PETALING JAYA: As a leading businessman, Tan Sri Vincent Tan has always held charity close to his heart. And now, he has upped the ante by offering condominium units for the lower-income group at below-market prices. Tan said turning a profit is secondary to providing low-income families with the opportunity to buy a house that is large enough, comfortable and with suitable amenities. Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony of the Berjaya Flagship Affordable Homes (BFAH) in Subang Jaya on Friday, the Berjaya Corporation Berhad founder and adviser said he directed that the additional RM10 million it costs to provide the 900sq ft (84sq m), five-bedroom, four-bathroom condominium units located at Subang Heights be absorbed. The project, a Rumah Selangorku affordable housing initiative, is developed by Berjaya Land Berhad in collaboration with Yayasan My First Home. “A home is more than a shelter as it is where a person raises his family. It is an important asset. But today, many families cannot afford to purchase a home. “Berjaya Land pointed out that the project would be loss-making, but I insisted it proceed as I aim to help the B40 group to own a home. “Everything cannot be about money alone. We have to do our part for the lower-income group too and not depend entirely on the government to help them. Those from the B40 group have dreams of owning a house just like the rest of us, and we should do our part to fulfil their dream,” he said. Tan added that at a price of RM250,000, families can meet their monthly commitments and also pay their housing instalments. Those who buy the 402 units of condominiums on offer have the option to purchase a dual-key unit. One room will have a different entrance so as not to disturb the main unit. “The room can be rented out to defray the instalment cost, be given to a married member of the family or aged parents who want privacy. Also, B40 families usually have three children, so it’s large enough for them,” he said. Tan added that the money that is lost in this project is less important as Yayasan My First Home’s (YMFH) overriding concern is to help those who cannot afford to buy a home. Berjaya Land’s non-discounted developments are profitable and will make up for the loss incurred in providing affordable housing. However, he said the charitable foundation has limited funds and urged other corporations to also step in to help. Local Government Development Minister Nga Kor Ming, who officiated at the groundbreaking ceremony, agreed with Tan. “I hope other companies will follow in the footsteps of Berjaya Land to build similar homes. Despite knowing the company would make a loss by selling the units at RM250,000, you have still gone ahead with the project. “Condominiums in the Subang Heights area are priced around RM500,000, and this affordable home project is selling at a far lower price. “The demand for affordable houses has been rising, and the Negeri Sembilan and Penang governments have given the federal government free land to help build houses for the lower-income group,” he said. Meanwhile, Tan urged the government to look into the possibility of building five-bedroom low-cost flats instead of three-bedroom units as many low-income parents have large families, adding that this is based on a study done by YMFH. He also invited Nga to visit the BFAH show units at Berjaya Times Square to see for himself the potential they represent. Berjaya Land Berhad CEO Syed Ali Shahul Hameed said: “The additional two bedrooms, two bathrooms, swimming pool and gymnasium and its strategic location in Subang Heights will add another RM10 million to the construction costs.” oBerjaya Land to absorb RM10 million loss to build 402 affordable condo units for B40 █ BY RAJVINDER SINGH [email protected] 2 page INSIDE Support Ekonomi Madani: G25 3 page Plan for greater M’sian civilisation TELLING IT AS IT IS ONMONDAY JULY 31, 2023 No. 8319 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195) www.thesundaily.my Tan (right) briefing Nga on the BHAF project during the groundbreaking ceremony at the Subang Hi-Tech Industrial Park in Subang Jaya. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN He said Berjaya Land is inspired by Tan, who wants the additional features and benefits to be a worthwhile investment that will benefit the families. Syed Ali said his company has a track record of constructing affordable homes to cater to a diverse community. He said Berjaya Land’s affordable housing portfolio includes Lanai in Bukit Jalil with 648 units, Arena Green Bukit Jalil (1,240 units) and Akasia Berjaya Park in Shah Alam with 240 units. Fulfilling dreams
2 theSUN ON MONDAY | JULY 31, 2023 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS READ OUR HERE /thesundaily SCAN ME Support Ekonomi Madani: G25 KUALA LUMPUR: The G25 group of influential Malays yesterday called on Malaysians to support Ekonomi Madani as the blueprint for making Malaysia a successful country. It said Ekonomi Madani, which was launched by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on July 27, provides for the people’s basic needs, irrespective of race and religion, whether they live in urban or rural areas, in the Peninsula or East Malaysia. “Anwar has emphasised that he wants to make Malaysia a leading country in Southeast Asia in terms of achieving sustainable gross domestic product (GDP) growth and ensuring the equitable distribution of the expanding economic cake to all levels of Malaysian society. “G25 finds this focus on equitability very appropriate and timely. This is linked to at least two of the six core values of Masyarakat Madani (civil society) concept – sustainability, prosperity, innovation, respect, trust and compassion.” G25 said ensuring equitability o‘Blueprint launched by premier provides for people’s basic needs, irrespective of race and religion’ █ BYJOSHUA PURUSHOTMAN [email protected] directly contributes to prosperity and compassion so that the lower income groups and the less fortunate would get their fair share of the economic opportunities arising from the fast-expanding economy. “The prime minister believes the government itself must act decisively to bring about the distributive objective. “ We agree with Anwar that in strengthening the growth process, the poor must also benefit from the expansion of job and income opportunities.” It said as widely acknowledged, Malaysia has achieved much progress since Independence. Income levels and employment have risen to bring about remarkable progress in reducing absolute poverty across all states. “On the other hand, it is also true that the share of wages in the GDP has not risen as fast as it should. As Anwar said, this can be attributed to the over-reliance on cheap foreign labour in the commercial, industrial, and service sectors.” It said when companies wished to expand their operations, they imported cheap labour, thus depressing wage increases in the private sector. It added that this led to Malaysia losing its skilled and professional manpower to Asian neighbours and other foreign countries, including those in the Middle East and the West. “Among those going abroad are nurses, doctors, university professors, research scientists, engineers and accountants. “This brain drain needs to be addressed urgently. We, therefore, agree with Anwar that this problem of low-wage culture needs to be given priority.” Ekonomi Madani plans to achieve over 5% GDP growth in the next few years, compared with the more modest 4-5% growth rate projected in most forecasts for Malaysia. “G25 hopes that to ensure the sustainability of the government’s expansionary budget spending, the prime minister will take stronger measures to deal with leakages from corruption, rentseeking practices, mismanagement, cronyism and favouritism among politicians and civil servants in the ministries and implementing departments. “Measures to strengthen the revenue base and cut down on wasteful subsidies should also become part of the financial reforms to keep the fiscal deficit ratio under control.” The G25 also said the recent strengthening of the ringgit indicates growing confidence in Anwar’s leadership. “We believe Ekonomi Madani will further consolidate the political strength of the unity government to achieve prospects for peace and stability in the country, despite all the toxic speeches about race and religion from his political opponents.” Ministry to keep programme to help people KUALA SELANGOR: The Communications and Digital Ministry will make the Ziarah Kasih programme a permanent feature to reach out to the people, including solving their internet problems. Its minister Fahmi Fadzil said the programme enables aid to be channelled more comprehensively because it involves related parties. “We see it is appropriate for the programme to be continued. While solving internet issues, we also give attention to welfare matters. “I can see that certain matters need to be expedited. InsyaAllah, after this it will (be extended to other locations),” he said after launching the Ziarah Kasih programme at two houses in Kampung Bukit Badong, Bestari Jaya, near here yesterday. The event was also attended by PH-BN Ijok state seat candidate Amidi Abdul Manan. He said a similar programme Fahmi and Amidi chatting with Sawiah (second from right) during their visit to her home yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC will be held in Sabah and Sarawak on Aug 25 and Sept 2 respectively. “During this period, we will take the opportunity to visit journalists or members of the public facing health and welfare issues, while also looking into their internet problems.” Meanwhile, senior citizen Sawiah Adam, 72, said the presence of Fahmi at her residence showed that he is a minister with the people’s interests at heart. Sawiah said the aid given by the Lembah Pantai MP would be put to good use. “I am suffering from various ailments, including gout as well as kidney and heart diseases, which affect my movements. A new wheelchair presented to me will make life easier for me.” On the internet speed in the village, Fahmi said he had directed the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) to quickly resolve the problem. “I was told that this village had reported the problem to MCMC in 2020. I don’t understand why there is a delay and the internet problem is dragging on. “We see there is only one bar here (signal strength). “It is a chronic problem. I will try to settle it. But it depends on the issue. “If it involves construction of towers it will take time. We will check the existing towers.” – Bernama Govt to launch youth labour reform project SEREMBAN: A national-level Academy in Industry pilot project, which is a government effort to implement labour market reforms, will be launched tomorrow. Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli said the ministry managed to attract some 200 international manufacturing companies to join the programme in giving youths, especially SPM schoolleavers, the opportunity to be trained as highly skilled workers. He said the programme was also aimed to address issues related to Technical and Vocational Education and Training such as the duration of the course, failure to complete studies and waning interest in the field. “In the last two months, we managed to get mostly international manufacturing companies, and they will be allowed to hire and train workers who will be issued a certificate within 18 months. “If we don’t do something creative like this, it will be detrimental especially to youths who have no qualifications. Only about 30% of our SPM schoolleavers pursue further studies. He was speaking at the Jelajah Madani programme at the Taman Megaway Business Centre grounds on Saturday. He said the remaining 70% have SPM certificates which can not help them much for their career advancement. The Pandan MP said the government plans to expand the programme by collaborating with higher education institutions to recognise the certificates obtained through the Academy in Industry, thus enabling participants to continue their studies at diploma and degree levels, Bernama reported. “We will work something out with higher education institutions. This way, school-leavers would have two options, either to go to university and find a job later or enter the job market to work, and later get their paper qualifications.” Al-Sultan Abdullah meets outgoing UAE envoy KUALA LUMPUR: The Yang diPertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah granted an audience to outgoing UAE Ambassador to Malaysia Khalid Ghanim Alghaith at Istana Negara yesterday. Khalid conveyed to the King the greetings of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice-President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and VicePresident, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Presidential Court Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan. He also conveyed their wishes for further development and prosperity for the government and people of Malaysia, according to the Emirates news agency (WAM). For his part, Al-Sultan Abdullah expressed his greetings to Sheikh Mohamed, Sheikh Mohammed and Sheikh Mansour, and his wishes for further growth and prosperity for the government and people of the UAE. The King commended the ambassador’s efforts during his tenure to strengthen relations between the UAE and Malaysia and wished him success in his new duties. Khalid also expressed his appreciation to all Malaysian government agencies for their cooperation in enhancing relations between the two countries. – Bernama-WAM PM extends birthday greetings to King KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has congratulated the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, who celebrated his 64th birthday yesterday. In a post on his Facebook page, Anwar said he prayed that Al-Sultan Abdullah would always be blessed by His grace and guidance. “I extend my congratulations to His Majesty Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah Ibni Almarhum Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Al-Musta’in Billah, Sultan and the Ruler of the State of Pahang Darul Makmur in conjunction with His Majesty’s 64th birthday. “I pray to Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala that His Majesty may be forever blessed with divine grace and guidance, and enjoy good health, prosperity, and sovereignty.” – Bernama
3 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS theSUN ON MONDAY | JULY 31, 2023 No checks on students during polls KUALA NERUS: The Higher Education Ministry will not monitor the involvement of students in political activities throughout the six state polls and the Kuala Terengganu parliamentary by-election. Its minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said his ministry allows students the freedom to engage in politics but reminded them to understand certain limitations. “The ministry is not the police. We give them (students) freedom and never conspired to get involved in politics regardless of the political party. However, don’t bring party politics onto the campus.” – Bernama KUALA LUMPUR: Ahead of a century of independence in 2057, Malaysia does not only need a clear plan towards achieving a greater form of Malaysian civilisation but one that also celebrates diversity and racial unity, said constitutional expert Assoc Prof Datuk Dr Shamrahayu Ab Aziz. In proposing the plan, to be called “Gagasan 100 Tahun Malaysia Merdeka”, she said it should be implemented to deal with present and future challenges, Bernama reported. “We need to work on this idea because 100 years is a benchmark to measure the nation’s performance in achieving its ideals as a civilisation. “For ‘Gagasan 100 Tahun Malaysia Merdeka’, I have placed priority on the identity of the country and the races by paying attention to several areas that need to be worked on in terms of community building, allowing the community to improve and empower themselves accordingly,” she said in her keynote speech at the Malay Civilisation Board’s 13th annual general meeting yesterday. Shamrahayu added that the effort is not just about strengthening understanding of the country’s history, race and Islam, but the need to make race and religion a way of life and a national culture. “We also need to invite those of other religions to return to religious education that is compatible with their faith without threatening the position of Islam as the religion of the country.” In addition, Shamrahayu said education and the art of parenting in shaping individuals and families who care about religion in their daily life should be the national agenda. “Through the effort, it is necessary to strengthen and implement policies that are related to the family such as the National Family Policy, which supports the National Social Policy, National Women’s Policy, National Children’s Policy and National Youth Policy.” Shamrahayu said from a legal aspect, the enactment of laws should be in line with religious values because among the main sources of law are customs and religion. “As such, legislators should not – based on modernity or political interests – completely ignore or forget their religious fundamentals when involved in enacting laws.” BN candidate ‘creating history’ KUALA TERENGGANU: State Umno division deputy chief Armi Irzan Mohd described his selection as the Barisan Nasional (BN) candidate for the Bandar seat in the Terengganu state election as “creating history”. This is because the seat he is contesting traditionally belonged to MCA for the past 60 years, in the spirit of the BN coalition, of which Umno is the lynchpin. “History has been created. The Bandar seat was given to Umno after 60 years. I am confident that Umno will be well received by the voters, especially the Chinese community in Bandar as the relationship has been established for so long. “I have been in close contact with the Chinese community in Bandar since 2005. I frequently accompanied former MCA assemblyman Toh Chin Yaw, who served here from 2004 to 2013, delivering assistance and various programmes together. “I don’t think there is a problem with Umno replacing MCA here. God willing, they will accept it,” he said. – Bernama Plan for greater M’sian civilisation oExpert proposes initiative to strengthen identity of country ahead of 100th independence anniversary in 2057 Kedah seen as coveted bounty SUNGAI PETANI: What is so special about Kedah that the Pakatan Harapan (PH)-Barisan Nasional (BN) unity alliance and their rival Perikatan Nasional (PN) are going all out to capture it in the Aug 12 polls? Universiti Sains Malaysia political analyst Prof Dr Sivamurugan Pandian said Kedah is a hotly contested state because it is regarded as a “swing state”. He said the Kedah administration had changed hands after several past general elections and this has prompted contesting parties to place more emphasis on the state this time around. “Kedah voters can swing to any side because of the big number of fence-sitters. They are capable of casting their ballots either way and this makes political parties feel they always have a 50-50 chance. “For the unity coalition, they want to test the effectiveness of their newfound cooperation, which was not established before GE15. “If they win Kedah, it will boost the motivation and determination of the unity government as Kedah voters are predominantly Malays.” Another political analyst, Dr Mazlan Ali, said Kedah is currently under PAS and the menteri besar is seen to be vocal and clashing a lot with the federal government. “So, it is important for BN-PH to capture this state to show they are on the right side,” said Mazlan, who is from the Perdana Centre of Razak Faculty in Universiti Teknologi Malaysia. Meanwhile, Universiti Teknologi Mara Kedah branch political science lecturer Firdaus Ramli said if PH and BN managed to capture Kedah, it would refute claims that it has lost ground among the community, especially in northern Peninsular Malaysia. “Religious and racial sentiments will become the main trend in determining the inclination of voters, especially in northern Kedah, apart from young and outside voters.” Based on Election Commission statistics, 1,585,085 registered voters are eligible to cast their ballots in the Kedah polls, with 104,284 aged between 18 and 20. – Bernama N. Sembilan candidates selection above board: Rafizi SEREMBAN: The selection of PKR candidates for the state election in Negeri Sembilan was done transparently and under processes set by the party, said PKR deputy president Mohd Rafizi Ramli. He added that the party considered the importance of creating opportunities for women, aligning with the party leadership’s goal of rejuvenating the party and promoting gender balance. “There were three screening stages before PKR president (Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim) made the final selection. Even I was not aware of the shortlisted candidates until the official announcement was made. “Before the unity government was formed, PKR could compete for many seats. Now, we only have six. So, we want to make sure that one-third of the six seats are for women candidates. Hence, someone had to withdraw. It is not about who gets it or who doesn’t. It’s the party’s decision,” he said during the Madani Tour Programme on Saturday night. He was responding to allegations by incumbent Ampangan assemblyman Datuk Dr Mohamad Rafie Ab Malek, who claimed he was not nominated as a PKR candidate on instructions by Rafizi and Selangor PH chairman Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun. Rafizi, who is PKR election director, also denied allegations that Mohamad Rafie’s name was dropped because of his criticism against Aminuddin’s leadership as Selangor menteri besar. “There are others who were also dropped. Otherwise, the women will not get a seat at all.” Apart from Mohamad Rafie, other PH candidates who were dropped were incumbent Sri Tanjung assemblyman Datuk M. Ravi, incumbent Chuah assemblyman Datuk Michael Yek Diew Ching and incumbent Pilah assemblyman Mohamad Nazaruddin Sabtu. They were replaced by new faces, namely Tengku Zamrah Tengku Sulaiman for the Ampangan state seat, Dr Rajasekaran (Sri Tanjung), Yew Boon Lye (Chuah) and Nur Zunita Begum (Pilah). The Election Commission has set polling for the six states involved, namely Negeri Sembilan, Selangor, Penang, Kelantan, Terengganu and Kedah, as well as the Kuala Terengganu parliamentary by-election, to be held simultaneously on Aug 12. – Bernama ‘Service politics’ way to win Gurun seat SUNGAI PETANI: Pakatan Harapan (PH) candidate for Gurun, Mohammed Firdaus Johari, is determined to continue his formula of “service politics” to help people should he be given the mandate in the coming state election. He said he had been using the formula for the past five years in ensuring the people’s welfare in the Gurun constituency. Mohammed Firdaus, who is Jerai PH chairman, said his regular visits to the constituency helped him to better understand the problems facing the people. “I have been behind the scenes helping them since (my father) Tan Sri Johari Abdul was given the mandate as Gurun assemblyman and Sungai Petani MP in 2018. “That has been my job and now comes the election campaign. We will intensify and improve existing programmes. We won’t play politics and will focus on community service politics,” he said. – Bernama VIP FARE ... Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz and BN candidate for Sungai Dua Datuk Dr Shaik Hussein Mydin sharing a light moment with residents while helping to cook bubur asyura in Tasek Gelugor, Penang yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC
4 theSUN ON MONDAY | JULY 31, 2023 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS Universiti M’sia Pahang undergoes rebranding KUANTAN: Universiti Malaysia Pahang has been rebranded as Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah 21 years after its inception, said vice-chancellor Prof Datuk Dr Yuserrie Zainuddin. He added that the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah consented to its new name and logo according to the Federal Government Gazette, which came into effect on April 14. Yuserrie said rebranding at the peak of success coincided with its vision of a leading technological university, while keeping the main focus areas, study programmes and enrolment according to its establishment goals. “We will continue to realise aspirations through academic empowerment, internationalisation and impactful research results and to produce quality human capital in driving national development,” he said in a statement yesterday. The institution was first gazetted on Feb 16, 2002 as Kolej Universiti Kejuruteraan dan Teknologi Malaysia, before the government announced a name change on Feb 1, 2007 to Universiti Malaysia Pahang. Yuserrie said its graduate marketability of 98.67% is among the highest nationwide and the rebranding would expand its visibility, reputation and capabilities, in line with its developments and achievements. He also said the varsity’s programmes based on engineering and technology are capable of enriching the Technical and Vocational Education and Training ecosystem, adding that it aims to be a role model of sustainability. He said Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah will continue demonstrating commitment to sustainable development goals as a top institution in the Malaysian Technical University Network, while evaluating efforts in addressing global environmental, social and governance issues. – Bernama Fisherman finds body of missing boy IPOH: A fisherman yesterday found the body of a boy, 10, who was reported missing the day before near Teluk Senangin Beach in Lumut. Perak Fire and Rescue Department operations division assistant director Sabarodzi Nor Ahmad said the victim, identified as Muhammad Faris Irfan, was found at 8.20am. “The body was found about two nautical miles near Tanjung Hantu, where he is believed to have disappeared,” Sabarodzi said in a statement yesterday, adding that the body has been handed to police. He said the department was alerted at 3.20pm on Saturday following a police report lodged by family members at about 1pm. The search operation was initially called off at 6.30pm after failing to find the child, but continued into the night when someone reported seeing Muhammad Faris walking aimlessly at 3.15pm around chalets near the beach. – Bernama Two detained over drone prohibition KOTA BHARU: A 14-year-old was among two male suspects arrested on Saturday for flying drones near state election nomination centres. Kelantan police chief Datuk Muhamad Zaki Harun said the first case occurred at 9.45am at the Pasir Mas Vocational College centre in Bunut Susu. “We seized a DJI Mini 3 Pro drone and a remote control device, while the suspect was arrested and taken to the Pasir Mas district police headquarters for further action.” He said the second case was reported to have occurred at 10am at the Teachers Education Institute centre in Pengkalan Chepa. “A 14-year-old boy was spotted flying a drone in the vicinity, which was confiscated along with an iPhone 7 Plus.” – Bernama Selangor police issue 74 campaigning, rally permits SHAH ALAM: Selangor police have issued 74 permits statewide as of Saturday to hold election activities and ceramah. State police chief Datuk Hussein Omar Khan said 34 permits involved campaigning while the rest were for rallies. “We have not found any campaigns or talks (planned) without a permit. We advise the candidates and community to respect and obey laws throughout the state election,” he said in a statement yesterday. Hussein also reminded candidates to avoid raising religion, royalty and race issues or making statements that could threaten public safety and order. – Bernama Johor flood mitigation projects eagerly awaited BATU PAHAT: Johoreans have expressed anticipation for the government’s move to expedite the implementation of flood mitigation projects. Kampung Parit Jayus resident and oil palm estate worker Mohd Suhaimi Sallehuddin, 48, expressed hope that the projects would be carried out soon because such disasters have become more frequent. “We previously only experienced floods once a year between October and December, but the incidents have become a regular occurrence in the past five years and now occur at any time.” Trader Siti Nurneeza Esa, 34, shared his view, saying the projects need to be thorough in their implementation. “I hope the projects will last and are not just a short term solution. Careful studies and research must be conducted to solve the problem once and for all. “My house was hit by floods twice this year alone. The first time in January, the water receded after a few days. Then, it happened again in March and the water rose to two metres. “We are tired of having to (always) take shelter at relief centres.” Parit Ahmad resident and factory worker Hamidin Sukiman, 25, said many individuals are still traumatised by the major flood in March, which affected 85,000 residents. “I feel anxious and panicky every time it gets dark, because I fear the floods would happen again.” Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced last week during the launch of the “Madani Economy: Empowering the People” initiative that flood mitigation projects in Kelantan, Pahang, Selangor and Johor will be expedited to protect communities. Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi said on July 12 the government has allocated RM1.6 billion for its implementation, involving the Muar River Basin in Segamat and the Johor River Basin covering Kota Tinggi and Batu Pahat. – Bernama Boat parade back at S’wak 60th independence event KUCHING: After a decade of not organising decorated boat parades in the state, the Sarawak River was once again enlivened with colourful neon lights on Saturday night, in conjunction with the 60th anniversary of Sarawak’s independence. Held along the Kuching Waterfont, Pengkalan Sapi, Kampung Boyan jetty and waterfront, a total of 20 decorated boats from various ministries, agencies and private companies participated in the parade, Bernama reported. One of the decorated boats that participated in the parade. – BERNAMAPIC oPerformance by jetski riders, decorated vessels attract 10,000 visitors at Kuching Waterfront The celebration, themed “Sarawak Maju Makmur 2030”, attracted about 10,000 visitors along the Kuching Waterfront to capture the beautiful moments of the parade against the backdrop of the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly building. The event started at 8.15pm with the arrival of Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Abang Openg and his wife Puan Sri Juma’ani Tuanku Bujang. Leading the parade were eight jetski riders and boats from the Sarawak Security and Enforcement Unit, followed by 25 fare sampans, which are traditional water transport vessels, and 20 decorated boats. Among the state ministries that competed for the title of best decorated boat were the Sarawak Premier’s Department, Utility and Telecommunication Ministry, Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Ministry and the Infrastructure and Port Development Ministry. The float by Samling Timber Malaysia emerged champion and took the winner’s prize of RM10,000. Junaidah Mohd Nor, 54, from Selangor, said she took the opportunity to celebrate the event with her husband and children. “I’ve been living and working in Sarawak for six years, so I didn’t want to miss the opportunity for this event, that hasn’t been held in 10 years.” Meanwhile, a visitor from Pontianak in Indonesia, Benozi Tamrin, 25, said he did not expect his four-day vacation with 13 family members would be more meaningful as they had the chance to watch the parade. “We were informed by Immigration Department personnel that there was a big event in Kuching at night when we were about to come here on Saturday afternoon. We were really excited because the atmosphere is different from that in Pontianak.”
