Malaysian Paper www.thesun.my RM1.00 PER COPY RM1 TUESDAY FEB 13, 2024 SCAN ME No. 8457 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195) Grab a copy of newspaper @RM1 only to enjoy a special offer from Starbucks Expensive fetish for soiled panties Growing number of Malaysian men buying unwashed women’s underwear on social media platforms at mind-boggling prices. Report on — page 3 Curb the cuts, govt urged Local filmmakers want authorities to replace censorship with age classification so that industry can thrive and films can be rated accordingly without need for unnecessary snipping. Report on — page 4 Lawyer lodges reports over death threats Police seek MCMC help to identify social media account holders who threatened to ‘slaughter’ Nik Elin Zurina Nik Abdul Rashid over her petition to challenge provisions under Kelantan syariah law. Report on — page 5 NATURAL WONDER ... Local and foreign tourists walk between Pulau Pangkor and Pulau Giam to experience the annual ‘parting sea’ phenomenon when extreme low tides reveal a 400m raised sandbar between the two islands in mid-February. – BERNAMAPIC Report on — page 2 Don’t politicise on’t politicise syariah Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi says he is agreeable to discussions among Muslim MPs to issue: DPM empower syariah laws, on condition Federal Court ruling is not made political agenda.
TUESDAY | FEB 13, 2024 2 PETALING JAYA: Economists have called for government-introduced reforms for the gig sector to be implemented gradually to avoid a sudden rise in the cost of doing business. Monash University economics professor Dr Niaz Asadullah said if the proposed Malaysian Gig Economy Commission is not initiated carefully, companies that run gig platforms would increase their service charges. “Delivery fees and rates may rise significantly if the platforms face reduced business flexibility and increased costs in operations. It could also lead to decreased job opportunities for p-hailing workers.” He recommended that gig workers be formalised by the authorities through registration with the Employees Provident Fund and Social Security Organisation. “Income disparities are essentially a downside of gig platforms, where flexibility comes at the expense of the type of protection and laws for regular employees in a conventional economy. “This can be solved by introducing unemployment benefits that ensure access to skills development schemes and implementation of minimum wage standards. “There is also a need to better regulate gig platform employers to curb unfair practices, stop worker abuse and improve accountability,” he said, adding that gig worker associations or unions should be empowered with collective bargaining powers. Niaz said policymakers must ensure that they minimise the welfare costs of any potential trade-off between labour market flexibility and job security. He said the introduction of the Malaysian Gig Economy Commission is certainly a positive move that could improve worker welfare as well as productivity. “Nearly a quarter of our workforce today relies on gig work, yet the terms of employment are not fully formalised, and pay is low and often irregular. “Gig workers also have limited prospects for upskilling and retraining. These deficits will undermine major recent measures such as a progressive wage policy towards a high wage and high productivity labour market. “Women and single mothers who have to shoulder the burden of family responsibilities can benefit from the Malaysian Gig Economy Commission. With better flexibility, this will mean increased well-being as work-life balance will improve.” University Malaya economics professor Dr Nazari Ismail said the commission may not result in a major change since the gig economy is a result of the bank-based financial system that created huge debt burdens for all sectors and increased the cost of living. “Policymakers cannot do much because the main force driving the gig economy is the bank-based financial system that forces all organisations to cut costs and increase efficiency. “As a result, the gig economy is unavoidable because people need to work harder to earn a living. It cannot force a change in the gig economy trend because it is an outcome of a system.” He also said firms would resist increased regulations by the Malaysian Gig Economy Commission because it would negatively affect their efficiency and increase cost of operations. “Only organisations that are not under a debt burden will not mind the increased regulations because they are not under severe pressure to increase their efficiency or reduce costs.” Nazari suggested the government encourage firms not to resort to debt financing for their operations because that would force them to adopt gig economy concepts to reduce costs. “In the end, they will exploit their workers to reduce costs so that they can cope with their debt burden.” o‘If proposed commission not executed carefully, companies running platforms may increase charges’ King congratulates son on Asian Le Mans victory KUALA LUMPUR: His Majesty the King of Malaysia Sultan Ibrahim has congratulated his son Tunku Panglima Johor Tunku Abdul Rahman Sultan Ibrahim on his maiden victory at the Asian Le Mans series race in Abu Dhabi on Sunday. Tunku Abdul Rahman and the Triple Eight team made history by clinching the first victory in the GT category during the fourth round of the Asian Le Mans series held at the Yas Marina Circuit in the United Arab Emirates. “Congratulations to Iman (Tunku Abdul Rahman) and the team. This success not only brings honour to Johor but also to Malaysia on the international stage. “Remember Bah’s advice, before starting every race, perform the solat hajat (prayer of need) and pray for protection and safety throughout the race,“ said His Majesty. Sultan Ibrahim’s remarks were posted on the King’s official Facebook page. Tunku Abdul Rahman, alongside Luca Stolz and Jordan Love, displayed splendid driving skills throughout the four-hour race, ultimately clinching victory for the team in their debut at the series. Tunku Abdul Rahman and his team also managed to avoid any untoward incidents during the race. – Bernama █ BYALLEN WONG [email protected] Do not politicise Federal Court ruling, says DPM KL voting centre for Indonesians largest globally: Envoy Implement gig-sector reforms gradually: Experts KUALA LUMPUR: The polling station at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur (WTCKL) for Indonesians to vote in the general election tomorrow is the biggest globally for its citizens overseas, said Indonesian ambassador to Malaysia Datuk Hermono. After casting his vote at the early polling station at WTCKL on Sunday, he said all election workers are ready to help Indonesians in Malaysia to exercise their voting right. “We have learnt from the previous election (2019) and have minimised the misuse of ballot papers.” Meanwhile, an embassy source said recent allegations of ballot paper misuse, as highlighted in videos circulated by certain parties, have not yet been proven and the matter is being investigated by the relevant authorities. All 130 Indonesian embassies worldwide are said to have opened polling stations for Indonesians living abroad. Six polling stations were opened in Malaysia on Sunday for early voting by registered Indonesian voters, namely WTCKL (222,945), Johor Bahru (2,684), Penang (5,375), Kota Kinabalu (2,811), Tawau (20,247) and Kuching (2,988). Indonesian polls held in Malaysia receive much attention in the home country because it involves the largest number of overseas voters. Based on previous reports for this election, the number of registered voters in Malaysia is about 47.55% of the total 1.75 million Indonesian overseas voters. About 240 million Indonesians will cast their ballots in the election tomorrow to choose a president, vice-president, People’s Consultative Assembly members and representatives of local legislative bodies. – Bernama M’sian journalists to cover polls in Jakarta SEPANG: Fifteen Malaysian journalists left for Jakarta from the KL International Airport for the Ikatan Setiakawan Malaysia-Indonesia Jejak Serumpun programme. The 10-day visit until Feb 21 is led by the organisation’s Malaysia president Ashwad Ismail, who is also Astro Awani editor-in-chief. The programme aims to expose Malaysian journalists to various dimensions and perspectives of the 2024 Indonesian Presidential Election tomorrow and the Indonesian National Press Day on Feb 20. Ashwad said the journalists would not only witness one of the world’s largest democratic processes but also gain insights into the advancement of green technology and the republic’s digital economy, apart from fostering relations with Indonesian journalists. Established in 2003 by senior journalists from Indonesia and Malaysia, the organisation serves as a bridge between citizens of the two countries through sharing of information and fostering of ties. – Bernama BAGAN DATUK: The decision by the Federal Court to strike down 16 provisions in the Kelantan Syariah Criminal Code Enactment (1) 2019 on Friday should not be politicised, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. He said this is because the decision is related to the legislative provisions passed by the Kelantan State Legislative Assembly and not about the jurisdiction of the syariah court. He added that he is agreeable to a discussion among Muslim MPs to empower syariah laws on condition that the parties involved do not politicise the matter. “Discussions can be held, but we must look into the issue of determining ideas and not make politics the main agenda, or only call for Muslims to discuss this matter when it is already too late,” he said, after visiting his adopted family here on Sunday in conjunction with Chinese New Year. Ahmad Zahid, who is also Bagan Datuk MP, was responding to Kelantan PAS deputy commissioner II Datuk Mohd Amar Nik Abdullah’s invitation to all parties, especially Muslim MPs, to hold discussions on how syariah laws could be strengthened. On Friday, the Federal Court, in an 8-1 majority decision, annulled 16 provisions of the Kelantan Syariah Criminal Code (I) Enactment 2019 on the grounds that they were unconstitutional. The court ruled that the state legislature did not have the power to enact laws on the offences because there were federal laws covering the same. The Federal Court made the ruling after allowing a petition filed by Nik Elin Zurina Nik Abdul Rashid and her daughter Tengku Yasmin Nastasha Abdul Rahman to challenge the constitutionality and legality of 18 provisions under the enactment. On whether the Cabinet would hold a meeting following the Federal Court decision, Ahmad Zahid said there were no plans to do so. – Bernama Indonesians casting their early votes at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur polling station yesterday. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN
TUESDAY | FEB 13, 2024 3 Govt confident over 27 million visitors target SEPANG: Tourism Malaysia is confident of achieving a targeted 27.3 million foreign tourist arrivals this year due to the government’s charter flight matching grant incentive, Visa Liberalisation programme and increased tourism promotion activities abroad. Its director-general Datuk Dr Ammar Abd Ghapar said last year, more than 20 million foreign tourists visited Malaysia, surpassing the targeted 19.1 million. “We encourage more charter flights to Malaysia and we continue to focus on such efforts because we understand the need for new routes and more frequency flights to achieve the desired target. “The charter flight matching grant is crucial to increase the frequency of flights to Malaysia. We are also hoping for the International Border Flight Grant for Charter Flights to airlines to encourage more inbound charter flights. “If we have such a grant, we can expect more charter flights to Malaysia, not only to Kuala Lumpur but also to Kota Kinabalu, Penang and Tawau,” he said on Sunday after receiving passengers from the maiden Malaysia Airlines flight from Shenyang in Liaoning, China. Also present was Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing. Ammar said grants for special international charter flights would have to be based on a number of terms and conditions such as the frequency of flights, addition of new routes and the use of charter flights. “Any airline that wishes to add to frequency of flights must be given incentives. We will increase efforts to add more programmes for charter flights because we see a positive impact in the arrival of foreign tourists,” he said, adding that about 40 additional charter flights to Malaysia were recorded since January. On the Visa Liberalisation programme, Ammar said effective Dec 1, the government has allowed visa free entry to Chinese and Indian nationals, resulting in a huge jump in the number of tourist arrivals from China. “The announcement of visa free for Chinese travellers effective Dec 1, 2023 has spurred enquiries and bookings to Malaysia from China. “Trip.com reported that Malaysia would receive a 53.9% increase in inbound travel to Malaysia for the Chinese New Year period,” he said, adding that Tourism Malaysia has targeted some 200,000 tourist arrivals from China a month. – Bernama Multiracial celebrations approach to unity SIBU: House visits in conjunction with festival celebrations of the multi-racial community clearly demonstrate harmony and unity in the country, said Dudong assemblyman Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing. Tiong, who is also Tourism, Arts and Culture minister, said the harmony and unity enjoyed by Malaysians should be preserved for the continued development of the country. “Malaysia has multiple races and religions. Reject racism so that we will achieve strong unity,” he said at a Chinese New Year open house hosted by the Progressive Democratic Party at the Pulau Li Hua commercial centre. More than 10,000 people from the multiracial community attended the gathering, including Dewan Rakyat Deputy Speaker and Lanang MP Alice K.Y. Lau, who also held an open house at the Lanang DAP service centre in Jalan Lanang, which was attended by the multiracial community in Sibu. The public also attended an open house hosted by Dudong Sarawak United People’s Party branch chairman Wong Ching Yong at the service centre in Jalan Aman. – Bernama Baring facts on used underwear fetish PETALING JAYA: Believe it or not, there is a growing fetish among some Malaysians who are buying unwashed women’s underwear on social media platforms at prices ranging from RM1,000 to RM5,000. In a post shared on X, a surgical nurse claimed she sold her unwashed underwear for RM5,000. “After an eight-hour surgery in the operation theatre, I would remove and store my underwear in a plastic zip-lock bag to retain its scent. Some love it and are willing to pay a lot of money to get their hands on my underwear. It’s sold on a ‘willing buyer, willing seller’ basis,” she said. Another seller said she posted her unwashed underwear for sale at RM1,000 and received a response from a man who wanted to make a cash-on-delivery payment. “After I handed over my underwear, the buyer took a picture of me and ran away. Despite being cheated, I obviously cannot go to the police to complain. How can I tell the police that I attempted to sell my unwashed underwear for RM1,000 and the buyer ran away?” Psychologist and Malaysian Psychospiritual Well-being Association deputy chairman Dr Adnan Omar said the practice of using unwashed underwear for oIndividuals with tendency for such sexual indulgence may have condition bordering on mental illness: Expert █ BYQIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI [email protected] certain types of sexual fantasies has been prevalent in the country for some time. “However, it is a very odd, perplexing and confusing issue. Why would someone buy used underwear for RM1,000, let alone RM5,000? Nevertheless, when it comes to sexual fantasies and kinkiness, some of those involved may border on certain mental illnesses.” Adnan said from a psychological perspective, underwear used in sexual situations are “paraphilias” of persistent and recurrent sexual interests, urges, fantasies or behaviours of marked intensity involving objects, activities or atypical situations. “This includes voyeurism, fetishism, bestiality, necrophilia, sadism and exhibitionism.” Adnan said while it is currently a fashion trend to repurpose worn items such as jeans and shirts for a stylish and renewed look, the practice of selling unwashed underwear stands out as strange and unusual. “However, some of the sellers of unwashed underwear may not have issues of mental health or paraphilia but may be selling them for financial reasons or sexual satisfaction. They may also feel intrigued by the idea that a buyer is using or showing interest in their (underwear). “But for the buyer to spend that much money for unwashed underwear indicates that he may be suffering from some form of sexual deviance, especially paraphilia, which is why he is more likely to seek out such objects.” Adnan said individuals have been known to derive sexual gratification and interest from non-sexual objects, including fruit, food, technical equipment, clothing items and in this case, underwear. Some may videotape their or another person’s sexual act for personal gratification or use image enhancing devices such as binoculars or a telescope for voyeurism. On the case of the surgical nurse, several individuals expressed disgust, saying her behaviour was “strange”. Some questioned the authenticity of her claims while others acknowledged the possible existence of individuals with a fetish for smelling used underwear. Adnan said exposure to unnatural sexual behaviour may escalate in the future, as the internet seems to normalise such conduct. “With such deviant exposure, some individuals may even end up having problematic sexual urges or relationships and find it difficult to embrace natural, acceptable sexual behaviour. So, they may use other methods such as paraphilia to gratify their sexual interests.” Adnan warned that engaging obsessively in paraphilic actions could potentially impact work or study performance as it may consume a significant amount of time, attention and mental energy. “If one continues with such behaviour during a sexual relationship with others, such as in a marriage, it may lead to significant problems, including sexual assault and divorce.” ‘True friend’ sculpture unveiled in Sitiawan MANJUNG: The expression “Setia Kawan” (true friend) that is ingrained in the identity of Sitiawan has been brought to life through a sculpture that also serves as a new landmark. The rock sculpture of a pair of elephants, which stands as a tribute to the unwavering friendship depicted in the historical narrative of how Sitiawan earned its name, was officially unveiled by Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming. “Named ‘Setia Kawan’, the sculpture holds remarkable historical significance, including the inspiring tale of an elephant refusing to abandon its trapped companion in a river. “When the river surged, the elephant remained steadfast by its friend until both met their demise, giving rise to the names Sungai Gajah Mati and Kampung Gajah Mati,” he told a press conference after officiating at the Setia Kawan sculture at the Kampung Koh Heritage Community Centre on Sunday. According to Nga, after the village faced a calamity, its name was changed to Setia Kawan in 1886. “That year, a smallpox outbreak hit the village, resulting in many deaths and a few villagers led by the village head known as Mohd Ali, wrote to the then Perak Resident Sir Hugh Low, requesting that the name Gajah Mati be changed to Setia Kawan. “Since then, it has been known as Setia Kawan, with the villagers eventually shortening the name to just Sitiawan,” he said. Nga said the Manjung Municipal Council has allocated RM600,000 in the Kampung Koh area to ensure that the Setia Kawan Cultural Alley in Kampung Koh becomes a significant tourist attraction in the district. “The murals and lights adorning the walls of old buildings here have the potential to become another exciting attraction for visitors. “Similarly, sales at the shops operating in the old buildings will ensure Kampung Koh is ready to be among places to visit in the run up to Visit Malaysia 2026,” he said. – Bernama The rock sculpture honours the tale involving an elephant refusing to leave its companion that was stuck in a river. – BERNAMAPIC
TUESDAY | FEB 13, 2024 4 ‘Replace movie censorship with age classification’ PETALING JAYA: Local filmmakers are urging the government to replace censorship with age classification so that the industry can thrive and films can be rated accordingly without the need for unnecessary cuts. Kuman Pictures managing director Amir Muhammad said alternatively, adopting a no-cuts policy for film festival screenings, as is the practice in Singapore, Indonesia and Saudi Arabia, would benefit the industry. “Such an approach will acknowledge the importance of artistic integrity while upholding age-appropriate viewing standards,” he said. Amir added that as a filmmaker, navigating the delicate balance between addressing societal issues and adhering to censorship guidelines without compromising the storytelling process is crucial. He said despite budget constraints, maintaining a strong script and striving to bring a storyline to fruition remains a major challenge as nuances are often lost in the censorship process. “But for important ones where the script is considered ‘sensitive’, major cuts are often made, degrading the quality and standard of the film, which is why age classification is preferred to censorship.” Amir said of the films Kuman Pictures has submitted to the Film Censorship Board – Roh and Two Sisters were approved without cuts, while Irul: Ghost Hotel only required muting of two curse words in Tamil and English. Its other films such as Pendatang, have been opted for YouTube, a platform that does not require any censorship. “This decision was made because the film was entirely crowdfunded, and our commitment was to ensure Pendatang was accessible to all viewers. It wasn’t a deliberate attempt to avoid censorship.” Amir said those who are truly passionate about filmmaking will invariably find a way to bring their vision to life, and distribute it through the most suitable channels available. Freedom Film Network campaign and strategy lead Deborah Augustin said film censorship should be left in the past as it has become irrelevant today. “Censorship is increasingly ineffective in the digital age, because uncensored versions of films readily find their way onto the internet and streaming platforms, so age classification is the right step to take. Emphasising the importance of integrating members of the film industry into the censorship board, she said the move would bring a new dimension to the decision-making processes when it comes to making cuts to a film. “There is no need for the Film Censorship Board to incorporate representatives from civil society who know nothing about film-making. “However, involving industry professionals would provide valuable insights and perspectives, and ensure that cuts are made through an informed decision-making process by people who understand filmmaking practices and artistic considerations.” Augustin also said the inclusion of industry professionals, especially directors and scriptwriters, would foster a sense of collaboration and mutual understanding between filmmakers and the censorship board, ultimately leading to more effective and fair censorship outcomes. Digitalisation boost to socio-economic growth KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia has demonstrated its commitment to socio-economic development via digitalisation, and ensuring that both businesses and the people would benefit. Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) assistant vice-chancellor (infostructure) Assoc Prof Dr Juliana Johari said the country has achieved a marked improvement in several digital indicators, showing advancements in both digital literacy and internet access. She was commenting on recent reports that Malaysia has been ranked 15th in the world and third in the Asean region in the ICT (Information and Communication Technology) Development Index 2023 (IDI 2023). Last week, Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil announced that Malaysia achieved a score of 94.5 points out of 100 in IDI 2023, surpassing the global average score of 72.8 points, thus showing an excellent achievement towards achieving the universal and meaningful connectivity target. Juliana said several programmes, such as the National Digital Network Plan, the Digital Economy Centres and the National Broadband Initiative, have been launched to further boost internet access. “These programmes are implemented by the government to improve and upgrade the country’s telecommunications infrastructure. “This opens up more opportunities for businesses and individuals to take advantage of digital technology,” she said. Juliana opined that through such programmes, the government hopes to drive the growth of the digital economy; increase access to business, education and health services via technology; and strengthen social integration nationwide. She also said UiTM has received significant investment in digital infrastructure, with RM42.6 million allocated by the government to upgrade internet services at its 34 campuses. “This proves the country’s commitment in equipping educational institutions with the best digital facilities,” she said. She added that the use of apps such as MySejahtera has brought a change in digital communications in Malaysia, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic. – Bernama Journalism ethics manual move lauded KUALA LUMPUR: The move by the Communications Ministry to launch a journalism ethics manual is considered relevant and timely taking into account the emergence of various media platforms. Taylor’s University School of Media and Communication (Master’s Programme) lecturer Dr Azian Muhamad Adzmi said there has been an explosion of information technology, which has led to the emergence of various social media platforms, digital media and artificial intelligence (AI), as well as “journalists without licence”. “This is something that should be done because we want to ensure that journalist code of ethics and standards are trusted by the public,” she said when appearing as a guest on Bernama TV’s Apa Khabar Malaysia programme yesterday. On Feb 6, Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said the ministry will launch a journalism ethics manual this month to clarify several aspects, including news verification. Azian said the community also needs to understand that in order to disseminate news or information, media practitioners are bound by several acts, and the news must also be true, accurate and authentic. On the management of podcasts, Azian advised content creators to be more careful in their selection of guests. – Bernama SOLIDARITY VIA ART ... A visitor admiring a painting at the ‘Voices of Resistance 2024’ exhibition held at the KL City Art Gallery over the weekend. Featuring works of artists from Turkiye, Thailand, Bangladesh and Malaysia, it will also contribute to aid and reconstruction in Gaza. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUN █ BY MUHAMMAD AMMAR JALAL [email protected] Drop in dengue cases PUTRAJAYA: The number of dengue cases dropped to 3,631 in the 6th Epidemiological Week (EW06) from Feb 4-10 compared with 3,969 cases in the previous week, with one death due to dengue fever complications. Health Director-General Datuk Dr Muhammad Radzi Abu Hassan said cumulative dengue cases reported so far this year totalled 22,058, compared with 13,094 cases in the corresponding period last year. “A total of 10 deaths due to dengue fever complications have been reported, compared with nine fatalities for the same period last year,” he said in a statement. He added that the number of reported dengue hotspots increased to 199 localities in EW06, compared with 180 in the previous week. A total of 158 cases were reported in Selangor, 18 in Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya, 10 in Negeri Sembilan, six in Perak, two each in Penang and Kedah, and one each in Pahang, Johor and Sabah. “Based on the trend for dengue cases in the past 10 years, dengue fever cases usually peak every four or five years. The rise in cases started in 2023 and the trend is expected to rise in 2024,” he said. – Bernama Johor zoo tickets to remain ‘cheapest’ ISKANDAR PUTERI: The price of the Johor Zoo admission tickets will be maintained as the cheapest in the country when it reopens to the public in April, said state Housing and Local Government Committee chairman Datuk Mohd Jafni Md Shukor. Discussions are also being held on adding more animals to the zoo, he said. “The revamped zoo will be more comfortable, clean and organised,” he said after receiving a donation from SWM Environment Sdn Bhd. The donation will be distributed to 750 B40 families in the state. The 12.5ha Johor Zoo, located in the centre of Johor Bahru city, has over 100 animal species. It was first opened in 1928, making it the oldest zoo in the country. – Bernama oApproach acknowledges importance of artistic integrity while upholding appropriate viewing standards, says filmmaker
TUESDAY | FEB 13, 2024 5 Man sought over snatch theft IPOH: Police are tracking down a man believed to have snatched two gold necklaces from a seamstress in Tanjung Rambutan on Feb 8. District police chief Asst Comm Yahaya Hassan said the 38-year-old woman was approached at about 9.10am by the suspect, who is believed to be a local. He said the suspect, who was talking to the woman, suddenly became aggressive and pushed her down before snatching her gold necklaces. “The suspect threatened to harm the woman if she screamed for help and fled on a motorcycle,” Yahaya said, adding that she did not suffer any injuries. “The stolen necklaces were her wedding chain and a gift necklace from her father. The case is being investigated under to Section 392 of the Penal Code.” Yahaya said anyone with information on the incident can contact investigating officer Asst Supt Fadli Ahmad at 019-250 0019. He also advised the public to always be vigilant and take care of personal safety and property. – Bernama Teenagers on outing drown BETONG: Two teenagers drowned while swimming in a river near Rumah Panjang Batu Lintang in Jalan Ulu Layar on Sunday. A Fire and Rescue Operations Centre spokesperson said rescuers from Betong Fire and Rescue station (FRS) were dispatched to the location after receiving a distress call at 3.53pm. The two victims were identified as Norman Syakimie Suria Ariffin, 16, and Afiq Aiman Mohd Adress, 17. “Upon arrival at the scene, one of the victims, Norman Syakimie was found unconscious and subsequently pronounced dead by medical personnel. “The body of the second victim, Afiq Aiman, was recovered at 6.44pm by Betong FRS Water Rescue Team after diving to the riverbed.” According to eyewitnesses, the victims were participating in recreational activities with friends, which include swimming in the river near the longhouse. The search and rescue operation ended at 7.04pm and the bodies of the victims were handed over to police – Bernama Woman killed after car plunges into pit KUALA LUMPUR: A woman was killed while four of her friends were injured after the four-wheel-drive they were in skidded before plunging into a ravine along Jalan Batang Kali on Sunday evening. Selangor Fire and Rescue Department assistant director of operations Ahmad Mukhlis Mokhtar said a distress call was received at 6.28pm and a team from Kuala Kubu Bharu Fire and Rescue Station was dispatched to the scene. “Upon arrival, the team found the four-wheel-drive had fallen into the ravine and rescue efforts to extricate a victim trapped in the vehicle took 10 minutes.” However, the 58-year-old woman was confirmed dead while the four other victims were taken to a nearby hospital. – Bernama Cops to probe death threats in syariah enactment case KUALA LUMPUR: Police have confirmed receiving three reports from lawyer Nik Elin Zurina Nik Abdul Rashid regarding death threats she received on social media after filing a petition in court relating to the Kelantan Syariah Criminal Code Enactment (1) 2019. Kuala Lumpur police chief Datuk Allaudeen Abdul Majid said an investigation is being carried out in accordance with Section 507 of the Penal Code and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act. “An investigation paper has been referred to the Attorney-General’s Chambers for further instructions while the other two are still under investigation. Police have also requested the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission to help identify the owners of the social media accounts involved.” Allaudeen also advised the public to not make threatening statements on social media as they can be investigated under the same law and Act. Nik Elin Zurina disclosed in a podcast that she received many threats including by those who wanted to “slaughter” her, Bernama reported. oLawyer who challenged Kelantan legislature receives messages warning that she would be ‘slaughtered’ On Friday, the Federal Court, in an 8-1 majority decision, ruled 16 provisions of offences under the Kelantan Syariah Criminal Code Enactment (1) 2019 were null and void on the grounds that the state legislature did not have power to enact laws on the offences because there were federal laws covering the same ones. The Federal Court made the ruling after allowing a petition filed by Nik Elin Zurina and her daughter Tengku Yasmin Nastasha Abdul Rahman to challenge the constitutionality and legality of 18 provisions of offences under the enactment. Nik Elin Zurina and Tengku Yasmin made the legal challenge on grounds that the provisions were invalid due to the Kelantan state legal authority having no power to enact such laws. Fire destroys five flat units in Cheras KUALA LUMPUR: A total of five units on the 17th floor of Block 70 of the Sri Sabah flats in Cheras were destroyed in a fire on Sunday night. Fire and Rescue Department operations and rescue director Nordin Pauzi said a distress call was received at 9.19pm, adding that seven fire engines, including two aerial ladder platform engines and 55 firefighters from the Hang Tuah, Bandar Tun Razak, Sri Hartamas and Pudu stations were dispatched to the scene. “The incident is believed to have started from house unit number three before spreading to four nearby homes. However, there were no casualties and the cause and extent of the damage are still under investigation.” He said initially, the fire department faced some difficulties in controlling the fire as it occurred on the 17th floor of the block, which led to firefighters using aerial ladder platform vehicles due to low water pressure. He said firefighters’ swift action ensured the fire was brought under control at 11.22pm. Nordin said 39 officers from agencies such as the Civil Defence Force and the Kuala Lumpur City Hall also assisted in the operation, adding that residents were allowed to return home after the operation was completed. Meanwhile, Cheras police chief ACP Zam Halim Jamaludin said initial investigations found no criminal elements in the incident. “Further investigation will be conducted by the fire department and any developments will be make known.” Zam Halim said 50 police officers will also be stationed at the scene to monitor and ensure the situation remains under control. – Bernama The blaze at its height before 55 firefighters brought it under control. – BERNAMAPIC
