0.200 1,873 VITROX 7.26 +0.180 2,598 PETDAG 22.22 +0.160 4,355 SOP 3.22 +0.150 13,892 GCB 1.7 +0.110 42,337 CDB 4.28 +0.100 18,382 F&N 29.02 +0.100 258 NPC 1.8 +0.100 63 PEB 1.28 +0.100 20 SUNWAY 2.92 +0.100 180,746 NVIDIA-C1 4.47 +0.090 37 JTIASA-CR 0.68 +0.085 2,915 CGB 0.93 +0.080 17,466 STOCKS CLOSING (RM) +/-(RM) +/-(%) VOLUME HSI-HSL 0.195 +0.015 +8.33 1,767,396 HSI-CTP 0.095 -0.025 -20.83 1,167,717 HSI-CVE 0.165 -0.03 -15.38 1,022,485 PWRWELL 0.365 +0.055 +17.74 907,387 HSI-CTK 0.11 -0.02 -15.38 843,263 HSI-CVB 0.165 -0.035 -17.50 805,124 WIDAD 0.095 - - 781,589 TWL 0.035 - - 613,371 HSI-CTQ 0.035 -0.02 -36.36 592,181 HSI-HSM 0.085 +0.010 +13.33 485,660 ECONBHD 0.41 +0.045 +12.33 479,133 VELESTO 0.28 +0.010 +3.70 464,626 HSI-HP2 0.155 +0.035 +29.17 367,154 THRIVEN 0.125 +0.020 +19.05 364,021 AMBANK 3.95 -0.04 -1.00 352,101 HM 0.115 -0.005 -4.17 328,697 VIZIONE 0.045 -0.01 -18.18 315,822 YTLPOWR 3.83 -0.01 -0.26 303,013 MATANG 0.1 +0.010 +11.11 297,485 YTL 2.59 +0.010 +0.39 283,659 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: MARCH 7 [ Sources: Bursa Malaysia, Bernama, shareinvestor.com and websites DISCLAIMER: The data and reports are provided as a service to investors. Sun Media Corporation Sdn Bhd shall not be liable or responsible for any consequences resulting from usage of the information. INDEX CHANGE FBMEMAS 11,360.70 -36.20 FBMKLCI 1,535.83 -5.47 CONSUMER PRODUCTS 570.41 -0.38 INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTS 174.41 -0.06 CONSTRUCTION 207.40 -0.82 FINANCIAL SERVICES 17,231.80 -58.30 ENERGY 895.87 -11.40 TELECOMMUNICATIONS 593.69 -4.18 HEALTH CARE 1,887.45 -4.08 TRANSPORTATION 949.02 -5.19 PROPERTY 907.78 -4.33 PLANTATION 7,220.04 +41.75 FBMSHA 11,365.90 -19.10 FBMACE 4,681.44 -17.70 TECHNOLOGY 63.31 -0.60 TURNOVER: 3.550 bil VALUE: RM2.602 bil Top 20 Actives Top 20 Gainers (By RM) Top 20 Losers (By RM) Bursa Indices STOCKS CLOSING (RM) +/- (%) VOLUME (’00) SGBHD 0.51 +121.74 250 FINTEC 0.01 +100.00 5,191 KANGER-WB 0.02 +100.00 2,167 TAANN-CY 0.15 +87.50 9,292 WCT-C22 0.08 +77.78 701 HSI-CR6 0.06 +71.43 1,001 EDGENTA-CN 0.025 +66.67 10,500 COMPUGT 0.015 +50.00 10,000 HONGSENG 0.015 +50.00 51,674 PMETAL-C93 0.015 +50.00 5,403 TECHNAX 0.015 +50.00 36,320 SIMEPROP-C22 0.035 +40.00 3,502 MTRONIC 0.02 +33.33 53,847 MQTECH 0.02 +33.33 7,982 SAPNRG-WA 0.02 +33.33 300 UNISEM-C34 0.04 +33.33 3,000 JDCOM-C21 0.105 +31.25 1,220 HSI-HP2 0.155 +29.17 367,154 TSH-C7 0.09 +28.57 7,061 SIMEPROP-C23 0.07 +27.27 3,500 Top 20 Gainers (By %) STOCKS CLOSING (RM) +/- (%) VOLUME (’00) VS-C74 0.005 -66.67 2,876 KPJ-C9 0.07 -53.33 1,100 DXN-CE 0.005 -50.00 200 KLK-C29 0.025 -50.00 5,000 PARAMON-WA 0.005 -50.00 1,419 PHB 0.005 -50.00 2,611 PERMAJU-WA 0.005 -50.00 11,055 TWL-WD 0.005 -50.00 6,575 VIZIONE-WE 0.005 -50.00 68,565 YINSON-C33 0.005 -50.00 5,399 MAXIS-C41 0.03 -40.00 100 HSI-CTQ 0.035 -36.36 592,181 YINSON-C34 0.035 -36.36 300 CMSB-C44 0.01 -33.33 1,000 CTOS-C4 0.01 -33.33 4,500 CTOS-C5 0.02 -33.33 3,500 DNEX-C26 0.01 -33.33 1,040 MLAB 0.01 -33.33 15,002 XOX 0.01 -33.33 4,527 DJIA-CD 0.125 -30.56 200 Top 20 Losers (By %) INDEX CLOSING DAILY DAILY CHANGE CHANGE (%) DJIA (US) 38661.05 +75.86 +0.20 S&P 500 (US) 5104.76 +26.11 +0.51 NASDAQ (US) 16031.54 +91.95 +0.58 NYSE (US) 17801.04 +131.55 +0.74 EURO STOXX 50 (EUR) 4915.94 +0.45 +0.01 FTSE 100 (UK) 7649.63 -29.68 -0.39 DAX (GER) 17668.74 -47.97 -0.27 NIKKEI 225 (JPN) 39598.71 -492.07 -1.23 TOPIX INDEX (JPN) 2718.54 -12.13 -0.44 HANG SENG INDEX (HK) 16229.78 -208.31 -1.27 CSI 300 (CHN) 3529.72 -21.33 -0.60 MSCI ASIA PACIFIC 175.39 +1.18 +0.68 SHANGHAI SE COM (CHN) 3027.40 -12.53 -0.41 KOSPI INDEX (SK) 2647.62 +6.13 +0.23 SENSEX INDEX (IND) 74050.50 -35.49 -0.05 ASX 200 (AUS) 7763.71 +30.18 +0.39 ALL ORDINARIES INDX (AUS) 8026.68 +36.41 +0.46 FBM KLCI 1535.83 +4.32 +0.28 STRAITS TIMES INDEX (S’PORE) 3133.78 -2.36 -0.08 WTI (US$/BBL.) 78.65 -0.48 -0.61 BRENT (US$/BBL.) 82.43 -0.53 -0.64 GOLD (COMEX) (US$/T OZ) 2163.40 +5.20 +0.24 SILVER (COMEX) (US$/T OZ) 24.37 -0.13 -0.52 PLATINUM (US$/T OZ) 915.68 +6.71 +0.74 COPPER (COMEX) (US CENTS/LB.) 390.50 +3.00 +0.77 COPPER 3MO (LME) (US$/MT) 8577.00 +85.50 +1.01 CORN (US CENTS/BU.) 431.25 +2.50 +0.58 WHEAT (US CENTS/BU.) 534.25 +3.25 +0.61 SOYBEAN OIL (CBOT) (US CENTS/LB.) 45.48 +0.16 +0.35 COCOA (ICE) (US$/MT) 6549.00 +99.00 +1.53 RUBBER (S’PORE) (US CENTS/KG) 159.40 -0.50 -0.31 World Stocks/Commodities as at 5pm, Mar 7 Bursa higher as risk appetite lifted by unchanged OPR BURSA Malaysia closed higher yesterday as risk appetite was lifted after Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) kept the overnight policy rate (OPR) unchanged at 3%, a move seen as supportive of the domestic economy. At 5pm, the FBM KLCI added 4.32 points to 1,535.83 from yesterday’s close of 1,531.51. On the broader market, gainers outnumbered decliners 546 to 452, while 430 counters were unchanged, 847 untraded and 29 suspended. However, turnover fell to 3.55 billion units worth RM2.60 billion from 3.65 billion units worth RM2.66 billion on Wednesday. Mohd Sedek Jantan, head of wealth research and advisory and a designated portfolio manager at UOB Kay Hian Wealth Advisors, said the market was buoyed by the Malaysian central bank’s decision to maintain the OPR at 3% per cent, in line with analysts’ forecasts. “Looking ahead, tomorrow’s release of US non-farm payroll numbers, unemployment rate and wage data are anticipated to align with market expectations, further justifying the case for the US Federal Reserve (Fed) to consider reducing interest rates in the second half of the year,” he told Bernama. Among heavyweight counters, Maybank added six sen to RM9.70, CIMB rose one sen to RM6.52 while Public Bank and Tenaga Nasional were unchanged at RM4.30 and RM11.16, respectively. Petronas Chemicals slid to two sen to RM6.94. As for the active stocks, Powerwell Holdings rallied 5.5 sen to 36.5 sen, Econpile added 4.5 sen to RM4.10 and Velesto Energy inched up one sen to 28 sen. Widad Group and TWL Holdings were both flat at 9.5 sen and 3.5 sen, respectively. 1535.83pts Mar 7, 2024 Participation 18.9 41.1 40.0 100.0 Retail Institutions Foreign Bought RM m 484.0 1167.9 950.9 2602.8 Sold RM m 502.1 971.5 1129.2 2602.8 Net RM m -18.1 196.4 -178.3 0.0 % Preliminary stats (excluding trade amendments). For final data, please refer to www.bursamalaysia.com Source: Bursa Malaysia A Participating Organisation of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad A Trading Participant of Bursa Malaysia Derivatives Berhad S E C U R I T I E S S D N. B H D. 197201001092 (12738-U) 7/3/2024

BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE FRIDAY | MAR 8, 2024 20 MARKETS/FROM THE BROKERS SUNBIZ presents extracts of a selection of commentaries and research reports received from stockbrokers on counters that could be of interest to investors. [Compiled by SunBiz Team DISCLAIMER: The information is extracted from stockbrokers’ commentaries and research reports and do not represent the views or opinions of Sun Media Corporation Sdn Bhd. It is not a solicitation, recommendation or an offer to buy or sell the equities featured. Sun Media Corporation shall not be liable or responsible for any consequences resulting from usage of the information. DAYANG’S 64%-owned PETR announced that it won five contract awards – four contract extensions (on three anchor handling tug supply (AHTS) vessels and one accommodation work barge or AWB) and one new AHTS contract granted by Petronas Carigali. The total duration of the contracts ranges from 140 days to 271 days, effective either from November 2023 or January this year. The value of these contracts range from RM8.3 million to RM19.8 million. We are positive on these contract awards as they ensure earnings visibility for the coming quarters. We were guided that the implied daily charter rates of RM33-72k point to a mild improvement from that of previous contracts. We think that these rates are still lower than that of current spot charters which generally pencil in slightly shorter timeframes. Management still sees potential improvement in daily charter rates this year due to tight vessel supply. PETR aims for a 65-70% utilisation rate. Its outstanding orderbook stood at RM250 million as of December 2023. Meanwhile, 14 out of PETR’s 15 vessels have secured contracts that last 1-9 months. As of Feb 22, 10 vessels are already on hire and 14 vessels will be on hire (effective mid-March). PETR expects to achieve a 65-70% vessel utilisation rate in FY24 (FY23: 58%) and is targeting to lock in some long-term contracts to ensure long-term earnings visibility. Some of these contracts are expected to be awarded by Q2’24. Keep BUY and RM2.95 TP, 33% upside with c.2% FY24F yield. OMH is mildly optimistic on the outlook for its product prices given the improved demand-supply dynamics, which have resulted in the prices rebounding from recent lows in Q4 FY23. While Chinese producers have raised production, this is offset by supply loss following the nationalisation of the largest Russian FeSi producer recently. Recall, in FY23, the spot price for FeSi plummeted by 27% from US$1,901/MT to US$1,437/MT in 2023. Similarly, the spot price of silicon manganese (SiMn) spot price plunged by 24% to US$962/MT from US$1,309/MT. OMH was not spared the plunge in product prices but it managed to achieve realised ASP that was 2% higher than S&P Platts’ average spot price. All in, for FY23, OMH posted a 73% contraction in net profit on a 32% decline in revenue, as a 32% lower ASP negated a 17% increase in sales volume. OMH raised its guidance for FY24F output from its plant in Sarawak to 460-490 MT (from 430-470 MT guided in end-Jan 2024). This is on the back of higher capacity utilisation as more furnaces, currently under major maintenance, will be restarted sooner than expected. As at end-Dec 2023, 14 out of 16 furnaces have completed major maintenance. The remaining two FeSi furnaces will undergo major maintenance works in FY25. Meanwhile, fabrication works are ongoing for its high-margin metallic silicon (MetSi) furnaces and they will be restarted within this year. We continue to like OMH for: (i) its structural cost advantage over its international peers given its access to low-cost hydropower under a 20-year contract ending 2033, (ii) its strong growth prospects underpinned by plans to expand its capacity by 30-36% to 610,000-640,000 MTPA over the medium term, and (iii) its appeal to investor given its clean energy source. We maintain our forecasts, TP of RM1.80 and OUTPERFORM call. REFRACTIVE surgery volume grew 5% YoY in FY23 (37% of total FY23 revenue; Q4’23: +9% YoY) with the introduction of ZEISS Smile Pro at end-Q3’23, offsetting slower cataract surgery volume (FY23: -2% YoY; 32% of total FY23 revenue; Q4’23: -3% YoY). This is positive as the refractive segment gives higher revenue per surgery and offers greater volume growth capacity given its tech-sophistication and short surgery time (<10 secs for refractive laser treatment). We also continue to be optimistic on Optimax’s new high-margin plastic surgery segment, as volume growth is leading to a 2nd OT launch in April 2024 in its Atria ACC (where 2 out of 4 OTs will be dedicated to plastic surgery). Optimax’s satellite clinic in Taman Melawati has begun operating, and three new ACCs (Cambodia, Atria (PJ), and Kota Kinabalu) are targeted to be operational in March/April, which would bring to a total count of 16 ACCs, 7 satellite clinics, and one specialist centre by 1H24. We are hopeful that these launches would ease pressure on GP and pre-tax margins that were hit by high pre-ops costs for pre-hiring of medical staff and renovation. That being said, we expect costs to taper only gradually, as there are still plans to hire more doctors ahead of future expansions. Optimax expects construction of its Kempas Eye Hospital and Setia Alam Hospital to finish in 2H24, targeting to operate by early-2025. We maintain our earnings forecasts having imputed FY24E capex of RM15+ million, slightly above management’s guidance, to be conservative. Maintain BUY with unchanged TP of RM0.86. FOREIGN CURRENCY SELLING TT/OD BUYING TT BUYING OD 1 US Dollar 4.7800 4.6450 4.6350 1 Australian Dollar 3.1610 3.0340 3.0180 1 Brunei Dollar 3.5740 3.4690 3.4610 1 Canadian Dollar 3.5360 3.4400 3.4280 1 Euro 5.2230 5.0540 5.0340 1 New Zealand Dollar 2.9460 2.8360 2.8200 1 Singapore Dollar 3.5740 3.4690 3.4610 1 Sterling Pound 6.0990 5.9080 5.8880 1 Swiss Franc 5.4070 5.2830 5.2680 100 UAE Dirham 131.7600 124.9300 124.7300 100 Bangladesh Taka 4.4410 4.1510 3.9510 100 Chinese Renminbi 66.9100 64.0800 N/A 100 Danish Krone 71.8100 66.0800 65.8800 100 