theSUN ON MONDAY | JULY 31, 2023 5 Daulat Tuanku MERAFAK SEMBAH DAN SETINGGI-TINGGI UCAPAN TAHNIAH SEMPENA KEBAWAH DULI YANG MAHA MULIA AL-SULTAN ABDULLAH RI’AYATUDDIN AL-MUSTAFA BILLAH SHAH IBNI ALMARHUM SULTAN HAJI AHMAD SHAH AL-MUSTA’IN BILLAH, DKP., DKM., DK., DMN., SSAP., SIMP., DK (TERENGGANU)., DK (JOHOR)., S.P.M.J., D.K.M.B(BRUNEI)., DK (KEDAH)., DK (PERLIS)., DK (PERAK)., DK (SELANGOR)., ORDER OF THE STATE OF THE REPUBLIC OF TURKIYE. Sembah Takzim Daripada Pengerusi Pengasas & Penasihat Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif Kumpulan Bersama Lembaga Pengarah Pengurusan dan Kakitangan SULTAN DAN RAJA PEMERINTAH BAGI NEGERI PAHANG DARUL MAKMUR SERTA SEGALA JAJAHAN TAKLUKNYA MEMULIAKAN SAMBUTAN HARI ULANG TAHUN KEPUTERAAN YANG KE-64 KEBAWAH DULI YANG MAHA MULIA SULTAN PAHANG PADA 30 JULAI 2023 (AHAD) BERSAMAAN 12 MUHARRAM 1445 HIJRAH
6 theSUN ON MONDAY | JULY 31, 2023 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS Three Bali officials arrested over organ trafficking JAKARTA: Three Bali immigration officers have been arrested for their alleged role in an illegal organ trafficking syndicate that ferried dozens of victims to Cambodia to sell their kidneys, Indonesian police said on Saturday. The move comes as authorities crack down on the suspected illegal organ trade ring, arresting 12 members last week – including a police officer and an immigration officer identified as AH – accused of smuggling 122 victims abroad. The three Bali immigration officers are accused of working with AH, who allegedly took bribes to allow victims lured by the trafficking ring to easily pass through immigration checks to Cambodia for kidney surgeries. “(They) will be brought to Jakarta this afternoon and will be under Jakarta police custody,” said Jakarta police director for general crimes Hengki Haryadi. At least 18 of the kidney donor victims left Bali for Cambodia between March and June, he said. Authorities believe there are more victims and are looking for them to come forward. Some of the members of the cell are former donors who became recruiters using Facebook and WhatsApp to lure and trade victims. The organ trafficking ring has been operating since 2019, earning 24.4 billion rupiah (RM7.2 million) in total, Hengki told reporters. The traffickers received 200 million rupiah for each kidney, pocketing 65 million rupiah and giving the rest to the victims. The organs were harvested at Preah Ket Mealea Hospital in Cambodian capital Phnom Penh, police said. Organ trading is outlawed in Indonesia and the 10 syndicate members arrested last week face 15 years in prison and 600 million rupiah in fines if found guilty of violating the country’s human trafficking law. The police officer was accused of obstructing the investigation and receiving bribes to help the accused traffickers move locations. He faces five years in prison if found guilty. Immigration officer AH is accused of abuse of power and faces up to 20 years in prison. Cash-strapped Indonesians have previously been caught selling their kidneys online for as little as 50 million rupiah each. Much of the desperate trade is driven by poverty, family debt or outstanding bank loans. Many of the 122 victims had lost their jobs in the pandemic and were exploited because of precarious financial situations, Hengki said. – AFP Australian army grounds Taipan helicopters after crash CANBERRA: Australia’s military will ground its fleet of MRH-90 Taipan helicopters after a crash during multinational military exercises that left four crew members missing, the army chief said yesterday. The helicopter crashed into waters near the Whitsunday Islands off Australia’s subtropical northeast late on Friday, sparking a search by the militaries of three nations. However, hopes of finding the missing crew were fading. Army chief Lieutenant General Simon Stuart told reporters yesterday that Australia would ground its fleet of 45 Taipan helicopters. “We are not flying the MRH-90 today and won’t until we think it is safe to do so.” Even before the incident, Canberra had announced it would replace its ageing Taipan helicopters with US-made Black Hawks. Officials have complained about having to repeatedly ground the European-made Taipans, citing difficulties with maintenance and getting spare parts. Stuart said the current aim was to keep the Taipans in service until 2024 but “what happens between now and then, from what we learn from this incident, is yet to be determined”. The aircraft that crashed on Friday night was taking part in the Talisman Sabre exercise, which brings together 30,000 military personnel from Australia, the United States and several other nations. Specialist divers have joined the hundreds-strong search for the missing pilot and three other crew. Debris from the crash was recovered on Saturday, with Channel 9 television footage showing a section of the fuselage being lifted from the water. – AFP Thai warehouse explosion kills 10, injures 115 BANGKOK: The death toll from a powerful explosion that levelled an unlicensed fireworks warehouse in southern Thailand rose to at least 10 yesterday, the local governor said. The blast on Saturday afternoon in the town of Sungai Kolok was believed to have been caused by welding during construction work on the building. More than 100 people were injured in the blast, which left only twisted metal beams still standing as rescue workers picked over the debris, with local media reporting hundreds of homes were also seriously damaged. “We have identified 10 people and found parts of two bodies which we cannot identify yet,” Narathiwat provincial governor Sanan Pongaksorn told a press conference yesterday. “We are sending to forensics to do DNA tests but primary reports said they were different (people).” Sanan had previously said the blast was believed to have been caused by a “technical error” during welding. Police said yesterday they were still investigating the cause, adding they believed the facility was not licensed to store fireworks. Provincial commander Police Major General Chalermporn Khamkhiew said firecrackers had been delivered shortly before the explosion. “We are investigating if those firecrackers were transported legally or illegally. “As of now, we do not see any Policemen, rescue crew and locals gathering around destroyed homes at the scene. – AFPPIC oPolice seeking owner to face negligence charges Tens of thousands evacuated in northern China BEIJING: Tens of thousands of people were evacuated from flood-prone areas of Beijing as Typhoon Doksuri lashed China’s capital with heavy rain yesterday and residents were urged to stay indoors. The deadly storm has been sweeping northeast over China since Friday, when it careened into the southern Fujian province after battering the Philippines. The capital and surrounding region were drenched over the weekend, with officials warning of potentially hazardous conditions including floods, swelling rivers, mudslides and landslides. More than 27,000 people in high-risk areas of Beijing have been evacuated, and another 20,000 were relocated from parts of Hebei’s capital Shijiazhuang, state media said. Hundreds of millions of people in northern China, including in Beijing, remain under a red alert – the highest level – for heavy precipitation. It is the first time since 2011 that such a heavy rainfall warning has been issued, according to local media. Beijing residents were urged not to go outside unless necessary, advice that appeared widely heeded with the usually buzzing streets empty of many cars or pedestrians. Many popular sites in the capital were temporarily closed, including the Forbidden City, libraries and museums. The sprawling National Centre for the Performing Arts, located near Tiananmen Square, cancelled opera and musical performances. China has posted record temperatures this summer, with scientists saying the extreme weather was being exacerbated by climate change. – AFP B R I E F SEIGHT TRAPPED IN MINE FEARED DEAD JAKARTA: Eight people trapped in an illegal gold mine on the Indonesian island of Java are feared dead, a local rescue official said yesterday, as search efforts entered a fifth day with little progress. The workers were digging inside a hole with a depth of 60m in Pancurendang village in Central Java on Tuesday evening when water suddenly flooded the illegal mine. Rescuers had deployed water pumps around the clock and worked to dam a nearby river in a frantic bid to get the water out of the mining shaft but it remained flooded yesterday. “This is already the fifth day. We expect the bad news that the victims have died,” local search and rescue agency head Adah Sudarsa told reporters. – AFP MOROCCO APPEALS FOR ‘NORMALITY’ RABAT: Morocco’s King Mohammed VI has expressed hope for a return to normality and reopening of borders with North African neighbour Algeria, which cut diplomatic ties nearly two years ago. “We pray for a return to normality and a reopening of the borders between our two neighbouring countries and our brotherly peoples,” the 59-year-old king said on Saturday in a speech to mark the anniversary of his accension to the throne in 1999. The borders have been closed since 1994, leaving families divided after Morocco accused its neighbour of involvement in a militant attack on a Marrakesh hotel that killed two tourists. Algeria then sealed the frontiers. – AFP licence for possession of firecrackers or firecracker sales. “We assume the factory has no licence.” The blast detonated roughly 1,000kg of gunpowder, he said, leaving two holes roughly 2m deep and 6m wide. “We have issued a summons to the owner of the factory with the charge of negligence, which caused the accident,” said Muno district police chief Colonel Suthawet Thareethai. “We are waiting for him to come.” Officials said a command centre had been established not far from the scene, and authorities had already received 365 complaints from those who had been injured or had their homes and property damaged. Damage to government offices and private schools was also reported, they added. Police said that of the 115 people injured in the blast, 106 had been discharged. The condition of those remaining in hospital was not known. A fire sparked by the explosion was brought under control on Saturday night. Residents surveyed the wreckage where their homes once stood yesterday as officers and emergency crews sifted through the rubble. “I have nothing left,” said Samsueya Chuenchompoo, whose house was destroyed. “I don’t even have a roof over my head now. “When there was a flood, I still could survive but now I really have nothing left.” Another affected resident, Sudarat Nooliteh, said her home had disappeared. “I have no place to sleep. I have no food. I have no money,” she said. – AFP
7 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS theSUN ON MONDAY | JULY 31, 2023 Top US diplomat snubs Australian call to end Assange case WASHINGTON: US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Saturday pushed back against Canberra’s demands for an end to WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange’s prosecution, saying the Australian citizen was accused of “very serious criminal conduct” in publishing a trove of classified documents more than a decade ago. Australia’s centre-left Labor government has been arguing since winning the elections last year that the United States should end its pursuit of the 52-year-old, who has spent four years in a British prison fighting extradition to the US. Assange’s freedom is widely seen as a test of Australia’s leverage with President Joe Biden’s administration. Blinken confirmed on Saturday that Assange had been discussed in annual talks with Foreign Minister Penny Wong in Brisbane, Australia. “I understand the concerns and views of Australians. “I think it’s very important that our friends here understand our concerns about this matter,” Blinken told reporters. “Assange was charged with very serious criminal conduct in the United States in connection with his alleged role in one of the largest compromises of classified information in the history of our country.” Wong said Assange’s prosecution had “dragged for too long” and that Australia wanted the charges “brought to a conclusion”. Australia remains ambiguous about whether the US should drop the prosecution or strike a plea bargain. Assange faces 17 charges of espionage and one charge of computer misuse over WikiLeaks’ publication of hundreds of thousands of classified diplomatic and military documents in 2010. – The Independent B R I E F SCANADA FIREMAN DIES BATTLING BLAZES OTTAWA: A firefighter has died battling one of the massive blazes devastating Canada’s forests this year, British Columbia’s premier announced on Saturday. It marked the third death of a firefighter during this devastating wildfire season. “I am devastated to learn that we have lost another wildfire fighter. My heart goes out to the family, friends and colleagues of this frontline hero,” Premier David Eby said in a statement. Eby did not identify the contract firefighter, but authorities said the victim was at the Donnie Creek wildfire, near Fort St John, in the northeast of the province. Two other firefighters have perished in separate operations this month. – AFP NIGER JUNTA WARNS OF INTERVENTION NIAMEY: The leaders of Niger’s military coup said yesterday they believed regional body Ecowas was on the point of staging a military intervention in the capital of the Sahel country. Speaking ahead of an Ecowas crisis summit on Niger yesterday, the junta said: “The aim of this meeting is to approve a plan of aggression against Niger, in the form of an imminent military intervention in Niamey, in cooperation with African countries who are not members of the regional body and certain Western nations.” The statement was read out on national television by Amadou Abdramane, a member of the junta which this week ousted elected President Mohamed Bazoum and declared itself in charge. – AFP Drones target Moscow, Crimea MOSCOW: Russia said yesterday it had downed Ukrainian drones targeting Moscow and the Crimea peninsula, in attacks that damaged two office towers in the capital and briefly shut an international airport. One drone targeting Moscow was shot down on the city’s outskirts and two others were “suppressed by electronic warfare” and smashed into an office complex early yesterday, the Russian Defence Ministry said, adding that there were no injuries. Moscow and its environs, lying about 500km from oRussia says ‘attempted terrorist attack’ thwarted, no injuries reported the Ukrainian border, had rarely been targeted during the conflict in Ukraine until several drone attacks this year. The attack reported yesterday is the latest in a series of recent drone assaults – including on the Kremlin and Russian towns near the border with Ukraine – that Moscow has blamed on Kyiv. The Defence Ministry called it an “attempted terrorist attack”. “On the morning of July 30, the Kyiv regime’s attempted terrorist attack with unmanned aerial vehicles on objects in the city of Moscow was thwarted,” it said on Telegram. “One Ukrainian UAV was destroyed in the air by air defence systems over the territory of the Odintsovo district of Moscow region. “Two more drones were suppressed by electronic warfare and, having lost control, Colombian president’s son arrested on money laundering charges BOGOTA: Colombian President Gustavo Petro’s son Nicolas was arrested on Saturday on charges of money laundering and illicit enrichment in a scandal linked to Petro’s election campaign, officials said. Colombia’s first leftist president wrote on Twitter, which is being rebranded as X, that police arrested his son and the son’s ex-wife Daysuris Vasquez. Security agents arrested Nicolas, 37, and Vasquez in the coastal city of Barranquilla and brought them to the capital Bogota, where prosecutors said they were secured under heavy guard at a bunker awaiting a court hearing. In March, in an interview with the magazine Semana, Vasquez alleged that Nicolas received large amounts of money from drug traffickers and smugglers last year for his father’s ultimately successful presidential campaign. But instead, Nicolas used it to live in luxury in Barranquilla, Vasquez alleged. Petro wrote: “I wish my son luck and strength. May these events build his character and may he reflect on his mistakes.” “As a person and father it hurts to see so much self-destruction,” he added, and vowed to stay out of the legal proceedings involving his son. Prosecutors confirmed the arrest of Nicolas on charges of money laundering and illicit enrichment. Vasquez was also charged with money laundering. Since the scandal broke, Petro has denied receiving money from the country’s powerful cocaine lords. He himself asked that his son be investigated. Nicolas was a lawmaker for his father’s party in the northern Atlantic department. News outlets published bank records of his showing he had far more assets than his salary from Congress justified. Vasquez said in the March interview with Semana that her former husband received the equivalent of US$124,000 (RM565,000) from a former drug trafficker named Samuel Santander Lopesierra. She said Petro was not aware of the money Nicolas got from the convicted trafficker. Lopesierra served 18 years in prison in the US for drug trafficking. – AFP crashed on the territory of Moscow-City’s non-residential building complex.” Moscow-City is a commercial development in the west of the capital. Its mayor Sergei Sobyanin posted on Telegram that the “facades of two city office towers were slightly damaged”. He added that there were “no victims or injured”. Several windows had been blown out on the corner of the buildings, AFP photos showed, with mangled steel beams visible and documents strewn on the ground below. Tass state news agency reported that the capital’s Vnukovo Airport was “closed for departures and arrivals, flights are redirected to other airports”. Within less than an hour, operations appeared to have returned to normal. Earlier this month, a volley of drone attacks briefly disrupted air traffic at the same airport, to the city’s southwest. The Defence Ministry also said yesterday that 16 Ukrainian drones were destroyed by air defence fire in an overnight attack on Crimea, a peninsula Moscow annexed in 2014. “Another nine Ukrainian drones were suppressed by means of electronic warfare and, without reaching the target, crashed into the Black Sea,” the ministry said, adding that there were no victims. – AFP American nurse, child kidnapped in Haiti WASHINGTON: An American nurse and her child have been kidnapped in Haiti, a Christian aid group said on Saturday, days after the US government ordered its non-essential personnel out of the impoverished Caribbean country due to spiralling insecurity. Alix Dorsainvil and her child were kidnapped on Thursday morning near Haiti’s capital Port-au-Prince, El Roi Haiti said in a statement on its website. She is the wife of the group’s director, who is Haitian, and the mother and child were taken from the El Roi campus “while serving in our community ministry”. “Alix is a deeply compassionate and loving person who considers Haiti her home and the Haitian people her friends and family,” El Roi said. “Alix has worked tirelessly as our school and community nurse to bring relief to those who are suffering as she loves and serves the people of Haiti.” Their kidnapping came after the US State Department issued an updated travel advisory on Thursday, saying Americans in Haiti should depart “as soon as possible in light of the current security situation and infrastructure challenges.” The US government is “extremely limited in its ability” to assist Americans in the country, who may need emergency help, it said, warning that “kidnapping is widespread”. – AFP RACE AGAINST TIME ... A rescue vessel sailing next to the Fremantle Highway, after a fire broke out on the Panamanian-registered car carrier ship on July 25 off the Dutch coast. Dutch authorities have been trying for several days to put out the fire, which killed one crew member. An electric car is suspected of sparking the deadly blaze and officials said nearly 500 of the vehicles were on board. – AFPPIC/ NETHERLANDS COASTGUARDS
