The Sun - 04 Jun 2024

Malaysian Paper www.thesun.my RM1.00 PER COPY RM1 TUESDAY JUNE 4, 2024 SCAN ME No. 8536 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195) Group wants action against teacher, headmaster and all involved in incident that caused 11-year-old boy to be classified as PwD due to nerve damage. Report on — page 3 Govt to focus on adoption of measures in line with ongoing efforts to facilitate creation of disaster-resilient cities, says works minister. Report on — page 4 Move aimed at enhancing ability of law enforcement personnel to deal with criminals using sophisticated technology: DPM Report on — page 5 Report on — page 2 Birthday Birthday wishes for King or King Sultan Ibrahim obliging requests for wefies during a surprise visit yesterday to a nasi lemak restaurant in Kampung Baru, Kuala Lumpur. – PIC FROM SULTAN IBRAHIM SULTAN ISKANDAR FACEBOOK PAGE Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Cabinet ministers send greetings to His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim and entire royal family to be blessed with good health, prosperity and sovereignty. Call to penalise perpetrators in ‘sun torture’ of pupil Environmentally friendly master plan to curb floods Plan to provide cops with more advanced equipment

TUESDAY | JUNE 4, 2024 2 Unity govt to field PKR candidate in Sungai Bakap GEORGE TOWN: All parties in the Penang unity government yesterday unanimously agreed that a PKR candidate will represent the coalition in the Sungai Bakap state by-election. Penang Pakatan Harapan (PH) chairman Chow Kon Yeow said the decision was made at the state Unity Government Leadership Consultative Council meeting. “We will contest the Sungai Bakap byelection by fielding a unity candidate. The council decided that PKR would field the candidate based on the spirit that the party which contested the seat previously be fielded again this time around. “We will go into the by-election in the spirit of togetherness and unity that was forged in the general and state polls in Penang last year and based on this spirit, we will try to win back the Sungai Bakap seat, which was previously held for three terms by PKR,” he told a media conference at Wisma DAP. Chow, who is also Penang chief minister, said Penang PKR State Leadership Council deputy chairman Datuk Mohamad Abdul Hamid has been appointed Sungai Bakap by-election director while four deputy directors from the coalition parties would be announced later. Chow also explained that the other coalition parties, namely DAP, Umno representing Barisan Nasional (BN) and Parti Amanah Negara (Amanah) were not competing to field a candidate and instead pledged to work hard and cooperate to convey the message of unity to the people, thus helping to win the seat. The Sungai Bakap state seat fell vacant following the death of its incumbent Nor Zamri Latiff on May 24 due to stomach inflammation. The Election Commission (EC) will hold a special meeting on Thursday to discuss the important dates for the by-election. Meanwhile, Penang PKR State Leadership Council chairman Nurul Izzah Anwar confirmed the party has submitted the names of five candidates to the top leadership for a final decision. “The important thing is that we take into account not only names that are considered very influential within the community but also those who have contributed currently and in the past,“ said the PKR vice-president. Also present at the meeting and media conference were state Umno Liaison Committee chairman Datuk Musa Sheikh Fadzir, state Amanah chairman Muhammad Faiz Fadzil, state DAP secretary Lim Hui Ying and Mohamad, who is also deputy chief minister I. In related news, Penang PAS commissioner Muhammad Fauzi Yusoff said the party is currently fine-tuning the list of potential candidates for the by-election, before submitting it to the party leadership. He said although Penang PAS already had a list of potential candidates, they were still open to receiving input from all levels, including grassroots members. “Whether there will be a candidate from the family of the late Nor Zamri Latiff, we have to wait and see. However, the shortlisted candidates need to be reviewed from various angles, including the personality of the candidates, which is why we are taking some time to finalise the list,“ he said when contacted by Bernama yesterday. In the state election last August, Nor Zamri, who was also Nibong Tebal PAS president, defeated PH candidate Nurhidayah Che Rose with a majority of 1,563 votes. Based on EC records for the 2023 state polls, the Sungai Bakap state constituency has 38,409 voters, with 59.36% Malays, 22.54% Chinese, 17.39% Indians and 0.71% others. PM, ministers extend birthday greetings to King KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim congratulated His Majesty the King of Malaysia Sultan Ibrahim on His Majesty’s official birthday yesterday. Anwar, on behalf of the unity government, wished for the King, Queen and the entire royal family to remain blessed with good health, prosperity and sovereignty. “May His Majesty remain steadfast in ruling fairly and equitably as the country’s head of state, and guardian of Islam as well as a symbol of unity and well-being of all races in this country,” he said in a post on his Facebook page. “I and all the people will continue to obey and remain loyal to the constitutional monarchy institution. Dirgahayu Tuanku!” he said. Meanwhile, ministers, through their respective social media pages also congratulated the King. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and his family wished for Sultan Ibrahim to reign with full sovereignty, a long life and always be blessed by Allah SWT. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof wished for His Majesty to continue to reign with greatness, sovereignty, prosperity, justice and equity. oAnwar sends wishes for His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim to remain steadfast in ruling fairly as country’s head of state, guardian of Islam and symbol of unity “We, all Malaysians, pray that His Majesty the King will always be blessed.” Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil also sent congratulatory messages on the official birthday of Sultan Ibrahim. “Thank you from me and all the people of the Communications Ministry and the Office of the Lembah Pantai MP. Long live the King.” Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Legislation and Institutional Reforms) Azalina Othman Said wished for Allah SWT to extend the life of Tuanku and for the King to always be in His care and mercy, Bernama reported. Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek wished for Allah SWT to extend His Majesty’s life and bless the government under his reign. Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu expressed wishes for Allah SWT to bestow long-lasting health and prosperity on Their Majesties, the King and the Queen and the entire royal family. Malaysian delegation in UAE for joint cooperation meeting PUTRAJAYA: Deputy Foreign Minister Datuk Mohamad Alamin will lead the Malaysian delegation to the first meeting of the Joint Committee for Cooperation (JCC) between Malaysia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in Abu Dhabi today. The Foreign Ministry said yesterday the organisation of JCC is in line with the elevation of Malaysia-UAE relations to the level of Strategic Partnership since September 2022. The first JCC Malaysia-UAE meeting will be co-chaired by Mohamad and UAE Minister of State Ahmed bin Ali Al Sayegh. A total of 16 strategic cooperation areas between the two countries will be discussed, including defence, banking and finance, health, renewable energy, education, the halal industry, and science and technology. Mohamad is also scheduled to pay a courtesy call on UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Their discussions will focus on MalaysiaUAE bilateral relations as well as regional and international affairs, particularly the situation in the Middle East and Palestine. The UAE is Malaysia’s second-largest trading partner, the second-largest export destination and the second-largest import source from the West Asian region. In 2023, Malaysia’s trade with the UAE increased by 5.4% to RM39.63 billion compared with RM37.6 billion the previous year. – Bernama Centre growth of nation on essence of Islam, Muslims urged SHAH ALAM: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has urged Muslims in the country to make Malaysia a Madani nation that is centred on the strength, spirit and essence of Islam. He said the country’s development must not only be achieved and driven by new discoveries but also be rooted in the strength of Islamic faith and morals. “And as our shared responsibility, let’s live by increasing the sincerity of al-amal lillahi taala and at the same time, embrace this spirit in our daily lives.” He was speaking during the Darul Ehsan Berselawat event in conjunction with the Turath Islami Festival Selangor at the Shah Alam Stadium on Sunday. Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari and former Grand Mufti of Egypt Prof Dr Ali Jum’ah were present at the closing ceremony, which was attended by about 50,000 people. The festival, held from May 26, aimed to revive the turath, or the study of classical Islamic texts in the daily lives of Muslims. Anwar called on Muslims to embody and practise the spirit of Islam in all circumstances and places. He said such efforts must come from a sincere conscience, be it at home, school, office or when carrying out duties in ministries or as government officers. He also thanked Amirudin and the Selangor government for their initiative in organising the event, thus invigorating the determination of Muslims to appreciate and honour Prophet Muhammad PBUH. – Bernama Anwar and Ali Jum’ah (left) at the event in Shah Alam yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC

TUESDAY | JUNE 4, 2024 3 ‘Hold perpetrators in pupil punishment case accountable’ PETALING JAYA: A group of child rights activists have called for the teacher, headmaster and any authority involved in the case of an 11-year-old pupil being forced to stand under the sun for nearly three hours on April 30, to be held accountable. The boy, who suffered heatstroke as a result of the incident, has since been diagnosed with a nerve condition, making him a person with disability. Their opinion piece on CodeBlue, an editorially independent programme of the Galen Centre for Health and Social Policy, was signed by consultant paediatrician and child-disability activist Datuk Dr Amar-Singh H.S.S., Medico-Legal Society of Malaysia president Shanti Abraham, CRIB Foundation co-chairmen Srividhya Ganapathy and Ajeet Kaur, Voice of the Children’s Sharmila Sekaran, Yayasan Chow Kit’s Datuk Dr Hartini Zainudin, Amy Bala of the Malaysian Association of Social Workers and Childline Foundation’s Datin P.H. Wong. They said the reckless act of endangering a child’s life, resulting in oReckless act tantamount to child abuse unacceptable as it resulted in permanent damage to school boy: Activist group █ BYSIVANISVARRY MORHAN [email protected] Intervention measures cut number of SPM dropouts TAIPING: Intervention measures have been used continuously to deal with the dropout problem involving Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) candidates. Deputy Minister of Education Wong Kah Woh said the persuasive move is to create awareness of each candidate on the importance and advantages of sitting for the examination. “Basically, we have conducted intervention measures before the candidates sit for the SPM exam, including giving advice and counseling. “The effort has shown results and the number of candidates who did not sit for the exam has been successfully reduced by 1.2% compared with last year,“ he said after officiating at the closing ceremony of the Malaysia International Muay Championship (Mimac) here on Sunday night. On May 27, Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek confirmed that the ministry will carry out intervention measures to detect dropout candidates, and give them the opportunity to register for SPM again. Earlier, a total of 10,160 out of 383,685 new SPM 2023 candidates were reported to have not taken the examination. Meanwhile, Wong said he believes that with the help of all parties, including parents, intervention measures could help reduce the dropout problem on a larger scale . “It’s not just up to the government. “We all need to play a part in encouraging children to sit for this exam,” he said. Wong also acknowledged that social media influence is one of the main causes of the dropout problem. On Mimac, he said the tournament had successfully attracted 240 participants from 120 teams involving 12 countries including Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Iran, Laos and Afghanistan. He added that the main purpose of the competition is to help unearth new talents as well as develop the sport in the country. – Bernama Organise more programmes to honour women: Deputy minister KUALA LUMPUR: As pillars of the family institution, women should be honoured and appreciated for their sacrifices, with more award programmes organised for this purpose, said Women, Family, and Community Development Deputy Minister Datuk Seri Dr Noraini Ahmad. “We welcome all parties, including the government and NGOs, to organise programmes that recognise the sacrifices of women. “They are a source of inspiration, especially for the younger generation, and their contributions are invaluable,” she said during the Inspirational Mothers Gala Night organised by Mingguan Wanita and Nona on Sunday. The event was also graced by the Sultanah of Terengganu Sultanah Nur Zahirah and her daughter Tengku Puteri Daulath Raja Tengku Fatimatuz Zahra Al-Wathiqu Billah Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin. Twelve women were honoured as recipients of the Inspirational Mothers Award at the event, aimed at celebrating mothers who have made significant contributions and serve as an inspiration to society. One of the recipients, Tana Letchumy Muthoo, expressed gratitude for the recognition of her role as a homemaker and raising her four daughters. “I am touched that this programme appreciates the value of homemakers like me. Being a homemaker is not easy, it requires a high level of sacrifice and patience,” said Tana, who is the mother of well-known social media doctor Dr Santhi Santherasegapan. Another recipient, Zeeda Aziz, a bone cancer survivor for the past 16 years, was deeply moved that her challenging life journey could inspire other women. “Everything I do is for my four children. I keep moving forward so they can be proud of having a strong mother,” said Zeeda, who lost a leg to the disease. Several local actresses, including Bella Astillah and Datuk Fauziah Nawi, were also among the recipients of the award. The event was attended by about 300 women and featured performances by veteran singer Salamiah Hassan, her daughter Atilia Haron and Mila Jirin. It was co-organised by Al Kauthar Eduqids. – Bernama 100,000 book vouchers redeemed KUALA LUMPUR: Over 100,000 book vouchers have been redeemed in the three-day period since redemptions began on May 31, Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek said. She added that 56,466 vouchers were redeemed by Year Four pupils and above as well as secondary school students, while the remaining 50,000 were redeemed at the Higher Education Ministry level. “Over 122,000 books have been purchased involving sales of over RM600,000. This shows that the vouchers can be a catalyst to spur interest (in reading), and parents had taken the opportunity to ensure their children benefited from the vouchers,” she said at the 2024 Kuala Lumpur International Book Fair here on Sunday. Redemptions of the vouchers are accepted until Dec 31. – Bernama UNIQUE DRAW ... A visitor taking photos of one of the displays at the Museum Negara Japanese Cultural Exhibition. Among the activities at the event are a cosplay competition and demonstrations. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUN permanent harm, must not go unpunished and is tantamount to child abuse. While the group thanked police for its involvement in the case, they said: “We have seen no move by the Education Ministry, Welfare Department or the Health Ministry since the pupil was diagnosed.” They said amid the severe heat wave, the authorities, including the education and health ministries, have issued advisories to halt all outdoor activities during extreme heat, and to monitor activities that may expose schoolchildren to hot weather conditions to ensure their health remains unaffected. “There is no doubt the incident constitutes child abuse, which comes in many forms. It is wholly unacceptable when individuals, in positions of trust who are within the systems that are meant to nourish, educate and care for children, perpetrate it. “There must be regular audits, mandatory reporting of any incidents, and swift disciplinary action against those who fail to comply,” the group said. They also urged the education minister to disclose the policy on acceptable child correction and steps for handling a child in need of correction. The group emphasised the need to ensure teachers and childcare providers are well-trained, resourced and held in high standards. On May 29, Malaysia-Singapore Workers Task Force chairman S. Dayalan convened a press conference with the victim’s parents B. Suresh and A.D. Mogahana Selvi. They highlighted three warning letters the school allegedly sent to the boy’s parents regarding his absence from May 2 to May 23 while he was receiving medical treatment. Dayalan said throughout that time, neither the school management nor the Education Ministry discussed with his parents the issue of the boy being forced to stand under the sun. Ampang Jaya police chief Mohd Azam Ismail had previously said the police have completed its investigation and submitted the case papers to the deputy public prosecutor’s office for further action. Speaking to theSun, Amar-Singh said the question of whether corporal punishment is necessary for schoolchildren is up for debate. “While some argue that it is an effective deterrent for misbehaviour and maintains discipline in the classroom, we contend that it is unnecessary and harmful. “Those in favour of it often point to its immediate impact in curbing undesirable behaviour. However, the potential long-term psychological effects can lead to increased aggression, lower self-esteem and resentment towards authority figures.” Amar-Singh said there are alternative disciplinary methods, such as positive reinforcement that are more effective in promoting positive behaviour and creating a supportive learning environment. “The legal and ethical concerns surrounding corporal punishment have led many countries to outlaw its use in schools,” he said.

TUESDAY | JUNE 4, 2024 4 Govt to adopt drainage master plan to curb floods SINGAPORE: The Works Ministry will focus on the adoption of the Environmentally Friendly Drainage Master Plan to address issues in flood-prone urban areas as part of an ongoing effort by the government to create disaster-resilient cities. In his address at the World Cities Summit (WCS) opening plenary, its minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi said the land-use planning in state structure and local plans will be aligned with the master plan towards improving the drainage system in urban areas to curb major floods. “Disaster-resilient cities are a vital aspect of urban development, especially in countries prone to natural disasters such as Malaysia. oMove part of ongoing effort to build disaster-resilient cities that are vital aspects of urban development, says works minister HOUSEHOLD NECESSITIES ... Visitors browsing kitchen ware yesterday at the Home Living Exhibition in Mid Valley Megamall, Kuala Lumpur. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUN SPM students urged to apply for Khazanah scholarships KUALA LUMPUR: Yayasan Khazanah is inviting recent Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) students to apply for its Khazanah Scholarship programme. However, the deadline to submit applications is tomorrow. A spokesman for Yayasan Hasanah said Yayasan Khazanah, which is its strategic partner, has been entrusted with nurturing and supporting extraordinary Malaysians. “They are the ones who will ultimately take up leadership roles in the country’s top organisations, including government-linked companies in the future,” she said, adding that scholarships under three categories are being offered. █ BY JOSHUA PURUSHOTMAN [email protected] Sabahans encouraged to go cashless RANAU: Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor is encouraging Sabahans to adopt cashless payments to simplify transactions, promote the use of the latest technology and boost the local economy. He said the state government is implementing various initiatives to promote cashless payments for state revenue collection, including payments for licences, permits and public services. He also said the initiatives include the Sabah Pay app, launched by the state Credit Corporation and the latest initiative, You Only Need One. “Cashless transactions offer many benefits such as easier, faster and safer payment methods. “The initiatives not only simplify daily transactions but also address long-standing issues such as the lack of ATMs in rural areas. “To ensure cashless payments benefit all citizens, both the state and federal governments are committed to provide the necessary communication infrastructure,” he said at the launch of the Tamu Kundasang E-Duit Desa Cashless Community on Sunday. Hajiji said to align with the initiative, efforts to speed up the completion of 398 telecommunications towers were being implemented across the state through the National Digital Network Plan. “These efforts by the state government are aimed at enhancing the well-being of the people and demonstrate our commitment to bringing development and progress. “Adopting digital payments can lead to an efficient and transparent economy. Agrobank’s ongoing efforts to introduce cashless payment services in Sabah are appreciated.” – Bernama Kelantan aims for Gua Musang to be economic centre GUA MUSANG: Kelantan is set to make Gua Musang one of its economic centres due to its strategic position and connectivity to Kuala Lumpur, Perak and Terengganu. State Deputy Menteri Besar Datuk Dr Mohamed Fadzli Hassan said the move was in line with the state government mission to develop a number of new towns that function to change the economic landscape in the area. He said Gua Musang is one of the most rapidly developing districts and has a good strategic route for a stopover before going to Kuala Lumpur and Kota Bharu. “We also want to develop several new towns, including Tunjong, Tok Bali, Lojing and the Gua Musang urban area,” he said after officiating at the G-Orange Supermarket in Bandar Utama yesterday. Mohamed Fadzli said the economic situation will improve after the construction of the Central Spine Road is completed and the district will be the focus because of its location in the state. – Bernama “Investments in resilient infrastructure and early warning systems, including community engagement, are key to building the capacity of a city to withstand and recover from disasters.” Alexander said the government has also implemented various initiatives and policies to enhance resilience, including the Disaster Risk Reduction Strategic Plan developed by Kuala Lumpur City Hall, that entails upgrading crucial infrastructure to withstand potential disasters, Bernama reported. He said under the purview of the ministry, the National Construction Plan 2030 (NCP 2030) was introduced as a 10-year policy formulated to mirror its full commitment in facilitating sector players to become more agile and competitive in developing a sustainable infrastructure. He also said Thrust Two of the NCP 2030, one of the four strategies highlighted the development of quality, reliable, sustainable and resilient infrastructure, that is fundamental to establishing a resilient city. Alexander is in Singapore to lead the Malaysian delegation at the WCS and Asia Infrastructure Forum 2024, to be held for three days starting Monday. The biennial WCS is an exclusive platform for government leaders and industry experts to address liveable and sustainable city challenges, share integrated urban solutions and forge new partnerships. He is scheduled to meet Singapore National Development Minister Desmond Lee. The Khazanah Global Scholarship will support A-Level studies in preparation for further undergraduate degrees across various fields at the World’s Top 50 Universities based on the QS World University Ranking. She said the Khazanah Watan Scholarship will support foundation studies across various fields at selected local universities. “And finally, we have the Wakalah PayNet-Yayasan Khazanah Scholarship, which will support Malaysian Muslim B40 students who have completed their SPM and International General Certificate of Secondary Education. “The scholarship will support their undergraduate foundation and degree studies in Information Technology, Computer Science, Finance and other related courses at selected local universities.” She said apart from funding their educational expenses, the Yayasan Khazanah scholarship programme also hones personal development and leadership. In 2023, Yayasan Khazanah awarded 115 scholarships to extraordinary individuals in Malaysia as well as 200 study grants for secondary school students. This brings the total number of Khazanah Scholarships awarded since 2006 to 1,495. “Applicants must have strong leadership skills, participated in extracurricular, social or voluntary activities, and accomplished consistent and outstanding academic achievements.” Established in 2006 by Khazanah Nasional Berhad, Yayasan Khazanah’s mission is to select, support, groom and nurture exceptional individuals capable of leading the best organisations in the country and around the world. It offers full scholarships under its programmes to study at premier universities in the US, UK, Australia and Malaysia. Apart from financial support, an integral feature of the Khazanah scholarship initiative is the Yayasan Khazanah Premier Scholars Programme. This is a structured development programme to help enhance the holistic development of its scholars. Students are also exposed to the business world through business and civic internships. For further eligibility information and to apply for the scholarship before the deadline tomorrow, please visit www.yayasankhazanah.com.my. First underground dam to be built in Langkawi SUNGAI PETANI: The decision to build an underground dam in Langkawi was made after a study conducted by federal government agencies, said Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor. He said the construction of the underground dam was one of the initiatives proposed by the National Water Research Institute to address the domestic water supply issues faced by residents. “The study confirms an underground dam can be built on the island because there are two hills and only one section needs to be blocked to store water for use. “An agency has already conducted a study and it is now in the final stages of implementation,” he said on Sunday. He said if the underground dam project, based on a similar project in Japan, is successful, it will be the first of its kind to be built in the country. – Bernama

TUESDAY | JUNE 4, 2024 5 One killed, two hurt in car crash SIBU: A woman was killed and two others were injured on Sunday night when the car they were travelling in crashed into a guardrail along Jalan Kelupu-Julau-Durin, 2km from the Julau Flyover. Bintangor Fire and Rescue station chief Nicholas Belulin said the deceased Eveely Emilya Epah, 22, was the front passenger while her husband Wilson Ajut, 25, was the driver and sustained injuries to his left hand and passenger Linda Ujang, 19, fractured her left leg. He said an emergency call was received at 10.15pm and a team was dispatched to the location. He added that upon arrival, the team found a woman trapped in the front passenger seat and the driver had managed to save himself, after which the rear passenger was rescued by firefighters. The team also extricated the deceased from the crushed vehicle using special equipment before handing the body to police for further action. The incident is said to have occurred while the trio were travelling from Betong in the southern part of Sarawak to Song, Kapit in the central part of the state. – Bernama Johor records 420 commercial crimes JOHOR BAHRU: A total of 423 cases involving commercial crime and losses totalling RM15.6 million were recorded in Johor throughout May. State police chief CP M. Kumar said the numbers have increased from 273 cases and losses totalling RM6.88 million recorded in May last year. He said cases of fraud were the highest contributor, recording 373 cases and the greatest total losses reported this year. “The fraud cases include 101 cases of online purchases, 65 non-existent transactions, 42 phone scams, 45 non-existent loans and 42 involving other crimes,” he said in a statement. Kumar said his team was committed to continuously carrying out commercial crime awareness campaigns face to face as well as through social media. The public is advised to be vigilant and aware of trends in commercial crime to avoid becoming victims of fraud, in addition to obtaining information related to the modus operandi of commercial crime schemes through the Commercial Crime Investigation Department (CCID) official accounts, such as @cybercrimealert and @JSJK PDRM on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. “We also suggest the public use the CCID infoline and Semak Mule service before making any payment.” – Bernama Cops seek duo who threw vase at station KUALA LUMPUR: Apparently displeased at being reprimanded for riding motorcycles without helmets, two drunken persons allegedly threw a pottery vase at the Serdang police station on Sunday morning. District police chief ACP A.A. Anbalagan said no one was hurt in the 6.30am incident. He said two men on a motorcycle stopped at the station and when a policeman on duty approached them, the pillion rider threw the vase at the station before they fled. “The motive seems to be unhappiness following a 2.30am incident in which a policeman reprimanded a group of men on motorcycles for not wearing helmets at a traffic light intersection about 20m from the station.” He said police are searching for the culprits and the case is being probed under Section 427 of the Penal Code for mischief, Bernama reported. He urged those with information to contact the Serdang police headquarters at 03-8074 2222. Govt mulls more advanced equipment for police BAGAN DATUK: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said despite the increasing efficiency of enforcement operations, police need more advanced equipment to address crime. He said criminal activities have evolved and police should be provided with better equipment to stay ahead of irresponsible individuals who use sophisticated technology to commit crime. “Technology has changed rapidly and criminals are also using it. In this regard, police must have the upper hand to eliminate crime,” he said at a press conference after launching the operation of the Bagan Datuk district police headquarters in Hutan Melintang on Sunday, adding that organised, cross-border and cyber crime must be eradicated. “The use of AI (artificial intelligence) and IoT (Internet of Things) are among the important elements that should be provided to police.” Ahmad Zahid, who is also Bagan Datuk MP, said Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail would be looking into how China’s Public Security Ministry could assist police during his upcoming visit. He said although Malaysia cooperates with police in other countries, China is among the countries that have advanced equipment and technology in the field of security. “The establishment of a single border agency is one of the solutions to address various forms of border crime. It also involves various agencies and coordination is essential. “God willing, a specific Act will be made for this single border agency, and I hope security issues will remain a priority for our country,” oUsing artificial intelligence and Internet of Things would give cops advantage over individuals who use sophisticated tech to commit crime, says Zahid said the former home minister. He also said trials for face recognition CCTV have been implemented in a district in Johor but not yet extended to the whole country, Bernama reported. After the launch, Ahmad Zahid, who is also Rural and Regional Development minister, officially opened the Parit 23 Community Hall in Tanjung Bayan. In his welcome speech, Perak police chief Datuk Seri Mohd Yusri Hassan Basri said the headquarters unofficially started operating on March 16 with 267 positions. He said the Hutan Melintang police station, which was completed in 2012, was chosen as a temporary operational centre for the headquarters because of its suitability. “A budget of RM2 million for the acquisition of 10 acres of land for the construction of the new headquarters was approved under Rolling Plan 4 of the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP). “Police have submitted a request for the construction cost, estimated at RM200 million, under Rolling Plan 5 of 12MP.” Mohd Yusri said the Bagan Datuk office is the 16th district police headquarters in Perak. Second sun bear caught in Kelantan village TANAH MERAH: The Kelantan Wildlife Protection and National Parks Department said a male sun bear was caught in Kampung Air Asahan Hulu on Sunday, less than a week after a female sun bear was trapped in the same orchard. Department director Mohamad Hafid Rohani said the animal was caught by its Jeli staff after a May 29 complaint by villagers about a bear roaming an orchard. “After receiving the complaint, our staff went straight to the location and installed a trap to catch the animal. “The bear entered the trap, to the relief of villagers, who will not face any more losses due to the destruction of agricultural produce and property.” According to him, the bear was the second one caught in the same village as the female was caught on May 28, Bernama reported. While there may be concerns among wildlife conservationists on where to release the male bear, Mohamad Hafid said its relocation to a suitable and safe habitat would be carried out soon by the department’s Jeli unit. “The capture and relocation of the bears is not a long term solution as the village is close to the Air Satan Nature Reserve, which is a habitat for wildlife.” Sun bears breed throughout the year and are promiscuous. When a male suitor trails a prospective mate from a distance, the female bear may run away. RUGGED RECREATION ... Rock climber Soo Lin Chian scaling a cliff face yesterday at the Gua Damai Extreme Park in Batu Caves, a popular destination for tourists and extreme sports enthusiasts. – BERNAMAPIC