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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 Bleak future for street children living dark life KUALA LUMPUR: Twelve-year-old Dhani Ahmad (not his real name) dreams of establishing his own art gallery in the heart of the federal capital. The Kuala Lumpur-born boy, who developed an interest in visual arts since the age of six, sets forth his dream by drawing inspiration from famous artists in the country, including influencers who showcase their artistic talent on social media. However, looking at the lives of Dhani and his peers, who spend much of their time on the streets, making areas like Chow Kit, Lorong Haji Taib and Kampung Baru their playground until the wee hours, begs the question – can their dreams materialise without a helping hand? “My family cannot afford art classes for me, so I learn techniques on TikTok and YouTube. I am interested in creating portraits, landscapes and abstract paintings. I am also interested in oil painting methods and mural art and have participated in several mural projects in Kuala Lumpur and elsewhere,” said the fourth child of five siblings. “Although the price of a sketchpad is less than RM30, my father cannot always afford it. I have tried to earn extra money by painting in Bukit Bintang, but I cannot do it often because of the lack of painting materials, and I have a younger sibling to care for. “I hope to leave this gloomy neighbourhood and become a renowned artist someday. My friends in Chow Kit and I have witnessed firsthand the various threats here, often labelled as a black area,” he said, adding that he and his siblings were staying in a room rented by his father in Kampung Baru. Dhani, a student at Sekolah Bimbingan Jalinan Kasih in Chow Kit, walks about 8km from the rented room to his “playground” every day, where he spends time with fellow underprivileged children while waiting for food aid and engaging in activities such as playing football and cycling from 4pm to 3am. Dhani’s friend Arif Aiman, 12, also dreams of leading a better life in the future. “I want to become a policeman. I want to fight crime in this neighbourhood,” said the fifth child of 10 siblings, who lives with his father and stepmother in Lorong Haji Taib. Meanwhile, founder and chief activist of Pertubuhan Jejak Jalanan Azhan Adnan said the never-ending poverty polemics caused by low awareness among parents on the importance of education, lack of spiritual and religious values as well as identity documents, are major obstacles hindering them from leaving the area, Bernama reported. Azhan has been there almost every night for over two years since the end of the Covid pandemic. His bond with the residents is evident, especially with the children, who affectionately call him “abah” (father). By interacting with them, he could see how difficult it is for the residents to get out of the dark environment, that is plagued by various social problems that could get worse without prompt and proactive intervention. “More than 70 street children are currently in the area. However, the actual number is probably higher because street children are increasing, whether born to residents or moved here from other states. “Some of them have citizenship documents and some do not. They attend school, either at government-owned institutions or those run by NGOs. But the question remains, what happens to them after finishing school? This is not given proper attention, which is why most of these children drop out of school,” he said. “The time has come for the fate of these street children to be given serious attention, especially since the Madani government has pledged to address the issue of school dropouts. Only education can change them.” State level celebrations for all festivals SANDAKAN: The Sabah government will organise state-level celebrations for Chinese New Year and Christmas starting this year, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor. He said the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS)- led government has resolved to have these two celebrations organised by the state, similar to Aidilfitri and Pesta Kaamatan celebrations, as a testament to the state’s dedication to ensuring equality for all celebrations, irrespective of ethnicity or religion. “Open houses for all celebrations should foster unity and collaboration among the diverse ethnic and religious communities in the state,” he said at a Chinese New Year open house for the Sandakan district organised by the Tanjong Papat State Assemblyman’s Office and the Sandakan Municipal Council. Hajiji also called on the people to work closely with the state government to realise the objectives outlined in the Sabah Maju Jaya development plan. “The plan, initiated in 2021, is currently progressing well and with sustained backing from the people, the state economy is poised for further growth, drawing increased interest from potential investors. “Our primary focus remains on advancing state development and improving the welfare of the people through economic initiatives,” he said, adding that if the momentum is maintained, more programmes could be implemented to enhance the well-being of the people. – Bernama oGovt aid for documentation, proper education only escape route out of Chow Kit ‘black area’: Activist
TUESDAY | FEB 13, 2024 7 Prabowo in pole position provided him with a level of validation and visibility he previously lacked, earning him red carpet treatment as defence minister on trips from Paris to Beijing, and the end of his de facto US travel ban in 2020 when he visited the Pentagon. His nine million Instagram followers get to see snaps from his day job, interspersed with offerings of his cats, artistic black and white portraits, and vintage family photographs. Many young Indonesians have become endeared to Prabowo, particularly his awkward dance moves in public that have gone viral on TikTok, helping him to tap a key demographic. More than half of Indonesian voters are under 40, with limited knowledge of the darker narratives of his hardline military past and his ascent under Suharto’s autocratic rule. “Prabowo’s team is clearly portraying Prabowo in a ‘softer’ way in an effort to win over undecided voters. It’s a change from previous campaigns where we’ve seen nationalist populist Prabowo, and pro-Islamist Prabowo,” said Ross Tapsell, from the Australian National University. In another sign of the image makeover, in a television interview, Prabowo, known for his legendary temper, came across as humorous and avuncular. Referring to his time as a soldier, Prabowo said: “Maybe the perception of me was that I was tough, scary. I am not scary now, right?” – Reuters Ox carts transporting ballots and forms to remote polling stations in Lampung, Sumatra on Sunday. – AFPPIC oNumbers suggest rebranding is working Candidates duke it out on TikTok JAKARTA: At an Indonesian presidential campaign event, 22-year-old voter Irene Putri Aisyah was busy uploading everything she saw – from cute dances to cooking demonstrations – to short video app TikTok. To court young voters like Irene, all three candidates in the race to lead Indonesia have gravitated toward TikTok, which has 125 million users in the country, second only to the United States. But experts say the platform is also flooded with problematic content that attempts to manipulate young voters, who make up over half of about 205 million registered voters in the country. In this new online battleground, Prabowo Subianto, a once-feared military man, has rebranded himself as a cuddly statesman. Videos of his awkward dance moves, reminiscent of local martial arts, have got millions of views, inspiring others to mimic him. When the frontrunner faced stinging barbs from rivals in a televised debate, women supporters shared videos of themselves crying for Prabowo. Rivals Anies Baswedan and Ganjar Pranowo have also ramped up their presence on the app, answering questions in real-time during livestreamed sessions or sharing videos of heartfelt encounters with voters. “TikTok is the most appealing app for firsttime voters, so it does have a big influence as a platform to campaign and propagate electionrelated information,” said Anita Wahid, a researcher who has worked with TikTok on issues related to online trust and safety. During the campaign period, TikTok became Indonesians’ second-most used source of information on politics, after television, according to a January survey by pollster Indikator Politik Indonesia. “We can easily find information about Prabowo on TikTok,” voter Irene said. But experts have flagged some of this information may be incorrect. Endah Triastuti, a communications researcher at the University of Indonesia, says that because of such content, many young voters may not be aware that Prabowo has been forced to deny allegations of human rights abuses during his time as special forces commander. Manipulated images and “deepfake”videos of the candidates have also circulated widely. TikTok says on its website its policy is to remove “harmful misinformation” and work with fact-checkers to flag or debunk it. Political ads and fundraising are also banned on the platform. “We prioritise protecting the integrity of elections on our platform so that our community can continue to enjoy creative and entertaining TikTok experiences,” a TikTok spokesperson said in an email. Young voters prefer to see candidates create fun content, which explains the app’s enduring appeal and success in this election, said researcher Anita Wahid. “This is a new battle.” – Reuters Students plan protest over alleged interference JAKARTA: Hundreds of Indonesian students and activists had planned to stage protests yesterday over what they see as outgoing President Joko Widodo’s abuse of power to sway voters in this week’s election in favour of frontrunner, Prabowo Subianto, organisers said. Jokowi, as the incumbent is known, has not explicitly endorsed any of the three candidates vying to replace him as leader of the world’s thirdlargest democracy. But he has made highly publicised appearances with Prabowo, and his eldest son is running on the same ticket as vice president. Two opinion surveys last week projected Prabowo could secure more than 50% of the votes tomorrow, allowing him to win in a single round. Rivals Anies Baswedan and Ganjar Pranowo were seen at least 20 points behind. Some voters have taken issue with Jokowi’s perceived lack of neutrality, saying it undermines Indonesia’s democracy by giving one candidate an unfair advantage . “The ethical and moral breaches by Jokowi show that he is against a critical public voice,“ said Aksi Gejayan Memanggil, a protest organiser in Yogyakarta. Another protest was planned in Jakarta by several rights groups. The presidential office has denied political meddling by Jokowi. The planned protests come after a documentary produced by an Indonesian investigative journalist, Dandhy Laksono, alleged that state officials including police and regional heads, and government welfare resources have been used to favour Prabowo. The film, Dirty Vote, released at the weekend, had garnered nearly four million views on YouTube by yesterday. Reuters could not independently verify the allegations made in the documentary. Prabowo’s campaign team has dismissed the accusations and described “most of the content in the film as defamatory”. The government has said social welfare is not being used to benefit any candidate. The student protests also come as Indonesia enters a cooling-off period. Authorities were seen removing candidates’ billboards and posters, and candidates are barred from campaigning during this period. Indonesia’s police will deploy around 25,000 anti-riot personnel to ensure security during the election. – Reuters B R I E F SOVERSEAS VOTING GOES SMOOTHLY JAKARTA: The voting process for Indonesia’s General Election, which commenced at the start of the month and continues until tomorrow outside the country, including Malaysia, is relatively smooth, according to the Indonesian Foreign Affairs Ministry. Despite occasional issues, its spokesperson Lalu Muhamad Iqbal affirmed that the process is progressing well, thanks to the assistance provided by embassies, consulates, and the Overseas Election Committee in each country. He said that the ministry and its representatives abroad are not the organisers, but they bear a moral responsibility to support the successful conduct of the election. “Organising elections abroad presents challenges as we must adhere to local laws and regulations. Hence, support and facilitation from representatives are crucial,“ he said. Eligible Indonesian citizens across various countries have exercised their voting rights at 3,059 polling centres. Indonesia is observing a three-day cooling-off period ending today ahead of the voting tomorrow. – Bernama QATAR FREES EIGHT INDIAN DETAINEES NEW DELHI: India’s Foreign Ministry said yesterday that Qatar had freed eight ex-navy personnel it had previously arrested and sentenced to death, reportedly for spying for Israel. It did not give details of the eight Indian nationals or their alleged crimes, and Qatar has not commented on the case or made the charges public. “The Government of India welcomes the release of eight Indian nationals working for the Dahra Global company who were detained in Qatar,” the Foreign Ministry said in a statement. “Seven out of the eight of them have returned to India,“ it added, thanking Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani for the decision “to enable the release and homecoming” of the detainees. Indian media have reported that the men – among them former high-ranking and decorated officers, including captains who once commanded warships – were arrested in Doha in August 2022. In October, India said it was “shocked” after a Qatari court had sentenced them to death, but the sentence was reduced in December. The eight men were employees of Al Dahra, a Gulf-based company that offers “complete support solutions” to the aerospace, security and defence sectors. – AFP JAKARTA: Dismissed from the military amid speculation of rights abuses, exiled in Jordan, and once banned from the United States over his alleged dark past, Defence Minister Prabowo Subianto is now in pole position to be Indonesia’s next leader. The twice presidential loser is trying his luck for a third time, with incumbent Joko Widodo’s tacit backing, and the hugely popular president’s son as his running mate. The former special forces commander has undergone a remarkable transformation since being appointed defence minister in 2019, cultivating a persona that is more charismatic statesman than the fiery, pious nationalist he earlier portrayed, analysts say. From an elite Indonesian family and once the son-in-law of late strongman president Suharto, Prabowo is accused of involvement in the kidnapping of student activists in 1998 and human rights abuses in Papua and East Timor. The allegations are unproven, and Prabowo has always denied any responsibility. And as the 72-year-old draws closer to tomorrow’s vote, the numbers suggest his rebranding is working. Surveys have consistently shown Prabowo is the candidate to beat, with a lead that stretched to a huge 28 points in polls released late last week by Indikator Politik and Lembaga Survei Indonesia, which projected him winning a majority with 51.8% and 51.9% support respectively. Unable to run after serving the maximum two terms, Widodo, better known as Jokowi, has signalled his support for once bitter enemy Prabowo, who he defeated in the 2014 and 2019 elections. With his 36-year-old son as a possible vicepresident, Jokowi is seeking to retain some influence in government, analysts say. By appointing Prabowo to his cabinet, Jokowi
TUESDAY | FEB 13, 2024 8 Vandals burn self-driving taxi WASHINGTON: A self-driving taxi was smashed and lit aflame in San Francisco over the weekend. The autonomous vehicle from tech firm Waymo, owned by Google parent company Alphabet, was targeted by a group of people apparently carrying fireworks. No one was in the car and there were no reported injuries from the Saturday night incident, Waymo said. “A crowd surrounded and vandalised the vehicle, breaking the window and throwing a firework inside, which set the vehicle on fire,“ said a Waymo spokesperson. “The vehicle was not transporting any riders,“ the spokesperson added. “We are working closely with local safety officials to respond to the situation.” Images posted on social media showed the white Jaguar stopped in a crowded street in San Francisco. Several people dressed in black are shown breaking the windows, including one using a skateboard. Other videos show the vehicle with its windows broken and fireworks exploding inside, before it catches fire and shoots out a massive plume of smoke. San Francisco has been the main testing ground for gradual piloting of autonomous vehicles in the US. A few days before the incident, a cyclist was injured after being hit by a Waymo car. Cruise, another autonomous vehicle company and owned by automotive giant General Motors, suspended its activities at the end of October after several accidents sparked a crackdown by California regulators. Tesla’s “autopilot” feature has also come under scrutiny, facing accusations the marketing of the feature has oversold its actual abilities. “Autopilot” was involved in 736 accidents and 17 deaths since 2019, according to a Washington Post report analysing data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, a regulator. – AFP B R I E F SN. KOREA TESTS ROCKET LAUNCHER CONTROLLER SEOUL: North Korea has successfully developed a ballistic control system for a multiple rocket launcher along with controllable shells. The Academy of Defence Science, which oversees the country’s missile development, conducted a “ballistic control” test firing of 240-mm calibre controllable multiple rocket launcher shells on Sunday, state media KCNA said. The strategic value of the 240-mm calibre multiple rocket launcher will be “reevaluated”. Its role in the battlefield is expected to increase due to what it called “rapid technical improvement”, it said. Sunday’s launch comes amid multiple missile tests by North Korea in recent weeks and growing ties between Pyongyang and Moscow – moves that have been criticised by the US and its allies as escalating tensions in the Korean Peninsula. North Korea has accused the US and South Korea of escalating tensions with their large-scale military drills. – Reuters BIDEN JOINS TIKTOK AHEAD OF ELECTION WASHINGTON: US President Joe Biden belatedly joined TikTok on Sunday, marking his debut on the social media platform with a 26-second video. The move comes after fierce US government criticism of the videosharing platform in recent years. TikTok is owned by Chinese firm ByteDance and has been accused by US politicians of being a propaganda tool, something the company furiously denies. In Sunday’s video posted on the @bidenhq campaign account, the 81-year-old touches light-heartedly on topics ranging from politics to the NFL championship game. – AFP ‘Criminal firms won Australian public contracts’ SYDNEY: Australia awarded public contracts to firms suspected of money laundering, bribery, arms running, drug smuggling and corruption, according to the findings of a probe into lax procurement practices published yesterday. A damning investigation by Australia’s former spy chief found that several companies and individuals who won contracts to manage Australia’s controversial offshore migrant detention programmes were suspected of engaging in unethical or illegal activities. “It’s possible that hundreds of millions of dollars was funnelled from taxpayers into companies which were using that money in part to conduct criminal wrongdoing,” said oEx-spy chief finds proper due diligence lacking Home Affairs Minister Clare O’Neil, who commissioned the report. Under Australia’s so-called “Pacific Solution”, thousands of people who attempted to reach the country by boat were moved to offshore “processing” centres on the Pacific islands of Manus and Nauru from 2001. Many languished in the camps for years, in conditions described by rights groups as “hellish”. Sparked by media reports that some companies contracted to implement the policy were suspect, Dennis Richardson – a former head of the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation and ambassador to Washington – was called in to investigate. He found that “proper due diligence was lacking when it came to contracts with relatively small companies with limited or no public profile.” In one notable instance, the owners of a contracted company “were suspected, through the ownership of another company, of seeking to circumvent US sanctions against Iran, and with extensive suspicious money movements suggesting money laundering, bribery and other criminal activity”. Other individuals or businesses were under investigation by Australian police at the time, were being investigated for drug and arms smuggling into Australia or were suspected of corruption. “With proper due diligence, Home Affairs could have considered alternative suppliers,” Richardson concluded. The offshore detention programme was heavily criticised by human rights groups, but survived for decades under governments from each side of the political spectrum. It has since been replicated by the British government in its beleaguered “Rwanda scheme”, which plans to send migrants to the central African nation run by President Paul Kagame for the last 24 years. – AFP Two ex-Guantanamo prisoners return to Kabul KABUL: Two former prisoners held at the US detention centre in Guantanamo Bay until 2017 returned to Afghanistan yesterday, more than 20 years after they were arrested, one of the men’s relatives said. Abdul Karim and Abdul Zahir landed in Kabul early yesterday from Oman, where they had been transferred in 2017 and held under house arrest, said Zahir’s son Mohammad Osman and airport staff. “With the grace of God and efforts by the leaders of the emirate, he has returned to the country,” Osman said, referring to Afghanistan’s Taliban authorities. US authorities faced accusations of torture and abuse against prisoners at the Guantanamo Bay facility, where many were held without charge or the legal power to challenge their detention. Most of the military prison’s inmates have been released over the years, including senior Taliban leaders. “I am very happy. When I woke up in the morning, I felt like it was Eid for me,“ said Osman. The returnees were whisked to a VIP area away from invited media and a jostling crowd of supporters. Zahir arrived at the controversial prison in 2002, the year it opened in Cuba in the wake of the Sept 11, 2001, attacks on the United States, according to Afghan Interior Ministry spokesman Abdul Mateen and US documents. Karim arrived in 2003, having been detained and held in Pakistan before he was handed over to US custody. They were among hundreds of suspected militants captured by US forces during the United States’s so-called “War on Terror” and held in the secretive prison. Both men had been under surveillance without the right to travel for seven years in the Gulf kingdom of Oman, Qani said in X on Sunday. “Due to the efforts of the Emirate of Afghanistan, the imposed restrictions will be lifted and they will return to their homeland,“ he added. Billboards welcoming the two men back to Afghanistan were erected on the road to the airport ahead of their arrival and a heavy security presence was deployed yesterday. One Afghan prisoner, Muhammad Rahim, remains in detention at Guantanamo Bay. His family in November called for his release. The US government has for years said it is working to reduce the number of detainees and eventually shut down Guantanamo Bay, which lies on the island of Cuba but is under US jurisdiction. – AFP LIGHT SHOWER ... Fireworks light up Victoria Harbour on the second day of the Lunar New Year of the Dragon in Hong Kong. – AFPPIX
TUESDAY | FEB 13, 2024 9 Israel frees two hostages in Rafah o67 killed in air strikes cover for rescue DOHA: Israel launched a special forces operation that freed two Israeli hostages in Rafah amid air strikes early yesterday, which health officials said killed 67 people and wounded dozens in the southern Gaza city. A joint operation by the Israel Defence Force (IDF), Israel’s domestic Shin Bet security service and the Special Police Unit in Rafah freed Fernando Simon Marman, 60, and Louis Hare, 70, the Israeli military said. The two men, who were kidnapped by Hamas from Kibbutz Nir Yitzhak on Oct 7, were in good condition and taken to the Tel Hashomer Medical Complex, the military said. “It was a very complex operation,” Israeli military spokesman Lt-Col Richard Hecht said. “We’ve been working a long time on this operation. We were waiting for the right conditions.” The hostages were being held on the second floor of a building that was breached with an explosive charge during the raid, which saw heavy exchanges of gunfire with surrounding buildings, Hecht said. At the same time, air strikes were carried out to allow the the extraction, he said. The air strikes caused widespread panic in Rafah as many people were asleep when the strikes started, said residents contacted by Reuters using a chat app. Some feared Israel had begun its ground offensive into Rafah. Israeli planes, tanks and ships took part in the strikes, with two mosques and several houses hit, according to residents. The Israeli military said yesterday it had conducted a “series of strikes” on southern Gaza that have now “concluded”, without providing further details. Before previous assaults on Gaza cities, Israel’s military has ordered civilians to leave without preparing any specific evacuation plan. US President Joe Biden told Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday that Israel should not launch a military operation in Rafah without a credible plan to ensure the safety of the roughly one million people sheltering there, the White House said. Aid agencies say an assault on Rafah would be catastrophic. It is the last relatively safe place in an enclave devastated by Israel’s military offensive. Biden and Netanyahu spoke for about 45 minutes, days after the US leader said Israel’s military response in the Gaza Strip had been “over the top” and expressed grave concern over the rising civilian death toll in the Palestinian enclave. Netanyahu’s office has said that it had ordered the military to develop a plan to evacuate Rafah and destroy four Hamas battalions it says are deployed there. Hamas fighters killed 1,200 people in southern Israel and abducted at least 250 in their Oct 7 incursion, according to Israeli tallies. Israel has responded with a military assault on the Gaza Strip that has killed more than 28,000 Palestinians, according to the Hamas-run Health Ministry. Netanyahu said in an interview aired on Sunday that “enough” of the 132 remaining Israeli hostages held in Gaza were alive to justify Israel’s war in the region. Aqsa Television on Sunday quoted a senior Hamas leader as saying any Israeli ground offensive in Rafah would “blow up” the hostage-exchange negotiations. Egypt warned of “dire consequences” of a military assault on Rafah, which lies near its border. “Egypt called for the necessity of uniting all international and regional efforts to prevent the targeting of Rafah,” its Foreign Ministry added in a statement. – Reuters Justice tested as collaboration cases mount DNIPRO: Standing in a glass-walled dock in a courtroom in eastern Ukraine, suspected collaborator Oksana Shepel pleaded with a judge to free her. “I have no previous convictions, a permanent place of residence, strong social ties and an underage child,” she argued. The hearing in a grey low-rise court building here is one of thousands of cases against Ukrainians accused of collaborating with Russia. Similar to trials after World War II, the cases also highlight the complexities of meting out justice in parts of the country where residents historically have had split loyalties to Kyiv and Moscow. They are being seen as a test of the justice system amid concern over fairness and illustrate the moral dilemmas faced by people who have lived under occupation. The Prosecutor General’s Office has registered over 7,000 cases of collaboration and several thousand more on similar charges. The number will rise exponentially if Ukraine succeeds in its aim of re-capturing the roughly 20% of its territory in Russian hands. There have been verdicts in 941 collaboration cases, the UN rights office OHCHR said in December, cautioning that some of those convicted had “worked for the benefit of the local population”. Some collaboration cases involve senior officials or those who joined the Russian military or police. But many, like Shepel, 39, who is accused of working in the Russian-appointed local administration in Lyman during a four-month occupation, are accused over civilian jobs. Her lawyer, Roman Ukhov, said that Shepel worked as an ordinary postwoman. “Prosecutors say, though there’s no direct proof, that for 28 days of occupation, she worked in a division receiving applications for humanitarian aid,“ he said. “There shouldn’t be such a harsh charge based on the evidence,“ Ukhov said. Shepel is charged with voluntarily organising collaborative activities – a crime punishable by five to 10 years in jail. Reading from notes, Shepel told the judge: “The position I’m charged with holding did not cause any harm to the state or other people. I did not perform any managerial functions.” Opinions in Ukraine are divided. A survey for the School for Policy Analysis in October found 51% of Ukrainians think those who distributed Russian humanitarian aid in occupied areas should be punished. An estimated 26% thought they should not be. Ukraine needs to change the law “to criminalise the most prominent cases of collaboration, but not ordinary supporting likes or reposts on Facebook”, said Olena Luniova, advocacy director at ZMINA, which monitors collaboration trials. – AFP Ukraine peace a distant prospect B R I E F SMISSILES DAMAGE SHIP OFF YEMEN DUBAI: A vessel was hit by missiles off Yemen’s southern coast yesterday while transiting the strategic Bab al-Mandeb strait. The incident occurred before 4am local time (9am in Malaysia) in an area where Houthi rebels have repeatedly targeted Red Sea shipping, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) agency said. “The crew are reported safe and the vessel is proceeding to next port of call.“ Another security firm, Ambrey, said the Marshall Islands-flagged, Greece-owned bulk carrier “was targeted by missiles in two separate incidents” within 20 minutes and “was reportedly hit and sustained damage on the starboard side”. The vessel had an armed security team on board, Ambrey said. The Houthis, part of the anti-Western, anti-Israel “axis of resistance” of Iran-backed groups, have been targeting Red Sea shipping vessels for months, triggering US and British reprisal attacks. The group owner and operator of the bulk carrier targeted yesterday was listed on the US stock market index NASDAQ, which was identified as the likely reason for the attack. – AFP ARMENIA DECLARES IT IS NOT RUSSIA’S ALLY YEREVAN: Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said in an interview that his country was not Russia’s ally in its war against Ukraine, but stressed its military cooperation projects were not directed against any single country. Pashinyan also said he hoped that Armenia’s neighbour, Azerbaijan, remained committed to the conclusion of a durable peace treaty despite statements by its president about demarcating borders. Pashinyan has said in recent months that Armenia could no longer rely on Russia to ensure its defence needs as his country had not secured the help it had needed from Moscow. In his remarks to Britain’s Daily Telegraph, Pashinyan said he had said from the outset of Russia’s February 2022 invasion of Ukraine that it could not stand alongside Moscow as an ally. – Reuters PARIS: After two years of war in Ukraine, there is no prospect of negotiations to find a breakthrough as Russian President Vladimir Putin, emboldened by the erosion of Western support for Kyiv, girds for a long conflict. Ukraine is determined to recapture territory while Putin will only be satisfied with Kyiv’s full surrender, analysts and diplomats say. Putin may have signalled in last week’s interview with Tucker Carlson that Russia was interested in negotiations but this would be so much on Moscow’s own terms that Kyiv would not countenance such talks. “I don’t see any negotiations taking place any time soon,“ said Fyodor Lukyanov, head of the Kremlin-linked Council on Foreign and Defence Policy think tank in Moscow. “There’s nothing they can negotiate about.” While the winter of 2022 was humiliating for Putin, who failed to take Kyiv within days, he has now regrouped and appears reinvigorated by Ukraine’s unsuccessful counteroffensive, the prospect of Donald Trump returning to the White House in a November presidential election and the rise of the far-right in Europe. “Wouldn’t it be better to negotiate with Russia?” Putin told Carlson, urging the United States to discuss a deal that would allow Moscow to control 20% of Ukraine’s territory. “Sooner or later we’ll come to an agreement anyway.” Mykhailo Podoliak, an adviser to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, reiterated Kyiv’s position that no negotiations were possible until Russia withdraws from occupied territories. A European diplomat also ruled out any talks. “Negotiations can only take place when Ukraine is in a position of strength on the ground,“ said the diplomat. – AFP A Palestinian Civil Defence personnel fights a fire at the site of an Israeli strike yesterday. – REUTERSPIC