8 theSUN ON MONDAY | JULY 31, 2023 SPEAK UP Or download app on the AppStore or Google Play ENJOY A SEAMLESS READING EXPERIENCE. Read our iPaper at https://www.thesundaily.my/ Derisking, decoupling and de-Sinicisation THIRTEEN years ago, China’s foremost social science think tank, the China Academy of Social Sciences (CASS), compared the country’s competitive standing with other nations in the world. CASS estimated that China could be among the top five most competitive countries in the G20 only by 2020. It was also noted that it would be another 40 years before China could emerge as the second-most powerful nation next to the US. The same report warned that China’s core competitiveness could not match its ranking when it comes to high-level talents or in the fields of culture, education, health, science and technology. It pointed out that China’s index of high-level talents stands at 8.3% of the US and 10% of Japan. In the field of higher education, China’s index was only 10% of the European Union and one-third that of the US. Though China ranked fourth in higher education competitiveness in 2008, most first-class universities are still in the EU and the US. The report also noted that the country’s science and technology competitiveness index is less than one-third that of the US. Fast forward to today and China’s ranking of scientific and technological achievement has changed quite dramatically. According to the Australian Strategic Policy Institute (ASPI), China has built the foundations to position itself as the world’s leading science and technology superpower by establishing ”a sometimes stunning lead in high-impact research across the majority of critical and emerging technology domains”. China’s global lead presently extends to 37 of the 44 technologies that ASPI tracks, and covers a range of crucial technology fields spanning defence, space, robotics, energy, the environment, biotechnology, artificial intelligence, advanced materials and key quantum technology areas. ASPI’s Critical Technology Tracker showed that for some technologies, all of the world’s top 10 leading research institutions are based in China and are collectively generating nine times more high-impact research papers than the second-ranked country, most often the US. While the gap between China and developed countries in the West in the sciences has narrowed, within the country’s think tanks, there is recognition that China is still not a highly developed country in other spheres. What stands in the way of China’s development today stems mainly from outside forces, notably the US and its allies. Beginning with Donald Trump’s presidency and now intensifying with Joe Biden’s administration, US strategies involving geopolitical, economic and military measures have evolved to inflict damage on China and the Communist Party of China, including through the instigation of regime change. Despite encircling China with the greatest number of military bases, the US is aware that China is capable of inflicting more than grievous damage on the US. Decoupling On June 27, Hungary Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto said at the World Economic Forum annual conference in Tianjin, China: “Both decoupling and derisking would be a suicide committed by the European economy. How can you decouple without killing the European economy?” On April 30, Mercedes CEO Ola Kallenius told the newspaper Bild am Sonntag that decoupling from China, the world’s second largest economy, is “unthinkable for almost all of German industry”. “The major players in the global economy, Europe, the US and China, are so closely intertwined that decoupling from China makes no sense.” And on June 21, during a visit to China, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz told Premier Li Qiang that the German side welcomes China’s development and prosperity, stating that Germany rejects all forms of decoupling, and that “derisking” is not “de-Sinicisation”. https://english.news.cn/20230622/f53ad ca4691b403e95d964fb969880e1/c.html Currently, the preferred US modus operandi to squeeze China is through a combination of economic and geopolitical pressure and the use of Western media in its daily anti-China reporting. The fiercest battles fought on these fronts are in the Indo-Pacific region and Europe where the US is actively engaged in pressurising countries to decouple from China. Sometimes couched in politically polite terms, such as “derisking” or “containing”, this unprecedented economic offensive in the US has involved export and import controls, divestment orders, licensing denials, visa bans, financial and related sanctions, tariffs, anti-China technology rules, federal and state actions and law enforcement measures. The objective is to cripple China’s economy so that the Chinese government will learn to live as a suppliant state beholden to US hegemony in the same way as other US allies. How this battle over decoupling turns out in the Indo-Pacific and European regions may well determine the course of great power rivalry as well as progress towards a new international order. Resisting hegemony and unipolar world Besides countering or turning the other cheek to the US and ally provocation, China has focused on bringing its scientific and technological resources to tackle global development issues, not only those of great power rivalry. Some of the world’s leading mathematicians, physicists and computer scientists were recently invited to Beijing for the inaugural International Congress of Basic Science event. Presently ongoing, the event brings together experts to discuss, collaborate and explore cutting-edge issues across mathematics, theoretical physics, theoretical computing and the information sciences. (https://www.icbs.cn/en/web/index/). In addition to speaking on their specialised area of expertise, some of the top scientists have spoken out in support of the importance of international collaboration and exchange. In contrast to those calling for the isolation of China through decoupling, these leaders of science recognise that science knows no borders and reject decoupling in the world of knowledge and science and technology fields. Many scientists present at the meeting are aware of the costs of scientific decoupling targetted at China. The world, including the West, needs China’s pool of scientists and technologists to work on health, environment, food security, climate change and other social and economic challenges that are most pressing in developing nations but which also have knock-on and direct effects on the developed world. The derisking, decoupling and de-Sinicisation strategy that the US and some Asian and European countries pursue will not only turn back the clock on the interests of the West but also impede the march of progress towards a multipolar and more sustainable world. Lim Teck Ghee’s Another Take is aimed at demystifying social orthodoxy. Comments: [email protected] “The derisking, decoupling and de-Sinicisation strategy that the US and some Asian and European countries pursue will not only turn back the clock on the interests of the West but also impede the march of progress towards a multipolar and more sustainable world. According to ASPI, China has built the foundations to position itself as the world’s leading science and technology superpower. – REUTERSPIC ANOTHER TAKE BY LIM TECK GHEE
9 SPEAK UP theSUN ON MONDAY | JULY 31, 2023 Spotting signs of teenage depression ADOLESCENTS are those aged 13 to 17 years old, and there are 5.5 million adolescents in Malaysia. More than half of them are in schools. These youngsters are valuable assets to the country as they will become future leaders, who will continue to drive and sustain the development of the nation. Though perceived as the healthiest population group, they do face their own set of unique problems and healthcare needs. According to the Malaysian Health and Morbidity Survey 2017, one in five teenagers in Malaysia is depressed, two out of five suffer from anxiety and one in 10 is stressed. The survey also found that at least one in 10, or 10% of the 5.5 million youths in the country, has thoughts of committing suicide. Transition years Teenage years can be challenging. Between physical changes in the body, intense peer pressure and an increased sense of social anxiety, teenagers often have difficulties finding their place, especially in society. Many want to fit in while others want to stand out, which can cause them to rebel. Teenage depression is also becoming more common during the transition years. Recent research has found that the rate of depression is increasing, and that there are distinct gender differences in teenage depression. Adolescence is a natural transition from being a child to growing into an adult. While women of all ages tend to be more aware of their appearances than men, especially in terms of how others see them, most young people start to develop a heightened sense of socialisation as they enter their teenage years. As children, their clothing choices and hairstyles are not as important to them. As teenagers, their entire social life may depend on those factors, at least in their eyes. What is teenage depression? The mental and emotional disorder known as teenage depression is no different medically from adult depression. However, brains of adolescents are structurally different than the brains of adults. Teenagers with depression can also have hormone differences and varying levels of neurotransmitter, which are key chemicals in the brain that affect how brain cells communicate with one another. They play an important role in regulating moods and behaviour. The neurotransmitters that are important to our understanding of depression are serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine. Low levels of these neurotransmitters may contribute to depression. Depression can be associated with high levels of stress, anxiety and – in most serious scenarios – suicide. However, symptoms in teenagers may manifest themselves in different ways than in adults. This may be because teenagers face different social and developmental challenges. As teenagers, depression can also affect the aspects of their personal life, school, work, social, family life and can lead to social isolation and other problems. Difference between male and female Teenage depression is gender-related. Females are three times more likely than males to report a depressive episode. The difference in depression rates can be attributed to the differences in the rate of physical changes between boys and girls. Puberty typically starts earlier and hormonal changes tend to be more evident in young girls. Teenage girls are also inclined to be more concerned with how others perceive them. Teenagers and social media repercussions The rise in depression rates among teenagers also coincides with the rise in popularity of the smartphone. Today’s teenagers have not known a world of social interaction that does not include social media. Both young men and women spend a significant amount of time on their smartphones these days. According to the National Health and Morbidity Survey 2017, six in seven secondary school adolescents in Malaysia are active internet users and from those, two are addicted, with Form Five students showing the highest rate of internet addiction, at 38%, compared with Form One students at 18%. In another study done by the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund, it was reported that Malaysia ranked second in Asia in 2020 for cyberbullying among youths, proving that cyberbullying is becoming a prominent problem in the country. The use of smartphones and social media appears to correlate with the increase in depression rates among teenagers, especially among teenage girls. One reason for this may be that girls spend more time socialising on their smartphones, including texting and interacting on social media. Boys also text and use social media but tend to use their smartphones more for playing games. An association has been found between moderate and heavy digital media use and the increased rate of mental health issues and worsened psychological well-being among teenage girls. One study found that the rate of depression also aligns with the amount of time spent on social media. In that study, girls who spent six hours or more on social media were significantly unhappy than those who spent only 30 minutes a day on social media. The differences were less noticeable in boys. Spotting depression The symptoms of depression can often be difficult for parents to spot. Depression is sometimes confused with the typical feelings of puberty and teenage adjustment. Signs of depression include a change in the teenager’s attitude and behaviour that can cause significant distress and problems at school or home, in social activities or in other areas of life. Symptoms can vary in severity but changes in your teenager’s emotions and behaviour may include the examples below: 0 Feelings of sadness, which can include crying spells for no apparent reason; 0 Frustration or feelings of anger even over small matters; 0 Feeling hopeless, helpless or empty; 0 Irritable or annoyed, having selfinjurious behaviour; 0 Loss of interest or pleasure in usual activities; 0 Loss of interest in or conflict with family and friends; 0 Low self-esteem; 0 Feelings of worthlessness and unrealistic guilt; 0 Fixation on past failures or exaggerated self-blame or self-criticism; 0 Extreme sensitivity to rejection or failure, and the need for excessive reassurance; 0 Trouble thinking, concentrating, making decisions and remembering things, poor school performance; 0 Ongoing sense that life and the future are grim and bleak; 0 Changes in appetite and weight, less attention to personal hygiene or appearance; 0 Alcohol or drug misuse; 0 Changes in sleeping habits, insomnia, frequent complaints of unexplained body aches and headaches; 0 Frequent thoughts of death, dying or suicide. The intention of these behaviours is not usually to end one’s life but they must be taken seriously. They are typically transient and usually end as the teenager develops better impulse control and other coping skills. It is not known exactly what causes depression but a variety of issues may be involved. These include: brain chemistry, hormones, inherited traits, early childhood trauma and learned patterns of negative thinking. Factors that may increase risk of depression: 0 Personal/personality issues – having a difficult time with their sexual orientation, in the case of teenagers who are lesbians, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual and more; 0 Having trouble adjusting socially; 0 Having no social or emotional support; 0 Living in a violent household – is a victim or witness of violence, such as physical or sexual abuse; 0 Having issues that negatively impact self-esteem, such as obesity, peer pressure, being bullied; 0 Having a chronic illness, mental health conditions, such as bipolar, anxiety and personality disorders, anorexia or bulimia; 0 Having a learning disability or attentiondeficit/hyperactivity disorder. Untreated depression can result in emotional, behavioural and health problems that can affect a teenager’s life. Complications related to teenage depression may include: alcohol and drug misuse, academic problems, family conflicts and relationship difficulties, suicide attempts or suicide. Diagnosing teenage depression For proper treatment, it is recommended that a psychologist or psychiatrist perform a psychological evaluation, asking the teenager a series of questions about their moods, behaviours and thoughts. The evaluation should also take into account the teenagers’ family history, school performance and comfort in peer settings. A physical examination may also be used to help rule out other causes. Some medical conditions can also contribute to depression. Medications are used to treat teenage depression. Just as depression has no single cause, there is no single treatment to help everyone who has it. It can take time to determine which one works best. Medication and psychotherapy Treatment for adolescents with depression is usually a combination of medication and psychotherapy. Teenagers with depression should see a qualified mental health professional before or at the same time as starting medication therapy. Psychotherapy has been found to be effective for treating depressed teenagers who have turned to substance abuse and those who are engaging in self-destructive behaviour. Cognitive behavioural therapy or interpersonal therapy (IPT) during psychotherapy sessions can help by replacing negative thoughts and emotions with good ones. In IPT, the aim is to strengthen personal relationships by improving communication and problem-solving skills. Parents or caregivers will participate in select sessions. It can be difficult to tell the difference between the ups and downs that are part of being a teenager. Talk to your teenager. Try to determine whether he or she is capable of managing challenging feelings or if life seems overwhelming. If depression signs and symptoms continue, interact with your teenager. If you have cause to be concerned about your teenager’s safety, talk to a doctor or a mental health professional trained to work with adolescents. Your family doctor or pediatrician is a good place to start. Depression symptoms will not likely get better on their own and they may get worse or lead to other problems if untreated. Depressed teenagers may be at risk of suicide even if signs and symptoms do not appear to be severe. If you are a teenager and you are depressed or have a friend who may be depressed, do not wait to get help. Talk to a healthcare provider, such as a doctor or school nurse. Share your concerns with a parent, close friend, spiritual leader, teacher or someone you trust. There is no sure way to prevent depression. However, these strategies may help: 0 Take steps to control stress, increase resilience and boost self-esteem to help handle issues when they arise; 0 Practise self-care, for example by creating a healthy sleep routine and using electronics responsibly and in moderation; 0 Reach out for friendship and social support, especially in times of crisis; 0 Get treatment at the earliest sign of a problem to help prevent depression from worsening; 0 Maintain ongoing treatment, if recommended, even after symptoms let up, to help prevent a relapse of depression symptoms. The writer is a Psychiatrist at KPJ Ampang Puteri Specialist Hospital. Comments: [email protected] The use of smartphones and social media appears to correlate with the increase in depression rates among teenagers. – REUTERSPIC “Depression can be associated with high levels of stress, anxiety and – in most serious scenarios – suicide. However, symptoms may manifest themselves in different ways than in adults because teenagers face different social and developmental challenges.
10 theSUN ON MONDAY | JULY 31, 2023 MEDIA & MARKETING Lotus Stores supports school innovation challenge KUALA LUMPUR: In its aspiration to become a sustainable retailer, Lotus Stores (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd (Lotus Malaysia) joined forces with the Malaysia-Japan International Institute of Technology (MJIIT) and Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), leading to the creation of Malaysia’s first National Sustainability Innovation Challenge 2023 (NaSIC’23) for schools. The objective of NaSIC’23 is to encourage creative, innovative thinkers and problem solvers who are interested in environmental issues by providing them with exposure to green technology, engineering, science solutions, and real industry cases relating to reducing, reusing, recycling, and replacing single-use plastics in retail. Corporate Services Executive Director of Lotus Malaysia, Azliza Azmel, said, “This is our first collaboration with MJIIT-UTM to gather brilliant school-going Malaysians to explore and express their innovative ideas; to address real challenges in the retail industry, with the potential to become workable solutions fit not only for Lotus but for other retailers in Malaysia. “We hope that with NaSIC’23, this will in many ways help to integrate sustainability into all aspects of education in Malaysia and empower Malaysian youth to create a sustainable future”. In April this year, NaSIC’23 successfully garnered participation from 390 students, aged 14 to 18, representing 77 schools from West and East Malaysia. At the finals in Lotus Selayang, 21 students from seven teams showcased their ideas to a panel of judges from both Lotus and MJIITUTM. Among the judges were Sushmita Paul, Chief Operating Officer of Lotus Malaysia; Azliza Azmel, Corporate Services Executive Director of Lotus Malaysia, Professor Dr Masafumi Goto, Deputy Dean of Liaison and Internationalisation, MJIITUTM Kuala Lumpur; and Associate Professor Dr Roshafima Rasit Ali, Postgraduate Academic Manager of MJIIT-UTM Kuala Lumpur. At the award ceremony, the top Lotus promotes sustainable education for a sustainable future. three teams were awarded cash vouchers worth RM1200, RM900, and RM600, respectively. The winning team for NaSIC’23 was Team Blitz, representing Maktab Rendah Sains MARA (MRSM) Kubang Pasu in Kedah, for utilising biodegradable and compostable plastic using rambutan seeds. The first and second runner-up, Vision Secondary School from Tawau, Sabah, submitted a proposal related to using watersoluble bags for dry produce, and Sekolah Menengah Sains Seri Puteri, KL, proposed awarding points for those customers who returned plastic packaging. Professor Technologist Dr Abdul Latif Saleh, Pro-Vice Chancellor, UTM Kuala Lumpur Campus, said, “Sustainable development is a collaborative effort. We can see how Malaysia is working towards phasing out single-use plastic bags. Most retailers have started to stop providing single-use plastic bags to shoppers, and Lotus Malaysia is one of them. Many companies work hard to phase out the use of single-use plastic by introducing stainless steel bottles, straws, or reusable bags. As the leading technical university in Malaysia, we are committed to innovation in producing new types of bioplastics, biodegradable plastics, and sustainable materials for replacing conventional plastics, as well as new technologies for processing used plastics to reduce its environmental impact on the KL campus.” At the event, Azliza also shared that its ESG commitment is guided by its Three Benefit Principle (TBM), where its sustainability efforts should not only benefit the company but also society and the country in which it operates. In July 2021, the retailer took the initiative to stop the provision of single-use plastic bags at its checkout counters, which successfully prevented around 26 million single-use plastic bags from going into landfills and oceans. Both Lotus and MJIIT-UTM have plans to continue its partnership for NaSIC’24 to address other areas of sustainability that will benefit the environment, consumers, and students. MSU wins global accolades at the Triple E Awards SHAH ALAM: Management and Science University (MSU), one of Malaysia’s leading private universities, has been recognised globally for its outstanding sustainability and community engagement commitment. MSU has been honoured with three prestigious awards at the Triple E Awards, solidifying its position as a pioneer in higher education. The university received the coveted titles of the Green University of the Year, People’s Choice Award, and the Top 5 Engaged University of the Year. The Triple E Awards, organised by the Netherlands Accreditation Council for Entrepreneurial and Engaged Universities (ACEEU) in Barcelona, Spain, celebrate excellence in education, environment, and engagement. These awards recognise universities and institutions worldwide with exceptional dedication to sustainable practises, environmental stewardship, and community engagement initiatives. MSU’s recognition as the Global Green University of the Year highlights its unwavering commitment to sustainable practises and environmental responsibility. The university has implemented numerous innovative strategies to reduce its carbon footprint, conserve resources, and promote eco-friendly initiatives. MSU’s sustainability efforts include energy efficiency, waste management, water conservation, and green transportation. Through collaborations with local organisations and research institutions, MSU has developed impactful projects that contribute to Malaysia’s sustainable development goals. The 2023 Triple E Awards place MSU as a Top Five Engaged Global University of the Year. This accolade underscores the university’s remarkable dedication to fostering strong relationships with its local and global communities. MSU consistently demonstrates a deep sense of social responsibility through its extensive community engagement programmes. These initiatives encompass various areas, such as education, healthcare, poverty alleviation, and empowerment. MSU cultivates a culture of compassion, empathy, and active citizenship among its stakeholders by actively involving students, faculty, and staff in community service projects. In addition to that, MSU has also been voted this year’s recipient of the People’s Choice Award 2023 by the ACEEU. MSU was first recognised by MSU boasts a robust global reputation for education, the environment, and engagement. ACEEU as Asia’s Most Entrepreneurial and Engaged University in 2019. In the 2020 Asia-Pacific Triple E Awards in Kochi, India, MSU was a Finalist for Entrepreneurial University of the Year and StudentDriven Sustainability Project of the Year. MSU President Professor Tan Sri Dr Mohd Shukri Ab Yajid received the Lifetime Achievement Award in Entrepreneurship. These accolades showcase MSU’s commitment to entrepreneurship and student-led sustainability initiatives. MSU’s achievements at the Triple E Awards have further elevated its international standing as a trailblazer in higher education. The university’s comprehensive sustainability initiatives and extensive community engagement programmes have set a benchmark for universities worldwide, inspiring other institutions to follow suit.