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Box 179, Jalan Sultan, 46720 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan Attn: Subscription Email: [email protected] *Terms & Conditions apply Important note: SMCSB reserves the right to revise the price at any time without prior notice. Pay to Maybank ( Account number 508177700420 ) Account name ( SUN MEDIA CORPORATION SDN BHD ) Nov 8 to Nov 10 Malaysian Paper www.thesun.my RM1 WEDNESDAY NOV 8, 2023 No. 8389 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195) SCAN ME Casino chip heist: Five more identified Police have detained a total of 10 suspects, including a Chinese national, in connection with the RM4.6m theft at Genting Highlands on Oct 28. Congratulations! You are holding the first edition A new sunrise of our new 32-page paper featuring more of the great content you have loved for the past 30 years. Copies will be free until Friday and will be available via subscription and at newsstands beginning Monday for only RM1. Muruku Buntong entrepreneur’s Deepavali snack, made from a still a national favourite 60-year-old recipe, is constantly in high demand. Chicken price float benefits consumers A week after subsidies ended, market prices are competitive and lower than subsidised prices, says expert. Full report —on page 3 Full report —on page 6 Full report —on page 4 Citing protection of country’s interests in terms of diplomatic, economic relations and security as reasons for joining meeting, Anwar says he remains steadfast in defending justice and rights of Palestinians. I will show up at Apec Story on page 2 Full story -on page 2 SCAN TO SUBSCRIBE Subscribe now for Monday-Friday copies of theSun newspaper only per copy 1 year subscription at normal price RM258* (258 issues) + RM50 administration fee to get 2nd year free *Special ofier for June 2024 only @thesundaily FOLLOW ON TWITTER Malaysian Paper Sarawak chef strikes gold in Russia KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian cuisine was a big hit at an international culinary competition in Kazan, Russia, with dishes inspired by a young Sarawakian chef winning a gold medal, and the all-time favourite nasi lemak emerging as the best selling item at the event. The competition was part of the XV Russia-Islamic World KazanForum 2024: International Economic Forum of Russia and Organisation of Islamic Cooperation held from May 14 to 19. Muhammad Aiman Saiful Anuar clinched the gold medal in the View Without Borders category at the Young Chefs International Culinary competition. He is a culinary art lecturer and a student pursuing a Masters degree in International Hospitality Management at the UCSI University Faculty of Hospitality and Tourism Management. The chef from Miri said the dishes oCulinary art lecturer wins approval of judges with nasi lemak and other Malaysian fare at international competition Artistes association raises over RM100,000 at charity concert KUALA LUMPUR: The “Legends Charity Dinner” concert held at Dewan Perdana Felda on Sunday night managed to raise funds of more than RM100,000. The event, organised by the Malaysian Artistes Association (Karyawan), featured performances from several renowned artistes, including Datuk Khadijah Ibrahim, Rahimah Rahim, Datuk Ramli Sarip and Datuk Awie. Karyawan president Datuk Freddie Fernandez said the concert was aimed at raising funds to assist veteran artistes facing life difficulties, including illness and disabilities that require consistent support. “I do not have the exact amount yet, but I am sure the collection has exceeded the target after all 100 tables were sold. I am very thankful for the overwhelming support, which is beyond expectations. This is Karyawan’s first concert since the Covid-19 outbreak in our country. With a strong lineup of singers, many came to show their support to ensure the welfare of artistes is taken care of.” Apart from table sales, funds were also raised through the purchase of local instant noodle brand Vit’s, Ramen Asam Laksa, that was launched in conjunction with the concert. – Bernama he prepared were inspired by the rich culinary heritage of the Land of Hornbills, Bernama reported. The winning dishes were umai udang (a prawn-based dish), fish in percik sauce, ayam bergedil dan serunding (chicken cutlets and floss), acar jelatah (a type of pickle) and sambal (chilli and prawn paste). He complemented his spread with a dessert unique to Sarawak, sagu gula apong (sago with nipah palm sugar syrup) with mango puree, diced mango and coconut foam, with tebaloi (Melanau sago biscuit). His trainer, Asst Prof Chef Mohamad Fadzly Che Omar, who is also deputy dean of the faculty and a Sarawakian himself, was there as well to lend a helping hand. Muhammad Aiman said Sarawak fare was chosen for the competition as it represented many of Malaysia’s natural flavours, such as umai udang, that uses serai (lemongrass) and bunga kantan (ginger flower bud). Mohamad Fadzly, who is also Gastronomy Association of Malaysia deputy president, said he and Aiman did some research on Russian palate preferences before preparing the menu. Other Malaysian delights offered at the Malaysian food booth at the event included unleavened bread with salmon tartare as an appetizer, a main dish of nasi lemak with prawn sambal, pickled radish, carrot and cucumber as a salad, sagu gula Melaka with mango as dessert, as well as hot masala tea. All these were offered in bento boxes and were quickly sold out during the three-day event. Another bento box of Malaysian cuisine included a salad made of shrimp, mango, tomato, avocado and kimchi sauce, with braised veal and mashed potato with coconut, sagu gula Melaka dessert and masala tea. Vegans and vegetarians were not forgotten. A bento box was specially presented with pickled radish, carrot and cucumber salad, nasi lemak with marinated tofu, cucumber and peanuts, sagu gula Melaka dessert and masala tea with coconut milk. Gastronomy Association of Malaysia president Chef Rossham Rusli, who was also team leader and a judging member, expressed delight over the overwhelming response to Malaysian cuisine, with over 100 bento boxes sold daily, describing the feat as a “tsunami sale”. The World Platform of Islamic Countries Culinary Societies secretary-general also said some ingredients to prepare Malaysian dishes for sale in Kazan were sourced locally while some were brought from Malaysia. The executive chef at Nilai Springs Resort Hotel said some adjustments and local ingredients were utilised to suit the Malaysian dishes according to the Russian taste buds. For example, the nasi lemak sold in Russia was cooked using the rice used in risotto instead of rice from Malaysia, while the shrimp used for sambal udang was sourced in Russia. Masala tea was chosen as the add on drink due to the unavailability of tea dust and condensed milk similar to the ones available in Malaysian while for sagu gula Melaka, a local version of the sago was used.

TUESDAY | JUNE 4, 2024 7 Modi alliance set to win big, exit polls show NEW DELHI: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led alliance is projected to win a big majority in the general election that concluded on Saturday, TV exit polls said, suggesting it would do better than expected by most analysts. Most exit polls projected the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) could win a two-thirds majority in the 543-member lower house of parliament, where 272 is needed for a simple majority. A two-thirds majority will allow the government to usher in farreaching amendments in the constitution. A summary of five major exit polls projected the NDA could win between 353 and 401 seats, a oOpposition leaders dismiss projections HK arrests eighth person for Tiananmen social media posts HONG KONG: Police here arrested an eighth person over social media posts about commemorating Beijing’s 1989 Tiananmen Square crackdown yesterday, the eve of the bloody incident’s 35th anniversary. The arrest was the latest in a series of law enforcement actions taken since last Tuesday against a group that was accused of publishing “seditious” online posts. The group was the first nabbed under Hong Kong’s “Safeguarding National Security Ordinance”, the city’s second national security law, enacted in March following another security law imposed by Beijing in 2020. The police said the eighth person arrested was a 62-year-old man, who was suspected of committing an “offence in connection with seditious intention” – the same offence the first seven were arrested under last week. It carries a penalty of up to seven years in jail under the new security law. Among those arrested last week was Chow Hang-tung, a prominent activist who led the now-disbanded Hong Kong Alliance that once organised annual vigils to mark the Tiananmen Square crackdown. Jailed since 2021, Chow is already serving a more than 30-month jail sentence over other charges, including “unauthorised assembly” for her attempt to publicly commemorate the anniversary. Hong Kong’s security chief said last week the group made online posts that “were trying to incite disaffection and distrust against the central government, the Hong Kong government and the judiciary”. Six of them have been released on bail and subject to a “movement restriction order”, according to the police. Hong Kong used to be the only place under China’s rule where public commemoration of Beijing’s deadly clampdown on prodemocracy demonstrators in Tiananmen Square on June 4, 1989, was allowed. The three-decade tradition has been banned since 2020, when Beijing imposed the first national security law on the financial hub to quell dissent following huge, and sometimes violent pro-democracy protests the year before. Over the weekend, a weekly newspaper pulled its front-page article about the 35th anniversary, explaining in an editorial that Hong Kong’s society has “become more restrictive”. A university students’ publication axed its campaign to collect people’s recollections of the crackdown due to “factors we cannot resist”, according to a post on its official social media page. – AFP Demonstrators holding posters outside the UK Parliament in London on Sunday. Nusantara – REUTERSPIC authority head and deputy resign JAKARTA: The head and deputy head of Indonesia’s new capital city authority, who oversaw the US$32 billion (RM151 billion) project, have resigned, the state secretariat minister said yesterday. The resignations come ahead of President Joko Widodo’s planned celebration at the new capital, called Nusantara, on Indonesia’s Independence Day on Aug 17. “The president has appointed the public works and housing minister and deputy agrarian minister as the acting head and deputy head,” said State Secretariat Minister Pratikno. The two officials had been assigned to speed up construction of the new capital, he said. No reason for the resignations was provided. Bambang Susantono, a former official at the Asian Development Bank who headed the project, was not available for comment. Dhony Rahajoe, an architect and former real estate developer, who was the deputy head of authority, also did not respond to a request for comment. The resignations comes amid a lack of private funding for the ambitious new capital being built in Kalimantan. The government has been racing to build the infrastructure required for the relocation of the first batch of 12,000 civil servants this September. But the plan has been twice delayed, raising doubts about Jokowi’s signature project. – Reuters B R I E F SS. KOREA TO SUSPEND DEAL WITH NORTH SEOUL: South Korea will fully suspend a 2018 tension-reducing military deal with nuclear-armed North Korea, the South’s National Security Council said yesterday, after Pyongyang sent hundreds of trashfilled balloons across the border. Seoul partially suspended the agreement last year after the North put a spy satellite into orbit, but the NSC said it would tell the Cabinet “to suspend the entire effect of the ‘Sept 19 Military Agreement’ until mutual trust between the two Koreas is restored”. In the last week, Pyongyang has sent nearly a thousand balloons carrying garbage including cigarette butts and likely manure into the South, in what it says was retaliation for missives bearing anti-regime propaganda organised by activists in the South. South Korea has called the latest provocation from its neighbour “irrational” and “low-class”. – AFP STRONG EARTHQUAKE HITS CENTRAL JAPAN TOKYO: A strong magnitude 5.9 earthquake yesterday shook the area of central Japan that was hit by a devastating jolt in January, the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) said, but there was no threat of a tsunami. Three houses collapsed but there were no reports of deaths or injuries, the Fire and Disaster Management Agency said after the shallow quake struck the Noto Peninsula at 6.31am (5.31am in Malaysia). Public broadcaster NHK showed footage of at least one home thrown askew with badly damaged walls and the tiled roof of part of the building having crashed to the ground. No abnormalities were detected at the KashiwazakiKariwa or Shika nuclear plants, Japan’s Nuclear Regulation Authority said. – AFP number that is likely to boost financial markets. The NDA won 353 seats in the 2019 general election, of which BJP accounted for 303. Three of the five polls projected BJP alone could win more than the 303 it won in 2019. The opposition “INDIA” alliance led by Rahul Gandhi’s Congress party was projected to win between 125 and 182 seats. Exit polls, which are conducted by polling agencies, have a patchy record in India as they have often got the outcome wrong, with analysts saying it is a challenge to get them right in the large and diverse country. In his first comments after voting ended, Modi claimed victory without referring to the exit polls. “I can say with confidence that the people of India have voted in record numbers to re-elect the NDA government,” he said on X, without providing evidence of his claim. “The opportunistic INDIA Alliance failed to strike a chord with the voters. They are casteist, communal and corrupt.” Pre-election surveys said the BJP would easily keep its majority in the election. But the party ran into a spirited campaign by the “INDIA” alliance, sowing some doubt about how close the race might be, and many political analysts had predicted the BJP’s margin of victory would be narrower than or close to the 2019 tally. The opposition dismissed the exit polls, and ahead of their publication had called them “prefixed”. Most opposition parties accuse India’s main news channels of being biased in favour of Modi, charges the channels deny. They also say exit polls in India are mostly unscientific. “This is a government exit poll, this is Narendra Modi’s exit poll,” said Supriya Shrinate, the Congress party’s social media head. “We have a sense of how many seats we are winning, it will not be one seat less than 295,” she said. Nearly one billion people were eligible to vote in the seven-phase election that began on April 19 and was held in scorching summer heat in many areas. The Election Commission will count the votes today and results are expected the same day. A victory for Modi, 73, will make him only the second prime minister after independence leader Jawaharlal Nehru to win three consecutive terms. Modi began his re-election campaign by focusing on his achievements over the last 10 years but soon switched to mostly targeting the Congress. The opposition has largely campaigned on affirmative action programmes and saving the constitution from what they call Modi’s dictatorial rule, an allegation the BJP denies. – Reuters

TUESDAY | JUNE 4, 2024 8 /theSunMedia FOLLOW ON YOUTUBE Malaysian Paper Lunar probe could return with key data BEIJING: China’s Chang’e-6 lunar probe looks set to begin its historic journey back to Earth from the Moon’s far side after collecting samples that scientists expect will help answer key questions about the early evolution of the solar system. Chang’e-6, named after the mythical Chinese moon goddess, was launched on May 3 from the southern Chinese island province of Hainan. The fully robotic probe landed on Sunday in a previously unexplored location in a gigantic impact crater called the South-Pole Aitken Basin, on the side of the Moon that permanently faces away from Earth. James Carpenter, head of the European Space Agency’s lunar science office, said the samples collected by the Apollo missions from the Moon’s near side suggested the South-Pole Aitken Basin on the far side was caused by an epoch of extremely heavy bombardment of the solar system, Earth and Moon. “This is a really core event in the history of the whole solar system, but there is some controversy about whether it happened or not,” he said. “To understand that, you need to anchor those events, and that’s going to be done with samples from the lunar far side from the SouthPole Aitken Basin.” After landing, Chang’e-6 had a 14-hour window to drill, excavate, and seal 2kg of material, with the goal of being the first probe to bring back such samples from the Moon’s far side. “Once it gets dark, once the sun goes over the horizon, the mission has to end, so there is a limited time window between landing, getting those samples, and getting off the surface again, so it’s quite an exciting mission because it has to be done quickly,” said Carpenter. The Chang’e-6 samples will be transferred and sealed on a rocket booster atop the lander, which will launch back into space, dock with another spacecraft in lunar orbit and transfer the samples. A landing in China’s Inner Mongolia is expected around June 25. – Reuters B R I E F SWASHINGTON POST EDITOR STEPS DOWN WASHINGTON: The executive editor of the Washington Post, Sally Buzbee, has abruptly stepped down from the role, as the iconic newspaper undergoes major restructuring. Assuming the job in 2021, Buzbee was the first female editor of the Post in 150 years. Her departure is part of the biggest move yet by publisher and CEO William Lewis since he took over in January. Matt Murray, the former editor-in-chief of the Wall Street Journal, is assuming the executive editor position through November’s US presidential election. There was no reason given for the departure of Buzbee, a former top editor of the Associated Press. Lewis said he aims to launch “a new division of the newsroom” this year. It will focus on “service and social media journalism”, while making use of AI. – AFP GUATEMALA COPS RECLAIM PRISON FROM INMATES GUATEMALA CITY: Police on Sunday transferred more than 200 gang members from a prison where they operated a call centre for criminal purposes and raised chickens. Some 400 police were involved in the operation to move 225 members of the Barrio 18 gang out of the prison, where they enjoyed access to luxuries as TV sets and fridges. “The prison once again belongs to the country,” said Interior Minister Francisco Jimenez. He vowed the facility would be stripped down and rebuilt as a maximum security prison. Images showed the inmates even had air conditioning at the prison in Escuintla, some 70km south of the capital. The minister blamed “previous governments” for “handing over control of prisons to criminals”. – AFP Landslide win for Mexico first woman president MEXICO CITY: Claudia Sheinbaum was elected Mexico’s first woman president by a landslide on Sunday, preliminary official results showed, making history in a country plagued by rampant criminal and genderbased violence. Crowds of flag-waving supporters sang and danced to mariachi music in Mexico City’s main square celebrating the ruling party candidate’s victory. The 61-year-old former Mexico City mayor, a scientist by training, won around 58- 60% of votes, the National Electoral Institute announced after a quick count. That was more than 30 percentage points ahead of her main opposition rival Xochitl Galvez, and some 50 percentage points ahead of the only man running, long-shot centrist Jorge Alvarez Maynez. Voters had flocked to polling stations across the Latin American nation, despite oClaudia Sheinbaum calls her victory ‘historic’ sporadic violence in areas terrorised by ultraviolent drug cartels. Thousands of troops were deployed to protect voters, following a particularly bloody electoral process that has seen more than two dozen aspiring politicians murdered. Earlier, Sheinbaum hailed what she called a “historic” election day. After casting her ballot, she revealed she had not voted for herself but for a 93-year-old veteran leftist, Ifigenia Martinez, in recognition of her struggle. “Long live democracy!” Sheinbaum declared. After the polls closed, Galvez urged her followers to closely monitor the count. “We are competing against authoritarianism and power and they are capable of anything,” said the 61-year-old senator and businesswoman with indigenous roots. Mexican women going to the polls had cheered the prospect of a woman breaking the highest political glass ceiling in a country where around 10 women or girls are murdered every day. “A female president will be a transformation for this country, and we hope that she does more for women,” said Clemencia Hernandez, a 55-year-old cleaner. “Many women are subjugated by their partners. They’re not allowed to leave home to work,” she said. Daniela Perez, 30, said that having a woman president would be “something historic”, even though neither of the two main candidates was “totally feminist” in her view. “We’ll have to see their positions on improving women’s rights, resolving the issue of femicides – which have gone crazy – supporting women more,” said the logistics company manager. Reina Balbuena, a 50-year-old street food seller, said she voted for Sheinbaum because the ruling Morena party “has given a lot of support to older adults, to children”. Nearly 100 million people were registered to vote in the world’s most populous Spanishspeaking country, home to 129 million people. As well as choosing a new president, Mexicans voted for members of Congress, several state governors and local officials – a total of more than 20,000 positions. – AFP MI6 recruited state workers to spy for UK, says China BEIJING: China yesterday accused Britain’s Secret Intelligence Service (MI6) of recruiting a couple who worked for the central government to spy for the UK, adding to months of mutual espionage allegations between Beijing and Western powers. The State Security Ministry said in a post on its official WeChat that MI6 operatives convinced a man surnamed Wang, who worked in a “core confidential role” in the central state apparatus, to defect along with his wife, surnamed Zhou. “Recently, after careful investigation, the national security organs uncovered a major espionage case in which the British Secret Intelligence Service (MI6) instigated a couple, Wang and Zhou, who were staff members of a central state agency of China, to defect,” it said. The ministry said British spies began cultivating Wang after he began a course of study in the UK in 2015, arranging dinners and tours for him to “understand his character weaknesses, interests and demands”. After learning that Wang “had a strong desire for money”, they then approached him to provide well-paid consulting services that came to involve the internal workings of central state agencies, the ministry said. MI6 personnel later revealed their identities to Wang and directed him to return to China to collect intelligence, convincing him to coerce Zhou into doing the same. The ministry said it had gathered evidence and taken “decisive measures” against Wang, adding that the case was under further investigation. The statement gave no details of Wang or Zhou’s occupations in China, the nature of the information they provided, or their whereabouts. AFP has contacted Britain’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, which handles MI6 press enquiries, for comment. China and Western powers have long traded accusations of spying but only recently started to disclose details of alleged individual cases. Last month, British police said Matthew Trickett, who had been charged with helping the semi-autonomous Chinese city of Hong Kong to gather intelligence in the UK, had been found dead in unexplained circumstances. – AFP WET DAYS ... Residents wade through a flooded street after heavy rains in Malwana on the outskirts of Colombo on Sunday. – AFPPIC

TUESDAY | JUNE 4, 2024 9 Mediators press Israel, Hamas to agree on truce proposal RAFAH: Fresh strikes were reported in the Gazan city of Rafah early yesterday, as mediators urged Israel and Hamas to agree to a truce and hostage release deal outlined by US President Joe Biden. Since Biden spoke at the White House on Friday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has insisted Israel will pursue the war, now nearing its ninth month, until it has destroyed Hamas and freed the captives taken during the Oct 7 attack. Hamas has said it “views positively” what Biden described as an Israeli proposal. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken called Israeli war Cabinet member Benny Gantz and Defence Minister Yoav Gallant to discuss the deal, the State Department said in a pair of statements on Sunday night. In the calls, Blinken “commended” Israel on the proposal and “emphasised that Hamas should take the deal without delay”. Netanyahu, a hawkish political veteran leading a fragile right-wing coalition government, is under intense domestic pressure from two sides. Protesters backing an immediate hostage release want him to strike a truce deal, but his far-right allies are threatening to bring down the government if he does. Meanwhile, fighting has continued to rock Gaza, with Israel’s military reporting air strikes and ground combat. Gaza’s European hospital reported late on Sunday that three people were wounded in a strike on a neighbourhood in northern Rafah, while eyewitnesses reported multiple injuries and deaths in a strike early yesterday on a home west of the city. Netanyahu said on Saturday that “Israel’s conditions for ending the war have not changed: the destruction of Hamas’s military and governing capabilities, the freeing of all hostages and ensuring that Gaza Palestinians inspecting the damage yesterday after an Israeli strike in Nuseirat, in the central Gaza Strip. – AFPPIC oNetanyahu under pressure to end war Rainforest NGO set up in memory of British reporter BRASILIA: Two years after poachers murdered British journalist Dom Phillips in a remote corner of the Amazon, an NGO has been created in his memory to promote the protection of the rainforest he loved and its people, his widow said. Phillips, 57, was working on a book on how to save the Amazon when he and his Brazilian travel partner were shot dead by poachers next to the Javari Valley, home to isolated tribes on the border with Peru. “If people could see the beauty and potential of the Amazon, and the wisdom of its indigenous people, they would naturally want to protect the Amazon biome,” he’d say after his trips into the rainforest, according to his widow Alessandra Sampaio. “The Dom Phillips Institute will be a platform to broadcast the voices of the Amazon people around the world, to give them visibility and also give them security,” she said on Sunday. Phillips, who wrote for the The Guardian as well as the Washington Post, was travelling with Bruno Pereira, an expert on isolated indigenous groups who was working to expose environmental crimes in the Javari Valley. On June 5, 2022 they were shot dead while leaving the area. Their dismembered bodies were located in the forest after a fisherman confessed to the crimes The Javari Valley is home to the world’s largest number of isolated indigenous communities, as well as cocaine-smuggling gangs and illegal hunting and fishing rackets. Police said the murders were planned by a gang leader because Pereira was investigating and photographing illegal fishing, causing losses to the criminal group. Four people have been charged with homicide and concealment of bodies. “The investigation is advancing well. I am confident that justice will be done,” Sampaio said by telephone. Beto Marubo, an indigenous leader from the Javari Valley, said the NGO will continue the work of “a journalist who did his best to draw attention to environmental policies and the destruction of the Amazon”. A group of journalists collaborated to complete Phillips’ unfinished book How to Save the Amazon: Ask the People Who Know. It highlights the work of those who live there and shows how best to protect and regenerate the rainforest. The book will be published in April 2025 by Manilla Press, an imprint of publisher Bonnier Books. – Reuters Zelenskey thanks Marcos for support MANILA: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskey met Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr in Manila yesterday and thanked him for his support and “clear position” on Russia’s invasion of its territories. The two leaders met at the Philippine presidential palace, after Zelenskey made an unscheduled appearance at Asia’s biggest security conference in Singapore on the weekend. “Thank you for this invitation and we are very thankful to be in your country which supports Ukraine, our territorial integrity and sovereignty,” Zelenskey told Marcos. “Thank you so much of your big word, and clear position about us, about this Russian occupation of our territories.” Ukraine will also open an embassy in Manila this year, Zelenskey said. He addressed the last day of the Shangri-La Dialogue forum, asking for support and participation at a summit in Switzerland planned for June 15-16 aimed at bringing peace to his warravaged nation. Marcos delivered the keynote address at the forum, criticising illegal and coercive actions in the South China Sea, without naming China. Marcos told Zelenskey he was “honoured” the Ukrainian leader visited Manila. “It’s a great pleasure to meet and to discuss common issues,” Marcos said. Russia has not been invited to the summit in Switzerland and China has confirmed it will not attend. – Reuters B R I E F SAIR STRIKE KILLS12 FIGHTERS IN SYRIA BEIRUT: At least 12 pro-Iranian fighters were killed in an overnight Israeli strike that targeted a factory near Aleppo in the north of Syria. “Twelve proIranian fighters of Syrian and foreign nationalities were killed in an Israeli air strike on a position in the town of Hayyan, north of Aleppo, setting off strong explosions in a factory,” said the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights yesterday. The NGO based in Britain, which has a vast network of sources inside Syria, said rescuers and firefighters were deployed to the site to treat the injured and contain blazes. It said Hayyan is “controlled by proIranian groups”. Israel has carried out hundreds of strikes on its northern neighbour since the outbreak of Syria’s civil war, mainly targeting army positions and Iranbacked fighters. – AFP BODY OF PARAMEDIC FOUND NEAR FARM TEL AVIV: The Israeli military said yesterday it had found the body of an Israeli paramedic who until now was believed to have been held hostage in Gaza but was killed in the Oct 7 attack. The body of Dolev Yehud, 35, was located in Nir Oz kibbutz, which came under attack during the bloody raid on on Oct 7. “During the attacks, Dolev left his house in an attempt to save lives. His body was located in Kibbutz Nir Oz,” the military saidin a statement, without specifying when exactly his remains were found. Until now Yehud was believed to be held hostage in the Gaza Strip. His sister Arbel Yehud is held captive. – AFP no longer poses a threat to Israel”. Mediators the United States, Qatar and Egypt later said they called “on both Hamas and Israel to finalise the agreement embodying the principles outlined by President Joe Biden”. White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told ABC News on Sunday that “we have every expectation that if Hamas agrees to the proposal, as was transmitted to them – an Israeli proposal – that Israel would say yes”. According to Biden, Israel’s threestage offer would begin with a sixweek phase that would see Israeli forces withdraw from all populated areas of Gaza and an initial hostageprisoner exchange. Israel and the Palestinians would then negotiate for a lasting ceasefire, with the truce to continue as long as talks are ongoing, Biden said, adding it was “time for this war to end”. Netanyahu took issue with Biden’s presentation, insisting that according to the “exact outline proposed by Israel” the transition from one stage to the next was “conditional” and crafted to allow it to maintain its war aims. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, leaders of the two extreme-right parties in parliament, warned they would leave the government if it endorsed the truce proposal – potentially costing Netanyahu’s coalition its majority. But opposition leader Yair Lapid, a centrist former premier, said the government “cannot ignore Biden’s important speech” and vowed to back Netanyahu if his far-right coalition partners quit. “I remind Netanyahu that he has our safety net for a hostage deal,” Lapid said on X. Defence Minister Gallant, who has criticised Netanyahu over the lack of a post-war plan for Gaza, said on Sunday that Israel was “assessing a governing alternative” to Hamas. Heavy fighting has flared in Gaza’s far-southern Rafah city, where Israel sent tanks and troops in early May, ignoring international concerns for displaced civilians. The UN agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA, said on Sunday that all 36 of its shelters in Rafah “are now empty”, after at least a million people fled the city. “The humanitarian space continues to shrink,” UNRWA said, adding that about 1.7 million people were now sheltering in southern Gaza’s main city of Khan Younis and in central areas. Witnesses said Israeli helicopters struck central Rafah on Sunday, also reporting air raids and shelling in other parts of the city. – AFP