10 TUESDAY | FEB 13, 2024 @thesundaily FOLLOW ON TWITTER Malaysian Paper Education remains an important pillar of Malaysian society; it equips students with the skills needed to become productive and useful members of society. We invite you to showcase the best of education and the difference your institution has brought to the education landscape. Education matters so join us in 2024! Contact us now for special deals on digital, video and print advertising. Malaysian Paper 03-7784 6688 [email protected] Preventing scams and fraud I N 2023, Malaysia experienced a significant escalation in financial scams as evidenced by alarming statistics. The Securities Commission (SC) reported a notable increase in scam-related complaints, with about 2,873 cases logged in just the third quarter, indicating a growing trend compared with previous years. In response, the SC has intensified enforcement, including updating the Alert List with 274 new entries and blocking numerous websites and social media accounts associated with fraudulent activities. The financial impact of these scams is substantial, with losses amounting to RM27 million reported in February 2023 and an additional RM100 million lost by 330 victims over a brief two-week period as reported in March 2023. These figures underscore the urgent need for heightened awareness and proactive measures to combat investment fraud in the country. Financial scams come in various forms as scammers prey on the unsuspecting, exploiting the vulnerable. For all the good that the digital era has given us, it has also given rise to new types of scams that can be conducted with unprecedented anonymity and reach. Social media platforms have become breeding grounds for investment scams, with fraudsters creating fake profiles and groups to promote fraudulent schemes. Fake profiles, glittering promises and exclusive invitations to join “the club” are just the tip of the iceberg. These scams often masquerade as exclusive investment opportunities or lucrative business ventures, leveraging the trust and connectivity of social networks to deceive unsuspecting victims. Traditional Ponzi schemes have been a major issue. Many notable cases involving large organisations have affected 400,000 people, causing an estimated RM500 million in losses. Overall, losses from such scams exceed RM1 billion annually. The Geneva Gold Futures scandal involved RM5.5 billion and 35,000 investors. Additionally, cash trusts offering suspiciously high returns of up to 36% per annum are suspected to be Ponzi schemes, with RM1 billion taken from the market in a year. These statistics and cases highlight the widespread impact and financial damage caused by these fraudulent activities in Malaysia. In light of the continuing evolution of the Ponzi schemes, potential investors should exercise due diligence and scepticism, thoroughly researching investment opportunities and consulting with financial experts if necessary. Individuals can protect themselves from falling victim to financial scams by exercising caution, especially when presented with too-good-to-be-true opportunities. Here are some important tips to stay safe: 0 Keep updated about the latest scams and scammers’ tactics. Knowledge is a powerful defence against deception. 0 Always verify the legitimacy of emails, messages or investment opportunities through official channels. Make direct contact with the purported sender or organisation using verified contact information. 0 When engaging in online transactions or investments, always ascertain that the website has a secure connection indicated by https://. Ensure the platforms are secure and reputable, and stay alert for any signs of phishing attempts. 0 Do not overshare online. It is important not to post sensitive details such as financial and personal information on social media platforms as scammers often use this information to target their victims. 0 Always consult with qualified financial professionals before making significant investment decisions. They can offer valuable insights and help with identifying red flags. 0 If an opportunity seems too good to be true, it probably is. The promise of high returns with minimal risk is a classic indicator of a possible scam. 0 If you encounter a scam or suspicious activity, report it to the relevant authorities, such as the National Scam Response Centre or local law enforcement agency. Your action may help prevent others from falling victim. Scam cases remain prevalent due to the evolving tactics of scammers, the global nature of the internet and the vulnerability of individuals to social engineering. Reducing the number of cases requires a concerted effort involving education, technology, legislation and international cooperation. By addressing these aspects comprehensively, we can make significant strides in reducing the prevalence of scams and protecting potential victims. The writer is a lecturer at the School of Marketing and Management at Taylor’s Business School, Faculty of Business and Law at Taylor’s University. Comments: [email protected] “Scam cases remain prevalent due to the evolving tactics of scammers, the global nature of the internet and the vulnerability of individuals to social engineering. The Geneva Gold Futures scandal involved RM5.5 billion and 35,000 investors. – REUTERSPIC COMMENT by Assoc Prof Dr Chong Wei Ying
11 TUESDAY | FEB 13, 2024 Malaysia’s royalty extraordinaire MUCH has been written about our new King, Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar, however, much less has been written or is known about his consort and our new Queen, Raja Zarith Sofiah Sultan Idris Shah. With the dawning of a new year according to the Chinese lunar calendar, heralding a good year for the dragon symbolising authority, prosperity and good fortune, Malaysians should take comfort in the pivotal balancing role that royalty can play in our society and political life. Fourteen years ago, readers of the country’s leading newspapers, coupled with a relatively modest social media audience at the time, may have overlooked the news coverage of a significant speech delivered by Her Majesty. This address took place during the “Voices of Peace, Conscience, and Reason” conference, an event I attended on Nov 16, 2010, in Kuala Lumpur. The prime mover of the meeting was PCORE, a citizen’s group. This small NGO has been active in sharing its peace paradigm to achieve unity and integration in the country. Following that meeting, I highlighted that credit must be given to PCORE for bringing together a diverse mix of young and older people from different backgrounds to voice their concerns on current issues and developments in the country. I also noted that “for me, the real star of the conference was Raja Zarith Sofiah”. Embracing common identity and humanity In her keynote address at the event, she characterised the term pendatang, used to describe non-bumiputras, as “hurtful and ignorant”, emphasising the need for more discussions to address and resolve the gulf between ethnic and religious communities. “Rather than simplify and shy away from sensitive issues, we should fight destructive rhetoric with constructive dialogue. It is shameful when educated and mature individuals use such terms or suggest fellow Malaysians go back to where they came from.” Describing her ancestral background as a mix of Sumatran and Peranakan Chinese, she said it was important to recognise the diversity of Malaysian society, brought about by centuries of interracial and interfaith marriages and communication. This open acknowledgement of her mixed ancestral background during a public event was unprecedented. Accomplishments Raja Zarith Sofiah’s speech was more than what was reported in the newspapers. She also delved into her personal experiences and reflections on religion, and emphasised the importance for Muslims to learn about other cultures, religions and their respective heritages. She spoke from the heart, without the need for any convoluted intellectual argument or lofty cliches to drive home the significance of cherishing and protecting Malaysia, a nation that belongs to everyone regardless of social status or race – be they brown, yellow, black or white – and regardless of religious beliefs, whether worshipping one God, many Gods or none at all. Readers may not be fully aware of the wide-ranging accomplishments and interests of our Queen. She holds a Bachelor of Arts and a Master’s Degree from Oxford University, with her undergraduate studies focused on Chinese Studies. Besides Malay and English, she is fluent in Mandarin, Italian and French, a true language polyglot that few in the country can match. She is not only a patron of the arts but also an artist and author who has written children’s books, including Puteri Gunung Ledang, and published a compilation of newspaper columns in a volume titled On Common Ground. She is also a patron of the Tebrau Rotary Club Foundation in Johor Bahru, vice president of the Johor Women’s Council and president of the Malaysian Girl Guides Association Johor Branch. Sleepless nights We need the type of monarchy she represents to unify the nation and to remind us of our common humanity. With her and other royalties who share her level of commitment to the country, there is greater hope that the nation can overcome the racial and religious divisions that afflict many Malaysians. During our lunch conversation, which spanned topics from the impact of smartphones and Skype on our daily lives to the challenges of sleep apnea, our group discovered that she has experienced sleepless nights contemplating the plight of our country and its people, pondering how she can best serve them. The insomnia that troubles her also afflicts loyal and patriotic Malaysians who are concerned about the future of the country. In one of her posts on the Royal Johor Facebook page titled “Love knows no colour”, shortly after her 60th birthday, Raja Zarith Sofiah shared her love for her Chinese maternal grandmother. She also reminded: “Children, if left to their pure and innocent thoughts and their understanding of the world, are oblivious to racial differences. It is us as parents who consciously or unconsciously make them aware of these differences.” This is good advice for young and adult Malaysians who are continually exposed to a concoction of racial and religious differences, amplified by local peddlers of bigotry and bolstered by foreign counterparts. Nevertheless, it is not too late for our nation’s leaders to steer us away from the brink of a failed state with principled and decisive action. Many foresee dire consequences should the flames of racial and religious bigotry remain unchecked. Lim Teck Ghee’s Another Take is aimed at demystifying social orthodoxy. Comments: [email protected] The Queen is not only a patron of the arts but also an artist and author who has written children’s books. – BERNAMAPIC THE College of Physicians of Malaysia expresses gratitude to the Health minister for his unwavering commitment to resolving the ongoing specialist training issues. The college is also relieved to note that the Health Ministry has no plans to abolish the Parallel Pathway programme. The College of Physicians of Malaysia represents all Internal Medicine, Psychiatry and Rehabilitation Medicine Specialists in Malaysia. Specialisation in Internal Medicine follows after the completion of housemanship. Medical officers have the option to specialise in Internal Medicine through either the Masters of Internal Medicine programme offered by local universities or the Parallel Pathway provided by the Health Ministry. Internal Medicine Training represents a vital conduit to subspecialisation in the fields of Cardiology, Dermatology, Endocrinology, Advanced Acute Internal Medicine, Infectious Disease, Geriatric Medicine, Haematology, Nephrology, Neurology, Palliative Medicine, Pulmonology, Rheumatology, Gastroenterology and Hepatology. Therefore, any impact which adversely affects Internal Medicine training will have a domino effect on all the above subspecialties. The Parallel Pathway Internal Medicine, which has been and remains the primary route for training physicians in Malaysia, comprises a structured training programme spanning four years. This programme involves supervised training within the Health Ministry and provides physicians the opportunity to attain membership of either the Federation of the Royal College of Physicians in the UK or the Royal College of Physicians in Ireland. The College of Physicians unequivocally supports the Parallel Pathway as an essential avenue for the training of physicians in Malaysia. The College also supports the Master’s programmes offered by local universities. Both avenues are necessary to ensure that we can train many high-quality specialists to address the serious shortage while adhering to standards as determined by the Malaysian Medical Council. Both pathways should continue to serve their roles and complement each other. This is to ensure that Malaysian doctors are given an unencumbered opportunity to specialise as physicians, and ultimately cater to the domestic population. The College of Physicians also urges a review of policies governing Federal Training Grants, which currently restrict options for specialisation in Internal Medicine. This revision will allow doctors the option to selffund their specialist training within a structured programme while adhering to standards, thus alleviating unnecessary financial burden on an already overstretched system. The College of Physicians is also concerned about the decline in the number of trainee registrations into the Parallel Pathway programme as this will inevitably affect the availability of physicians serving the Malaysian population. The College of Physicians is the largest participant of the Parallel Pathway programme, with over 1,000 doctors in various phases of training within Internal Medicine. A large number of these trainees are based in East Malaysia, where the demand for physicians is particularly acute. The College of Physicians must engage all stakeholders in devising a long-term strategy. This collaborative initiative must also include existing medical societies representing junior doctors. Malaysia can only be stronger if all parties work together. Strategic planning to meet the long-term goals is urgently needed to ensure that Malaysia is not only able to maintain its excellent international reputation in the quality of our healthcare but that the fraternity fulfils its potential in producing global leaders in medical care. College of Physicians of Malaysia LETTERS [email protected] Resolving medical specialist training issues ANOTHER TAKE BY LIM TECK GHEE “Five years ago I spoke about the importance for all of us to accept each other as fellow citizens of the country we love, regardless of our race or religion. I feel the same now: we are all Malaysians and each one of us has the right to call Malaysia home. – Her Majesty Raja Zarith Sofiah
HEALTH HEALTH 12 TUESDAY | FEB 13, 2024 Embracing holistic wellbeing I N the wake of receiving unsettling health prognoses, the refrain often heard is, “If only I had known, I would have taken preventative measures.” Indeed, many health issues simmer beneath the surface for years, ignored until they manifest as obesity, heart disease, diabetes and more. However, the remedy lies in the simple yet powerful trio of Rest, Exercise and Diet (RED). Let us delve deeper into these pillars and chart a comprehensive course for embracing holistic wellbeing in the new year. The restorative power of quality sleep Sleep plays a pivotal role in facilitating essential physiological processes. While many pride themselves on pushing through fatigue, the truth is that the body requires adequate rest to function optimally. Aim for a minimum of seven hours of sleep per night to allow for cell regeneration, tissue repair and immune system fortification. During restorative sleep, the heart rate and breathing slow down while muscles relax, paving the way for physical rejuvenation. Furthermore, sleep plays a crucial role in cognitive function and emotional wellbeing. To optimise your sleep quality, consider implementing the following adjustments: 0 Limit exposure to electronic devices, such as mobile phones, at least 30 minutes before bedtime to minimise blue light exposure, which can disrupt the body’s natural sleepwake cycle. 0 Establish a consistent sleep schedule by going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, even on weekends. 0 Practice stress management techniques, such as meditation or deep breathing exercises, to alleviate anxiety and promote relaxation. 0 Be mindful of your diet and avoid consuming stimulants, such as caffeine, close to bedtime, as they can interfere with sleep quality. 0 Create a conducive sleep environment by keeping the bedroom dark, cool and quiet to promote melatonin production, the hormone responsible for regulating sleep-wake cycles. If sleep disturbances persist, do not hesitate to consult your healthcare provider. Certain medications and underlying health conditions, such as insomnia or sleep apnea, may warrant further Ready to revolutionise your health? Discover the three keys to wellbeing. oThe three pillars of health Start your path to wellness by adopting a healthy lifestyle. evaluation and treatment by a sleep specialist. Elevating your exercise routine and finding joy in movement In today’s fast-paced world, carving out time for exercise may seem like a daunting task. However, the benefits of regular physical activity cannot be overstated. Being physically inactive sets the stage for a cascade of health consequences, including an increased risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, diabetes and cardiovascular disorders. Conversely, engaging in regular exercise releases endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good hormones and reduces stressrelated hormones like cortisol, thereby improving mood and mental wellbeing. To incorporate more movement into your daily routine, consider the following strategies: 0 Find activities that bring you joy and make exercise feel less like a chore. Whether it is going for a morning walk, dancing to your favourite music or taking the stairs instead of the elevator, choose activities that resonate with you. 0 Integrate exercise into family life by planning outdoor outings or participating in physical activities together. Not only does this promote bonding, but it also sets a positive example for children. 0 Explore community-based fitness groups or online resources for inspiration and support. Joining a local sports team or fitness class can provide motivation and accountability. 0 Start small and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts. Remember, consistency is key to reaping the benefits of physical activity. Mindful eating for optimal nutrition Navigating the abundance of food choices in a country like Malaysia, known for its diverse and flavourful cuisine, can be both a delight and a challenge. It is important to adopt a balanced approach to eating, focus on whole and minimally processed foods over their highly processed counterparts. While traditional food, such as grains and dairy products, have been staples in the Malaysian diet for generations, the advent of ultraprocessed food has introduced new challenges to maintaining a healthy diet. To make informed dietary choices, consider the following guidelines: 0 Prioritise whole food, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats, during grocery shopping. These food are rich in essential nutrients and fibre, which promote satiety and overall health. 0 Plan and prepare meals in advance to ensure you have nutritious options readily available, especially on busy days. 0 Diversify your diet by incorporating a variety of fruits and vegetables of different colours, as each colour represents different nutrients and antioxidants. 0 Choose healthier snacking options, such as fresh fruit, raw vegetables, nuts, seeds and yoghurt, over highly processed snacks high in sugar, salt and unhealthy fats. 0 Opt for whole grain alternatives, such as brown rice, whole wheat bread and whole grain pasta, which are higher in fibre and nutrients compared to their refined counterparts. 0 Use healthier cooking methods, such as baking, grilling, steaming or sauteing, that require minimal added fat and oil. 0 Read food labels carefully and choose products with lower sodium, sugar and unhealthy fats, as well as fewer additives and preservatives. By adhering to the principles of mindful eating and making conscious food choices, you can nourish your body with the nutrients it needs to thrive while minimising the consumption of empty calories and processed foods. Integrating RED: A Holistic Approach to Wellbeing In essence, RED are interconnected pillars of health that work synergistically to promote holistic wellbeing. As you embark on your journey towards a healthier lifestyle in 2024 and beyond, remember that each component plays a vital role in optimising your overall health and quality of life. By prioritising quality sleep, regular physical activity and balanced nutrition, you can reduce the risk of chronic diseases, enhance your mood and energy levels and improve your overall sense of wellbeing. In conclusion, let the dawn of the new year serve as a catalyst for positive change and self-care. Embrace the transformative power of RED and commit to nurturing your physical, mental and emotional health. By embracing a holistic approach to wellbeing, you can embark on a journey towards a healthier, happier and more vibrant life. This article is contributed by IMU experts Dr Chow Suet Yin, Family Medicine Specialist and Dr Serene Tung, Programme Director of the Nutrition and Dietetics Division.
TUESDAY | FEB 13, 2024 Editorial T: 03-7784 6688 F: 03-7785 2624/5 E: [email protected] Advertising T: 03-7784 8888 F: 03-7784 4424 SCAN ME E: [email protected] Foreign holdings of Malaysian bonds dip in January PETALING JAYA: Foreign holdings of Malaysian bonds saw a decline in January 2024, shrinking to RM265.3 billion from RM270.4 billion in December 2023, underscoring shifting sentiments in the bond market. MIDF Research attributed the decline to the depreciating ringgit and net inflows of foreign funds into the equity market. “Foreign holdings of govvies (government bonds) made up 21.8% or RM252.4b of the total outstanding government bonds in Jan-24, declining from 22.5% in the previous month and well under the pre-pandemic level (2019 average: 23.1%). Overall, the decline in foreign holdings of Malaysian bonds is in line with our expectations given the depreciating ringgit on the back of net inflows of foreign funds into the equity market in Jan-24,” it said. MIDF Research stated that Malaysian Government Bonds (MGS) tend to follow the same pattern as US Treasury Bonds. In January 2024, the 10-year MGS yield rose slightly to 3.79%, while the 3-year yield dropped to 3.39%. Throughout the month, the 10-year yield stayed fairly steady, fluctuating between 3.73% and 3.87%. █ BY HAYATUN RAZAK [email protected] Macro Kiosk set to expand presence to robotics, EV sectors PETALING JAYA: Macro Kiosk Bhd is keen to begin its foray into the robotics and electrical vehicle (EV) industries, as well as expand its business into Cambodia and Laos, within two years. “The group is bullish this year and we are continuing our regional expansion in terms of opening up new offices. We are also making inroads into new industries – robotics (and EV),” disclosed co-founder and CEO Datuk Kenny Goh (pic) in an exclusive interview with SunBiz. Currently, the enterprise solutions platform operates 12 branches worldwide and its anticipated entry into robotics and EV, will make it a total of 26 industries it will be involved in. Currently, it services more than 5,000 customers from 37 countries. Its Bold enterprise solutions platform p r o v i d e s o m n i c h a n n e l c o m m u n i c a t i o n , multichannel payment, analytical engagement and actionable marketing oEnterprise solutions platform hopes to make inroads into new industries, enter Cambodia and Laos within two years █ BY GLORIA HARRY BEATTY [email protected] to drive customers’ business communication efficiency, payment requirements, customer engagements and marketing interactions towards market demands. Goh said the group will first expand into Cambodia within this year, before setting up an office in Laos, which is likely to be finalised by year-end or in 2025. He explained that Cambodia is an up-and-coming market, and while it does not have an office there yet, its services are being used by some clients who are based there. Since its objective is to take Asean as one marketplace, it needs to be present in Cambodia and Laos to complete its Asean circuit, Goh said. In addition, he foresees an increase in clients and demand in both countries. “A business like ours cannot be locked into one geographic area. We are a platform business, whereby we help businesses or enterprises go digital, hence there are no borders for us per se, which is why we aspire to take Asia or Asean as one marketplace,” he added. Moving forward, Goh said the group is eyeing the African market, albeit there are no immediate plans to do so as it is still focused on operating within its existing markets. “We are looking at the African continent because the (digital) adoption is there. There’s a lot of new startups and all the new companies also want to do business with Asia and vice versa. “There is diversity there and the infrastructure is still up and coming. Moreover, they share some similarities with Asia … We have the expertise, the knowledge and we believe that we can replicate what we have in Asia for the African market, if we choose to embark on a next frontier,” Goh said, adding that Johannesburg would be a viable first option. In addition, the group is interested in venturing into the robotics space, through serving its customers in the industry. “We are still evaluating on how to bring robotics into it, on how our Bold solutions can play a role in the robotics industry. We are making inroads into the industry,” said Goh. “EV is also another industry that we are looking into, we are not looking into manufacturing EV cars or batteries, but rather (to provide solutions and services ) to clients in the industry, one such example is the charging station. “These are the few industries that we see that there’s a demand for our solutions,“ said Goh. In terms of contribution, Malaysia delivers the bulk of its revenue stream at 60% followed by the Philippines, Thailand, Indonesia and the rest of the other countries its serves. Extra revenue from new SST rate to benefit more people: Analysts KUALA LUMPUR: The additional revenue from the increase in sales and service tax (SST) to 8% from 6% effective March 1 can benefit the rakyat in the form of cash aid, urban infrastructure and healthcare amid the ageing population in the country. The new rate excludes categories such as food and beverage, telecommunication, parking and logistics sectors. To Bank Muamalat Malaysia Bhd chief economist Dr Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid, the move is a step in the right direction as this will bring in more revenue and effectively reduce Malaysia’s budget gap. “It will complement the government’s other measures such as subsidies rationalisation and pension reforms, which ultimately reduce the fiscal deficits,” he said. The measure is also seen as the government’s efforts to take charge of its finances so that it will be more resilient and to ensure that the deficits and debt level will be in a lower trajectory as prescribed in the Public Finance and Fiscal Responsibility Act. This, in turn, will improve the government’s credibility and could boost investors’ confidence, he added. It will also expand the scope of taxable services to include brokerage, underwriting and karaoke, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said when presenting Budget 2024 in the Dewan Rakyat. Higher revenue means the government will have the financial means to prescribe more spending. Therefore, PwC Malaysia indirect tax leader Raja Kumaran suggested giving back to the healthcare sector to prepare for an ageing population. He said more investment should be set aside for making urban infrastructure more friendly, accessible and services ‘ageready’ to accommodate the segments. Raja said that developing a comprehensive education approach to support health literacy among the ageing population is also crucial as it has been reported that Malaysia’s ageing population is growing at a faster rate compared to 30 years ago. The Department of Statistics Malaysia (DoSM) has predicted that Malaysia will attain ageing nation status earlier than predicted amid a decline in the ratio of the nation’s crude birth rate and crude death rate. This has impacted the structure of Malaysia’s population, chief statistician Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Uzir Mahidin said. He said that based on the nation’s crude birth rate and crude death rate, there was an average of 14.4 live births and 5.1 deaths per 1,000 population in 2020, with a ratio of 2.8 births for every death. Ten years ago, he said, there was an average of 17.2 live births and 4.6 deaths per 1,000 population, with a ratio of 3.7 births for each death. DoSM has said Malaysia is expected to be an ageing nation by 2030 when 15.3% of the population is aged 60 years and above. – Bernama “The movement of the 10-year MGS yield largely tracked the 10-year UST yield movement but was less volatile. Additionally, Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) also maintained the OPR at the 3.00% rate, keeping the OPRFFR (overnight policy rate framework and reference rate) differential status quo,” it said. Trading activity increased to RM80.7 billion from RM55.1 billion in December 2023 as the top 10 traded government bonds made up 48.6% of the total traded government bonds (Nov-23: 50.6%). “The relatively muted secondary market activity also reflected the larger net new issuance of govvies in Jan-24,” it said. UOB Global Economics & Markets Research said persisting foreign selling of Malaysian bonds in January marked the largest net selling of bonds in 15 months. “The market volatility since the start of 2024 continues with the recent strength in US economic data and affirmation from US Federal Reserve chair Jerome Powell that the Fed is not ready to begin rate cuts until policymakers are sure that inflation is headed towards the Fed’s 2% target. “This has made a rate cut at the March 19/20 FOMC meeting unlikely leading to higher 10- year UST yields at 4.15% (vs 3.88% at end December 2023) and the dollar index (DXY) rising to 104.13 (vs. 101.38 at end-December 2023),” it said. UOB expects the Federal Reserve to first cut interest rates in June, followed by two more cuts later in the year, totalling a reduction of 0.75 basis points. Separately, MARC Ratings said rate cut pushback has led to bond sell-off. It stated that the MGS market reacted to the rise in US Treasury yields following investors’ reassessment of the path for the Fed’s interest rate policy amid positive US economic data. It said that a prominent increase in yields was noted for longer-term Malaysian government bonds. “Notwithstanding the elevated global interest rate environment, the local bond yields are expected to remain steady amid stable domestic inflation and expectations of BNM unchanged policy rate,” it said. It was also observed that the local corporate bond market rallied in January 2024, with yields of the high-rated category dropping, particularly at the longer end of the curve. “The month’s rally in the local corporate bond market suggests positive investor sentiment amid expectations of a firmer domestic economic environment. Consequently, the yield spread between the high-rated corporate bonds and MGS narrowed for the month,” MARC Ratings said.
BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE TUESDAY | FEB 13, 2024 14 READ OUR HERE /thesun Malaysian Paper SMEs as a key focus in Malaysia IN MALAYSIA, SMEs constitute the backbone of the economy, making up a significant portion while contributing to job creation, economic growth and innovation. Amid an uncertain business landscape, it is crucial for SMEs in Malaysia to take a proactive approach towards expanding their operations through cross-border trade, which in turn leads to additional revenue channels. Cross-border trade also offers a plethora of opportunities for SMEs, including reaching untapped customer base and capitalising on economies of scale. These opportunities serve as essential safeguards against the challenges posed by the current economic conditions. In Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s Budget 2024 speech, he highlighted the government’s unwavering commitment to this critical sector, including the adoption of digital technology. In line with this, FedEx recognises the pivotal role of SMEs within the country’s economic landscape and is dedicated to facilitating their journey towards growth and enduring success. This becomes even more evident as SMEs embrace digital innovation and emerging trends to maintain agility and resilience, particularly within the dynamic e-commerce landscape. Here is how FedEx empowers Malaysian SMEs with its presence, connectivity and digital solutions that strengthen their logistics strategies. Over the past three decades, FedEx Malaysia stands as a testament to numerous remarkable milestones. These include the strategic positioning of our network capabilities within our key facilities. Notably, FedEx established a logistics facility in Johor – a strategic gateway to Singapore – that significantly enhances connectivity for the southern Malaysian region on the global stage. Similarly, the FedEx Batu Kawan facility in Penang enhances connectivity for the northern region of Malaysia. These strategically positioned facilities play a pivotal role in ensuring efficient and timely transport, providing businesses within Malaysia with access to swift and dependable delivery services, both domestically and internationally. Bolstered by FedEx’s active support for the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, the company’s global network presented promising opportunities for exponential growth among SMEs. As a longstanding advocate of free global trade, FedEx is positioned to support SMEs in globalising their businesses by leveraging the benefits of this regional collaboration. With the Asia-Pacific region contributing a substantial 34% share of the global air cargo market, FedEx remains attuned to the evolving demands within the region, including Malaysia. This understanding enables us to optimise our global network and provide tailored solutions that enable SMEs to explore new markets, fostering increased import and export opportunities that ultimately contribute to their growth. In recent years, FedEx Malaysia has focused on supporting SMEs as they expand their global reach. Amy Blair, who leads Batik Boutique, a Malaysian social enterprise specialising in crafting and marketing handmade batik products, exemplifies this trend. Batik Boutique’s journey, marked by a robust local presence and international acclaim, is propelling the global export of their unique batik creations. Conversely, Yusfariq Iqmal Yuslan, the founder of The Jasmine Group, who embarked on his journey in the hijab business. Notably, he pioneered Hijab Magnetic, or the PINLESS hijab, which has achieved extensive market presence in Malaysia and Indonesia, and now to various global markets, supported by FedEx international deliveries and solutions. It is evident that SMEs can potentially reap substantial advantages from FedEx logistics solutions, such as FedEx International Connect Plus, which has the ability to strike an ideal balance between speed and affordability, in ensuring costeffective deliveries without compromising on efficiency. In addition, FedEx International Economy caters to day-definite deliveries to over 170 global markets, making sure that customers’ packages reach their destinations smoothly and without unnecessary hassles. Navigating the boundaries of workplace monitoring E M P L O Y E E - M O N I T O R I N G practices have surged in recent years due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Driven by the need to pursue greater efficiency and security, employers are turning to different surveillance methods to track employee activities, but is this legal? The legal tightrope of workplace monitoring While the law generally allows for such monitoring, there are circumstances where employees may have a reasonable expectation of privacy within the workplace. In Malaysia, the Personal Data Protection Act of 2010 (PDPA) guides data handling for commercial transactions but without specific directives on workplace privacy. Section 6(3) of the PDPA highlights three conditions for processing personal data: 0 There must be a valid reason directly linked to the employer’s activities. 0 Processing the data should be necessary for that reason. 0 The data collected should be appropriate and not excessive for that purpose. Thus, recording phone conversations, accessing emails and text messages, or using CCTV for monitoring is allowed so long as it meets these criteria. But where such monitoring inadvertently captures sensitive information such as health status, political beliefs or alleged offences, handling such data must meet certain PDPA criteria, including obtaining explicit consent from the employee, if the circumstances are necessary, or if the employee has deliberately made the information public. Where is the line? In the absence of legislation on workplace privacy, navigating employer monitoring can be complex – to what extent can employers monitor private conversations on companyprovided devices? Does content posted on personal social media accounts fall under the purview of employer scrutiny? Can your online presence get you fired? While employers typically do not control employees’ activities outside work, there are exceptions when personal conduct intersects with professional representation. It is now common for people to mention where they work on their social media profiles, and just stating this does not mean everything you share is tied to your workplace. However, this link to your employer can make personal actions connect back to your job, given how easily such information is accessible online. If you post something controversial on your personal account that inadvertently drags your employer into a social media conflict, your employer may dismiss you if the misconduct is “severe” i.e., when your actions, after investigation, have been found to seriously damage the trust and good faith between you and the company. The upshot The comments above underscore how employers may access aspects of their employees’ personal lives, and without clear-cut boundaries, employees must be mindful of their words and actions as accountability starts at the source. However, if the individual believes they have been unfairly dismissed, they should seek legal counsel to understand the proper procedure and timeline for seeking reinstatement and compensation. This article is contributed by Cheam Yean Quen of Christopher & Lee Ong (www.christopherleeong.com). Luno brings Ethereum staking to M’sia PETALING JAYA: Luno, Malaysia’s leading regulated digital asset exchange, has launched Ethereum (ETH) staking, a way for customers to earn weekly ETH rewards for helping to ensure the integrity of the network. Luno country manager for Malaysia Scarlett Chai said, “At Luno, we’re on a mission to improve our product continuously and we’re thrilled to be the first regulated exchange to bring staking to our Malaysian customers. Luno’s staking feature will launch in Malaysia initially with support for Ethereum. “Customers simply open a staking wallet and are able to earn up to 4% per year in ETH by holding (hodl in crypto speak) ETH. The reward rate can fluctuate depending on the demand of the network as well as the number of active validators. Rewards will be rewarded weekly, so you can automatically grow your stake and compound your rewards.” By staking, the rewards in crypto will grow customers’ crypto holdings. While they are staked, customers cannot sell or send their coins, but they can “unstake” at any time and remove their coins from their staking wallets. There is a minimum deposit of 0.00001 ETH or RM1. Malaysia is Luno’s second country after South Africa to launch staking for its customers. Staking is a way of generating rewards on your crypto by helping to verify cryptocurrency transactions. You can stake cryptocurrency in projects that use a proof of stake consensus mechanism to process transactions, such as Ethereum. The proof of stake consensus mechanism requires people to actively put their cryptocurrency to work in helping to secure the cryptocurrency network. To be able to verify transactions and get rewards, you have to have put up a certain amount of cryptocurrency before you can take part. This effectively acts as a deposit to ensure you are validating the right transactions. If you do it right, you get a reward. If you validate flawed or fraudulent data, you may lose some of your stake as a penalty. However, Luno works hard to mitigate this risk by teaming up with trusted validator providers with industry-leading monitoring, failsafes, and protection in place. Luno will offer an annual reward percentage of up to 4% per annum on staked Ethereum, though this will vary depending on network conditions. Rewards are given every week. There is a staking service fee that is deducted from the reward customers receive. Before investing in any cryptocurrency, Luno recommends that customers should always do their own research and exercise good judgement, Chai said. SMEs are presented with vast opportunities to tap into the ecommerce space, where online businesses continuously evolve to accommodate ever-shifting customer preferences, and incorporating aspects like personalisation, shoppertainment and streamlined payment methods. This evolution is facilitated by FedEx through digital solutions such as the FedEx Compatible software solutions, which enable business owners access to shipping and other services directly from the software they need. Alongside this, the FedEx Ship Manager online shipping tool offers businesses and individuals a comprehensive and efficient solution to manage their shipments online. Since 1993, FedEx Malaysia has solidified its reputation as a reliable logistics service provider across diverse sectors, encompassing overseas trade, SMEs and ecommerce delivery. As the company commemorates its 30th anniversary, FedEx’s unwavering commitment to bolstering Malaysian SMEs and creating more possibilities for local businesses remains firm. As the market continues its upwards trajectory, the company will continue its focus to establish a sustainable supply chain across all operations, which include reducing emission and waste, replacing older technologies and vehicles with more efficient ones, and revolutionising the company’s operations with newer technologies. A recent addition to the company’s suite of services is the FedEx Sustainability Insights, an innovative, global emissions reporting tool which empowers FedEx customers to gauge CO2 emissions, enabling them control over their carbon footprint. Through these endeavours, FedEx is committed to achieving global carbon neutrality in its operations by 2040. This article is contributed by Tien-Long Woon (pic), managing director of FedEx Express Malaysia. LEGALLY SPEAKING
BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE TUESDAY | FEB 13, 2024 15 A peek at what’s in store for open source in 2024 computing. Open source solutions can also enable these businesses to tailor their infrastructure to align with their needs, achieving higher levels of customisation and control at scale. Pace of innovation continues to be ramped up by AI I believe AI will continue to be a priority for enterprises in 2024 as it changes nearly every industry and impacts society in ways we are just beginning to understand. While this will spark innovation in new tools beyond foundation models, it is open source that can support the surge in gen AI-powered applications, enabling business leaders to address the pace and scale of change with confidence. 2023 saw the largest increase in first-time open source contributors on GitHub2, with developer communities in AsiaPacific driving considerable growth. For example, economic hubs like India are leading the region with more than 13.2 million developers, seeing a year-on-year growth of more than 30%. Just halfway through the year, there were already more than twice as many generative AI projects compared to 2022. But as we look to AI to solve our greatest challenges and reduce workplace inefficiencies, organisations need to ensure that AI is inclusive in access, skills, and knowledge. Business leaders need to model by example and steer the organisation towards future-ready ways of working in order to adapt and thrive. Security continues to be a priority ChatGPT brought gen AI to the forefront of mainstream consciousness, changing the way people think about AI, and using it to improve business workflows and resource efficiency amid economic uncertainty. But how you use these technologies is of concern too. According to the Red Hat 2023 Global Tech O u t l o o k report, IT leaders have e x p r e s s e d t h a t Agrotech Farming to apply cost-effective organic farming in Malaysia KUALA LUMPUR: Agrotech Farming and Trading (M) Sdn Bhd (Agrotech Farming) is keen to bring and implement an innovative, costeffective organic farming in Malaysia through a joint-venture agreement (JVA) with one of the biggest agricultural cooperatives in India. Its adviser SR Naga said the company, which was established in 2022, is in the process of acquiring land located mainly in Selangor and Perak for the project. The project will kick off with crops such as tomato, okra, green chilli, sweet potatoes, honey dew, sweet pumpkin, tapioca, rock melon and other vegetables that are in demand. SR Naga said indigenous technologies such as vermicomposting and anaerobic composting to nurture the plants and soil was proven to aid crops to produce better yields in India and this would be able to help improve the country’s food security if it is implemented here. “The main concept is to do it 100% organic, and as cost is a factor, we had discussions with our partner in India and we witnessed one of the techniques used in their farms is able to reduce the cost of the organic produce. We are looking forward to practise the same concept in Malaysia which will be affordable for local consumers,” he told Bernama in an interview recently. The JVA was inked in India on Jan 28 between SR Naga and Shivaji Dole, chairman/founder of Venkateshwara Co-operative Power & Agro Processing Ltd, which was witnessed by two federal and two state ministers of India, and a crowd of some 16,000 people. Venkateshwara Co-operative, which is based in Maharashtra, India consists of more than 75,000 members and about 20,000 farmers who are engaged in different kinds of agro and agroallied activities. It operates in the major states in India. SR Naga said Agrotech Farming also held a meeting with representatives from the Ministry of Economy and the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security last Friday to discuss this matter. “Basically they support us, they like this entire idea and model of the project we are getting into, so what they want right now is to proceed with the project. Of course, here again we are looking at two areas, first to have our own land for the plantation and to perform a test run, and at the same time, work with the local farmers. “They have government-linked companies ... of course, we are also in negotiations with them. They’re prepared to help and work together with us. So we have to do it accurately. We need to have an understanding, we cannot afford to fail in this project,” he said. If the project is successful, SR Naga said, it is expected to provide a lot of job opportunities, including for the students and retired military personnel. “We will equip them with training, and we’ll join hands with some renowned institutes which will certify them once they are qualified and we will also allocate certain space in our land to train them to be agropreneurs,” he said. Besides introducing eco-friendly fertilisers and pesticides using the technology, the JV allows the company to import crops which are currently in demand in Malaysia directly from India, for example, onion and other food necessities from farms in India under the incorporated company. “We are ready to work and support local wholesale importers for a costeffective pricing, directly dealing with our farms (in India). This way, it will be (more) affordable for our consumers. “With export approval (granted) in India specially for our company to import (produce) at lower cost and guaranteed quantity, this can help reduce the burden and help the country to get sufficient supplies for the local people,” SR Naga said. – Bernama Johor investment centre to be completed this year JOHOR BARU: The Invest Malaysia Facilitation Centre (IMFC) in Johor is expected to be completed this year and can attract more new investors into the state. Johor Mentri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi said the one-stop facility, a result of cooperation between the state government and the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry will be a game changer and catalyst for Johor’s economic development. “As discussed in last week’s meeting with Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz, Johor will set up an investment facilitation centre. “All federal and state agencies involved with investments will have a dedicated centre, the first in Johor. Before this (centre) was established, the Kuala Lumpur IMFC existed, but there was no tie-up with state agencies. “This special tie-up is one of its kind, and we target it (the Johor IMFC) to be ready this year to facilitate investors into the state as announced during the creation of the Johor Singapore Special Economic Zone (JSSEZ),“ he said. In January, Singapore and Malaysia signed the JS-SEZ memorandum of understanding, which outlined several initiatives towards the creation of the economic zone. Meanwhile, Onn Hafiz said the Johor Fast Lane concept aimed at reducing bureaucratic red tape in business dealings is also a factor in attracting investors into the state. – Bernama IT’S THE time of the year when we wish we had a crystal ball to look into how the future will unfold in 2024. The world was captivated by discussions about artificial intelligence (AI), ChatGPT, and the myriad of technological advances in 2023. These should not be seen as challenges but opportunities to unlock the full spectrum of possibilities that emerging technologies can bring. What’s in it for open source in 2024 and how can enterprises prepare for what’s next? I see three key trends that can have a significant impact on the Apac region this year: Looking beyond the clouds In the past, organisations have found it challenging to extract value from unstructured data. Advances in data analytics and most recently, generative AI’s (gen AI) ability to ingest and analyse unstructured data, have enabled businesses to use more of their data. This has also consequently led to increased data demands, where storing and processing all this data in the cloud may no longer be the most efficient option. Businesses can gain an “edge” by integrating edge computing with their current cloud strategy, managing budgets and workloads more efficiently. Edge computing will continue to advance in Asia Pacific and is predicted to grow from US$43.7 billion (RM208 billion) in 2023 to US$81 billion by 2027. In the new year, we will most likely see enterprises continue to find ways to optimise cost and operational efficiency, for example, in the form of serverless security remains a top funding priority. As data becomes more and more accessible in today’s information age, privacy and security rise in significance. Similar to the open source community, we can expect to see increased scrutiny of software and components used. For example, in the form of more robust analysis tools and automated security testing to identify any vulnerabilities early in the development process. This paradigm shift could potentially affect the way developers work, placing greater emphasis on making security a core consideration in certain design decisions. I expect the continued focus on security will also change how organisations manage their data. To derive the most effective insights from their data, organisations must ensure their data is accurate and timely. We will see more organisations place greater attention on data provenance, where they have an overview of the origin, integrity, and authenticity of their data. This article is contributed by Tammy Tan, country manager, Red Hat Malaysia.
BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE TUESDAY | FEB 13, 2024 16 /theSunMedia FOLLOW ON YOUTUBE Malaysian Paper Thailand to create firm to tackle household debt BANGKOK: Thailand will establish an asset management firm in the first quarter of this year to help resolve its stubborn problem of high household debt worth 16.2 trillion baht (RM2.2 trillion), the prime minister said yesterday. Household debt management had many challenges as some creditors refused to enter the process, Srettha Thavisin told a press briefing on recently announced measures to tackle debt both in and outside the financial system. Thailand has one of the region’s highest ratios of household debt at 16.2 trillion baht or 90.9% of gross domestic product, as at the end of September last year. Use of loan sharks is rife among lower-income families unable to get bank loans, with many people trapped by debt with high interest rates. The asset management firm would be set up by the Government Savings Bank and would mainly tackle persistent debts, Srettha said. The government said the new company would offer more relaxed rules in managing debt but did not disclose how much debt it would buy or how many people it would help. While Srettha has said the government aims to resolve debt in the entire system, the results of the recent measures have not been fast. “The road ahead is still very challenging,” Srettha said, adding incomplete debtor registrations were also a factor. Since December, the government has only helped about 12,000 people with a combined informal debt of 670 million baht, out of more than 140,000 people registered. The government has estimated there is about 50 billion baht of informal debt. During the same period, the government said it had tackled about 259 billion baht of debt in the financial system. Srettha has cited the debt problem as a major impediment to strengthening Southeast Asia’s second-biggest economy, which his government is seeking to revive with big stimulus. He reiterated that his government would move ahead with a scheme to boost consumption. The scheme would transfer 10,000 baht each to 50 million Thais to spend, but has been hounded by concerns over how it will be funded. – Reuters Daihatsu resumes domestic production TOKYO: Japanese car maker Daihatsu yesterday resumed part of its domestic production, more than a month after suspending all factory operations over a safety testing scandal. The Toyota-owned firm’s factory in Kyoto resumed manufacturing of the Probox van and Mazda-branded Familia van, a Daihatsu spokesman told AFP. Daihatsu will resume production of 10 other models on Feb 26, after the Transport Ministry confirmed they met safety regulations, it said last week. Daihatsu said in December it had been manipulating safety tests since at least 1989, affecting 64 models, including some sold under the Toyota brand, which are also being suspended. In the same month, the company suspended all domestic production. Last April, the company said it had been falsifying crash test results for four of its models, involving a total of 88,000 vehicles made in Southeast Asia in 2022 and 2023. In May, Daihatsu halted production in Japan of two hybrid vehicle models because of similar “irregularities”, including the Toyota Raize SUV, manufactured on behalf of its parent. – AFP Indonesia says enough rice stock amid sale restrictions JAKARTA: Indonesia’s government yesterday sought to assure consumers that rice stocks were adequate amid increasing sale restrictions in mini markets and supermarkets since the end of last year. “After a coordination meeting with the president, we assure that rice stocks are adequate, and we will speed up availability for modern retails,” National Food Agency (NFA) head Arief Prasetyo Adi told reporters. Availability of 5kg sacks at modern retail outlets have been reportedly scarce since around September last year, leading to a restriction for retail customers. Indonesian Retail Entrepreneurs Association chairman Roy Mandey confirmed the sale restrictions, saying it was to oHarvest disrupted by floods and El Nino, govt to increase imports ensure distribution and avoid reselling. He said the association was seeking to ensure availability. According to a weekly inflation meeting broadcasted online yesterday, the price of rice had increased 1.65% by the middle of this month. Data from the Agriculture Ministry showed that the country had a rice deficit of 1.63 millions tonnes in January and 1.15 millions in February. The NFA said Indonesia plans to import 2.44 million tonnes of rice this year, of which around 445,000 tonnes is a quota carried over from 2023. Presidential Staff Office deputy chief of staff for economy Edy Priyono warned there were planting areas at high risk of flooding in January and February, which could delay harvesting. Indonesia is seeking to import 200,000 metric tonnes of rice from Thailand under a government-to-government arrangement, its state food procurement agency Bulog said yesterday. Bulog said earlier this month that it had contracted 500,000 metric tonnes of rice from Vietnam, Myanmar, and Pakistan. Indonesia has already approved a two million tonne rice import quota this year, a quarter of which is expected to arrive by next month, officials said. Last year, it imported 3.06 million tonnes of the grain, a near-record. Indonesia’s initial forecast for 32 million metric tonnes of rice output in 2024 has been undercut by predictions that rice output in January and February is expected to drop 46% from a year ago to 2.25 million tonnes, officials said. Output was disrupted last year by the dry El Nino weather pattern but production is expected to recover this year. Meteorological agency BMKG forecast El Nino would remain in the first quarter of this year and gradually neutralise by April. Last year, Indonesian President Joko Widodo said his government had secured commitment from India and Thailand to shore up supply for 2024. – Reuters Australia’s top bank CBA lures funds exiting China SYDNEY: Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA) is expected to report a small drop in first-half profit this week, but that has not deterred investors from pouring into its shares and turning it into one of the world’s most expensive banks. The stock of Australia’s largest bank has jumped more than 20% since November, outperforming a 12% rise in the wider market, with the help of investors fleeing China’s battered markets and those switching to equities on expectations of interest rate cuts. As the market’s second-largest stock, it is benefiting from an outsized share of the money pouring into Australian equities from home and abroad, say analysts and investors. As a result, Commonwealth Bank is now trading just off its all-time high, valuing it at 21 times forward earnings per share, or nearly double Wall Street giant JPMorgan’s earnings multiple and more than triple HSBC’s. Its market capitalisation is now roughly double its nearest rival National Australia Bank. For investors fleeing China’s stuttering market amid a prolonged property crisis and looking for safe, liquid places to put their money, Australian banks, and in particular CBA as the largest and most well known, are an easy pick, said Matthew Haupt, a portfolio manager at Wilson Asset Management. “Australian banks have been massive beneficiaries of the pullback from China,” he said. “As people reduce their MSCI Asia exposure, Australian banks are an obvious choice.” However, for most analysts, among whom the average price target for CBA is A$91, or 22% below Friday’s close, the recent rally has long outstripped fundamentals. When it releases results on Feb 14, CBA is expected to report a first-half cash profit of A$4.973 billion, down 3.7% from a year earlier, according to the Visible Alpha consensus cited by UBS. The decline is mostly down to a higher effective tax rate and the sale of its Indonesian banking unit, although interest margins are also shrinking, Barrenjoey equity analyst Jon Mott said in a note earlier this month. “We do not believe such extreme multiples are sustainable given these earnings headwinds. “The result may be a catalyst for a share price correction.” – Reuters A woman walking past a Commonwealth Bank of Australia logo and ATM in Sydney. – REUTERSPIC
BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE TUESDAY | FEB 13, 2024 17 Xiaomi says India’s scrutiny unnerves suppliers oSmartphone maker seeks more import tariff cuts and incentives on components NEW DELHI: China’s Xiaomi has told New Delhi that smartphone component suppliers are wary about setting up operations in India amid heavy scrutiny of Chinese companies by the government, according to a letter and a source with direct knowledge of the matter. Xiaomi, which has the biggest share in India’s smartphone market at 18%, also asks in the letter dated Feb 6 that India consider offering manufacturing incentives and lowering import tariffs for certain smartphone components. The firm assembles smartphones in India with mostly local components and the rest imported from China and elsewhere. The letter is Xiaomi’s response to a query from India’s Information Technology Ministry asking how New Delhi can further develop the component manufacturing sector. India ramped up scrutiny of Chinese businesses after a 2020 border clash between the two countries killed at least 20 Indian soldiers and four from China, disrupting investment plans of big Chinese companies and drawing repeated protests from Beijing. While Chinese companies operating in India are reticent to speak publicly about the scrutiny, Xiaomi’s letter shows that they continue to struggle in India, especially in the smartphone space where many critical components come from Chinese suppliers. In the letter, Xiaomi India president Muralikrishnan B. said India needed to work on “confidence building” measures to encourage component suppliers to setup operations locally. “There are apprehensions among component suppliers regarding establishing operations in India, stemming from the challenges faced by companies in India, particularly from Chinese origin,” Muralikrishnan said, without naming any companies. The letter said the concerns were related to compliance and visa issues that it did not elaborate on, and other factors. It said “the government should address these concerns and work to instil confidence among foreign component suppliers, encouraging them to set up manufacturing facilities in India”. Indian authorities last year accused Chinese smartphone firm Vivo Communication Technology of breaching some visa rules and alleged it siphoned US$13 billion (RM62 billion) in funds from India. India has also frozen more than US$600 million in Xiaomi assets for alleged illegal remittances to foreign entities by passing them off as royalty payments. Both Chinese companies deny any wrongdoing. Other than regulatory scrutiny of IMF chief: Palestinian economy devastated DUBAI: The Israel-Hamas war has devastated the economies of both the embattled Gaza Strip and the occupied West Bank, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) chief said on Sunday, adding that only “durable peace” would improve the outlook. “The Palestinian economy’s dire outlook is worsening as the conflict persists,” managing director Kristalina Georgieva said during a visit to Dubai. “Only a durable peace and political solution will fundamentally change it. “Economically, the impact of the conflict has been devastating.” In the war-ravaged coastal territory, economic activity dropped 80% from October through December compared with a year earlier, the IMF chief said. In the West Bank, the drop was 22%, she added. The larger Palestinian territory has been hit hard by Israel’s withdrawal of 130,000 work permits, the proliferation of checkpoints that has heavily disrupted transportation, the loss of tourism, being cut off from Gaza and Israel’s withholding of tax revenues from the Palestinian Authority. Beyond the Palestinian territories, the Israel-Hamas war has also hit the tourism sectors of neighbouring countries such as Egypt and Lebanon, Georgieva said. Meanwhile, attacks on commercial shipping by Yemen’s Huthi rebels, which the group says are in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza, is leading to “rising freight costs and reduced Red Sea transit volumes (which are) down by nearly 50% this year in our PortWatch data”, Georgieva said. For the Middle East and North Africa region as a whole, GDP growth is expected to improve from last year but will likely fall below earlier IMF projections, partially because of the Israel-Hamas war, the fund reported in its latest forecast last month. The IMF now sees the economies of the region expanding 2.9% this year, a decrease of half a percentage point from its October forecast. – AFP UK employers plan smaller pay rises this year: Survey LONDON: British employers plan smaller pay rises over the coming year than they did three months ago, the first such drop in nearly four years, reflecting less willingness to tolerate higher labour costs, a major survey showed yesterday. The figures are likely to increase the confidence among Bank of England (BoE) policymakers that domestic inflation pressures are easing following recent sharp falls in energy prices, paving the way for lower interest rates later this year. British employers expect to raise basic pay by an average of 4% over the next 12 months, down from an expected rise of 5% through 2023 and in late 2022, according to a survey by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD). This is the first fall since early 2020 when Britain was hit by the Covid-19 pandemic. “This feels like a key moment in the UK labour market,” CIPD economist Jon Boys said. The estimate is based on a poll of 2,006 employers conducted by YouGov from Jan 2 to Jan 22. While pay rises in the private sector and non-profits were in line with the median, public-sector employers expect to raise pay by 3% and to recruit staff at the slowest pace since 2019. Across employers as a whole, the proportion saying that they were funding pay rises through reduced staffing rose to 21% from 12%, while the proportion who were absorbing higher wage costs in profit margins or general overheads dropped to 37% from 50%. This month, the BoE said it was starting to consider cutting interest rates from a near 16-year high of 5.25%, but annual wage growth of over 6% meant a forecast fall in inflation to its 2% target risked proving temporary. – Reuters A Palestinian woman inspecting a house that was hit by an Israeli strike in the Gaza city of Rafah. – REUTERSPIC Luxury group Tod’s to delist from Milan stock exchange ROME: Italy’s luxury shoemaker Tod’s will delist from the Milan stock exchange and go private under a deal with private equity fund L Catterton, backed by LVMH and owner Bernard Arnault. Under the terms of deal agreed with the Della Valle family, Tod’s majority shareholder L Catterton will launch a tender offer to acquire 36% of the company’s share capital at €43 (RM221) per share, for a total of €512.2 million. That represents a premium of 17.6% over Friday’s closing price. Under the deal, the Della Valle family will hold 54% of shares, L Catterton will control 36% and LVMH will retain its current 10% stake, according to a press release issued by Tod’s. “Exiting the stock market ... seems to us to be the most appropriate choice from a strategic point of view,” said Tod’s CEO Diego Della Valle. A first attempt to delist Tod’s failed in October 2022, when a bid launched by the Della Valle family failed to reach the necessary 90% threshold. Owned by the family since its founding in 1978, the Tod’s Group, known for its leather loafers, saw its sales rise by 11.9% to €1.12 billion last year. In addition to Tod’s, the group owns the Hogan and Roger Vivier brands. – AFP the likes of Xiaomi and Vivo, India has since 2020 also banned more than 300 Chinese apps, including ByteDance’s TikTok, and halted planned projects such as those planned by Chinese automakers BYD and Great Wall Motor. The source said many executives of Chinese electronics firms struggle to get visas to enter India, and their companies continue to face slow clearances for investments due to heavy scrutiny by New Delhi. In the letter, Muralikrishnan also made a case for further lowering India’s import tariffs, just after New Delhi’s Jan 31 move to reduce import taxes on battery covers and phone camera lenses. Xiaomi is also asking India to reduce import tariffs on sub-components used in batteries, USB cables and phone covers. Reducing the import tariffs could “increase India’s manufacturing competitiveness ... in terms of costs”, Xiaomi said in the letter, but getting component manufacturers to set up shop in India would require bigger incentives. – Reuters
BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE TUESDAY | FEB 13, 2024 18 @thesundaily FOLLOW ON Malaysian Paper INSTAGRAM Stop ‘shrinkflation’ rip-offs, Biden tells snack firms Google pledges €25m to boost Europe’s AI skills LONDON: Google has pledged €25 million euros ($26.98 million) to help people in Europe learn to use artificial intelligence (AI). Announcing the funding on Monday, the tech giant said it had opened applications for social enterprises and nonprofits that could help reach those most likely to benefit from training. The firm will also run a series of “growth academies” to support companies using AI to scale their companies and has expanded its free online AI training courses to 18 languages. “Research shows that the benefits of AI could exacerbate existing inequalities — especially in terms of economic security and employment,“ said Adrian Brown, executive director of the Centre for Public Impact, which is running the nonprofit scheme alongside Google. “This new program will help people across Europe develop their knowledge, skills and confidence around AI, ensuring that no one is left behind,“ Last month, Google announced it would invest $1 billion into building a data centre just outside of London, as it moves to meet growing demand for internet services in the region. The data centre, located on a 33-acre (13- hectare) site bought by Google in 2020, will be located in the town of Waltham Cross, about 15 miles (24.14 km) north of central London, the Alphabet-owned, opens new tab company said in a statement. Meanwhile, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang said on Monday that every country needs to have its own artificial intelligence infrastructure in order to take advantage of the economic potential while protecting its own culture. “You cannot allow that to be done by other people,“ Huang said at the World Government Summit in Dubai. Huang, whose firm has catapulted to a $1.73 trillion stock market value due to its dominance of the market for high-end AI chips, said his company is ‘democratizing’ access to AI due to swift efficiency gains in AI computing. “The rest of it is really up to you to take initiative, activate your industry, build the infrastructure, as fast as you can.” He said that fears about the dangers of AI are overblown, noting that other new technologies and industries such as cars and aviation have been successfully regulated. “There are some interests to scare people about this new technology, to mystify this technology, to encourage other people to not do anything about that technology and rely on them to do it. And I think that’s a mistake.” – Reuters Huang attending a session of the World Governments Summit in Dubai yesterday. – REUTERSPIC Judge orders Musk to answer to regulators in X probe WASHINGTON: A US judge has ordered Elon Musk to comply with a subpoena to answer questions from regulators about his purchases of Twitter shares last year. The order comes after Musk, who beefed up his stake in Twitter -- now called X -- before buying the company for $44 billion, did not show up for a scheduled deposition in September with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), according to a legal filing. “The court grants the SEC’s application to enforce the subpoena,“ the decision by California judge Laurel Beeler, published on Saturday and seen by AFP, stated. The billionaire boss and the SEC now have a week to agree on a time and place for Musk to give testimony, it added. The SEC investigation pertains to all of Musk’s purchases of Twitter stock in 2022 as well as his statements and filings with market regulators, court documents stated. Musk took part in two half-day depositions in July with the SEC, which told the court it has since received “thousands of documents” that have raised questions they want him to answer. Musk’s objections to the latest deposition included an accusation that the SEC is using its power to “harass” him, the commission said in the filing. “The SEC has already taken Mr. Musk’s testimony multiple times in this misguided investigation -- enough is enough,“ Musk attorney Alex Spiro said in reply to an AFP inquiry. But the SEC had argued that “Musk’s ongoing refusal to comply with the SEC’s administrative subpoena is hindering and delaying the SEC staff’s investigation to determine whether violations of the federal securities laws have occurred,“ according to court documents. Musk’s role at the social network has been marked by numerous controversies and led to various legal actions on the part of investors, former employees and companies that had contracts with Twitter. Shareholders, for example, have filed a lawsuit against Musk, accusing him of disclosing his five percent stake in Twitter too late, after the deadline set by the SEC. – AFP Diamondback and Endeavor finalising US$50b merger NEW YORK: U.S. shale oil rivals Diamondback Energy and Endeavor Energy Resources are close to finalizing a roughly $25 billion cashand-stock deal that would create an oil and gas company valued at more than $50 billion, sources said on Sunday. Diamondback could announce a transaction as soon as Monday that would give its shareholders more than half of the combined companies, the people said, which would become the largest, pure-play oil producer in the Permian shale field. Reuters in December reported that Endeavor Energy Partners was exploring a sale that could value the largest privately held oil and gas producer in the Permian basin at between $25 billion and $30 billion. Endeavor and Diamondback did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The combined company would be the third-largest oil and gas producer in the Permian, the top U.S. oilfield that straddles West Texas and New Mexico. Its oil and gas volumes would be behind Exxon Mobil and Chevron, which have announced recent deals. “This is a layup in terms of the acreage overlap and fit,“ said Dan Pickering, chief investment officer of Pickering Energy WASHINGTON: U.S. President Joe Biden on Sunday called on snack companies to stop shrinkflation, which is when businesses cut product sizes but keep prices the same, describing the practice as “a rip-off.” “Some companies are trying to pull a fast one by shrinking the products little by little and hoping you won’t notice,“ Biden said in a video posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, ahead of Super Bowl LVIII. “Give me a break. The American public is tired of being played for suckers. I’m calling on companies to put a stop to this. Let’s make sure businesses do the right thing now,“ he said. Biden, who offered no solutions or policies to address the practice, did not name any specific companies but several brands were shown in the video. “We appreciate that the President has to deflect attention away from inflation that has lingered during his administration,“ said David Chavern, president and CEO of the Consumer Brands Association, in a statement. Chavern added that the group would like to work with Biden on “real solutions that benefit consumers.” Senator Bob Casey, who released a report in December that showed the impact of smaller product sizes on everything from toilet paper to Oreos, told Reuters in a statement that he was working to how widespread such practices were and to hold companies accountable. The report noted that household paper products were 34.9% more expensive per unit than they were in January 2019, with about 10.3% of the increase due to producers shrinking the sizes of rolls and packages. It said the price of snacks had gone up 26.4% over the same period, with shrinking portions accounting for 9.8% percent of the increase. A spokesperson for Casey said four major industry associations responded to his letters but none “took responsibility for pricegouging or answered his questions regarding pricing and transparency.” Although inflation appears to be slowing, the economy remains Americans’ overall top concern, cited by 22% of poll respondents, as they have struggled with inflation and other aftershocks of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a Reuters/Ipsos poll released last month. Since taking office, Biden has made a pitch for lower supermarket prices, pushed drug makers to lower insulin costs, hotel chains to reduce fees and tried to diversify the meatpacking industry after beef prices skyrocketed in the aftermath of the pandemic. – Reuters oPresident says some companies trying to ‘pull a fast one’
BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE TUESDAY | FEB 13, 2024 19 We are in the state of what I’d call a technological renaissance. The pace at which technology is evolving today is reshaping industries and societies. The convergence of various technologies like AI, blockchain, and IoT is unlocking a lot of possibilities. How has mentorship made a difference in your professional life? Mentorship has been an invaluable compass in my professional journey. Learning from the experiences of seasoned mentors has allowed me to avoid common pitfalls and make informed decisions. The startup journey is inherently filled with highs and lows, and having mentors who have weathered similar storms has been reassuring. Their encouragement and advice have often been the motivational boost needed to overcome obstacles and keep moving forward. These mentorship-derived lessons have shaped not only my professional persona but also my approach to leadership and team management. What do you want to accomplish in the next five years? In the next five years, my vision is to steer our startup towards becoming a household name and pioneering force in the industry. I aim to encourage new and creative ideas that not only meet market demands but also set new standards. It is also my goal to lead our startup in making a meaningful impact on society. By focusing on giving back and nurturing a strong, motivated team, we aspire to create a legacy that goes beyond just business success. Best piece of advice you ever got on your career. One piece of advice that always sticks with me is the encouragement to “Embrace Failure”. In both professional endeavours and personal experiences, we all encounter setbacks and rejections, but what counts is whether we choose to learn from that failure or allow it to define us. So, the next time you find yourself burdened with the stench of failure, decide if you are going to let it rot you away or if you are going to start fresh. I know which one I’d rather do. Most-admired business leader? Why? The late Steve Jobs of Apple Inc. What stands out to me is not only Jobs’ technological innovations but also his ability to inspire. He had a remarkable talent for bringing out the best in his team. This leadership style, centered on people and purpose rather than mere numbers, is something I strive to embody in my role as a startup CEO. After leaving Apple in the mid-1980s, he returned in the late ‘90s when Apple was struggling. Under his leadership, the company experienced a resurgence with products like the iMac, iPod, iPhone, and iPad – revolutionising industries and revitalising Apple’s position. The transformation from near-bankruptcy to becoming one of the most valuable companies globally is widely considered among the greatest comebacks in business history. How do you stay abreast of issues affecting your industry? Listening to tech podcast, YouTube, LinkedIn and Reddit is my way of staying up-to-date with the ever evolving IT industry. If you could have an hour with any thought leader in the world, who would it be and why? Meeting with Tun Mahathir Mohamad, Malaysia’s former prime minister and a prominent political figure with a vast wealth of experience, would present an excellent opportunity to delve into various aspects of his leadership and views on critical issues. His contribution has had an immeasurable impact on our diverse multi-cultural society, transforming how Malaysia to be what it is today. What has been the biggest challenge you have faced? And what did you learn from it? One of the biggest challenges of running a startup is to deal with financial struggles. The constant concern of keeping the business afloat while ensuring the well-being of the team is an ongoing priority. However, despite the challenges, it helped us become more resilient and determined to face whatever comes our way. What man-made innovation confounds you? Why? One human-made innovation that both amazes and puzzles me is weather control technology. The idea of trying to influence or change weather patterns is fascinating, but the complexities and ethical questions about these interventions are hard to grasp. It’s a technological area that captures my interest and caution, especially considering the responsibility that comes with attempting to control nature. However, I am not sure how realistic it is at this moment. Malaysia’s greatest brand. In my opinion, Malaysia’s greatest brand is Petronas. Beyond being a major player in the oil and gas industry, Petronas has successfully become a symbol of national pride and global excellence. Its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and community development sets oSynxsoft Sdn Bhd founder and CEO Mazrie Mahat tells SunBiz that setbacks and rejections are common, but what matters is whether we learn from defeat or let it define us Axiata, XL likely to retain majority stake in Link Net: AmInvestment KUALA LUMPUR: AmInvestment Bank Bhd said Axiata Group Bhd and PT XL Axiata Tbk are unlikely to cease owning a majority stake in PT Link Net Tbk (Link Net) as it would hinder the group’s structural transformation plan for its Indonesian operations. It reckons that Axiata’s exposure to Link Net’s nine-month financial year (FY23) loss of 274 billion rupiah (RM83 million) could improve its profit after taxation and minority interests by about 6% while improving its FY24 net debt to earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation to 1.97 times from 2.03 times currently. This is assuming that Axiata were to sell a 39% equity stake in Link Net to retain a controlling 50% stake, it said in a company update report recently. “Nevertheless, we positively view Axiata’s intention to raise funds by selling a part of its stake in Link Net, which could also mean securing external funding sources and reducing dependency on Axiata to fund the Indonesian operation’s growth,” AmInvestment Bank said. Axiata owns an effective 89% interest in Link Net and is considering raising capital of up to US$500 million (RM2.4 billion) to accelerate its fibre rollout through a combination of both equity and borrowings. “At this juncture, the plan is still at an early stage and no breakdown has been disclosed,” it said. The investment bank said it believes the capital injection will be supportive of the two million new home pass additions, on top of the ongoing one million home pass plan for XL’s customers. The effort is pertinent in accelerating Indonesia’s fixed broadband growth from the republic’s low household penetration rate of 15% currently, behind Bangladesh’s 25%, the Philippines’ 34% and Malaysia’s 37%. “Nevertheless, we are cautious about Axiata’s prospects as the group’s finance cost would still increase due to additional debt financing for Link Net’s fibre rollout, digital banking start-up losses and capex expansion of Edotco Group Sdn Bhd in the Philippines,” said AmInvestment Bank. – Bernama How has your life experience made you the leader you are today? My leadership journey has been shaped by the highs and lows of my experiences. I have learned that growth comes with struggle and achievement and is earned through repeated failures. That is why failures have been powerful teachers to me. As a leader today, I embody these lessons by embracing challenges, fostering a culture of adaptability within my team, and encouraging a mindset that views setbacks as stepping-stones to success. Sure, success feels good, but failure – as long as you don’t let it get the best of you – brings wisdom and growth. The lessons I gained from both success and failure guide my decisions and actions, allowing me to lead with empathy, resilience, and a forward-thinking perspective. What traits do you look for in your talent or how do you decide who is right for a job? Always outnumbered, never outgunned. I always believe in this quote when hiring new people in my company. It generally implies that even if you have fewer resources or people on your team, you still possess the capability, skill, or firepower to compete or succeed against larger or more numerous competitors. Every role I have ever hired for has been heavy on people soft-skills. I always prioritise that. I am particularly drawn to people who are curious and love to learn. How do you think the industry you are in will evolve in the future? The IT industry is constantly evolving, and several trends are likely to shape the more foreseeable future namely Ethical Artificial Intelligence (AI), machine learning and quantum computing. Overall, the IT industry’s future will revolve around innovation, improving efficiency, and addressing societal needs while navigating challenges such as cybersecurity threats and ethical considerations in technology deployment. What advice can you offer those looking to start their career/own business? You need to get out of your comfort zone and keep pushing yourself forward even when you face challenges and roadblocks. With the perseverance mindset, you will reach your goal eventually. When it comes to launching your career or starting your own business, my top advice revolves around the power of networking. When you are in business, networking is your superpower; you should seek connections as if they are treasures. Get out of your comfort zone and attend industry events, join professional groups, and connect with people in your field. The more diverse your network, the richer your opportunities. Also, don’t just start a business for the sake of starting one; find an opportunity and then exploit it. We all know about the industrial revolution, are we in for a technological revolution? Your thoughts. In the startup landscape, this technological revolution is a game-changer. It is not just about adapting to new tools, it is about reimagining entire business models and creating innovative solutions. We are witnessing a shift where startups are leveraging technology not just for efficiency but for true disruption and value creation. SUCCESS: THE INSIGHT STORY it apart. The brand has managed to create a positive impact both domestically and internationally, showcasing Malaysia’s capabilities on a global stage. A must-read for every business owner/manager is .., Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance by Angela Duckworth. This insightful book delves into the significance of resilience and determination in achieving long-term success. Duckworth’s research emphasises the idea that passion and perseverance, more than talent alone, play a pivotal role in reaching one’s goals. For business leaders navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship, Grit serves as an inspirational guide, encouraging a mindset that can weather setbacks and propel individuals and teams toward sustained achievement. How do you expect policies on climate change to impact businesses in the future? As awareness and urgency around environmental issues continue to grow, governments worldwide are likely to implement stricter regulations and incentives to promote sustainability. Companies that proactively adopt eco-friendly practices and incorporate sustainability into their business strategies will likely thrive, not only meeting regulatory requirements but also appealing to a growing environmentally conscious consumer base. What are the top three factors you would attribute your success to? Adaptability, discipline, and resilience. Being adaptable means we can navigate the twists and turns of the business world, adjusting our strategies to meet the challenges and opportunities that come our way. Discipline ensures that we approach our goals with a structured plan, manage our time effectively, and maintain consistency in our work. Resilience is all about bouncing back from setbacks, learning from failures, and turning obstacles into opportunities for growth. Tell us a joke. As a startup CEO, I slept like a baby. I woke up every 2 hours and cried. – Ben Horowitz, cofounder, Opsware - Pix by ADIB RAWI YAHYA/ THESUN Failures teach, fostering wisdom and growth
BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE TUESDAY | FEB 13, 2024 20 CNY GREETINGS: CIMB hosted the CIMB Preferred Chinese New Year Fiesta 2024 Market Outlook at Renaissance Hotel, Kuala Lumpur on Jan 27 in conjunction with welcoming of the Lunar New Year. CIMB Preferred clients were provided with valuable market insights, empowering them to make well-informed decisions in their investment strategies. Present at the event are (from left) CIMB group consumer and digital banking CEO Effendy Shahul Hamid, head of consumer banking Daniel Cheong (third from left) and regional head of affluent product & proposition Rajesh Gupta. AUSPICIOUS TOSS: Malaysia Retail Chain Association hosted its grand Chinese New Year dinner in honour of the auspicious Dragon Year on Jan 24 at One World Hotel, Petaling Jaya. Themed “Enter The Dragon” the event brought together prominent figures, industry leaders, and members of the retail community. Transport Minister Anthony Loke graced the event as guest of honour. ENCHANTING SPRING: Spritzer EcoPark welcomes the Spring season with an extraordinary display of vibrant décor, meticulously crafted from thousands of repurposed Spritzer bottles. This innovative initiative transforms EcoPark into a charming old-school festive town, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the spirit of festivities, sustainability, and cultural richness. The enchanting spectacle will be showcased from Jan 27 to Feb 25, with complimentary admission for all. TOP SHOTS OF THE WEEK
Girls just wanna just wanna have fun ave fun 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 TUESDAY | FEB 13, 2024 Editorial T: 03-7784 6688 F: 03-7785 2624/5 E: [email protected] Advertising T: 03-7784 8888 F: 03-7784 4424 SCAN ME E: [email protected] INSIDE p 23 Romantic escapes in Malaysia Celebrate Galentine’s Day with your besties - P22 Celebrate Galentine’s Day with your besties - P22
LYFE LYFE TUESDAY | FEB 13, 2024 22 promises unforgettable moments and breathtaking scenery for you and your besties to cherish. Beach escape to Port Dickson Celebrate the bond of sisterhood amid the sun, sand and sea on a blissful Galentine’s beach getaway to Port Dickson, a charming coastal town just a short drive from Kuala Lumpur. Sink your toes into the soft, sandy shores of pristine beaches as you bask in the warmth of the tropical sun and immerse yourselves in the rejuvenating embrace of the crystalclear waters of the Malacca Straits. Thrill-seeking sisters can join in exhilarating water sports adventures like jet skiing, banana boating and parasailing, while those craving relaxation can simply lounge by the water’s edge, sharing stories and laughter with refreshing cocktails in hand. As the sun sets, gather at a beachfront resort for poolside cocktails and a delightful seafood dinner, cherishing each moment as the colours of the sky blend into the horizon. A Galentine’s escape to Port Dickson promises the perfect blend of sisterhood, relaxation and adventure for an unforgettable seaside retreat with your besties. Nature retreat at Kuala Selangor Nature Park Gather your girls for a Galentine’s Day adventure filled with fun at Kuala Selangor Nature Park. Leave the city behind and immerse yourselves in nature at this sprawling sanctuary nestled along the banks of the Selangor River. With diverse ecosystems, including mangrove forests, wetlands and mudflats, there is endless exploration and discovery to be had. Take leisurely hikes along the park’s boardwalks and trails, spotting abundant birdlife and wildlife along the way. For a truly magical experience, hop on a sunset river cruise to witness the mesmerising sight of fireflies lighting up the night sky in a breathtaking display of natural beauty. Whether you and your girls are birdwatching, hiking or simply soaking in the serenity of the surroundings, Kuala Selangor Nature Park is the perfect retreat for natureloving friends seeking peace, tranquilly and adventure on Galentine’s Day. /thesuntelegram FOLLOW ON TELEGRAM Malaysian Paper Fun-filled Fun-filled Galentine’s alentine’s retreats retreats The Banjaran Hotsprings is a luxurious spa retreat. – KLOOK oCelebrating sisterhood with your besties █ BYTHASHINE SELVAKUMARAN Shopping spree in Kuala Lumpur is a great way for gal pals to bond. – TIMES OF INDIA Jonker Street in Malacca offers plenty of shopping and dining opportunities. – CK TRAVELS Ladies who love outdoor adventures can visit Broga Hill. – TRIP ADVISOR Port Dickson is a popular weekend getaway. – PINTEREST Kuala Selangor is for nature lovers. – WIKI I T’S Galentine’s Day ladies. The perfect chance to honour and cherish your awesome female friendships. And what better way to mark this special occasion than by planning an epic getaway with your besties? With so many exciting destinations and activities to choose from, you are in for a treat. Whether you are craving relaxation, adventure or some cultural exploration, these six fabulous getaways are sure to bring you all closer together and create memories that will last a lifetime. So gather your girls and get ready for an unforgettable Galentine’s retreat filled with laughter and plenty of sisterhood fun. Luxurious spa retreat at the Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat Celebrate sisterhood with a luxurious Galentine’s spa retreat at the Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat. Leave the city behind and immerse yourself in ultimate relaxation amid the tranquil limestone hills of Ipoh. This exclusive sanctuary, just a few hours’ drive from Kuala Lumpur, offers lavish villas surrounded by lush greenery and natural hot springs. Treat yourself to indulgent spa treatments using organic ingredients, enjoy rejuvenating yoga sessions amid serene surroundings and take leisurely nature walks to reconnect with the beauty of the earth. Afterwards, savour sumptuous organic meals crafted with locally sourced ingredients. The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat provides the perfect backdrop for single ladies celebrating sisterhood on Galentine’s Day. Shopping spree in Kuala Lumpur What better way to celebrate Galentine’s Day than going on a shopping spree in Kuala Lumpur with your girlfriends? This iconic shopping destination is bursting with designer boutiques, high-street brands and trendy cafes, making it the ultimate paradise for passionate shoppers. So call up your besties and spend the day exploring the latest fashion trends, treating yourselves to some much-needed retail therapy and snapping Instagram-worthy pics at every turn. And do not forget about the bustling night markets like the famous China Town version, where you can discover some unique finds together. It is time for a shopping adventure that is sure to be plenty of fun. Cultural exploration in Malacca Step into the past and celebrate Galentine’s Day with your girls by immersing yourselves in the rich history and vibrant culture of Malacca, a Unesco World Heritage Site just a short drive from Selangor. Meander through the charming streets adorned with beautifully preserved colonial architecture and explore iconic landmarks like A Famosa, St Paul’s Hill and the Stadthuys. Treat your taste buds to a variety of mouthwatering local delicacies at the lively Jonker Street night market, where you can indulge in savoury street food and sweet treats alike. Do not miss the chance to browse through the eclectic mix of shops offering unique antiques and handicrafts. With its blend of heritage, cuisine and cultural experiences, Malacca provides the ideal setting for a Galentine’s getaway filled with exploration and sisterly bonding. Adventure retreat at Broga Hill For a Galentine’s adventure with your besties, embrace your inner thrillseeker with a hike up Broga Hill. Nestled in Semenyih, Selangor, this picturesque hill offers awe-inspiring panoramic views, especially stunning at sunrise. Strap on your hiking boots, rally your girlfriends and embark on an exhilarating climb up the steep trails. Along the way, pause to admire the breathtaking vistas and capture memorable photos amid the lush landscape. Reaching the summit together will be a rewarding achievement, strengthening the bonds of sisterhood as you celebrate your shared triumphs. Whether you are a seasoned hiker or new to exploring, a day at Broga Hill
LYFE LYFE TUESDAY | FEB 13, 2024 23 Lovebirds’ haven oRomantic destinations in Malaysia THE enchanting allure of Malaysia, where diverse landscapes and a rich cultural tapestry set the stage for unforgettable romantic escapades. From secluded beaches to bustling cities, Malaysia invites couples to embark on a journey of discovery and create timeless memories together. Opting for a domestic getaway not only adds to the romance but also ensures a cost-effective yet deeply meaningful experience. Here are some handpicked recommendations for your perfect romantic rendezvous. Tioman Island Nestled in the South China Sea, Tioman Island is a haven for couples seeking seclusion and natural beauty. With its crystal-clear waters, lush rainforests and stunning coral reefs, Tioman offers an idyllic setting for romantic beach strolls, snorkelling adventures and sunset cruises. Couples can indulge in luxurious beachfront resorts or opt for charming eco-lodges, ensuring a blissful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Langkawi Renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and serene atmosphere, Langkawi is a paradise for couples seeking relaxation and romance. From pristine beaches to verdant jungles, Langkawi offers a myriad of activities for couples to enjoy together, including island-hopping tours, sunset dinners on the beach and cable car rides to panoramic viewpoints. With luxurious resorts and intimate boutique hotels dotting the island, Langkawi promises an unforgettable escape for lovebirds. Penang Steeped in history and charm, Penang captivates couples with its vibrant culture, delectable cuisine and picturesque scenery. From exploring the colonial streets of George Town to indulging in mouthwatering street food, Penang offers endless opportunities for romantic adventures. Couples can stroll hand in hand along the historic waterfront, visit ancient temples or embark on a culinary journey through bustling night markets. With its eclectic mix of heritage and modernity, Penang is sure to enchant lovebirds seeking a unique and memorable getaway. Redang Island Escape to the pristine shores of Redang Island, where azure waters and white sandy beaches await. Perfect for couples craving tranquillity and natural beauty, Redang offers an array of romantic experiences, from snorkelling among vibrant coral reefs to picnicking on secluded beaches. With luxurious resorts offering private villas and attentive service, Redang provides the ideal setting for couples to unwind and reconnect amid stunning surroundings. Malacca Step back in time and immerse yourselves in the rich history and culture of Malacca, a Unesco World Heritage Site brimming with oldworld charm. Couples can explore ancient temples, stroll along quaint streets lined with colonial architecture and savour the flavours of authentic Nyonya cuisine. Whether cruising along the scenic Malacca River or admiring the sunset from atop St Paul’s Hill, Malacca offers a romantic escape steeped in culture and tradition. Kota Kinabalu For couples seeking adventure and exploration, Kota Kinabalu serves as the perfect gateway to Borneo’s wild beauty. From climbing majestic Mount Kinabalu to diving in the vibrant waters of Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, Kota Kinabalu offers Lie on a beach this Valentine’s at Tioman Island. - SUMMERBAYRESORT █ BYYASMIN ZULRAEZ Redang Island is famed for its world class dive spots. - LAGUNAREDANG Just a short drive from Kuala Lumpur makes Malacca very popular among day-trippers. - CKTRAVELS Kuala Lumpur has hotels to suit every budget. - AUDLEYTRAVEL Semporna is the perfect choice for couples who are dive enthusiasts. - KAYAK Miri Nestled on the northern coast of Sarawak, Miri invites couples to explore its lush rainforests, pristine beaches and awe-inspiring caves. From hiking in Lambir Hills National Park to marvelling at the breathtaking landscapes of Niah Caves, Miri offers endless opportunities for adventure and discovery. Couples can also relax on secluded beaches, indulge in fresh seafood, and witness stunning sunsets over the South China Sea, making Miri a hidden gem for romantic getaways. Kuala Lumpur Experience the vibrant energy of Malaysia’s capital city, Kuala Lumpur, where modernity meets tradition in a bustling metropolis. Couples can admire iconic landmarks such as the Petronas Twin Towers, explore vibrant neighbourhoods like Chinatown and Little India and indulge in worldclass dining and shopping experiences. With its luxury hotels, rooftop bars and eclectic nightlife, Kuala Lumpur offers couples a perfect blend of urban sophistication and romantic charm. Semporna For couples with a passion for adventure and marine life, Semporna is a paradise waiting to be explored. Located on the eastern coast of Sabah, Semporna is renowned for its world-class diving sites and stunning coral reefs. Couples can embark on diving or snorkelling expeditions to discover vibrant underwater ecosystems teeming with marine biodiversity. After a day of underwater exploration, couples can unwind in luxury resorts overlooking the azure waters of the Celebes Sea, creating memories of a lifetime. From secluded islands to bustling cities, these shores offer a plethora of romantic getaways for couples seeking unforgettable experiences together. Whether indulging in luxury resorts, exploring vibrant cultures or embarking on thrilling adventures, there are plenty of domestic attractions to ignite the flames of love and create cherished memories that will last a lifetime. adrenaline-pumping activities amid stunning natural landscapes. Couples can also unwind with sunset cocktails overlooking the South China Sea or embark on a romantic dinner cruise beneath the starlit sky, creating memories to last a lifetime. Perhentian Island Escape to the unspoiled beauty of Perhentian Island, where turquoise waters and pristine beaches beckon lovers to unwind in secluded bliss. With its laid-back atmosphere and breathtaking marine life, Perhentian is perfect for couples seeking intimacy and relaxation. Whether snorkelling hand in hand among colourful coral gardens or enjoying a romantic beachfront dinner, Perhentian offers a tranquil retreat away from the cares of the world.