KLCI 1,450.35 STI 3,371.17 33.75 HANG SENG 19,916.56 277.45 SCI 3,275.93 59.25 NIKKEI 32,759.23 131.93 TSEC 17,292.93 51.11 KOSPI 2,608.32 S&P/ASX200 7,403.60 4.51 MONDAY JULY 31, 2023 Editorial Tel: 03-7784 6688 Fax: 03-7785 2624/5 Email: [email protected] Advertising Tel: 03-7784 8888 Fax: 03-7784 4424 Email: [email protected] 5 MOST ACTIVES July 28, 2023 STOCK VOL CLSG (sen) +/– (sen) HONGSENG 176,395,100 7.5 -1.0 KNM 139,948,700 9.0 +0.5 AT 123,280,500 1.0 UNCH HSI-HNZ 92,010,900 13.5 -1.5 CAPITALA 79,617,200 91.0 -0.5 EXCHANGERATES JULY 28, 2023 Foreign currency Bank sell Bank buy Bank buy TT/OD TT OD 1 US DOLLAR 4.6150 4.4820 4.4570 1 AUSTRALIAN DOLLAR 3.1110 2.9890 2.9910 1 BRUNEI DOLLAR 3.4670 3.3680 3.3630 1 CANADIAN DOLLAR 3.4860 3.3940 3.3780 1 EURO 5.0750 4.9140 4.9240 1 NEW ZEALAND DOLLAR 2.8670 2.7620 2.7520 1 SINGAPORE DOLLAR 3.4670 3.3680 3.3630 1 STERLING POUND 5.9130 5.7300 5.7540 1 SWISS FRANC 5.2960 5.1750 5.1920 100 UAE DIRHAM 127.1600 120.6100 120.0100 100 BANGLADESH TAKA 4.3260 4.0600 3.8460 100 CHINESE RENMINBI 64.7900 62.0600 N/A 100 HONGKONG DOLLAR 59.7900 56.8400 56.4700 100 INDIAN RUPEE 5.7100 5.3600 5.1600 100 INDONESIAN RUPIAH 0.0318 0.0288 0.0237 100 JAPANESE YEN 3.3240 3.2190 3.1790 100 PAKISTAN RUPEE N/A N/A 1.3300 100 PHILIPPINE PESO 8.5600 8.0700 7.8700 100 QATAR RIYAL 128.1500 121.6500 121.0300 100 SAUDI RIYAL 124.4500 118.1400 117.5700 100 THAI BAHT N/A N/A 12.0800 Source: Malayan Banking Berhad/Bernama KL MARKET SUMMARY July 28, 2023 INDICES CHANGE FBMEMAS 10,652.93 -8.45 FBMKLCI 1,450.35 -0.92 CONSUMER PRODUCTS 559.11 -0.39 INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTS 167.51 +0.41 CONSTRUCTION 171.74 -0.95 FINANCIAL SERVICES 16,179.81 +14.93 ENERGY 832.70 -3.99 TELECOMMUNICATIONS 587.97 -0.90 HEALTH CARE 1,731.09 +18.63 TRANSPORTATION 915.10 -1.66 PROPERTY 767.97 -0.69 PLANTATION 7,150.11 -55.44 FBMSHA 10,905.20 -24.26 FBMACE 5,321.33 -10.21 TECHNOLOGY 63.92 -0.40 TURNOVER VALUE 3.033 BIL RM1.928 BIL 5 TOP GAINERS July 28, 2023 STOCK VOL CLSG (RM) +/– RM AJI 37,700 16.78 +0.26 MSC 4,093,200 2.42 +0.19 ALLIANZ 26,300 14.48 +0.18 PARAGON 43,200 3.00 +0.18 PETDAG 318,600 22.96 +0.18 5 TOP LOSERS July 28, 2023 STOCK VOL CLSG (RM) +/– RM HEXTECH 5,500 26.94 -0.54 MPI 177,200 29.00 -0.44 KLK 844,400 23.20 -0.30 F&N 95,400 25.00 -0.26 PERTAMA 5,299,800 2.84 -0.25 Participation 29.2 41.4 29.4 100.0 Institutions Retail Foreign Bought RM m 551.8 719.3 657.2 1928.3 Sold RM m 575.7 876.8 475.8 1928.3 Net RM m -23.9 -157.5 181.4 0 % Preliminary stats (excluding trade amendments). For final data, please refer to www.bursamalaysia.com Source: Bursa Malaysia A Participating Organisation of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad A Trading Participant of Bursa Malaysia Derivatives Berhad S E C U R I T I E S S D N. B H D. 197201001092 (12738-U) 28/7/2023 Learningtigers aims to double number of students on platform this year PETALING JAYA: Online learning platform Learningtigers Sdn Bhd aims to more than double the number of students from the current 600 to 1,500 by the end of this year, said its director, Yapp Lip Chau. “Our platform is a tech-enabled platform and the automation part of it is very important for us to be successful (as it) has to work in such a way that it is automated for the enrolment, subscription and payment stages as well as the communication between the parents and teachers, which will be managed by the platform,” he told SunBiz, saying that it plans to add on more features on its platform. The platform, which was established in September 2021 during the Covid-19 pandemic, provides online classes which █ BYGLORIA HARRY BEATTY [email protected] Taiwanese products a hit at Archidex 2023 KUALA LUMPUR: Taiwan Excellence, the internationally recognised mark of quality for Taiwanese products, made a strong showing at the Archidex 2023 event, featuring 10 corporate brands showcasing an array of green building materials, as well as innovative kitchen and bathroom products. Archidex 2023, an architecture and interior design exhibition, took place from July 26 to July 29 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre. The Taiwan Excellence Pavilion at Archidex 2023 headlined its outing this year with the theme “Green Living”. A total of 17 Taiwan-developed carbonreducing, energy-saving green building materials and intelligent living applications were showcased at the event. The Taiwan Excellence Pavilion was jointly organised by the Bureau of Foreign Trade and the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA). Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Malaysia director of the Economic Division James Chang stated that Malaysia is a key focus of Taiwan’s New Southbound Policy and Taiwan holds significant importance as a trading and investment partner for Malaysia. “This year, the Taiwan Excellence Pavilion aims to establish connections between the interior design and architectural business networks of Taiwan and Malaysia, nurturing emerging stars in the industry, while also showcasing creative ideas,” he said. Among the products on display was the From left: UTAR Architecture & Sustainable Design Department head Dr Tan Kok Hong, UTM Architecture, Faculty of Built Environment and Surveying director Associate Professor Dr Lim Yaik Wah, CIS Network president Datuk Vincent Lim, Chang, BenQ Materials senior manager Aldirich Lai and Taiwan Trade Center KL Office director Eva Peng at the event. oTaiwan Excellence makes its mark with 10 corporate brands showcasing green and innovative building materials at expo 0.92 52.30 Smart Optical Film from Taiwanese BenQ Materials Corp. According to BenQ Materials senior manager Aldirich Lai, the company has tested its products extensively in some of the toughest conditions and is standing behind its products with an industryleading five-year warranty. He added that its integrated business model covers both upstream and downstream industries and offers the company a unique perspective on the market as well as technical advantages that few firms can rival. Lai is confident that the company’s green-certified smart optical film will be a great candidate for buildings in Malaysia and the company is working to roll out more smart optical film products and solutions. He said its Smart Optical Film is a type of Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal film that can turn from opaque to transparent at the flick of a switch. The technology also allows fine tuning of the opacity level at the push of a button to suit the needs of the user. This technology is ideal for use in terms of privacy and heat rejection properties. It cuts down 99% of UV radiation to protect the occupants and properties housed within. Since the technology can be integrated into sandwiched glass panels, installation of such windows offers added benefits of soundproofing and makes the glass shatterproof. Other Taiwanese brands that were present at the event included ALASK, JUSTIME, YZTEK, FECA, San Jeou, MEDUSA, AWA, JLA and INNOLUX. cover enrichment-related subjects such as martial arts, musical instruments and languages, as well as tuition classes for primary and secondary students. “With the flexibility of our platform, we can do small classes, medium sized classes as well as one to one, based on (the needs and the budget) of the students,” Yapp said. To date, it has 242 active classes and about 150 active educators on the platform. As more students enrol, it expects to increase the number of classes and educators to accommodate the growth. Yapp said online learning is not a new trend in Malaysia and pointed out a few competitors which emerged during the pandemic. However, he said that Learningtigers’ platform is different because it offers more than the usual tuition classes. “We have various type of classes that enable parents to find a suitable one for the children, including enrichment classes and the platform provides part-time or freelance job opportunities nationwide for educators. “Every class created by the educator has to be approved by us,” he said. The company, Yapp said, is looking to expand to other countries within three years, but it depends on the business traction as well as the potential investments. He shared that it plans to launch an equity crowdfunding round in the current quarter of the year, via pitchIN. On outlook, Yapp said the education industry has room to grow as it is an “ever hot market”. He noted that startups have a “difficult” time getting funding from investors. However, he believes that startups are able to provide continued value to customers and show traction, “the growth will come and the right investment will come”.
12 theSUN ON MONDAY | JULY 31, 2023 SUNBIZ Starbucks Malaysia double winner at sustainability and CSR awards KUALA LUMPUR: Berjaya Starbucks Coffee Company (Starbucks Malaysia) bagged two prestigious awards at the Sustainability and CSR Malaysia Awards 2023, which was officiated by Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri. The first accolade, “Company of the Year (F&B Retail) – Community Engagement Award”, celebrates Starbucks Malaysia’s commitment to community-driven initiatives. This award pays tribute to the groundbreaking Starbucks Upcycled Flavorlock Pouch Project, an innovative endeavour that showcases its dedication to sustainability and responsible business practices. The Starbucks Upcycled Flavorlock Pouch Project stands as a shining example of its commitment to making a positive impact on the environment and local communities. By upcycling materials, it has not only reduced waste but also contributed to the livelihoods of marginalised communities through skill development and employment Quays receiving the ‘Personality of the Year Sustainability Leadership’ award from Nancy. oF&B chain’s commitment to communitydriven initiatives, managing director’s exceptional leadership in ESG get recognition all while inspiring its partners (employees), and customers to actively participate in the journey towards a greener, more equitable future. Starbucks Malaysia remains committed to driving positive change and creating a more sustainable and inclusive future. These awards would not have been possible without the dedication and support of the partners, customers, and stakeholders, all of whom play an integral role in their journey towards sustainability. DXN, UTAR, YPN join hands for research, promotion of TCM treatments PETALING JAYA: DXN Holdings Bhd, which is listed on the Main Market of Bursa Malaysia, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) and Yayasan Prihatin Nasional (YPN) for research and promotion of Traditional and Complementary Medicine (TCM) treatments in the healthcare industry. The framework MoU is for three years – first phase being DXN’s donation of RM3.5 million to UTAR for research and development, with more donations under way. DXN is a player in the fortified food and beverages industry. Its portfolio includes fortified food and beverages, health and dietary supplements, personal care and cosmetics and other products and services. UTAR Hospital, in addition to providing basic and specialist medical care, offers clinical training for students pursuing degrees in general medicine, traditional Chinese medicine and health science. DXN chairman and founder Datuk Lim Siow Jin said the partnership between a commercial organisation and the education sector creates a positive synergy that benefits both the industry and the academic institutions involved. “This partnership will foster greater understanding and awareness of natural products and traditional complementary medicine treatments offered by a respected institution such as UTAR,” he said during a press conference at UTAR’s campus in Bandar Sungei Long, Kajang, yesterday. UTAR president Professor Datuk Dr Ewe Hong Tat said that at the heart of the MoU lies the commitment to advancing natural product research and the partnership will provide invaluable support to UTAR Hospital in establishing medical services dedicated to TCM. “By incorporating the best of both modern medical science and Determination of market value by govt valuers worrying STAMP duty is imposed on instruments – which include any written documents such as agreements, memorandums, contracts, deeds, wills, bonds and leases – that are chargeable under the Stamp Act 1949 (the Act). The concept of stamp duty is entirely different from the other taxing legislations such as the Income Tax Act 1967 or the Real Property Gains Tax Act 1976, which are based on the taxing of income or capital gains. In determining the amount of stamp duty payable, one must refer to the First Schedule of the Act, and the stamp duty payable is specifically stated, which can range from a fixed sum of RM10, to sums that will vary with the consideration involved, the face value of the instrument, the loan amount or the market value of the property. Wherever real property is involved, market value will come into consideration in determining the stamp duty payable. The same problems arise when dealing with Real Property Gains Tax (RPGT) where the disposal price of properties in many instances will be based on the market value. Why is market value a problem? Frankly, market value should not be a problem when a transaction is undertaken between two independent third parties without any collusion. It is assumed in an open market situation, the price is determined on a “willing buyer and willing seller” basis. It is amazing that when it comes to tax matter where market value must be used, the government valuation department often has a tendency to ignore the market value which has taken place between entirely independent third parties, and impose its own price based on its internal information and other comparable information available in the marketplace. When there is a transaction between entirely unconnected third parties which are genuine, it is puzzling for taxpayers to understand why the government valuers ignore the information that is facing them and impose a much higher value. There is also a tendency by the government valuers to ignore independent professional valuers who also use accepted valuation methods. Imposing a higher market value will only mean extra taxes to the Internal Revenue Board (IRB). Reluctance to disclose why market values are ignored Taxpayers are unable to find out from the government valuation department the basis on which it has arrived at higher valuations. The department takes instructions from IRB, and it will only communicate with IRB and not taxpayers. It is fine if the government valuers do not want to talk to taxpayers since the taxpayers did not request for the valuation. However, IRB should ensure that taxpayers are given the right to see the basis of the valuation. Otherwise, imposition of the tax based on the valuation by the government valuers will be detrimental to taxpayers and the right of taxpayers to be given the opportunity to respond is ignored. Market value in independent transactions should not be ignored For all purposes of the Income Tax Act 1967 especially in the area of transfer pricing, it is clearly accepted by all tax authorities around the world that transactions between two unconnected independent third parties are regarded as arm’s length transactions and the pricing in those transactions is equivalent to market prices. The same principles must apply when it comes to valuation of property for stamp duty or RPGT purposes. Why is the government valuation department ignoring this principle? And why is IRB accepting this unfair situation? What should be done? It is high time for the Ministry of Finance to deal with this matter and define market value, and the interference from the government valuation department on genuine third-party transactions should be stopped. This article is contributed by Thannees Tax Consulting Services Sdn Bhd managing director SM Thanneermalai. opportunities. This award reinforces belief in the power of collective action and how businesses can play a pivotal role in creating a more sustainable future. This was demonstrated in Starbucks Malaysia’s collaboration with YWCA KL, which saw Starbucks Malaysia raising funds through the contribution of RM1 for every pouch purchased to the Vocational Training Opportunity Centre (VTOC) that empowers young girls and women in the B40 communities. This initiative not only reduces Starbucks Malaysia’s carbon footprint and environmental impact but also demonstrates its commitment towards sustainability and supporting underprivileged communities. The second esteemed accolade, the “Personality of the Year Sustainability Leadership Award”, celebrates the exceptional leadership of Datuk Sydney Quays, CEO of Berjaya Food Bhd and managing director of Berjaya Starbucks Coffee Company. His outstanding vision and unwavering dedication have played a crucial role in spearheading several impactful Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives within the F&B sector. As the face of Starbucks Malaysia, Quays has demonstrated extraordinary dedication in championing sustainability and responsible practices. His leadership has been instrumental in guiding the organisation towards achieving ambitious sustainability goals, traditional healing practices, we envision a holistic approach to patient care that nurtures the body, mind, and spirit,” he added. DXN posted revenue of RM424 million for the first quarter of its financial year ending Feb 29, 2024, an increase of 17.6% compared with the previous financial year’s corresponding quarter. For the quarter under review, DXN posted higher profit before tax and profit after tax and minority interest of RM124.1 million and RM77.6 million respectively, a yearon-year increase of 7.5% and 0.6%. Profit after tax clocked in at RM80.8 million. DXN directors declared a first interim dividend of 80 sen per ordinary share. - by Hayatun Razak From left: DXN special consultant to chairman Datuk Von Sip Hsien, Prihatin CEO Datuk Mohd Aizuddin Ghazali, Lim, Ewe and Associate Prof Dr Te Kian Keong at the ceremony. – SYAZWAN KAMAL/THE SUN
13 * SUNBIZ theSUN ON MONDAY | JULY 31, 2023 /thesuntelegram FOLLOW ON TELEGRAM SCAN ME FOR the trading week ended July 28, overall turnover in the warrants market saw a surge of 88.8% to RM304.5 million from RM161.3 million in the previous week. This was due to reduced trading activity in the previous week as the Hong Kong Exchange and Bursa Malaysia were closed for one day each. Hang Seng Index (HSI) warrants remained the primary focus throughout the week just ended, dominating turnover with a substantial contribution of RM225 million, accounting for 73.4% of the total, while warrants over Malaysian stocks made up 23.6%. HSI futures had a strong week, with three out of five days ending in positive territory. The HSI kickstarted the week with a 2% drop on Monday but rallied 4.3% on Tuesday as Beijing pledged measures to bolster China’s economy. HSI futures subsequently retreated 0.6% on Wednesday before surging from Thursday through Friday to end the week at 19,964. The moves saw HSI warrants HSICO3, HSI-HNZ and HSI-CO2 occupying the top three spots in the most active list, recording volumes of 336 million, 212.7 million and 163.7 million units, respectively. Call warrant HSI-CO3 was also the top warrant by value traded logging up to RM59 million. Meanwhile, HSI-HN3 and HSI-HK9 registered 123.1 million and 102.5 million units traded. On the domestic front, warrants over Malaysian stocks that garnered trading interest were once again those over the property names such as Malaysian Resources Corporation (MRCB) and UEM Sunrise (UEMS). For the week, MRCB-C88 and MRCBC87 saw 45.9 million and 34 million units traded respectively as the underlying ended a volatile week with a 2.5% decline following the 17.9% rally in the previous week. Call warrant UEMS-C82 was also popular among investors as it recorded up to 24.1 million units traded. To view the full list of structured warrants available on Bursa Malaysia, visit malaysiawarrants.com.my. Provided for Malaysian residents’ information only. This commentary has not been reviewed by the Securities Commission Malaysia. It is not an offer or recommendation to trade and is not research material. Past performance is not indicative of future performance. You should make your own assessment and seek professional advice. The warrants will not be offered to any US persons. Top stock warrants by volume traded: Warrant Volume Issuer Exercise Expiry date name (mil) level HSI-CO3 336.0 Macquarie 21,200 29 Sep 2023 HSI-HNZ 212.7 Macquarie 18,600 30 Aug 2023 HSI-CO2 163.7 Macquarie 21,800 30 Oct 2023 HSI-HN3 123.1 Macquarie 17,600 30 Aug 2023 HSI-HK9 102.5 Macquarie 18,800 28 Jul 2023 WARRANTS WATCH Issues over MRCB, UEM Sunrise and HSI take centre stage ‘NETR complements National Energy Policy’ KUALA LUMPUR: The National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR) is seen as complementary to the National Energy Policy and could expedite Malaysia’s aspiration towards Net Carbon Zero Emission by 2050. Malaysia Petroleum Resources Corporation (MPRC) president and CEO Mohd Yazid Ja’afar said discipline is needed to execute the needed processes and make the commitment to the roadmap a success. “At the end of the day, it depends on the execution. If we stick to our execution plan, we can be as good as our neighbours. We would be (even better). “Something has to change. In terms of discipline, it is always there. That is maybe a common theme to make sure what we plan, we follow up, and we adjust accordingly,” he told Bernama in a recent interview. On Thursday, Malaysia unveiled phase one of the NETR, which detailed 10 flagship catalyst projects and initiatives that could open up energy transition investment opportunities between RM435 oMalaysia Petroleum Resources Corp CEO says discipline needed to execute processes and make transition roadmap a success Bina Puri unit wins RM72.8m deal for PWD project in Sarawak PETALING JAYA: Bina Puri Holdings Bhd’s 49%-owned joint venture company, Chun Yang Bina Puri (JV) Sdn Bhd, has been awarded a contract by Tokoh Ilham Sdn Bhd for a project under Malaysia’s Public Works Department. The contract, which has a value of RM72.85 million, involves subcontract works in Jalan Kampung Medong/Lebrasau/Kampung Klid, Daerah Dalat in Mukah, Sarawak. The contract is for 24 months and work is expected to be completed by the third quarter of 2025. Bina Puri expects it to contribute positively to group earnings and net assets in the financial year ending June 30, 2024, and onwards. Bina Puri group executive director Datuk Matthew Tee (pic) said that as an established construction