Malaysian Paper www.thesun.my RM1.00 PER COPY RM1 TUESDAY MAY 7, 2024 SCAN ME No. 8516 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195) Selangor Sultan condemns acid attack on state footballer as immoral, orders immediate and thorough police probe to identify motive and apprehend perpetrator. Malaysian Employers Federation suggests govt aid for micro-enterprises struggling to pay staff RM1,500 monthly minimum wage. Report on — page 3 Economist proposes vertical farming in urban areas, optimising abandoned and heritage land by rural folk, and rebranding agriculture sector to attract young talent. Report on — page 4 REGAL PRESENCE ... His Majesty the King of Malaysia Sultan Ibrahim, accompanied by Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, inspecting a guard-of-honour at Ceremonial Plaza at the start of his first state visit to the republic since ascending the throne. – BERNAMAPIC Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim urges civil servants to give their best to justify recognition and confidence accorded by government through salary increment. Royal call for action Salary ruling pressure on small firms ‘Maximise land use to curb food imports’ Report on hpage 2 Serve with erve with integrity ntegrity Report on — page 2
TUESDAY | MAY 7, 2024 2 Civil servants urged to justify confidence accorded by govt PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has urged civil servants to maintain their service integrity to justify the recognition and confidence accorded them by the government through salary adjustments under the Public Service Remuneration System. Speaking at a monthly gathering of staff of the Prime Minister’s Department yesterday, he said civil servants should identify individuals who tarnish the reputation of the service. “So, I ask that while we provide a somewhat radical shift in terms of recognition and rewards to civil servants, you should monitor your departments and colleagues to FESTIVE COLOURS ... Anwar with Sarawak Immigration Department staff at a Madani Aidilfitri event in Putrajaya yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC oWage hike approved despite economic uncertainties, as PM adopted Madani perspective of compassion, humanity S’gor Sultan orders probe into acid attack on footballer SHAH ALAM: The Sultan of Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah has demanded that the police immediately investigate the acid attack on Selangor FC footballer Faisal Halim at a shopping mall on Sunday. Sultan Sharafuddin, who is the Selangor FC patron, and the Raja Muda of Selangor Tengku Amir Shah, who is the Selangor FC president, have condemned the attack, calling it immoral. In a post on the Selangor Royal Office Facebook page, the Sultan and the Raja Muda called on the police to investigate the attack thoroughly to discover the motive and apprehend the assailant. “His Royal Highness views the attack seriously and wants the investigation to consider the possibility of involvement by groups with bad intentions, including football hooligans. “The Sultan is very disappointed and views such attacks as extreme as they involve the lives of sportsmen,” the statement read. The Sultan also urged those with information to come forward and cooperate with the police, adding that if such incidents were left unchecked, the situation might worsen and lead to worse attacks in the future. His Royal Highness also prayed for Faisal’s speedy recovery and eventual return to Selangor FC as an active player. Faisal sustained injuries when he was splashed with acid while at a shopping mall in Kota Damansara, Petaling Jaya on Sunday evening. Selangor Youth, Sports and Entrepreneurship Committee chairman Mohd Najwan Halimi said Faisal had suffered second-degree burns to several parts of his body, including his neck, shoulders, arms and chest. Meanwhile, police have arrested a man in his 20s over the attack on Faisal and have also recorded statements from three individuals, including the victim. Investigators are expected to interview several more witnesses to facilitate the probe into the incident. Police have yet to establish a motive for the attack. – Bernama/Agencies King, Queen on maiden state visit to Singapore SINGAPORE: THE King and Queen of Malaysia, His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim and Her Majesty Raja Zarith Sofiah, arrived in Singapore yesterday for a two-day state visit to the republic. The state visit, the first since His Majesty’s ascension to the federal throne on Jan 31, is at the invitation of Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam. Sultan Ibrahim and Raja Zarith Sofiah departed from Istana Besar, Johor at 9.45am in a car convoy, accompanied by two ministers-inattendance, namely Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook and Singapore Foreign Minister Dr Vivian Balakrishnan. Their Majesties were also accompanied by the High Commissioner of Malaysia to Singapore Datuk Dr Azfar Mohamad Mustafar. Sultan Ibrahim and Raja Zarith Sofiah, who entered Singapore via the Johor Causeway, were greeted upon arrival at The Istana, at 10.45am by Tharman and his wife, Jane Ittogi Shanmugaratnam. His Majesty, accompanied by the president, then inspected a guard of honour at the Ceremonial Plaza, The Istana. The King’s schedule for the day includes a meeting with Tharman, followed