Hongkong Dollar 61.7900 58.7100 58.5100 100 Indian Rupee 5.8700 5.5100 5.3100 100 Indonesian Rupiah 0.0315 0.0285 0.0235 100 Japanese Yen 3.2150 3.1130 3.1030 100 New Taiwan Dollar 16.2000 N/A N/A 100 Norwegian Krone 46.8200 43.0700 42.8700 100 Pakistan Rupee 1.7400 1.6300 1.4300 100 Philippine Peso 8.6900 8.1900 7.9900 100 Qatar Riyal 132.6400 125.9100 125.7100 100 Saudi Riyal 128.9600 122.4200 122.2200 100 South Africa Rand 26.3500 23.8000 23.6000 100 Sri Lanka Rupee 1.6000 1.4700 1.2700 100 Swedish Krona 47.9700 43.6800 43.4800 100 Thai Baht 14.0200 12.4400 12.0400 Exchange Rates Source: Malayan Banking Bhd/Bernama Ringgit continues to gain ground against US dollar THE ringgit continued to strengthen against the US dollar yesterday after the US Dollar Index (DXY) retreated in anticipation of easier monetary policy in the US this year, an economist said. At 6pm, the ringgit rose to 4.7025/7080 against the greenback compared with Wednesday’s close of 4.7295/7350. Bank Muamalat Malaysia Bhd chief economist Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid noted that the US Federal Reserve (Fed) chair Jerome Powell in his two-day congressional testimony beginning Wednesday signalled that the interest rate would come down at some point in the future. At the same time, the Fed needs to be convinced that the inflation will move towards the 2% goal, he said. Meanwhile, on the home front, Bank Negara Malaysia’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) announced its decision to maintain the Overnight Policy Rate at 3% during its meeting yesterday. “The central bank is likely to keep the rate steady throughout the year based on the latest MPC decision,” Mohd Afzanizam told Bernama. Meanwhile, the ringgit was traded mostly higher against a basket of major currencies. The local currency was higher against the British pound at 5.9952/6.0022 from 6.0207/0277 on Wednesday, edged up versus the euro to 5.1257/1317 from 5.1438/1498 but slid vis-avis the Japanese yen to 3.1778/1817 from 3.1604/1643 previously. The ringgit also traded higher against other Asean currencies. It rose versus the Thai baht to 13.2130/2340 from Wednesday’s close of 13.2479/2704, and appreciated against the Singapore dollar to 3.5201/5247. MIDF Research remains ‘positive’ on property sector KUALA LUMPUR: MIDF Research has maintained a positive outlook on the property sector as it remains sanguine on property companies going forward. In a note yesterday, it said buying sentiment on property is expected to remain healthy going forward as the landscape for the property sector is improving. “New sales for property companies are improving which should translate into better earnings visibility going forward,” it said. Looking back at 2023, the research house said approved loan for the purchase of property was strong at RM261 billion last year, driven by the higher loan application, while approved loan data in January 2024 remained encouraging as it grew by 40.8% year-onyear and 14.1% month-on-month to RM20.4 billion, driven by the higher loan application. Looking ahead, MIDF Research said property companies were generally more optimistic about the outlook for financial year 2024 (FY24) by setting higher new sales targets. “Notably, Sunway Bhd targets to achieve new sales of RM2.6 billion in FY24 after recording new sales of RM2.4 billion in FY23. Similarly, Mah Sing Group Bhd is setting higher new sales target of RM2.5 billion and S P Setia Bhd recorded bumper new sales of RM5.1 billion last year due to land sales of RM836 million,” it said. Other than that, the research house also opined that despite the marginal increase in overhang units in the fourth quarter (Q4) of 2023, the overall declining trend in overhang eased concern on oversupply of property. “Note that residential overhang of 25,816 units in Q4’23 was lower than the 27,746 units in Q4’22 and 36,863 units in Q4’21,” it said. – Bernama Optimax Holdings Bhd Buy. Target price: RM0.86 OM Holdings Ltd Bhd Outperform Target price: RM1.80 Dayang Enterprise Holding Bhd Buy. Target price: RM2.95 Source: RHB Research Source: Kenanga Research Source: Maybank Investment Bank March 7, 2024: RM2.23 March 7, 2024: RM1.33 March 7, 2024: RM0.60

LYFE LYFE FRIDAY | MAR 8, 2024 21 I NTERNATIONAL Women’s Day is a globally celebrated occasion commemorating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. Observed annually on March 8, it serves as an important reminder of the ongoing fight for gender equality and women’s rights. This day not only honours the contributions of women throughout history but also highlights the challenges they continue to face in achieving full equality. It is a day to celebrate the resilience, strength and achievements of women from all walks of life while also advocating for a more inclusive and equitable world. As we mark this significant day, we are reminded of the importance of standing in solidarity with women everywhere and working towards a future where gender equality is a reality. In line with this spirit, we invited our readers to send in their heartfelt wishes, expressing gratitude and admiration for the women who inspire them, with the promise to amplify their voices by publishing these messages of love and appreciation. As we celebrate International Women’s Day today, it’s important to pause and reflect on the value that women bring to our lives and our world. Women are truly the backbone of our society. Let’s take this opportunity to acknowledge and appreciate the incredible strength and compassion that women embody every single day. To all the women out there, know that you are cherished and valued beyond measure. Your contributions, both big and small, make a difference in the lives of those around you. - Mohd Yunus, 29, Kuala Lumpur My dearest wife, on this International Women’s Day, I find myself overwhelmed with gratitude for the remarkable woman you are. Your presence in my life fills it with boundless joy and inspiration. I always reflect on the countless ways you enrich not only my life but also the lives of those around you. Whether as a devoted daughter, a caring sister, a loving wife, or a mother, you embody the essence of womanhood with grace and dignity. I feel incredibly fortunate to have you by my side, sharing in life’s joys and challenges together. I want to express my deepest appreciation for all that you are and all that you do. Here’s to celebrating you, my beloved wife, and all the phenomenal women who make the world a better place. - Jason Liew, 33, Penang Ma, I am filled with profound gratitude for the extraordinary woman you are and the impact you have had on my life. From the earliest days of my childhood, I have been in awe of your ability to effortlessly juggle the demands of work and family with unwavering grace and determination. I remember the countless sacrifices you made, rushing home from work to ensure that our family was always taken care of, even when faced with your own challenges and hardships. Now, as an adult, I continue to be inspired by your compassion and boundless love. You taught me the true meaning of hard work and I am forever grateful for the lessons you taught me. Happy International Women’s Day, I love you ma. - L Thasha, 27, Klang COMPILED BY THASHINE SELVAKUMARAN ARIES March 20-April 19 This weekend, Aries, embrace your adventurous spirit! Whether it’s trying a new hobby or exploring nature, the cosmos favour bold steps. Your enthusiasm will be contagious, bringing joy to those around you. Trust your instincts and let your passion guide you to exciting experiences. TAURUS April 20-May 20 Taurus, this weekend brings opportunities for deep connections. Open your heart to meaningful conversations with loved ones. Your steadfast nature will provide stability and support, fostering stronger bonds. Take time to nurture your relationships and appreciate the warmth they bring into your life. GEMINI May 21-June 20 Gemini, get ready for a weekend filled with creativity and inspiration! Your mind will be buzzing with new ideas and innovative solutions. Embrace your curiosity and explore different avenues of expression. Trust in your intellect and adaptability to overcome any challenges that come your way. CANCER June 21-July 22 Cancer, this weekend encourages you to prioritise self-care and relaxation. Take a break from your busy schedule and indulge in activities that nourish your soul. Whether it’s spending time in nature or pampering yourself at home, prioritise your well-being. Listen to your intuition and honour your emotional needs. LEO July 23-Aug 22 Leo, prepare for a weekend filled with excitement and adventure! Embrace spontaneity and say yes to new experiences. Your natural charisma will attract positive opportunities and new connections. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and seize the day. The world is yours to conquer! VIRGO Aug 23-Sept 22 Virgo, this weekend brings a sense of harmony and balance into your life. Focus on creating order in your surroundings and nurturing your relationships. Your attention to detail and practical approach will help you accomplish your goals with ease. Trust in the process and enjoy the peace it brings. LIBRA Sept 23-Oct 22 Libra, get ready for a weekend filled with love and laughter! Your charming personality will attract positive energy and delightful encounters. Embrace spontaneity and let your heart lead the way. Whether it’s reconnecting with old friends or exploring new passions, the universe is smiling upon you. SCORPIO Oct 23-Nov 21 Scorpio, this weekend invites you to dive deep into your passions and pursue your dreams with determination. Trust in your intuition and let your inner fire guide you. Your strength and resilience will help you overcome any obstacles that come your way. Embrace your power and shine brightly. SAGITTARIUS Nov 22-Dec 21 Sagittarius, get ready for a weekend filled with adventure and excitement! The cosmos are aligning in your favour, opening doors to new opportunities and thrilling experiences. Embrace your adventurous spirit and explore the world with an open mind and a courageous heart. The possibilities are endless! CAPRICORN Dec 22-Jan 19 Capricorn, this weekend brings a sense of stability and security into your life. Focus on building strong foundations for your future and investing in your longterm goals. Your determination and perseverance will lead to success in your endeavours. Trust in your abilities and keep moving forward with confidence. AQUARIUS Jan 20-Feb 18 Aquarius, prepare for a weekend filled with creativity and inspiration! Your innovative ideas will take centre stage, capturing the attention of those around you. Embrace your unique perspective and don’t be afraid to think outside the box. Trust in your intuition and let your imagination soar. PISCES Feb 19-March 20 Pisces, this weekend invites you to embrace your intuition and connect with your spiritual side. Take time to reflect on your dreams and aspirations, trusting that the universe is guiding you toward fulfillment. Embrace your compassionate nature and spread love and positivity wherever you go. Readers’ messages of gratitude and inspiration Your weekend horoscope Share your thoughts, opinions and stories: [email protected]