player, Bina Puri has been at the forefront of delivering successful projects across Malaysia, including, for instance, the iconic Sarawak State Legislative Assembly building in Kuching. He added that this contract reaffirms Bina Puri’s track record of excellence in the construction industry, as well as their commitment to delivering high-quality results in every project. “As we continue to demonstrate our credibility and expertise across a wide range of critical projects, Bina Puri is well-positioned for growth in the construction segment. We thank Tokoh Ilham for their trust and are confident that our expertise within the infrastructure sector makes us the ideal partner for this project,” said Tee. Moving forward, Bina Puri continues to build a strong recurring income base through a mix of international and local projects. Among its key projects are Puri Residences, a 21.41-acre landed residential development in Masai, Johor, with 384 units of double-storey homes and an estimated gross development value (GDV) of RM217 million. Bina Puri is also involved in The Valley @ Bentong, Pahang, an agriculture-based development comprising farms and homes. Built on 1,600 acres or the equivalent of 1,200 football fields, The Valley commands an estimated GDV of RM383 million. The group currently has an order book of RM1.5 billion for its construction and property segment. billion and RM1.85 trillion by 2050. For phase one of NETR, the total committed investments were RM25 billion, estimated to create 23,000 high-impact, high-quality jobs and reduce 10,000 gigagrams of carbon dioxide equivalent annually. The six key energy transition levers are energy efficiency, renewable energy, hydrogen, bioenergy, green mobility, and carbon capture, utilisation, and storage (CCUS). Phase two of NETR is expected to be launched in a month and will focus on establishing the low carbon pathway, national energy mix, and emission reduction targets, as well as the enablers needed Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli said the NETR is not only a document that contains interim measures to meet the country’s netzero target but “a combination of strategies and initiatives that could transform our economy, livelihoods, and our place in the world”. Just two months ago, the Ministry of Economy and the Ministry of Natural Resources, Environment, and Climate Change made a few pivotal policy decisions that went under the radar. Both ministries lifted the export ban on renewable energy (RE) to increase the potential yield that could be obtained by companies that participate in the transition process. They also announced the establishment of a central electricity exchange that would be operated by a single-market aggregator to ensure prices are fair and transparent. To double down on its commitment, the government stretched its installed capacity targets by nearly two times, to 70% by 2050 from 40%. The newly launched NETR also would allow the government to focus on allowing more large-scale integrated urban housing developments to include solar rooftops in their pricing packages to enable property players to look into energy storage solutions. Rafizi said the government will work with Sime Darby Property Bhd as solar rooftop projects can only be pulled off commercially in largescale housing projects without government funding. – Bernama Auro turns around, aided by sand business PETALING JAYA: Auro Holdings Bhd, formerly known as NWP Holdings Bhd, has demonstrated resilience with the group not only showcasing 143% revenue growth from the previous year but also marked a significant financial turnaround, posting a net profit for its first quarter ended May 31, 2023 (Q1’23). This is in sharp contrast to the net loss of RM2.75 million it registered in the same period last year. Executive director Tan Jyy Yeen said: “Our impressive financial results mirror our team’s commitment and the strategic decisions we have undertaken. The turnaround in our financial performance was mainly attributed to our newly commenced sand business.” The venture into the sand business has helped in the turnaround of the group as it allows Auro to generate additional revenue and earnings. By March this year, the group has started its operations in the sand business. With an eye on the horizon, the group underwent a transformation, rebranding from NWP Holdings to Auro Holdings. “Auro is not merely a new name; it embodies our renewed vision and direction for the future. As Auro Holdings charts its course forward, it remains laser-focused on strengthening and expanding its business,” Tan said. She added that the group will continue to explore opportunities to grow its business, including mergers and acquisitions. Auro chairman Datuk Tan Lik Houe said it is exploring strategic mergers and acquisitions to diversify revenue sources and tap into new opportunities. JAG makes strong strides in total waste management SHAH ALAM: JAG Bhd, a total waste management company, is poised for sustained growth in 2023 and beyond, after cementing new contracts under its Total Waste Management (TWM) business. This milestone comes following the group’s commitment to grow and strengthen its TWM business, which remains the major contributor to its revenue and profit. Earlier this week, JAG announced a new contract with a value of about RM150 million covering three years. Under this contract, the group will provide total waste management services, managing all types of waste or by-products generated from production activities, including scheduled waste (such as electrical and electronic waste, process-related waste and maintenance-related waste), nonscheduled waste and critical scrap. The announcement earlier this week follows JAG’s appointment as a services partner of Atreon Holdings Sdn Bhd in June for its spent catalyst processing and treatment. The minimum total value of this three-year contract is RM27.6 million. Spent catalyst is a waste material produced from the cracking of petroleum in oil refineries.
14 theSUN ON MONDAY | JULY 31, 2023 SUNBIZ @thesundaily FOLLOW ON TWITTER SCAN ME Joining Belt and Road was atrocious decision: Italy minister ROME: Italy made an “improvised and atrocious” decision when it joined China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) four years ago as it did little to boost exports, Italian Defence Minister Guido Crosetto said in an interview published yesterday. Italy signed up to the BRI under a previous government, becoming the only major Western country to have taken such a step. Crosetto is part of an administration that is considering how to break free of the agreement. The BRI scheme envisions rebuilding the old Silk Road to connect China with Asia, Europe and beyond with large infrastructure spending. Critics see it as a tool for China to spread its geopolitical and economic influence. “The decision to join the (new) Silk Road was an improvised and atrocious act” that multiplied China’s exports to Italy but did not have the same effect on Italian exports to China, Crosetto told the Corriere della Sera newspaper. “The issue today is: how to walk back (from the BRI) without damaging relations (with Beijing). Because it is true that China is a competitor, but it is also a partner,” the defence minister added. After a White House meeting US President Joe Biden on Thursday, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said her government had until December to make a decision on the BRI, and also announced she would soon travel to Beijing. In an interview on Saturday with the TG5 Italian news programme, Meloni said it was a “paradox” that even if Italy is part of the BRI, it is not the G7 country with the strongest trading links to China. “This shows that you can have good relations and trading partnerships” even outside of the BRI, she added. – Reuters France: We want better market access, not decoupling BEIJING: France wants better access to the Chinese market and a more “balanced” trade relationship, not a “decoupling” from the world’s second-biggest economy, Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire said yesterday after meeting top Chinese officials. “We don’t want to face some legislative hurdles or some other barriers to get access to the Chinese markets,” Le Maire told a press conference in Beijing a day after what he called “constructive” trade talks with Vice Premier He Lifeng. “This of course was at the core of our discussions,” he said. “We want to get a better access and a more balanced access to the Chinese market.” At Saturday’s meeting, He said China hoped France could “stabilise the tone” of European Union-China relations, while Beijing was willing to deepen cooperation with Paris in some areas. European officials have oFinance minister says Paris seeks more balanced trade ties with Beijing repeatedly said they wanted not to decouple from China but to “derisk” in the face of what the Group of Seven calls China’s “economic coercion”. “We are totally opposed to the idea of decoupling. Decoupling is an illusion,” Le Maire told reporters at the French embassy. “There is no possibility of having any kind of decoupling between the American, European and Chinese economies. “Derisking does not mean that China is a risk,” Le Maire said. “Derisking means that we want to be more independent and that we don’t want to face any risk in our supply chains if there would be a new crisis, like the Covid one with Sunak backs plans for new UK oil and gas exploration LONDON: UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has backed plans for new fossil fuel drilling off Britain’s coast, saying in a newspaper interview yesterday he would be “pragmatic and proportionate” about reaching net zero. His government is expected to approve the development of Rosebank, near Scotland’s Shetland Isles – believed to be the UK’s largest undeveloped oil and gas field -- as well as other sites in the nearby North Sea imminently. The prospect has infuriated environmental campaigners, who argue that stopping all new fossil fuel exploitation is essential if Britain is to decarbonise by mid-century. They accuse the British leader of lacking conviction on climate policies and playing politics with the issue, as he eyes a general election due next year amid a cost-of-living crisis. The main opposition Labour party, well ahead in the polls, said earlier this year it will not issue any new North Sea drilling licences if it regains power after more than a decade in opposition. “I think it makes absolutely no sense, as the Labour Party is suggesting, to ban North Sea oil and gas,” Sunak told the Sunday Telegraph. “That is just going to weaken our energy security and strengthen the hands of dictators like (Russian) President (Vladimir) Putin,” he said, arguing it jeopardised 200,000 jobs and threatened £80 billion (RM466.7 billion) worth of tax revenue. Sunak, who became leader last October, said his approach was “to support the UK’s energy industry” and appeared to suggest that not exploiting new UK oil and gas reserves risked “the lights going out” in Britain. “Everybody sensible recognises that we will need those fossil fuels as part of the transition to net zero,” he argued. The comments follow the Conservatives defying dismal national polling to retain former prime minister Boris Johnson’s vacated northwest London seat in a July 20 parliamentary by-election. The narrow victory came amid voter unease at Labour mayor Sadiq Khan expanding a scheme taxing the use of the most polluting vehicles, and appears to have emboldened Tory net zero opponents. In the Telegraph interview, Sunak insisted he was on the side of motorists and said he had ordered a review of so-called low traffic neighbourhoods, contentious local authority-led tools to limit vehicle use in designated areas by blocking roads. His government has riled climate campaigners since the surprise byelection win by suggesting some UK environmental targets could be eased, while offering lukewarm support for the country’s ambitious net zero agenda. Swedish climate campaigner Greta Thunberg on Friday called the UK government “out of touch from reality” after energy minister Grant Shapps said it would look to “max out” North Sea reserves. Sunak, who has been criticised for his frequent use of helicopters and planes to travel around Britain, insisted he wants to “leave the environment and our climate in a better state”. “But I’m going to do that in a way that is pragmatic and proportionate, and not unnecessarily add costs or hassle to people’s lives,” he added, noting the current grim economic reality many face. – AFP the total breakdown of some of the value chains.” China is France’s third-largest trade partner, but French firms are increasingly concerned they could get caught in the crossfire of rising rivalry between Washington and Beijing, the world’s economic superpowers. Asked about fears among some European automakers that cheap Chinese electric vehicles (EV) could flood European markets, Le Maire said France had its own plan, which it was working with Europe on, to better focus France’s and Europe’s EV subsidies to increase competitiveness. “We stand ready to have Chinese investments of the automotive industry in France and in Europe,” he said, adding it would be “a very good thing” to have the Chinese companies investing and developing in Europe. Le Maire said France was on the right track, paving the way to better access to the Chinese market for French cosmetics. His remarks come as some Western countries seek to reduce their economic dependence on China, particularly Germany, which counts the Asian country as its top trading partner and an important market for its automotive industry. The United States has also advocated derisking from China, though US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said during a visit to Beijing earlier this month that a decoupling of the US and Chinese economies would be “virtually impossible”. China, meanwhile, has lashed out at Western efforts to derisk, with Premier Li Qiang last month calling the concept a “false proposition”. Le Maire is in China for highlevel economic talks, and will travel today to the southern tech hub of Shenzhen to meet with business leaders. – Reuters, AFP Philippines to boost rice supply, may look to India MANILA: Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr said on Saturday the country must boost its rice stocks and that he may seek a supply deal with India, worried about the potential impact of El Nino dry weather on the local harvest and about other suppliers. “I’m thinking about the national supply for rice,” Marcos told officials in the northern province of Cagayan, where he went to assess the damage from Typhoon Doksuri. Marcos, who is also agriculture secretary, expressed concern about the global supply situation. “Everybody is preparing for El Nino, all of Southeast Asia.” The Philippines, one of the world’s biggest rice importers, traditionally buys the staple grain mainly from its neighbour Vietnam. But Marcos said supply from Vietnam might become limited as other buyers crowd in. “I think we can make a deal with India. Maybe there’s someone there we can talk to,” Marcos said. A spokesman for India’s food ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment. India last week banned exports of non-basmati white rice – its largest rice export category – to ease domestic prices that climbed after rains caused significant crop damage. New Delhi left open the door for government-to-government deals, saying it would consider meeting the requirements of countries in need of rice. The ban is expected to halve shipments from the world’s largest exporter of the grain. After the decision, prices of rice exported from Vietnam and Thailand soared to their highest in more than a decade. India accounts for more than 40% of world rice exports, and low inventories with other exporters mean a cut in shipments could inflate food prices already driven up by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine last year and erratic weather. – Reuters Le Maire (left) and He attending the 9th China-France High Level Economic and Financial Dialogue in Beijing on Saturday. – AFPPIC
3 1 J U L Y 2 0 2 3 M O N D A Y SHARK Awareness Day is technically on July 14 every year, but the entire month of July is a much longer period to raise awareness about the (perceived) dangers from and faced by sharks. It’s also a great opportunity to learn about sharks. In the marine biome, various species of sharks form the bulk of the apex predators in the ocean. Other apex predators include certain whales, giant squids, saltwater crocodiles, and and orcas (killer whales), which are technically dolphins. In the ocean, as apex predators, sharks only face danger from these other apex predators; everything living out there is under them, existing as food for these interesting predators. Unfortunately, the real threats against sharks come from out of the ocean, which is why Shark Awareness Day was “created”. Perpetual decline Globally, the number of sharks is rapidly dwindling. In a study published early in 2021, it was reported that oceanic sharks (and rays) have dipped more than 70% since 1970. Were these sharks getting jumped by killer whale pods? Or are these numbers due to some monster movie-type underwater battle between sharks and giant squids? No. These numbers were due to humans. Overfishing and unintentional catches contributed huge numbers to the decline. Sharks are taken for their meat, fins, and liver oil. When fishermen use nets and long lines with thousands of baited hooks to attract tuna or swordfish, sharks are sometimes caught. Instead of releasing them, these catches are welcomed. They’re considered a “bonus”, primarily due to their fins. RM400 and more In recent years, or the last decade, there has been an active call to end the absurd practise of “shark finning”, where sharks are caught, their fins are hacked off, and the sharks are then thrown back into the ocean to drown. Imagine if someone kidnaps you, chops off your limbs, and throws you into the ocean. Good luck trying to swim, Stumpy. The harvested fins are then distributed to China, Hong Kong, and Chinese communities elsewhere to be used in shark fin soup, a bland and overpriced dish. Dating back over 1,000 years, this culturally traditional dish was only consumed by the Chinese aristocracy with the means to acquire it. In classic human overcompensation, this dish continues to be used as an arbitrary measure of social standing and class by certain people in those communities. Due to the explosion in the Asian economy, suddenly everyone can afford these fins, and at important functions like weddings, corporate events, and banquets, it’s still common practise to be served the tasteless dish because, in modern lingo, it’s considered a financial “flex”. Tangentially, the high price the fins fetch on land motivates fishermen at sea to hunt more. It’s estimated that almost 73 million sharks in the ocean are killed each year to satisfy egos on the mainland. The law of diminishing returns Shark finning is not the only culprit. Everything from pollution to reef tourism to climate change is either driving shark populations down or slowing any rebound from happening, especially due to how sharks reproduce in such small numbers that the loss of life can’t be covered by the next reproductive cycle. The apathy of people towards the survival of sharks could be attributed to fear (thanks, Jaws) and the fact that most would live their entire lives without seeing a shark in real life. The reality is that most sharks aren’t the bloodthirsty creatures Steven Spielberg depicted in his film. So much so that shark diving is a multimilliondollar, growing industry. But there is a clear and present danger if their diminishing existence is pushed into complete extinction. As apex predators, sharks maintain ecological balance and order in the ocean. Take them out, and entire ecosystems will collapse. Due to a growing outcry over the need for shark conservation, there is a clear dip in the demand for shark fin soup, for example, by the younger generation of people, but, like mentioned, there are various aspects that are leading the downward spiral of shark numbers. – BY MARK MATHEN VICTOR Shark lives matter Aquaria KLCC recently relaunched its “Sleep with Sharks” educational programme. THE heart-thumping sound of a Chinese drum, followed by the rythmic beats of the traditional Malay musical instrument kompang, uplifted the audience right at the opening of Sakti, which premiered on July 14. The coordinated beats from various drums and the sound of music from different musical instruments, as well as the sound of drumsticks hitting on the stage platform, were a sensory delight. The story Sakti is based on the classic Malay folklore Ulek Mayang. A visual treat for the senses In the opening scene, Roma, played by Jack Wan, is a fisherman who rides a boat and catches fish despite facing rough waves, and upon his return to the village, a celebration or sort of festival takes place to welcome him. Roma returns to the sea and suddenly falls in due to rough weather and washes up on the shore, unconscious. A bomoh (shaman), played by Jimmy Ch’ng, tries to wake him up but fails. In the next scene, a striking display of colourful lights erupts before six princesses glide onto the stage. They look beautiful in crowns on their heads with slender-fitting clothes of beautiful colours and designs. The princesses demonstrate phenomenal talent in their artistic skills when performing on aerial cubes and hoops while suspended in the air, providing a visually stunning performance. When the enchanting seventh princess, Puteri Bongsu (Emily Ong Sze Sze), enters the scene, Roma wakes up cured, and they fall for each other. The act that involves Roma and Puteri Bongsu falling in love entrances the audience in a graceful dance of passion and chemistry, while aerial artists continue captivating the audience with their gravity-defying skills. The rest of the musical portrayed more visually captivating and impressive performances on suspended wire, as well as a “white dragon” whose sleek and skillful movements had the audiences bewitched. Described as “drumming theatre,“ Sakti, being a reimagining of Ulek Mayang, provides a different perspective on the old Terengganu folk tale with cross-cultural and contemporary elements. The breath-taking aerial performances by Viva Circus, synchronised dance steps, reverential kompang performances, the sound of Chinese drums, colourful lighting, and background music drew thunderous applause and cheers from the audience. Every act and scene were presented very creatively, imaginatively, and beautifully. The story, which is based on Malay folklore, is embedded with Chinese cultural elements like the white dragon and Chinese drums, and the characters range from traditional Malay characters like Penghulu and Puteri to futuristic characters. What sets Sakti apart from being called drumming theatre is the fact that there are absolutely no spoken dialogues in the whole production. Because of this, some viewers may struggle to fully grasp the storyline, but what it does is encourage the audience to fully immerse themselves in the sensory delivery in order to come to their own conclusions. Produced and presented by Hands Percussion, the production went on for three days starting July 14 at the Petaling Jaya Performing Arts Centre (PjPAC) at One Utama Shopping Centre. Sakti: A visual treat oAerial artistry and drumming performances hold audience spellbound Mesmerising displays of colours. The beat of love. █ BYS. TAMARAI CHELVI There is no need for words. Gravity-defying acts. – PICS BY JOGRAPHY STUDIO