by an audience with Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, who will step down on May 15, and a State Banquet hosted by Tharman at The Istana. On Tuesday, the King will begin the second day of the state visit with an audience with Singapore Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Lawrence Wong, followed by a visit to the Parliament building. In the meantime, the Queen will be visiting a women’s and children’s hospital here. Their Majesties are also scheduled to inspect the progress of the Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit System Link (RTS Link) project before departing for Malaysia, Bernama reported. The RTS Link involves a 4km shuttle service between Woodlands North station, Singapore and Bukit Chagar in Johor Bahru. Sultan Ibrahim had officiated at the groundbreaking ceremony for the project on Nov 22, 2022. Benefits of wasteto-wealth initiative PUTRAJAYA: The Segamat district could benefit from the implementation of community garden and waste-to-wealth policies adopted by the Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya, said Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Dr Zaliha Mustafa. She said the initiative promotes environmental sustainability and provides economic benefits to the local community. Zaliha said a Federal Territories delegation exploring possible cooperation between the Segamat Municipal Council and the Federal Territories Department, Kuala Lumpur City Hall and Putrajaya Corporation had discussed the matter, Bernama reported. “Expertise and resources from these three local authorities open up opportunities to enhance the quality of life for residents in both the Federal Territories and the Segamat district.” identify those who tarnish the reputation of civil servants. “There is a small group involved in corruption, absenteeism and various problems. Should we treat this small group the same way? My answer is no, we will not provide the same treatment.” Also present were Deputy Prime Ministers Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, and Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Mohd Zuki Ali. Anwar, who is also finance minister, said the government has made a radical and bold decision to increase the salaries of civil servants when the country has not fully recovered from economic uncertainties and problems such as leakages and corruption. “If we follow economic considerations, standard economic theory, all salary increases should be postponed until the economy is more stable, meaning less debt. “But I see it from the perspective of Madani – compassion, humanity, efficiency level and sustainability. Why should we burden civil servants for mistakes not solely of their making but sometimes due to mismanagement and negligence by many other parties? “Based on this consideration, they should not be made to shoulder the burden. It is appropriate for us as the father figure in the large government family to make the bold decision (to increase civil servants’ salaries).” He said the decision to increase the salaries has also been extensively discussed with the top government management such as Mohd Zuki and Public Service Department director-general Datuk Seri Wan Ahmad Dahlan Abdul Aziz. Anwar said the decision to increase salaries is to instil confidence in public sector workers that the Madani government leadership is genuinely serious about finding the best possible way to help. He expressed confidence that the proposed salary hike would be approved by Parliament during the Budget 2025 session in October, Bernama reported. “There are some who dispute, saying it’s not settled yet and Parliament may not approve it. “I would like to know which MP wants to object. Even if they oppose, we have Pakatan Harapan, Barisan Nasional, Gabungan Parti Sarawak and Gabungan Rakyat Sabah to give two-thirds majority (support), Insya Allah.” On May 1, in conjunction with the national-level 2024 Labour Day celebration, Anwar announced a salary hike for civil servants of more than 13% effective December, involving an allocation of more than RM10 billion. Anwar said the salary adjustment would ensure that the lowest-ranking civil servants would earn at least RM2,000 a month.
TUESDAY | MAY 7, 2024 3 PETALING JAYA: Complying with the basic wage requirement of RM1,500 monthly as stipulated in the 2022 Minimum Wage Order (MWO) across all sectors can be particularly challenging for micro-enterprises and small businesses, said Malaysian Employers Federation (MEF) president Datuk Dr Syed Hussain Syed Husman. Currently, there are employers with five or more workers who are ignoring the MWO. “Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli has said there are still 10% of formal workers receiving wages below the minimum rate of RM1,500 per month. “Even though there seems to be some signs of economic recovery, Malaysia was not out of the downturn in May 2022, and even now. Smaller businesses are still not fully able to pay the minimum wage.” Syed Hussain said smaller enterprises often operate on tighter budgets and have limited financial resources compared with large corporations and face obstacles that can hinder their ability to afford higher wages for their employees. He said while efforts have been made to uplift wages and improve labour conditions through policies, government intervention