LYFE LYFE FRIDAY | MAR 8, 2024 22 Carrot pudding When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a bowl of warm carrot pudding. Made with grated carrots, milk, sugar and a hint of aromatic spices, carrot pudding is a creamy and indulgent dessert that’s perfect for cosy nights in. Top it with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a sprinkle of toasted coconut for an extra layer of decadence that will have you reaching for seconds. Carrot soufflé If you are looking to impress your dinner guests with a sophisticated dessert, consider serving up a carrot soufflé. This airy and elegant dish combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the lightness of whipped egg whites for a truly divine treat. The delicate texture and subtle flavour of the soufflé are sure to leave a lasting impression and have your guests asking for the recipe. Carrot halwa Travelling to the Indian subcontinent, we discover the rich and indulgent delight known as carrot halwa. Made by simmering grated carrots with milk, sugar and ghee until thick and creamy, this traditional dessert is infused with aromatic spices like cardamom and garnished with a generous sprinkling of nuts. Whether enjoyed warm or cold, carrot halwa is a decadent indulgence that’s perfect for celebrating special occasions or simply treating yourself to a taste of luxury. Carrot cheesecake bars For those who love the creamy richness of cheesecake but also crave the sweetness of carrots, carrot cheesecake bars offer the perfect marriage of flavours. Featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, a luscious cheesecake layer infused with carrot puree, and a tangy sour cream topping, these bars are a delightful indulgence for any dessert lover. Serve them at your next gathering and watch as they disappear within minutes. Carrot and orange muffins Combine the bright flavours of carrots and oranges in these moist and flavourful muffins. Grated carrots add sweetness and moisture, while freshly squeezed orange juice and zest impart a refreshing citrusy tang. These muffins are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a midday snack. Enjoy them warm with a pat of butter for a truly indulgent treat. Carrot and coconut macaroons For a unique twist on traditional macaroons, try incorporating shredded carrots and coconut into the mix. These chewy and fragrant treats are lightly sweetened with honey and flavoured with a hint of vanilla. With their golden exteriors and soft, moist centres, carrot coconut macaroons are sure to become a new favourite in your dessert rotation. Enjoy them alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon pick-me-up. Carrot ice cream Finally, we cool things down with a refreshing scoop of carrot ice cream. Made with pureed carrots, cream, sugar, and a touch of vanilla, this unique ice cream flavour is surprisingly delicious. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with warm desserts like apple pie or carrot cake, carrot ice cream is sure to refresh your palate and leave you craving more. From classic cakes to innovative creations, the world of carrot-based desserts is as vast as it is delicious. The natural sweetness and versatility of carrots shine through in every bite. So why not expand your dessert repertoire and treat yourself to the irresistible flavours of carrot desserts? With so many tantalising options to choose from, the only question is: which one will you try first? @thesundaily FOLLOW ON TWITTER Malaysian Paper Sweet, orangecoloured delights WHEN it comes to desserts, carrots might not be the first ingredient that comes to mind. However, this vibrant vegetable is incredibly versatile and can add a delightful sweetness and texture to a variety of sweet treats. Trust me, there is a world of carrot-based desserts waiting to be explored. Here are nine delicious carrot desserts that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you craving for more. Classic carrot cake Moist, flavourful and adorned with creamy cream cheese frosting, carrot cake is a classic favourite for good reason. Whether it’s studded with nuts and raisins or kept simple with just carrots, this delectable cake never fails to please. The blend of warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg adds depth to the sweetness of the carrots, making every bite a delight for the taste buds. Carrot cupcakes For a more portable and individually portioned option, look no further than carrot cupcakes. These adorable treats are perfect for parties, gatherings, or simply as a sweet snack on the go. Topped with swirls of luscious cream cheese frosting and a sprinkle of chopped nuts, carrot cupcakes are as visually appealing as they are delicious. Plus, their smaller size makes them ideal for sampling multiple desserts without feeling guilty. Carrot cake. – PEXELS oMouth-watering selection of carrot-based desserts █ BYTHASHINE SELVAKUMARAN Carrot cupcake. – PEXELS Carrot pudding. – COPYKAT RECIPE Carrot souffle. – FOOD.COM Carrot halwa. – PINTEREST Carrot cheesecake bars. – FOOD NETWORK Carrot and orange muffins. – SPEND WITH PENNIES Carrot coconut macaroons. – FRESH APRIL FLOURS Carrot ice cream. – KEEP CALM AND EAT ICE CREAM

LYFE LYFE FRIDAY | MAR 8, 2024 23 Bread breakfasts BREAD is a versatile ingredient that can be transformed into delightful breakfast dishes with minimal effort. Whether you’re craving something sweet or savoury, these four easy bread breakfast recipes are sure to kickstart your day with deliciousness. From classic French toast to inventive avocado toast variations, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy. Classic French toast French toast is a classic breakfast favourite that never fails to satisfy. This recipe brings together simple ingredients to create a dish that’s both comforting and indulgent. Ingredients 0 4 slices of bread (white or whole wheat) 0 2 eggs 0 1/4 cup of milk 0 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract 0 Pinch of cinnamon 0 Butter or oil for cooking 0 Maple syrup and fresh berries for serving Instructions 1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla extract and cinnamon until well combined. 2. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and add butter or oil. 3. Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, making sure to coat both sides evenly. 4. Place the coated bread slices onto the hot skillet and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 2–3 minutes per side. 5. Serve hot with maple syrup and fresh berries. Avocado toast with poached egg Avocado toast has become a breakfast staple for its simplicity and nourishing qualities. Adding a perfectly poached egg takes it to the next level, providing a creamy texture and a protein boost. Ingredients 0 2 slices of bread (sourdough or whole grain) 0 1 ripe avocado 0 2 eggs 0 Salt and pepper to taste 0 Optional toppings: cherry tomatoes, feta cheese and red pepper flakes Instructions 1. Toast the bread slices to your desired level of crispiness. 2. Meanwhile, mash the ripe avocado in a bowl and season with salt and pepper. 3. Poach the eggs to your preferred doneness. 4. Spread the mashed avocado evenly on the toasted bread slices. 5. Top each slice with a poached egg and sprinkle with additional salt and pepper. 6. Garnish with optional toppings like sliced cherry tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, if desired. Cinnamon sugar toast For a quick and comforting breakfast treat, cinnamon sugar toast is a classic choice. It’s easy to make and perfect for satisfying those sweet cravings. Ingredients 0 4 slices of bread (any type) 0 Butter, softened 0 2 tablespoons of granulated Bread is a classic breakfast staple enjoyed worldwide. – FREEPIK oKickstart your day with these four easy and delicious recipes █ BYTHASHINE SELVAKUMARAN French toast. – NATASHA KITCHEN sugar 0 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon Instructions 1. Preheat the oven broiler. 2. Spread a thin layer of softened butter on each slice of bread. 3. In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. 4. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the buttered bread slices. 5. Place the prepared slices on a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 1-2 minutes, or until the sugar is caramelised and bubbly. 6. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Breakfast grilled cheese sandwich Grilled cheese sandwiches are not just for lunch or dinner – they also make a fantastic breakfast option when filled with eggs, cheese, and your favourite toppings. Ingredients 0 4 slices of bread (white, whole wheat, or sourdough) 0 2 eggs 0 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese 0 2 slices of cooked bacon or ham (optional) 0 Butter, softened 0 Salt and pepper to taste Instructions 1. Heat a skillet over medium heat. 2. In a small bowl, beat the eggs and season with salt and pepper. 3. Pour the beaten eggs into the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until Avocado toast with poached egg. – MASHED Cinnamon sugar toast. – FOOD.COM Grilled cheese sandwich. – WISCONSIN CHEESE scrambled and set. 4. Spread a thin layer of softened butter on one side of each bread slice. 5. Place two slices of bread, butter side down, onto a clean surface. 6. Top each slice with scrambled eggs, shredded cheddar cheese, and cooked bacon or ham if using. 7. Place the remaining bread slices on top, butter side up, to form sandwiches. 8. Carefully transfer the sandwiches to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted. 9. Serve hot and enjoy your breakfast grilled cheese sandwiches. Breakfast banana toast This recipe takes simple toast and elevates it with creamy peanut butter, sweet sliced bananas and a hint of honey. It’s a quick and satisfying breakfast option that is perfect for busy mornings. Ingredients 0 4 slices of bread (whole wheat or multigrain) 0 1 ripe banana, thinly sliced 0 4 tablespoons peanut butter 0 Honey, for drizzling (optional) Instructions 1. Toast the bread slices until golden brown and crispy. 2. Spread a generous layer of peanut butter on each slice of toast. 3. Arrange the sliced bananas on top of the peanut butter. 4. Drizzle with honey, if desired, for a touch of sweetness. 5. Serve immediately and enjoy this delicious and nutritious breakfast banana toast.

SCAN ME powered by Contributing Editor Keshy Dhillon / [email protected] Editorial T: 03-7784 6688 F: 03-7785 2625 E: [email protected] Advertising T: 03-7784 8888 E: [email protected] FRIDAY | MAR 8, 2024 HONDA has been a prominent player in the SUV segment since 1995, which is when the first generation CR-V was introduced. In 2002, the second generation debuted, 2007 the third, 2012 the fourth, 2017 the fifth and now, we have the sixth-generation CR-V. We drove the sixth-generation SUV in Thailand back in November 2023 before it was introduced here in Malaysia in December and were immediately blown away by its refinement and features. In Malaysia, the CR-V comes in four variants, the S, E, V and the top of the line e:HEV RS. It truly stands out in the C-segment of SUVs, rivalling models like the Volkswagen Tiguan and Mazda CX-5. During a recent test drive to Penang, we got to drive the V variant and the e:HEV RS variant. The V variant, priced at RM181,900, features a 1.5 litre turbocharged inline-four petrol engine with direct injection that produces 193PS and 243Nm of torque. The e:HEV RS on the other hand is priced at RM195,900, and features a 2.0 litre naturally-aspirated Atkinsoncycle inline-four petrol power plant with direct injection that has an output of 148PS and 190Nm of torque. Why is it so lower? Well, because it has an electric motor which has an output of 184PS and 335Nm of torque. No, this is not a combined output. The engine simply acts as a generator that charges up the battery which sends power to the frontmounted electric motor. Through a lock-up clutch, the engine can drive the front wheels directly at higher speeds whenever it is more efficient to do so. So, efficiency is what the e:HEV model does best. Visually, we find the CR-V to be stunning, especially with the new Canyon River Blue Metallic colour option. The hybrid variant even has an active grille shutter, which has been around since 2017 on models like the Odyssey. But the most eye-catching feature are the taillights. Yes, some might say it looks similar to the Volvo and so on, but that’s a debate for another day. On the CR-V however, it’s a nice finish to the “elegant”, yet sporty look. The standard rims look good, especially the black trim ones that are found on the e:HEV RS. So there is no need to do a rim change. Even if you wanted to, especially for the hybrid variant, you would be making a huge mistake. The hybrid variant comes with wheel resonators which we have actually talked about previously. To simplify it, the resonators assist with noise reduction in the cabin, suppressing annoying road noises, especially on long drives. Speaking of long drives, we drove the V variant from Kuala Lumpur to Penang and the hybrid variant from Penang back. Immediately we noticed what a prominent role those resonators play. The road noise that we were hearing in the cabin from the V spec was very obvious but tolerable and in the hybrid variant, that noise was noticeably suppressed. So, kudos to Honda for taking this into consideration. We asked Honda Malaysia why the resonators were not fitted into the New Honda CR-V sets new benchmark for Japanese SUVs █ BY TIMOTHY PRAKASH SPECIFICATIONS Comfort, space and augmented sound. LaneWatch and its slow wireless charging. CR-V V variant – 1.5 V AWD Engine: 1.5 litre DOHC VTEC Turbo engine Power: 193PS @ 6000rpm Torque: 243Nm from 1,700 to 5,000rpm Gearbox: CVT 0-100kph: 10.4 seconds Top speed: 200kph Price: RM181,900 CR-V e:HEV RS Engine: 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder, DOHC Power: 184PS @ 5,000rpm Torque: 335Nm @ 2000rpm Gearbox: e-CVT 0-100kph: 9 seconds Top speed: 187kph Price: RM195,900 Perfection redefined Honda CR-V 1.5 Turbo. Honda CR-V e:HEV RS.