TUESDAY | JUNE 4, 2024 10 Unlocking benefits of sustainable palm oil for skin, body care IN today’s world, many of us tend to look for products that can help make us look good and stay healthy, and one ingredient stands out for its remarkable benefits: sustainable palm oil. Derived from the fruit of oil palm trees, this versatile oil is not only a staple in many kitchens but also a key ingredient in numerous skincare products. Palm oil’s versatility as an aid for internal health and external beauty makes it an indispensable part of a holistic wellness regimen. For those concerned about heart health, sustainable palm oil offers a compelling benefit in reducing cholesterol levels. A study published in the National Library of Medicine suggests that “palm oil does not have an incremental risk for cardiovascular disease” when consumed as part of a balanced diet. By incorporating an appropriate amount of sustainable palm oil into your diet, you can enjoy its rich, buttery flavour while supporting your heart health. Beyond its culinary uses, sustainable palm oil is a superstar in skincare. Palm oil can deeply nourish the skin and create a protective barrier against environmental pollutants, making it invaluable when used as an ingredient in skin cream. When applied topically, palm oil can help restore hydration and prevent further dryness by sealing in moisture. This is particularly beneficial for sensitive skin, which can easily become irritated by harsh weather conditions and pollution. Those suffering from skin conditions such as eczema and Bridget Menezes, an icon of happiness and inspiration THE passing of Datuk Bridget Menezes (pic) on May 24, came as a shock to many who knew her well. As a self-empowerment guru and author, she was the doyen of high society in the early nineties up to 2019, a much sought-after speaker, popular for her ability to bring laughter and happiness wherever she went, with her ready smile and a twinkle in her eye. Her weekly column in theSun, “Be Light” ran for 10 years and was original in every way, as it showed a pathway to happiness, improving mental health and living a life of harmony. It came at a muchneeded time when people were searching for pathways to happiness through meditation or yoga. Her transformation from a hip-swinging mini-skirted piano teacher, who taught for over 40 years, was much loved by her students for her unorthodox yet disciplined method of teaching, which endeared her to students and parents. It was Paul Menezes, her youngest son who introduced her to the spiritual world of Brahma Kumaris, through a meditation course in 1988, and it forever changed her, as she was amazed by the transformation and the inner calm that it brought her. When she walked into theSun office in 1999, she was the epitome of positivity, and everyone was in awe of her aura of happiness and disposition. As a young feature writer on the Culture and Lifestyle desk, I was assigned to take charge of her articles, and eventually, she earned a weekly column, which proved popular with readers. That marked the beginning of our long friendship, which spanned more than 20 years and left an indelible mark on my life. One of her traits is her ability to appeal to all segments of society, whether it was a Datuk, a Tan Sri, a Datin or a maid with marital problems – they all found her endearing and helpful. As a vegetarian, she and her husband, Freddy Menezes would whip up creative meals and her house was elegant and minimalist. As a much soughtafter speaker on radio and television, she was also invited to mentor beauty pageant participants. Her services as an empowerment speaker were also in demand at forums and conferences. Her trademark smile and white coiffured hair became her branding, and droves of VIPs lined up at talks and conferences to listen to the magic of meditation, and her popularity grew. Her lasting legacy, her book on Self-Empowerment, published in 2004, made it to the bestseller list and remains a collection of stories that could be used as a daily guide to who we are and what we do. Rest in peace dear Bridget, and thank you for inspiring us when we needed it most. Dharshini Ganeson Petaling Jaya Equitable Islamic governance THE current government is at a pivotal moment in its promise to champion comprehensive reforms. With a focus on justice, equality and inclusivity, it is time to infuse true Islamic practices into the heart of its agenda. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s active participation in social and Islamic events underscores his dedication to these values. Yet, translating this commitment into a transformative governance model that fully aligns with Islamic principles remains a work in progress. Importantly, incorporating Islamic principles in governance does not mean emulating the political systems of current Arab nations, which often diverge from the true values and teachings of Islam. Instead, Malaysia should draw inspiration from the Rashidun Caliphate and the era of the Prophet Muhammad, where governance was characterised by justice, equality and inclusivity as prescribed by the Quran and the Hadith. The Rashidun Caliphate stands as a beacon of accountability, transparency and a profound commitment to the welfare of all citizens. Caliph Umar’s era, in particular, is noted for progressive policies such as social welfare systems, public infrastructure projects and the protection of minority rights. These initiatives were directly inspired by Islamic teachings, emphasising leaders’ responsibilities to serve their people justly and equitably. Similarly, the Medina Charter from the time of Prophet Muhammad established a pluralistic society where Muslims, Jews and other religious groups coexisted peacefully, with mutual obligations. This document highlights the Prophet’s vision of a cohesive society built on principles of justice and respect for diversity. Islamic governance ensures that all individuals, regardless of race or religion, are treated equally under the law. This approach can address socioeconomic disparities, fostering a more inclusive society where everyone has equal opportunities. Comprehensive social welfare systems can support the needy, reduce poverty and ensure access to basic necessities for all. Incorporating Islamic economics into Malaysia’s governance promises numerous benefits. Prohibiting interest ensures fairness in transactions, directing investment towards productive ventures for sustainable growth. Wealth distribution through zakat and sadaqah establishes robust social welfare, reducing poverty and fostering stability. Islamic finance mechanisms such as profit-sharing agreements stimulate entrepreneurship, driving innovation and job creation. Ethical conduct and accountability in economic activities will enhance investor confidence, attracting sustainable investment. Furthermore, Islamic principles advocate for sustainable resource management, aligning economic policies with environmental stewardship for long-term prosperity. The government has faced challenges in gaining the trust of Malay voters. Emphasising the adoption of true Islamic practices can reassure voters of the government’s commitment to Islamic principles. This move is also an integral part of the broader reform agenda, showcasing a dedication to ethical governance and the protection of Islamic values. Incorporating Islamic practices into governance does not mean enforcing religious conformity. Instead, it involves applying universal ethical principles that resonate with the core values of many cultures and religions. The government has a unique opportunity to redefine governance in Malaysia by integrating authentic Islamic practices. This approach not only honours the nation’s Islamic heritage but also upholds the principles of inclusivity and fairness, ensuring that every Malaysian, regardless of their background, benefits from a just and transparent government. The writer is a strategic communicator in the cutting-edge technology industry and has been in the public sector for more than a decade. Comments: [email protected] “Islamic governance ensures that all individuals, regardless of race or religion, are treated equally under the law. This approach can address socioeconomic disparities. COMMENT by Dr Nur Khaisiyah Othman LETTERS [email protected] psoriasis can find relief in sustainable palm oil. Its soothing properties can calm inflamed skin, reducing redness and discomfort. The oil’s rich nutrient profile, including vitamins A, C and E as well as beta-carotene, enhances its healing power. These vitamins are crucial antioxidants that fight free radicals, which are notorious for causing premature ageing. Sustainable palm oil is a potent anti-ageing ally. The vitamins and antioxidants present in the oil combat free radicals, which are one of the primary culprits behind fine lines and wrinkles. By reducing the oxidative stress on skin cells, palm oil helps maintain a youthful and vibrant complexion. When it comes to palm oil’s use in the cosmetic industry, the Cosmetics, Toiletries and Perfumery Association, a UK trade association, said the best alternative to palm oil is sustainable palm oil. Major makeup and cosmetics brands have embraced sustainable palm oil. Beauty giant Estee Lauder has similarly built a platform highlighting its efforts around ethical, sustainable palm oil for beauty. Credo Beauty has taken a public stance on a range of ingredients sold in products it retails, including palm oil, where it feels that the solution is not to prohibit palm oil but to create a clear demand for sustainably produced palm oil. L’Oreal noted on its website that it believes in “taking sustainable palm oil sourcing one step beyond”. As a result of its continued action, the company has earned top ranking in the World Wildlife Fund’s palm oil buyer’s scorecard. Whether a product has been reformulated to remove palm oil or whether a product boasts about being “Palm Oil Free” on its label, what this means, in reality, is that the product now uses a blend of other vegetable oils such as sunflower, soy or coconut oil instead. Globally, palm oil supplies between 35% and 40% of the world’s vegetable oil demand with just under 6% of the land used to produce all vegetable oils. To get the same amount from alternative oils such as soybean, coconut or sunflower oil, you would need between four and 10 times more land, which would shift the problem to other parts of the world and threaten other habitats, species and communities. On top of that, producing palm oil takes significantly less amount of fertiliser, pesticides and energy inputs. Choosing sustainable palm oil is crucial as it is produced with respect for the environment and local communities. By opting for products that use certified sustainable palm oil, consumers can enjoy its benefits without contributing to environmental degradation. In Malaysia, the Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil certification is made mandatory for palm oil plantations, smallholders and palm oil processing factories to ensure that all aspects of palm oil production adhere to sustainable practices and promote environmental conservation and social responsibility. Comments: [email protected] COMMENT by Ashraff Hussni

11 TUESDAY | JUNE 4, 2024 Considering succession plan for Lunga I N my previous column, I mentioned that Lever Solomons Ltd had a big plantation on Guadalcanal around the airport. The area grew smaller as the government took over more land. The Seventh Day Adventists bought some areas for its church and training school, and C o m m o n w e a l t h D e v e l o p m e n t Corporation had a trial plot, which eventually led them to start a big oil palm plantation on the plains by the sea. Some of the areas were not accessible. Hell’s Point was fenced off because an underground bomb storage blew up for three days soon after the war, but many bombs did not go off. From time to time, workers would find them and lay them under a tree. They looked like hot water flasks and green with age. The police would come to blow them up, a thing they were used to doing. This area was near the landing site of the American troops that landed at Red Beach and fought their way to take the airfield the Japanese had built. Many tanks did not reach the shore, and more were stopped at various stages among the lines of coconut trees. The wounded received treatment in the underground hospital in a maze of tunnels. The Japanese came back with massive attacks which failed. At the airport, the American army had put up a memorial of their men who had died. The Japanese had built theirs near Bloody Ridge, overlooking the sea. When I arrived, I saw that the palms grew well on the plains of Lunga. Nearby were the rice fields sown by Brewers by air from America. Not far along the road was Foxwood, the sawmill owned by an Australian company. Even the planter, formerly from Sime Darby in Malaysia, Laurie Jones, had settled and planted cocoa. The expatriates would often gather at the Tenaru Club, which had been there for some years. They would trade stories, although some had been heard before but repeated in the evening in the quiet atmosphere of the bar. There were mild earthquakes that made the light bulbs sway, and all would tighten their grip on their glasses. Sometimes, everyday worries would be shared. I listened to the experiences of these expatriates, and then I would drive the few miles back to Mendana Hotel in Honiara. I had my worries too. From my room, I would book a call to my home in Kluang. I had to wait some time to get a line, and when at last the operator put me through, I listened to my wife Maznah on how she coped at home and taught at school. I don’t think she shared all her problems with me. They were likely the same as any planter’s family would face during his absence. My progress at work was not always an unalloyed joy. The children were all right but would do better if I was present, and Maznah was not well some of the time. She believed it was because she had plucked the lime trees in the clearing at Banika, at the spot of long-gone battles, and without any islanders advising her. Often, I was more worried after I put the phone down. Sometimes with no business in town, I stayed on Lunga at the estate guesthouse, next to the bungalow of the manager, Davidson Fekau. Fekau was a solid support, with a wide girth in brown shorts and shirt and big leather boots, a Polynesian from the remote island of Tikopia. He was the son of a chief and had a commanding presence. He did not talk much and spoke even less in front of strangers but he was observant. One day, he said the Japanese representative in Honiara wanted to see me. “He wants to dig the place where many of the dead Japanese were buried, near Alligator Creek. He said the relatives wanted to take back the bones to let the souls rest in peace.” I went to see the site where the palms were growing tall over a mound on the plains and was moved by what I saw. I told the Japanese visitor when we met that I had no problem with his plan. I turned to Fekau, who nodded his agreement. Reminders of the war existed even under the ground. It was not many weeks later that I had another visitor. I was in the guesthouse after breakfast, trying to be fully awake with coffee and a smoke as I lit my pipe. It was a government minister who I had seen at functions in Honiara but had not spoken to before. He was burly and loud, and I had avoided meeting him. He did not bother to see Fekau. “I am Minister Harper. You have to allow me to dig in your area in Lunga. I can find treasures that the Japanese left behind, which they took from other countries on their way here during the war, mainly gold. I have people who know roughly where these are buried.” I had received many requests before but this was new. He brought in excavators to dig up holes, and I was afraid bombs may go off, with limbs flying around. I could visualise the headlines in the Solomon News Drum. “I am sorry, Sir, but the answer is no,” I told him. Raising his voice, he said: “You must agree. I am a minister. I can deport you.” I thought again. He had just given me an answer to my hopes although he did not know it, but it was a way for me to get back home and rejoin my family. I told him sternly, “The answer is no.” “I will have you deported,” he shouted on his way out. Later that day, I told Fekau about the minister’s visit and what he wanted. Fekau smiled broadly. When he was amused, tears would come to his eyes, but he did not say a word. Back in Banika, I waited for the deportation order from the minister, but it never came. However, I still had to think about the time when I had to leave. Living alone in the big bungalow was not easy. Without a woman’s touch, the household standards gradually dropped. The servant, John Debalemi, lived in the workers’ quarters down the hill and sometimes he came late to work. There were times when the larder ran out of sugar or eggs because he forgot to let me know in advance. Nevertheless, he had a brilliant smile when he broke the news that I had to smile back and forgive him. Things were neglected further when he fell in love with a buxom girl Evelyn, a figure who jumped a lot in the netball team. I had to have a plan to leave, perhaps in a year or two. As usually was the case, the company could not do much if I did not have a successor. I thought of the candidates, and I had my eye on one. The writer has extensive experience in the management of oil palm plantations. Comments: [email protected] Upskilling ageing workforce in modern workplaces AS the workforce demographics evolve and retirement ages extend, HR practitioners and businesses must prioritise upskilling and reskilling initiatives for older employees. What measures and steps should human resources (HR) practitioners and businesses take to prioritise upskilling and reskilling initiatives for older employees as workforce demographics shift and retirement ages rise? It is essential to recognise the valuable experience and knowledge that older employees bring to the table. Leveraging their wealth of expertise can be a strategic advantage for organisations seeking to remain competitive amid the concentrated market. Fostering a culture of inclusivity and appreciating diverse perspectives is among the efforts to ensure that older workers feel valued and respected within the workplace. On the flip side, it does not come as a surprise that it can be challenging for senior workers to be on par with the younger generation in certain aspects such as technology. However, a multigenerational workforce can also present chances for mutual exchange of knowledge if it is done correctly. Regular assessments and development plans Employers should remain open to adopting a flexible and inclusive approach that caters to the diverse needs of their employees. One crucial initial measure is to conduct regular skills assessments to identify areas where older employees may benefit from upskilling opportunities. Fostering an organisational culture of continuous learning is essential for promoting long-term employability, regardless of age. – BERNAMAPIC E STATE MANAGERWRITE S BY MAHBOB ABDULLAH COMMENT by Melissa Norman By understanding their strengths and areas for improvement, businesses can tailor upskilling programmes to meet the specific needs of older workers, enabling them to thrive in their roles and further contribute to the organisation. Moreover, HR practitioners should collaborate closely with managers and team leaders to create personalised development plans for older employees. These plans should consider their career aspirations, learning preferences and any potential barriers they may face in accessing training opportunities. By offering targeted support and guidance, businesses can empower older workers to take ownership of their professional development journey and stay engaged in their roles. Investing in technology and digital literacy Investing in technology and digital literacy training is another critical step in upskilling the ageing workforce in today’s rapidly evolving technology landscape. With the digital economy expected to contribute 25.5% of the country’s gross domestic product by 2025, bridging the knowledge gap and equipping older workers with the skills they need to thrive in a technologydriven environment is crucial. Noting that each generation has distinct learning preferences, it is good to consider flexible learning formats that accommodate the diverse needs and preferences of older employees. This may include online courses, onthe-job coaching or collaborative projects between age cohorts that enable them to develop new skills but also strengthen bonds while balancing other commitments. Fostering culture of continuous learning Fostering an organisational culture of continuous learning is essential for promoting the long-term employability of all employees, regardless of age. While reverse mentoring programmes can be instilled where younger employees mentor older counterparts on emerging technologies, the extensive experience and skillsets possessed by older employees can also be transferred to the young employees. Identifying the area of expertise that can be applied to new challenges or projects, can provide opportunities for young employees to contribute meaningfully while acquiring additional competencies. This will not only facilitate knowledge exchange but also foster intergenerational collaboration and mutual respect within the workforce. By instilling a growth mindset and a commitment to professional development, businesses can create a dynamic and resilient workforce capable of navigating future challenges and opportunities. Bringing it together Upskilling initiatives for older employees are paramount in the modern workplace as workforce demographics shift and retirement ages rise. Businesses must prioritise measures such as skills assessments, personalised development plans and technology training while fostering a culture of continuous learning to ensure the professional growth and development of older workers. By investing in the skills and capabilities of their ageing workforce, businesses can unlock their full potential and drive sustainable growth and innovation in the years to come. The writer is the founder and managing director of Aisling Group, an integrated talent solutions company. Comments: [email protected]

12 EDU NEWS TUESDAY | JUNE 4, 2024 PUBLICATION DATE 3 May 2024 (Friday) BOOKING DEADLINE 26 April, 2024 (Friday) MATERIAL DEADLINE 29 April, 2024 (Monday) Contact now for special deals on digital, video and print advertising. 03-7784 6688 [email protected] 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! Creativity in education WHEN the Ministry of Education (MOE) revealed 11,713 students achieved straight As in the SPM 2023 exams, they also declared it was a better achievement than the results for 2022. While this was a cause for celebration, there was another statistic that provided a cause for concern – 10,160 students were absent from the SPM exams in 2023. Thus, behind the scenes, there is much cause for concern. This preoccupation with academic results continues to be a feature of the Malaysian education system, with many parents waiting anxiously for the release of the SPM results. My question looks at the issues hidden by the purely academic nature of the SPM exams. The global market for education has surpassed purely academic skills and today, public speaking, general knowledge, leadership, the issues of sustainability and climate change have all become issues of 21st century classroom education. But sadly, these issues are not part of the skills taught in most schools and instead, the focus is purely academic. Should Malaysian government schools focus on other aspects of education, which have become equally important, such as the development of soft skills in students involving leadership training, looking at sustainability in terms of waste management, the environment and its preservation and other current issues that would impact their lives? I was recently pleasantly surprised to receive an e-mail from a secondary school that had taken the initiative to organise an environmental and youth leadership summit at an international level, and received the support of the school principal and MOE to carry out a series of activities over five days last month, which included various competitions. The school, SMK (P) Sri Aman in Petaling Jaya, where 16-year-old Raisa Myrin Jasmine, a member of the Sri Aman Environmental and English Youth Leadership Summit (SAEYLS) 2024, together with her committee, organised the summit for the purpose of raising awareness. The participants were from Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, the UK and Bangladesh, with 11 schools from five states in Malaysia. Raisa, who holds the Chair for Publicity said: “SAEYLS was established in 2012 at Sri Aman, and ran as a physical event until the pandemic hit in 2020. Finally in 2024, SAEYLS returns as a physical event, ready to continue our legacy as a prestigious programme for the benefit of not only the school but also to position Malaysia, as a country, where the youth are ready to embrace and take on the challenge of climate change. Its theme “Youth: The Root of Change” aims to unearth, hone and develop the communication skills and abilities of youth. “This is to empower them to lead future communities to be highly conscious of Mother Nature’s state of being, as well as improve the quality of life for all beings on this planet,” she said. The teacher supervisor for the project, Shahirah Nazaruddin, when commenting on the impact of the project, said: “Through this summit, we encourage our students to break out from their shells and discover the hidden potential that lies within them.” According to SAEYLS Organising Vice-Chairperson Anis Batrisyia, 17, the various activities were also designed to encourage the participants to protect the environment by engaging in river clean-up activities, and a trip was made to the Klang River, that is listed as the third most polluted river in Malaysia. Participants from the summit had the opportunity to participate in the clean-up of the river as well as observe the operation of the “Interceptor”, a machine brought in to specifically for the task, due to the high volume of plastic and other forms of waste. Raisa said the activities were also centred on creating awareness, with an environmental competition, English public speaking competition, a tour of mangrove swamps and a briefing on its role in protecting the coast and even a water harvesting workshop, at which participants were introduced to the importance of water harvesting. The SAEYLS environmental competition titled “Nature’s Resilience: Overcoming One Country’s Environmental Challenges” proved to be an eyeopener for the students as they considered issues affecting their own country’s environment. “The English competition, which focused on public speaking, was titled “An Insight on the Significance of Culture” was to recognise that each of the invited countries had a culture of their own and we wanted to share and engage with them on their own culture,” added Raisa. She said one of the main objectives of the summit that was achieved was the friendship and networking between the local and international students, who represented their schools while attending the event in Malaysia. The exchange of information proved valuable and with 71 participants, not including the school community, there was no doubt the students would take home valuable lessons in friendship, knowledge and culture. It was an experience that could not be replicated in a classroom. Shahirah said academia was only one part of studies, whereas students today need other skills to survive and be part of a new eco-system that puts the environment at the top, and learn how to preserve nature and ensure the effects of climate change is minimised. She expressed hope that other schools would organise similar activities that would benefit students in the long term. “Another valuable factor with these types of programmes is the ability of students to learn new life skills such as fundraising, writing to organisations for sponsorship and juggling many activities at the same time as it teaches them multitasking. “Such programmes by students for students serve as a valuable lesson for the whole community. “The curriculum for students at all levels must include programmes that engage and involve students in 21st century learning,” she added. EDUCATION MATTERS BY DHARSHINI GANESON

TUESDAY | JUNE 4, 2024 Editorial T: 03-7784 6688 F: 03-7785 2625 E: [email protected] Advertising T: 03-7784 8888 E: [email protected] SCAN ME Malaysia sees surge in high-value reinvestment growth KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is seeing a surge in high-value reinvestment growth, according to Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan. “Malaysia is actually enjoying reinvestment growth at a big, big pace,” he said at the recently concluded Global Forum on Islamic Economics and Finance. However, Amir Hamzah emphasised that the country aims to prioritise investments that add significant value rather than accepting all forms of investment. “More importantly, Malaysia is actually trying to push that reinvestment into a higher value-added basis, as opposed to just welcome all investments.” The minister pointed to the electronics and electrical sector, including semiconductors, which he said is crucial to Malaysia’s economy. “Going forward, we’ve seen global trends coming. We’ve seen digitalisation coming in a greater form.” Amir Hamzah also highlighted trends related to security due to geopolitical events including global developments that affect international relations and security. “So Malaysia is actually at a very interesting place that is actually beneficiary of a lot of the changing geopolitical trends,” he said. Beyond mere economic expansion, Amir Hamzah also stressed the nation’s commitment to equitable development, focusing on basic needs like infrastructure, education, and healthcare. “How do we make sure that the money is got down to all elements of society and address very, very basic things such as providing good infrastructure, education, health, and removing poverty within the country? So there’s a lot of reform that the country is trying to do to address that so that it builds a much more resilient future, a much more inclusive future.” Moreover, he stressed the importance of sustainable growth as well as stringent measures against corruption to ensure equitable wealth distribution. “In that sustainability, making sure that, as our Prime Minister said earlier, the governance framework within the country must run according to where it needs to be. “Our fight against corruption is fundamental so that we can remove leakages that occur, distortions that occur, and make sure that the wealth of the country actually is evenly distributed to parts of society that actually need it,” he said. He said that by considering all aspects holistically, Malaysia can be strengthened and unified. – by Hayatun Razak CAFEO 42 targets US$10.6m in trade and collaboration PETALING JAYA: A sum of US$10.6 million (RM50 million) is targeted by the Conference of the Asean Federation of Engineering Organisation (CAFEO 42) for its conference, in trade, research and collaborative value between government, academia and industries, as it is seen to be a unique event that combines knowledge, skills and trade. CAFEO 42 is expected to attract 200 exhibitors and 1,500 conference participants from across Asean. The expansive exhibition will provide a unique platform for companies, innovators and researchers to showcase their latest technologies, products and services. █ BYAIMIE SHAZRIE [email protected] Startups thriving thanks to government support CYBERJAYA: Founders of Malaysian startups expressed optimism about the scene’s growth, crediting government support as a key driver. Mechatronic, robotic and IoT (Internet of Things) solutions startup Mindnrobotics COO and founder Shahid Bakar pointed to the government’s efforts to attract investors which has boosted excitement among local startups. “The startup scene is currently thriving. The government is looking into bringing in all quality VCs (venture capitalists) and also investors. We as the startups are really happy about the development. “I emphasise the government in bringing more investors because that is where the pain point is for most of us in order to scale. “So if it can be simplified for us to get the access for funding, that is what we are really looking for,” he told SunBiz in an interview. Commercial landlord listings startup Briqbloq CEO and founder Loh Ming Yaw praised the government’s role in facilitating market access and fostering the startup community. “The Malaysian startup scene is flourishing. We went to the KL20 event, and we managed to meet up with a lot of international VCs and organisations network with a lot of big organisations that we rarely see in this region. And I love how the (from left) Qadir, Loh and Shahid are optimistic about the startup scene’s growth. oGaining access to markets crucial for success, say founders █ BYHAYATUN RAZAK [email protected] government is positioning us, to push the startups.” Loh said gaining access to markets is crucial for their success. He said the government initiatives give them much more reach and make it easier to connect with these networks. “Some of us, we are working a lot with industries that are government or require government intervention. So that will support us as a startup,” he said. He also noted that while the startup community once felt somewhat forced, it is now growing organically. “It’s now much easier to make connections in the industry, which is crucial for the startup ecosystem. “For example, I could be attending an IoT session, and a conversation could spark a new idea. “This growth fosters a healthy startup environment where collaboration naturally occurs,” he added. Meanwhile, Abd Qadir Hairi Abu Hassan, CEO of Solvnex, a startup that links gig professionals with businesses, noted the importance of government infrastructure development for startups but also pointed out the challenges of increased competition. “The government is creating more infrastructure. Before this, there was already a move towards building the startup ecosystem, but now it’s strengthened and built on the foundations of the startups themselves. So whatever happens, we have a good base.” “But it’s not only about bringing in investors; our government is also attracting other startups to Malaysia. “We might think this creates more competition, but in the long run, it will make us more competitive.” Solvnex, which focuses on business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-government (B2G) models, also highlighted the challenges faced, such as the need for a track record or benchmark. “You need some benchmark or you need a track record of at least three years to establish partnerships with government-linked companies or multinational corporations. “We already have the solutions and proof of concepts, but we are still having some difficulties accessing those businesses.” Shahid added on saying that startups need the government or possibly the government-linked companies to act as enablers by using their products as credentials or attractions. “So it will be easier for us to access the market because the question will always come back to who is your client?” he said. The conference, themed “Charting Asean Growth with Digital Transformation, Smart Engineering, and Green Solutions”, will highlight the importance of integrating digital technologies, adopting smart engineering practices and implementing sustainable solutions to drive economic growth and innovation in Asean. Institution of Engineers Malaysia (IEM) president and Asean Federation of Engineering Organisations (AFEO) chairman Prof Jeffrey Chiang Choong Luin, said that by participating in CAFEO 42, engineers will gain a broader perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing the profession. “This will encourage crossdisciplinary collaboration and foster a sense of solidarity among engineers,” he said. The meeting will include various committees focusing on key sectors such as construction, manufacturing, electronics, energy, mobility, transportation, and logistics. Representatives will also present country reports, providing essential information on engineering developments and challenges faced by each Asean country. Chiang said that the CAFEO 42 will foster innovation by providing platforms for new technologies and solutions, where the conference will act as a catalyst for growth in the engineering community. “This discussion is also crucial in fostering regional cooperation and sharing best practices across the vast Asean engineering landscape,” he said. Meanwhile, CAFEO 42 will be the WEAFEO (Women Engineers Asean Federation of Engineering Organisations) Summit. The summit will focus on empowering women engineers and addressing the unique challenges they face in the engineering profession. Chiang stated that women engineers would be on par and be on equal footing with their male counterparts in the field, in the near time. “The production from universities now is on the correct track as there are many women engineers to be born. As women now choose to dive into electronics, it seems to be suited to the trend.”

BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE TUESDAY | JUNE 4, 2024 14 /thesundaily FOLLOW ON FACEBOOK Malaysian Paper Tax reforms help stimulate innovation, advanced tech: BMI KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s latest tax reforms, outlined in the Budget 2024 to stimulate domestic startups, drive clean energy investment and modernise tax administration, are set to benefit innovative startup businesses, green technology sectors and service-oriented companies. BMI, a Fitch Solutions company, said the Budget’s sweeping tax reforms aimed to stimulate local industries and channel investment into key sectors, including advanced manufacturing. Among the initiatives are Reinvestment Allowance (RA), Electric Vehicles (EVs) Tax Incentives and Global Services Hub Tax Incentive. BMI said the RA effectively lowers the tax burden on companies that undertake capital investments to modernise machinery, upgrade technology or diversify into higher-value products, while the extended tax incentives until the assessment year 2027 for EVs will reduce operational costs for businesses in the rental sector, potentially accelerating fleet upgrades and increased adoption of green vehicles. “Companies that set up global service centres in Malaysia will benefit from a reduced tax rate under the Global Services Hub Tax Incentive,” it said in a statement. BMI noted that Malaysia’s corporate income tax rate of 24% positions it towards the higher end of the spectrum in the broader Asia region. In contrast, Asean neighbours such as Singapore and Thailand offer more competitive rates of 17% and 20% respectively, positioning them as more favourable investment destinations on a tax basis. However, BMI said introducing targeted incentives can offset the high tax rates. “While Malaysia’s corporate income tax rate is high by regional standards, the introduction of targeted investment incentives is poised to enhance investment appeal in key innovative and sustainable sectors. “This strategy will enhance Malaysia’s attractiveness as an investment hub before the Global Minimum Tax (GMT) comes into effect. “Once the GMT is adopted broadly across Asia, the competition edge will shift as low tax rates will no longer be a draw for foreign direct investment, given that the tax floor will be uniform in adopting markets.” BMI said consequently, economies like Malaysia will need to offer additional incentives to enhance their attractiveness to businesses. “Such proactive measures are expected to strengthen Malaysia’s overall value proposition for companies operating within its borders,” it added. Malaysia’s implementation of the GMT, as part of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development’s Base Erosion Profit Shifting (BEPS) 2.0 project, has been deferred to 2025. This tax will affect multinational enterprises with consolidated revenues exceeding €750 million (RM3.83 billi0n), by instituting a floor of 15% on their tax rates. Introducing mechanisms such as the Qualified Domestic Minimum Top-Up Tax and the Income Inclusion Rule will fortify the tax base against erosion, aligning Malaysia with global efforts to curtail tax avoidance. – Bernama Islamic finance ecosystem can attract investors: Don KANGAR: The growing Islamic financial ecosystem in Malaysia has the potential to attract more investments, not only from Islamic countries but also from investors who prioritise ethical principles and social responsibility. Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP) Faculty of Business and Communication senior lecturer Assoc Prof Dr Mohd Zukime Mat Junoh said that one of the attractions of the Islamic financial system is its adherence to syariah requirements, transparency, and ethics, as well as its diversified investments. He said investors from Islamic countries seek investment opportunities that comply with syariah principles, and the developing Islamic finance sector offers various products and services that meet these needs. “Islamic finance emphasises principles of transparency, fairness, and social responsibility, offering an attractive alternative for global investors – including from non-Islamic countries – seeking to diversify their investments due to its stability and ethical investing.” Mohd Zukime was commenting on Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s speech at the Global Forum on Islamic Economics and Finance (GFIEF) last Tuesday, where he emphasised that the Islamic finance ecosystem needs to evolve by focusing on value-based finance, moving beyond profit-driven motives. Wealth should be shared to uplift communities, and investments should ensure balanced prosperity. During the event, Anwar also announced an allocation of RM100 million to boost innovation in Islamic finance. Mohd Zukime said the Islamic financial ecosystem, which is based on justice, balance, and social responsibility, at the same time emphasising the sharing of risks and profit and prohibiting usury and excessive speculation, must continue to advance to benefit the country’s economy. This would allow Malaysia to strengthen its position as a global Islamic financial hub, attracting more financial institutions and foreign investors, thereby boosting national economic growth. “By eliminating usury and excessive speculation, Islamic finance tends to be more stable and resilient to financial crises. This can help reduce market volatility and create a more stable economic environment.” Perlis Islamic University College Faculty of Muamalat and Islamic Finance lecturer Nur Syaedah Kamis, who also attended GFIEF last Tuesday, said the development of the Islamic financial ecosystem is crucial to ensuring syariah objectives, especially the protection of wealth, are maintained. “This ecosystem follows syariah principles to ensure transactions and investments benefit all stakeholders, including the asnaf or those in need. “The wealth distribution process within this ecosystem ensures that wealth is not monopolised by a few but is enjoyed by all levels of society. This significantly contributes to the national economy in terms of financial stability, market diversification, strengthening the domestic economy, and enhancing social well-being,” she said. – Bernama Semicon players ready to propel themselves upwards KUALA LUMPUR: As the National Semiconductor Strategy (NSS) sets out to transform Malaysia into a global powerhouse in the semiconductor industry over the next decade, industry players are eager and ready to propel themselves upward. Industry players, both local and international, believe there are tremendous business opportunities offered under the NSS that need to be exploited strategically. Malaysian Semiconductor Industry Association (MSIA) president Datuk Seri Wong Siew Hai said the NSS will not only support and further boost the country’s value chain globally, it will also spur its advanced packaging, equipment and automation technology. He said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s NSS announcement at Semicon Southeast Asia 2024 last Tuesday demonstrated Malaysia’s seriousness in bringing its semiconductor industry to greater heights. “The fact that the government has allocated RM25 billion to support all NSS’ efforts is a real testimony that our country is very committed to the semiconductor industry and wants it to grow. “The opportunity is huge, given this industry is projected to grow to U$1 trillion (RM4.69 trillion) in revenue by 2030 globally. There are even forecasts that it (the revenue) will go beyond that by the time it reaches 2050,” he told Bernama when met at Semicon oCompanies believe there are tremendous business opportunities under NSS Southeast Asia 2024, the largest congregation of supply chain companies in the semiconductor and electronics industry. Therefore, Wong urged local players to seize all advantages and opportunities resulting from the NSS. Meanwhile, Daan de Cloe, managing director of foreign investments and international trade at Dutch public organisation Brabant Development Agency, said the announcement of NSS highlighted Malaysia’s strong ambition to grow further in the industry. De Cloe said that Dutch semiconductor industry players possess ample knowledge and technologies and are ready to build an ecosystem together in Malaysia and contribute to its growth. He noted that Malaysia’s semiconductor industry has grown significantly over the past few decades. “It (the Malaysian semiconductor industry) has shown significant growth, and looking at the current ambition (through the NSS), it will continue to grow for the upcoming years. “It will increase the attractiveness for the foreign companies to come here and invest and share their knowledge about semiconductors.” De Cloe hoped Malaysia could produce more highly skilled labour to fulfil its needs and requirements. “We hope that we will get sufficient talents and also build the required skill labour that we need to establish the supply chain, the high technology supply chain that is required to build a complex machine,” he said. Echoing de Cloe, Zilian (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd executive director Kon Qi Yau agreed with the government initiative to develop a global research and development (R&D) hub for semiconductors, featuring world-class universities, corporates, and centres of excellence, and train and upskill 60,000 Malaysian engineers. “Previously, some people might think that in terms of R&D (the adoption) of new and advanced technology, Malaysia is slightly behind Singapore,” he said, adding this perception can be overturned via this initiative. Kon also hopes that this initiative will include students at the primary, secondary, and tertiary levels. “We need skilled labour because, for the past 15 years, Malaysia has only focused on outsourced semiconductor assembly and testing. “So when we want to go to the front-end wafer fabrication, we definitely need more technical people on the wafer fabrication side.” Meanwhile, Invest Penang CEO Datuk Loo Lee Lian said that when mapping Asian countries’ strengths across the semiconductor value chain, it is evident that Malaysia’s competitive advantages lie in integrated circuit (IC) design, advanced packaging, and equipment manufacturing. “We applaud the NSS for accurately identifying these as the strategic verticals for Malaysia to build on. “We need to be strategic with the targeted RM500 billion foreign direct investment to ensure it includes opportunities for local participation in the supply chain, equity, technology and intellectual property (IP) ownership and that the RM25 billion allocation in fiscal support will be directly to spur local startup and entrepreneurship.” Loo said a holistic approach should be taken to address the current technical shortages and build a sustainable pipeline for science, technology, engineering and mathematics talents. – Bernama FIABCI names Pavilion Bukit Jalil ‘world’s best retail centre’ KUALA LUMPUR: Pavilion Bukit Jalil, the iconic retail and lifestyle shopping destination in Kuala Lumpur, was named World Gold Winner in the retail category at the FIABCI World Prix D’Excellence Awards 2024. Pavilion Real Estate Investment Trust said the award presentation, held recently in Singapore, marked a significant milestone for both the firm and Malaysia’s retail industry. It noted that the FIABCI World Prix D’Excellence Awards is renowned for its rigorous evaluation process and international prestige, recognising outstanding real estate projects that embody excellence in design, development and sustainability. “This year, the FIABCI International judging committee, comprising over 60 judges from 35 countries, recognised Pavilion Bukit Jalil as the World’s Best Retail Centre,” it said in a statement. Pavilion REIT deputy CEO Patrick Liau Kong Voon said Pavilion Bukit Jalil’s commitment to sustainability and creating meaningful spaces for the community played a crucial role in swaying the judges. He attributed Pavilion Bukit Jalil’s success to its size, location, the neighbourhood’s growing catchment as well as the international events hosted at the mall. He said Pavilion Bukit Jalil is expected to achieve over a 90% occupancy rate by year end, signalling resilience and robust confidence from retailers eager to establish a presence in this award-winning mall. – Bernama

BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE TUESDAY | JUNE 4, 2024 15 Embrace technology for self-improvement How has your life experience made you the leader you are today? I vividly recall my days as an ambitious university graduate, eager to rapidly ascend the corporate ladder. My journey was not without its fair share of obstacles, and though it’s often said that one should learn from other’s mistakes, I found that my most profound lessons came from my own. My career has spanned various industries and roles, but the common thread has always been my relentless drive to provide value, irrespective of the role or function I was in. What traits do you look for in your talent or how do you decide who is right for a job? The attribute I value most in people is the authentic joy they derive from doing what they love. This passion fuels a growth mindset, which I believe is the key ingredient for any company’s advancement. How do you think the industry you are in will evolve in the future? We stand at the precipice of a massive transformation in the industry. The advent of cuttingedge technologies such as AI, blockchain, Internet of Things, data science and automation is already inducing significant shifts. However, I firmly believe that it’s not the technology itself that will supplant us; rather, those who can adeptly harness these technologies will gain a formidable advantage. What advice can you offer those looking to start their career/own business? My advice is this: The truest source of discipline and motivation comes from engaging in work you enjoy and believe in. Without a deeprooted sense of purpose, navigating through challenging times can become exceedingly difficult. Furthermore, nurturing a genuine sense of curiosity and a commitment to continuous learning is vital to your success. We all know about the industrial revolution, are we in for a technological revolution? oThis week SunBiz gets the thoughts and views of MindMagine Asia Sdn Bhd consultancy director (Asia) Michiel DeBoer (who has married a Malaysian and settled in KL) I-Bhd: RM100m to drive future growth of i-City SHAH ALAM: I-Bhd master developer of Malaysia’s No. 1 Technology City, iCity, has made a RM100 million investment pledge in Redeemable Preference Shares from its major shareholder Tan Sri Lim Kim Hong. The financial backing is geared towards expediting the property development pipeline in i-City, to leverage the anticipated upswing in the property market. It also underscores a strong vote of confidence in i-City’s growth potential and strategic initiatives especially with the acceleration of Malaysia’s Digital agenda which extends towards digital townships. According to Lim, it is a “shared vision for a future where technology and lifestyle intersect to forge unparalleled destination to eat, play and live. It reaffirms our strategy to not only construct buildings but also cultivate communities and experiences that resonate with contemporary urbanites”. In the past two years, the group has been rebuilding its property development roadmap that was disrupted by the pandemic and is now positioned for significant growth where unbilled sales increased to RM113 million at the end of 2023 from RM39 million in the same period in 2021. As such, the group is accelerating the completion of the current projects to ride the wave of the expected upturn in the property market. In a press statement, the group said that the RM100 million infusion will catalyse the development of the remaining GDV of RM5 billion and strengthen the path for unparalleled growth and prosperity. With the financial backing in place, the group is set to grow its RM1 billion investment property portfolio and maximise returns from assets such as GBI Grade A Mercu Maybank corporate tower, 5-star DoubleTree Hilton i-City, Best Western hotel, Central i-City regional mall, Tier-3 Data Centre and carpark facilities. This focus enables i-City to deliver a compelling value proposition to both tenants and business partners, ensuring enhanced profitability and growth opportunities. The group’s unwavering focus on positioning iCity as a vibrant destination has created sustained long-term multiplying effects for its property development, property investment, and leisure divisions. George Kent metering division makes RM20m profit for Q4’24 PETALING JAYA: George Kent (Malaysia) Bhd’s core business in metering is continuing to be profitable, underscoring the robustness of the metering business, it was disclosed when the group announced the financial results for the fourth quarter of its financial year ended March 31, 2024 (Q4’24). The group closed the financial year ended March 31, 2024, with a loss before tax of RM25.72 million (FY23: profit before tax of RM7.75 million). The results were significantly impacted by a combination of events, namely impairment of PPE of an associate, impacting the share of results of associates and impairment of investment in an associate and adjustment of variation work claims due to prolonged unresolved disputes and unforeseen additional costs incurred for the same project impacting the engineering division. Furthermore, the group said in a statement that the division was adversely affected when budgeted new contracts were delayed and not secured. To reward shareholders, the board of directors has declared a second interim dividend of 0.75 sen per share for FY24, payable on July 11, 2024, to shareholders whose names appear in the record of depositors on June 20, 2024, being the book closure date (BCD). On the assumption that the treasury shares of 41,510,000 (which are not entitled to dividend) remained the same as at BCD, the dividend payout on 521,759,065 shares will amount to approximately RM3.91 million. The board declared a first interim dividend of 0.75 sen per share (FY23: 1 sen per share) on Dec 18, 2023, paid on Jan 8, 2024, which amounted to RM3.91 million on 521,759,065 shares (FY23: RM5.22 million on 521,959,065 shares). In ringgit terms, the two interim dividends will total RM7.82 million (FY22: RM10.44 million) for the financial year ended March 31, 2024. Despite the challenges faced by the group, the metering division remained profitable, achieving a profit of RM20.43 million for the financial year. The group said that the metering division is poised to gain deeper access to the Vietnam market with the completion of the assembly plant. It is a joint venture with a longstanding local partner with extensive local knowledge in the water sector. They have penetrated into the South American market and are strengthening collaborative efforts with their other regional distributors to expand their distribution channels and increase their water metering market share. Your thoughts. Indeed, as I mentioned earlier, we are at the precipice of a p r o f o u n d t e c h n o l o g i c a l revolution. But instead of fearing that technology will replace us, we should see this as an opportunity to further our own evolution. Those who are adept at leveraging these new technologies effectively will inevitably gain the upper hand. How has mentorship made a difference in your professional life? Recognising the influence one wields as a leader is crucial. Leadership by example is one of the most potent tools for fostering growth in individuals and organisations alike. Throughout my journey, I’ve been fortunate to have had excellent mentors and coaches who’ve shifted my perspectives. But it’s not just the positive examples that shape you; the negative ones also play a significant role. They offer a stark contrast, enabling you to better define your aspirations and what you truly want from life. What do you want to accomplish in the next five years? My goals for the next five years mirror those I’ve pursued in the previous five. I aim to collaborate with a remarkable team, maintain a commitment to continuous learning, and adapt as needed to consistently provide genuine value to others. Best piece of advice you ever got on your career. Do the things you like and be good at it. Most admired business leader? Why? The business leaders I admire most are those unafraid to innovate, even when their decisions may not be universally popular. They fight for what they believe is right, making choices that benefit their teams and humanity as a whole. How do you stay abreast of issues affecting your industry? The key to staying abreast of issues affecting my industry is adaptation. We make plans, but life often unfolds in unexpected ways. Embracing this principle offers a fresh perspective on managing uncertainties. There will always be challenges – some brought about by our actions, others beyond our control. The critical distinction lies in our response: do we perceive these as failures or learning opportunities? I believe the latter approach is far more sustainable. If you could have an hour with any thought leader in the world, who would it be and why? That’s a tough question because I have a myriad of interests, leading to a lengthy list of thought leaders, both past and present, whom I admire. The “why” might indeed be the more intriguing part of this question. I’m deeply interested in understanding their passion and drive, and learning what motivated them to evolve and make their mark in the way they did. What has been the biggest challenge you have faced? and what did you learn from it? The most significant challenge I’ve faced was establishing a business with a partner, a venture that ultimately soured and led to the failure of the enterprise. This was a deeply painful experience, both in terms of self-esteem and financial impact. However, the profound lesson I gleaned was understanding the importance of growth with individuals who share a genuine intent to resolve problems collaboratively. It is the joint resolution of issues that truly fortify relationships, not merely good intentions and positive sentiments. What was the most outlandish business proposal you have ever heard of? Give me an unlimited marketing budget and I’ll get you your customers! A must-read for every business owner/manager is ... There are numerous insightful books on business, psychology, and management that I believe are beneficial for everyone, not just business owners. However, if I had to single one out, it would unquestionably be The Art of War by Sun Tzu. I consider it essential reading. How do you expect policies on climate change to impact businesses in the future? I believe sustainability and social responsibility are the pillars upon which we must build our future. Numerous innovative ideas and directives can guide us towards this objective. However, I do have concerns about socio-political influences potentially steering these initiatives for less-than-ideal purposes. Companies will indeed face impacts, particularly in complying with climate policies and making the necessary investments for compliance. The exact nature of these impacts, however, will depend on the specific directives implemented and whether they are advisory or mandatory. What are the top three factors you would attribute to your success? 0 Maintaining an open mind to new ideas and developments. 0 Demonstrating respect for individuals, irrespective of their status or title. 0 Sharing successes with my team, while taking accountability for failures and treating them as learning opportunities. SUCCESS : THE INSIGHT STORY

BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE TUESDAY | JUNE 4, 2024 16 @thesundaily FOLLOW ON Malaysian Paper INSTAGRAM China investors forced to offload shares in miner MELBOURNE: Australian Treasurer Jim Chalmers has ordered several China-linked investors to dispose of shares in rare earth miner Northern Minerals on national interest grounds, a spokesman said yesterday. Northern Minerals is developing the Browns Range heavy rare earths project in Western Australia, at a time when the sector has become increasingly strategic for its uses in green energy and defence. A disposal order issued by Chalmers on Sunday said Yuxiao Fund had 60 days to dispose of 80 million shares it bought in September. Singapore-registered Yuxiao Fund is the private investment vehicle of Chinese national Wu Yuxiao, Reuters earlier reported. The fund had sought Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB) approval to raise its ownership to 19.9% in 2022, from 9.81% of Northern Minerals, but was declined last year. Northern Minerals chairman Adam Handley in a statement to Reuters said that it had referred certain share-buying activity to the FIRB to investigate last October. “Northern Minerals made the referral to FIRB because of our duty to act in the best interests of all shareholders, ensure the integrity of the company’s share register and uphold our high standards of good governance,” he said, adding that it would have no impact on its development of the Browns Range mine. In aggregate, the number of shares that must be divested amounts to around 10.4% of Northern Minerals’ issued share capital, it noted, which, added to Chalmers posing for a photograph at a G20 finance ministers’ and central bank governors’ meeting in the Indian city of Gandhinagar. – REUTERSPIC oAustralian treasurer says decision is to protect national interest Yoon approves exploration of vast oil, gas prospects SEOUL: South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol gave the green light yesterday to conduct exploratory drilling for potentially vast oil and gas prospects found off the east coast of the nation that is one of the world’s largest energy importers. There is a “very high” possibility the area contains as much as 14 billion barrels of oil and gas, Yoon told a press conference, citing a study he said was reviewed by experts and industry groups. “Today, I approved the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy to go ahead with the drilling for exploration deep in the east sea.” The project, estimated to cost more than 500 billion won (RM1.7 billion), will begin near the end of the year in hopes of finding energy reserves by the first half of next year, Yoon said. The site was off the southeastern industrial port city of Pohang, Yoon added, with an industry ministry official adding that the prospects are in South Korea’s Exclusive Economic Zone. Yoon said South Korea’s exploration efforts for oil and gas beginning in 1996 have tapped gas reserves equivalent to about 4.5 million barrels, with commercial development completed in 2021. The new prospects promise enough gas to fuel the country for 29 years and oil equivalent to four years of consumption, he added. Energy stocks in Seoul jumped on the news. Shares of oil refiner SK Innovation closed up 6%, Korea Gas Corporation jumped 30% to a 17-month high, Daesung Energy also hit the daily limit of 30%, and SK Gas climbed 7%. South Korea is the world’s fourth-largest buyer of crude and gas, according to the Korea National Oil Corporation (KNOC), and the ninth-largest energy consumer. Three-quarters of the prospects are estimated to contain gas and the rest oil, said Energy Minister Ahn Duk-geun, with commercial production targeted for 2035. Another Industry Ministry official said KNOC will lead the drilling, aiming to determine the size of the prospects. Up to 10 wells may be needed to be drilled at a cost of 100 billion won each, said the official, who requested anonymity. South Korea has minimal fossil-fuel resources and imports all but 1% of each of its supplies of coal, oil and natural gas. It is the world’s second-largest importer of liquefied natural gas after Japan and the fifth-largest importer of oil. – Reuters Freeport Indonesia raises output target JAKARTA: Copper miner Freeport Indonesia has raised its output guidance for the year as it awaits an extension of its copper concentrate export permit that the government has promised, the company’s deputy CEO Jenpino Ngabdi told Parliament yesterday. Its copper concentrate output target this year was lifted to 3.78 million metric tonnes, assuming the export permit extension is approved, from an initial 2.84 million tonnes, Jenpino said. The company, majority owned by the Indonesian government but operated by American miner Freeport-McMoran, also raised its 2024 refined copper output target to 1.73 million pounds, from 1.42 million pounds previously, he added. Freeport Indonesia’s last export permit was valid until May 31 and its new targets must be approved by the Mining Ministry. Indonesia banned shipments of all raw minerals from June last year, but Freeport Indonesia and rival copper miner Amman Mineral Internasional were given a year-long dispensation to allow them to finish the construction of their copper smelters. The government has promised to extend the dispensation until the end of this year so that the companies can continue to export before their smelters reach full capacity but with additional levies on shipments. The regulation for the new levies was not publicly available as of yesterday morning. “We are targeting operational start of the JIIPE smelter in early June with the commissioning of the furnace smelter,“ Jenpino said, referring to the Java Integrated Industrial and Ports Estate smelter in East Java. – Reuters Tencent to buy 10% stake in GMM Music for US$70 million BANGKOK: Thai entertainment platform GMM Music yesterday said Tencent and Tencent Music Entertainment will acquire a 10% stake in the company for US$70 million (RM329 million), solidifying its spin-off plan. Tencent and its controlled entity Tencent Music will buy the stake through a combination of cash and a minority stake in music streaming app JOOX Thailand, valuing GMM Music at US$700 million. In July last year, GMM Music’s parent company GMM Grammy approved a plan for spinning off the music unit and listing it on the Stock Exchange of Thailand. The deal will help GMM Music expand its business and fund innovation, the company said. “This partnership will lead to cooperative efforts in expanding our business into new and larger markets, where China is one of the key target territories with its immense market potential,” GMM Music CEO Phawit Chitrakorn said. – Reuters Yuxiao Fund’s holdings, would come close to 20%, the point at which a party would have to declare its intentions under Australian takeover law. Northern Minerals has said the fund was controlled by Wu Tao, the chairman of mainland China-based Jinan Yuxiao Group. Other foreign shareholders ordered to dispose of shares within 60 days include Ximei Liu, Xi Wang, and Black Stone Resources, the notice said. “The Treasurer has issued orders that Yuxiao Fund Pte Ltd and four associates reduce their shareholdings in Northern Minerals,” a spokesman for Chalmers said in a statement yesterday. “The decision, based on advice from the Foreign Investment Review Board, is designed to protect our national interest and ensure compliance with our foreign investment framework.” Browns Range is set to supply Iluka Resources’ Eneabba rare earths refinery under construction in Western Australia, which already has a A$1 billion (RM3.1 billion) funding pledge from the Australian government and is waiting on a decision for more. Australia has said it is looking for friendly nations to build out its critical minerals industry as the West diversifies away from dominant producer China. Last week, Northern Minerals chairman Nick Curtis exited the company’s board. Curtis declined to comment. Shares in Northern Minerals were little changed at A$0.035. The company’s annual general meeting is on June 6. Canberra screens foreign investment in key sectors for national security, including critical minerals, and has blocked some Chinese deals which have irked Beijing. Australia is preparing for a visit by Chinese Premier Li Qiang later this month. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on a visit in March that he hoped Australia would ensure its market environment did not discriminate against Chinese business. Chalmers’ spokesman said Australia’s foreign investment framework did not discriminate against any nation. – Reuters

BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE TUESDAY | JUNE 4, 2024 17 Microsoft to invest billions in Sweden STOCKHOLM: Microsoft said Monday it would invest 33.7 billion kronor (RM15 billion) over two years in cloud and artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure in Sweden, its biggest investment in the country. The group will train 250,000 people by 2027 to boost AI knowledge and competence and also increase capacity at its three data centres in the country, it said. “Microsoft’s largest investment in our history in Sweden” would enable the Scandinavian country “to build world-leading AI data centre infrastructure”, the company’s president Brad Smith told reporters at a joint press conference with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson. “A big part of the reason we’re able to do this is because of Sweden’s forward-looking energy policy, the plentiful access to green energy, whether it’s carbon-free energy or renewable energy,” Smith said. The US group has in recent months announced similar AI investments in other countries, including in France where it vowed to invest €4 billion and Japan where it announced a US$2.9 billion AI push. In Sweden, Microsoft will provide more than 20,000 graphic processing units, needed for training AI models, and will boost capacity at its data centres in Sandviken, Gavle and Staffanstorp. “AI is a catalyst for many things,” Kristersson said. “It will also help accelerate development in other areas,” he said. – AFP Turkish inflation jumps to 75.45% last month ISTANBUL: Turkiye’s annual inflation rate accelerated to 75.45% in May, official data showed yesterday, as the central bank expects consumer prices have finally reached their peak and will begin to slow next month. Turkiye has been battling a cost-of-living crisis that prompted President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to drop his opposition to interest-rate hikes to combat inflation. The central bank began to raise its key rate in June last year, gradually taking it from 8.5% to 50%. Last month, central bank governor Fatih Karahan raised the year-end inflation forecast to 38%, up from a previous estimate of 36%. But Karahan also said inflation would begin to slow this month after reaching a peak in May. Turkiye’s national statistics office said yesterday annual inflation reached 75.45% in May after accelerating to 69.8% in April. It added that consumer prices had risen by 3.7% on a monthly basis between April and May, in line with central bank forecasts. – AFP Airlines eye ‘new frontier’ of AI DUBAI: Airlines may not be replacing pilots with artificial intelligence (AI) anytime soon, but aviation industry experts say the new technology is already revolutionising the way they do business. “Data and AI are fantastic levers for the aviation sector,” said Julie Pozzi, the head of data science and AI at Air France-KLM, ahead of the 80th meeting of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) in Dubai. Airline executives will gather at the influential annual global airline summit in the United Arab Emirates this week for talks on the latest in the industry, including upcoming AI projects. Aviation companies, long accustomed to thin profit margins, see AI as the newest way to boost productivity and gain a competitive edge. AI is “undoubtedly a new frontier, in that it’s an extraordinary acceleration of technology and capabilities”, said Geoffrey Weston, the head consultant on the airline industry at US-based firm Bain & Company. “When you have a lot of uncertainty... what AI is really helpful oIndustry experts say new technology is already revolutionising the way they do business for is to hugely accelerate getting the right information to the right people as quickly as possible,” he said. Air France-KLM is doing this, with “more than 40 projects using generative artificial intelligence”, which like the now-famous ChatGPT is meant to improve as it is being used. Among the French-Dutch company’s plans is a tool that responds to customers in 85 different languages to be installed on the tablets of Air France agents, and is scheduled for use in 2025 at Paris Charles de Gaulle airport. The airport’s operator, Groupe ADP, has also launched several AI initiatives in cooperation with startups – including Allobrain, which uses voice recognition to answer phone calls to the airport. It has reduced “the number of unanswered phone calls from 50% to 10%”, said Alban Negret, the head of ADP’s innovation division. The airport operator hopes to streamline drop-off areas and shuttle rotations through the help of another subcontractor, Wintics, which specialises in extracting data from real-time surveillance images. As air travel grows, reducing wait times is one of the industry’s important challenges, according to aerospace expert Jerome Bouchard. “We have more and more passengers in increasingly constrained spaces, and we are still travelling as we did in the 1970s” said the consultant for Oliver Wyman’s Transportation and Services practice. “There is room for improvement,” he added, referring to the potential of using facial recognition at airport security. “But all this requires enormous coordination and data synchronisation” which is still lacking, according to Bouchard. Modern aircraft, with their sophisticated self-diagnostic and control systems, are data factories that can be leveraged with AI, the experts say. But when it comes to actually piloting the aircraft, they say there is no question about leaving it to algorithms. In the end, “it is up to humans to take responsibility for decision-making”, Thales CEO Patrice Caine said. “Rather than artificial intelligence, I would speak of assisted intelligence, an intelligence that assists humans.” – AFP India shares surge as exit polls predict Modi win MUMBAI: Indian shares set records, the rupee gained and bond yields dropped early yesterday as exit polls pointed to a third term and sizable mandate for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with investors eying public spending to maintain economic momentum. The broader Nifty index rose as much as 3.59% to a record 23,338.70 points while the BSE index surged 3.76% to a lifetime peak of 76,738.89. The Nifty 50 index posted its best intra-day gain since Feb 1, 2021. The benchmark 10-year government bond yield touched 6.9421%, its lowest since April 8, 2022, falling 4 basis points from its previous close. The rupee strengthened to 82.9575, its highest since March 19. Weekend exit polls projected the alliance led by Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to increase its 303 seats in the 543-member lower house and likely get a two-thirds majority – enough to initiate amendments to the Constitution. A win had been widely expected but, if confirmed in official results due today, the margin will be larger than analyst forecasts and will be seen as a positive for equity markets that have scaled record highs on the back of economic growth. “The markets, at the moment, are pricing in a continuation of this government’s policies and approach towards economic management,” said ITI Mutual Fund chief investment officer Rajesh Bhatia. “We would expect the government to continue with the current policy approach of large capital expenditure, focus on production-linked incentives, to push the growth cycle further,” Bhatia said, adding the new government should stay away from taxation policies that hurt capital investment. India’s economic growth accelerated to 8.2% in the financial year to March 2024 led by government spending on infrastructure and a boom in real estate, data showed last week. If a Modi victory is as strong as indicated by the exit polls, analysts think he would have the political capital to keep going and perhaps even push for tougher land or labour reform. “If exit polls prove correct, it would be a vote for continuity,” Citi analysts said in a client note. “Medium-term, we expect stocks positively exposed to the focus on infrastructure/logistic and industrial/manufacturing to do well,” they said, noting Adani Ports, conglomerate Larson & Toubro and Bharat Electronics as among likely beneficiaries. Investors also expect the Modi government to continue focusing on turning the country into a manufacturing hub – a project that has courted foreign companies including Apple and Tesla to set up production as they diversify beyond China. Foreigners, who poured a net US$20.7 billion (RM97 billion) into Indian equities last year but had pulled back ahead of the election, may also see the vote’s conclusion as an excuse to buy. “Most clients we met with in recent months appeared to infer that political continuity would contribute to a stable macro-economic environment and continuing reforms,” said Goldman Sachs analysts. – Reuters People watching exit polls on television in the Indian city of Hyderabad. – AFPPIC

BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE TUESDAY | JUNE 4, 2024 18 AMD launches new AI chips to rival Nvidia TAIPEI: Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) unveiled its latest artificial intelligence processors on Monday and detailed its plan to develop AI chips over the next two years in a bid to challenge industry leader Nvidia . At the Computex technology trade show in Taipei, AMD CEO Lisa Su introduced the MI325X accelerator, which is set to be made available in the fourth quarter of 2024. The race to develop generative artificial intelligence programmes has led to towering demand for the advanced chips used in AI data centres to support these complex applications. Santa Clara, California-based AMD has been vying to compete against Nvidia, which currently dominates the lucrative market for AI semiconductors and commands about 80% of its share. Since last year, Nvidia has made it clear to investors that it plans to shorten its release cycle to annually, and now AMD has followed suit. “AI is clearly our number one oThe MI325X accelerator will be available in Q4’24 with the MI350 and MI400 following suit in 2025 and 2026 Emirates boss says Boeing needs strong CEO to end crisis DUBAI: The head of Dubai airline Emirates urged Boeing to pick an engineering and business heavyweight to lead a deep overhaul of the US aerospace giant and said the task of ending the planemaker’s recent confidence crisis “must get done”. “Is it fixable and salvageable? Yes, it is. Will it get things back to where it needs to? It must. And you’ll only do that with very strong leadership, who are fixated on doing the right thing,“ Emirates Airline president Tim Clark told reporters on the sidelines of a major airlines summit. Turning round the manufacturer after a series of safety and industrial problems, to the point where it can meet existing and new demand smoothly, may take five years, he said. Emirates is the world’s largest buyer of long-haul jets to feed its Gulf hub. Boeing is looking for a new CEO after announcing that Dave Calhoun would step down by the end of the year following back-to-back crises exacerbated by the blowout of a loose door plug on an Alaska Airlines 737 MAX 9 jet in January. Clark, who has been one of Boeing’s severest critics during the Emirates is undergoing largest cabin refurbishment on existing jets while awaiting its delayed 777X delivery, pushed back by at least five years from its original 2020 target. – UNSPLASH PIX Opec+ extends deep oil production cuts into 2025 DUBAI: Opec+ agreed on Sunday to extend most of its deep oil output cuts well into 2025 as the group seeks to shore up the market amid tepid demand growth, high interest rates and rising rival US production. Brent crude oil prices have been trading near US$80 per barrel in recent days, below what many Opec+ members need to balance their budgets. Worries over slow demand growth in top oil importer China have weighed on prices alongside rising oil stocks in developed economies. The Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and allies led by Russia, together known as Opec+, have made a series of deep output cuts since late 2022. Opec+ members are currently cutting output by a total of 5.86 million barrels per day (bpd), or about 5.7% of global demand. Those include 3.66 million bpd of cuts, which were due to expire at the end of 2024, and voluntary cuts by eight members of 2.2 million bpd, expiring at the end of June 2024. On Sunday, Opec+ agreed to extend the cuts of 3.66 million bpd by a year until the end of 2025 and prolong the cuts of 2.2 million bpd by three months until the end of September 2024. Opec+ will gradually phase out the cuts of 2.2 million bpd over the course of a year from October 2024 to September 2025. “We are waiting for interest rates to come down and a better trajectory when it comes to economic growth ... not pockets of growth here and there,“ Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman told reporters. Opec expects demand for Opec+ crude to average 43.65 million bpd in the second half of 2024, implying a stocks drawdown of 2.63 million bpd if the group maintains output at April’s rate of 41.02 million bpd. The drawdown will be less when Opec+ starts phasing out the 2.2 million bpd voluntary cuts in October. The International Energy Agency, which represents top global consumers, estimates that demand for Opec+ oil plus stocks will average much lower levels of 41.9 million bpd in 2024. “The deal should allay market fears of Opec+ adding back barrels at a time when demand concerns are still rife,“ said Amrita Sen, co-founder of Energy Aspects think tank. Prince Abdulaziz said Opec+ could pause the unwinding of cuts or reverse them if demand wasn’t strong enough. Analysts had expected Opec+ to prolong voluntary cuts by a few months due to falling oil prices and sluggish demand. But many analysts had also predicted the group would struggle to set targets for 2025 as it had yet to agree individual capacity targets for each member, an issue that had previously created tensions. – Reuters Toyota, Japan automakers face certification scrutiny TOKYO: Toyota Motor said yesterday its chairman would speak about an investigation it has conducted into its vehicle certification applications after being prompted by Japan’s transport ministry. Chairman Akio Toyoda held a press conference at 0800 GMT yesterday, the company said. The transport ministry said separately it will conduct an on-site inspection at Toyota’s headquarters soon. It said irregularities were found in applications to certify models from Toyota, Mazda Motor, Yamaha Motor, Honda Motor and Suzuki Motor and that it had ordered Toyota, Mazda and Yamaha to suspend shipments of some vehicles. The ministry had requested automakers to investigate their vehicle certification applications following a safety test scandal at Toyota’s compact car unit Daihatsu. Toyota said on Sunday it has temporarily halted shipments and sales of three car models made in Japan. Yamaha said it had halted shipments of a sports motorcycle. A Mazda spokesman said it will also issue a press release followed by a press conference. Honda is also due to hold a press conference. A Toyota spokesman added that the company is still investigating issues related to vehicle fuel efficiency and emissions, and aimed to complete the inquiry by the end of June. – Reuters priority as a company and we have really harnessed all of the development capability within the company to do that,” Su told reporters. “This annual cadence is something that is there because the market requires newer products and newer capabilities. Every year we have the next big thing such that we always have the most competitive portfolio.” AMD also introduced an upcoming series of chips titled MI350, which is expected to be available in 2025 and will be based on new chip architecture. Compared to the currently available MI300 series of AI chips, AMD said it expects the MI350 to perform 35 times better in inference – the process of computing generative AI responses. Additionally, AMD revealed the MI400 series, which will arrive in 2026 and will be based on an architecture called “Next”. Investors who have poured billions of dollars into Wall Street’s picks-and-shovels trade have been seeking longer-term updates from chip firms, as they evaluate the longevity of the booming genAI rally, which so far has shown no signs of slowing down. AMD’s shares have more than doubled since the start of 2023. This surge still pales in comparison to the more than seven-fold rise in Nvidia’s shares in the same time period. AMD is aiming at an AI chip product cycle of one year. Similarly, Nvidia said it plans to release a new family of AI chips every year. AMD’s Su said in April that the company expects AI chip sales of roughly US$4 billion (RM19 billion) for 2024, an increase of US$500 million from its prior estimate. At the Computex event, AMD also said its latest generation of central processor units (CPUs) will likely be available in the second half of 2024. While businesses generally prioritise spending on AI chips in data centers, some of AMD’s CPUs are used in conjunction with graphics processor units, though the ratio is skewed in favour of GPUs. AMD detailed architecture for its new neural processing units, which are dedicated to handling ondevice AI tasks in AI PCs. Chipmakers have been banking on added AI capabilities to drive growth in the PC market as it emerges from a years-long slump. PC providers such as HP and Lenovo will release devices which include AMD’s AI PC chips. AMD said its processors exceed Microsoft’s Copilot+ PC requirements. – Reuters crisis, told Reuters he had never met Calhoun, who was appointed CEO in January 2020 following a pair of 737 MAX crashes in 2018 and 2019 that killed nearly 350 people. Boeing had no immediate comment on his remarks. In December, Boeing named Stephanie Pope to the newly created position of group-wide chief operating officer in a move seen at the time as positioning her as a leading contender to take over from Calhoun at some point in the next few years. Asked what he would like to see in a new Boeing CEO, Clark said: “I think that people who have got a really broad aerospace engineering capability, who are good business managers as well, are the people that you need to bring back and sort this one out. Whether Stephanie Pope is going to be able to step up and do that (as well as) anybody, time will tell”. Emirates, the largest operator of the 777 family, is carrying out what it calls the largest cabin refurbishment on existing planes as it awaits the first delivery of the Boeing 777X, delayed by at least five years from 2020. Clark said Boeing could not yet give a precise date for the plane’s first delivery. It has said it will be in 2025. – Reuters

BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE TUESDAY | JUNE 4, 2024 19 First quarter GDP grows by 4.2% PUTRAJAYA: The nation’s economy grew by 4.2% in the first quarter of 2024, up from 2.9% in the previous quarter, driven by increased household consumption and a rebound in exports due to higher external demand, said Chief Statistician Malaysia, Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Uzir Mahidin when focusing on Malaysia’s economic performance. He also said that Malaysia’s GDP growth was supported by a stable labour market, low unemployment and a rise in tourist arrivals, which boosted tourism-related activities, along with higher capital spending from both private and public sectors. “Seasonally adjusted GDP increased by 1.4% quarter-on-quarter, with monthly growth rates of 4.8% in January, 5% in February, and an easing 2.9% in March 2024,” remarked Mohd Uzir. Turning to the balance of payments, Malaysia’s current account balance (CAB) in the first quarter of 2024 recorded RM16.2 billion, as against RM10.8 billion in the same quarter of the previous year. This higher surplus was driven by net exports of goods account. On the investment side, Malaysia’s foreign direct investment (FDI) posted a lower net inflow of RM5.5 billion as compared to RM9.2 billion in Q1’23. Meanwhile, direct investment abroad (DIA) registered a higher net outflow of RM11.5 billion as against RM6.3 billion in Q1’23. Concerning the external sector, Malaysia’s merchandise trade in the first quarter of 2024, total trade turned around to note an increase of 7.1% year-on-year (y-o-y) after three consecutive quarters of decline. Exports and imports improved as compared to Q1’23 by 2.2% and 13.1%, respectively, while trade surplus decreased by 46.8%. The trade performance in March 2024, increased 5.1% from RM232.6 billion in the same month last year to RM244.5 billion, driven by a double-digit increase in imports (+12.5%), despite a 0.8% decline in exports. The trade surplus for March 2024 decreased 52% from the previous year to RM12.8 billion. In April 2024, total trade grew by 12.1%, with exports rebounding by 9.1% and imports rising by 15.6%, while trade balance declined 39% year-on-year. In view of the performance of Malaysia’s industrial production index (IPI) in March 2024, IPI remained positive with 2.4% year-on-year growth, moderated from 3.1% the previous month. This growth was led by the manufacturing sector which expanded by 1.3%, up from 1.2% in February 2024. Additionally, the mining and electricity sectors grew by 4.9% oRobust results fueled by rising household spending and export recovery spurred by increased global demand CMI calls for clear AI regulation to drive Malaysia’s economic growth KUALA LUMPUR: The UK-based professional institution for managers Chartered Management Institute (CMI) has called for a clear regulatory framework to guide the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in Malaysia, reflecting the interconnected nature of the global economy. CMI CEO Ann Francke emphasised the need for proactive regulation to harness AI’s benefits for the national economy. “A clear regulatory framework is essential, and it needs to be global to match our interconnected economy,” she told Bernama in an exclusive interview recently. As AI technology becomes increasingly integrated into business operations, it is also crucial to address the fear and resistance associated with AI by ensuring transparent and proactive regulations, she said. Francke underlined the importance of early government intervention to prevent the pitfalls associated with technological advancement. “We must learn from the past and establish both national and global frameworks to regulate AI effectively. “This approach will foster a balanced and beneficial integration of AI into business operations. “Key concerns include the fear of job replacement, misunderstanding of AI’s role, resistance to change, and communication failures,” she said. Francke also pointed out the potential of AI to create new jobs and enhance productivity. “AI, much like the Industrial Revolution, has the potential to create new opportunities and more rewarding jobs. “It is essential to use AI to enhance productivity while still relying on human judgment, which remains as crucial as the technology itself,” she noted. Furthermore, Francke believed that the role of human capital in Malaysia’s economic development is critical. “Investing in management and leadership skills is key to unlocking productivity and growth. “Malaysia’s proactive approach to skills planning and development via entities like the Human Resource Development Corporation and TalentCorp sets a strong foundation for future success,” she said. Discussing CMI’s strategic partnerships with stakeholders in Malaysia, Francke highlighted their role in enhancing the nation’s competitiveness and economic growth. She said that CMI has 25 partners in Malaysia, primarily universities, training providers, and several government agencies. “These collaborations are fostering a new generation of confident and competent leaders, essential for the nation’s economic growth. “For example, Universiti Tun Abdul Razak was CMI’s first partner in Malaysia, playing a significant role in training government civil servants. “These partnerships are instrumental in equipping Malaysia’s future leaders with the necessary skills to thrive in today’s competitive environment,” she added. Tech firms urged to ensure graduates ready for AI KUALA LUMPUR: Technology industry players must step up to ensure that graduates are ready to meet surging demand for artificial intelligence (AI) talents, while also urging the government to support this initiative. Associate Professor Dr Mohd Naz’ri Mahrin, dean of Universiti Teknologi Malaysia’s (UTM) Faculty of Artificial Intelligence (FAI), highlighted that the lack of AI talent is a significant challenge for companies globally, as nations recognise AI’s potential to boost their GDP. According to the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation’s AI Roadmap (2021-2025), Malaysia’s GDP baseline growth is about 4.4%, with an additional 1.2% growth to be driven by AI. As such, Mohd Naz’ri emphasised the need for industry players to take the steps necessary to address the talent gap. “There is never enough talent, and with the growing demand for technical skills, this shortage indicates a growing economy, which is a positive thing. “Countries with a strong AI-skilled workforce and a supportive ecosystem are more likely to attract and see an increasing inflow of foreign investments,“ he said. To this end, Mohd Naz’ri said that UTM’s FAI will introduce the Bachelor of Science in AI programme in October this year, where students will undertake a three-year course that will equip them with the skills they need to succeed in the AI field. “AI is not new to UTM. It originally stems from computer science and engineering, which are core strengths of UTM, Malaysia’s premier university in engineering and technology. We have been prioritising AI since 1997,“ he added. He projected that the country would need between 100,000 and 200,000 AI professionals within five years to support Malaysia’s economic growth in the long term. “This demand will continue to increase as the local industries undertake more digital transformation initiatives in their respective organisations,” said Mohd Naz’ri. He added that UTM is open to partnerships with industry players to promote research and development in AI and machine learning, aiming to embed these advancements into Malaysia’s tech landscape. He stressed the importance of having all stakeholders including academics, industry players, and technology providers on board in this journey. “A good ecosystem is essential to approach the integration of AI with a balanced perspective, considering ethical implications, privacy concerns and the need for digital literacy. “By addressing these challenges head-on, we can create a resilient and sustainable digital ecosystem that supports Malaysia’s growth and prosperity,” he said. – Bernama and 7.8%, respectively. The IPI further improved significantly in the first quarter of 2024 by 3.3% year-on-year. In terms of sales value, the manufacturing sector rose by 1.4% in March 2024, continuing a positive year-on-year trend for the third consecutive month and reaching RM158.4 billion. This growth was primarily driven by the sub-sectors of non-metallic mineral products, basic metal & fabricated metal products (9.6%); wood, furniture, paper products & printing (3.4%); and electrical & electronics products (2.3%). For the first quarter of 2024, the sector’s sales value rebounded to a 1.8% increase, totalling RM457.3 billion. Examining Malaysia’s services sector in the first quarter of 2024, the sector recorded an annual growth of 6.1% with a revenue of RM594.5 billion. This growth was contributed by the wholesale & retail trade, food & beverage and accommodation which expanded by 5.4% year-on-year to RM451.6 billion as against the same quarter last year. The Services Volume Index rose 4.5% to 150.4 points in this quarter. Looking at the prices, Malaysia’s inflation rate remained 1.8% in March 2024 with the index points recorded at 132.2 as against 129.9 in the same month of the previous year. This growth was mainly influenced by increases in restaurant & accommodation services, 3%; housing, water, electricity, gas & other fuels, 3% and personal care, social protection & miscellaneous goods & services, 2.6%. The first quarter 2024 inflation increased to 1.7% year-on-year as compared to the same quarter of the preceding year. As for April 2024, the inflation remained at 1.8% for three consecutive months with the index points recorded at 132.4 as against 130 in the same month of the previous year.

BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE TUESDAY | JUNE 4, 2024 20 Maximising M’sia’s halal industry potential for business impact THE halal industry has emerged as a global force, driven by a growing Muslim population and increased awareness of halal-certified products. According to projections, this industry is set to soar to US$9.71 trillion (RM46 trillion) by 2025. In Malaysia, it makes a significant contribution to the GDP, accounting for 7.8% in 2018, and it is expected to rise to 11% by 2030. For foodpanda Malaysia, this represents a compelling opportunity. With Malaysia’s halal industry aiming to contribute 8.1% to the GDP and generate RM56 billion in export revenue by 2030, as outlined in the 12th Malaysia Plan, it is recognised as a strategic sector by the government. As the global halal market expands, projected to hit RM22.34 trillion by 2030, Malaysia is wellpositioned to capitalise on this growth. This trend is not only benefiting local residents but also Muslim travellers seeking authentic halal Malaysian cuisine. The importance of halal market to foodpanda Malaysia We launched bekal by foodpanda to meet the increasing demand for halal food delivery services. Acknowledging the rising desire for halal options among consumers, bekal by foodpanda was created as a dedicated platform offering genuine halal-certified meals being delivered to the public. This initiative directly addresses concerns regarding the authenticity and halal compliance of food deliveries, guaranteeing customers the integrity of the meals they order. Regular food delivery users often express worries about the authenticity and halal status of the food they order. With bekal by foodpanda, we alleviate these concerns by ensuring that all the food we deliver are halal-certified via a halal-certified delivery fleet, offering peace of mind to consumers. By the end of 2022, our supply delivery service had garnered official recognition from Jakim (Department of Islamic Development Malaysia). This certification underscores our commitment to delivering halalcertified meals, further reassuring our customers, as the only halalcertified food delivery service in Malaysia. Understanding the significance of halal in business “Halal” represents adherence to Islamic principles and ethical standards, extending beyond food preparations. For us, operating bekal by foodpanda as a halal-certified delivery platform encompasses several crucial aspects. Firstly, we prioritise rigorous certification processes by exclusively partnering with halal-certified vendors only. We ensure that vendors meet strict halal requirements through close collaboration with Jakim. This certification not only instills confidence in customers but also assures them of the authenticity and purity of the food they order. Maintaining transparency in the supply chain – from ingredient sourcing to delivery – is paramount to ensure alignment with halal guidelines. This commitment extends to our delivery partners, who undergo special training in handling halal-certified orders. Moreover, we actively engage with the local halal community through event participation, collaborations with halal organisations, and soliciting feedback to enhance services. In a dynamic marketplace where consumer trust, social responsibility, and market expansion are crucial, bekal by foodpanda emerges as a pioneering force, bridging the gap between consumer preferences and business innovation. Nurturing collaboration with delivery partners and vendors At the heart of our operations lies a commitment to empower our delivery partners and vendors. By fostering an environment of trust, responsibility, and excellence, we pave the way for mutual growth and success as stated below: 0 Customer Trust A cornerstone of bekal by foodpanda’s success lies in its halal certification, fostering trust among consumers. Recent research underscores the preference of Muslim consumers for halal-certified food delivery services, affirming our strategic alignment with evolving consumer needs and preferences. 0 Market Expansion By catering to the burgeoning segment of halal-conscious customers, we strategically expand our market reach, tapping into a rapidly growing market segment. This proactive approach not only widens the customer base but also fosters heightened brand loyalty, positioning foodpanda as a frontrunner in the competitive food delivery landscape. 0 Social Responsibility This initiative exemplifies our broader commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR). With a focus on uplifting communities, our initiatives resonate with consumers, showcasing a brand ethos rooted in social impact and community empowerment. For instance, foodpanda Malaysia, in collaboration with Coca-Cola Malaysia and Viu, recently initiated a nationwide food basket distribution programme in partnership with local NGO MyFundAction to support and distribute over 10,000 food baskets to families in need across Malaysia. 0 Elevating Standards DHE Logistics Malaysia Sdn Bhd, the powerhouse behind bekal by foodpanda, sets industry benchmarks as the only halal food delivery company in Malaysia recognised by Jakim. Accredited by the Food Handler Training School (SLPM) under the Ministry of Health Malaysia (KKM), this initiative exemplifies excellence in halal logistics and delivery services. 0 Unlocking Growth Potential Since its inception, bekal by foodpanda has witnessed exponential growth, highlighting its market relevance and consumer appeal. With a steady growth rate, the business trajectory has shown its strategic positioning and unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. Empowering growth and shared success with bekal by foodpanda Embracing halal practices isn’t just a business strategy; it’s a testament to inclusivity and cultural sensitivity. By tapping into the growing halal market, businesses unlock vast opportunities, catering to Muslim consumers, and health-conscious and ethically-minded individuals. Market statistics underscore the immense growth potential of the halal industry, which positions it as a lucrative avenue for business expansion and revenue growth. As we embark on this journey alongside our vendors and delivery partners, we are witnessing their remarkable success stories unfold with bekal by foodpanda. It’s incredible to see vendors experiencing growth in sales of halal certified cuisine. From an expanding customer base to heightened branding visibility, the impact of choosing this initiative is clear. The decision has significantly benefited our delivery partners, who exclusively serve from halal-certified restaurants. They appreciate the flexibility and competitive earnings provided by the gig economy while navigating bustling streets. Together, these experiences embody the essence of bekal by foodpanda — a journey of growth, fulfilment, and shared success. Expanding on stories such as these, or the impact they represent, is not only a testament to our commitment but also contributes significantly to the aspirations and targets of the Malaysian halal industry. As the first and only halal delivery company in the world, bekal by foodpanda is positioned to lead and support industry partners in moving forward. Pioneering the path forward for the halal Industry in Malaysia We strongly encourage other businesses, especially restaurant owners and SMEs, to join us in obtaining halal certification and be part of bekal by foodpanda. With more SMEs embracing halal certification, we envision a flourishing halal industry in Malaysia, seizing the global growth opportunities it presents. In essence, the success stories of bekal by foodpanda highlight its transformative impact on vendors, delivery partners, and the broader business landscape. As a symbol of innovation and inclusivity, it showcases the potential of the halal platform to drive positive change and foster economic empowerment. Businesses are urged to take heed of the halal example and lead the way in embracing diversity and cultural sensitivity. As bekal by foodpanda continues to thrive, we aspire to inspire more SMEs to grow alongside us, unlocking fresh possibilities and shaping the future of commerce. This article is contributed by Amri Sham, head of public affairs at foodpanda Malaysia and chairman of the halal committee, DHE Logistics Malaysia Sdn Bhd. Sime Darby Property wins silver award at Fiabci World Prix d’Excellence ARA DAMANSARA: Sime Darby Property Bhd was honoured for its leading efforts in urban biodiversity at the 2024 Fiabci World Prix d’Excellence Awards in Singapore. The Elmina Rainforest Knowledge Centre (ERKC) of the group won a silver award in the Environmental Category. This acknowledges its contributions to environmental literacy, urban biodiversity conservation, and positive sustainability impact on Malaysia’s real estate industry. Organised by the Federation Internationale des Administrateurs de Bien-Conselis Immobiliers (Fiabci), the Fiabci World Prix d’Excellence Awards recognise projects that best embody excellence in all real estate disciplines involved in their creation. “ERKC demonstrates our dedication to preserving, regenerating, and strengthening healthy ecosystems in all our townships and developments,” said Sime Darby Property managing director, Datuk Azmir Merican. “The purpose of ERKC includes fostering urban biodiversity through concerted conservation action, research, and development.” Situated in the City of Elmina, the 1.09-acre ERKC is a one-stop centre for forestry research, conservation, environmental education, recreation, eco-tourism and other sustainable initiatives. ERKC oversees integrated approaches to urban planning, balancing society’s requirements and the ecosystem’s health. Nestled within the 300-acre Elmina Central Park and adjacent to the 2,700-acre Bukit Cherakah Forest Reserve, the ERKC was launched in October 2020 in partnership with the Tropical Rainforest Conservation and Research Centre (TRCRC). The project has already made strides in conservation efforts, with the cultivation of 187 species of plants, including 35,000 seedlings and 10,000 tree saplings at the Elmina Living Collection Nursery (ELCN). Many of the seedlings and saplings grown at ERKC have also been taken to other areas of Sime Darby Property’s chief operating officer (Township Development) Appollo Leong (right) accepting the 2024 Fiabci World Prix d’Excellence Awards in Singapore. Selangor for conservation efforts. Over a thousand have been planted near the Klang Gates Dam along the Klang River. This effort is well on track to achieve the Group’s broader objectives to plant 50,000 trees from the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) Red List by 2030. In addition to environmental conservation, the ERKC and ELCN have become focal points for community engagement and education, hosting various programmes that promote awareness of environmental issues and encourage active participation in conservation efforts. The Friends of ERKC community interest group further exemplifies this engagement, attracting over 10,000 members, including students, educators, and representatives from various corporate and authority bodies. Sime Darby Property remains steadfast in upholding its Vision of Advancing Real Estate as a Force for Collective Progress, in Harmony with the Planet’s Resources. “Urban biodiversity goes beyond just flora and fauna; it’s about the health of our environment and its impact on all forms of life. This award underscores our efforts in connecting communities and nature to ultimately enhance people’s lives and well-being and the planet’s overall health,” said Azmir. He added: “We thank Fiabci for acknowledging our potential and look forward to consistently delivering liveability and sustainability for the benefit of all.”