EDUCATION EDUCATION 24 TUESDAY | FEB 13, 2024 Taylor’s University students receive boost in music and dance KUALA LUMPUR: The Bachelor of Performing Arts programme at Taylor’s has been enhanced with newly introduced dance and music specialisations, as Taylor’s University and The Actors Studio (Tutas) form new collaborations with the Young Choral Academy (YCA) and the ASK Dance Company (ADC). These collaborations provide further opportunities for Taylor’s students to hone and master their talents in a field of their choosing, be it dance, music or theatre. YCA director Susanna Saw, who has an extensive and illustrious record not only in the local but also international music scene, is leading the music specialisation. As an established educator, having lectured and directed choirs at local universities, she will expose Taylor’s performing arts students to music productions, where they can gain professional experience in the field. Saw has also served as a judge at numerous international choral festivals and is an active speaker at music education events. ADC founder and artistic director Prof Dr Joseph Gonzales leads the dance specialisation. As a wellestablished educator and artiste of the performing arts scene, both locally and internationally, his choreography in multiple genres of dance, theatre and musical theatre have established him as a leading light in the dance arena. Taylor’s performing arts students will have exposure to the latest in new contemporary dance techniques, elevating the programme further. Among the dance specialisations offered are modules in ballet, contemporary dance, traditional Malay dance, hip hop, jazz and even “silat”, a traditional form of Malay selfdefence. Students in this specialisation will receive education and training on the fundamentals of dance taught by renowned doyens of the dance industry, including Gonzales. During the launch ceremony at the Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre, Taylor’s University vicechancellor and president Prof Barry Winn said: “We are humbled and (From left) Hasham, Saw and (centre) Prof Dr Neethiahnanthan Ari Ragavan, Executive Dean, Faculty of Social Sciences and Leisure Management, Taylor’s University, Winn, Prof Dr Anindita Dasgupta, Head of School, School of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Taylor’s University and Faridah at the launch of the new dance and music specialisations. oPerforming arts remain popular choice among students Optometry course gaining popularity as demand grows comprising medicine, microbiology and neurology, the field of optics such as optical aids, the professional use of optical instruments such as imaging techniques and professional eye care. The field of optometry covers the need to help people with not only physical vision problems but also other related aspects such as surgeries, either by using the standard method or laser treatment. The role of the optometrist may be multifold and includes educating the public on the importance of eye care, an area often neglected compared with other health related matters. Optometry students are required to engage in practical sessions at the many laboratories to gain experience. SHAH ALAM: The four-year Bachelor of Optometry programme at Management and Science University (MSU) remains a good option for those who choose to specialise in a branch of healthcare that trains to detect, diagnose and manage ocular diseases. The bachelor degree is approved by the Malaysian Optical Council (MOC) and upon qualification, the graduate in optometry needs to apply for certification from MOC. Optometrists remain in high demand by employers in the public and private sectors. As the services of optometrists are considered to be equal in importance to those dispensed by medical doctors, optometry is viewed as a prestigious career, and many science students choose to pursue it. Derived from the Greek word “optos”, which means view and “metria” (measures), optometry deals with the eyes and its related structures. Like other career options, anyone interested to practise optometry must possess the proper education qualification and recognised accreditation. The field comprises of four areas of study, covering vision science excited to have partners such as YCA and ADC working together with Tutas in expanding the scope of the performing arts conservatory programme. The introduction of these additional tracks will bring further recognition to the programme.” Tutas co-founder and programme development director Datuk Dr Faridah Merican, said: “This is a dream come true for us to welcome long time friends and collaborators, ADC and YCA, to the Tutas family. I am certain it is exciting news for young people who are looking at pursuing the performing arts, because not only do they get to learn from the best of the best in each field, but they are now able to explore the different genres of performing arts at Tutas.” Its co-founder and programme artistic director Joe Hasham said: “As Malaysia’s only conservatory-style performing arts programme, Tutas has attracted students from all over the world, including Japan, Korea, Indonesia and China as well as exchange students from the Netherlands, Germany and Spain. “The introduction of dance and music specialisations makes it even more attractive as these students can access not only a full-fledged performing arts centre that acts as their campus but each partner’s wealth of expertise, know-how and industry connections. It will truly be a place where they can choose who they want to be.” The new dance and music specialisations will be available for aspiring students in April. For inquiries and more information on the Bachelor of Performing Arts programme, please visit https://bit.ly/BPASpecialisations. Students seeking to take up optometry should have a strong foundation in Science, Mathematics and English as the course covers other areas such as medicine, which will allow them to be awarded with the necessary certificates to practise. With the high demand and potential offered by the optometry field, the internationally recognised MSU is offering the four-year bachelor degree programme through its Faculty of Health and Life Sciences (FHLS) at its Shah Alam campus. Interested students with Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM), matriculation or recognised diplomas are eligible to enroll in the programme. In addition to theory segments, there are practical sessions that allow students to have hands-on experience, and the infrastructure facilities for the practical training are comprehensive. Students also have the advantage of industrial training, offered as part of the programme and valuable experience is gained as a result. In addition, MSU offers the MSU Global Mobility Programme (GMP), Global Leadership Programme (GLP) and the Global Internship Programme (GIP) in collaboration with more than 300 partner universities in forty countries worldwide. Comprehensive global mobility initiatives at MSU enable semesters abroad and leadership development, equipping students with the international edge employers seek. The GMP allows students to study abroad for one semester or two at an MSU partner university, while the GLP paves the way for students to discover new places, make international friends, or engage with international communities. The GIP presents an opportunity for students to work alongside global professionals via placements with industry partners. Apart from the optometry programme, FHLS offers diploma and bachelor programmes in Biomedical Science, Food Service Technology, Bioinformatics, Nursing, Nutrition, Health Science Management, Ophthalmic Dispensing and Forensic Science. For more information regarding the courses offered at MSU, please visit www.msu.edu.my or contact the Engagement and Enrollment Department at 03-5521 6868.
TUESDAY | FEB 13, 2024 | 25 DON’T CHOOSE WHAT YOU WANT TO DO. Bachelor of Performing Arts (Honours) KPT/JPS (N/212/6/0058) (MQA/PA11649) 06/24 CHOOSE WHO YOU WANT TO BE BY SUBJECT 2023 #1 private university in malaysia arts & humanities Taylor’s University Sdn. Bhd. (Co. No.149634-D) No. 1, Jalan Taylor's, 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan
EDUCATION EDUCATION 26 TUESDAY | FEB 13, 2024 Making the difference through the Rotary Education Fund WHILE many m a r g i n a l i s e d communities, including the B-40, put education as a high priority, it remains out of reach for many, due to their environment and poor living conditions with families struggling to make ends meet, resulting in many bright students rarely going on to complete tertiary level education, due to their financial and other constraints. This was not the case for Letchumanan Anbalagan, 27 years, who successfully completed the University of London (external) law degree and the Certificate of Legal Practice (CLP), all with flying colours and was recently accepted for pupillage into a law firm. Coming from a B-40 background, his family had financial constraints and Letchumanan had to share his home with more than ten family members, and regularly spent nights on the floor due to lack of space. Despite his poor living conditions and financial constraints, he was a good student and displayed potential, enough for his then School Counsellor of SMK Bandar Utama, where he was studying, Chen Poh Hong, to recognise his talent, and chose him to be one of the mentees under the Rotary Education Fund in 2012, when he was just 15 years old. This proved to be a life-changing journey and transformed Letchumanan into a bright, confident student, who excelled academically both in his SPM and STPM and was actively involved in clubs and societies, both in his secondary school and at Brickfields Asia College where he studied for his law degree. oUplifting communities through education initiatives █ BYDHARSHINI GANESON Among the awards Letchumanan received were The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award from the Ministry of Youth and Sports Malaysia for outstanding leadership. Today, as a young newly qualified graduate, deciding on which firm he would choose to do his pupillage to eventually become a full-fledged member of the Bar, Letchumanan remains deeply appreciative of the many opportunities and exposure the Rotary Education Fund (REF) gave him, run by the Rotary Club of Bukit Kiara Sunrise (RCBKS). Business manager Jeremy Ng Joo Hwang, 68 years, Letchumanan’s mentor shared how the Rotary Education Fund, which was initiated in 2009, had a four pronged holistic approach, comprised of the Youth Mentorship Programme (YMP), Leadership Training Programme (LTP), Values Education Programme (VEP) and Financial Assistance. Ng shared how each aspect of the programme was designed to expose the student to mentorship training from trained volunteers, who would guide, encourage and review schooling progress, and apart from meeting Letchumanan twice on a monthly basis at his home, he also received RM250 monthly under the REF, to pay for his necessities on a daily basis. “In the case of Letchumanan , the financial assistance was for five years, right up to his STPM and when he began his law studies, he took a PTPTN loan to cover the cost of his studies,” said Ng who stated that it was leadership by example, and the financial assistance given by the REF was to lessen the financial burden so the student need not work to cover his or her expenses. Dr Sanjay Doshi, the current president of RCBKS said it was one of their most successful programmes, as it had given more than 170 students the opportunity of tertiary education, and had enabled RCBKS to make a positive difference to young lives of all races from the lower income group, who display high potential but are currently underperforming, and who show a strong desire to help themselves and RCBKS puts them on the start of a road to a better life. Sanjay said in recognition of its success, other rotary clubs have emulated RCBKS’s REF, and in so doing many other B-40 students have also benefitted from this initiative. Dr Sanjay added that they shared a close relationship with their partner, HELP University, who had assisted them to run many workshops and had provided support over the years, through career workshops for mentees, who had then gone on to complete their tertiary education. From left - Ng, Dr Sanjay and Letchumanan remain close and meet regularly under REF to assist new mentees
PERISYTIHARAN JUALAN DALAM MAHKAMAH TINGGI MALAYA DI PULAU PINANG PERMOHONAN UNTUK PERLAKSANAAN NO: PA-38-918-11/2023 Dalam perkara mengenai Seksyen 256 dan 257 Kanun Tanah Negara, 1965 Dan Dalam perkara mengenai Gadaian Perserahan No: 0799SC2020000390 (bertarikh : 26/12/2019) ke atas semua bahagian tanah yang dipegang di bawah Geran No. 36325, Lot 501 Seksyen 16, Mukim Bandar George Town, Daerah Daerah Timor Laut, Pulau Pinang Dan Dalam perkara mengenai Aturan 83 Kaedah- Kaedah Mahkamah, 2012 ANTARA OCBC Al-Amin Bank Berhad (No. Pendaftaran Perniagaan: 200801017151 (818444-T) ...PLAINTIF DAN Lim Theng Hooi (No. Kad Pengenalan: 580610075389) ...DEFENDAN Menurut Perintah Mahkamah Tinggi Malaya di PULAU PINANG mengenai Perintah Jualan dan Perintah bertarikh 3 Mei 2023 dan 10 Januari 2024, adalah dengan ini diisytiharkan bahawa Timbalan Pendaftar/Penolong Kanan Pendaftar Pusat Operasi e-Lelong di Kuantan AKAN MENJUAL SECARA LELONG AWAM Pada Hari Rabu, 21 Februari 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. 36325 No. Lot : Lot 501 Seksyen 16 Mukim / Daerah / Negeri : Bandar George Town / Daerah Timor Laut / Pulau Pinang Pegangan : Hakmilik Kekal No. Petak/No. Tingkat/ No. Bangunan : Keluasan Tanah : 2950.0000000000 kaki persegi 274.0000000000 meter persegi Pemilik Berdaftar : Lim Theng Hooi Syarat Nyata : FIRST GRADE Sekatan Kepentingan : Tiada Bebanan / Lain-Lain : Kawasan Rizab : Kaveat : Pers 0799B2019010165 LOKASI DAN PERIHAL HARTANAH : Hartanah tersebut adalah 2 tingkat rumah kedai yang beralamat pos di No. 27-A, Lorong Abu Siti, 10400, George Town, Pulau Pinang. HARGA RIZAB : Hartanah tersebut akan dijual atas “seperti sedia ada” tertakluk kepada satu harga rizab sebanyak RM 3,150,000.00 (RINGGIT MALAYSIA: TIGA JUTA SATU RATUS LIMA PULUH RIBU) dan kepada syarat-syarat jualan yang dilampirkan. Pembida yang berminat hendaklah mendepositkan 10% daripada harga rizab dalam bentuk Bank Draft di atas nama OCBC AL-AMIN BANK BERHAD 1 HARI BEKERJA sebelum tarikh lelong awam. Baki harga belian hendaklah dibayar oleh pembida yang berjaya kepada OCBC AL-AMIN BANK BERHAD dalam tempoh seratus dua puluh (120) hari dari tarikh jualan. Untuk butir-butir selanjutnya, sila berhunung 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/244/22 322 Notices IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF EKAYA BERSATU SDN. BHD. (Reg. No. : 200301008619 (611039-U) (Incorporated in Malaysia) (In Members’ Voluntary Liquidation) NOTICE OF RESOLUTION Section 439 2(b) At a General Meeting of the Members of the Company duly convened and held at No. 27- 3, 3rd Floor, Suite 1, Subang Business Centre, Jalan USJ 9/5Q, 47620 Subang Jaya, Selangor on 9th February 2024, the Special Resolutions set out below were duly passed: - 1. That the Company be wound up voluntarily. 2. That PARAMESWARAN RAM A/L SATCHITHANANDAM (MIA38658) of No. 27-3, 3rd Floor, Suite 1, Subang Business Centre, Jalan USJ 9/5Q, 47620 Subang Jaya, Selangor be and is hereby appointed Liquidator for the purpose of such winding up. 3. That the Liquidator be authorized to distribute the assets of the Company to the Shareholders in cash or in kind as he thinks fit in accordance with the interest of the Shareholders. 4. That the books, accounts and documents of the Company and of the Liquidator be destroyed three months after the Company has been dissolved”. Dated this : 9-2-2024 .......................... SIN TAI LIM PENGARAH ALLPRO CONSULTANTS (003197941-A) 27-3, 3rd Floor, Suite 1, Subang Business Centre, Jalan USJ 9/5Q, 47620 Subang Jaya, Selangor E-mail: [email protected] Tel: 03-8081-0698 | 019 755 3698 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF EKAYA BERSATU SDN. BHD. (Reg. No. : 200301008619 (611039-U) (Incorporated in Malaysia) (In Members’ Voluntary Liquidation) NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the creditors of the above-named Company which is being wound up are required on or before 18th March 2024 being the date for that purpose fixed by the undersigned, the Liquidator of the said Company, to send their names and addresses and particulars of their debts or claims and the names and addresses of their solicitors, if any, to the undersigned, and if so required by notice in writing from the said Liquidator, are to come in and prove these said debts or claims at such time and place as shall be specified in such notice, or in default thereof, they will be excluded from the benefit of any distribution made before such debts or claims are proved. .................................... PARAMESWARAN RAM A/L SATCHITHANANDAM Liquidator Dated: 9-2-2024 ALLPRO CONSULTANTS (003197941-A) 27-3, 3rd Floor, Suite 1, Subang Business Centre, Jalan USJ 9/5Q, 47620 Subang Jaya, Selangor E-mail: [email protected] Tel: 03-8081-0698 | 019 755 3698 322 Notices DALAM MAHKAMAH SESYEN DI KUALA LUMPUR DALAM WILAYAH PERSEKUTUAN, MALAYSIA GUAMAN SIVIL NO.: WA-B53-30-12/2023 ANTARA 1. LOOI KAM YONG (NO. K/P: 751011-08-6039) 2. CHIN MEI CHING (NO. K/P: 790618-14-5578) …PLAINTIF-PLAINTIF DAN YAU HER LERK (NO. K/P: 760121-04-5443) …DEFENDAN WRIT SAMAN YANG AMAT ARIF HAKIM BESAR MALAYSIA, ATAS NAMA YANG DI PERTUAN AGONG Kepada: YAU HER LERK (NO. K/P: 760121-04-5443) Block B-13-12A, Perdana View Condo, Jalan PJU 8/1, Damansara Perdana, 47830 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Kami perintahkan kamu bahawa dalam EMPAT BELAS (14) hari selepas penyampaian Writ ini kepada kamu, termasuklah hari penyampaian itu, kamu hendaklah menyebabkan suatu kehadiran dimasukkan untuk diri kamu dalam suatu kausa atas guaman Plaintif-Plaintif yang tersebut di atas dan AMBIL PERHATIAN bahawa dalam keingkaran kamu berbuat demikian, Plaintif-Plaintif boleh meneruskan untuk mendapatkan penghakiman dan pelaksanaan. DISAKSIKAN oleh Penolong Pendaftar Mahkamah Sesyen di Kuala Lumpur pada 14 haribulan Disember 2023 .....................t.t............................ .................t.t.............. Peguamcara Plaintif-Plaintif Penolong Pendaftar Tetuan Rabinder Budiman & Mahkamah Sesyen Associates Kuala Lumpur MEMORANDUM YANG HENDAK DITURUNKAN PADA WRIT Writ ini tidak boleh disampaikan lebih dari enam (6) bulan kalendar selepas tarikh di atas melainkan jika diperbaharui melalui perintah Mahkamah. Defendan boleh hadir bersama dengan mencatatkan kehadiran sama ada sendiri atau melalui peguam di Pejabat Pendaftaran Mahkamah. Seseorang Defendan yang hadir sendiri boleh, jika dikehendakinya, memasukkan kehadirannya melalui pos, dan borang-borang yang tertentu bolehlah didapati dengan menghantar Kiriman Pos berharga RM8.00 berserta sampul surat beralamat sendiri kepada Mahkamah Sesyen di Kuala Lumpur PENGENDORSAN TUNTUTAN Oleh yang demikian, Plaintif-Plaintif menuntut daripada Defendan seperti berikut:- (a) Ganti rugi khas sebanyak RM516,580.00; (b) Ganti rugi am akibat kemungkiran kontrak yang dimasukkan antara Plaintif-Plaintif (klien) dan Defendan (peguamcara); (c) Ganti rugi am akibat kecuaian Defendan yang menyebabkan Plaintif-Plaintif mengalami kerugian; (d) Faedah pada kadar 5% setahun ke atas RM516,580.00 dari tarikh pemfailan Writ Saman sehingga tarikh penyelesaian penuh; dan (e) Relief-relief lanjut atau lain yang dianggap wajar dan sesuai oleh Mahkamah yang Mulia ini. Dan RM.................(atau sekian jumlah sebagaimana yang dibenarkan setelah ditetapkan) untuk kos, dan juga, jika Plaintif-Plaintif memperolehi perintah untuk penyampaian ganti, jumlah wang selanjutnya sebanyak RM.................(atau sekian jumlah sebagaimana yang dibenarkan setelah ditetapkan). Sekiranya amaun yang dituntut dan kos dibayar kepada Plaintif-Plaintif atau peguamcaranya dalam tempoh lapan (8) hari selepas penyampaian Writ ini (termasuklah hari penyampaian), prosiding seterusnya akan ditangguhkan, tetapi jika ternyata daripada pengindorsan pada Writ itu bahawa Plaintif-Plaintif adalah bermastautin di luar wilayah terjadual, sebagaimana yang ditakrifkan dalam Akta Pertukaran Kawalan 1953, atau adalah bertindak mengikut perintah atau bagi pihak seseorang yang bermastautin sedemikian, prosiding akan hanya ditangguhkan jika amaun yang dituntut dan kos dibayar ke dalam Mahkamah dalam masa yang tersebut itu dan notis pembayaran itu diberi kepada Plaintif-Plaintif atau peguamcaranya. PENGENDORSAN TENTANG PEGUAMCARA DAN ALAMAT WRIT SAMAN ini dikeluarkan oleh Tetuan Rabinder Budiman & Associates, Peguambela dan Peguamcara Plaintif-Plaintif yang beralamat penyampaian di Suite 3B-15-5, Level 15, Block 3B, Plaza Sentral, Jalan Stesen Sentral 5, 50470 Kuala Lumpur. [Tel: 03- 227 42075 Fax: 03- 226 07266 Emel: [email protected]] (Ruj Kami: RBA/RS/1196/23/ca) PENGENDORSAN TENTANG PENYAMPAIAN Writ ini telah disampaikan.................oleh.................dengan cara penyampaian kediri kepada Defendan yang saya kenali atau yang telah ditunjukkan kepada saya oleh.................atau yang telah mengaku kepada saya bahawa dia ialah.................di.................pada................. haribulan.................2023. Diindorskan pada.................haribulan.................2023. .................................. Penghantar Saman WRIT SAMAN ini difailkan oleh Tetuan Rabinder Budiman & Associates, Peguambela dan Peguamcara Plaintif-Plaintif yang beralamat penyampaian di Suite 3B-15-5, Level 15, Block 3B, Plaza Sentral, Jalan Stesen Sentral 5, 50470 Kuala Lumpur. [Tel: 03- 227 42075 Fax: 03- 226 07266 Emel: [email protected]] (Ruj Kami: RBA/RS/1196/23/ca) IN THE HIGH COURT OF MALAYA AT SHAH ALAM IN SELANGOR DARUL EHSAN, MALAYSIA (COMMERCIAL DIVISION) COMPANIES WINDING-UP NO.: BA-28NCC-620-11/2023 In the matter of Section 464, 465(1)(e) and 466 of the Companies Act 2016 And In the matter of the Companies (Winding-Up) Rules 1972 And In the matter of SRI MUDA AUTOWORKS SDN. BHD. [Company No.: 429803-M] BETWEEN GURJEET SINGH A/L CHANAN SINGH (NRIC NO.: 650814-08-5061) …PETITIONER AND SRI MUDA AUTOWORKS SDN. BHD. (Company No.: 429803-M) …RESPONDENT ADVERTISEMENT OF PETITION NOTICE is hereby given that a Petition for the Winding-Up of the above named Company by the High Court dated 03rd day of November 2023 presented by GURJEET SINGH A/L CHANAN SINGH, the above said Petitioning Company and that the said Petition is directed to be heard before the Court sitting at the High Court of Malaya at Shah Alam, Selangor Darul Ehsan at 9.00 a.m., on the 05th day of MARCH 2024; and any creditor or contributory of the said Company desiring to support or oppose the making of an order on the said Petition may appear at the time of hearing by himself or his Counsel for that purpose and a copy of the Petition will be furnished to any creditor or contributory of the said Company requiring the same by the undersigned on payment to the regulated charge for the same. The Petitioner’s address is at No. 13 Flora Tropika, 30350 Ipoh, Perak Darul Ridzuan. The Petitioner’s solicitors are Messrs Sodhi Chambers address is at Suite D-2-33A, Block D, Pusat Perniagaan Seksyen 8 (8 Avenue), Jalan Sungai Jernih 8/1, 46050 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan. Signed MESSRS. SODHI CHAMBERS Solicitors for the Petitioner NOTE—Any person who intends to appear on the hearing of the said Petition must serve on or send by post to the above named Solicitors for the Petitioner notice in writing of his intention to do so. The notice must state the name and address of the person, or, if a firm, the name and address of the firm and must be signed by the person or firm, or his or their Solicitors (if any) and must be served, or, if posted, must be sent by post in sufficient time to reach the above named not later than twelve o’ clock noon of the 04th day of March, 2024 (the day before the day appointed for the hearing of the Petition). [SC/AS&GS/1347/08/2023] 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 Item Reg No Make Model Price 1 BQX2294 2022 HONDA WAVE ALPHA 4000 2 VHM6942 2022 YAMAHA Y15ZR 6000 3 VGG5227 2021 YAMAHA Y15ZR 6000 4 VKQ2831 2023 YAMAHA Y15ZR 6000 5 QBF4685 2022 YAMAHA LAGENDA 115Z 4000 6 PQM1455 2022 BENELLI R18i 7000 7 SMG4735 2022 YAMAHA EGO GEAR 4000 8 MDH7636 2020 YAMAHA 135LC 4000 9 DEP6823 2023 PROTON SAGA 1.3 29200 10 JNM3123 2010 HONDA FREED 1.5 E I-VTEC (A) 29000 11 JSJ8680 2017 NISSAN X-TRAIL 2.0L CVT 60000 12 WYK2668 2013 PERODUA MYVI-1.3 EZI 18000 13 VGG2969 2021 HONDA HR-V TBA 14 WXF3761 2012 HINO WU710R-HKMML3 50000 15 VAH3405 2017 MITSUBISHI FUSO CANTER 50000 Scan QR to download Pickles Auctions App Bank Repossessed bikes and cars for sale by auction. All auctions are conducted via eBidding on Wednesday 14, 21, & 28 February at 9.30am (bikes) and 11.00am (cars). All are invited to join our PUBLIC AUCTION. Viewing and inspection on every Tuesday from 9.30am - 5.30pm. Download Pickles Auctions app to view all auction listings or visit www.pickles.my For more information call 016-6999170, WhatsApp 012-5553727 or email [email protected] PICKLES ASIA SDN BHD [1231292-D] Lot 19391, Batu 8 1⁄2, Jalan Klang Lama, Taman Desaria, 46000 Petaling Jaya, Selangor. 302 Jobs 322 Notices KLANG VALLEY PENANG | KEDAH PERAK | PERLIS | PAHANG | KELANTAN TERENGGANU MS. Shoba / MS. Balqish TEL: 03-7784 8888 FAX: 03-7784 4424 MALACCA | N.SEMBILAN MR. Rajah TEL: 012-628 2844 FAX: 06-764 2051 JOHOR BAHRU MS. Anne Lim TEL: 013-770 6699 FAX: 07-355 5549 CALL TO PLACE CLASSIFIED ADS SCAN ME TUESDAY FEB 13, 2024