MOTORING MOTORING FRIDAY | MAR 8, 2024 25 lower variants and Honda stated: “The resonators were designed specifically for the hybrid variant for higher noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) performance, which is why the other variants do not have it.” On the topic of noise in the cabin, the V spec has a screaming CVT gearbox that may annoy you, especially once you reach higher engine speeds. However, there is one feature that the V spec has on the inside that we wish the e:HEV had; the wood trim that can be found on the dashboard and door panels. The e:HEV comes with a silver metallic film trim that is not too bad but lacks the elegant finish that the V spec has. Maybe Honda was going with a more sporty feel that is portrayed by the “RS” trim which features red stitching on the inside. The term “sporty” is not only applied to the looks of the e:HEV RS, but also to the whole driving experience. There are three driving modes to choose from, which consists of Econ, Normal and Sport. It basically enhances the throttle feel and response, and in Sports mode, it is more eager to respond to any demand. Besides that, the e:HEV RS also does not have a gearbox per say besides for a simpler box for reverse and forward drives. It just does not have ratios in the traditional sense. Honda calls this an e-CVT, perhaps because it would be too complicated to explain to its customers how it works. To add to the driving pleasure, Honda also included a neat little feature called Active Sound Control (ASC). What this does is that it provides amplified engine sounds and gearshifting sounds piped back to the cabin through the audio system. According to Honda, this sound was built from scratch and was not based on the sound created by any internal combustion engine. It was built around what many may consider “sporty” and we were not disappointed at all. It sounds believable and does not have an annoying drone sound like some cars. So we enjoyed hitting the throttle, adhering to the speed limits, of course. This was a four-hour drive. So was it comfortable? Yes. We took turns driving and, bear in mind that we aren’t exactly the smallest of people, length and width. As mentioned earlier, Honda takes these things into consideration because the CR-V features bodystabilising seats for front passengers. The enhanced structure in the back of the seat increases lumbar and pelvic support to create a body-stabilising effect. This helps to prevent fatigue, particularly in the hip and waist area of occupants on longer journeys. On the way back to KL, we did not do a swap driver so we only had one driver, which is this writer and I drove all the way without making any stops. Not even to empty my tank or fill up the car’s tank. So yes, I can confirm that it is most definitely comfortable. We even tested the stability of both variants and how they handled the winding roads of Batu Ferringhi. With the hybrid variant, it was smooth and easy, had enough power to shoot out of corners and felt a little bit more stable. The V spec, however, had a more heavier feel on the steering wheel which did not make the turns feel as smooth. But both variants kept the front passengers in place because of the seats. If you’re a family man with kids at the back, this will not matter because you aren’t supposed to be shooting out of corners anyway. If you do have kids, the CR-V comes with rear ISOFIX child seat anchors and you will not have to worry about baggage space as it comes with 589- litre of boot space. When it comes to prioritising the safety of both you and your family, the CR-V ensures peace of mind with an array of advanced safety features. These include eight airbags strategically positioned throughout the vehicle, encompassing front, side, side curtain, and knee protection. Additionally, the CR-V is equipped with enhanced stability provided by the Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) system, complemented by Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist for optimal braking performance. The Auto Brake Hold feature offers convenience in traffic, while Hill Start Assist and Hill Descent Control bolster confidence in challenging terrain. Agile Handle Assist (AHA) contributes to responsive handling, and the Emergency Stop Signal alerts surrounding vehicles in sudden braking situations. Seat belt reminders for all seats ensure occupants’ restraint, while Auto Door Lock adds an extra layer of security. Active Noise Control fosters a serene cabin environment, while the Honda Connect telematics system keeps you connected on the go. The Honda Sensing driver assistance suite encompasses advanced features such as Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Autonomous Emergency Braking (CMBS), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow (LSF), Road Departure Mitigation (RDM), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Lane Keeping Assist (LKAS), and Automatic High Beams (AHD). Furthermore, the Lead Car Departure Notification feature enhances driving awareness, collectively ensuring a safer and more confident driving experience. As for entertainment, the e:HEV RS features a 10.2-inch TFT fully digital instrument panel and a 12-speaker Bose Premium audio system which is the first time that Honda Malaysia is offering a premium sound system for its locally-assembled model. However, there is one thing that we wish Honda would fix – the LaneWatch system. We get that it is helpful to watch out for vehicles nearby, but when you turn on the left indicator, the LaneWatch system just overrides the entire infotainment system which means, you won’t be able to see your GPS screen until you turn off the indicator. And this can be particularly annoying when you need to watch out for where to turn next. Thankfully, we managed to drive this SUV around Penang without bumping into anything or anyone. We say this because the new body, compared to the previous generation, has an 80mm increase in length, 10mm in width, and a 40mm greater wheelbase. The enormity of the new CRV is hard to describe, but as soon as you see it, you will realise how big it is. Despite being bigger and heavier, which we thought might result in higher fuel consumption, we saw the opposite. After fuelling up in Penang, we had a total range of 778km in the hybrid variant. Upon arrival in KL, we had 280km left. The V spec does not lack in this department too as we did not have to fuel up on the way to Penang. Overall, the CR-V presents itself as the ultimate SUV for the price, excelling in comfort, space, and driving experience. It is no surprise then that Honda Malaysia has already sold over 6,000 units in just three months. The 1.5 Turbo steering wheel. Push start button. 10.2-inch TFT fully digital instrument panel. 1.5 Turbo gearbox. 1.5 Turbo speedometer. Honda CR-V e: HEV RS Bose speaker. The e:HEV RS tailights. CR-V e: HEV RS rims. Shark Fin Antenna

MOTORING MOTORING FRIDAY | MAR 8, 2024 26 VOLVO CAR MALAYSIA has introduced the updated model year 2024 version of the C40 Recharge Pure Electric, marking Volvo’s commitment to electrification and sustainability. This crossover SUV, Volvo’s first electric-only model, now offers impressive enhancements, including an extended electric range of up to 550km, faster DC charging capabilities for its larger 82kWh battery pack, and advanced pixel headlight technology. In Malaysia, Volvo presents the top-of-theline variant featuring a twin motor, all-wheeldrive (AWD) configuration. This variant showcases a more powerful second-generation permanent magnet rear electric motor, developed in-house by Volvo. With an output of 245hp at the rear axle and a new 156hp asynchronous electric motor at the front axle, the new configuration emphasises rear power delivery, enhancing the driving experience with a maximum power output of 402hp. Moreover, the upgraded 82kWh battery pack, an improvement from the previous 78kWh capacity, now supports a higher maximum input of 200kW for DC charging. This enhancement enables a remarkable 10 to 80 per cent charge in just 27 minutes, significantly reducing charging times. Coupled with the efficiency improvements in battery cooling and the new twin-motor configuration, the updated C40 Recharge Pure Electric boasts a substantially improved range, offering 100km more than its predecessor. These improvements make the fully electric models even more attractive than they already were and are a big step towards becoming a fully electric car maker by 2030. Designed from the ground up to be fully electric, the Volvo C40 Recharge Pure Electric features a distinctive design and cutting-edge safety technology, making it a standout in the compact SUV segment. The 2024 model year upgrades further solidify Volvo’s position as a leader in the e-luxury segment. Additional enhancements include new pixel headlights with sensor-controlled forward lighting, new 19-inch alloy wheels for improved aerodynamics, and a new exterior colour option, Vapour Grey, joining the existing range of colourways. Customers can enjoy 5-year complimentary Digital Services, providing access to Google Assistant, Google Maps, Google Play Store, and remote functions through the Volvo Cars app. Despite these significant upgrades, the updated Recharge Pure Electric maintains a similar price point to its predecessor at RM288,888, offering flexible financing options and lower interest rates through Volvo Car Financial Services. To make ownership more accessible, Volvo Car Malaysia is offering an instant rebate of RM10,000 for online orders of the Volvo C40 Recharge Pure Electric placed before 31 March 2024. Bookings for all Volvo fully electric cars can be conveniently made online at www.volvocars.com/my/cars/c40-electric. MG4 EV estimated price starting at RM104k SAIC Motor Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. has introduced the specifications and pricing details for its highly anticipated MG models – the all-new MG4 and MG ZS EV. These cutting-edge all-electric vehicles are designed to provide customers with a seamless fusion of technology, affordability, and driving excellence, and are now open for bookings. The MG4 is set to revolutionize the Malaysian automotive landscape with its all-electric hatchback design, offering customers an affordable option for zero-emission driving without compromising on performance. Available in four specifications – MG4 Standard, MG4 Lux, Lux Extended Range, and the high-performance MG4 XPOWER. The MG4 lineup offers a range of options to suit different preferences and budgets. Starting with the MG4 Standard at RM104,000, customers can opt for additional features and luxuries with the MG4 Lux priced at RM129,000. For those seeking an extended range, the MG4 Lux Extended Range is available at RM149,000. For enthusiasts looking for enhanced performance, the MG4 XPOWER variant is offered at RM159,000. The all-electric MG4 comes with a 7-year or 150,000km warranty on the vehicle and an 8-year or 180,000km warranty on the battery. The MG4 is offered in seven vibrant colours, including Volcano Orange, Holborn Blue, Dynamic Red, Arctic White, Camden Grey, Black Pearl, Monument Silver, and an exclusive matte option of Racing Green for the MG4 XPOWER. Lux and Extended Range variants also offer a twotone black roof option. MGZS EV now available for booking SAIC Motor Malaysia Sdn Bhd has introduced the specifications and pricing details for its highly anticipated MG models – the all-new MG4 and MG ZS EV. These cutting-edge all-electric vehicles are designed to provide customers with a seamless fusion of technology, affordability, and driving excellence, and are now open for bookings. The all-new MG ZS EV sets a new standard for electric vehicles, offering unparalleled value with its seamless blend of practicality, innovation, and comfort. Available from an estimated RM129,000, this B-segment SUV delivers exceptional performance and efficiency. Equipped with a 51.1kWh Li-Ion battery, the MG ZS EV Lux variant offers an impressive driving range of 320km based on the WLTP cycle. Its electric motor delivers exhilarating performance, with a maximum output of 176PS power and 280Nm of torque. Accelerating from 0-100kph in just 8 seconds, the MG ZS EV provides a thrilling driving experience without compromising on efficiency. The bold and modern design of the MG ZS EV features a grill-less front end exuding urban confidence, complemented by “Silverstone” headlights and “Phantom” LED taillights. The charging port, located at the front, offers easier access with a spring-loaded cover for better sealing. Inside, the modernised interior boasts a carbon fibre-look finish on the dashboard and a touchscreen control system for seamless connectivity. The all-digital 7 multiinformation display provides essential information, while features like wireless phone charging, rear passenger central armrest, and auto climate control enhance comfort and convenience. Experience the outdoors like never before with the class-leading panoramic sunroof, while the spacious luggage compartment offers ample storage for all your adventures, with a volume ranging between 448 and 1,187 litres. Safety is paramount with the MG ZS EV, equipped with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) under the name MG Pilot. Features such as Front Collision Warning (FCW), Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), and Lane Departure Warning (LDW) provide peace of mind on every journey. Like its counterpart, the MG4, the MG ZS EV comes with a comprehensive warranty package, including 7 years or 150,000 km on the vehicle and 8 years or 180,000 km on the battery. Four vibrant colours will be available: Dynamic Red, Arctic White, Black Pearl, and Monument Silver. BYD Yangwang U9 officially launched BYD, a renowned pioneer in new energy vehicles and power batteries, presents the debut of its first pure electric supercar model, the U9, under its high-end sub-brand, YANGWANG. Priced at 1.68 million RMB (RM1,114,756), the U9 is slated to commence deliveries starting this June. Embodying the signature “Time Gate” design language, the Yangwang U9 showcases a distinct aesthetic characterised by unique proportions, tension, and power, affirming its status as a true pure electric supercar. Powered by two cutting-edge technologies – the e4 platform and the DiSus-X Intelligent Body Control System – the U9 redefines the pure electric supercar segment by seamlessly integrating track performance, street adaptability, and playful features. The e4 Platform serves as the powerhouse, boasting four independent electric motors for agile and precise four-wheel torque output control. With a staggering 1,300hp and a maximum torque of 1680Nm, the U9 ensures the ultimate in safety, performance, and driving experience. The BYD DiSus-X Intelligent Body Control System marks another groundbreaking advancement, enabling the U9 to achieve unmatched adjustability with a maximum suspension travel of up to 75mm. Its rapid lifting capabilities, reaching up to 500mm/s, deliver unparalleled agility and comfort across various driving scenarios. In performance tests, the Yangwang U9 achieved remarkable feats, including a top speed of 309.19kph and a blistering 0-100km/h acceleration in just 2.36 seconds. With rigorous track testing, the U9’s thermal management system has been optimised to withstand high temperatures, doubling the maximum cooling capacity. Equipped with advanced aerodynamic packages, the U9 boasts a Super Carbon-fibre Cabin structure and next-generation Cell to Body (CTB) technology, ensuring unmatched torsional stiffness and comprehensive travel safety. Inside the cockpit, the Yangwang U9 features two 14-way adjustable seats for an enhanced driving experience, complemented by the Dynaudio Evidence Series high-end audio system, offering an immersive auditory journey. The 127-color ambient lighting system complements the twin dashboard, which gives passengers a cockpit-like feeling. A 12.3-inch portrait touchscreen with mini-LEDs that is not rotatable operates the infotainment system, while a 10.25-inch mini-LED digital instrument display faces the driver. Volvo unveils enhanced 2024 C40 RPE

IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF NEWSMAN REALTY SDN. BHD. (Registration No. 201801020782 (1282801-H)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding Up) NOTICE OF FINAL MEETING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to Section 459 of the Companies Act, 2016 that a Final Meeting of the Members of the Company will be held at Level 7, 33B Jalan Pahang, 10400 Georgetown, Pulau Pinang on Monday, 8th April 2024 at 10.30 a.m. for the following purposes:- 1. To receive an account from the Liquidators showing the manner in which the winding up has been conducted and to receive any explanation thereon; 2. To determine pursuant to Section 518(3)(b) of the Companies Act, 2016 the manner in which the books, accounts and documents of the Company and of the Liquidators thereof shall be disposed of. NOTICE IS ALSO HEREBY GIVEN that an account of the receipts and payments of the Company have been made up to 8th March 2024 and is opened for inspection by any creditor or contributory of the Company at the Liquidators’ Office, Level 7, 33B Jalan Pahang, 10400 Georgetown, Pulau Pinang between the hours of 9.00 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. and 2.30 p.m. to 4.30 p.m., Monday to Friday except public holiday. ONG KHAI JIET LIQUIDATOR Dated this 8th day of March, 2024 Note:- A member of the Company entitled to attend and vote at the above meeting is entitled to appoint a proxy in his or her stead. A proxy may but need not be a member of the Company. The instrument appointing a proxy must be deposited at the Liquidator’s Office, Level 7, 33B Jalan Pahang, 10400 Georgetown, Pulau Pinang, not less than fortyeight (48) hours before the time set for the meeting. 322 Notices If you feel you have what it takes, to join us in the interesting media industry, send your resume (together with a photo of you) via email to [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 DALAM MAHKAMAH MAJISTRET DI KUALA LUMPUR DALAM NEGERI WILAYAH PERSEKUTUAN, MALAYSIA GUAMAN NO .: WA-A72NCVC-9570-12/2023 ANTARA TINAJIT KAUR A/P KALWANT SINGH (No. K/P : 850212-08-6776) (Bertindak dalam kapasitinya sebagai Wasi dan Pemegang Amanah kepada Si Mati, Kalwant Singh A/L Ujagar Singh melalui Geran Probet bertarikh 30.11.2022 yang diperoleh di Mahkamah Tinggi Shah Alam) PLAINTIF DAN LAU AH TECK (No. K/P: 750814-10-5665) (Berniaga dalam jenis Perniagaan Milik Tunggal di bawah gaya dan Nama “Green Elephant Thai Family Spa” [(No. Pendaftaran: 201903263404 (SA0529380-K)] DEFENDAN NOTIS PENYAMPAIAN GANTI DALAM BENTUK IKLAN Kepada: LAU AH TECK No. 16-2 (2nd Floor), Jalan 23/70A, Desa Sri Hartamas, 50480 Kuala Lumpur Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Dan/Atau LAU AH TECK L1-3A Cova Square, Jalan Teknologi, PJU5, Kota Damansara, 47810 Petaling Jaya Selangor Darul Ehsan. Dan/Atau LAU AH TECK 61-2, Jalan PJU 5/20, Kota Damansara, 47810 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan. Dan/Atau LAU AH TECK No. 21-2-1, Lorong Batu Nilam 1A Bandar Bukit Tinggi, 41200 Klang Selangor Darul Ehsan AMBIL PERHATIAN bahawa suatu tindakan telah dimulakan terhadap kamu di Mahkamah Majistret di Kuala Lumpur dalam Guaman Sivil No. WAA72NCVC-9570-12/2023 oleh Tinajit Kaur a/p Kalwant Singh yang beralamat di No. 10, Lorong 8/3E, Seksyen 8, 46050 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan yang mana tuntutan Plaintif ialah untuk: (a) serahan milikan kosong Premis tersebut dalam tempoh tujuh (7) hari daripada tarikh penghakiman; (b) sewa-sewa yang tertunggak sebanyak RM12,215.00 setakat 16.12.2023; (c) Sewa yang perlu dibayar oleh Defendan dalam jumlah dua (2) kali ganda menurut Seksyen 28(4)(a) Akta Undang-Undang Sivil 1956 terhadap kerugian yang dialami oleh Plaintif daripada 16.9.2023 sehingga tarikh penghakiman dan/atau sehingga Defendan menyerahkan milikan kosong Premis tersebut; (d) Kos membaikpuih dan/atau kos penyelenggaran sebanyak RM14,090.00 bagi Premis tersebut yang mana telah dirosakkan oleh Defendan semasa tempoh penyewaan sehingga milikan kosong diserahkan menurut Klausa-Klausa 5 dan 6 Perjanjian tersebut atau secara alternatif, kerugian yang dialami oleh Plaintif bagi kerosakkan Premis tersebut untuk ditaksirkan oleh Mahkamah yang Mulia ini; (e) Deposit sebanyak RM9,135.00 yang dibayar oleh Defendan kepada Plaintif menurut Klausa 3 dan 4 Perjanjian tersebut disimpan/ dilucuthakkan(“retained/forfeited”);dan (f) kos dan bahawa telah diperintahkan yang penyampaian Writ dan Pernyataan Tuntutan tersebut kepada kamu dalam tindakan tersebut hendaklah dilaksanakan melalui iklan ini dan penyampaian ini dianggap sempurna danmencukupi selepas tujuh (7) hari dari tarikh akhir penampalan atau pengiklanan yang mana terkemudian. SILA AMBIL PERHATIAN bahawa tindakanini telah ditetapkan untuk Pengurusan Kes secara e-Review pada 13.3.2024 jam 9.00 pagi. Jika kamu berhasrat untuk membela tindakan ini kamu mestilah dalam tempoh Empat Belas (14) hari selepas penyampaian Writ dan Pernyataan Tuntutan ini, tidak termasuk hari penyampaian menyebabkan kehadiran dimasukkan mengenai Writ ini DAN AMBIL PERHATIAN bahawa jika kamu tidak memasukkan kehadiran, Penghakiman Ingkar Kehadiran itu boleh diberikan terhadap kamu. Bertarikh pada 7 Februari 2024. ………..…t.t………..… Tetuan Ghazi & Lim Peguamcara Plaintif Notis Iklan ini difailkan oleh Tetuan Ghazi & Lim yang beralamat penyampaian di Tingkat 12, Unit 8, Wisma New Asia (dahulunya dikenali sebagai Wisma MPL), Jalan Raja Chulan, 50200 Kuala Lumpur, Peguamcara bagi Plaintif. [Ruj: T10/23/MRG/PVK Tel: 03-2145 0177 Faks 03- 2141 3882] POSE TALENT MANAGEMENT PLT 202204001004 (LLP0031280-LGN) (In Members’ Voluntary ,Winding-Up) NOTICE OF VOLUNTARY WINDING UP NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to Section 50 of the Limited Liability Partnerships Act 2012, the partners would like to apply for voluntary winding up of the limited liability partnership – POSE TALENT MANAGEMENT PLT 202204001004 (LLP0031280-LGN) The limited liability partnership has ceased to operate and has discharged all its debts and liabilities, other than those owed to its partners. The notice required under Section 50(4) of the Limited Liability Partnerships Act 2012 has been given to all the partners in accordance with this subsection A written notice from the Inland Revenue Board stating that it has no objection to the Registrar making a declaration of dissolution of the limited liability partnership has been obtained LOW KAR SIN (NRIC No. 851222-14-5359) Partner Dated this 8th March, 2024 Rumah Banglo Dua Tingkat, Keluasan 427 meter persegi, Leasehold. Alamat: Taman Pinggiran Putra Harga Jualan: RM1,100,000.00 Syarat: Jualan Kepada Bumiputera Sahaja Hubungi: 019-4141392 (Ida) RUMAH UNTUK DIJUAL DI SERI KEMBANGAN 168 Houses for Sale SCAN ME FRIDAY MAR 8, 2024 TEL: 03-7784 6688 FAX: 03-7785 2625 EMAIL: [email protected]

SPORTS FRIDAY | MAR 8, 2024 28 DALAM MAHKAMAH TINGGI MALAYA DI MELAKA DALAM NEGERI MELAKA, MALAYSIA SAMAN PEMULA NO: MA - 24F - 78 - 11 TAHUN 2023 ANTARA CHANDRU A/L SUPARMANIAM (NO. K/P: XXXXXX-04-5183) … PLAINTIF DAN SUMATHI A/P BATUMALAI (NO. K/P: XXXXXX-30-5250) … DEFENDAN NOTIS IKLAN [Penyampaian Ganti] Kepada: SUMATHI A/P BATUMALAI (NO. K/P: XXXXXX-30-5250) NO. 8, PT 5747, JALAN ROS 6/2, TAMAN ROS, 71700 MANTIN, NEGERI SEMBILAN DARUL KHUSUS. AMBIL PERHATIAN bahawa suatu Permohonan bagi hak penjagaan anak-anak keluarga telah difailkan terhadap kamu di Mahkamah ini oleh CHANDRU A/L SUPARMANIAM (NO K/P: XXXXXX-04-5183) yang beralamat penyampaian di No. 2006, Lorong Sidang Omar, Off Jalan Penghulu Abbas, 75150 Bukit Baru, Melaka dan Mahkamah telah memerintahkan supaya Permohonan tersebut disampaikan kepada kamu bersama-sama Perintah itu melalui penyampaian ganti dengan menampalnya di Papan Notis Mahkamah Tinggi Melaka, dengan mengeposnya secara pos pra-bayar biasa ke alamat terakhir kamu yang diketahui di No. 8, PT 5747, Jalan Ros 6/2, Taman Ros, 71700 Mantin, Negeri Sembilan Darul Khusus dan dengan menyiarkan sekali Notis Iklan dalam akhbar tempatan iaitu The Sun, Selangor State/Section dan bahawa penampalan, pengeposan dan penyiaran sedemikian adalah penyampaian yang baik dan mencukupi ke atas kamu selepas 14 hari dari tarikh perlaksanaan akhir penyampaian ganti tersebut.. DAN SELANJUTNYA AMBIL PERHATIAN bahawa jika kamu ingin didengar atau membela Permohonan tersebut, kamu mestilah dalam tempoh 14 hari selepas penyampaian yang berkesan ke atas kamu, termasuk hari penyampaian tersebut, memasukkan kehadiran di Pejabat Pendaftaran Mahkamah Tinggi Melaka di Kompleks Mahkamah Melaka, Lebuh Ayer Keroh, 75350 Ayer Keroh, Melaka. Jika tiada kehadiran sedemikian diterima, Perintah sebagaimana patut boleh diberikan terhadap kamu. Bertarikh 29 Februari 2024 T.T. ……………………………... PEGUAMCARA PLAINTIF NOTIS IKLAN [Penyampaian Ganti] ini telah dibuat oleh Tetuan Damian S. L. Yeo & L. C. Goh, Peguambela & Peguamcara, Peguamcara bagi pihak Plaintif yang memiliki alamat untuk penyampaian di No. 2006, Lorong Sidang Omar, Off Jalan Penghulu Abbas, 75150 Bukit Baru, Melaka. [No. Ruj: DY/F(CUS)/CS/SB/A1325/23/KK] (Tel: 06-234 7011/7012) (Email: [email protected]) 322 Notices IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF JVC CAPITAL SDN. BHD. Company No: 201301012057 (1041895-D) (IN MEMBERS’ VOLUNTARY WINDING UP) NOTICE OF FINAL MEETING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT pursuant to Section 459(2) of the Companies Act, 2016, a Final Meeting of the members of the Company will be held at 55-A, Jalan Perang, Taman Pelangi, 80400 Johor Bahru, Johor on Monday, 8 April 2024 at 10.00 a.m. for the following purposes :- 1. To receive the Liquidator’s account of receipts and payments and statements of distribution among the contributories and to hear any explanations that maybe given by the liquidator; 2. To resolve that under Section 518(3)(b) of the Companies Act 2016, the books, accounts and documents of the Company be destroyed after the expiration of three (3) months from the date of the final meeting. KAM CHAI HONG Liquidator Dated this 8 March 2024 A member entitled to attend and vote at the Meeting is entitled to appoint a proxy to attend and vote in his stead. A proxy need not be a member of the Company. The instrument appointing a proxy has to be deposited at the office of the Liquidator not less than forty-eight hours before the time for holding the Meeting. PERISYTIHARAN JUALAN DALAM MAHKAMAH TINGGI MALAYA DI PULAU PINANG PERMOHONAN UNTUK PERLAKSANAAN NO: PA-38-979-12/2023 Dalam perkara mengenai Seksyen 256 dan 257 Kanun Tanah Negara, 1965 Dan Dalam perkara mengenai Gadaian Perserahan No: 0799SC2014027439 (bertarikh : 12/07/2014) ke atas semua bahagian tanah yang dipegang di bawah Geran No. 123651, Lot 515 Seksyen 16, Mukim Mukim G, Daerah Daerah Barat Daya, Pulau Pinang Dan Dalam perkara mengenai Aturan 83 Kaedah- Kaedah Mahkamah, 2012 ANTARA OCBC BANK (Malaysia) (No. Pendaftaran Perniagaan: 295400-W) ...PLAINTIF DAN SELVARAJAN a/l RAMAN (No. Kad Pengenalan: 780213075891) ...DEFENDAN Menurut Perintah Mahkamah Tinggi Malaya di PULAU PINANG mengenai Perintah Jualan dan Perintah bertarikh 22 Jun 2023 dan 27 Februari 2024, adalah dengan ini diisytiharkan bahawa Timbalan Pendaftar/Penolong Kanan Pendaftar Pusat Operasi e-Lelong di Kuantan AKAN MENJUAL SECARA LELONG AWAM Pada Hari Selasa, 19 Mac 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. 