Lion City ion City attractions attractions Reasons to cross the Causeway easons to cross the Causeway – P22 TUESDAY | JUNE 4, 2024 Editorial T: 03-7784 6688 F: 03-7785 2625 E: [email protected] Advertising T: 03-7784 8888 E: [email protected] SCAN ME INSIDE p 23 Unesco sites traveller p 24 Cutivating mindfulness p 25 Lennon guitar sold at auction p 26 Le French festival 2024 kicks off – 123RFPIC WEEKLY FOCUS MONDAY Technology and social media TUESDAY Travel and leisure WEDNESDAY Fashion and beauty THURSDAY Home and living FRIDAY Food and beverage

LYFE LYFE TUESDAY | JUNE 4, 2024 22 New attractions in Singapore S I N G A P O R E w e l c o m e d 420,030 visitor arrivals from Malaysia between January and April this year, from a total of 5.7 million visitors globally. Malaysia was Singapore’s third largest source market in 2023, with Malaysians spending an average 2.43 days in the island last year. With the Singapore Tourism Board projecting between 15 million –16.5 million international tourists by the end of the year, the Lion City has new attractions for visitors to experience. Singapore Cable Car SkyOrb The new futuristic SkyOrb Cabins have launched on the Singapore Cable Car – Mount Faber Line as part of Singapore Cable Car’s 50th anniversary celebrations. Exclusively designed for the Singapore Cable Car, the SkyOrb Cabin is the world’s first chromefinished spherical cable car cabin. Unlike conventional cabins, the spherical design of the SkyOrb Cabins breaks the boundaries of traditional cable car aesthetics, offering a futuristic and space-age look. Sentosa Sensoryscape This is a ridge-to-reef landmark connecting guests from Resorts World Sentosa in the north to Sentosa’s golden beaches in the south with an immersive, multi-sensory experience. The new experiential attraction is the first milestone of the Sentosa-Brani Master Plan. The National Heritage – Heritage Activation Node The inaugural Heritage Activation Node (HAN) was launched in the Katong-Joo Chiat precinct, renowned for its multicultural heritage, colourful shophouses, and picturesque restaurants. HAN @ Katong-Joo Chiat marks the first in a series of HANs which will be introduced in various neighbourhoods this year onwards. Harry Potter: Visions of Magic Set for later this year is the eagerly anticipated Harry Potter: Visions of Magic. Created by Warner Bros Discovery Global Themed Entertainment and experiential entertainment company NEON, the exhibit will debut in Asia at Resorts World Sentosa. It is an evocative and interactive art experience exploring some of the most mysterious corners of the wizarding world like the Room of Requirement, Newt’s Menagerie, the Ministry of Magic and more. Naruto: The Gallery Anime fans have a reason to celebrate as Naruto: The Gallery makes its firstever international debut at Universal Studios Singapore at Resorts World Sentosa, from now to June 30. Following its showing in Japan at Harry Potter: Visions of Magic oUpcoming tourism experiences for visitors to explore across the Causeway Impressions of Monet at Gardens by the Bay. Naruto: The Gallery. – PIC BY SL EXPERIENCES Singapore Cable Car SkyOrb. Akiba Square in Akihabara UDX, the exhibition in Singapore will bring to life the iconic ninja world created by Masashi Kishimoto. Impressions of Monet @ Gardens By The Bay In July, visitors to Gardens by the Bay’s Flower Dome will get to experience a unique exhibition that seamlessly combines multi-sensory immersion and the beauty of nature with Impressions of Monet. It is centred on the art, life and gardens of the master of Impressionism, the French painter Claude Monet. Wellness Festival Singapore Held from June 21 to July 21, this year’s festival will run for four weeks, with more than 120 programmes from over 75 partners ranging from established to new wellness, lifestyle and hotel brands. These programmes will be located conveniently across six precincts islandwide, promoting physical, emotional and mental well-being. For its third edition, the Singapore Tourism Board will be collaborating with Exceed Sports and Entertainment, founder of homegrown wellness event, Glow Festival, to present the WFS’s anchor event “Glow Festival by Prudential”. Singapore Oceanarium As part of Resorts World Sentosa’s expansion plans, the S.E.A. Aquarium will be expanded to three times its size and rebranded as the Singapore Oceanarium. It will showcase a larger scale and depth of content through state-of-the-art digital innovation and interactive technology. Illumination’s Minion Land in Universal Studios Singapore Universal Studios Singapore will see the introduction of Illumination’s Minion Land, which will feature the world’s first original ride exclusive to Universal Studios Singapore, as well as Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, an immersive motion-simulator 3D ride featuring a hyper-realistic projection system, along with a variety of rides as well as themed restaurants and shops across the zone. Porsche Experience Centre in Singapore The Porsche Experience Centre (PEC) in Singapore will be the world’s first regional PEC conceptualised to captivate car enthusiasts both locally and throughout the Southeast Asian region. Mandai Rainforest Resort by Banyan Tree Sitting on a 4.6ha site where native tree species have been thoughtfully planted in harmony with the forest scape, the 338-room resort comprises a four-storey building with standard and family rooms, as well as facilities like a ballroom and meeting rooms, a state-of-the-art gym and a rooftop swimming pool. Outside there are 24 elevated seed pod-shaped tree houses among the lush greenery. The concept of the resort is sympathetic to the existing vegetation, treelines and natural topography. It is designed to be unobtrusive, sitting below the upper canopy layer of the surrounding trees. Mandai Rainforest Resort will also debut as the first-ever super low energy resort in the country. Rainforest Wild Asia and Africa Rainforest Wild Asia is the first zoological park in Asia to integrate adventure elements into its design. A variety of paths will cater to different expeditions, to facilitate sightings of animals like the Malayan tiger, Malayan sun bear and François’ langur. Over at Rainforest Wild Africa, guests will experience an AfroTropical and Madagascar-inspired landscape featuring animals such as the Pygmy hippo and the elusive Okapi, a species that will be making its debut in Singapore. Exploria, Curiosity Cove, Mandai Gallery, Green Canvas and ZooSchool @ Mandai Wildlife Reserve Visitors to Exploria will discover reallife phenomena in hyper-natural environments across five worlds through digital expeditions, and a collaborative space where travelling exhibitions, nature-themed lifestyle events and stimulating talks will be hosted, aimed at championing nature and wildlife conservation. At the Mandai Wildlife Reserve, visitors will experience the reserve’s history and heritage, while in Curiosity Cove, families will be enveloped in an indoor nature setting that is accessible for young children. With a tailored curriculum blending outdoor and wildlife education, coupled with park visits, Zoo School aims to instil in young minds a profound appreciation and care for the natural world.

LYFE LYFE TUESDAY | JUNE 4, 2024 23 prestigious title. Places like Pahang, our Gunung Mulu, and Malaysia’s own Georgetown are World Heritage Sites. That sparked my interest. Why do these sites qualify? What’s their story? “For each site, I go and discover the story behind it. That’s how it all started. My curiosity turned into a deep interest, and then slowly, it became a passion.” Goh’s journey evolved from a simple interest to a driven quest. “It became an adventure, a passion. I had to go and see why each site was deemed a heritage site. It’s a never-ending curiosity that keeps me going.” Challenges along the way “Not all heritage sites are conveniently located. You can’t just take the underground and pop out at a site. Some are deep in forests, some are in mountains, and some are in remote villages. You have to plan your route carefully and have the tenacity to seek them out,” he advises. Venturing to these sites often means venturing into less-travelled areas. MOST people see vacations as a time to unwind and enjoy beautiful places, but for this one particular individual, these journeys take on a much deeper meaning. Meet Alex Goh Shaw Peng, whose travels transcend typical holiday escapades. Having ventured to an impressive 255 Unesco World Heritage Sites, Goh, 63, recently secured a place in the Malaysia Book of Records with his self-published project My Heritage Journey. His pursuit is not just about setting records; it is about breathing life into history and culture, earning him the moniker “heritage hunter.” Goh embarked on a mission to explore, photograph and document the world’s most cherished sites with only one ultmate goal – keeping heritage alive. For Goh, it is not just about setting records; it is about living his lifelong passion. Along with being the first Malaysian to complete the world’s top 10 marathon races, his achievements demonstrate his extraordinary dedication and never-ending pursuit of his dreams. In an interview with theSun, Goh shares insights into his journey, from the challenges of heritage hunting to the joy of uncovering hidden gems. He sheds light on his planning process, the significance of understanding historical context, and his mission to inspire others to explore the world’s heritage. Journey into record books What started as a mere hobby for Goh soon turned into a competitive passion. He became part of a community of world heritage enthusiasts who keep track of the number of sites visited, with league tables and rankings to see who has visited the most. When Goh updated his 255th site, he realised he had the highest count among his peers. “With the ranking, I came back and realised I was the highest-ranked Malaysian. I decided to approach the Malaysia Book of Records and ask if they’d be interested in recognising it. They were keen, so I submitted all my proof, including videos to make it easier for them to assess. In April, they confirmed it. “Normally, they ask where you’d like the certificate presented. I could have gone to their office, but I wanted to make it special. This is a huge honour for me and my hometown of Muar, Johor. So, I asked if they could come to Muar for the presentation. We arranged to have it in an old heritage building that holds personal significance for my family,” he adds. With the Malaysia Book of Records agreeing, the event was set, marking not just a personal triumph for Goh, but also a moment of pride for his community. Boy scout beginnings “I always say that by nature, I’m a Boy Scout. Boy Scouts love to travel and go on adventures. We like to explore and do things, and my interests naturally followed suit. I love photography, and I have a deep fascination with history and geography. When you combine all that, it naturally leads to heritage hunting,” Goh explains. His curiosity drove Goh to visit various sites. “I always wondered what it takes for a place to become a World Heritage Site. It’s a Keeping heritage alive Meet Goh, the ‘heritage hunter’. – ALL PICS COURTESY OF ALEX GOH Goh’s travels transcend the typical holiday escapades. For Goh, every trip is a mission to explore, photograph and document the world’s most treasured sites, keeping the spirit of heritage alive. The Johor native is also an avid marathon runner. █ BYHAZIQUE ZAIRILL Goh hopes that by visiting, photographing, and sharing the heritage sites, he can ignite some interest in others. oTraveller Alex Goh has visited an astounding 255 Unesco World Heritage Sites, earning him a coveted spot in the Malaysia Book of Records Goh became the first Malaysian to visit 255 Unesco sites. Turn to — page 24

LYFE LYFE TUESDAY | JUNE 4, 2024 24 READ OUR HERE /thesun Malaysian Paper “I’ve been to places in India, Nigeria, and many other countries. Sometimes I have to trek deep into jungles or hike up mountains. Not all of these places are popular tourist destinations. In fact, some of them have no tourists at all – sometimes, I’m the only one there,” he says with a laugh. Goh’s determination to explore these remote and often challenging locations speaks of his dedication. “You have to be prepared for anything and everything. Each journey requires careful planning and a lot of perseverance, but for me, it’s all worth it to uncover the stories and significance behind each heritage site,” he outlines. On-going quest When asked about his favourite sites, Goh smiles and says: “I get asked that a lot. There’s no favourite. Every place is special in its own way. Some sites are impressive and packed with visitors, while others can seem downright boring. But to me, each one holds its own unique story. “There are some historical places that are just a plain field. Most tourists might think there’s nothing to see and nothing worth posting on Instagram. But for someone like me, who knows the history, it’s fascinating. You can imagine it if you know the historical context and what makes it special.” Even at the less visually impressive sites, Goh finds meaning and value. “It’s about appreciating the history and the background of these places. Even if nothing remains, knowing what was there and its history is worth it. “Oh, I don’t stop,” Goh says with a laugh. “It’s more like a mission than a holiday now. My friends and family know this – when I go on a ‘holiday’, it’s all about discovering heritage sites, not relaxing or shopping. There are 1,199 World Heritage Sites in the world, and I’ve only covered 255 so far. There’s still so much more to see.” Goh’s approach to travel has become highly organised and efficient. “For each country I visit, I plan my time to see as many sites as possible most efficiently.” Inspiring others “I have this tagline of ‘Keeping Heritage Alive.’ People talk about inspiring others, and while I don’t see myself as someone who inspires, I do hope that by visiting, photographing and sharing these heritage sites, I can ignite some interest,” he says of his travels. Goh’s passion extends beyond just young people. “It’s not just about the young; it’s for everyone. I want to encourage people to go out there and explore. There’s so much fascinating stuff out there. It’s not just about the beautiful scenery or impressive buildings. There are countless off-the-beaten-path places that hold incredible stories.” To truly appreciate these places, Goh emphasises the importance of understanding their context. “You must know the historical and geographical background. You need to understand the stories behind these sites. That’s what makes them come alive.” Through his extensive travels, photography, and published books, Goh aims to share these stories widely. “I hope that through my sharing, I can generate that interest. That’s all I’m hoping for – just to spark a curiosity and a desire to explore and understand the world’s heritage.” Marathon pursuits In addition to his heritage hunting, Goh is also passionate about marathons. “I completed my top 12 marathons, updating my previous top 10. The last one I did was in Hawaii in December. Each marathon is 42 kilometres, and while the last major one was in 2019, I still keep up with running as much as I can.” Goh’s marathons are not just about running – they are a showcase of creativity and personal flair. “Since 2014, starting with marathons in Osaka and Athens, I’ve worn different DIY outfits that I knit myself. From country flags to Iron Man and Captain America, I make an impact at every marathon I join. And the best part? I enjoy every moment of it,” he declares with a smile that speaks volumes about his zest for life. Record breaker to keep travelling From — page 23 MODERN existence, where schedules overflow and distractions abound, can make finding peace seem like an elusive dream. Yet, amid the chaos, lies a practice that offers a sanctuary of serenity: mindfulness. By integrating mindfulness into daily routines, individuals can unlock a multitude of benefits that ripple through every facet of life. At its core, mindfulness is the practice of cultivating a deliberate awareness of the present moment, free from judgement or attachment. It involves paying attention to thoughts, feelings, bodily sensations and the surrounding environment with openness and curiosity. Through simple yet profound practices like focused breathing, body scans or mindful walking, individuals anchor themselves in the here and now, fostering a deeper connection with themselves and the world around them. Here are the benefits of practicing mindfulness. Stress reduction We already know that stress has become a prevalent foe, undermining both mental and physical health. Mindfulness offers a reprieve from the relentless onslaught of stress-related factors. By learning to observe thoughts and emotions with gentle curiosity rather than getting swept away by them, individuals can cultivate a sense of inner peace amid external chaos. Through regular practice, the overactive mind gradually learns to quieten, paving the way for profound relaxation and rejuvenation. Emotional strength Life has its own highs and lows, but through mindfulness, individuals can develop emotional strengths. By cultivating awareness of their internal landscape, individuals gain insight into their habitual patterns of thought and behavior. This self-awareness allows them to respond to challenges with grace and composure, rather than reacting impulsively. By embracing the present moment with acceptance and compassion, individuals navigate life’s complexities with a sense of equanimity. Physical health benefits The benefits of mindfulness extend beyond mental well-being to encompass physical health. Research has shown that practicing mindfulness can have a tangible impact on various aspects of physical health. For instance, mindfulness-based interventions have been linked to lower blood pressure, improved immune function and reduced inflammation within the body. By creating a state of relaxation and reducing the harmful effects of chronic stress, mindfulness fosters an optimal environment for healing and well-being. Interpersonal relationships Mindfulness deepens interpersonal connections by fostering empathy and compassion. When individuals approach interactions with mindful presence, they listen with genuine curiosity and empathy, seeking to understand rather than judge. This mindful communication cultivates a deeper sense of connection and intimacy in relationships. By developing a greater understanding of oneself and others, mindfulness lays the groundwork for authentic and fulfilling connections that enrich the fabric of social interactions. Broader implications Mindfulness transcends individual benefits, holding the potential to shape society at large. By cultivating mindfulness within communities and institutions, we sow the seeds of empathy and understanding. In an interconnected world fraught with division and conflict, mindfulness offers a pathway to a more compassionate and harmonious society. By fostering a culture of mindfulness in schools, workplaces, and other social settings, we can create environments that nurture kindness and mutual respect. Moreover, mindfulness unleashes creativity and innovation, unlocking new possibilities in both personal and professional worlds. By quieting the mind’s chatter and cultivating a state of present-moment awareness, individuals tap into their innate creativity and intuition. This heightened awareness allows them to see problems from new perspectives and inspire others with their vision. As we navigate the complexities of existence, let us heed the wisdom of mindfulness, embracing each moment with open-hearted awareness and reverence. In doing so, we unlock the transformative power of presence, enriching our lives and the world around us with compassion and joy. Cultivating calm oTransformative power of mindfulness in daily life Practicing mindfulness through meditation improves your physical and mental health. – ALL PICS BY PEXELS Regular exercise can help focus the mind. It is useful to clear one’s mind of external noise. Learn to enjoy the moment. █ BYTHASHINE SELVAKUMARAN

LYFE LYFE TUESDAY | JUNE 4, 2024 25 Bumpy ride to comedy gold IN director Peter Farrelly’s new comedy Ricky Stanicky, audiences are taken on a rollercoaster of awkward moments and outright hilarity, culminating in a heartwarming tale of redemption. Starring Zac Efron, Jermaine Fowler, Andrew Santino and John Cena, this film is an ode to the idea that sometimes life just needs to be a little fun. A dodgy start The film opens with a painfully awkward prank gone wrong. Three childhood friends Dean (Efron), Wes (Fowler) and JT (Santino) set a bag of dog faeces on fire, John Lennon’s guitar breaks auction record A GUITAR once played by John Lennon has set a new record as the most expensive Beatle-owned instrument ever sold at auction. The Framus 12-string Hootenanny acoustic guitar fetched an astonishing US$2.9 million (RM13.6 million) via a telephone bid at the Hard Rock Cafe in New York. The guitar, presumed lost for over 50 years, was discovered in an attic. It was used by Lennon to record songs for the Beatles’ 1965 album Help! and its accompanying film, contributing to some of the band’s most iconic hits of the 60s. The sale was conducted by Julien’s Auctions, a rock & roll memorabilia auction house known for breaking world records with the sale of Beatles items. “We are absolutely thrilled and honoured to have set a new world record with the sale of Lennon’s lost Hootenanny guitar,” said Julien’s Auctions chief executive David Goodman in a statement. “This guitar is not only a piece of music history but a symbol of Lennon’s enduring legacy. The 12-string Hootenanny, which featured on the Help! album and film, had been missing for 50 years. – PIC BY JULIEN’S AUCTION oThe Beatle’s 12-string acoustic was found in British attic after being missing for half century █ BYHAZIQUE ZAIRILL The trio having fun before getting the call that is going to change their lives. – PICS COURTESY OF PRIME VIDEO Cheering for a better future together. Ricky Stanicky is streaming on Amazon’s Prime Video now. Cena as Ricky making his entrance for the first time. Today’s unprecedented sale is a testament to the timeless appeal and reverence of the Beatles’ music and Lennon.” After its use by the Beatles, the guitar was owned by Scottish guitarist Gordon Waller, half of the pop duo Peter & Gordon. Waller later gave the instrument to his band’s road managers. Decades later, it was rediscovered by new owners in the rural British countryside. Following his discovery of the guitar, Andy Babiuk and Beatles historian Danny Bennett examined it and confirmed that it was the same instrument that Lennon had used. This sale surpasses the previous record set by another of Lennon’s guitars, a long-lost Gibson J-160E acoustic guitar. That instrument, used by Lennon to compose and record hits like I Want to Hold Your Hand and All My Loving, sold for US$2.41 million at Julien’s Auctions. Other notable sales of Beatles memorabilia include Ringo Starr’s Ludwig drum kit, which sold for US$2.2 million, and a copy of the White Album owned by him. Enter former pro-wrestler Cena as Rock-Hard Rod, the flamboyant actor hired to impersonate the fictional Ricky Stanicky. Cena’s larger-than-life presence and impeccable comedic timing inject a much-needed burst of energy into the film. His performance is nothing short of hilarious, turning what could have been a forgettable comedy into a genuinely entertaining experience. Cena’s portrayal of Rod/Ricky is both over-the-top and endearing. His ability to switch from absurd humour to moments of sincere emotion adds depth to the character and elevates the entire movie. Whether he is singing outrageous parodies or executing a circumcision with a cigar cutter, Cena’s commitment to the role is evident and thoroughly entertaining. Tale of redemption Despite its slapstick exterior, Ricky Stanicky carries a surprisingly profound message. The film explores the notion that nobody is perfect and that sometimes, all one needs is a second chance to rebuild their life. Rod’s transformation from a struggling performer to a beloved “hero” underscores the theme of redemption. As the story unfolds, the trio’s web of lies begins to unravel, leading to a cascade of confessions and consequences. Yet, it is through these moments of truth that the characters find a chance to grow. Dean’s heartfelt apology and Rod’s candid reflection on his journey resonate with the idea that embracing one’s flaws can lead to personal growth and new opportunities. By the time the credits roll, Ricky Stanicky will very likely have won over its audience. The film’s closing montage, featuring Rod and friends engaging in charitable acts and celebrating life’s milestones, serves as a fitting end to this comedic journey. The viral TikTok remix of Summerhayes’ dance moves is the cherry on top, leaving viewers with a smile. While it starts with cringe-worthy antics, it is Cena’s infectious charm that transforms the movie into a must-see comedy. Embracing imperfection and the possibility of second chances, Ricky Stanicky delivers both laughs and heart, making it a delightful experience for audiences of all ages and genders. Ricky Stanicky is currently streaming on Prime Video. – by YASMIN ZULRAEZ inadvertently causing chaos that requires a scapegoat. Thus, the imaginary Ricky Stanicky is born. Fast forward 20 years and Ricky Stanicky is still the trio’s go-to excuse for dodging responsibilities and getting into trouble. The early scenes are laden with cringe-inducing antics and juvenile humour, almost testing the viewer’s patience. Dean, Wes, and JT’s shenanigans might elicit a few chuckles, but it is clear that the film is struggling to find its footing. However, just as the audience might be contemplating a hasty exit, a saving grace emerges. 0 DIRECTOR: Peter Farrelly 0 CAST: Zac Efron, John Cena, Andrew Santino, Jermaine Fowler, Lex Scott Davis E-VALUE 8 ACTING 7 PLOT 8

LYFE LYFE TUESDAY | JUNE 4, 2024 26 /thesuntelegram FOLLOW ON TELEGRAM Malaysian Paper The Le French Festival 2024 begins THE Le French Festival 2024 kicked off with a vibrant opening ceremony at GSC Midvalley, Kuala Lumpur last week. This annual celebration will be ongoing until July 14 and feature a variety of activities that highlight the richness of French culture. Attendees can look forward to films, exhibitions, workshops, French heritage trails, a pétanque tournament, classical music performances, a family weekend and a free concert in celebration of International Music Day. Starting in Kuala Lumpur, the festival will then travel to Penang, Johor and Kuching, ensuring a broad reach and a variety of experiences Organisers and sponsors at the Le French Festival opening ceremony. – PIC BY AMIRUL SHAFIQ/THESUN oExperience everything fabulous about France at annual event █ BYTHASHINE SELVAKUMARAN Watsons Malaysia champions marine conservation with CSR initiatives WATSONS Malaysia has donated RM20,000 to support the marine conservation project at Tioman Island, boosting efforts to protect and restore precious marine ecosystems. The donation, generated from sales of the 2024 Watsons calendar nationwide, directly benefits Reef Check Malaysia and indirectly supports 80 members of the Tioman Marine Conservation Group, as well as the community of Tioman Island. This initiative aims to build capacity among local islanders to manage marine resources and actively participate in Watsons Malaysia general manager of marketing and customer growth Danny Hoh (left) presents the mock cheque to Reef Check Malaysia chief programme officer Alvin Chelliah. Watsons Malaysia is committed to environmental sustainability with a series of initiatives aimed at marine conservation. for all attendees. The festival aims to celebrate French culture and strengthen the bonds between Malaysian and French communities. The opening ceremony began with a cocktail party, followed by speeches from notable guests. Golden Screen Cinemas CEO Koh Mei Lee expressed her enthusiasm for the event and praised the collaboration with Alliance Française de Kuala Lumpur (AFKL). She highlighted the festival’s diverse movie selection, catering to all tastes. AFKL president Tengku Zatashah Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah shared her excitement about the dance competitions, which should highlight some young talent. French Ambassador to Malaysia Axel Cruau extended his gratitude to sponsors and organisers, emphasising that their involvement is central to the event’s success. Major sponsors, including L’Oréal Paris, Cartier, Paul Malaysia and Safran were present at the ceremony. Attendees received goodie bags featuring L’Oréal beauty products. The Le French Festival 2024 is set to offer an enjoyable and enriching experience for all participants, celebrating the vibrant French culture in Malaysia. conservation work, fostering sustainable practices for future generations. As part of the sustainability effort, Watsons organised a three-day Coral Rehabilitation and Cultivation Sustainability Programme recently at Barat Tioman Island. Inviting over 22 media and influencers, the programme included activities such as deploying reef restoration blocks, building reef restoration blocks using recycled glass waste, and snorkeling to raise awareness about marine conservation. Coral reefs are invaluable ecosystems, playing a pivotal role both ecologically and economically. They serve as vital habitats for an astonishing 33% of all known fish species, contributing significantly to marine biodiversity. Beyond their ecological importance, coral reefs are a crucial food source for millions of people worldwide, particularly in coastal communities reliant on fishing. Moreover, these vibrant ecosystems act as natural barriers, safeguarding 20% of the world’s coasts from the erosive forces of waves. Thus, the preservation of coral reefs is not only essential for the health of marine life but also for the well-being of coastal communities and economies. “As Malaysia’s health and beauty retailer, we are safeguarding our marine resources and contributing to conservation efforts. We hope to inspire others to join us in protecting our oceans and marine life,” said Watsons Malaysia managing director and Watsons International exclusives director Caryn Loh. The expedition coincided with the launch of the special edition Naturals by Watsons Algae range, highlighting Watsons’ dedication to sustainable practices. A sustainable DIY workshop was also conducted, showcasing the recyclable bottle packaging and promoting recycling awareness among participants. Reef Check Malaysia, a non-profit organisation established in 2007, leads long-term community programmes to promote coral reef conservation in Malaysia. Through partnerships with organisations like Watsons Malaysia, Reef Check Malaysia works to train local islanders in conservation work and alternative livelihood training, contributing to the preservation of coral reefs and marine biodiversity.