16 ENTERTAINMENT theSun LYFE ON MONDAY | JULY 31, 2023 ZURIN Villanueva, the talented star of the national tour of Tina: The Tina Turner Musical, found herself dealing with intense emotions when news of the music icon’s passing shook the world. In a poignant moment during a performance, when news of Turner’s passing reached her, Villanueva was overwhelmed with grief, reflecting the raw impact of the loss. “I was a wreck,” she confesses, revealing how the heartbreak hit her unexpectedly. “I thought I was okay. I felt like we grieved last week, so I was fine. But then Mama dies, and I’m like, ‘I’m not fine.’ And right after she dies, I start singing We Don’t Need Another Hero. So I’m crying, and it’s like you have to either sing through it or let it impede you. I was like, ‘No, relax. There can be snot everywhere, but you can still sing.’” However, despite the emotional challenges, Villanueva continues to dazzle audiences with her remarkable performances, breathing life into Turner’s timeless classics night after night. The gruelling schedule demands her presence on stage for nearly three hours of non-stop singing, dancing, and acting. On her off nights, the talented Naomi Rodgers steps into the role of the irreplaceable Tina. For Villanueva, this demanding theatrical experience is a unique journey that requires staying focused and present throughout. “You have to take your breaths while you’re on stage,” she explains, hinting at the transcendent power of live performances that keep the mind entirely engaged. Beyond the limelight, Villanueva’s ambition extends to writing. But instead of penning scripts, she has a fascinating project in the works: a book delving into the untold secrets, rules, and traditions of Broadway. The book, as she describes it, is a heartfelt guide she’d want to share with her little sister before embarking on her own Broadway journey. In the spotlight and behind the scenes, Zurin Villanueva’s journey is one of emotions, igniting passion, tragedy, and triumph on the grand stage of life. Embracing emotions oLead actress grapples with the passing of Tina Turner onstage █ BYTHASHINE SELVAKUMARAN Dwayne Johnson makes a historic donation kept confidential, Wilson claimed it was a seven-figure donation. Through Johnson’s donation, Wilson estimated that between 7,000 and 10,000 members will need the SAG-AFTRA Foundation’s grant services. These grants can see up to US$1,500 (RM6,852) delivered per individual member. In extreme conditions, such as health issues or situations where an actor is in serious jeopardy, lifetime members can receive up to US$6,000 (RM27,411) in emergency financial assistance. “Everyone knows what happens when you go on strike, when you stand for something – as the saying goes, if you don’t stand for something, you’ll fall for everything – you can’t stand unless you have support underneath you, on the side, up top, and up front,” Vance said. So Dwayne is letting everyone know, ‘I’m here. What are you going to do?’ The actor hands over a seven-figure check to Vance. – VARIETY █ BY MARK MATHEN VICTOR Tom Brady dating Irina Shayk? RUMOURS are rife that former National Football League (NFL) star Tom Brady is dating Russian-born model Irina Shayk after a “sleepover” at his Los Angeles house recently. Over the weekend, Tom is said to have picked her up from a hotel, gone home, and dropped her back at the hotel the next day. At some point, Tom was caught on video caressing Irina’s face inside a car. Tom was married to supermodel Gisele Bundchen in October 2022, and after 16 years of marriage, they share two children, Benjamin, 13, and Vivian, 10. Irina was formerly attached to actor Bradley Cooper, and they both share parental duties over their six-year-old daughter, Lea. The model also dated football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo from 2009 to 2015 and lost 11 million Instagram followers 24 hours after breaking up with the footballer. Irina modelled for Alaia on July 2. – INSTAGRAM █ BYS. TAMARAI CHELVI Issa’s journey to embracing the Barbie role ISSA Rae, the versatile 38-year-old actress, recently shared her transformative body positivity journey during the filming of the highly anticipated Barbie movie. Talking exclusively to Glamour, Rae candidly discussed her initial concerns about not fitting the traditional “Barbie shape” when cast as “President Barbie.” After completing projects like Insecure and Rap Sh!t, Rae intended to take a break and indulge in her favourite foods. But destiny intervened, and the opportunity to play President Barbie pushed her to doubt her readiness for the role. However, everything changed when she stepped into the visionary world crafted by director Greta Gerwig. Contrary to preconceived notions, Gerwig’s Barbie universe celebrated diversity in all its forms. The inclusive paradise of Barbie Land comforted Rae on her ongoing fitness journey, making her feel less insecure about her body. A heartfelt conversation with Gerwig revealed her commitment to casting a diverse ensemble of actors, prioritising authenticity over stereotypes. On the set, Barbies of various shapes, sizes, abilities, ages, and genders united, weaving a tapestry of perfection. It shattered the confines of “perfection” and embraced the uniqueness of every individual. Witnessing such an empowering and inclusive environment deeply moved Rae. Barbie Land became a place where people saw themselves represented in extraordinary ways. Gerwig’s vision questioned and dismantled long-standing beauty standards. Barbie Land’s revolutionary approach was a beacon of hope for a world longing for acceptance and unity. It taught Rae to appreciate her own uniqueness and reminded her that everyone deserves representation and celebration. “Barbie Land is perfect,“ Rae expressed. The movie’s radical messages are poised to become a c i n e m a t i c landmark – an invitation to embrace the beauty of our diverse world, w h e r e everyone is perfect in their own way. Gerwig’s vision was a revolution that questioned and dismantled longstanding beauty standards. – PEOPLE █ BYTHASHINE SELVAKUMARAN AS a non-profit organisation associated with the union, but not part of it, the SAG-AFTRA Foundation functions by providing financial relief to the union’s 160,000-strong members. This is done through the foundation’s Emergency Financial Assistance Programme. SAG-AFTRA Foundation executive director Cyd Wilson explained that the foundation relies on donations and grants to provide services. In a crisis like the ongoing Hollywood strike that has affected everyone and every project in the industry, Wilson explained that millions will be spent on financial assistance for union members. “This is when we need highprofile talent—those who can afford it and are in a situation to help others.” Shortly after sending the letter, Dwayne Johnson’s team reached out to say he wanted to help, so he and SAG-AFTRA Foundation president Courtney B. Vance hopped on a phone call. After the call, the A-list star is said to have made a “historic donation”. Though the exact number is being Villanueva plays the legend Tina Turner. –IMDB
17 ENTERTAINMENT theSun LYFE ON MONDAY | JULY 31, 2023 Iran bans film festival over hijab-less actress IRANIAN authorities have banned a film festival that put out a publicity poster featuring an actress who was not wearing a hijab headscarf, state media reported. The ban comes after the Iranian Short Film Association (ISFA) released a poster for its upcoming Short Film Festival featuring Iranian actress Susan Taslimi in the 1982 film The Death of Yazdguerd. “The culture minister has personally issued an order to ban the 13th edition of the ISFA Film Festival after using a photo of a woman without a hijab on its poster in violation of the law,” state news agency IRNA reported last week. The festival was scheduled to be held in September. Wearing a hijab and covering the head and neck has been compulsory for women in Iran since 1983, shortly after the 1979 Islamic revolution. However, Iranian women have increasingly flouted the strict dress code since mass protests began last September, calling for an end to compulsory hijab. The months-long protests were triggered by the death of 22-yearold Iranian Kurd Mahsa Amini, who had been arrested by the morality police for allegedly breaching the strict Islamic dress code. Earlier this month, police said patrols had been relaunched to catch the increasing number of women ignoring the law. The judiciary’s Mizan Online website said late Saturday that legal measures were being taken against Digikala, a major ecommerce company, over images of female employees not wearing the head covering. Two weeks ago, a Tehran court handed prominent actress Afsaneh Bayegan a suspended two-year prison sentence for failing to wear the hijab at a public event. It also ordered Bayegan to make weekly visits to a psychological centre “to treat the mental disorder of having an anti-family personality” and to submit a health certificate after her treatment, the Fars news agency reported. – AFP The ISFA poster featuring Taslimi. – INSTAGRAM A role of a lifetime I RISH actor Cillian Murphy, who plays the lead character, J. Robert Oppenheimer, in Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer, which opened on July 20, talks about his experience and why viewers should experience it at the cinema. Oppenheimer is a movie about a theoretical physicist who led a team to invent the devastating atom bombs that were dropped by the American army on Hiroshima and Nagasaki on Sept 6 and 9, 1945, respectively, killing 226,000 Japanese people and ending World War II. United International Pictures recently interviewed 47-year-old Cillian about his blockbuster role. Q: What has it meant for you to portray the lead character of J. Robert Oppenheimer in Christopher Nolan’s new movie, surrounded by such an extraordinary cast? It’s a dream, really. I never imagined working with all these actors on one movie. I think it’s one of the greatest modern ensembles that Christopher Nolan has put together. But that just shows you how everybody wants to work with Chris. These actors will turn up because they love his movies and his writing. He’s an incredible oCillian Murphy shares his experience starring in Oppenheimer █ BY S. TAMARAI CHELVI Visualising the next scene. On location. Q: What did you think of the film when you saw it completed? Well, with Chris, there is no video, no monitors, or anything like that. Obviously, these are film cameras; so, you don’t see any playback. The first frame of the movie that I saw was the first trailer. And then, when I finally got to see the finished film, it was completely overwhelming. But, because there had been a gap between wrapping the movie and watching it, I suppose I had some distance. I hate looking at myself, and I don’t really know any actor that enjoys the experience, but I found I was completely blown away by Oppenheimer. It’s a truly essential, cinematic, and immersive experience, particularly in IMAX. And I felt that. I would like to watch it maybe once more with an audience. Q: Why do you think it is so important for audiences to e x p e r i e n c e Oppenheimer in cinemas? For me, it’s the best way t o experience a film – in a d a r k e n e d space with strangers. There’s just no interruption: you’re not going to answer the door or make a cup of tea. You’re invested, you paid your money, you’ve got your snacks, and you’re there. There’s something hugely romantic about it to me, and there always will be. Also, I think what’s extra special about this movie is that it’s talking about the world. It’s really digging up what it means to be human, and our responsibility as humans on this planet, and what we do with the power that we can harness, which in this case is this extraordinary destructive and appalling weapon. I think it was Truffaut who said that we go to films not only to escape ffrom life but also to learn about life. And I believe Oppenheimer is one of those great movies that is incredibly entertaining, but also makes you think. Q: Why do you think Oppenheimer’s story resonates and connects with us all? Yes, there’s a universality to it that people connect to. People understand the themes that are in this movie. There are big questions being asked of the audience, and no answers being given, which I think is always excellent filmmaking. But it’s also a thriller and a love story, and to me, there are elements of horror in there as well. So, all that just resonates with an audience. And I think the period setting, however familiar or unfamiliar you may be with what happened in 1945, will wrap you up in it too. This movie grabs you by the throat from the beginning, and you just don’t take a breath from start to finish. We are now living in a nuclear age because of what happened then. I mean, Oppenheimer changed the world, and we have been living with the fallout of that event ever since. director! So, yes, it was a gift for me every day. Also, when you wake up knowing you are doing a scene with Matt Damon, Kenneth Branagh, Emily Blunt, or Gary Oldman, it’s just kind of electrifying. So, you have to turn up the volume on your own performance a little bit. Cillian delivers stunning performance as J. Robert Oppenheimer. – PICS AND INTERVIEW BY UNITED INTERNATIONAL PICTURES
18 LIFESTYLE theSun LYFE ON MONDAY | JULY 31, 2023 Epic anime GET ready for an otherworldly anime extravaganza as Disney+ Hotstar unveils the muchawaited cast for the mesmerising new series Phoenix: Eden17. This phenomenal adaptation of Osamu Tezuka’s legendary masterpiece, Phoenix: Nostalgia, is set to ignite the screens worldwide on Sept 13, exclusively on Disney+. Prepare to embark on a cosmic odyssey alongside Romi and her trusty companion George, brilliantly voiced by the talented Rie Miyazawa (known for her roles in The Moon and The 13 Lords of the Shogun) and Yosuke Kubozuka (famous for his performances in Sin Clock and Long Love Letter). Together, they flee from a desolate Earth, seeking refuge on the promising planet of Eden17. However, their dreams of a utopian haven quickly shatter as they encounter a barren wasteland incapable of sustaining human life. In a desperate struggle for survival, Romi reluctantly enters a malfunctioning hibernation pod, awakening a staggering 1,300 years later. To her astonishment, she finds herself in a metropolis built by the descendants of her son, Cain. Although revered as a queen by the inhabitants of Eden17, Romi feels a profound sense of loneliness, compelling her to set her sights on returning to Earth in search of solace among the stars. Joining this stellar cast are Honoka Yoshida (known for her role in Dai Byoin Senkyo) as Com and Issey Oagata (renowned for his appearances in Picu and Ishiko and Haneo: You’re Suing Me?) as Zudarban, a charismatic space merchant. With visionary director Shojiro Nishimi at the helm (well known for Disney+ Hotstar unveils a stellar cast for the highly anticipated anime series Phoenix: Eden17. – PICS BY DISNEY+ oBeloved manga transcends pages █ BYTHASHINE SELVAKUMARAN Renowned voice actors take the stage to bring their talent to Phoenix: Eden17 his works on Tekkonkinkreet and Mutafukaz), and brought to life by the creative prowess of STUDIO4 , featuring stunning character design by chief animation director Tatsuzou Nishita, and awe-inspiring art direction by Shinji Kimura, this anime sensation is set to be an audiovisual feast. Enchanting melodies composed by the esteemed Takatsugu Muramatsu will further elevate the immersive experience. Mark your calendars for Sept 13, as Phoenix: Eden17 sets off on an extraordinary adventure, streaming exclusively on Disney+. Get ready to witness the captivating fusion of art, storytelling, and imagination that will transport you to the far reaches of the cosmos. Mick Jagger turns 80 MICK JAGGER once sang, “What a drag it is getting old,“ but the most senior swinger in town shows little sign of slowing down as he turned 80 last Wednesday. The Rolling Stones frontman is still strutting and gyrating in front of packed-out arenas, most recently touring Europe to mark the band’s 60th anniversary. The icon of 60s counterculture underwent a heart valve replacement in 2019, but his regime of running, kickboxing, cycling, and yoga has maintained his svelte figure and longevity as an energetic showman. The band completed its 14-date Sixty tour last year, although they had to cancel one date when Jagger caught Covid. It was the first time the band had performed without drummer Charlie Watts, who died in 2021. The remaining members plan to release a new album in tribute to their late drummer later this year, the first LP of original material since A Bigger Bang in 2005. It will reportedly feature Beatles legend Paul McCartney and former Stones bassist Bill Wyman, 86, more than 30 years after his departure from the band. Beyond the Stones, Jagger teamed up with Nirvana drummer Dave Grohl in 2021 to record Eazy Sleazy, a song about life during the pandemic. With songs like Jumpin’ Jack Flash, Gimme Shelter, Sympathy for the Devil, and Not Fade Away, Jagger’s band helped detonate the cultural and social explosion of the 1960s. The charismatic frontman built a reputation for pushing boundaries, taking full advantage of the era’s sexual The rock icon has hosted SNL twice. The story of one of the world’s greatest rock ‘n’ roll bands. revolution and recreational drug use. Establishment figure Michael Philip Jagger was born on July 26, 1943, to middle-class parents in Dartford, south of London. He started jamming with his childhood friend Keith Richards in 1960 after they discovered a mutual love of the blues, and they have enjoyed a productive, if love-hate, relationship ever since. Jagger dropped out of the London School of Economics in the pursuit of fame, and in 1965 the band had their first smash hit with (I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction. A string of massive hits across five decades followed, including Brown Sugar, Honky Tonk Women, and Paint It Black. The band became as famous for their off-stage antics as those on stage. Jagger and Richards were found guilty of drug offences in 1967, while founding member Brian Jones paid the ultimate price for the rock and roll lifestyle, drowning in his swimming pool in 1969. “I wasn’t understanding enough about his drug addiction,” Jagger said in 1995. “Things like LSD were all new. No one knew the harm. People thought cocaine was good for you.” Despite the drug-fuelled indulgences and controversies, Jagger has always kept a careful eye on the commercial side of things and has amassed a UK£310 million (RM1,829 million) fortune, according to the Sunday Times Rich List 2021. For all his image as a subversive figure, Jagger has, in later life, become a pillar of the establishment. He became “Sir Mick” in 2002 after being knighted by Queen Elizabeth II and is frequently spotted at Lord’s, watching the England cricket team. The rocker became a father for the eighth time in 2016 when American dancer Melanie Hamrick, his current partner, gave birth to a son. He has seven other children from four previous relationships. – AFP