123651 No. Lot : Lot 515 Mukim / Daerah / Negeri : Mukim G / Daerah Barat Daya / Pulau Pinang Pegangan : Hakmilik Kekal No. Petak/No. Tingkat/ No. Bangunan : Palmyra Residences Keluasan Tanah : 1238.0000000000 kaki persegi 115.0000000000 meter persegi Pemilik Berdaftar : Selvarajan a/l Raman Syarat Nyata : FIRST GRADE Sekatan Kepentingan : Tiada Bebanan / Lain-Lain : Kawasan Rizab : Kaveat : LOKASI DAN PERIHAL HARTANAH : Hartanah tersebut adalah Rumah teres dua tingkat yang beralamat pos di No. 15, Palmyra Residences, Jalan Sungai Nipah 11, 11000, Balik Pulau, Pulau Pinang. HARGA RIZAB : Hartanah tersebut akan dijual atas “seperti sedia ada” tertakluk kepada satu harga rizab sebanyak RM 504,000.00 (RINGGIT MALAYSIA: LIMA RATUS EMPAT RIBUI SAHAJA) dan kepada syarat-syarat jualan yang dilampirkan. Pembida yang berminat hendaklah mendepositkan 10% daripada harga rizab dalam bentuk Bank Draft di atas nama OCBC BANK (MALAYSIA) BERHAD 1 HARI BEKERJA sebelum tarikh lelong awam. Baki harga belian hendaklah dibayar oleh pembida yang berjaya kepada OCBC BANK (MALAYSIA) BERHAD dalam tempoh seratus dua puluh (120) hari dari tarikh jualan. Untuk butir-butir selanjutnya, sila berhubung dengan:- Firma Guaman : SEE RAMSUN & TAN Alamat : 8 TAVOR ROAD, 10050, PG, MY No. Telefon : 04-2295811 No. Fax : 04-2265988 No. Rujukan : LCS/LTK/143/23 DALAM MAHKAMAH SESYEN DI JOHOR BAHRU DALAM NEGERI JOHOR DARUL TAKZIM, MALAYSIA GUAMAN SIVIL NO. JA-A53-26-11/2023 ANTARA MOHD DANIEL BIN ABDULLAH (NO. K/P : 860517-23-5305) ... PLAINTIF DAN NUR DINA BINTI ABDULLAH (NO. K/P: 891107-08-5510) ... DEFENDAN NOTIS PENYAMPAIAN GANTI- BENTUK IKLAN Kepada:- Nur Dina binti Abdullah No. 45, Kampung Muhibbah, 86600 Paloh, Johor. AMBIL PERHATIAN bahawa suatu tindakan Tuntutan Sivil bertarikh 01 November 2023 telah dimulakan di Mahkamah Sesyen Johor Bahru melalui kes No. JA-A53-26-11/2023 oleh Plaintif, Mohd Daniel bin Abdullah yang beralamat di No. 26-A, Jalan Harmonium 21/9, Taman Desa Tebrau, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Takzim. Dan telah diperintahkan melalui Perintah Penyampaian Ganti Mahkamah bertarikh 19 Februari 2023 bahawa, penyampaian satu salinan termeterai Writ Saman bertarikh 01 November 2023, Pernyataan Tuntutan bertarikh 01 November 2023 tersebut kepada kamu dalam tindakan tersebut hendaklah diserahkan melalui penyampaian ganti dengan menampalkan satu salinan kertas-kertas kausa tersebut di papan notis Mahkamah Sesyen Johor Bahru dan di alamat terakhir Responden di No. 45, Kampung Muhibbah, 86600 Paloh, Johor dan dengan mengiklankan Notis ini sekali di dalam akhbar tempatan The Sun. Penampalan dan pengiklanan tersebut hendaklah dianggap penyampaian sempurna dan cukup ke atas kamu tujuh (7) hari selepas tarikh penampalan dan pengiklanan tersebut. Sekiranya kamu berhasrat untuk membantah Tuntutan Sivil ini, kamu mestilah dalam tempoh tujuh (7) hari daripada penyampaian ganti ini menghadirikan diri sama ada secara sendiri atau melalui peguambela kamu di Mahkamah, yang mana kegagalan untuk memasukkan kehadiran akan menyebabkan suatu Perintah seperti dipohon oleh Mohd Daniel bin Abdullah direkodkan terhadap kamu dalam ketidakhadiran kamu. SILA AMBIL PERHATIAN bahawa Tuntutan Sivil tersebut ditetapkan untuk pendengaran di hadapan Hakim pada 18 Mac 2024 pada 9:00 pagi bertempat di Mahkamah Sesyen Sivil Johor Bahru, Tingkat 25, Menara MSC Cyberport,No. 5 Jalan Bukit Meldrum, 80300 Johor Bahru, Johor. Bertarikh pada 19 Februari 2024. T.T ……………………… Tetuan G. K. Sritharan & Co. NOTIS PENYAMPAIAN GANTI-BENTUK IKLAN ini difailkan oleh Tetuan G.K. Sritharan & Co., Peguambela dan Peguamcara yang mempunyai alamat di Unit 6.05, Tingkat 6, Menara TJB, No. 9, Jalan Syed Mohd Mufti, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, peguamcara Plaintif (Ruj No.: GKS/LIT/3391/22). 322 Notices DALAM MAHKAMAH TINGGI MALAYA DI MELAKA DALAM NEGERI MELAKA, MALAYSIA SAMAN PEMULA NO: MA - 24F - 78 - 11 TAHUN 2023 ANTARA CHANDRU A/L SUPARMANIAM (NO. K/P: XXXXXX-04-5183) … PLAINTIF DAN SUMATHI A/P BATUMALAI (NO. K/P: XXXXXX-30-5250) … DEFENDAN NOTIS IKLAN [Penyampaian Ganti] Kepada: SUMATHI A/P BATUMALAI (NO. K/P: XXXXXX-30-5250) NO. 8, PT 5747, JALAN ROS 6/2, TAMAN ROS, 71700 MANTIN, NEGERI SEMBILAN DARUL KHUSUS. AMBIL PERHATIAN bahawa suatu Permohonan bagi hak penjagaan anak-anak keluarga telah difailkan terhadap kamu di Mahkamah ini oleh CHANDRU A/L SUPARMANIAM (NO K/P: XXXXXX-04-5183) yang beralamat penyampaian di No. 2006, Lorong Sidang Omar, Off Jalan Penghulu Abbas, 75150 Bukit Baru, Melaka dan Mahkamah telah memerintahkan supaya Permohonan tersebut disampaikan kepada kamu bersama-sama Perintah itu melalui penyampaian ganti dengan menampalnya di Papan Notis Mahkamah Tinggi Melaka, dengan mengeposnya secara pos pra-bayar biasa ke alamat terakhir kamu yang diketahui di No. 8, PT 5747, Jalan Ros 6/2, Taman Ros, 71700 Mantin, Negeri Sembilan Darul Khusus dan dengan menyiarkan sekali Notis Iklan dalam akhbar tempatan iaitu The Sun, Selangor State/Section dan bahawa penampalan, pengeposan dan penyiaran sedemikian adalah penyampaian yang baik dan mencukupi ke atas kamu selepas 14 hari dari tarikh perlaksanaan akhir penyampaian ganti tersebut.. DAN SELANJUTNYA AMBIL PERHATIAN bahawa jika kamu ingin didengar atau membela Permohonan tersebut, kamu mestilah dalam tempoh 14 hari selepas penyampaian yang berkesan ke atas kamu, termasuk hari penyampaian tersebut, memasukkan kehadiran di Pejabat Pendaftaran Mahkamah Tinggi Melaka di Kompleks Mahkamah Melaka, Lebuh Ayer Keroh, 75350 Ayer Keroh, Melaka. Jika tiada kehadiran sedemikian diterima, Perintah sebagaimana patut boleh diberikan terhadap kamu. Bertarikh 29 Februari 2024 T.T. ……………………………... PEGUAMCARA PLAINTIF NOTIS IKLAN [Penyampaian Ganti] ini telah dibuat oleh Tetuan Damian S. L. Yeo & L. C. Goh, Peguambela & Peguamcara, Peguamcara bagi pihak Plaintif yang memiliki alamat untuk penyampaian di No. 2006, Lorong Sidang Omar, Off Jalan Penghulu Abbas, 75150 Bukit Baru, Melaka. [No. Ruj: DY/F(CUS)/CS/SB/A1325/23/KK] (Tel: 06-234 7011/7012) (Email: [email protected]) 322 Notices IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF JVC CAPITAL SDN. BHD. Company No: 201301012057 (1041895-D) (IN MEMBERS’ VOLUNTARY WINDING UP) NOTICE OF FINAL MEETING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT pursuant to Section 459(2) of the Companies Act, 2016, a Final Meeting of the members of the Company will be held at 55-A, Jalan Perang, Taman Pelangi, 80400 Johor Bahru, Johor on Monday, 8 April 2024 at 10.00 a.m. for the following purposes :- 1. To receive the Liquidator’s account of receipts and payments and statements of distribution among the contributories and to hear any explanations that maybe given by the liquidator; 2. To resolve that under Section 518(3)(b) of the Companies Act 2016, the books, accounts and documents of the Company be destroyed after the expiration of three (3) months from the date of the final meeting. KAM CHAI HONG Liquidator Dated this 8 March 2024 A member entitled to attend and vote at the Meeting is entitled to appoint a proxy to attend and vote in his stead. A proxy need not be a member of the Company. The instrument appointing a proxy has to be deposited at the office of the Liquidator not less than forty-eight hours before the time for holding the Meeting. PERISYTIHARAN JUALAN DALAM MAHKAMAH TINGGI MALAYA DI PULAU PINANG PERMOHONAN UNTUK PERLAKSANAAN NO: PA-38-979-12/2023 Dalam perkara mengenai Seksyen 256 dan 257 Kanun Tanah Negara, 1965 Dan Dalam perkara mengenai Gadaian Perserahan No: 0799SC2014027439 (bertarikh : 12/07/2014) ke atas semua bahagian tanah yang dipegang di bawah Geran No. 123651, Lot 515 Seksyen 16, Mukim Mukim G, Daerah Daerah Barat Daya, Pulau Pinang Dan Dalam perkara mengenai Aturan 83 Kaedah- Kaedah Mahkamah, 2012 ANTARA OCBC BANK (Malaysia) (No. Pendaftaran Perniagaan: 295400-W) ...PLAINTIF DAN SELVARAJAN a/l RAMAN (No. Kad Pengenalan: 780213075891) ...DEFENDAN Menurut Perintah Mahkamah Tinggi Malaya di PULAU PINANG mengenai Perintah Jualan dan Perintah bertarikh 22 Jun 2023 dan 27 Februari 2024, adalah dengan ini diisytiharkan bahawa Timbalan Pendaftar/Penolong Kanan Pendaftar Pusat Operasi e-Lelong di Kuantan AKAN MENJUAL SECARA LELONG AWAM Pada Hari Selasa, 19 Mac 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. 123651 No. Lot : Lot 515 Mukim / Daerah / Negeri : Mukim G / Daerah Barat Daya / Pulau Pinang Pegangan : Hakmilik Kekal No. Petak/No. Tingkat/ No. Bangunan : Palmyra Residences Keluasan Tanah : 1238.0000000000 kaki persegi 115.0000000000 meter persegi Pemilik Berdaftar : Selvarajan a/l Raman Syarat Nyata : FIRST GRADE Sekatan Kepentingan : Tiada Bebanan / Lain-Lain : Kawasan Rizab : Kaveat : LOKASI DAN PERIHAL HARTANAH : Hartanah tersebut adalah Rumah teres dua tingkat yang beralamat pos di No. 15, Palmyra Residences, Jalan Sungai Nipah 11, 11000, Balik Pulau, Pulau Pinang. HARGA RIZAB : Hartanah tersebut akan dijual atas “seperti sedia ada” tertakluk kepada satu harga rizab sebanyak RM 504,000.00 (RINGGIT MALAYSIA: LIMA RATUS EMPAT RIBUI SAHAJA) dan kepada syarat-syarat jualan yang dilampirkan. Pembida yang berminat hendaklah mendepositkan 10% daripada harga rizab dalam bentuk Bank Draft di atas nama OCBC BANK (MALAYSIA) BERHAD 1 HARI BEKERJA sebelum tarikh lelong awam. Baki harga belian hendaklah dibayar oleh pembida yang berjaya kepada OCBC BANK (MALAYSIA) BERHAD dalam tempoh seratus dua puluh (120) hari dari tarikh jualan. Untuk butir-butir selanjutnya, sila berhubung dengan:- Firma Guaman : SEE RAMSUN & TAN Alamat : 8 TAVOR ROAD, 10050, PG, MY No. Telefon : 04-2295811 No. Fax : 04-2265988 No. Rujukan : LCS/LTK/143/23 DALAM MAHKAMAH SESYEN DI JOHOR BAHRU DALAM NEGERI JOHOR DARUL TAKZIM, MALAYSIA GUAMAN SIVIL NO. JA-A53-26-11/2023 ANTARA MOHD DANIEL BIN ABDULLAH (NO. K/P : 860517-23-5305) ... PLAINTIF DAN NUR DINA BINTI ABDULLAH (NO. K/P: 891107-08-5510) ... DEFENDAN NOTIS PENYAMPAIAN GANTI- BENTUK IKLAN Kepada:- Nur Dina binti Abdullah No. 45, Kampung Muhibbah, 86600 Paloh, Johor. AMBIL PERHATIAN bahawa suatu tindakan Tuntutan Sivil bertarikh 01 November 2023 telah dimulakan di Mahkamah Sesyen Johor Bahru melalui kes No. JA-A53-26-11/2023 oleh Plaintif, Mohd Daniel bin Abdullah yang beralamat di No. 26-A, Jalan Harmonium 21/9, Taman Desa Tebrau, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Takzim. Dan telah diperintahkan melalui Perintah Penyampaian Ganti Mahkamah bertarikh 19 Februari 2023 bahawa, penyampaian satu salinan termeterai Writ Saman bertarikh 01 November 2023, Pernyataan Tuntutan bertarikh 01 November 2023 tersebut kepada kamu dalam tindakan tersebut hendaklah diserahkan melalui penyampaian ganti dengan menampalkan satu salinan kertas-kertas kausa tersebut di papan notis Mahkamah Sesyen Johor Bahru dan di alamat terakhir Responden di No. 45, Kampung Muhibbah, 86600 Paloh, Johor dan dengan mengiklankan Notis ini sekali di dalam akhbar tempatan The Sun. Penampalan dan pengiklanan tersebut hendaklah dianggap penyampaian sempurna dan cukup ke atas kamu tujuh (7) hari selepas tarikh penampalan dan pengiklanan tersebut. Sekiranya kamu berhasrat untuk membantah Tuntutan Sivil ini, kamu mestilah dalam tempoh tujuh (7) hari daripada penyampaian ganti ini menghadirikan diri sama ada secara sendiri atau melalui peguambela kamu di Mahkamah, yang mana kegagalan untuk memasukkan kehadiran akan menyebabkan suatu Perintah seperti dipohon oleh Mohd Daniel bin Abdullah direkodkan terhadap kamu dalam ketidakhadiran kamu. SILA AMBIL PERHATIAN bahawa Tuntutan Sivil tersebut ditetapkan untuk pendengaran di hadapan Hakim pada 18 Mac 2024 pada 9:00 pagi bertempat di Mahkamah Sesyen Sivil Johor Bahru, Tingkat 25, Menara MSC Cyberport,No. 5 Jalan Bukit Meldrum, 80300 Johor Bahru, Johor. Bertarikh pada 19 Februari 2024. T.T ……………………… Tetuan G. K. Sritharan & Co. NOTIS PENYAMPAIAN GANTI-BENTUK IKLAN ini difailkan oleh Tetuan G.K. Sritharan & Co., Peguambela dan Peguamcara yang mempunyai alamat di Unit 6.05, Tingkat 6, Menara TJB, No. 9, Jalan Syed Mohd Mufti, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, peguamcara Plaintif (Ruj No.: GKS/LIT/3391/22). 322 Notices Pivotal moment for F1: Hamilton Important for sport to show and stick to values, says seven-time world champion LEWIS HAMILTON yesterday said Formula One is facing a “pivotal moment” as it battles a series of offtrack controversies early in the new season. The build-up to last weekend’s seasonopening Bahrain Grand Prix was overshadowed by the fall-out caused by Red Bull’s investigation into alleged inappropriate behaviour by its team boss Christian Horner. On Tuesday, motorsport’s governing body the FIA said its compliance department was “assessing” reports that its president Mohammed Ben Sulayem told officials not to certify the track used for last year’s Las Vegas Grand Prix. “It doesn’t look good from the outside and it doesn’t look good from within,” seven-time world champion Hamilton told reporters ahead of this week’s Saudi Arabian Grand Prix. “I think it’s a really important time for the sport to show and to stick to their values, holding ourselves accountable for our actions. “It’s a pivotal moment in terms of what we project to the world and how it’s handled – and it’s not been handled very well to this point. “Transparency is really key. I am hoping to see some progress moving forward, but I hope it is not a year that continues to go on like this, but it does highlight some of the issues we have within the sport.” A BBC report earlier this week also said a whistleblower claimed Mohammed intervened at last year’s Saudi race, when George Russell was briefly promoted to third after Fernando Alonso was penalised because his team touched his car during a penalty pitstop. The penalty was then withdrawn in a review process allegedly influenced by Mohammed and Alonso reinstated in third place. “We want to see all of the facts and just have total transparency really,” said Russell. “We’re all racing here. We all want a fair and level playing field for us to showcase what we can do.” Alonso suggested that the story had resurfaced because Red Bull’s domination on the track was less interesting than the off-track intrigue that has also focused on potential internal problems at Red Bull. – AFP Any team would want Max, says Russell ANY Formula One team would want Max Verstappen given the chance, Mercedes driver George Russell said yesterday amid continued speculation linking Red Bull’s triple world champion to the German manufacturer. Verstappen’s father Jos has fallen out with Red Bull principal Christian Horner, who was cleared last week of misconduct after allegations against him by a female team employee. Verstappen senior had told the Daily Mail that the sport’s dominant team risked being torn apart and would “explode” if Horner stayed. He was also seen with Mercedes boss Toto Wolff, an old friend, during the seasonopening weekend in Bahrain – triggering doubts about his son’s future despite Max having a contract to 2028. Mercedes have a vacancy for 2025 alongside Russell following seven-times world champion Lewis Hamilton’s decision to switch to Ferrari. “I think any team wants to have the best driver line-up possible,” Russell told reporters ahead of the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in Jeddah when asked whether he could see Verstappen at Mercedes. “Right now Max is the best driver on the grid so if any team had a chance to sign Max, they’d 100% be taking it. “I think the question’s more on the other side, on his side and Red Bull’s side. Obviously so much going on there, we don’t know what truly is going on behind closed doors and ultimately it’s none of my business right now. It will be exciting.” – Reuters RAFA NADAL withdrew from Indian Wells yesterday on the eve of his first-round match, saying he is not “ready to play at the highest level”. The 37-year-old Spaniard, who has said he expects to retire after the 2024 season, returned to competition in Brisbane in January after almost a year sidelined with a hip flexor injury, but had to miss the Australian Open with another muscle tear. He lost to Carlos Alcaraz in an exhibition event in Las Vegas on Sunday and appeared ready to compete for a fourth title in the California desert. “It is with great sadness that I have to withdraw from this amazing tournament,” the 22- times Grand Slam champion said in a statement. “Everyone knows how much I love this place and how much I love to play here at Indian Wells. “That’s also one of the reasons why I came very early to the desert to practice and try to get ready. “I have been working hard and practicing and you all know I took a test this weekend but I don’t find myself ready to play at the highest level at such an important event. “It is not an easy decision, it’s a tough one as a matter of fact but I can’t lie to myself and lie to the thousands of fans. I will miss you all and I am sure the tournament will be a great success.” – Reuters Nadal withdraws from Indian Wells