is necessary to support the viability of microand small businesses. “The government should provide subsidies to micro and small businesses to help them comply with the MWO while also ensuring they can retain their employees. “Meanwhile in some jurisdictions, these businesses should be given exemption from the application of MWO to prevent adverse impacts on business viability, job creation and economic growth within these sectors.” Syed Hussain said policymakers must consider alternative support mechanisms to address the challenges faced by micro and small businesses in meeting minimum wage requirements without compromising worker rights and welfare. He said rather than resorting to punitive measures, employers who are struggling to comply with the MWO should be offered appropriate support and resources to facilitate compliance. “The government should assist the microand small businesses in adopting new technologies and enhancing the skills of their employees. “This can contribute to the long-term sustainability and competitiveness of these enterprises which not only strengthens the resilience of small businesses but also fosters economic growth, job creation and social inclusion within communities,” he said. Syed Hussain added that cash flow constraints present a substantial barrier for micro and small businesses striving to adhere to the MWO. “Addressing cash flow constraints is essential to support micro and small businesses in their efforts to comply with the MWO while ensuring the well-being of their employees and preserving economic stability.” Syed Hussain said MEF believes that there is an urgent need to broaden the definition of wages under the National Wages Consultative Council Act 2011 to include various payments employers may offer to improve total employee remuneration. “The existing definition of wages under the Act only considers basic wage and limits employers’ capacity to provide additional employee welfare benefits on top of the minimum wages. “Hence, there is a need to redefine wages to encompass all other forms of payments, thus arriving at a comprehensive total remuneration package,” he said. Early voting for KKB by-election tomorrow HULU SELANGOR: A total of 625 policemen and 238 military personnel, including their spouses, will cast their ballots tomorrow as early voters in the Kuala Kubu Baharu (KKB) state by-election. The voting process will take place at two early polling centres involving three channels, namely the 4th Infantry Division Regiment and the Royal Malaysian Police Academy Multi-Purpose Hall. The two polling centres will open at 8am and close at 5pm. Meanwhile, the Meteorological Department has forecast fair weather for the morning, with thunderstorms expected in the evening. The KKB by-election, polling for which is on May 11, features a four-cornered fight involving Pang Sock Tao (Pakatan Harapan), Khairul Azhari Saut (Perikatan Nasional), Hafizah Zainuddin (Parti Rakyat Malaysia) and Independent candidate Nyau Ke Xin. The by-election for the state seat was called following the death of its incumbent, Lee Kee Hiong, 58, on March 21 due to cancer. The electoral roll for the Kuala Kubu Baharu by-election has 40,226 registered voters. Meanwhile in Kuala Lumpur, two men, who were arrested for displaying the photo of His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia on a vehicle for the Kuala Kubu Baharu by-election campaign, were charged yesterday. Inspector-general of police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain said both individuals, aged 66, will be charged at the Kuala Kubu Baharu Magistrate’s court. – Bernama oCash flow constraints substantial barrier for micro and small businesses to conform to monthly salary ruling Tabung Haji given nod to continue operating Madinah Medical Centre MADINAH: Due to its exceptional track record in delivering healthcare services to pilgrims, Lembaga Tabung Haji (TH) has once again received authorisation to operate the Madinah Medical Centre for the third consecutive year. Madinah (Medical) director of operations Dr Mahyin Kudong disclosed that the medical centre at Roha Hotel commenced operations yesterday and is furnished with 33 beds, including emergency observation wards. Mahyin, who is also the state health senior deputy director for Perlis, highlighted that the centre is equipped with emergency medical care facilities, X-ray units, basic laboratory testing and support services such as physiotherapy and nutrition consultations. “The medical centre will be staffed by five doctors, including two emergency specialists, a public health specialist and an anaesthetist. The anaesthetist will also be responsible for monitoring and supervision if pilgrims need to be referred to Saudi Arabian hospitals. “TH is also opening two clinics in Movenpick Hotel and Emmar Royal Hotel, each led by a family medicine specialist assisted by two doctors,” he said at a press conference here. He added that the clinics’ scope of tasks includes outpatient care and initial emergency treatment, although critical cases will be promptly referred to the Madinah Medical Centre or Saudi Arabian hospitals if required. He indicated that the medical team would comprise a total of 53 individuals during peak periods, which includes six specialist doctors, 16 nurses and additional medical assistants, along with