19 LIFESTYLE theSun LYFE ON MONDAY | JULY 31, 2023 THE famed Yamazaki distillery marks its 100th anniversary this year with plenty to celebrate, as Japan’s acclaimed aged whiskies command increasingly eye-watering prices thanks to growing demand and longstanding shortages. Japan’s oldest distillery has sat at the foot of a mountain outside Kyoto since it was built by Shinjiro Torii, the founder of Yamazaki maker Suntory, who wanted to make whisky suited to a Japanese palate. It is largely foreign demand, along with the relative scarcity of the most desirable decades-old bottles, that has pushed prices sky-high. A bottle of Yamazaki 55, with an official retail price of JP3 million (RM97,098), sold for a whopping US$600,000 (RM2,743 million) at a Sotheby’s auction in New York last year. That was still well below the record US$795,000 (RM3,635 million) set at a Hong Kong auction in 2020. And in Japan’s upscale Ginza district, a more modest Yamazaki 18 with a manufacturer’s price of JP32,000 (RM1005) is on sale for JP120,000 (RM3883). Suntory does not disclose production volume, but the distillery’s senior general manager, Takahisa Fujii, said it has risen dramatically over the past 20 years. The company announced plans this year to pump JP10 billion (RM323,637,000 million) into its Yamazaki and Hakushu distilleries, but demand still far outstrips capacity. “We have received so many requests for our whisky from customers around the world, so we are trying to respond to them as best we can,“ Fujii said. The Yamazaki distillery welcomes dozens of visitors from Japan and abroad each day, but those hoping to stock up on aged varieties come away disappointed. Peter Kaleta, a 35-year-old visitor who runs a bar in Poland, was crestfallen that he couldn’t buy one of his favourites. It’s a “must-have” for whisky bars, he added, calling the lack of aged varieties “kind of depressing”. The boom is back Junpei Kusunoki, manager of Tokyo Whisky Library, a bar in the chic Omotesando district, is no stranger to the struggle for supply. “The whisky boom is back,“ he told AFP. “There’s a quota in the Truffles: A new sugar alternative AFTER the World Health Organisation decided to maintain aspartame in the category of artificial sweeteners that are potentially carcinogenic when consumed in high quantities, a brand-new sugar alternative has been developed. As well as being natural in origin, it’s above all the taste of this truffle-based product that could seal its success. Truffles are often associated with pasta dishes or omelettes. But what if you could add them to yoghurt or coffee too? It may seem like a far-fetched idea, but it’s one that’s being explored in the United States with the aim of developing a natural sweetener based on a type of truffle. More precisely, the process involves extracting a protein that supposedly delivers a sweet taste. This research has been carried out by an American start-up and highlights the truffle-based product’s absence of aftertaste, unlike other sweeteners. But not just any variety of truffle can be used. This may prove disappointing to fans of the intense flavour of the Périgord black truffle, but here, the breakthrough relates to a variety of truffle cultivated mainly in Hungary, known as the honey truffle. This discovery was made by MycoTechnology, a company already spotlighted for its research into various varieties of mushrooms. At its plant in Colorado, the startup is developing plant-based alternatives to products containing common allergens such as soy, nuts, and milk, using fermented mushrooms as a starting point. Beyond the appealing taste of this new truffle-based sugar alternative, the product could be landing at just the right time, since the dangers of aspartame have once again been under discussion. The World Health Organisation recently maintained its decision to classify the famous artificial sweetener as potentially carcinogenic when consumed in high doses. The WHO considers an intake of up to 40mg per kilogramme of body weight per day to be acceptable. As an example, an adult weighing 70kg would have to consume between 9 and 14 cans of diet soda to exceed this threshold. – ETX STUDIO It is largely foreign demand that has pushed Suntory prices skyhigh. – ETX STUDIO A natural sweetener based on honey truffles has been developed. – ETX STUDIO Liquid gold Liquid gold Omotesando area, so it’s a war against competitors. We’re trying everything to rake in bottles.” The location of Yamazaki’s distillery is a world away from the Scottish terroir most associated with whisky, but Fujii says the site was chosen for the region’s famed water. Its renown traces back to the 16th century, when Japanese tea master Sen no Rikyu laboured nearby. “You can’t make good liquor without good water,“ Fujii said, adding that the humid and misty environment helps age the whisky. The distillery’s unique range of copper stills in different shapes and sizes also contributes to the brand’s particular profile, he said. Yamazaki’s layered and wellbalanced flavours are considered a good match for Japanese cuisine, Fujii said. There are now around 100 distilleries across Japan, according to whisky critic Mamoru Tsuchiya, with a reputation for quality helping boost the profile of their tipples. The exorbitant prices are the result of a “lack of whisky at a time when demand from abroad has increased exponentially”, he said. Today’s success belies a 20-year downturn after domestic consumption peaked in 1983. “Sales were declining every year,“ said Nobuyuki Akiyama, head of Suntory’s whisky marketing division, “so the impact was big”. Make it Suntory time Things only started to turn around in the early 2000s, when Nikka Whisky’s Yoichi 10 and Yamazaki 12 received prestigious international industry awards. And 2003 saw Suntory’s Hibiki 17 play a starring role in the hit movie Lost in Translation, featuring Bill Murray promoting the drink with the line, “For relaxing times, make it Suntory time.” Domestic sales also recovered just as international demand began to rise, thanks in part to the revival of highballs, a mix of whisky and soda. A 2015 television drama based on the life of Nikka Whisky’s founder also helped drive renewed domestic interest. The sudden uptick came too quickly for companies that have to plan production decades in advance. “We have Hibiki 30, for example, where we need to think about how many bottles we should make 30 years into the future,“ said Akiyama, adding it was “impossible” to predict the market so far in advance. For now, sales look likely to continue growing, with exports surging to JP56 billion (RM1,847 million) last year, 14 times more than a decade earlier. Judith Ly, a German visitor to the Yamazaki distillery, said she makes an exception for Japanese whisky. “Normally I don’t drink whisky, but I like the taste,“ she said. “It’s smooth. It’s easy to drink.” – ETX STUDIO oDemand soars for Japanese ‘must-have’ whisky
20 FASHION & BEAUTY theSun LYFE ON MONDAY | JULY 31, 2023 I N the dazzling realm of fashion, where self-expression and style intertwine, there exists a dance between humanity’s desire for beauty and the often-overlooked consequences it has on innocent animals. Animal fashion, with its alluring charm and timeless appeal, has cast a spell on the hearts of fashion enthusiasts across the globe. Yet, beneath the surface of this mesmerising industry, a disturbing reality lingers: the pursuit of aesthetics exacts a heavy toll on the lives of animals. Join us on an exploration of the multifaceted nature of animal fashion, as we delve into the reasons behind its allure and unveil the profound impact it has on our fellow creatures. A magnetic pull Animal fashion holds an undeniable allure, captivating our senses and evoking emotions of luxury, sophistication, and primal connection to the natural world. From the silky elegance of fur to the cosy comfort of wool, these materials have long held a revered place in our fashion choices. They symbolise status, opulence, and a timeless bond with nature. The allure of animal fashion lies not only in its aesthetic appeal but also in the story it tells – a tale of tradition, heritage, and an inherent desire to stand out from the crowd. However, this seductive charm blinds us to the hidden cost borne by animals. Unmasking the dark side Behind the glamorous facade of animal fashion lies a world shrouded in cruelty and environmental devastation. The production of animal-derived materials inflicts immeasurable suffering on countless creatures. From the grisly practices of fur farming to oA journey towards a kinder future Supporting fashion made from animals perpetuates cruelty and harm. – PANAPRIUM Fashion can thrive with innovative and cruelty-free materials. – LIZZI RICHARDSON Plant-based and synthetic materials promote a more sustainable and ecofriendly industry. – LOVE TO KNOW █ BYTHASHINE SELVAKUMARAN The intricate dance of animal fashion /theSunMedia FOLLOW ON YOUTUBE SCAN ME WITH all-new Lustreglass Lipstick colours, you can get extra glam in a single swipe. Introduce your lips to six more long-lasting, glossy, dopamine-inducing pinks and candied oranges to improve your summer lip wardrobe. Make everyday luxury in every way with effortlessly sheer and glossy colour in a stick that nourishes, conditions, and moisturises with the same good-for-lips ingredients you love. Lustreglass Lipstick combines the comfort and feel of a balm, the colour veil of a sheer lipstick, and the shine of a gloss into a single product. In a single swipe, the product provides eight hours of bright colour while wrapping lips in immediate and long-term hydration. Artist-curated pigments combine with megahydration jojoba oil, raspberry seed oil, coconut oil, extra virgin olive oil, shea butter, and hyaluronic acid to make lips look supple, feel supple, and appear as subtle or sublimely tinted as you like, thanks to a buildable formula that allows you to control and customise your level of shade intensity. Consider pink in three luscious shades: light, bright coral Kissmet, clean pink Gummy Bare and rosy Well, Well, Well. Channel sun-warmed oranges in neutral-brown Like I Was Saying…, hot caramel Work Crush and rich peach, Obviously. Also, Kissmet, pure pink Gummy uncovered and rosy Oh, my goodness! will bring out the flirty, uninhibited side of you. These six new alternatives, which join the existing array of 28 exquisite nudes— reds, pinks, mauves, and oranges—are the newest method to give lips a summer vibe just in time for National Lipstick Day. “For moisture-packed colour that steps you right into summer, these six dreamy tints are everything,” stated MAC Global Executive Director of Makeup Artistry Sharryn Hinchliffe of the elevated yet effortless Lustreglass Lipstick effectwhile. She then continued, “Who doesn’t want the benefit of a soft and sheer lipstick that feels like a balm and really provides moisture while adding a slick of trending colour? It’s sheer-shine perfection.” – BY YASMIN ZULRAEZ Lustreglass Sheer-Shine Lipstick by MAC the painful procedures of mulesing and liveplucking, animals become mere commodities in the pursuit of fashion. Moreover, the environmental impact of animal fashion is far-reaching, as the industry’s insatiable demand for animal-derived materials contributes to deforestation, habitat destruction, and greenhouse gas emissions. It is essential to confront the uncomfortable truth that our fashion choices come at the expense of innocent lives. The human paradox While the love for animal fashion persists, a profound contradiction arises. We are drawn to these materials, enticed by their beauty and prestige, yet deep down, our hearts ache for the suffering inflicted upon animals. This paradox reflects the complex interplay between our innate aesthetic desires and our inherent empathy towards other beings. It is this tension that compels us to question the acceptability of animal fashion and seek alternatives that align with our values of compassion and respect for all living creatures. Paving the path to change As the collective consciousness awakens to the dark consequences of animal fashion, a wave of transformation is taking hold. Progressive designers and conscientious consumers are leading the charge, embracing cruelty-free alternatives and sustainable materials. Synthetic fabrics, innovative textiles, and plant-based materials offer a gateway to a more compassionate fashion industry. By shifting our preferences towards ethical fashion, we can break free from the confines of tradition and redefine the boundaries of style. An empathetic future Imagine a world where fashion is a celebration of creativity and empathy, where animals are no longer seen as commodities but as sentient beings deserving of compassion. As consumers, we hold the power to steer the fashion industry towards a more humane and sustainable path. By making conscious choices, supporting brands that prioritise ethical alternatives, and demanding change, we can be catalysts for a revolution in the way we dress. Let us envision a future where fashion becomes a platform for expressing our values, reflecting our deep reverence for life. In the wake of the intricate dance between animal fashion and its consequences, a glimmer of hope emerges. The report series by FOUR PAWS serves as a clarion call, urging the fashion industry and consumers alike to confront the dark reality and embrace a more compassionate approach. Already, visionary brands have embarked on this transformative journey, showcasing innovative textiles and pioneering cruelty-free materials. With FOUR PAWS leading the way, we are empowered to make conscious choices, demanding a future where animals are not mere commodities but sentient beings deserving of kindness and respect. Animal fashion casts a beguiling spell that lures us into its enchanting world. Yet, as we peel back the layers, we encounter the hidden costs paid by animals and the environment. It is our responsibility as fashion enthusiasts to embrace our empathy and advocate for change. By challenging the status quo, supporting ethical alternatives, and fostering a compassionate mindset, we can redefine the narrative of fashion. Let us forge a future where style and empathy coexist harmoniously, creating a world where animals are no longer exploited for the sake of our desires. The time for transformation is now – a time when our fashion choices can illuminate the path towards a more compassionate and sustainable world. Gummy Bare. The full line-up of the new releases. – PICS BY MAC
21 * SPORTS theSUN ON MONDAY | JULY 31, 2023 Item Reg No Make Model Price 1 VDC2247 2019 HONDA CITY 64300 2 VDW3755 2019 PERODUA AXIA 26700 3 W3832R 2014 VOLKSWAGEN POLO 12000 4 DCJ7858 2013 HONDA CITY 27000 5 VDX1337 2019 PERODUA MYVI 45140 6 VAQ9716 2017 NISSAN ALMERA 29000 7 VCF5244 2018 MITSUBISHI FUSO FE71PB8SRDG1 50000 8 VCF5274 2018 MITSUBISHI FUSO FE71PB8SRDG1 50000 9 VCF5238 2018 MITSUBISHI FUSO 50000 10 VAP5752 2017 HINO XZU720R-HKMQK3 0 11 WYV7995 2013 BMW 3 0 For more information contact us at 016-6999170 | 012-5553727 (WhatsApp) www.pickles.my | [email protected] Scan QR to download Pickles Auctions App PICKLES ASIA SDN BHD [1231292-D] Lot 19391, Batu 8 ½, Jalan Klang Lama, Taman Desaria, 46000 Petaling Jaya, Selangor. Bank Repossessed bikes and cars for sale by auction. All auctions are conducted via eBidding on Wednesdays, 2, 9, 16, 23, and 30 August at 10.00am (bikes) and 11.00am (cars). All are invited to join our PUBLIC AUCTION. 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Download Pickles Auctions app to view all auction listings or visit www.pickles.my IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF SIERRA GARDENS SDN BHD (Company No. 201001032790 (916713-H)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding Up) NOTICE OF FINAL MEETING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT pursuant to Section 459 of the Companies Act 2016, the Final Meeting of the Members of the Company will be held at No. 43-M, Jalan Thambypillai, Off Jalan Tun Sambanthan, 50470 Kuala Lumpur on 1st September 2023 at 10.00 a.m. for the following purposes: - (i) To receive the Liquidators’ Statement of Accounts showing the winding-up has been conducted and to give any explanation thereon; (ii) To resolve that the affairs of the Company be hereby deemed as fully wound up and that upon dissolution of the Company, the Liquidator be released and discharged from all liabilities in respect of any act done or default made by her on the administration of the affairs of the Company; and (iii) To determine pursuant to Section 518(3)(b) of the Companies Act 2016, the manner in which the books, accounts and documents of the Company and of the liquidator thereof, may be destroyed. VIGNESWARY A/P SANGAREN Liquidator Dated this: 31st July 2023 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF MISUKOSI (M) SDN. BHD. [199301009167 (263904-W)] (Members’ Voluntary Winding Up) At a General Meeting of the members of MISUKOSI (M) SDN. BHD. duly convened and held at 15-1-3, MENARA PUTRA, LORONG TIONG NAM 5, 50350 KUALA LUMPUR on 30 July 2023 the following Special Resolution(s) was duly passed: - THAT the Company be wound up voluntarily pursuant to Section 439(1)(b) of the Companies Act, 2016 and that TING YONG HUA of 15-1-3, MENARA PUTRA, LORONG TIONG NAM 5, 50350 KUALA LUMPUR be and is hereby appointed Liquidator for the purpose of winding up the company’s affairs and distributing its assets. Date: 31 July 2023 TING YONG HUA Secretary (MACS 00094) SSM PC # 201908001300 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF MISUKOSI (M) SDN. BHD. [199301009167 (263904-W)] (Members’ Voluntary Winding Up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Creditors of the abovenamed Company which is being wound up voluntarily, are required within 30 days of this notice to send in their names and addresses with the particulars of their debts or claims, and the names and addresses of their solicitor (if any) to the undersigned, liquidator of the said company at 15-1-3, MENARA PUTRA, LORONG TIONG NAM 5, 50350 KUALA LUMPUR and, if so required by notice in writing from the said liquidator, are, by their solicitor or personally to come in and prove their debts or claims at such time and place as shall be specified in such notice, or in default thereof they will be excluded from the benefit of any distribution made before such debts or claims are proved. Date: 31 July 2023 TING YONG HUA Liquidator 322 Notices ‘I’ve given my heart and soul’ Broad will leave behind a golden England legacy AS Stuart Broad walks away from his love affair with cricket, after announcing his retirement during the final Ashes Test match, he has undoubtedly left a legacy in the game. Back in 2009, children would have arguments over who was the best bowler between Broad and James Anderson, and it was inconceivable that 14 years later the same duo would still be playing at the top of their game in Ashes Test matches. The 37-year-old has 602 wickets in 167 Test matches, and he will bow out as the second most successful pace bowler in history, behind teammate Anderson. There are moments in his career that people will be able to point at as the moment they fell in love with the game, whether that is his two Test hattricks, including one against India in front of his home crowd at Trent Bridge in 2011, or taking eight for 15 as England secured the Ashes, again in Nottingham, in 2015. Broad has had a love affair with the Ashes from the outset, and like many of the great players, the higher the occasion the more they rise to it and he explained his love for one of the sports oldest traditions, and the battle for one of its smallest trophies. “(There is) something in my family history with Ashes cricket, I grew up at such a young age being besotted by it,” Broad said. “(During) my influential years as a kid (we) weren’t winning many Tests and that grew my hunger and desire to be part of teams that could win against Australia. “I’ve had a good record in England against Australia, they are such a beast of a team at home to get near. “But the competitiveness of what Australia bring to cricket brings out the best in me.” More than mere statistics however, Broad epitomises what “Bazball” England is all about, he is an entertainer. The celebration-appeals as he wheels down to the slips, or the hand movements to whip up the crowd, he has lived for every moment on the field for England. And for the bowler, that is how he hopes he will be remembered. “Ultimately how I have played my sport, I have never wanted anyone in the crowd or watching at home or listening on the radio to think ‘he’s not putting in, he’s not giving absolutely everything or putting his heart and soul into it’. “I would say every day I’ve pulled on a Nottinghamshire shirt or an England shirt, I’ve given my heart and soul. “I can’t think there’ll be too many cricket fans out there who would think I’ve slacked off for a moment.” – The Independent England press for Ashes-levelling win JOE ROOT and Jonny Bairstow combined for a sublime century partnership as England took a giant stride towards levelling the Ashes in the fifth Test at The Oval yesterday. England, in a match they must win to square the series at 2-2, were 389-9 in their second innings at stumps on the third day – a commanding lead of 377 runs. Root (91) and Bairstow (78) were both in superb touch during a fifthwicket stand of 110, with the only sadness for a capacity home crowd the fact that neither Yorkshireman was able to complete an individual hundred. A late flurry of wickets, with Mitchell Starc taking 4-94 after a pounding by England’s top order, gave Australia a glimmer of hope. England’s current advantage means Australia already would have to achieve the joint ninth-highest total to win in the fourth innings of a Test if they are to pull off an improbable victory. Hope leads Windies to first ODI win over India WEST INDIES captain Shai Hope played the sheet anchor role to perfection in taking his team to a series-levelling six-wicket victory over India in the second One-Day International of a three-match series at Kensington Oval in Barbados on Saturday. After his bowlers capitalised on a helpful pitch and an unconvincing India batting effort to dismiss their opponents for 181 off 40.5 overs, Hope’s unbeaten 63 and the support of Keacy Carty (48 not out) in an unbroken fifth-wicket partnership of 91 ended a nine-match run of defeats to India in ODIs spanning four years. It was also a swift comeback in the wake of the Caribbean side’s dispiriting five-wicket loss in the opening match at the same venue on Thursday and sets the stage for the series decider on Tuesday at the Brian Lara Stadium in Trinidad. “Once I can contribute to team wins I am happy. Whether I get a 50, whether I get a hundred, whether I get a double-hundred, as long as we win I am happy,” said a delighted Hope. Fritz powers into Atlanta final TOP-SEEDED American Taylor Fritz defeated compatriot JJ Wolf 6-3, 7-5 yesterday to book a title clash with Australian Aleksandar Vukic in the ATP Tour hardcourt tournament in Atlanta. Fritz, ranked ninth in the world, will be chasing his second title of the season after lifting his fifth career ATP trophy in Delray Beach in February. “It was really solid,” Fritz said. “I served well the whole match. Whenever I was in trouble I played a lot of good points. “I just did what I was supposed to do and didn’t really give him much,” added Fritz, who saved both break points he faced. Vukic, the 27-year-old from Sydney, defeated Frenchman Ugo Humbert 3-6, 7-6 (7-2), 7-5 to reach his maiden ATP Tour final. Fritz and Vukic have never met before and the Australian knows he is the clear underdog. “It’s going to be a tough match. I need to serve well and return well and play like I did in the second and third set and I think anything’s possible with this energy, with this environment. “I’ve got nothing to lose, so let’s see what happens,” he said. GLENN MCGRATH described Stuart Broad as a “true champion” and Mike Atherton called him an “undeniably great cricketer” after the England bowler announced that he will retire from cricket following the Ashes. “It is a big decision but you come to a time when you know,” former Australia bowler McGrath told BBC’s Test Match Special. “He loves the big moments, he loves the pressure and that is the sign of a true champion. “Going out on your own terms is special as well. He has been incredible for England for a long, long time.” Former England captains Atherton, Nasser Hussain and Sir Alastair Cook were also quick to pay tribute to Broad, who made his Test debut against Sri Lanka in December 2007. Atherton told Sky Sports: “Great is an overused word sometimes in the commentary box but Stuart is an undeniably great cricketer for England. “I think he’s chosen his moment wisely – what better place to go out than against Australia in the Ashes – and he can look back with a great deal of pride at a fantastic career.” Nasser added: “He’s the complete article – the fitness, the hunger, the competitiveness, the skill – and the one thing I know about Stuart Broad is that he won’t let that emotion get in the way of this game. “That has been the benchmark throughout his career, he wants to win games for England.” Cook was captain when Broad returned his Test best figures of eight for 15 against Australia at Trent Bridge in August 2015. “I’m a bit emotional and a bit surprised. The one player to deliver, alongside Ben Stokes, in the big moments is Stuart Broad and what a feeling that must be for a player.” – The Independent Cricketing greats salute ‘true champion’ SHORTS England’s Stuart Broad walks off at the end of play on day three of the fifth Ashes Test match against Australia at The Oval. – AFPPIX