SPORTS SPORTS FRIDAY | MAR 8, 2024 29 Prosecutors want to jail Ancelotti SPANISH prosecutors yesterday called for Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti to be jailed for four years and nine months, saying he had failed to declare earnings to the tax office. The Madrid state prosecutor’s office accused the 64-year-old Italian of having cost Spain’s treasury more than €1 million (RM5m) in undeclared earnings from image rights in 2014 and 2015. “Although he himself declared himself to be a tax resident in Spain and indicated that his home was in Madrid, he only declared in his tax returns the personal remuneration received from Real Madrid,” the tax office said in a statement. It accused Ancelotti of allegedly setting up a “confusing” and “complex” system of shell companies to hide his extra earnings from his image rights as well as from other sources such as real estate. “Nothing to say. It’s an old story, from 2015. The Prosecutor’s Office thinks I was a resident and I was not,” Ancelotti said yesterday after Real Madrid’s Champions League match against FC Copenhagen “The money is already with the Prosecutor’s Office. Now the lawyer is looking for a solution. I think I was not a resident in 2015 and they think I was. Let’s see what the judge says.” Bellingham slams ‘ridiculous’ ban REAL MADRID midfielder Jude Bellingham said his two-match ban for dissent is “ridiculous” and that he is being made an example of as a newer player in La Liga. The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) suspended the 20-year-old for showing contempt towards referee Jesus Gil Manzano after receiving a red card in Real’s 2-2 league draw with Valencia last week. The referee’s report said Bellingham had displayed an “aggressive attitude” when he disputed Manzano’s decision to blow the final whistle as the England international headed in Brahim Diaz’s cross for what would have been the winning goal in added time. “I didn’t think I said anything very offensive towards him,” Bellingham told Movistar after yesterday’s 1-1 draw with RB Leipzig in their Champions League. “I feel like at times because I’m new and stuff, they want to try and make an example… I need to be responsible for my actions, and I gave him the excuse to send me off. “I’m not happy with that. But I think if La Liga and the club appeal, there can be a better agreement, because I think two games is a bit ridiculous.” Enclosed is my payment of RM payable to SUN MEDIA CORPORATION SDN BHD. Please WhatsApp your bank-in slip to 0182929936 or email to [email protected] *Not inclusive of vendor service charge Stay informed with the latest news and trends All the best articles from Monday to Friday 32 pages full colour Subscribe now for Monday-Friday copies of theSun newspaper 6 month subscription (128 issues) for only RM110* (Normal price RM128) 1 year subscription (258 issues) for only RM200* (Normal price RM258) 1 year subscription at normal price RM258* (258 issues) + RM50 administration fee to get 2nd year free PERSONAL PARTICULARS Name: NRIC: Race: Malay Chinese Indian Others Profession: Commencement date: Delivery Address: Residence Ofice Postcode: State: Tel: Mobile No: E-mail: DETAILS OF CURRENT NEWS VENDOR (IF ANY) Vendor name: Contact no: For your convenience, you may call or send in your subscription particulars via any of the following: Tel: KL/PJ 03-7781 4000, 03-7784 6688 (9.30am - 5pm, Monday to Friday) Fax: 03-7781 4484 Post: P.O. 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 Real close call Madrid ‘suffer’ to reach Champions League quarters REAL MADRID scraped through into the Champions League quarterfinals with a 1-1 second-leg draw against RB Leipzig yesterday, progressing 2-1 on aggregate. The record 14-time champions were far below their best but did just enough over the two legs of the last-16 clash to edge out their Bundesliga opponents. Despite Leipzig shading the game, Vinicius Junior opened the scoring in the 65th minute after being set up well by Jude Bellingham. Willi Orban quickly levelled for the visitors but they could not find a second goal to force extra-time at the Santiago Bernabeu. Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti said his team suffered and did not approach the game well mentally. “We played badly, with little intensity, with worries... the psychological aspect conditioned our game a lot,” Ancelotti told Movistar. “We played against an opponent with quality, who had nothing to lose, and we had the brakes on from start to finish – we suffered, but the important thing was to get to the quarterfinals.” “The mental aspect was important. Leipzig tried everything, they are a good team. We have to calmly assess what happened. “At this point in the season we’re seven points clear in the league and we’re in fourth place. We have to be self-critical, but not too critical. “It was not the best night. We have to say mea culpa. Sometimes it can happen in the Champions League. It happened against Chelsea at home in 2022. We never came close to being knocked out.” Ancelotti warned his players before the game they needed to be at their best to progress and showed his cautious side by playing four midfielders behind Bellingham and Vinicius. The Italian brought Aurelien Tchouameni forward into defensive midfield, also deploying Eduardo Camavinga, Fede Valverde and Toni Kroos, as he looked to protect the 1-0 first-leg lead. However Ancelotti’s gameplan stunted Madrid’s own attacking game without completely stifling Leipzig’s. “It was not our best day, but we have to be happy because the objective is complete,” Madrid captain Nacho Fernandez told Movistar. “When things don’t go as you want, you have to battle, to fight, to play games like today’s that make you grow and learn. “Sometimes you have bad games. They were terrific and we played well. We have to be pleased because we’re in the quarterfinals of the Champions League. “It might seem like a drama today because of the performance we put on, but we have to pick ourselves up and be proud of ourselves because we’re in the next round.” Europe’s most crowned side were taken to the wire on a nervy night by Marco Rose’s side, only founded in 2009, but steeled themselves and held on to progress. “If you add the 180 minutes up, we clearly had the better chances – I don’t know how they scored today,” Leipzig defender Benjamin Henrichs told DAZN. – AFP/Agencies SHORTS Leipzig’s Benjamin Henrichs (left) and Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior fight for the ball at the Santiago Bernabeu yesterday. – AFPPIX

SPORTS SPORTS FRIDAY | MAR 8, 2024 30 EPL race heats up Who has the best fixtures – Liverpool, Man City or Arsenal? THE Premier League is heading for a classic title race, with Manchester City, Liverpool and Arsenal set for a threeway battle as we approach the run-in. Manchester City, the defending champions, are aiming to win a fourth League title in a row under Pep Guardiola – a feat that has never been achieved in the history of English football. City blew Arsenal away in last year’s run-in, but the Gunners are back in the fight this campaign and have been joined by a resurgent Liverpool side – who are set for an emotional final months of Jurgen Klopp’s time on Merseyside. Sunday will stage what could be the final clash between Klopp’s Liverpool and Guardiola’s City, in what is a potential title decider at Anfield. The Premier League will then return from March’s international break for another blockbuster fixture, as Mikel Arteta’s side visit the Etihad to take on the champions, having already beaten City earlier this season. After that, as the Premier League title race enters April, the run-in can truly begin. But which team has the best fixtures and who has the hardest run of games to end the season? Here’s where the title could be won and lost. Liverpool Points: 63 Difficulty: →→→½ After near misses in 2019 and 2022, Liverpool know they must be close to perfect to dethrone Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City in the title race. This Sunday’s clash at Anfield could go a long way – with Guardiola yet to beat Liverpool at Anfield in front of a crowd. From there, the Reds have a favourable run, although a second trip to Old Trafford in a matter of weeks (following the FA Cup quarterfinal on March 17) stands out for obvious reasons, as does a Merseyside Derby at Goodison Park, in a fixture could be rearranged for late in the season. Jurgen Klopp does not have the best away records at Liverpool’s two biggest rivals. Apart from that, the key clashes to look out for could be against sides chasing Champions League football, with fixtures against Tottenham at Anfield and a trip to Aston Villa giving Liverpool a tricky final three when Wolves at home on the final day is also considered. Having already won the Carabao Cup, Klopp’s side are also still in the FA Cup and Europa League. In 2022, they took their pursuit of the quadruple all the way – even if they fell short in the Champions League final and in the title race. The Reds are once again heading for a dramatic final few weeks – but could Klopp lift the Premier League in his final season? Manchester City Points: 62 Difficulty: →→→→ After a difficult first-half of the campaign, have the champions once again found their titlewinning form when it counts? Pep Guardiola’s side have won nine of their last 10 in the Premier League, but until beating Manchester United on Sunday, all of those wins were against teams who were eighth or lower in the table. That all changes as City head to Anfield, kicking off a run where the champions take on four of the Premier League’s top-five in their next six fixtures. That includes the back-to-back with title rivals Liverpool and Arsenal, either side of the international break, followed by a trip to Tottenham, where City have never won in the Premier League under Guardiola. If City come through that run on top, they will surely end up as champions for a fourth straight year. A trip to Brighton is yet to be rearranged, while City have Luton and Wolves at home in between potential Champions League quarterfinals and semifinals in April and early May. City’s run-in is tricky, but the difficulty is front-loaded. Arsenal Points: 61 Difficulty: →→→→ Have Mikel Arteta’s side learnt their lesson from last season? The Gunners won just three of their final nine Premier League games last year, including a four-game winless run, as they fell away in the title race. They cannot afford a repeat of that and it will start, you would think, with their return to the Etihad on March 31. Arsenal have lost eight in a row away to Manchester City and their last win came in January 2015, so even a draw there would be a huge boost ahead of April and May. There, Arsenal will also have to face tricky games against Aston Villa and Tottenham – their trip across North London in late April should be an epic. Visits to Roberto de Zerbi’s Brighton and Gary O’Neil’s Wolves could be difficult, too, while Old Trafford looms large on the penultimate weekend of the season. Arsenal lost the title away from home last season – with defeat at the Etihad and costly dropped points from winning positions at Anfield and the London Stadium. Their fate this season will be determined on the road again, while participation in the latter stages of the Champions League will also make this season’s title race a different challenge. A result of Arsenal’s stunning recent attacking form – and Monday’s 6-0 win at Sheffield United – is the Gunners now possess the best goal difference in the Premier League. – The Independent CARDIFF CITY added to Huddersfield’s relegation worries with a 1-0 win over the Terriers in the Welsh capital. Famara Diedhiou’s first Cardiff goal in his seventh Bluebirds appearance proved the difference as he capped a fine move to give the hosts the halftime lead. Huddersfield will feel aggrieved not to have taken a point after Danny Ward missed a late chance from close range. The defeat means Huddersfield are outside of the Championship relegation zone only on goal difference in 21st. Cardiff rise to 10th with their third win on the spin in the league, seven points behind Hull City in the final play-off berth. “For the last four games I am happy. We needed to get our confidence back,” Cardiff boss boss Erol Bulut told BBC Sport Wales. “We scored a nice goal, this time not from a set-piece. If you win goals you always feel much, much better. “We’ve now got to be positive and aim for the full 30 points in the last 10 games. You always feel better after a win and you try harder. “The goal was a goal playing out from the back. We held back Famara Diedhiou, he was angry he didn’t play against his ex-team (Bristol City) but it was a good decision I think.” In yesterday’s other matches, Sam Field netted a late equaliser to boost QPR’s Championship survival hopes and dent West Brom’s playoff push while Norwich failed to move into the top six after a 3-1 defeat at Middlesbrough. – Agencies Cardiff make it three wins in a row █ BY JAMIE BRAIDWOOD MATCH-BY-MATCH facts and stats ahead of the next round of English Premier League fixtures (all in Malaysia time/11pm unless stated): TOMORROW Man United vs Everton (8.30pm) – Home win Manchester United have 40 wins over Everton in 63 matches played in the Premier League (D13 L10). Everton were beaten 2-0 in their last visit to Old Trafford while United have a threegame winning streak against Everton in the Premier League. Bournemouth vs Sheffield United – Home win Both sides have one win each in their three Premier League meetings (D1). Sheffield United lost 3-1 in their last meeting. * The teams drew 1-1 when they last played at Bournemouth’s Vitality Stadium. The Blades have conceded an average of 2.67 goals per game in the Premier League, the highest ratio ever in a single season. Crystal Palace vs Luton Town – Home win The sides have played only once in the Premier League with Luton winning 2-1. Palace have won three of their last four home games. Wolves vs Fulham – Home win Fulham are unbeaten in their last three meetings with Wolves (W1 D2) but have won only two of the 13 away games this season (D4 L7). The Cottagers beat Wolves 3-2 when the sides last met. SUNDAY Arsenal vs Brentford (1.30am) – Home win Brentford have won once in their five matches played against Arsenal in the Premier League (D1 L3). Their last meeting at the Emirates ended in a 1- 1 draw. The Gunners have lost just one home match in the Premier League this season (D2 W10). Aston Villa vs Tottenham (9pm) – Home win Villa have won their last three League games but are winless in 11 matches against Spurs at Villa Park (D2 L9) before beating them 2-1 in May last year. The Villans have won their last three League matches against Spurs. Brighton vs Forest(10pm) – Home win Brighton and Forest have one victory apiece in the clubs’ three Premier League meetings (D1). Forest’s last away win over Brighton came in a second-tier Championship match in 2015. Forest are winless in their last three away League games (L2 D1). West Ham vs Burnley (10pm) – Home win West Ham have won their last two League games to climb up to seventh in the standings while Burnley are winless in their last nine matches (D2 L7) and sit 19th – 11 points from the safety zone. The Clarets have not scored in their last three matches, losing all three. Liverpool vs Man City (11.45pm) – Away win Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has won 12 of his 29 career meetings against City’s Pep Guardiola (D6 L11). The two managers were at Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich, respectively, for the first eight of those clashes and won four times each. City have won just twice in their 26 League visits to Anfield (D7 L17). Three of the last five league matches between the two teams have ended in a draw. TUESDAY Chelsea vsNewcastle (4am) – Away win Chelsea have lost 15 of their 57 Premier League meetings with Newcastle but lost only once at home. The Blues last beat Newcastle in a Premier League match almost two years ago, a 1-0 victory on March 13, 2021. The Magpies have conceded two or more goals in seven of their last nine League games. Reuters PREMIER LEAGUE PREVIEWS & PREDICTIONS Kai Havertz Darwin Nunez