seasonal haj staff appointed by TH. He emphasised that although the medical centre will primarily operate during office hours, they will always be ready to serve pilgrims around the clock. Meanwhile, with the current hot and dry weather in the Holy Land, he urged pilgrims to take proactive self-care, as it is typical for pilgrims to experience symptoms such as coughs and sore throats, along with skin issues due to dehydration, which can lead to skin cracking and itching. “Moreover, many experience a reduced appetite due to mouth ulcers,” he said. Commenting on Covid-19, he said no specific preparations are being made since the disease has been declared endemic. – Bernama 2,000 expected at religious conference KUALA LUMPUR: About 2,000 religious and intellectual figures from 57 countries will participate in the most significant international conference of religious leaders hosted by the Asian continent commencing today. In a statement, the Muslim World League (MWL) said the International Conference of Religious Leaders titled “Promoting Interfaith Harmony among Followers of Religions” is a platform that will discuss several themes related to pluralism, tolerance, moderation, education, building bridges and inclusive commonalities. “The conference aims to emphasise the importance of religion in promoting world peace, consolidating solidarity among peoples, and exploring civilisational cooperation. “In addition, it will launch initiatives emanating from the Charter of Makkah and highlight noble religious values,” the statement said. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is scheduled to officiate the conference in the presence of MWL secretary-general and chairman of the Organisation of Muslim Scholars Sheikh Dr Mohammed Abdulkarim Al-Issa at Sunway Resort Hotel, Petaling Jaya in Selangor. – Bernama █ BYQIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI [email protected] Sarawak-Putrajaya ties crucial for state development KUCHING: The close relationship between the Sarawak and federal governments is crucial in efforts to advance the state in line with development policies, said Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Sarawak Tun Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar. He added that Sarawak requires a significant allocation of funds to implement various development projects and programmes. “I call on the federal government to continue providing sufficient development funds in line with Sarawak’s rights and status as a region,” he said at start of the first meeting of the third session of the 19th State Legislative Assembly yesterday. He called for the prompt restoration and implementation of Sarawak’s eroded rights agreed upon in the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63). “The restoration of Sarawak’s rights enshrined in the MA63 is very close to my heart. “We appreciate the federal government’s commitment under Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who formed the MA63 Implementation Action Council Technical Committee as a platform to discuss Sarawak’s demands.” – Bernama Syed Hussain said employers who are struggling to comply with the MWO should be offered appropriate support and resources to facilitate compliance. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUN Small firms struggling with Minimum Wage Order
TUESDAY | MAY 7, 2024 4 /theSunMedia FOLLOW ON YOUTUBE Malaysian Paper Optimise land to curb reliance on imported food: Economist BEIJING: Dependency on imported food items could be overcome by optimising land use to grow sustainable crops, said Bank Muamalat Malaysia Bhd chief economist Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid. He said vertical farming is suitable for urban areas as there are plenty of commercial buildings, while rural areas could use abandoned and heritage land to grow crops. He also said the agricultural sector needs to be rebranded by embracing new technology and generating a higher income to attract young talent, Bernama reported. Afzanizam said the country has been relying on foreign sources for domestic food cultivation, adding that various food items have been consistently below the 100% self-sufficiency level, resulting in the need for imports to meet domestic demand. He said the import dependency oReports reveal dependency on foreign commodities such as onions and chillies at 100% and 74% respectively Pulau Aman adopted as Madani village with RM2.5m allocation BATU KAWAN: The Public Service Department has adopted Pulau Aman under the Madani village adoption programme, with an allocation of RM2.5 million aimed at developing it into a tourist attraction and improving the living standards of its residents. “The department has identified several key areas (that the allocation would be used for), such as upgrading jetties, drains and playgrounds, refurbishing multipurpose halls and constructing a nature trail around the island,“ said Chief Secretary to the Government Datuk Seri Wan Ahmad Dahlan Abdul Aziz. “We will also carry out beautification enhancements, which will be implemented and completed this year, with an emphasis on facilitating the daily lives of the villagers.” He said the department also aims to make the island an art, heritage and tourism hub to help generate income and improve living standards. “The houses will be painted in vibrant