SPORTS SPTUESDAY | FEB 13, 2024 28 DALAM MAHKAMAH MAJISTRET DI KUALA LUMPUR DALAM WILAYAH PERSEKUTUAN KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA GUAMAN SIVIL NO: WA-A72M-21976-11/2023 ANTARA YAYASAN IHSAN RAKYAT (No Syarikat: 201201017719 [1003231-A]) …PLAINTIF DAN KAVESH PATMANATHAN (No. K/P: 910930-10-5427) ...DEFENDAN NOTIS (IKLAN PENYAMPAIAN GANTI) Kepada: - 1) KAVESH PATMANATHAN SILA AMBIL PERHATIAN bahawa suatu tindakan telah dimulakan terhadap kamu di Mahkamah Mjistret Kuala Lumpur , dalam Guaman No. WAA72M-21976-11/2023 oleh Yayasan Ihsan Rakyat (“Plaintif”) yang beralamat di di Tingkat 20, Menara Teo Chew, No. 1, Jalan Lumut, 50400 Kuala Lumpur di mana Plaintif menuntut terhadap kamu antara lain untuk membayar semula pinjaman, faedah dan kos. DAN TELAH DIPERINTAHKAN bahawa Writ Saman dan Pernyataan Tuntutan bertarikh 29.11.2023 dilaksanakan secara penyampaian ganti terhadap kamu dengan menghantar melalui serahan melalui menampalkan pada Papan Notis Mahkamah Majistret Kuala Lumpur, menampalkan di alamat terakhir Defendan yang diketahui Plaintif dan mengiklankan sekali di suatu penerbitan akhbar ‘The Sun’ dan penyampaian Writ Saman dan Pernyataan Tuntutan sedemikian akan disifatkan sebagai penyerahan lengkap dan sempurna terhadap kamu dalam masa tujuh hari (7) hari selepas tarikh penampalan atau pengiklanan yang terakhir tersebut. Jika kamu berhasrat untuk membela tindakan tersebut, kamu mestilah memasukkan kehadiran sama ada secara sendiri atau melalui peguamcara kamu. Jika kamu ingkar hadir sedemikian, penghakiman boleh diberikan terhadap kamu. Bertarikh pada 13 haribulan Februari, 2024 …………t.t………… TETUAN GM TAN & COMPANY Peguamcara Plaintif NOTIS (IKLAN PENYAMPAIAN GANTI) ini telah difailkan oleh Tetuan GM Tan & Company,peguamcara pihak Plaintif yang beralamat di C-10-28, Block C, Lobby 2, Centum Oasis Corporate Park, No. 2, Jalan PJU 1A/2, Ara Damansara, 47301 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan. Tel No. : +603 2714 5456 E-mel :[email protected] Faks No.: +603 2714 5457 Ruj Kami:GMT/YIR(RCE)/00887/2023 322 Notices DALAM MAHKAMAH TINGGI MALAYA DI JOHOR BAHRU DALAM NEGERI JOHOR DARUL TAKZIM GUAMAN SIVIL NO.: JA-22NCvC-54-05/2023 ANTARA 1. ZHEJIANG JINCHENLONG IMPORT & EXPORT TRADE CO LTD (No. Pendaftaran Syarikat Republik Rakyat China: 91330212MA283G8M9Q) 2. YE DONG LIANG (Pasport Republik Rakyat China No. E49027276) … PLAINTIF-PLAINTIF DAN 1. ANG BOON LEONG (No. K/P: 770410-06-6215) 2. BAY HUI TING (No. K/P: 950319-01-6792) 3. MOHD NAZIR BIN NAYAN (No. K/P: 800912-05-5385) 4. ANG JOYCE (No. K/P: 750412-10-5654) … DEFENDAN-DEFENDAN NOTIS PENYAMPAIAN GANTI Kepada:- ANG BOON LEONG PS10-19, Jalan Wangsa 2/62, Prima Saujana, Taman Wangsa Permai Kepong, 52200 Kepong, Kuala Lumpur AMBIL PERHATIAN bahawa Notis Permohonan Ex Parte (Permohonan Plaintif-Plaintif untuk Injunksi Interim) termeterai bertarikh 9.5.2023, Afidavit Sokongan (Permohonan Plaintif-Plaintif untuk Injunksi Interim) yang diikrarkan oleh Ye Dong Liang pada 3.5.2023 dan perintah bertarikh 21.5.2023 (secara kolektif dirujuk sebagai “Kertas-Kertas Kausa”) telah difailkan terhadap anda di Mahkamah Tinggi Malaya di Johor Bahru di bawah Guaman No. JA-22NCvC-54-05/2023 oleh Zhejiang Jinchenlong Import & Export Trade Co Ltd (No. Pendaftaran Syarikat Republik Rakyat China: 91330212MA283G8M9Q) dan Ye Dong Liang (Pasport Republik Rakyat China No. E49027276) dan melalui Perintah bertarikh 9.7.2023 MAHKAMAH TELAH MEMUTUSKAN BAHAWA Kertas-Kertas Kausa disampaikan kepada anda secara: 1. Penampalan sesalinan Kertas-Kertas Kausa di papan kenyataan / papan notis Mahkamah Tinggi di Johor Bahru; dan 2. Mengiklankan Notis Penyampaian Ganti ini dalam surat khabar harian tempatan Bahasa Inggeris dan Bahasa Cina sebanyak satu (1) kali sahaja; di mana tampalan dan/atau iklan tersebut dianggap sebagai penyampaian yang baik dan wajar bagi Kertas-Kertas Kausa selepas 14 hari dari hari terakhir tarikh tampalan atau pengiklanan. Sila ambil perhatian bahawa Lampiran 3 adalah ditetapkan untuk Pendengaran secara inter partes pada jam 9.00 pagi, 18.2.2024 melalui platform sidang video secara Zoom di hadapan Yang Arif Puan Nurulhuda Nur’aini Binti Mohamad Nor dan anda dikehendaki memfailkan Afidavit Jawapan anda terhadap Lampiran 3 dalam tempoh 14 hari selepas penyampaian (termasuk hari penyampaian), jika gagal, tindakan lanjut boleh diambil terhadap anda. Sila ambil perhatian selanjutnya bahawa Kertas-Kertas Kausa boleh diperiksa pada waktu pejabat dari 9.00 pagi hingga 6.00 petang di pejabat peguamcara PlaintifPlaintif di Tingkat 10-1, Menara B, Menara Prima, Jalan PJU 1/39, Dataran Prima, 47301 Petaling Jaya , Selangor. Bertarikh pada 5 haribulan Februari 2024 MWKA ………………………… Peguamcara untuk Plaintif-Plaintif MahWengKwai & Associates NOTIS PENYAMPAIAN GANTI ini difailkan oleh MahWengKwai & Associates, peguamcara bagi Plaintif-plaintif yang dinamakan di atas dengan alamat penyampaiannya di Level 10-1, Tower B, Menara Prima, Jalan PJU 1/39, Dataran Prima, 47301 Petaling Jaya, Selangor. [Tel: 03-7887 2702 / Faks: 03-7887 2703] [Ruj: M9492/RM/GCC/DRL/LCW(TK)] 322 Notices NOTICE IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF E&O VISTA SDN BHD [Company Registration No: 197801002329 (39339-U)] (In Members’ Voluntary Winding Up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that an Extraordinary General Meeting of the Company held at Level 3A (Annexe), Menara Milenium, 8 Jalan Damanlela, Damansara Heights, 50490 Kuala Lumpur on the 08th day of February 2024, the following resolutions was duly passed. “THAT the Company be wound up voluntarily pursuant to Section 439(1)(b) of the Companies Act, 2016 and that Mr. Wong Heng Boon of Wisma Laxton, 9-3 Jalan Desa, Taman Desa, 58100 Kuala Lumpur be and is hereby appointed as Liquidator for the purpose of such winding up with all powers given by the Section 456 of the Companies Act, 2016 and that the remuneration of the said Liquidator is to be agreed upon between the Liquidator and the Directors of the Company. AND THAT the appointed Liquidator be and is hereby authorised to distribute in cash and/or in specie the surplus assets of the Company to the contributories of the Company.” Dated this 13th February 2024 Tan Hwee Hian Director Kuala Lumpur NOTICE IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF E&O VISTA SDN BHD [Company Registration No: 197801002329 (39339-U)] (In Members’ Voluntary Winding Up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the creditors of E&O Vista Sdn Bhd which is under members’ voluntary winding up, are required on or before 14th March 2024 to send their names and addresses with particulars of their debts and claims and the names and addresses of the solicitors (if any) to the undersigned Liquidator at Wisma Laxton, 9-3 Jalan Desa, Taman Desa, 58100 Kuala Lumpur, and if so required by notice in writing from the Liquidator, or by their solicitors or personally required to come in and prove their said debts and claims at such time and place as shall be specified in such notice, or in default thereof they will be excluded from the benefit of any distribution made before such debts and claims are proved. Dated this 13th February 2024 Wong Heng Boon Liquidator Kuala Lumpur 322 Notices DALAM MAHKAMAH MAJISTRET DI KUALA LUMPUR DALAM WILAYAH PERSEKUTUAN KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA GUAMAN SIVIL NO: WA-A72M-21976-11/2023 ANTARA YAYASAN IHSAN RAKYAT (No Syarikat: 201201017719 [1003231-A]) …PLAINTIF DAN KAVESH PATMANATHAN (No. K/P: 910930-10-5427) ...DEFENDAN NOTIS (IKLAN PENYAMPAIAN GANTI) Kepada: - 1) KAVESH PATMANATHAN SILA AMBIL PERHATIAN bahawa suatu tindakan telah dimulakan terhadap kamu di Mahkamah Mjistret Kuala Lumpur , dalam Guaman No. WAA72M-21976-11/2023 oleh Yayasan Ihsan Rakyat (“Plaintif”) yang beralamat di di Tingkat 20, Menara Teo Chew, No. 1, Jalan Lumut, 50400 Kuala Lumpur di mana Plaintif menuntut terhadap kamu antara lain untuk membayar semula pinjaman, faedah dan kos. DAN TELAH DIPERINTAHKAN bahawa Writ Saman dan Pernyataan Tuntutan bertarikh 29.11.2023 dilaksanakan secara penyampaian ganti terhadap kamu dengan menghantar melalui serahan melalui menampalkan pada Papan Notis Mahkamah Majistret Kuala Lumpur, menampalkan di alamat terakhir Defendan yang diketahui Plaintif dan mengiklankan sekali di suatu penerbitan akhbar ‘The Sun’ dan penyampaian Writ Saman dan Pernyataan Tuntutan sedemikian akan disifatkan sebagai penyerahan lengkap dan sempurna terhadap kamu dalam masa tujuh hari (7) hari selepas tarikh penampalan atau pengiklanan yang terakhir tersebut. Jika kamu berhasrat untuk membela tindakan tersebut, kamu mestilah memasukkan kehadiran sama ada secara sendiri atau melalui peguamcara kamu. Jika kamu ingkar hadir sedemikian, penghakiman boleh diberikan terhadap kamu. Bertarikh pada 13 haribulan Februari, 2024 …………t.t………… TETUAN GM TAN & COMPANY Peguamcara Plaintif NOTIS (IKLAN PENYAMPAIAN GANTI) ini telah difailkan oleh Tetuan GM Tan & Company,peguamcara pihak Plaintif yang beralamat di C-10-28, Block C, Lobby 2, Centum Oasis Corporate Park, No. 2, Jalan PJU 1A/2, Ara Damansara, 47301 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan. Tel No. : +603 2714 5456 E-mel :[email protected] Faks No.: +603 2714 5457 Ruj Kami:GMT/YIR(RCE)/00887/2023 322 Notices DALAM MAHKAMAH TINGGI MALAYA DI JOHOR BAHRU DALAM NEGERI JOHOR DARUL TAKZIM GUAMAN SIVIL NO.: JA-22NCvC-54-05/2023 ANTARA 1. ZHEJIANG JINCHENLONG IMPORT & EXPORT TRADE CO LTD (No. Pendaftaran Syarikat Republik Rakyat China: 91330212MA283G8M9Q) 2. YE DONG LIANG (Pasport Republik Rakyat China No. E49027276) … PLAINTIF-PLAINTIF DAN 1. ANG BOON LEONG (No. K/P: 770410-06-6215) 2. BAY HUI TING (No. K/P: 950319-01-6792) 3. MOHD NAZIR BIN NAYAN (No. K/P: 800912-05-5385) 4. ANG JOYCE (No. K/P: 750412-10-5654) … DEFENDAN-DEFENDAN NOTIS PENYAMPAIAN GANTI Kepada:- ANG BOON LEONG PS10-19, Jalan Wangsa 2/62, Prima Saujana, Taman Wangsa Permai Kepong, 52200 Kepong, Kuala Lumpur AMBIL PERHATIAN bahawa Notis Permohonan Ex Parte (Permohonan Plaintif-Plaintif untuk Injunksi Interim) termeterai bertarikh 9.5.2023, Afidavit Sokongan (Permohonan Plaintif-Plaintif untuk Injunksi Interim) yang diikrarkan oleh Ye Dong Liang pada 3.5.2023 dan perintah bertarikh 21.5.2023 (secara kolektif dirujuk sebagai “Kertas-Kertas Kausa”) telah difailkan terhadap anda di Mahkamah Tinggi Malaya di Johor Bahru di bawah Guaman No. JA-22NCvC-54-05/2023 oleh Zhejiang Jinchenlong Import & Export Trade Co Ltd (No. Pendaftaran Syarikat Republik Rakyat China: 91330212MA283G8M9Q) dan Ye Dong Liang (Pasport Republik Rakyat China No. E49027276) dan melalui Perintah bertarikh 9.7.2023 MAHKAMAH TELAH MEMUTUSKAN BAHAWA Kertas-Kertas Kausa disampaikan kepada anda secara: 1. Penampalan sesalinan Kertas-Kertas Kausa di papan kenyataan / papan notis Mahkamah Tinggi di Johor Bahru; dan 2. Mengiklankan Notis Penyampaian Ganti ini dalam surat khabar harian tempatan Bahasa Inggeris dan Bahasa Cina sebanyak satu (1) kali sahaja; di mana tampalan dan/atau iklan tersebut dianggap sebagai penyampaian yang baik dan wajar bagi Kertas-Kertas Kausa selepas 14 hari dari hari terakhir tarikh tampalan atau pengiklanan. Sila ambil perhatian bahawa Lampiran 3 adalah ditetapkan untuk Pendengaran secara inter partes pada jam 9.00 pagi, 18.2.2024 melalui platform sidang video secara Zoom di hadapan Yang Arif Puan Nurulhuda Nur’aini Binti Mohamad Nor dan anda dikehendaki memfailkan Afidavit Jawapan anda terhadap Lampiran 3 dalam tempoh 14 hari selepas penyampaian (termasuk hari penyampaian), jika gagal, tindakan lanjut boleh diambil terhadap anda. Sila ambil perhatian selanjutnya bahawa Kertas-Kertas Kausa boleh diperiksa pada waktu pejabat dari 9.00 pagi hingga 6.00 petang di pejabat peguamcara PlaintifPlaintif di Tingkat 10-1, Menara B, Menara Prima, Jalan PJU 1/39, Dataran Prima, 47301 Petaling Jaya , Selangor. Bertarikh pada 5 haribulan Februari 2024 MWKA ………………………… Peguamcara untuk Plaintif-Plaintif MahWengKwai & Associates NOTIS PENYAMPAIAN GANTI ini difailkan oleh MahWengKwai & Associates, peguamcara bagi Plaintif-plaintif yang dinamakan di atas dengan alamat penyampaiannya di Level 10-1, Tower B, Menara Prima, Jalan PJU 1/39, Dataran Prima, 47301 Petaling Jaya, Selangor. [Tel: 03-7887 2702 / Faks: 03-7887 2703] [Ruj: M9492/RM/GCC/DRL/LCW(TK)] 322 Notices NOTICE IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF E&O VISTA SDN BHD [Company Registration No: 197801002329 (39339-U)] (In Members’ Voluntary Winding Up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that an Extraordinary General Meeting of the Company held at Level 3A (Annexe), Menara Milenium, 8 Jalan Damanlela, Damansara Heights, 50490 Kuala Lumpur on the 08th day of February 2024, the following resolutions was duly passed. “THAT the Company be wound up voluntarily pursuant to Section 439(1)(b) of the Companies Act, 2016 and that Mr. Wong Heng Boon of Wisma Laxton, 9-3 Jalan Desa, Taman Desa, 58100 Kuala Lumpur be and is hereby appointed as Liquidator for the purpose of such winding up with all powers given by the Section 456 of the Companies Act, 2016 and that the remuneration of the said Liquidator is to be agreed upon between the Liquidator and the Directors of the Company. AND THAT the appointed Liquidator be and is hereby authorised to distribute in cash and/or in specie the surplus assets of the Company to the contributories of the Company.” Dated this 13th February 2024 Tan Hwee Hian Director Kuala Lumpur NOTICE IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF E&O VISTA SDN BHD [Company Registration No: 197801002329 (39339-U)] (In Members’ Voluntary Winding Up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the creditors of E&O Vista Sdn Bhd which is under members’ voluntary winding up, are required on or before 14th March 2024 to send their names and addresses with particulars of their debts and claims and the names and addresses of the solicitors (if any) to the undersigned Liquidator at Wisma Laxton, 9-3 Jalan Desa, Taman Desa, 58100 Kuala Lumpur, and if so required by notice in writing from the Liquidator, or by their solicitors or personally required to come in and prove their said debts and claims at such time and place as shall be specified in such notice, or in default thereof they will be excluded from the benefit of any distribution made before such debts and claims are proved. Dated this 13th February 2024 Wong Heng Boon Liquidator Kuala Lumpur 322 Notices Big shoes to fill F1 stars lining up for shot at Hamilton’s Mercedes seat MICK SCHUMACHER claims to have held discussions with Toto Wolff over taking over from Lewis Hamilton in 2025, with more talks scheduled over the coming days. The German has been a reserve driver with Mercedes since losing his Haas seat at the end of the 2022 season. Whoever steps in to replace Ferraribound Hamilton will have huge shoes to fill. The Brit has won six world titles with Mercedes, leading them through an unprecedented period of success between 2013 and 2021. Despite his legendary F1 lineage, Schumacher doesn’t come close to matching Hamilton in terms of pedigree. The 24-year-old scored 12 Drivers’ Championship points across 43 Grands Prix with Haas before being ruthlessly axed by Guenther Steiner. Having taken on a reserve role with Mercedes last season, Schumacher still holds out hope of being considered for the soon-tobe-vacant Silver Arrows seat, even claiming that he and team principal Wolff have held “brief” discussions about him racing alongside George Russell. “It is of course a position that brings with it a lot of pressure,” he told sport.de. “But in terms of feeling, I feel I’m up to it. We will certainly be able to talk a little more in the next few days. “My chance (to return) is there, I don’t know how big it is yet. I think it will also depend a bit on performance. “Hopefully I can recommend myself. I think a few people out there know how good I am.” Schumacher will be competing with a whole host of talented F1 stars to land the Mercedes seat for 2025. Fernando Alonso, Sebastian Vettel and Carlos Sainz are among those believed to be in the frame, and all three of them boast multiple Grand Prix victories. Wolff has refused to commit one way or the other when it comes to the strategy Mercedes will use to appoint Hamilton’s replacement, raising the possibility of the Silver Arrows going after an exciting prospect rather than an established star. “As you can imagine, we’ve been looking at our options already,” Wolff told CNBC. “We like the opportunities out there and maybe we are going to be bold as well. “I think the spectrum is from the very young talent which could be the future for a long, long time, all the way to the other end of the spectrum, which is lots of performance and knowledge. “So I’m not sure where this is going to end. But the next few months are going to be interesting in evaluating all those options.” – Express Newspapers NICK TAYLOR’S clutch putting at the par-4 18th hole at TPC Scottsdale allowed the Canadian to defeat Charley Hoffman in a playoff and win the WM Phoenix Open yesterday in Scottsdale, Arizona. Taylor captured his fourth PGA Tour victory and his second dramatic finish in the past eight months. At the RBC Canadian Open last June, Taylor made a 72- foot eagle putt to beat Englishman Tommy Fleetwood. This time, Taylor’s winning putt on the second playoff hole came from a more manageable 11 1/2 feet out. “It’s been fun to be in those moments,” said Taylor, who was the runner-up at last year’s Phoenix Open. “I think last year I drew a lot on for the Canadian Open and I’ve drawn on that for plenty of moments, as well. “For whatever reason it is, the later it gets, I just seem to get a little more locked in and zoned in and kind of relish those moments, and it’s been a lot of fun.” Hoffman shot his second straight 64 to charge ahead of the pack and be the first in the clubhouse at 21-under 263. Taylor finished his bogey-free round of 65 by hitting his second shot at No. 18 out of the rough to 9 1/2 feet of the cup, then sinking the birdie putt to force a playoff. “Putting myself in contention coming down the stretch, I didn’t really falter, so I’ve got to give Nick credit,” Hoffman said. “He came back with birdies on 16 and 18 and then 18 and 18. He birdied four of the last five holes he played. Hats off to him for doing that. I played my butt off. I gave myself a chance.” The pair finished the final round three shots ahead of World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler (66) and Sam Burns (64). Sahith Theegala (69) rounded out the top five at 17-under. – Field Level Media Taylor rides hot putter to playoff victory Australia U-19s emulate seniors AUSTRALIAN dominance of major cricket events continued yesterday when they beat India by 79 runs in the U-19 World Cup final at Willowmoore Park in South Africa. Australia’s senior men’s team won the world Test championship and Cricket World Cup in 2023 – beating India in the finals on both occasions. The Australian women’s team are the current 50-overs and T20 World Cup champions. Yesterday’s final between the only unbeaten teams in the tournament was surprisingly one-sided. Australia made 253 for seven in their 50 overs after winning the toss and deciding to bat. Strongly-built left-hander Harjas Singh made a hard-hit 55 to highlight a solid batting performance. India’s batting had been their strength leading up the final but they crashed to 122 for eight against Australia’s pace bowling attack. Opening batsman Adarsh Singh (47) was the only top-order batsman to shine. Murugan Abhishek (42) led some lower-order resistance before the five-time champions were bowled out for 174. Sri Lanka secure series win over Afghanistan SRI LANKA secured a convincing 155 run win over Afghanistan in the second one-day international on Sunday, taking an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three match series. Afghanistan, set a target of 309 to level the series, were shot out for 153 inside 34 overs as leg-spinner Wanindu Hasaranga starred with four wickets. “We are quite disappointed with the way we performed today,” Afghanistan’s skipper Hashmatullah Shahidi said. “We are a better side than this.” Afghanistan were well placed at 128 for one in pursuit of their target, but once Rahmat Shah (54) and Ibrahim Zadran (63) were dismissed there was little fight from the rest of the batters. Hasaranga was backed up by seamers as Dilshan Madushanka claimed two wickets in an over and Asitha Fernando, who also ended with two wickets. Afghanistan collapsed losing eight wickets for 10 runs, as Sri Lanka dominated under lights. “Credit to all the bowlers who helped to pull this off”, Sri Lankan skipper Kusal Mendis said. Hoshino claims maiden European Tour title JAPAN’S Rikuya Hoshino produced a strong closing round at the Qatar Masters to claim his first title on the European Tour on Sunday. The 27-year-old, in a three-way tie for the lead overnight, carded a fourth round 68 to finish on 14-under at Doha Golf Club. France’s Ugo Coussaud came in second, one shot behind, with Scott Jamieson a further shot adrift in third. He became the first Japanese player to win the event and only the fourth to win on the European Tour after Isao Aoki, Hideki Matsuyama and Ryo Hisatsune. “I’m honoured to win at this wonderful tournament,” he said. “I was second at the last two Australian tournaments so I’m so happy to finally win. Of course I was nervous but I just tried to keep enjoying it,” added Hoshino who was a runner-up twice in Australia at the start of the 2024 Race to Dubai European season. Rybakina wins Abu Dhabi crown TOP-SEEDED Elena Rybakina (pix) secured her second title of the season with a smooth 6-1, 6-4 victory over Daria Kasatkina at the Abu Dhabi Open on Sunday. The world No. 5, who started the year with a title in Brisbane, added a seventh trophy to her resume and is now joint-second on the match-wins leaderboard with 11 victories to her name in 2024. Light rain provided some late drama as it briefly interrupted the final game of the contest, with players instructed to wait on their benches with Rybakina leading 6-1, 5-4, 30/30. It was only a short delay though as the 2022 Wimbledon champion closed out the win with two good serves on the 68-minute mark. “First I want to congratulate Daria of course with a great week, congrats to you and the team,” Russian-born Kazakh Rybakina said in her victory speech. “Tough week, especially last matches, and tomorrow is already a match in Doha, so hopefully we both recover and we do well there and maybe play the final there.” BRIEFS Mick Schumacher. – REUTERSPIX
SPORTS SPORTS TUESDAY | FEB 13, 2024 29 Against all gainst all odds Haller hits winner as Ivory Coast beat Nigeria to take Afcon title S EBASTIEN HALLER scored a dramatic late winner as hosts Ivory Coast fought back to beat Victor Osimhen’s Nigeria 2-1 in yesterday’s Africa Cup of Nations final and complete the most remarkable of major tournament turnarounds by claiming their third continental title. Nigeria looked set to repeat their 1-0 victory over the Ivorians at the Ebimpe Olympic Stadium during the group stage when captain William Troost-Ekong – who had netted a penalty to decide that first meeting – rose to head in the opener late in the first half. However, Franck Kessie equalised just after the hour mark and Haller turned in Simon Adingra’s cross in the 81st minute to spark wild celebrations among the sea of orange in the Abidjan stands. Ivory Coast’s success sees them add this year’s title to those claimed in 1992 and 2015, while this win also allows them to join Nigeria on three Cup of Nations triumphs overall. Spearheaded by reigning African player of the year Osimhen, the Nigerians had looked the most formidable team in the competition over the last month. But Ivory Coast’s sense of destiny was simply too overpowering, as they became the first host country to win the Afcon since 2006. Didier Drogba captained the Elephants team that lost on penalties to Egypt in Cairo in that final 18 years ago, while this time he was among the spectators to witness a stunning victory for his country. “It is greater than a fairytale,” said coach Emerse Fae, who took over a stricken team midtournament. “I am struggling to take it all in. When I think about all we have been through, the difficult moments, moments when we were behind, when we came back in the last minute of games. We are miracle survivors.” It is an incredible achievement for a side that was on the brink of elimination in the group stage after losing 4-0 to Equatorial Guinea on Jan 22. That was their heaviest ever home defeat and the Ivorians then parted company with coach Jean-Louis Gasset, replacing him with Fae, a teammate of Drogba’s in 2006. They then began a remarkable turnaround which saw them oust holders Senegal on penalties, beat Mali with a last-gasp goal in extratime, and edge out DR Congo with a Haller goal in the last four. “All our games were difficult. We kept having to come from behind and we really had to draw on all our physical and mental reserves,” observed Fae. “I can’t properly express my joy. It is massive. I dreamed of winning the Afcon as a player and didn’t manage it,” he added. “Now I have had the opportunity as a coach, albeit in strange circumstances. “I took over when we were not even sure of getting out of our group... thankfully we got a second chance and grabbed it.” The story of Haller’s own tournament was remarkable too, with the Borussia Dortmund striker scoring the winner in the semifinal and the final. He was almost substituted moments before turning in Simon Adingra’s cross for the clinching goal in the final. “We dreamt of this moment so many times,” an emotional Haller told French broadcaster beIN Sports. “These scenes of joy, the country deserves this too. We kept believing until the end. “My teammates pushed me to stay on the pitch for as long as possible and thanks to them I scored.” – AFP AC MILAN continued their pursuit of Serie A leaders Inter Milan yesterday by beating Napoli 1-0 and dealing another huge blow to the troubled champions. Theo Hernandez scored the only goal of an engrossing game in the 25th minute at the San Siro, rolling home the winner after collecting a brilliant Rafael Leao pass. Milan stay eight points behind local rivals Inter in third after stretching their unbeaten league streak to nine matches, of which they have won seven. “We’ve done really well in the last month or so, we’re almost going at Inter’s pace, and they’re having an incredible season,” said Milan coach Stefano Pioli. “Theo has a great understanding with Leao on the left, they know each other so well that they can always find each other.” While Inter may prove too tough to catch, Milan’s recent good form has solidified their spot in the division’s Champions League spots. Milan are 13 points ahead of Bologna – who thumped Lecce 4-0 and took fifth place from Roma – and are almost certain to grab a spot in Europe’s top club competition. The same cannot be said for Napoli as Walter Mazzarri’s side are languishing in ninth, seven points from the top four, after their eighth defeat of a dismal title defence. Napoli are a whopping 25 points behind Inter with the pair having played 23 matches, but more importantly are at serious risk of missing out on the Champions League. Southern Italy’s biggest club, who romped to the Scudetto last term, have lost more league matches than they have won since Mazzarri took over from the sacked Rudi Garcia in November. “I think it (the Champions League) is possible. You saw today the level that we can get to. We’ve had everything thrown at us recently with injuries and we’re getting big players back. “We need to be confident that we can get three points off anyone, as we showed with how we played today.” – AFP BARCELONA’S 16-year-old starlet Lamine Yamal struck twice to rescue the struggling Catalans a 3-3 