SPORTS SPORTS FRIDAY | MAR 8, 2024 31 NATIONAL para archer G. Daneshen qualified for the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris after winning silver in the men’s compound event at the 8th Fazza Para Archery World Ranking Tournament in Dubai yesterday. The 26-year-old Daneshen, ranked world number 32, lost to Austria’s Michael Meier133-143 in the final. He overcame Thailand’s Sakon Inkaew 140-139 in the semi-finals and Wu Chung Hung of Taiwan 138-136 in the quarterfinals. The tournament is the last qualifying event for the Paralympics, which will be held from Aug 28 to Sept 8. Daneshen is the third Malaysian para archer to qualify for Paris 2024. Previously, the 2019 para archery world champion, S Suresh and the best female athlete of the 2022 Malaysian Para Games (Sukma), Nur Jannaton Abd Jalil, confirmed their tickets to Paris at the Asian Continental Para Qualification Archery Championships in Bangkok, Thailand at the end of last year, respectively, each as the men’s recurve champion and the women’s compound runner-up. Meanwhile, another national representative for the event, Wiro Julin missed the slot to Paris 2024 after narrowly losing to Bulent Korkmaz from Turkiye 141-142 in the 1/16 elimination round. – Bernama READ OUR HERE /thesun Malaysian Paper PUFC qualification on hold Perlis United need to fulfil additional conditions to play in Super League THE Malaysian Football League (MFL) has directed Perlis United FC (PUFC) to meet additional conditions to qualify for the conditional extraordinary licence needed to play as the 14th team in the Super League 2024/2025. MFL chief executive officer Datuk Stuart Ramalingam said this decision was made after hearing PUFC’s application through the First Instance Body’s (FIB) proposal following verification and assessment of the relevant documents submitted by the M3 Amateur Football League (AFL). Apart from PUFC, similar applications were submitted by the Immigration FC, KL Rovers FC and Harini Selangor FT to fill the 14th slot after the MFL Club Licensing Appeal Committee (AB) rejected Kelantan FC’s application for a national licence to compete in the Super League this season. “Every application must fulfil the criteria and sub-criteria on Infrastructure, Staff and Administration, Sports, Legislation, Finance and Business spelt out in the MFL Club Licensing Regulations 2023 Edition,” he said in a statement yesterday. Stuart said assessments done on the applications received showed that PUFC possessed stronger documentation with copies of sponsorship letters worth RM25 million from four potential sponsors, namely Mudim Zakaria Food Industries Sdn Bhd, Ivory Properties Group Berhad, M.A Intelligent Holdings Sdn Bhd and Al Razi Holding (M) Sdn Bhd. “PUFC also submitted a copy of a RM5m cheque from one of the sponsors as proof of the team’s funds. “The club also provided a support letter from the Perlis state government signed by Menteri Besar Mohd Shukri Ramli and a support letter from the Perlis Football Association,” he added. However, the MFL Board of Directors decided that PUFC would only be given the conditional extraordinary licence if they fulfil the extra conditions set by FIB based on discussions with PUFC officials. He said MFL has informed PUFC of this matter and is awaiting their response. On another matter, Stuart said FIB had given deadlines to Kedah Darul Aman FC (KDA FC) and Kuala Lumpur City FC (KL City) to resolve the issue of salary arrears for players and officials in stages. KDA FC and KL City were instructed to make the first payment of 50% on or before March 15 and the full payment on or before March 29. “Failure to make the payments by these deadlines can cause the two Super League clubs to be barred from undertaking player transfers and fined or punished with the withdrawal of the national licence by FIB,” he said. – Bernama Daneshen books ticket to Paris Paralympic Games YOUNG national forward Luqman Hakim Shamsudin gave a confident display when making his debut with Y.S.C.C Yokohama in their 1-0 win over Mito Hollyhock in the Levain Cup in Yokohama yesterday. The 22-year-old was fielded as a substitute when his team were leading in the 77th minute and played for almost 20 minutes, including added time, according to a video shared by @J_League_En on the X platform. Luqman, the 2018 AFC U-16 Championship top scorer, looked sharp and fit in the match played at the NHK Spring Mitsuzawa Football Stadium. He was also listed among the top 60 young players with potential by The Guardian in 2019. The Levain Cup is also known as the J League Cup, one of the domestic tournaments in Japan. Luqman, who helped Malaysia emerge runners-up in the 2019 Asean Football Federation (AFF) U-18 Championship, joined Y.S.C.C Yokohama on loan from Belgian professional club KV Kortrijk to play in the J3 League for the 2024 season. The Kota Bharu-born player had represented Harimau Malaya before he was loaned to Iceland club Njardvik in 2023. Luqman needs to chalk up sufficient playing minutes to be in top shape to vie for a spot in the national U-23 squad that will be playing in the 2024 Asian Cup U-23 tournament in Qatar beginning April 15, apart from enhancing his chances of joining the senior squad. – Bernama Luqman puts in spirited display in Japan CHAMPIONS LEAGUE (Last 16, 2nd leg): Manchester City 3 (Akanji 5, Alvarez 9, Haaland 45+3) FC Copenhagen 1 (Elyounoussi 29) – Man City win 6-2 on agg, Real Madrid 1 (Vinicius 65) RB Leipzig 1 (Orban 68) – Real Madrid win 2-1 on agg. EUROPA LEAGUE (Last 16, first leg): Sporting 1 (Paulinho 17) Atalanta 1 (Scamacca 39). CHAMPIONSHIP: Cardiff 1 Huddersfield 0, Middlesbrough 3 Norwich 1, Watford 1 Swansea 1, QPR 2 West Brom 2. TOP 10 P W D L F A Pts Leicester 36 26 3 7 72 31 81 Ipswich 36 23 9 4 73 47 78 Leeds 36 23 7 6 66 28 76 Southampton 35 21 7 7 69 45 70 West Brom 36 17 9 10 53 35 60 Hull 36 16 9 11 51 44 57 Norwich 36 16 7 13 61 54 55 Coventry 36 14 12 10 57 42 54 Preston 35 15 8 12 47 52 53 Cardiff 36 15 5 16 41 48 50 Sunderland 36 14 5 17 46 4 47 RESULTS & STANDINGS SHORTS Nur Humaira named Sportswoman of UM NUR HUMAIRA Abdul Karim, the gold medallist in the women's individual taekwondo poomsae event at the 2023 Southeast Asian Games in Cambodia, was named the Sportswoman of the University by the University of Malaya (UM) at the 2023 UM Sports Awards (ASUM) held at the Perdanasiswa Complex Auditorium yesterday. Nur Humaira, 23, clinched the award as she created a surprise at the biennial event with a score of 7.430 points, surpassing her challenger from Singapore, Diyanah Aqidah Muhammad Dian Khudairi, who scored 7.260 points, while Cambodian athlete Mang Kanithyda placed third with 7.090 points. The trophy was presented by UM ViceChancellor Prof Datuk Seri Dr Noor Azuan Abu Osman. Meanwhile, Wan Muhammad Fazri Wan Zahari was named the University’s Sportsman. The track-and-field athlete who made his debut at the 2023 Southeast Asian Games in Cambodia, won silver in the 800m event. He finished the run with a time of 1:53.86, while the gold went to Cambodian athlete Chhun Bunthorn (1:52.92) and Vietnamese’s Duc Phuoc Luong finished third (1:53.34). A total of 19 awards were presented during the ceremony to 191 UM sports enthusiasts, including students and staff, to appreciate their contributions to the development of sports and recreational activities at the university. Tang Jie-Ee Wei outclass Kian Meng- Pei Jing MALAYSIA’S mixed doubles pair Chen Tang Jie-Toh Ee Wei lived up to their billing by advancing to the second round of the 2024 French Open after defeating compatriots Tan Kian Meng-Lai Pei Jing yesterday. In the first-round match that took place at the Arena Porte de la Chapelle in Paris, Tang Jie-Ee Wei, ranked ninth in the world, took just 42 minutes to overcome Kian Meng and Pei Jing with straight sets victory of 21-15 and 21- 18. This marks Tang Jie-Ee Wei’s second victory over the Malaysian professionals after the Malaysia Open in January. Awaiting them in the round of 16 are the fourth-seeded pair from China, Feng YanzheHuang Dongping, who advanced after defeating representatives from the United States, Vinson Chiu-Jennie Gai. Three more Malaysian representatives, namely men’s singles Lee Zii Jia and women’s doubles pairs Pearly Tan-M. Thinaah and Vivian Hoo-Lim Chiew Sien, will also be in action overnight. Luqman Hakim. – YSCC Yokohama Facebook page

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 • Tel (Editorial): 03-7784 6688 Fax: 03-7785 2625 Email: [email protected] • Tel (Advertising): 03-7784 8888 Email: [email protected] PEP GUARDIOLA feels his Manchester City side are playing like a team that believes they can win the Champions League again. The City boss also saluted the team’s consistency after they secured their place in the quarterfinals of Europe’s elite club competition with a comfortable victory over FC Copenhagen. City eased to a 3-1 win in the second leg of their last-16 tie at the Etihad Stadium to complete a convincing 6-2 aggregate success. Guardiola said: “We are a team that believes we can do it. Listen, we’re competing with Real Madrid and Bayern Munich, but the important thing is that seven years in a row we are here. Consistency. “I felt the people when we arrived from a club like Barcelona and Bayern Munich – where they demand to always be there – I felt the club, not the players, didn’t feel it. “We are here because we needed time. People, managers don’t get time, hierarchies don’t get time. “But they gave us time to lose against Monaco, lose against Liverpool, lose against Tottenham – all (part of) the process to do it, because when a team comes from never ever being in that position, you cannot do it. “It is easy for clubs that have big history – start with the best ones, Real Madrid, Barcelona, Liverpool, Bayern Munich or Man United – they have been used to it. “You need time and they gave me time. Now we are in a process where we can lose, definitely, but we can compete everywhere because we’ve come from the final, semifinal, final, now the quarterfinals again. That means our consistency in Europe.” A much-changed City largely went through the motions after early goals from Manuel Akanji and Julian Alvarez put them on course. M o h a m e d Elyounoussi pulled one back for the spirited Danes but they were ultimately outclassed and Erling Haaland’s 29th goal of the campaign wrapped up the scoring. Guardiola said: “We went through against a difficult team. Bayern Munich felt it, Man United felt it, and Galatasaray. They are a difficult opponent, well organised. “To win the titles we need everyone and we used them. I am really pleased for the performance. People may expect a lot of things but I know how difficult it is.” Guardiola insisted his much-changed line-up came from his desire to get more energy into his team after their exertions against Manchester United. But none of the outfield players that started that match completed the full 90 minutes in this one. Twice he was asked directly about Liverpool – who are a point ahead of Manchester City – and on both occasions he told his inquisitor to “ask me on Friday”, meaning his pre-match media conference. “It is not personal,“ he said. “I want to see you at my press conference on Friday. If I answer all the questions now, you will not come.” It is all eyes on Anfield on Sunday as Liverpool, Manchester City and Arsenal compete in one of the tightest Premier League title races in years. Just two points separate the three, with former Manchester United skipper Rio Ferdinand expecting Guardiola’s men to be full of confidence. “Man City know what they are doing, they have been here before. The manager is a relentless force. The focus is there and this is a juggernaut that needs to be stopped,” he told TNT Sport. Copenhagen coach Jacob Neestrup felt his players could hold their heads high after what has been a memorable European campaign for the European champions having progressed from a tough group. He said: “I could not ask for more from my players. I am proud of the campaign we had in the group stage and we advanced to play the best team in the world. I am filled up with pride. “Obviously, you need to do everything you can because these are moments in your life you will not get back.” – The Independent/Agencies SCAN ME FRIDAY | MAR 8, 2024 or download app from the App Store or Google PlayTM . www.thesun.my Free access to iPaper PDF Download SCAN ME Malaysian Paper Read iPaper at Malaysian Paper Malaysian Paper ‘Any team would want Max’ -Story - on page 29 Story on page 27 Real close call City believe they can defend Champions League title, says Pep FC Copenhagen’s Victor Froholdt (left) in action with Manchester City's Josko Gvardiol during their Champions League round of 16 second-leg match. –REUTERSPIX -Story on page 30 Cardiff win three in a row Brash Citizens