SPORTS SPORTS TUESDAY | JUNE 4, 2024 27 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF NIAN CEMERLANG SDN. BHD. (200601016783) (736535-H) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding Up) At the General Meeting of the members of the abovenamed Company duly convened and held at No. 81 (2nd Floor), Jalan Market, 30000 Ipoh, Perak on the 1st day of June, 2024, the Special Resolution set out below was duly passed :- That the Company be wound up voluntarily pursuant to Section 439(1)(b) of the Companies Act 2016 and that Mr. Chai Chee Phin be appointed as Liquidator of the Company for the purpose of the winding-up and that the said Liquidator be empowered to distribute amongst the members, in cash or specie, the whole or any part of the surplus assets of the Company. PATRICK CHEE YEAN CHAI DIRECTOR 4 June 2024 AND NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVENthat the Creditors of the abovenamed Company are required on or before the 5th day of July, 2024 to send their names, addresses and the particulars of their debts or claims to the undersigned, the Liquidator of the said Company at No. 81 (2nd Floor), Jalan Market, 30000 Ipoh, Perak and if so required, are to come in and prove their debts and claims at such time and place as shall be specified in such Notice or in default will be excluded from the benefit of any distribution made before such debts are proved. CHAI CHEE PHIN LIQUIDATOR 4 June 2024 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF HIGHLAND ESCAPADE SDN. BHD. 201301010869 (1040706-T) (In Member’s Voluntary Winding Up) At a General Meeting of the Member of the abovenamed Company held on 28-05-2024, the following special resolution was duly passed:- “THAT the Company be wound up voluntarily pursuant to section 439(1) (b) of the Companies Act 2016 and that Mr. Lai Chung En and Ms. Chan Bee Lee of Suite 15, 6th Floor, IOI Business Park, Bandar Puchong Jaya, 47170 Puchong, Selangor be and are hereby appointed as Liquidators for the purpose of such winding up with all powers given under section 456 and the Eleventh Schedule of the Companies Act 2016.” Dated this 04-06-2024 THERESA FLORENCE JUNE GIOVAGNOLI Director IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF HIGHLAND ESCAPADE SDN. BHD. 201301010869 (1040706-T) (In Member’s Voluntary Winding Up) Notice is hereby given that the Creditors of the above Company, which is being voluntarily wound up, are required on or before 05-07-2024 to send in their names and addresses with particulars of their debts and claims and of any security held by them and the names and addresses of their Solicitors (if any) to the undersigned Liquidators at Suite 15, 6th Floor, IOI Business Park, Bandar Puchong Jaya, 47170 Puchong, Selangor and if so required by notice in writing from the said Liquidators are by their Solicitors or personally to come and prove their debts or claims at such time and place as shall be specified in such notice or in default thereof they will be excluded from the benefit of any distribution made before such debts or claims are proved. Dated this 04-06-2024 CHAN BEE LEE LAI CHUNG EN Liquidators DALAM MAHKAMAH MAJISTRET DI JOHOR BAHRU DALAM NEGERI JOHOR DARUL TAKZIM, MALAYSIA WRIT NO. JA-A72NCVC-21-01/2024 ANTARA ARVIN A/L GURUSAMY (NO. K/P : 930105-01-6481) … PLAINTIF DAN RAMES A/L SOLAMUTHU (NO. K/P : 680501-01-6599) … DEFENDAN NOTIS PENYAMPAIAN GANTI- BENTUK IKLAN Kepada:- RAMES A/L SOLAMUTHU No.7, Jalan Sentosa 5, Taman Nusa Damai, 81700 Pasir Gudang, Johor Darul Takzim. AMBIL PERHATIAN bahawa suatu tindakan Tuntutan Sivil bertarikh 8 Januari 2024 telah dimulakan di Mahkamah Majistret Johor Bahru melalui kes No. JAA72NCVC-21-01/2024 oleh Plaintif, Arvin a/l Gurusamy yang beralamat di No.7, Jalan Sentosa 5, Taman Nusa Damai, 81700 Pasir Gudang, Johor Darul Takzim. Dan telah diperintahkan melalui Perintah Penyampaian Ganti Mahkamah bertarikh 25 April 2024 bahawa, penyampaian satu salinan termeterai Writ Saman bertarikh 8 Januari 2024, Pernyataan Tuntutan bertarikh 5 Januari 2024 tersebut kepada kamu dalam tindakan tersebut hendaklah diserahkan melalui penyampaian ganti dengan menampalkan satu salinan kertas-kertas kausa tersebut di papan notis Mahkamah Majistret Johor Bahru dan di alamat terakhir Responden di No.7, Jalan Sentosa 5, Taman Nusa Damai, 81700 Pasir Gudang, Johor Darul Takzim dan dengan mengiklankan Notis ini sekali di dalam akhbar tempatan The Sun. Penampalan dan pengiklanan tersebut hendaklah dianggap penyampaian sempurna dan cukup ke atas kamu tujuh (7) hari selepas tarikh penampalan dan pengiklanan tersebut. Sekiranya kamu berhasrat untuk membantah Tuntutan Sivil ini, kamu mestilah dalam tempoh tujuh (7) hari daripada penyampaian ganti ini menghadirikan diri sama ada secara sendiri atau melalui peguambela kamu di Mahkamah, yang mana kegagalan untuk memasukkan kehadiran akan menyebabkan suatu Perintah seperti dipohon oleh Arvin a/l Gurusamy direkodkan terhadap kamu dalam ketidakhadiran kamu. SILA AMBIL PERHATIAN bahawa Tuntutan Sivil tersebut ditetapkan untuk pendengaran di hadapan Hakim pada 13 Jun 2024 pada 9:00 pagi bertempat di Mahkamah Majistret Sivil Johor Bahru, Tingkat 23A, Menara MSC Cyberport, No. 5 Jalan Bukit Meldrum, 80300 Johor Bahru, Johor. Bertarikh pada 25 April 2024. T.T ……………………… Tetuan G. K. Sritharan & Co. NOTIS PENYAMPAIAN GANTI-BENTUK IKLAN ini difailkan oleh Tetuan G.K. Sritharan & Co., Peguambela dan Peguamcara yang mempunyai alamat di Unit 6.05, Tingkat 6, Menara TJB, No. 9, Jalan Syed Mohd Mufti, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, peguamcara Plaintif (Ruj No.: GKS/LIT/3491/23). DALAM MAHKAMAH MAJISTRET DI SEREMBAN DALAM NEGERI SEMBILAN DARUL KHUSUS, MALAYSIA GUAMAN SIVIL NO: NA-A72NCvC-108-03/2024 ANTARA COLUMBIA ASIA SDN. BHD. (No. Pendaftaran: 199601016009 [388359-P]) …PLAINTIF DAN NUR SHAHIRAH BINTI ABDULLAH (No. K/P: 770315-08-6162) …DEFENDAN PENYAMPAIAN GANTI-BENTUK IKLAN Kepada :- NUR SHAHIRAH BINTI ABDULLAH (No. K/P: 770315-08-6162) B-4-24, Pangsapuri Bandar Tasik Kesuma, 43700 Beranang, Selangor. Ambil perhatian bahawa suatu tindakan telah dimulakan terhadap kamu dalam Writ No. NA-A72NCvC-108-03/2024 oleh COLUMBIA ASIA SDN. BHD. (No. Pendaftaran: 199601016009 [388359-P]) yang mempunyai alamat penyampaian di Tingkat 7, Wisma Consplant 1, No. 2, Jalan SS16/4, 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor dan mempunyai perniagaan bergelar Columbia Asia Hospital Tebrau yang beralamat di No. 292 & Lot 1904, Jalan Haruan 2, Oakland Commercial Centre, 70300 Seremban, Negeri Sembilan, dalam mana tuntutan plaintif untuk jumlah wang sebanyak RM 9,489-70 dengan faedah 5% setahun ke atas jumlah penghakiman mulai tarikh pemfailan Writ Saman sehingga tarikh penyelesaian sepenuhnya. Dan bahawa telah diperintahkan bahawa penyampaian writ itu dalam tindakan tersebut kepada kamu kena dilaksanakan melalui iklan ini. Jika kamu berhasrat untuk membela dalam tindakan tersebut kamu mestilah dalam masa 7 hari dari tarikh tersiarnya iklan ini, termasuk hari penyiaran itu, memasukkan kehadiran di Pejabat Pendaftaran Mahkamah. Jika ingkar apa-apa kehadiran yang demikian maka penghakiman boleh dibuat terhadap kamu. Bertarikh pada 15 Mei, 2024. -T.T- ……………….…… Peguamcara Plaintif Penyampaian Ganti (Bentuk Iklan) ini difailkan oleh Kelvin Wong, Phang & Associates, Peguamcara Plaintif beralamat di Block J-3A-04, Setiawalk, Pusat Bandar Puchong, 47160 Puchong, Selangor, Malaysia. Tel: 603-8600 2162, Faks: 603-8600 2163; Emel: [email protected] (Ruj kami : LIT/KWPA/2224/ Columbia(SBN)/N.Shahirah/h) 322 Notices 322 Notices IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF CHEONG HING FLAG MAKER SDN. BHD. 199401025455 (311136-M) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-Up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to Section 439(2)(b) of the Companies Act, 2016, that the following Special Resolution was passed by the Members of the Company on the 1st June 2024. THAT the Company be wound up voluntarily in accordance with Section 439(1)(b) of the Companies Act 2016 and that Ms. Liong Lian Chun of Messrs. Liong & Associates of M3B/13 (1st Floor), Jalan Pandan Indah 4/1A, Pandan Indah, 55100 Kuala Lumpur be and is hereby appointed liquidator with power to act for the purpose of such winding up as set out in Section 456 of the Companies Act 2016. Dated this : 4th June 2024 LEONG WENG CHONG Director IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF CHEONG HING FLAG MAKER SDN. BHD. 199401025455 (311136-M) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-Up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the creditors of the abovenamed Company which is in the process of voluntary winding up are required, on or before the 15th day of July 2024 to send their names, addresses and particulars of their debts or claims to the undersigned, the liquidator of the said Company at M3B/13 (1st Floor), Jalan Pandan Indah 4/1A, Pandan Indah, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, and, if so required, are to come in and prove their debts or claims at such time and place as shall be specified or in default will be excluded from the benefit of any distribution made before such debts or claims are proven. Dated this : 4th June 2024 LIONG LIAN CHUN Liquidator DALAM MAHKAMAH MAJISTRET DI KUALA KUBU BHARU DALAM NEGERI SELANGOR DARUL EHSAN GUAMAN NO: BF-A72NCVC-38-02/2024 MAJLIS PERBANDARAN HULU SELANGOR (MPHS) … PLAINTIF DAN LUM SAU MUN (NO K/P : 650218-10-6321) … DEFENDAN NOTIS IKLAN Kepada: LUM SAU MUN No. 39, Lorong Bunga Patuma 9, Kepayan Rumah Murah, 88300 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. LUM SAU MUN No. 56, Jalan Kantan 2H Perindustrian Jalan Kantan Bukit Beruntung, 48300 Rawang Selangor Darul Ehsan. AMBIL PERHATIAN bahawa satu Writ Saman dan Pernyataan Tuntutan telah dikeluarkan terhadap kamu dalam Mahkamah ini oleh MAJLIS PERBANDARAN HULU SELANGOR (MPHS) yang beralamat di Jalan Bukit Kerajaan, 44000 Kuala Kubu Bharu, Selangor Darul Ehsan dan Mahkamah telah memerintahkan supaya Writ Saman dan Pernyataan Tuntutan tersebut disampaikan kepada kamu dengan menampalkan salinan- salinannya beserta satu salinan yang dimeterai bagi Perintah untuk penyampaian ganti pada Papan Notis Mahkamah Majistret di Kuala Kubu Bharu, Selangor, menampal satu salinan Writ Saman bersama dengan Perintah tersebut ke alamat terakhir Defendan yang diketahui dan pengiklanan Perintah tersebut dalam satu keluaran akhbar tempatan ‘The Sun’ selama satu hari dan bahawa penampalan, pengeposan dan pengiklanan sedemikian dianggap sebagai penyampaian yang wajar dan mencukupi akan Writ Saman dan Pernyataan Tuntutan ini keatas kamu atas penamatan EMPAT BELAS (14) hari selepas tarikh terakhir penampalan dan pengiklanan tersebut. DAN SELANJUTNYA AMBIL NOTIS bahawa tarikh pengurusan kes Writ Saman dan Pernyataan Tuntutan tersebut telah ditetapkan di hadapan Majistret 07.06.2024 pada 9.00 pagi di dalam Pengurusan Kes secara eReview (dalam talian). Jika kamu berhasrat untuk menentang dan/atau membela diri, kamu mestilah dalam masa empat belas (14) hari dari tarikh penampalan dan pengiklanan tersebut menjadi sempurna, memohon kepada Mahkamah untuk memasukkan kehadiran di Mahkamah ini. Jika tidak, suatu Penghakiman boleh dikeluarkan terhadap kamu. Writ Saman dan Pernyataan Tuntutan ini boleh diperiksa oleh kamu dengan melalui permohonan kepada Mahkamah ini. Bertarikh 31 Mei 2024 …………………………. Penolong Pendaftar Mahkamah Majistret Kuala Kubu Bharu NOTIS IKLAN ini difailkan oleh TETUAN IBRAHIM & FUAADAH, Peguambela & Peguamcara bagi Plaintif yang beralamat di No.12F, Jalan Bidara 8, SU Mall, Saujana Utama 3, 47000, Sungai Buloh, Selangor, No. tel: 03- 6038 8164 /3031 emel: [email protected] Ruj fail : IF/1/1258/10223/MPHS(nfs) Item Reg No Make Model Price 1 QM354G 2019 PROTON EXORA RM32,160 Bank Repossessed bikes and cars for sale by auction. Auctions are conducted via eBidding on Wednesday, 5, 12, 19 & 26 June from 9.30 onwards. All are invited to join our PUBLIC AUCTION. Viewing and inspection on every Tuesday from 9.30am - 5.30pm. All unsold bank repossessed vehicles will be reauctioned on the following Wednesday until the vehicles are sold. 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. Scan QR to download Pickles Auctions App WE ARE HIRING ADVERTISING SALES & MARKETING EXECUTIVE / SENIOR EXECUTIVE Job Description: • Building and sustaining strong working relationship with advertising clients. • Plan and executive new, creative, exciting and innovative marketing campaigns for the company. • Develop and continuously improve marketing material, product/services presentations and proposals. • Passionate in serving client accounts to improve sales revenue. Requirement: • Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in business, marketing or other related fields. • At least 3 years of sales and marketing experience for senior position. • Fresh graduates are encourage to apply. • Training will be provided. • Good communication, presentation, problem-solving and organisational skills. • Possess own transport and willing to travel. • Able to start work immediately. Send in your CV with your photo via email to : [email protected] Office based in Petaling Jaya (5 days a week) 322 Notices DALAM MAHKAMAH TINGGI MALAYA DI SHAH ALAM DALAM NEGERI SELANGOR DARUL EHSAN, MALAYSIA (BAHAGIAN KELUARGA) SAMAN PEMULA NO. BA-24F-46-03/2024 Dalam perkara mengenai LIM EN XI (No Sijil kelahiran: DAB 18202) seorang kanak-kanak Dan Seksyen 24 (d) Akta Mahkamah Kehakiman 1964 Dan Seksyen 27 Akta Undang-undang Sivil 1956 Dan Dalam perkara Seksyen 52 dan 53 Akta Kanak-Kanak 2001 Dan Dalam perkara tentang Aturan 29 KaedahKaedah 1(2), 1(2A), dan 1(3) KaedahKaedah Mahkamah 2012 ANTARA LIM YONG HOW (No. K/P: 830715-14-5223) … PLAINTIF DAN NGUYEN THI YEN (No. Paspot Vietnam: C4945210) … DEFENDAN NOTIS IKLAN Kepada: NGUYEN THI YEN No. 55, Jalan 1/11, Bandar Country Homes, 48000 Rawang, Selangor. AMBIL PERHATIAN bahawa suatu tindakan telah dimulakan terhadap kamu di Mahkamah Tinggi Shah Alam oleh LIM YONG HOW (No. K/P: 830715-14-5223) melalui Saman Pemula bertarikh 1.3.2024 dan Afidavit Sokongan bertarikh 1.3.2024 (selanjutnya dirujuk secara kolektif sebagai “Saman Pemula tersebut”) dan Mahkamah telah memerintahkan bahawa Saman Pemula tersebut diserahkan kepada kamu secara penyampaian ganti dengan menampalkan sesalinan Perintah Penyampaian Gantian bertarikh 16 Mei 2024 dan sesalinan Saman Pemula tersebut di Papan Notis Mahkamah Tinggi Shah Alam, pengeposan secara Pos Berdaftar di alamat terakhir kamu yang diketahui iaitu di No. 55, Jalan 1/11, Bandar Country Homes, 48000 Rawang, Selangor dan dengan mengiklankan satu Notis mengenai Saman Pemula tersebut dalam satu akhbar tempatan iaitu “The Sun” DAN AKHIRNYA ADALAH DIPERINTAHKAN bahawa penyampaian tersebut hendaklah menjadi satu penyampaian yang sempurna dan cukup ke atas kamu dalam masa tujuh (7) hari selepas tarikh akhir penampalanpenampalan dan pengiklanan tersebut. Bertarikh 4 haribulan Jun 2024 t.t .................................................. NOTIS IKLAN ini difailkan oleh Tetuan WK Wong & Co., Peguamcara dan Peguambela bagi pihak Plaintif yang beralamat di K-3A-8, No. 2, Jalan Solaris, Solaris Mont Kiara, 50480 Kuala Lumpur. [Tel: 03-2389 3465 Faks: 03-2726 8983 Emel: [email protected]] [Ruj: RW/AA/23/10248/Fam/LYH] 322 Notices Advertise with us & connect to our urban readers. KLANG VALLEY PENANG | KEDAH PERAK | PERLIS PAHANG | KELANTAN TERENGGANU MS. Shoba / MS. Balqish TEL: 03-7784 8888 WHATSAPP: 018 261 6626 MALACCA MR. Rajah TEL: 012-628 2844 FAX: 06-764 2051 JOHOR BAHRU MS. Anne Lim TEL: 013-770 6699 FAX: 07-355 5549 SCAN ME TUESDAY JUNE 4, 2024 TEL: 03-7784 6688 FAX: 03-7785 2625 EMAIL: [email protected] Windies made to work hard Co-host beats minnows PNG by five wickets in T20 WC opener WEST INDIES stuttered and stumbled before e v e n t u a l l y scrambling a fivewicket win with an over to spare over minnows Papua New Guinea in the opening Group C encounter of the T20 World Cup at the Guyana National Stadium yesterday. Set a modest target of 137, the two-time former champions were undone by clever, disciplined PNG bowling, slumping to 97 for five with only four overs left when allrounder Roston Chase’s unbeaten 42 off 27 balls (four fours, two sixes) stole the spotlight from the power-hitting Andre Russell (15 not out) to take their team to victory at 137 for five off 19 overs. Their unbroken sixth-wicket partnership of 40 came off just three overs and denied PNG one of the biggest shocks, not just in the eight editions of this tournament, but in all international cricket given that this was just their second appearance in a world tournament, having lost all three matches in their debut appearance at the 2021 T20 World Cup. “Based on what we saw when PNG batted, it was always going to be hard for batsmen now coming in, so I gave myself some time to have the best chance possible and back my skills to get the ball away once I got in,” said “Man of the Match” Chase, who conceded 26 runs from four overs of off-spin and also held a brilliant catch at backward point to remove PNG captain Assad Vala. Vala led the way with the ball for the underdogs in taking two for 28 from four overs of spin after seamer Alei Nao struck at the start of the West Indies chase with the wicket of Johnson Charles first ball. That early success fired up the Papuans despite the shot-making of Brandon King (34) and Nicholas Pooran (27). When both fell within 11 deliveries of each other and captain Rovman Powell followed, PNG sensed an upset of monumental proportions before Chase redressed the balance when joined by Russell following the swift demise of Sherfane Rutherford. “We were 10-15 runs short of what would have been a more competitive target but after losing so many early wickets it was still a good effort,” said Valla in reflecting on the narrow loss. “We are happy with the fight we showed in trying to defend that total. This is an opportunity for us and we look forward to the challenge to play our best cricket in tournaments and against teams like this.” Earlier, Sese Bau’s belligerent 50 off 43 balls (six fours, one six) represented the only meaningful contribution from PNG in totalling 136 for eight after they were put in to bat. – AFP NAMIBIA scored a nerveshredding victory over Oman in their T20 World Cup Group B clash in Barbados yesterday after a lowscoring thriller was decided by a super over. David Wiese was the hero for Namibia, contributing 13 runs in the Africans’ super over total of 21 before then restricting Oman to 10 runs with the ball in hand to seal a crucial win at Kensington Oval. The match had gone to a decisive extra over after a tense duel saw both teams finish with 109 runs from their allotted 20 overs. Oman had looked to be heading for defeat after a superb four-wicket bowling display from Ruben Trumpelmann saw them all out for 109 off 19.4 overs. But Oman’s bowlers responded with a disciplined performance to contain Namibia’s bats, with Mehran Khan conjuring a superb spell to leave the match on a knife edge. Mehran finished with figures of three wickets for seven runs off three overs. The veteran Oman bowler took two wickets in the final over to frustrate Namibia, who had needed just five runs from the over to clinch victory. “I definitely aged a couple of years tonight,” the 39-year-old Wiese said. “And I don’t have a lot of years left in me. It was an emotionally draining evening.” “The pitch was difficult and didn’t play the way we thought. But we adapted well.” – AFP Namibia downs Oman in super over thriller Namibia’s Ruben Trumpelmann celebrates the dismissal of Oman’s captain Aqib Ilyas (not pictured). – AFPPIX

SPORTS SPORTS TUESDAY | JUNE 4, 2024 28 J APAN’S Yuka Saso became just the third player to have won major championships for each of their first two LPGA Tour wins with her gritty victory at the 79th US Women’s Open, joining Koreans Pak Se Ri and In Gee Chun. In yesterday’s dramatic final round, virtually every name at the top of the leaderboard struggled to tame Pennsylvania’s tough Lancaster Country Club course in windy conditions. Saso kept her nerve well to card a closing 68, despite a four-putt double bogey at the par-three sixth hole. The 22-year-old put together a brilliant back nine of 32 for a total of 4-under 276 (68-71-69-68), three shots ahead of compatriot Hinako Shibuno. This is the second time that Saso has hoisted the Harton S. Semple trophy, following her victory in 2021 at The Olympic Club in California. She is now also the youngest player to win the US Women’s Open twice. Overnight leaders Andrea Lee of the United States, Minjee Lee of Australia and Wichanee Meechai of Thailand all struggled and fell back. This allowed another American, Ally Ewing, to surge up the leaderboard with a superb closing 66 and tie Lee for third place on even-par. “I wasn’t expecting to win the US Women’s Open – last time, too, I wasn’t expecting it, and this time, too, I wasn’t expecting it. I think that’s why it made me a bit emotional. “Winning just makes you look back in all the things that your family and your team and my sponsors, they supported me throughout good or bad,” said Saso, who was born in the Philippines but opted for Japanese citizenship when she turned 20. Meanwhile, tributes piled in for American star Lexi Thompson following her announcement that she will cease playing a full-time schedule in 2025. The 11-time LPGA Tour winner made the surprise revelation before the start of the tournament. She missed the halfway cut. “This sport has taught me a lot, and I’ve learned so much along the way, built so many friendships and relationships. I’m looking forward to what life has in store. “There’s more things to life than going to a tournament every week and doing the same training every day. “There’s just more to it, and I’m looking forward to experiencing that. I feel like I’m very content with where my life is and where this decision will lead me to,” said Thompson, who turned 29 on Feb 29 this year. LPGA Commissioner Mollie Marcoux Samaan noted that Thomspon’s impact extended beyond the golf course. “Lexi’s impact extends far beyond the golf course. She embodies the spirit and dedication of our Founders — always showing up and engaging intentionally to help further the growth and impact of the LPGA,” said Samaan. “She is beloved by fans, consistently seen signing autographs and interacting with them no matter the result that day.” – lpga.com ROBERT MACINTYRE’S first victory on the PGA Tour will be memorable for countless reasons. His father was there every step of the way in the RBC Canadian Open as a fill-in caddie. “That’s the guy that taught me the game of golf,” MacIntyre said. “He was trying to tell me to stay focused, swing smooth.” They could celebrate together after the Scottish golfer shot 2-under 68 for a one-stroke tournament victory yesterday at Hamilton Golf & Country Club in Ontario. MacIntyre, a left-hander who earned his PGA Tour card via the DP World Tour Race to Dubai rankings, finished at 16-under 264. That was one stroke better than Ben Griffin, who shot a bogey-free 65. Dougie MacIntyre did his part as the caddie. “I’m speechless,” the younger MacIntyre said during a post-round television interview. “That’s everything for me and my family. To have him on the bag, I’m crying with joy, but I’m laughing because I didn’t think it was possible.” Now, MacIntyre has a spot in the US Open in less than two weeks. He’s full of gratitude. “The whole support I’ve had from Scotland, (for) me and my family,” he said. “… I honestly can’t believe this.” When MacIntyre made the turn, he held a four-stroke lead with six golfers sharing second place. But the tournament had been far from decided, not to mention MacIntyre’s apparent irritation because of noise stemming from a CBS drone. Griffin, who joined MacIntyre in the final pairing and also was vying for his first PGA win, had a late rally with three straight birdies, but was unable to sink a birdie putt from the fringe on the last hole. “I fought hard,” said Griffin, who posted a final-round 65. “It felt like there was a lid on the cup for most of the day for me. I hit so many pretty good putts.” Third-place finisher Victor Perez of France shot a bogey-free 64, capped by a birdie putt on the final hole. South Korea’s Tom Kim and Northern Ireland’s Rory McIlroy made charges with 64s to share fourth place at 13-under. Canada’s Corey Conners (65) was sixth at 12 under. – Field Level Media FERRARI chief Frederic Vasseur has suggested that the increased pressure from rivals is causing Max Verstappen (pix) to slip up more frequently. Since his dramatic and contentious title victory over Lewis Hamilton in 2021, Verstappen has been virtually untouchable, cruising to back-to-back championships before starting this season in formidable form. However, recent races have seen a shift in momentum. Lando Norris outpaced him in Miami and nearly did so again at Imola, while Charles Leclerc capitalised on Red Bull’s difficulties in Monaco. And Vasseur claims that this resurgence from McLaren and Ferrari seems to be putting the heat on Verstappen and Red Bull, which is in turn leading to uncharacteristic errors from the reigning champion. “I don’t want to draw any conclusions from this weekend, but if you look at the last two weekends, Max made m o r e mistakes in I m o l a than in the last three seasons,” Vasseur said. “As soon as you have to push more, if you have to stay in your comfort zone for the strategy, for everything, you don’t have to make mistakes. “I think they were in that situation – but I’m not drawing any conclusions. They will be back soon and be strong and I am not considering that all the races will be easy until the end. “As soon as you are in a position where you have to pay more attention to detail, you have a kind of snowball effect – and this is part of the improvement of the last six or seven months.” Vasseur’s comments mirror those made by Damon Hill while watching Verstappen at Imola. After witnessing the Red Bull driver veer off course four times during Friday’s practice, the 1996 F1 champion suggested that Verstappen might be feeling the pressure of having genuine competitors once again. Sky Sports analyst Hill stated: “The other teams are catching up. That is definitely the case. The comfortable advantage that Max has enjoyed over the last couple of seasons… it is inevitable that people will close the gap. When you are uncomfortable with the pace, it is relative. “If you’ve got a two or three tenths advantage over everyone, then you don’t have to push the car. Is that what we are seeing now? “Is Max having to get more out of the car than he can, as a result of other people closing up? “Actually, are you starting to see the ultimate performance of the Red Bull, and they are scratching their heads to find more. Competition is definitely coming.” – Express Newspapers Max feeling the heat as Norris, Leclerc close in SHORTS Els turns back the clock TIED for the lead entering the final round, Ernie Els of South Africa shot a 7-under 65 yesterday to win by two strokes at the Principal Charity Classic in Des Moines, Iowa. Els, 54, finished at 21-under 195 at Wakonda Club to seal his first Champions Tour win this season in his fourth appearance at the event. Els sank a pair of birdies on the front nine, then heated up on the back with three more. He also picked up an eagle on the par-5 13th to give him some breathing room. “It’s very special,” said Els, who entered the Principal Charity Classic 16th in the Schwab Cup Standings through eight events. “I haven’t won for a while. I’ve had quite a few chances, but it gets tougher when you don’t get it over the line.” Feeling the push from secondplace finisher and defending champion Stephen Ames of Canada and others, Els stressed the importance of his timely success on 13. “I was lucky enough to make birdie on 11,” he said. “I didn’t hit a very good approach, I hit a good putt. And then 12, but 13 was big. To make eagle late on the back nine, that was key. It got me into a two-shot lead.” Rod Pampling (69), David Duval (67) and Langer (68) finished in a three-way tie for third at 17-under while Vijay Singh of Fiji (68) and Heath Slocum (67) tied for sixth at 16-under. Zhang KOs Wilder as Queensberry rules the ring ZHILEI ZHANG knocked out Deontay Wilder in the fifth round yesterday, as Queensberry thrashed Matchroom at a unique event in Saudi Arabia. The card in Riyadh pitted Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom against Frank Warren’s company, with each promoter picking a five-man team. American Wilder, a former world heavyweight champion, was Hearn’s captain but suffered a fifth-round KO by China’s Zhang, who capped off a dominant showing from his team. Earlier in the night, Queensberry captain Hamzah Sheeraz stopped Austin Williams, Daniel Dubois beat Filip Hrgovic by TKO, Nick Ball dethroned WBA featherweight champion Ray Ford, and Willy Hutchinson easily outpointed Craig Richards. Those results, including extra points for captains and knockouts, led to a 10- 0 win for Queensberry. Furthermore, Dubois’s victory claimed him the IBF interim heavyweight title and seemed to set up a September clash with Anthony Joshua at Wembley Stadium. Major win for Saso Japan star grits out second US Women’s Open title MacIntyre claims for first PGA title in Canada with dad as caddie Robert MacIntyre plays his shot from the fifth tee during the third round of the RBC Canadian Open. – AFPPIX