draw against Granada in La Liga yesterday. Xavi Hernandez’s side, third, shared the spoils with their relegation-battling opponents, 19th, after a thrilling battle at the Olympic Stadium, but now trail leaders Real Madrid by 10 points. Los Blancos thrashed second-place Girona 4-0 on Sunday to move five points clear at the top and take full control of the title race. Earlier Atletico Madrid’s faint hopes of challenging for La Liga deflated further with a 1-0 defeat by Sevilla. Youngster Yamal sent Barcelona ahead but Granada battled back with goals from Ricard Sanchez and on-loan Manchester United winger Facundo Pellistri. Robert Lewandowski pulled Barcelona level but Ignasi Miquel again sent Granada in front, before Yamal struck his second, from long range. “It wasn’t to be, it’s another lost opportunity, but we have to keep working,” Yamal told Movistar. “I’ve got the trust of the coach but right now I’m thinking more about the draw and that we dropped two points than in my performance.” It was the kind of Barcelona performance which summarised why Xavi has decided to leave the club at the end of the season, convinced the club needs a change of direction. “We gave away goals and chances in many moments,” Xavi told Movistar. “The team had faith, desire and courage like always, but it wasn’t enough and now (winning La Liga) is even harder for us.” Atletico Madrid came up short against Sevilla, who earned a second consecutive victory for the first time all season to move 15th, four points clear of the relegation zone. Isaac Romero headed home after 15 minutes for the Andalucians with Atletico, fourth, trailing league leaders Real Madrid by 13 points. Their hopes of silverware are now pinned on the Champions League. “We’ve lost a lot of points, so many, and games away from home – it’s something that can’t happen if you want to fight for La Liga,” Atletico goalkeeper Jan Oblak told DAZN. “It’s the truth, we have to be honest… we’re a long way off Real Madrid.” Atletico coach Diego Simeone said he was not concerned by his team’s defeat. “I’d be worried if we weren’t playing like we were -- I’m proud of what the players are doing and convinced the goals will come,” he said. – AFP Yamal rescues ragged Barca ‘I’m sure Alonso will stay’ BAYER LEVERKUSEN sporting director Simon Rolfes said yesterday he was certain in-demand coach Xabi Alonso would stay with the league leaders beyond this season. Speaking on German TV the day after Alonso’s Leverkusen thumped perennial Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich 3-0 to take a five-point lead atop the table, Rolfes was asked if Alonso would stay beyond the summer. “I’m sure of it,” Rolfes said on the Doppelpass football programme. “One thing is the contract, the other is how comfortable he feels. He knows we will have a top team next year.” Alonso extended his deal at Leverkusen before the start of this season until 2026 but has been heavily linked with a move away. Liverpool, who will have a vacancy in the dugout at the end of the season after manager Jurgen Klopp’s decision to step down, have been linked with Alonso, as have former sides Bayern Munich and Real Madrid. Undav scores again for Stuttgart STUTTGART’S Deniz Undav scored his fifth goal in his last three games during a 3-1 home win over lowly Mainz yesterday. The hosts dominated from start to finish against a struggling Mainz side with only one win in the league this season. Maximilian Mittelstaedt and Jamie Leweling struck in first-half stoppage time before Undav blasted in on 73 minutes. Mainz striker Ludovic Ajorque scored a consolation goal a few minutes later. Stuttgart moved three points clear of fourth-placed Borussia Dortmund, with RB Leipzig a further three points back in fifth. Undav, on loan from Premier League side Brighton, now has 14 league goals in 18 appearances this season. “I don’t care how many goals I have – the main thing is the three points,” Undav told DAZN. Zakaria double downs Nice SWITZERLAND midfielder Denis Zakaria scored twice as Monaco defeated Nice 3-2 in Ligue 1 yesterday to move up to third and within a point of their Cote d’Azur rivals. Zakaria powered in a 30-yard drive to put Monaco ahead at the Allianz Riviera only for Gaetan Laborde to equalise from the spot after a foul by Thilo Kehrer. Monaco regained the lead early in the second half when Zakaria headed in Takumi Minamino’s cross, with Nice captain Dante then sent off for catching the Japan international after a sliding challenge. Evann Guessand’s looping header brought Nice level for a second time, but Aleksandr Golovin followed in a rebound to grab the winning goal with 13 minutes left. After a 13-match unbeaten run to start the season, Nice have now lost four times in eight matches – allowing PSG to open up a commanding 11-point lead at the top. AC make sure Napoli’s troubles continue SIDENETTING President of Ivory Coast Alassane Ouattara (centre) lifts the Africa Cup of Nations trophy while celebrating with the team. – AFPPIX
SPORTS SPORTS TUESDAY | FEB 13, 2024 30 MIKEL ARTETA believes Arsenal are gaining momentum in the title race after they roared to a 6-0 win at West Ham. The Gunners backed up the previous week’s big triumph over Liverpool with another statement victory, their biggest away win in the Premier League. Their title bid hit the buffers in this fixture last season when they blew a twogoal lead to draw 2-2 but there was no chance of a repeat after William Saliba headed them in front and West Ham promptly collapsed. Declan Rice grabbed a pair of assists against his former club while Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Magalhaes and Leandro Trossard were also on target, all before half-time. Saka scored his second midway through the second half and Rice rubbed salt in the wounds with a long-range sixth. “We are maintaining and building some momentum now,” said Gunners boss Arteta. “Performances have been strong as well as results in recent weeks. We need to maintain that because other teams are doing that as well. We are not the only ones.” It was a chastening afternoon for West Ham and manager David Moyes pulled no punches after his heaviest defeat in charge. “It was a really poor day for us, very difficult to explain really,” he said. “Arsenal played extremely well, give them credit, but it’s difficult to explain how we played so poorly. “We’re normally a lot stronger, we didn’t show that today. I’m disappointed with the way we fell apart when the game hadn’t looked as if it was going to be as big as that. “I don’t think since I’ve come back to the club my team’s defended that way, ever. We were weak today, we didn’t do our jobs well enough, we didn’t fight to contain it harder. “I’ve had teams here which maybe haven’t had the same quality that we have now but we would have made sure we didn’t put in a performance like that, that’s for sure.” When West Ham beat Arsenal and Manchester United in December, there was talk of a Champions League challenge. They have lost to both in the past eight days, shipping nine goals in the process, and are still without a win in 2024. Alarm bells might not be ringing for Moyes just yet, but the sight of hundreds of West Ham fans leaving at half-time told a sorry tale and the Scot cannot keep dining out on last season’s Europa Conference League success forever. “To be a football supporter, and especially at this club – I came back twice to keep them out of relegation – there’s always going to be bad times,” he added. “It was only a few months ago we were having probably the best time West Ham have ever had. “Probably the last three years have been as good a time as West Ham have had. Sixth, seventh in the league, a semifinal in Europe, a final. “I still think this club has grown and undoubtedly we’ve had a terrible day today. “I totally understand them leaving but at football clubs you’re going to have bad days. I certainly wouldn’t forget the good ones.” – The Independent ERLING HAALAND was pleased to get back on the scoresheet as Manchester City’s momentum continued to gather with a hardfought 2-0 win over Everton. The prolific Norwegian scored his first goals since returning to action from a foot injury as his late double finally saw off the resilient Toffees at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday. With Haaland back in tandem with Kevin De Bruyne, who has also returned from his own lengthy lay-off, last season’s treble winners are in a strong position as they approach the decisive phase of the campaign. “It’s a fantastic feeling,” said Haaland, whose first 19 goals of the season came before he was sidelined in early December. “It’s fantastic to be back and it’s also good to keep on winning. That’s important and we have to keep going. “We have already been on quite a good run. It is a good thing to start to click now. That’s never bad. It’s in the next few months when you win things, so we keep going.” City found it tough to break down the stubborn Merseysiders, who are caught up in another relegation battle after their 10-point deduction earlier in the season. The breakthrough came soon after manager Pep Guardiola introduced the lively De Bruyne and Kyle Walker off the bench, and it was Haaland who delivered the blow as Everton struggled to clear a 70th-minute corner. De Bruyne then played in Haaland to secure the result five minutes from time. “Back to normal finally,” said Haaland. “It’s good to be back to normal. “We knew how the game was going to be and they were going to make it difficult for us. “But we knew if we trusted ourselves it was going to be really difficult for (Everton). That’s what we did and in the end it was fantastic to win.” – The Independent Locked and loaded Gunners Arsenal building ‘momentum’ in title race after West Ham thrashing City have started to click, warns Haaland LIVERPOOL captain Virgil van Dijk insists they will “enjoy the ride” of challenging Manchester City in the Premier League title race. Pep Guardiola’s side briefly went top of the table for the first time since November with their lunchtime win over Everton before a 3-1 victory over Burnley restored the Reds’ two-point lead. The game against the Clarets was not without its difficulties and a record crowd of 59,896 endured some testing moments before second-half goals from Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez eased the pressure. Van Dijk accepts there will be a degree of nervousness attached to their bid to prevent City winning an unprecedented fourth title in a row just because of the sustained consistency of their rivals’ results come this time of year but he believes Liverpool, who are still fighting on four fronts, are well placed. “I think everyone would love to be in this situation that you are on the top and fighting for the pinnacle which is winning the Premier League,” he said. “It’s very difficult to stay calm. In the first half when Burnley became a couple of times dangerous you felt the crowd get a bit nervous but that is how a human being is. “We need the fans, we need all the players, we need everyone to be ready in order to find a way to win the game. “We will have setbacks, we will have moments of difficulty but we have to deal with that. Let’s just enjoy the ride. “We are in a situation that I think last year around this time you would never, well maybe not never, have believed where we are today. “We can only influence what we are doing. That’s the only thing.” After suffering only their second defeat at Arsenal the previous weekend, Liverpool struggled to find any rhythm. Trent Alexander-Arnold’s replacement Harvey Elliott provided both the assists and, despite earlier in the season admitting he did not want to be a “super sub”, his contributions off the bench have arguably been more influential than his displays when starting. “It’s very important for these guys that when they have their moments, Harvey in this case, they grab them with both hands. We need them,” added Van Dijk. “Even if you start on the bench, you have to be ready to make an impact. This was a great example of that again. “He (Elliott) would love to be playing week in, week out, but playing at the highest level you also have to be patient and don’t be frustrated that you don’t play as sometimes it is part of the business.” – The Independent Van Dijk relishing roller-coaster title race █ BY ANDY SIMS █ BY ANDY HAMPSON █ BY CARL MARKHAM Keane lets rip at ‘disgraceful’ Hammers ROY KEANE says David Moyes would have been fuming with his West Ham players as they went into half-time 4-0 down at home to Arsenal. Goals from William Saliba, Bukayo Saka, Gabriel and Leandro Trossard killed the match before the break. Thousands of West Ham fans left the London Stadium in sheer embarrassment at being thumped by their local rivals. And Keane tore into the Hammers players for being so far off the pace. “This is just rubbing salt through the wounds. West Ham, absolutely shocking,” Keane said. “There’s no movement, no attempts to make a tackle. “Credit to Arsenal because they’re making the most of it but this is so poor. Trossard gets to take two touches, great finish but I can’t believe what I’m watching – it is shocking from West Ham. “The last 10 or 15 minutes, they’ve been an absolute disgrace. The first half-an-hour was a bit cagey because they put Arsenal under a little bit of pressure but after that, it was so poor. “Odegaard hasn’t even had a glove laid on him and there’s ways to lose a game of football but the way West Ham are doing it, they look sluggish, they look old, they’re looking back, there’s no hunger, no desire. David Moyes must be fuming at halftime. “All credit to Arsenal, they’ve turned up, flexed their muscles and they deserve the lead but West Ham – disgrace.” Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson feared Arsenal would be out of the title race had they dropped points at West Ham. He said: “They’re just hanging on the coattails but it’s a big game. I think if they lose today, they’re out of it, 100%. Completely and utterly. “If Man City win their game in hand, that’s six points with 14 or so games left. At the start of the season, if you gave me 100 games for them to close the gap and Man City had a sixpoint lead at the start, I’d say Man City every day of the week. With only that many games left, it’s a must-win game for Arsenal.” – Express Newspapers Arsenal’s Gabriel (right) scores their third goal against West Ham. – REUTERSPIX
SPORTS SPORTS TUESDAY | FEB 13, 2024 31 Test for Tze Yong for Tze Yong National men’s singles shuttler back in action at BATC NATIONAL men’s singles shuttler, Ng Tze Yong, who suffered a back injury at the Malaysian Open in January, is likely to be fielded against Brunei at the Badminton Asia Team Championship (BATC) 2024 today. The national men’s singles badminton coach, Hendrawan, seemed to hint that Tze Yong, ranked 15th in the world, would be selected by the coaching line to be fielded in the first match. “Players’ preparations have been good, but maybe Tze Yong is more special because this is his first tournament after injury. Tze Yong looks good during training, even though not 100% yet. “So if you want to see him fit, you have to watch him in the first match; you will definitely see it,” he said when met by reporters at the Setia City Convention Centre in Shah Alam yesterday. Hendrawan also admitted that winning Group B would certainly give the country an advantage in the draw for the quarterfinal stage of the championship. Meanwhile, Tze Yong said he was thrilled to play in BATC 2024, after only going through the rehabilitation process for a month without participating in any tournament in the Badminton World Federation (BWF) calendar. He hopes that his presence in the BATC 2024, as a more experienced player, can help to contribute valuable points to the Malaysian team. “I want to play all the matches if my physical condition is good. Nobody wants to lose, so I want to contribute a point because every point is crucial and the team will not be under pressure if they lead,” he said. Tze Yong was forced to retire in the first round of the Malaysian Open, against Japan’s Koki Watanabe on Jan 10, after pulling up with a back injury after executing a smash. In BATC 2024, from today to Feb 18, Malaysia, as the defending champion in the men’s team category, is in Group B, alongside Brunei, Kazakhstan and Taiwan. – Bernama JMR celebrate successful debut season JOHOR Motorsports Racing (JMR) and Triple Eight brought the curtain down on a successful debut season in the 2023/2024 Asian Le Mans Series with a highly impressive second place in the GT category championship, missing out on the championship by a narrow two points. JMR in a statement said Tunku Panglima Johor Tunku Abdul Rahman Sultan Ibrahim, alongside Luca Stolz and Jordan Love, finished Race 5 at the Yas Marina circuit in Abu Dhabi on Sunday in P2 behind Leipert Motorsport Lamborghini Huracan in an action-packed fourhour race. However, a post-race penalty for a driving time infringement handed the win to JMR Triple Eight for back-to-back victories in Abu Dhabi. Race 4 at the same circuit on Saturday saw JMR clinch their maiden class victory after a flawless drive by the team, through an incidentladen race. The win saw the championship race for the GT category go down to the wire with JMR Triple Eight trailing eventual winners Pure Rxcing by nine points. “It has certainly been an exciting debut season in Asian Le Mans, which has exceeded expectations for JMR Triple Eight as they move on to the 2024 Intercontinental GT Challenge, which will feature endurance races at iconic tracks such as Bathurst (Australia), SpaFrancorchamps (Belgium) and Indianapolis (USA),” it said. Tunku Abdul Rahman in the same statement said the team made a huge step and went beyond what was expected. “We were just aiming to be in the Top 10, but to be fighting for the championship, I think it’s a really good step and a positive thing to look on from. “A really great job by everyone involved, all the drivers, the team and we’ll look forward to what’s coming up next,” he said. – Bernama THE late Mohd Azraai Khor Abdullah, who served as the coach for the Kedah football team between 2004 and 2009, has been described as a dedicated person who always had the players’ best interests at heart. Former Kedah Football Association (KFA) president, Datuk Seri Mahdzir Khalid, said that Azraai Khor, 72, not only wanted the management to focus on the players’ salaries and bonuses, but also on the welfare of their families. “When I was Kedah menteri besar, we won three trophies in 2007 and a hat-trick (of the championship) in 2008, which was a great and proud achievement for football in Kedah. “He was a dedicated coach; hardworking, and passionate about football,” said Mahdzir, after visiting the family of the late Azraai Khor, who passed away last week due to a stroke. According to Mahdzir, Mohd Azraai Khor once said that the management should look after the welfare of the players and their families so that they can concentrate better on training and matches. On the issue of salary arrears, which Kedah Darul Aman (KDA FC) players are currently said to be facing, Mahdzir, who is also Kedah Barisan Nasional (BN) chairman, said that the responsible parties should try to find a solution and not just blame other parties. “KDA FC is a company set up by the government through the KFA. One cannot arbitrarily say that it’s your fault because you didn’t pay the salary, and then the other person says it’s your fault because you didn’t pay the money. “The reality is that salaries have not been paid for five months, so you collectively take responsibility,” he said. Meanwhile, former KFA vice-president, Datuk Othman Aziz, believes that the association is still responsible for ensuring the success of football in Kedah, even though the team has been privatised. – Bernama Former Kedah FA president salutes late Azraai Khor ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE: Aston Villa 1 (Luiz 67) Manchester United 2 (Hojlund 17,McTominay 86), West Ham 0 Arsenal 6 (Saliba, 32, Saka, 41-pen, 63, Gabriel 44, Trossard 45+2. Rice 65). P W D L F A Pts Liverpool 24 16 6 2 55 23 54 Man City 23 16 4 3 56 25 52 Arsenal 24 16 4 4 53 22 52 Tottenham 24 14 5 5 51 36 47 Aston Villa 24 14 4 6 50 32 46 Man Utd 24 13 2 9 33 33 41 Newcastle 24 11 3 10 51 39 36 West Ham 24 10 6 8 36 42 36 Brighton 24 9 8 7 43 40 35 Wolves 24 9 5 10 37 39 32 Chelsea 23 9 4 10 38 39 31 Fulham 24 8 5 11 33 39 29 Bournemouth 23 7 6 10 31 44 27 Brentford 23 7 4 12 34 39 25 Crystal Palace 23 6 6 11 26 40 24 Nottm Forest 24 5 6 13 30 44 21 Luton 23 5 5 13 33 45 20 Everton 24 8 5 11 26 32 19 Burnley 24 3 4 17 25 50 13 Sheff Utd 24 3 4 17 22 60 13 CHAMPIONSHIP: Coventry 2 Millwall 1. Top 6 P W D L F A Pts Leicester 31 24 3 4 66 24 75 Southampton 30 19 7 4 60 35 64 Leeds 31 19 6 6 55 26 63 Ipswich 30 17 9 4 55 40 60 West Brom 30 14 7 9 43 29 49 Coventry 31 12 11 8 48 35 47 LA LIGA: Getafe 3 (Mayoral 41, Mata 45+2, 89) Celta Vigo 2 (Larsen 71, Allende 85), Mallorca 2 (Sanchez 48, Muriqi 90+1) Rayo Vallecano 1 (Garcia 76), Sevilla 1 (Romero 15) Atletico Madrid 0, Barcelona 3 (Yamal 14, 81, Lewandowski 63) Granada 3 (Sanchez 43, Pellistri 60, Miquel 66). Top 6 P W D L F A Pts Real Madrid 24 19 4 1 52 15 61 Girona 24 17 5 2 52 29 56 Barcelona 24 15 6 3 50 33 51 Atletico 24 15 3 6 45 26 48 A. Bilbao 23 13 6 4 42 21 45 Real Betis 24 9 11 4 28 25 38 SERIE A: Bologna 4 (Beukema 5, Orsolini 27, 49, Odgaard 82) Lecce 0, Fiorentina 5 (Belotti 16, Ikone 19, Quarta 43, Gonzalez 53, Barak 85) Frosinone 1 (Mazzitelli 66), Genoa 1 (Malinovskyi 51) Atalanta 4 (De Ketelaere 22, Koopmeiners 55, Zappacosta 90+10, Toure 90+13), AC Milan 1 (Hernandez 25) Napoli 0, Monza 0 Verona 0. Top 6 P W D L F A Pts Inter Milan 23 19 3 1 55 12 60 Juventus 23 16 5 2 36 14 53 AC Milan 24 16 4 4 47 27 52 Atalanta 23 13 3 7 44 23 42 Bologna 23 10 9 4 33 22 39 Roma 24 11 5 8 42 30 38 BUNDESLIGA: Stuttgart 3 Mainz 1, Hoffenheim 1 Cologne 1. Top 6 P W D L F A Pts B. Leverkusen 21 17 4 0 55 14 55 Bayern 21 16 2 3 59 22 50 Stuttgart 21 14 1 6 49 27 43 B. Dortmund 21 11 7 3 43 26 40 RB Leipzig 21 11 4 6 46 28 37 E. Frankfurt 21 8 8 5 31 25 32 FRENCH LIGUE 1: Le Havre 0 Rennes 1, Toulouse 1 Nantes 2, Clermont 1 Brest 1, Lorient 2 Reims 0, Montpellier 1 Lyon 2, Nice 2 Monaco 3. Top 6 P W D L F A Pts Paris SG 21 15 5 1 51 18 50 Nice 21 11 6 4 22 14 39 Monaco 21 11 5 5 40 30 38 Brest 21 10 7 4 30 18 37 Lille 21 9 8 4 29 17 35 Lens 21 10 5 6 27 20 35 AFRICA CUP OF NATIONS (FINAL): Nigeria 1 Ivory Coast 2. RESULTS & STANDINGS Ng Tze Yong. – BERNAMAPIX
theSun is published and printed by Sun Media Corporation Sdn Bhd (221220-K) of Lot 6, Jalan 51/217, 46050 Petaling Jaya, Selangor. Tel: 03-7784 6688 Fax: 03-7783 7435 • Tel (Editorial): 03-7784 6688 Fax: 03-7785 2624/5 Email: [email protected] • Tel (Advertising): 03-7784 8888 Fax: 03-7784 4424 Email: [email protected] SCAN ME TUESDAY | FEB 13, 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 ERIK TEN HAG praised Scott McTominay as an example for others after the super sub sealed Manchester United’s belief-boosting win at fellow Champions League hopefuls Aston Villa. Yesterday’s clash between fifth and sixth at Villa Park began with Rasmus Hojlund – the winner when these sides met on Boxing Day – scoring in his fifth straight Premier League match. United lost their way after that 17th-minute opener in a bright start and Villa eventually secured a deserved second-half leveller through Douglas Luiz. But the Red Devils dug deep and McTominay made it 2-1 in the 86th minute after meeting Diogo Dalot’s cross with a powerful header – his fourth Premier League goal this season from the bench. “This season, last season as well (McTominay made an impact), so I think he’s an example for many other players nowadays,” Ten Hag said of a player whose overall top-flight goal tally this term is seven this term. “There are not many players who can come from the bench and bring this energy. He’s ready for every minute, always contributing to the team. Football is a team sport and we forget that often. “But Scott is the example, always giving the spirit, in the week when he is training, doing the right things, working on himself, gives max. “He’s ready for one minute, he’s ready for 90 minutes, he’s always ready. I think it’s great to have such a player.” United rode their luck for large parts and Ten Hag appeared to indicate that Luiz’s shimmy goalscoring celebration fuelled his side in a win that breathes new life into their Champions League hunt. The Red Devils are now five points behind Villa in fifth, and six adrift of fourth-placed Tottenham. “I think we can beat any opponent away or home,” the Dutchman said after winning a first Premier League away game to a top-eight side since taking charge. “But sometimes away we have to believe it more because then we could have won in Arsenal, where actually we deserved to win. “We could have won in Liverpool and it’s about belief and I think this team today believed they could win this game and that’s why I think, in the end, you win the game.” Asked about the impact of this result on the race for Champions League football, Ten Hag said: “We have to catch up. “We are firstly in February, many games to play, but we are returning. But, still, a long way to go and we have to improve our game. But, of course, we are pleased that we get a series of wins.” This was the first time this season that United have managed to win four consecutive matches in all competitions, while they remain unbeaten in 2024. As for Villa, boss Unai Emery felt hard done by after his side slipped to a third straight home defeat in league and cup. “I want to tell you I am very proud of our work,” the Spaniard said. “I’m very proud as everything we planned before we more or less were doing on the pitch. “We were focused on a very good opportunity to make a big gap to them, but of course no win (for us). “We know how difficult this match was. Manchester United in the moment they are now and the last matches they won being confident. “But we had control of the game, we created more chances than them, we deserved it more than them, we conceded less chances than them. “They were clinical today, their goalkeeper was fantastic and we weren’t clinical. “We played, maybe along with the match against Manchester City here, the best match here this season. “Even from when we arrived here today, I think it was one of the best matches we’ve played but the result was not good and we have to accept it.” – The Independent █ BY SIMON PEACH Great Scott! Ten Hag says McTominay an example to others after match-winning cameo Manchester United’s Scott McTominay (right) and Rasmus Hojlund celebrate at the end of their Premier League match against Aston Villa. – AFPPIX