22 theSUN ON MONDAY | JULY 31, 2023 SPORTS @thesundaily FOLLOW ON INSTAGRAM SCAN ME 5671/2023 30/07/2023 (SUN) 0398 7471 7749 4008 5014 7086 9723 2364 5109 2157 9411 7809 5865 2318 0462 6339 1835 1225 1577 5949 7838 8054 0150 6,090,635.24 0398 0398 0398 7749 7749 7471 7749 7749 7471 7471 0398 7471 295,923.64 0398 7471 7749 DOG 63115 75572 5572 572 10263 7 2 9 6 860196 60196 0196 196 86019 8601 860 8 6 8,265,030.26 4,553,675.46 105 14 19 40 43 297,207.37 141 17 31 38 43 7 8 10 13 35 44 21,002,441.01 26 192 462 +DRAGON 975 762 + RABBIT 402 430 + GOAT Draw Date: 30/07/23 (Sun) Draw No: 5618/23 Venue: PERAK TURF CLUB 2462 5762 2430 7814 + 7275 1221 + 8623 3500 + 4610 0738 + 7989 4745 + 9892 4105 + 4935 9740 + 8848 6936 + 4092 9230 + 6459 3699 + 9956 RM20,132,948.30 2462 + 5762 5762 + 2462 2462 + 2430 2430 + 2462 5762 + 2430 2430 + 5762 RM210,743.90 RM2,133,613.00 RM1,676,527.70 RM2,586,754.20 077 814 697 275 471 221 408 623 993 500 974 610 280 738 007 989 324 745 319 892 604 105 644 935 789 740 518 848 636 936 084 092 349 230 226 459 353 699 769 956 462 762 430 RM895,377.80 462 + 762 + 430 762 + 430 + 462 462 + 430 + 762 430 + 462 + 762 762 + 462 + 430 430 + 762 + 462 1+3D Jackpot 2 RM200,037.80 won on 29/07/2023! Reggae Girlz date with destiny Jamaica make history as France leave it late to reboot World Cup hopes FRANCE breathed fresh life into their Women’s World Cup campaign with a 2-1 victory over Brazil on Saturday as Sweden barrelled into the last 16 and Jamaica claimed a historic first win. France captain Wendie Renard headed in the winner seven minutes from time in front of nearly 50,000 in Brisbane to earn a vital three points and leave Brazil’s World Cup in peril. The result blew Group F wide open. France are top on four points from two games and in pole position to qualify along with Jamaica, who have the same number of points following a 1-0 triumph over Panama. Sweden thumped Italy 5-0 to join title contenders Spain and former champions Japan in reaching the knockout rounds with a match to spare. Three goals in seven minutes in the first half did the damage in Wellington as Italy struggled to deal with Sweden’s set pieces and aerial threat. Arsenal defender Amanda Ilestedt scored twice and has three goals at this World Cup, all with her head. “Maybe I didn’t expect three goals but I know that’s one of my strengths and it’s something we’re working on a lot at training,” she said. Jamaica won at the Women’s World Cup for the first time with a deserved victory over debutants Panama. Skipper Allyson Swaby headed in from a corner early in the second half to give Jamaica their first victory at the fifth attempt. Jamaica face Brazil on Wednesday knowing they only need a point to claim a landmark spot in the last 16. The success comes against the backdrop of rows with the Jamaican football federation over a lack of support for the team and unpaid expenses. Jamaica will need “something special” if they are to get the point they need against Brazil, their coach Lorne Donaldson said. Donaldson warned he anticipated a “dogfight” in Melbourne and warned that sitting back to defend a point against an attacking Brazil would invite trouble. “They have a lot of flair… They play one way, and they’re going to play that way,” Donaldson said. “We have to come out and do something special to get something out of the game. “If you had asked me before the World Cup that we have the last game to decide our fate, I would have said yes, give it to us,” Donaldson added. “That’s what we wanted, we wanted to have a chance to play for something in the last game. “When we look at it, after the adversity that we had, we knew as a group that give us a chance and we can (do something). “I think it’s wonderful that we still have a chance to do something.” –AFP Boutier in control at Evian CELINE BOUTIER is 18 holes away from winning her first major championship, and on her home soil to top it off. Boutier shot a 4-under 67 yesterday to build a three-stroke lead after three rounds of the Evian Championship in Evian-les-Bains, France. “I feel like it was definitely a grind,” Boutier said. “I was able to start off pretty good. “I feel like I missed a few shots in the beginning of the back nine, but was able to scramble, and so I feel like it’s pretty positive, and solid round for me today.” Boutier was born in Clamart, France, a little more than five hours southeast of Evian Resort Golf Club. “I feel like the fact that my family is here and we’re staying in a house 15, 20 minutes away kind of really helps me take my mind off golf and the tournament,” Boutier said. “I feel like that’s been helpful for me to really kind of relax and not think about golf.” Japan’s Nasa Hataoka shot a 68 to move into sole possession of second place at 8-under. Defending champion Brooke Henderson of Canada moved into contention at 7-under with a rollercoaster 67 and is tied with Australia’s Minjee Lee. The round of the day was Nelly Korda’s bogey-free, 7-under 64. The World No. 2 climbed to 6-under for the championship, tied for fifth with Japan’s Yuka Saso (71). – Field Level Media Hodges leads 3M by five shots LEE HODGES is in solid position to win his first PGA title as he holds a five-shot lead after three rounds of the 3M Open at Blaine, Minnesota. Hodges sits at 20-under 193 after recording a 5- under 66 in yesterday’s third round at TPC Twin Cities. JT Poston is a distant second after also shooting 66. Without a victory on Tour under his belt, Hodges has been playing without any expectations, allowing him to head into the final round with little pressure. “I have nothing to lose. I’m out here playing with house money,” Hodges said. “I have a job next year on the PGA Tour, this is all great. This is just icing on the cake.” Defending champion Tony Finau is six shots back in third. Australia’s Aaron Baddeley is seven shots off the pace. “I think I’m going to be in pretty similar position I was in last year, a handful of shots back, maybe more,” Finau said. “It’s a golf course that can yield some birdies, and I’m definitely going to have to make some (Sunday) if I’m going to make a run.” – Field Level Media France's Celine Boutier competes during the Evian Championship. – AFPPIX Lee Hodges. – AFPPIX
23 * SPORTS theSUN ON MONDAY | JULY 31, 2023 /thesundaily FOLLOW ON FACEBOOK SCAN ME Ready for battle US thrive on pressure of do-or-die group stage match, says Rapinoe THE United States are built to handle the pressure of their do-or-die final group stage match, veteran Megan Rapinoe said, with everything on the line against Portugal tomorrow (3pm Malaysian time) at the Women’s World Cup. The four-times champions have never exited in the group stage but may suffer that fate without a win or a draw against the World Cup debutantes, after beating Vietnam in the opener and settling for a 1-1 draw to the Netherlands. It is hardly the position fans imagined the team would be in as they pursue an unprecedented third consecutive title. “Everybody’s like, ‘Okay, we have to perform better and we have to get this result’. I mean, I think that that is something that just always gets passed down through the generations of this team,” Rapinoe told reporters. “We go into these moments like, ‘Hell yeah, this is exactly where we want to be’.” The 2019 Ballon d’Or winner saw that spirit in the Americans’ second-half display against the Netherlands, when a fired-up Lindsey Horan powered in a header to get the US team the equaliser. This year’s performance has drawn comparisons to the United States’ 2015 campaign, when they opened with a win against Australia and a scoreless draw against Sweden. They went on to beat Japan in the final. “Being on the US women’s national team it kind of always feels like this,” said Rapinoe. “This is just the pressure in general being at the World Cup – this moment is going to come no matter what. So it’s not a bad thing. “I don’t think, for everyone to be like, ‘Okay, let’s like, you know, strap in and get ready for this game’.” Playing in her fourth World Cup, this year’s tournament undeniably carries more meaning for the 38-year-old forward, as she previously announced she would retire at the end of her club season. She has shown no objection to assuming the role of a mostly sideline mentor this time around to a young and less experienced team, after playing the on-field hero in 2019. “We’re unsatisfied with the way that we’ve played, but we know the areas that we can be better,“ said Rapinoe. “And I think there’s some really simple fixes that we can do to put ourselves in a better position.” Asked her how her team should be judged if they were not to win it all, however, she was forced to confront the once-unthinkable. Rapinoe gave a long pause, letting the question linger in the air, before offering a response. “I never thought about that.” – Reuters Atlas Lionesses beat South Korea for first WC win MOROCCO won a Women’s World Cup match for the first time after Ibtissam Jraidi struck early to give them a stunning 1-0 victory over South Korea yesterday. Having been thrashed 6-0 by Germany on their World Cup debut, this hard-earned win kept alive Morocco’s unlikely chances of reaching the last 16 in Australia and New Zealand. As well as a first victory ever at the tournament, there was another piece of history for Morocco when defender Nouhaila Benzina became the first player to wear a hijab at the Women’s World Cup. Benzina had shared social media posts in the lead-up to the World Cup about wearing a hijab and told broadcaster Al Jazeera it would be a proud moment. “Lots of work was done over many years, and thank God it had a positive result,” she said. “We hope to play at a high level and honour Moroccans.” French coach Reynald Pedros saw his Morocco team take the lead after only six minutes in front of just over 13,000 fans in Adelaide. Hanane Ait El Haj crossed and forward Jraidi nipped in ahead of her marker to expertly glance her header into the far corner. Morocco, one of the lowestranked teams at the tournament at 72 in the world, were supposed underdogs against the 17th-ranked Koreans. But they made by far the better start against shell-shocked opponents. Colin Bell’s Korean side belatedly grew into the game towards the end of the first half, but like in their 2-0 opening defeat to Colombia, they lacked punch up front. Many of the crowd were shouting for the Koreans and their team piled on the pressure in the second half as they attempted to keep their World Cup hopes alive. Going into the nervy final 10 minutes, South Korea had had 10 attempts at goal – none of which were on target. – AFP Japan clash biggest test yet, says Spain coach COACH Jorge Vilda warned his Spain team they will be fully tested for the first time at this Women’s World Cup in their group-deciding clash with Japan today (3pm). Both sides go into their final Group C game in Wellington having already reached the last 16 and neither conceded in comfortable wins over Zambia and Costa Rica. But Vilda said that former world champions Japan will be a different proposition as they battle for top spot in the group – and with it a theoretically easier path in the knockouts. “I’m expecting a game not like the previous two games,” Vilda said yesterday. “Japan’s a very good team, interprets the game well and has quality players. Tactically they are very well trained and it’s a team that can exert pressure on us. “I think that the difference could be the team that is better in the last third of the field.” Both beat Zambia 5-0 but Spain’s 3-0 defeat of Costa Rica, compared to Japan’s 2- 0 win over the same opponents, means Spain top the group with a superior goal difference of one. Vilda’s side will therefore finish top if the match with Japan ends in a draw. Their last-16 opponents will both come from Group A while defending champions the United States or Sweden could then await in the quarterfinals. But Vilda said he won’t take any notice of his team’s potential pathway through the knockout phase. “We have not wasted a second thinking about who we’re going to play in the last 16,” he said. “We have no control over that and we’re not going to worry about it. “We want it to be a match that will make us grow as a team and I’m convinced that tomorrow’s game is like that, but it’s not a decisive match.” – AFP Barca draw first blood against Real Madrid BARCELONA continued their preseason tour of the USA with a 3-0 win over Real Madrid in Arlington, Texas, yesterday. Ousmane Dembele’s early goal was followed up by late strikes from Fermin Lopez and Ferran Torres. New signing Jude Bellingham played for Barca’s El Clasico rivals Real and the England midfielder’s header was one of five Real efforts that struck the woodwork at the AT&T Stadium. “The result is a bit misleading,” said Barca coach Xavi Hernandez. “We shouldn’t be overconfident. The result is very favourable but it doesn’t mean we played a super match. “It was a very even match in which Madrid also had many chances. There are many things to improve.” Barca complete their trip with a game against AC Milan in Las Vegas on Wednesday while Real face Juventus in Orlando the following day. “The result is the least important thing,” said Real coach Carlo Ancelotti. “It hurts to lose, but I’ll keep the good things we did. “We were good in terms of intensity, we had a lot of chances that didn’t go in. Five (against the woodwork) in a game is quite rare, I don’t think it has ever happened to me. But it’s better if it happens in preseason.”– Agencies *Per match Group E, August 1 Eden Park, Auckland POR 0-1 NED POR 2-0 VNM USA 3-0 VNM USA 1-1 NED Match 1 Match 2 HEAD-TO-HEAD Portugal 0 USA 10 Goals scored Portugal v USA WORLD CUP RECORD 1 0 1 1.00 0.50 41 7 4 2.73 0.75 Wins Draws Losses Goals for* Goals against* © GRAPHIC NEWS Women’s World Cup 0 39 Draws 0 Morocco’s Ibtissam Jraidi (bottom right) scores her team’s first goal against South Korea. – REUTERSPIX
theSun is published and printed by Sun Media Corporation Sdn Bhd (221220-K) of Lot 6, Jalan 51/217, 46050 Petaling Jaya, Selangor. Tel: 03-7784 6688 Fax: 03-7783 7435 • Tel (Editorial): 03-7784 6688 Fax: 03-7785 2624/5 Email: [email protected] • Tel (Advertising): 03-7784 8888 Fax: 03-7784 4424 Email: [email protected] NEW ZEALAND captain Ali Riley admitted there were plenty of tears among the Football Ferns after the co-hosts bowed out of the Women’s World Cup yesterday. A goalless draw against Switzerland in Dunedin was not enough for New Zealand to reach the knockout stages, while the Swiss advanced after finishing top of Group A. “There are a lot of tears out there, but they should be so proud to finish on four points,” Riley said as Norway advanced on goal difference at New Zealand’s expense, having chalked up the same points tally. “We gave everything. It was a really good performance, especially defensively. We fought really hard.” New Zealand had high hopes of reaching the last 16 after a 1-0 win over Norway in their opening game. It was the Football Ferns’ first-ever win at a World Cup to end a 15-match winless streak dating back to the inaugural 1991 tournament. However, a shock defeat to the Philippines left New Zealand needing to beat the Swiss, but the home side failed to get the goal they needed. “We said to leave everything on the pitch, make this country proud, show who we are. And I think we did that,” said Riley. “Switzerland are a good team and I wish them all the luck.” Their opening win over Norway at Auckland’s Eden Park drew a crowd of around 42,000 – a record for New Zealand in either men’s or women’s football. Riley had a clear message for her team. “Be proud. Be proud of what we’ve achieved with the crowd cheering us on,” she said. “I hope that little girls across New Zealand will start playing football and achieve whatever they put their mind to.” Fighting back tears, New Zealand head coach Jitka Klimkova admitted being “super emotional because everyone’s very disappointed about the result, but this team can be so proud”. The former Czech Republic defender said playing three home matches in front of bumper, near-sell-out crowds showed the support New Zealand had at this World Cup. “It’s what we hoped for and our crowds showed how much they care. We wanted to make them proud and I believe we did,” she added. Midfielder Malia Steinmetz also applauded the home supporters, before admitting: “It’s gutting, we were so close.” Norway ran riot to qualify for the last 16 after a 6-0 demolition of the Philippines. Roman Haug netted twice early on and Caroline Graham Hansen got the third before halftime. Alicia Barker scored an own goal and Guro Reiten added a penalty before Roman Haug completed her hattrick as a Norway team that had not scored in their first two outings at this World Cup came to life. Norway advance to a last-16 tie in Wellington on Saturday against whoever tops Group C between Japan and Spain. Switzerland will head to Auckland to face the Group C runners-up the same day. Norway were again without star striker Ada Hegerberg, with the former Ballon d’Or winner still recovering from a groin injury. However, coach Hege Riise recalled Graham Hansen after controversially dropping the Barcelona winger in the last match. Haug, the 24-year-old Roma forward, again filled in for Hegerberg and it took her just six minutes to open the scoring. She got her second in the 17th minute before Graham Hansen made it 3-0 in the 31st minute with a great long-range strike. The Philippines had most of the 34,697 crowd on their side, but they were totally outclassed. The fourth goal arrived three minutes after half-time when Barker turned Frida Maanum’s low cross into her own net before Reiten comfortably stroked home the fifth from a spotkick. Salt was rubbed into Filipino wounds as substitute Sofia Harrison was shown a red card for a late challenge on Bjelde. Haug then got her third and Norway’s sixth when she headed home a Reiten cross in injury time. – AFP or download app from the App Store or Google PlayTM . Read iPaper at www.thesundaily.my Free access to iPaper PDF Download SCAN ME MONDAY • JULY 31, 2023 Tears flow as co-hosts New Zealand exit Women’s World Cup MANCHESTER UNITED have a reached a deal in principle to sign Atalanta striker Rasmus Hojlund, the PA news agency understands. Having wrapped up the signings of Chelsea midfielder Mason Mount and Inter Milan goalkeeper Andre Onana, a deal has been struck for the highly-rated 20-year-old. United are understood to have agreed to pay £64 million (RM372m) for Hojlund, with a further £8m (RM47m) in add-ons. The Denmark international has agreed terms on a five-year deal with the option of a further season. Hojlund is seen by the Old Trafford giants as a rough diamond who can be polished by Erik ten Hag, who made no secret of the need for attacking help after last week’s 2-0 friendly loss to Real Madrid. The Dutchman’s side failed to score from any of their 14 attempts under the NRG Stadium roof, an all too familiar tale given their problems taking opportunities last season. Asked if the attacking display in Houston emphasised why they are looking to sign a new striker, Ten Hag said: “Absolutely. “There were two things – the pressing can be better from the start and scoring goals. “I think we need more players who are capable to be in the one-onones and we had the situations of one-on-ones. “It was (Marcus) Rashford, it was, I thought, Scott McTominay in one-onone situations. (Alejandro) Garnacho, a one-on-one situation. From the situations, you have to score.” United also got another boost when defender Diogo Dalot committed his long-term future to the club. A decade has now passed since the Red Devils won their 20th League title, with the resulting post-Sir Alex Ferguson era full of ups, downs and too little silverware. Dalot is now under his fifth either permanent or interim manager since joining United from Porto in 2018 but Ten Hag’s promising first season suggests the club are back on track. The meticulous Dutchman has changed style and mindset at a club that are desperate to push on from their third-placed Premier League finish and Carabao Cup triumph. “(Last season) brings us momentum, energy as well, to look back on what we did last year,” Dalot told the PA news agency. “It has to bring us energy to build even more, to raise the bar a little bit higher. “I think we have all the conditions to give a little bit more and plus, so we can even get better from what we did last year. “It doesn’t fully (reflect) on the entire success that this football club works for and deserves. “Like our manager said, we see it as progress, a little step forward. “Obviously playing two finals, winning a trophy, being up there competing for the Premier League, that’s where we want to aim. “We know that it’s difficult, we have a lot of teams to compete (against), but we are Man United, so we have to look (at) that not as a motivation but as a responsibility to fulfil the objectives of this club.” Improving on last season will be a challenge given treble-winning rivals Manchester City’s quality and the improvements made by the Premier League’s other top clubs. But Dalot is in no doubt that United are back on the up and that he is in the right place to succeed, having recently signed a new deal until 2028 with an option for a further season. “I think it’s a combination of me and the club, the connection that we have,” the Portugal international said of that deal. “The project that the club believe that I can be a part of. “Obviously the manager, the important role that he had since he came here to help me to develop even more, so I think this is the perfect combination for me. “I didn’t have any doubts on keeping here at this club and fighting for even more.” – The Independent █ SIMON PEACH Signed & sealed Man United agree initial RM372m deal for Atalanta striker Hojlund New Zealand’s Ali Riley (left) and Betsy Hassett after the 2023 Women’s World Cup Group A match against Switzerland at Dunedin Stadium yesterday. – AFPPIX