SPORTS SPORTS TUESDAY | JUNE 4, 2024 29 Alcaraz books Tsitsipas rematch Spaniard glides past Auger-Aliassime into French Open last eight CARLOS ALCARAZ charged into the French Open quarterfinals for a third straight year after the twice Grand Slam champion thrashed 21st seed Felix Auger-Aliassime 6-3, 6-3, 6-1 with an entertaining display at Roland Garros on Sunday. The near-flawless win earned Alcaraz a meeting with ninth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas in what will be a blockbuster rematch of their 2023 encounter at this stage, and he will look to extend his 5-0 overall advantage over the Greek player. “I think I played a high level of tennis. Really focused. No ups and downs. I’m happy with everything. My serve, my shots, my movement on the court,” Alcaraz said after drawing level with Auger-Aliassime in what has been a close rivalry. “I know Felix is a great player. He’s played great tennis. The head-to-head was 3-2 for him. I was looking forward to being equal to him. We both showed great tennis today.” After an exchange of breaks early in the contest, third seed Alcaraz wasted several chances to punish Auger-Aliassime’s serve but the 21-year-old finally got his reward with a sliding volley for a 5-3 lead and held his nerve to win the next game. Last year’s semifinalist showcased his skills at the net again to save a break point at 1-2 in the second set and got back level after a nineminute game, before unleashing a huge backhand down the line to grab the lead in the next game. The 23-year-old Auger-Aliassime came out fighting following treatment for an injury but Alcaraz recovered from 0-40 down to extend his lead, delighting fans with a flicked single-handed backhand winner from deep en route to a two-set advantage. Still playing within himself after a recent arm injury that hampered his tune-up to the Grand Slam, the world number three raced to a 5-0 lead in the third set, closing out the match in style to draw huge cheers. “I think the most i m p o r t a n t thing is for me to believe in myself. It doesn’t matter if I don’t have too many matches on my back or that I didn’t come with a lot of rhythm,” Alcaraz said. “I just believe in myself with my team. We put in really good work every day before coming here and every day here. After every practice and every match I was getting better and better. “Here on Court Philippe Chatrier it’s easy to play… the history this court and this tournament has, it’s better to play and get to 100%.” He said he was relishing his next match with former Roland Garros runner-up Tsitsipas. “I love these kinds of matches,” he added. “I’ve seen a lot of matches lately from Stefanos. I know he’s playing great tennis and has a lot of confidence right now. “I have the key against him. I’ll try to play the shots that get him in trouble. I’ll try to show my best. “Hopefully the crowd enjoys (it) as much as I’m going to. Let’s see how it’s going to be.” – Reuters Sinner quells Moutet challenge SECOND SEED Jannik Sinner shook off a sluggish start and blazed into the French Open quarterfinals yesterday with a 2-6, 6- 3, 6-2, 6-1 victory over local hope Corentin Moutet that kept his worldNo. 1 dreams alive. Australian Open champion Sinner was in a spot of bother in front of partisan fans on Court Philippe Chatrier as the off-colour 22-year-old went 5-0 down in 23 minutes, but he managed to get on the board and avoid an embarrassing bagel. “It was very tough for me. I think he played very well in the first set,” said Sinner. “I had some chances, but he played much better than me, so I had to adjust a little bit. He had an amazing run here at Roland Garros. The atmosphere as always was amazing. “He plays differently to most of my opponents, so it was tough for me. He is also a lefty. You don’t play so many times against left-handers, so I’m happy to be in the next round.” Moutet, bidding to become the first Frenchman to make the Roland Garros lasteight since Richard Gasquet in 2016, mixed up his game and produced some spectacular shots, including a sliced winner from deep, for a first set point which he squandered. After dropping serve against the run of play, World No. 79 Moutet rode a huge wave of support and seized the opening set when Sinner hit a shot long before the duo exchanged breaks at the start of the second. Sinner, whose preparation for Roland Garros was hampered by a hip injury and illness, looked like his usual self again from there on as he broke for a 4-2 lead before levelling the match and tightened his grip by waltzing through the third set. The Italian had to wait to serve at 2-1 as fans refused to stop a Mexican wave, but he went on to seal the win that sent France’s last remaining hope out. – Reuters IGA SWIATEK and Coco Gauff stressed the need to start matches earlier at Grand Slams after defending champion Novak Djokovic came through a marathon third-round clash that ended in the early hours of Sunday morning. After rain delays forced organisers to wedge another match into Saturday’s packed schedule, Djokovic was taken all the way by Lorenzo Musetti but fed on the crowd’s energy to prevail in the latest ever Roland Garros finish at a little past 3 a.m. Swiatek romped to a 6-0, 6-0 victory over Anastasia Potapova in 40 minutes yesterday and said that late-finishing matches were not ideal for fans or players. “It’s not easy to play and it’s not like we’re going to fall asleep one hour after the match,” Swiatek told reporters. “Usually, it takes us four hours to even chill and you need to do recovery, media. It’s not like the work ends when the match point (is won). “I was always one of the players that said that we should start a little bit earlier. Also, I don’t know if the fans are watching these matches if they have to go to work next day or something when the matches are finishing at 2 or 3am.” Former Roland Garros runner-up Coco Gauff echoed Swiatek’s comment, saying it may be not fair for those who have to play late in the evening. “Because it does ruin your schedule. I’ve been lucky, I haven’t been put in a super late finish yet,” said Gauff, who beat Elisabetta Cocciaretto 6-1, 6-2 in an hour. The WTA and ATP Tours made a joint announcement this year limiting the number of matches that can be scheduled on a court in an evening session and banning contests beginning after 11pm in the interests of player welfare. Gauff said it was an idea that the Grand Slams could look into as well. “Maybe if a match is going long, possibly moving courts,” Gauff added. “I know it’s tough because, especially here, it’s only one night match, and people paid for those tickets. “It’s a complicated thing, but I think for the health and safety of the players it would be in the sport’s best interest to try to avoid those matches finishing – or starting after a certain time. “Obviously, you can’t control when they finish.” – Reuters Swiatek, Gauff not in favour of late matches Hurkacz requests umpire switch POLAND’S Hubert Hurkacz made an unusual request to his opponent Grigor Dimitrov to change the chair umpire during a straight-sets loss in the last 16 of the French Open yesterday. Hurkacz approached Dimitrov at a changeover in the third set with the Bulgarian about to serve at 5-6, asking him if he wanted to replace Alison Hughes while motioning to do so. Seemingly unhappy over a line call, eighth seed Hurkacz had called multiple times for the supervisor before suggesting to Dimitrov they get a new umpire. No change was made and Dimitrov held serve before winning the tie-break to advance 7-6 (7-5), 6-4, 7-6 (7-3), reaching his first Roland Garros quarterfinal at the 14th attempt. Hurkacz downplayed the incident after the match, insisting it was “all good”. “It’s clay court, so it’s sometimes difficult when the balls are really close… just it’s really close from time to time,” he said. “Definitely some of the calls you wish they are different way, but it’s just the way it is, and you gotta accept the things.” Dimitrov defended Hurkacz and maintained the exchange was not a big deal. “I think the thing is we all can say very difficult things in the heat of a moment. I’m sure whatever he said, it was not meant in a bad way,” said Dimitrov. “Also, the umpires, they’re trying their best. It’s a tricky business out there when the ball gets so close to the line.” – AFP Elena Rybakina plays a forehand return to Elina Svitolina (not pictured) during their women’s singles round of 16 match. – AFPPIX WORLD NO. 2 Aryna Sabalenka pummelled American Emma Navarro 6-2 6-3 in just over an hour yesterday to march into the French Open quarterfinals with an emphatic performance that kept her on course for her first title in Paris. Navarro had stunned the Belarusian at Indian Wells in March but Sabalenka broke her to love at the very start and followed that up with another break to race through the first set in 30 minutes. The Australian Open champion completely overpowered Navarro with her thundering baseline game and attacked the American’s weak second serve at every opportunity. The 23-year-old Navarro was playing in the last 16 of a Grand Slam for the first time and could not deal with Sabalenka’s power. “It was really tough against her in Indian Wells,” Sabalenka said. “I was ready for a tough match, to fight for any point, for long rallies. I am super happy with the level I played today. “I was just trying to focus on myself and do my best on each point.” In the other last 16 match, former Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina, the fourth seed and the only woman to defeat world No. 1 Iga Swiatek on clay this year, saw off experienced Ukrainian 15th seed Elina Svitolina 6-4, 6-3 in just over an hour. She will next face Italian Jasmine Paolini after the 12th seed fought back to defeat Russian Elina Avanesyan 4-6, 6-0, 6-1. “On clay, it’s a bit more complicated with the movements but overall we are doing a good job and I’m proud with how I improved in the last few years,” said Rybakina. – AFP/Reuters Sabalenka bludgeons Navarro, Rybakina marches on

SPORTS SPORTS TUESDAY | JUNE 4, 2024 30 FEW turn to Jose Mourinho for a sympathetic shoulder to cry upon. Or not the caricature of Mourinho anyway. But Edin Terzic is the emotional manager of an emotional club and he had already shed a tear on the Wembley turf before he found himself next to a man who knows what it is like to win the Champions League – twice, the “Special One” may point out – and he buried his head in a designer suit. “I won’t forget this moment, it showed what a big coach and person and character he is,” Terzic said. Mourinho ended his night as a therapist. He had started his night as the pantomime villain, booed by the Borussia Dortmund fans when he appeared on the big screen at Wembley, just as they cheered Jurgen Klopp. But Mourinho’s shtick is that he is a winner. For Klopp, who knows what it is like to lose Champions League finals to Real Madrid and to lose one at Wembley, this was three past nights rolled into one. It was the sense of being so near and yet so far. Just as in 2013 against Bayern Munich, Dortmund were the better team in the first half at Wembley. Just as his Liverpool team did in 2022, Klopp saw Thibaut Courtois make saves and Vinicius Junior score; this time the forward to hit the post for a team who lost 2- 0 was Niclas Fullkrug, not Sadio Mane but many of the facts remained the same. Klopp can be self-deprecating and argue he has plenty of experience of setbacks; so do Dortmund, the club more accustomed to being the runners-up than the winners. Normally, though, they come second to Bayern Munich in the Bundesliga. If Terzic’s team succumbed to meltdown against Mainz in the last game of last season to squander the Bundesliga title, this time they were menacing and more impressive against Real, denying the best team in Europe a shot on target in the first half. They were close to leading themselves. The woodwork had saved Dortmund in the semifinal, when Paris Saint-Germain hit it six times; it denied them in the final, with Fullkrug thwarted. Karim Adeyemi, electric but erratic, could rue a stray touch that may have cost him a goal. If Bayern’s Dante perhaps should have been sent off at Wembley in 2013, maybe Real’s Vinicius should have seen red 11 years later. It was not to be. Terzic was not alone in being tearful; so were Marcel Sabitzer and Ian Maatsen, whose mistake led to Real’s second goal. Terzic was quick to forgive him. “I have a chaos of emotions,” he said. “I am proud but also sad and empty so it is hard to analyse but I do think we have had a season that has a lot of ups and downs. “Today was the perfect example of what is possible with this team and what we can achieve.” While Dortmund’s European campaign ended as it began, with a 2-0 defeat, much changed in between; they slipped to fifth in the Bundesliga, Terzic came close to the sack, they won the Champions League’s group of death and ploughed on, further than anyone foresaw. Terzic has proved a fine leader; joining only Klopp and Ottmar Hitzfeld among those to have taken Dortmund to a Champions League final. They can seem the biggest underdog club in the world, Terzic the likeable local who few fancied to get the better of Carlo Ancelotti. For 45 minutes an imperfect manager but impressive figure did, yet couldn’t conjure a lead. Then Real Madrid happened. And for Borussia Dortmund, there was the familiar cruelty of knowing what might have been. – The Independent This shirt is my skin, Mourinho tells Fenerbahce fans JOSE MOURINHO told Fenerbahce fans “this shirt is my skin” as he was presented as the new coach of the Turkish Super Lig club. Thousands attended the Sukru Saracoglu Stadium in Istanbul yesterday to watch the signing ceremony, which took place on a huge stage built on the field. “Normally a coach is loved after victories,” said two-time Champions League winner Mourinho. “In this case I feel that I am loved before the victories. “That is a big responsibility that I feel. I promise you from this moment, I belong to your family. This shirt is my skin.” The 61-year-old replaces Ismail Kartal, who left Fenerbahce on Friday after they finished second in the league to city rivals Galatasaray, despite losing just one game and recording 99 points last term. Mourinho has been out of work since being sacked by Roma in January after two-and-a-half seasons in charge. Details of his new contract are yet to be confirmed. The former Chelsea, Real Madrid and Manchester United boss is the only manager to have won the Champions League, Europa League and Europa Conference League. He has won 21 major honours across a 24-year managerial career that began in his home country Portugal at Benfica and included spells at Porto, Inter Milan and Tottenham, where he was relieved of his duties prior to the 2021 Carabao Cup final. Mourinho’s last piece of silverware came with Roma in 2022, when he led them to the Europa Conference League – the club’s first European trophy – and helped them reach the Europa League final the following season, where they lost to Sevilla on penalties. – AFP ENZO MARESCA has signed a fiveyear contract at Chelsea ahead of being officially confirmed as the club’s new manager, according to reports. Maresca, a former disciple of Pep Guardiola, is set to become Chelsea’s sixth permanent boss in the last five seasons. The Italian will arrive in west London after successfully guiding Leicester City back to the Premier League at the first attempt. The Foxes accumulated 97 points under his guidance to finish top of the Championship, one point ahead of second-placed Ipswich Town. According to The Athletic, Maresca has put pen to paper on a five-year contract with Chelsea set to confirm his appointment today. The deal reportedly includes a club-held option to extend it by a further 12 months. Leicester are poised to receive around £10 million (RM60m) in compensation in exchange for Maresca’s signature. Chelsea are said to be sensitive to the disruption caused to the Foxes, with Blues chiefs appreciative of the “class and professionalism” they have shown throughout. Chelsea were granted permission to speak to Maresca last week, with the two parties quickly reaching an agreement on personal terms. Steve Cooper, Graham Potter and Ruud van Nistelrooy have been touted as the early favourites to replace Maresca. It has already been reported by The Telegraph that Maresca is eager to sign a new goalkeeper upon his arrival at Stamford Bridge. The former Manchester City assistant coach is also believed to be keen on recruiting another left-back as well as at least one new forward player. Chelsea have already agreed their first summer signing with Palmeiras teenager Estevao Willian set to join the Blues for a fee in the region of £51.4 million (RM308m). The winger is regarded as one of the best young talents in Brazil and will become the most expensive teenage player from South America when his move to Chelsea is confirmed. A number of players are likely to leave Chelsea over the coming months, with Conor Gallagher said to be a target for Tottenham and Aston Villa while Ian Maatsen is also thought to be admired by Borussia Dortmund. – Express Newspapers Maresca confirmed as new Chelsea boss █ BY RICHARD JOLLY SHORTS Slot gets Gakpo backing LIVERPOOL forward Cody Gakpo feels Arne Slot’s footballing philosophy makes him an ideal successor to Jurgen Klopp. Dutchman Slot officially began his Anfield tenure on Saturday following the departure of longserving manager Klopp. Reds forward Gakpo, formerly of PSV Eindhoven, played against his compatriot’s AZ Alkmaar and Feyenoord sides during his days in the Eredivisie. Asked whether Slot’s style will be transferrable, Gakpo told Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf: “I think so, otherwise the club wouldn’t have appointed him. “If you talk about neat football and high pressure, with the latter being a very big characteristic of us under Jurgen Klopp, then that is also something we are certainly used to.” Slot signed a three-year contract to become the Premier League club’s first head coach, rather than manager. He arrives on Merseyside having led Feyenoord to the Eredivisie title, Dutch Cup glory and the 2022 Europa Conference League final during his three-year stay in Rotterdam. The 45-year-old spent the previous season with AZ, finishing second below Ajax on goal difference in a campaign cut short by the Covid-19 pandemic. “I have not spoken to him before… (but) I do know that he has always made it very difficult for us at PSV and is known as a very good trainer, of course,” said Netherlands international Gakpo. Ten Hag identifies three signings needed MANCHESTER UNITED boss Erik ten Hag has stressed the need for three signings this summer, taking a rare approach by publicly naming the areas that he believes the Red Devils need to improve upon in the transfer window. Ten Hag’s future is far from secure at Old Trafford, as Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Ineos conduct an end-of-season review that may decide that a parting of ways is the way forward for United. Whether Ten Hag or another head coach is in charge, United are expected to press ahead in the transfer window and recruit heavily once again. Confirmed departures of Anthony Martial and Raphael Varane have freed up room on the wage bill, but they will need replacing ahead of next season. And Ten Hag has boldly stated that another first-team striker, midfielder and centreback are his United transfer targets ahead of next season. He optimistically believes that such signings coupled with a season of fewer injuries can propel the team back into the top four. “We need to get a striker in to work alongside Rasmus Hojlund,” Ten Hag said. “I also hope we manage to get another central midfielder and also a replacement for Varane. “Then I think things will look very good for next season – with the caveat that the players are fit and stay fit.” So nearyet so far yet so far Dortmund endure familiar cruelty in quest to shed runners-up tag Dortmund coach Edin Terzic after the Champions League final against Real Madrid. – REUTERSPIX

SPORTS SPORTS TUESDAY | JUNE 4, 2024 31 NATIONAL women’s para lawn bowler Hasmunirah Maliki has described her victory at her debut in the 2024 World Championship in South Africa as a stroke of luck, replacing her teammate, Jariah Zakaria, who is currently performing the Haj pilgrimage in Makkah. Hasmunirah admitted that she never expected to win at the world championship in Ekurhuleni, especially after receiving a lastminute call to shoulder the heavy duty of replacing Jariah, who won bronze at the 2022 Asian Para Games in Hangzhou, China. “I am grateful and speechless after winning at the World Championship. It was quite surprising to be able to compete because I was informed by the team to replace Jariah a week before the competition started. “Previously, I hadn’t played a game for quite some time since competing at the 3rd Asia Bowls Championship for the Disabled 2022 in Skudai, Johor. Training was also minimal, but I still maintained my stamina,” she told reporters after arriving at Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminal 1 from South Africa yesterday. The 30-year-old athlete emerged as the champion after topping the league competition in the B2 category (visual impairment) by winning all six matches and collecting 12 points, followed by the host representative who won silver, Michelle Eshun (9 points), while Louise McLean from Canada took bronze (2 points). The athlete from Terengganu, who suffers from glaucoma, dedicated her achievement to her family, teammates and the Malaysian Lawn Bowls Association for the Disabled, who have been very supportive of her all this time. Meanwhile, fellow national athlete Muhamad Ayub Mohd said the sacrifice of being away from family and the RM400 monthly investment was very worthwhile as he also struck gold in South Africa by winning the men’s singles B2 (visual impairment). The 41-year-old masseur said winning the world championship in his first attempt was also the highest achievement of his career since representing the country at the 2006 FESPIC Games. “I feel like crying because the sacrifices made earlier were truly worthwhile. I have no fixed income, using RM400 a month for transportation costs to travel back and forth to the training venue in Bukit Kiara. “I also had to relinquish heavy responsibilities by leaving my family, which further strengthened my spirit to bring home a medal at the world championship,” he said. Malaysia also won bronze in the mixed singles B1 (visual impairment) through Mohd Zamrie Hasan, who finished third (4 points) behind South Africa’s Michiel Kruger (8 points) and Tracy Smith (6 points), who took the top two spots. Meanwhile, Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh, who welcomed their return, said the three athletes are eligible to receive the National Sports Incentive Scheme (Shakam) reward, with the prize amount to be determined by the National Sports Council. – Bernama Lucky break for Hasmunirah Para lawn bowler lands gold after late call up National sepak takraw squad to receive special incentive from NSC: Hannah THE national sepak takraw team will receive a special incentive amounting to RM170,000 from the National Sports Council (NSC) following their proud success at the 2024 Sepak Takraw World Cup which took place in the federal capital, recently. Minister of Youth and Sports Hannah Yeoh said NSC has approved incentives amounting to RM60,000 each of the inter-regu and doubles teams after emerging champions while the team regu which became runners-up received RM50,000 in the competition held at Titiwangsa Stadium. “(The successes at) the 2024 Sepak Takraw World Cup mean alot to Malaysians and the players who worked hard to win the gold,” she said. She told reporters at Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminal 1 after a welcoming ceremony for the return of the para bowling squad from the 2024 World Championship in Ekurhuleni, South Africa. On May 22, the national sepak takraw squad made history by ending Thailand’s domination after defeating them 2-0 in the finals of the interregu and doubles events. The 33-year wait for the national sepak takraw squad to emerge as the champion of the team regu event continued after losing 1-2 to Thailand in the final on May 26. In the meantime, Hannah said MSN is still discussing the reintroduction of sepak takraw as a core sport as requested by the Malaysian Sepak Takraw Association (PSM) president Datuk Mohd Sumali Reduan. Sepak takraw along with weightlifting and taekwondo were the three sports NSC dropped from the national core sports list in 2017, following poor performance and lack of improvement based on a review, including an in-depth study of the performance of the three sports since 2007. Regarding PSM’s request regarding the construction of a special stadium for sepak takraw, Hannah instead suggested that they along with other sports associations work with higher education institutions to use their facilities including for training purposes. – Bernama NATIONAL PROFESSIONAL mixed doubles shuttler Lai Pei Jing has revealed that she was the victim of a major scam that left her nearly penniless. In a heartfelt Facebook post on Sunday, the 31-year-old player expressed her distress and called for privacy for her family as they cope with the emotional aftermath of the incident. Pei Jing, the world No. 23 duo with Tan Kian Meng explained that she lost almost all of her savings to a fraud group, describing the experience as a “heavy blow” after decades of hard work. “First of all, to my relatives and friends who see this post, whether you are curious or concerned, please give my family and me some private space to deal with our emotions. Please give us time to process everything, especially my mom. Thank you. “Yes, I was scammed out almost all of my savings by a fraud group. Honestly, this has been an extremely heavy blow to me. “My hard-earned savings from decades of hard work… I reflect on it almost every second, and whenever my mind is idle, I naturally replay the entire scam and fall into a state of blaming myself for my foolishness and kindness,” she said. Despite the emotional toll, the 2022 Korean Open mixed doubles champion is determined to move forward as she has been managing her emotions and working with the police. – Bernama Pei Jing left nearly penniless in a major scam SHORTS Malaysia bags two gold, one bronze in Germany THE Malaysian DanceSport team delivered an outstanding performance at the Dance Sport Festival 2024 by bagging two gold medals and a bronze at Bremen, Germany, on Sunday. The Malaysia DanceSport Federation (MYDF) in a statement yesterday said the golds were obtained through Cherry Yeo, who participated in the Adult Female Solo Latin event, and Yap Wan Xin in the Youth Female Solo Latin category, while Kimberly Chew contributed the bronze through the Junior ll Female Solo Latin event. Cherry, who stole the spotlight last year in national news after winning three gold medals in the Mallorca Dance Festival (MDF) in Spain, is now ranked top 6th in the world under the Adult Female Solo Latin category. Yap Wan, meanwhile, is now ranked top 3 in the world for Youth Female Solo Latin category. The world ranking event, sanctioned by the World DanceSport Federation (WDSF), from May 31 to June 2 attracted about 2500 athletes from 46 countries, including Croatia, Georgia and China. “The success of the Malaysian DanceSport team would not have been possible without the dedicated support and expert guidance of their coaches, Chua Zjen Fong and Evon Chong from MY DanceSport Academy. Their commitment to nurturing these athletes’ talents has been instrumental in achieving these remarkable results. “Additionally, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to (Youth and Sports Minister) Hannah Yeoh and The Ministry of Youth and Sports (KBS) Malaysia for their generous funding and unwavering support, which has played a crucial role in enabling the team to compete on the world stage and bring pride to our nation,” read the statement. Terry, Chelsea finish third in Putrajaya NATIONAL athletes Terry Chong and Chelsea Lee finished third in the men’s and women’s 5km main event respectively at the Asean Festival NX113 Open Water Swimming Championship at Tasik Putrajaya on Sunday. Terry clocked 1 hour 27 minutes 27 seconds to finish behind two Indonesian swimmers, Muhamad Abhinaya Putrawan, who took gold with a time of 1:13:22s, and Enrico Abishua, who was second in 1:17:23s. Chelsea clocked 1:20:37s, behind Indonesians Virgin Silvia Natan (1:14:55s) and Naurah Chalisa Adeputri (1:19:10s). Chelsea, who is preparing for the Thames Marathon 13km swim in England on Aug 11, was excited over her participation as the competition had received an encouraging response. “I have competed in many races but each one brings a new experience and makes me a better swimmer,” she said. The championship was supported by Aseanhub and sanctioned by the Kuala Lumpur Amateur Swimming Association. National Field Bowling athletes Muhamad Ayub Mohd (left), Hasmunirah Maliki (centre) and Mohd Zamrie Hasan show off the medals they won at the 2024 World Field Bowling Championships in South Africa the Kuala International Airport yesterday. – BERNAMAPIX Safwan struggling to challenge senior players PROMISING defender Safwan Mazlan admits that it will not be easy to compete with the prowess of senior players in his efforts to break into Harimau Malaya’s starting line-up ahead of the remaining two matches of Group D in the second round of the 2026 World Cup/2027 Asian Cup Qualifiers, this month. Safwan, who was called up for the second time to participate in the training camp with Harimau Malaya, said that he will still prove his ability in the training session to win the heart of head coach Kim Pan Gon to give him the opportunity to be fielded later. “It’s a struggle (challenging senior players) because I’m a young player, however, I need to work harder to get a place in the main squad,” he said when met at a training session on Sunday. At the same time, the Terengganu FC player said the intensity of training with the senior team was higher than with the national Under-23 (U-23) squad before. The 22-year-old player said that so far he has not faced any problem in adapting to the tactical aspect of Pan Gon’s plan since it is not much different from the experience he had with the coach of the national U-23 squad, Juan Torres Garrido. – Bernama Safwan Mazlan

theSun is published and printed by Sun Media Corporation Sdn Bhd (221220-K) of Lot 6, Jalan 51/217, 46050 Petaling Jaya, Selangor. Tel: 03-7784 6688 • Tel (Editorial): 03-7784 6688 Fax: 03-7785 2625 Email: [email protected] • Tel (Advertising): 03-7784 8888 Email: [email protected] SCAN ME TUESDAY | JUNE 4, 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 Real kings Madrid deliver on Champions League promise REAL MADRID celebrated the Spanish title with thousands of supporters in May, pledging to return in June with the Champions League trophy. Los Blancos delivered on their promise, defeating Borussia Dortmund 2-0 at Wembley to claim a record 15th European Cup on Sunday. The triumphant players hit the city’s usual celebration hotspots yesterday and are set to end up at the club’s Santiago Bernabeu stadium where the party will finish, for now at least. Paris Saint-Germain striker Kylian Mbappe’s expected signing in the coming days should see the festivities continue. “Vinicius, Ballon d’Or” chants were heard at intervals from fans throughout the afternoon, after the Brazilian netted Madrid’s second goal in the final to clinch victory. Dani Carvajal had opened the scoring with his first Champions League goal for eight seasons, against the run of play after Dortmund had dominated. However, as they so often tend to do, Madrid found a way to survive and ultimately thrive. The team’s stars, led by president Florentino Perez, made their first stop at the city’s Almudena cathedral. “I don’t know which team God would support, but I know that… he would surely appreciate this cup,” said the cardinal archbishop of Madrid, Jose Cobo, who was left with a replica trophy. The team then returned to the Madrid regional government’s headquarters to present another replica to president Isabel Diaz Ayuso, whom they also met after winning La Liga. “If we are here, it’s because there’s good news,” said Real Madrid captain Nacho. “Once again we are champions of Europe. It seems easy to say – 15 time champions… I hope it’s many more times.” Nacho, along with Carvajal, the retiring Toni Kroos and Luka Modric, reached a career sixth Champions League victory, equalling the all-time record set by former Madrid winger Paco Gento well over half a century earlier. Germany international Kroos was singled out for special praise by chief Perez, having set up Carvajal’s winner in his final match for Madrid after a decade at the club. “We are the kings of Europe,” sang Carvajal to thousands of white-shirted fans massed in a central square, Puerta del Sol, before calling on Kroos to take the spotlight. “Three weeks ago I promised you we’d be back,” said Kroos, while fans chanted for him to stay. “Many thanks for ten unforgettable years, I have no more words,” added Kroos. While the midfielder is departing, Madrid’s success is likely to continue. “I have already told you that this club is currently working towards the realisation of a new dream – namely the sixteenth European Cup,” said Perez. Madrid will have another “trophy” to celebrate soon, in the marquee signing of Mbappe, who could help them achieve that dream. The French forward is finally set for the Santiago Bernabeu after seven years at PSG, many of which Madrid have spent trying to lure him to Spain. Madrid are expected to announce Mbappe’s signing today or tomorrow and fans are ready for him to finally fulfil what has long appeared his destiny. “The relationship between Madrid and the Champions League is legendary, mystical, and so it’s very special,” said Claudia, 23, while waiting for the team to arrive at Plaza Cibeles, where Madrid celebrate their trophy conquests with supporters. “He’s a player born to play at Real Madrid. I’m taking it as done that he’s arriving… the best players in the world have to play at Madrid, and Mbappe is in the top three players in the world.” Ancelotti is used to managing players of that calibre and won a record fifth Champions League as a coach on Saturday. The Italian posed once more with a cigar in his mouth, sunglasses and a backwards baseball cap alongside Vinicius, Rodrygo and the team’s other Brazilian stars, in what will become another indelible image from the celebrations. – AFP -Story on page 30 So near yet so far Real Madrid’s players parade on their bus on Cibeles Square to celebrate their 15th Champions League trophy, one day after beating Borussia Dortmund. – AFPPIX Madrid fans crowd Cibeles Square to celebrate their team’s 15th Champions League trophy yesterday. – AFPPIX -Story on page 27 Major win for Saso