colours, that is similar to a renowned village in Spain, to attract tourists and sculptures will also be installed at various spots,” he said, adding that infrastructure and beautification enhancements will be an ongoing process. He said the department is also identifying potential aquafarming and aquaculture projects to boost the local economy as well as human capital development programmes such as e-digital training, English and Mandarin courses. He added that in the 2024 Budget, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim introduced the Madani Village Adoption programme, that is aimed at providing basic facilities to bridge the economic and developmental gap between rural and urban areas. Pulau Aman is a traditional fishing village on a 116.5ha island, located approximately 16 nautical miles from Seberang Perai and 8km from the Sultan Abdul Halim Mu’adzam Shah Bridge. It has a population of 250 people, comprised of 47 families, and is accessible by a 10-minute ferry ride from the Batu Musang Jetty in Batu Kawan. Among its attractions are the oldest breadfruit tree in Malaysia, the 234-year-old Telaga Mas and the Ar-Rahman Mosque built in 1817. – Bernama Liaison key to fighting threats: Turkiye minister KUALA LUMPUR: Regional and global security cooperation is paramount to the preservation of global peace as the world faces multifaceted non-conventional security threats, said Turkiye Deputy Defence Minister Dr Celal Sami Tufekci. He said it is vital for neighbouring countries to cooperate in overcoming challenges, such as ploys of extremist groups and transnational threats such as pandemics and cyber attacks. “By working together to address these shared threats, we could overcome political differences and build a future based on human security and cooperation. We could transition from a world marked by division to foster collaboration and pave the way for a more equitable and harmonious future. “While global geopolitical rivalries appear to be intensifying, Turkiye remains convinced that the potential for cooperation is still strong enough to help mitigate global security,” he said, speaking as a panellist at the 7th Putrajaya Forum, titled Non-Traditional Threats and Emerging Technologies yesterday. The forum is in conjunction with the Defence Services Asia and National Security Asia 2024, and held at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre. It serves as a global platform aimed at convening policymakers, think tanks as well as defence and security agencies from the regional and global community. Celal Sami said transnational threats, conventional or non-conventional, might cause global ripple effects given the interdependency of the world. “The dispute erupting in one corner of the globe could have ripple effects, sparking tensions or triggering new conflicts in distant regions. For example, Africa was affected by the collapse of the Green Corridor Agreement, which ended after an increase in tension in the region.” – Bernama Career options for military veterans KUALA LUMPUR: Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia (UPNM) is set to offer military veterans and soon-to-retire personnel the opportunity to pursue careers in the railway sector such as communication and safety. UPNM vice-chancellor Lt-Jen Datuk Mardzuki Muhammad said the project, in collaboration with Asian Rail Academy Sdn Bhd, will commence shortly and it is targeting the recruitment of 400 retirees before extending the opportunity to soon-to-retire personnel. “The project aims to train veterans not only for employment locally but also in countries such as in Indonesia, Thailand and Saudi Arabia. “We also need to ensure a balanced approach in terms of vocational training qualifications, so they can effectively carry out the assigned tasks.“ Earlier, on behalf of UPNM, Mardzuki signed a Letter of Intent with Asian Rail Academy Sdn Bhd CEO R.A. Thiagaraja. – Bernama Perak-Penang water deal to benefit 30,000 GEORGE TOWN: The implementation of the Perak-Penang Water Project would not only benefit the three northern states in the Peninsula, but it would meet the needs of 32,993 users in the affected South Seberang Prai district in Penang. State Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said it will benefit the existing development centres, including ones in the process and those set to be established in the future. “The state government and Penang Water Supply Corporation Sdn Bhd welcome the latest development of the project, which was announced by the prime minister yesterday.“ “The prime minister also said the Perak government had agreed to provide water from the state via the Kerian Integrated Green Industrial Park to Seberang Perai.” – Bernama CUTE ATTRACTION ... An individual in a rabbit mascot costume interacting with visitors to Bukit Bintang Walk in Kuala Lumpur. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN level for all types of onions is at 100%, indicating complete reliance on external sources. Bank Muamalat revealed the import dependency figures for onions, round cabbage and chilli is at 100%, 55.5% and 74% respectively, as of 2022. As for mutton, beef and cuttlefish, it is at 91.5%, 85.6%, 70.6% respectively. “(The situation has) resulted in the country being vulnerable to changes in international prices and hostility from food-exporting countries, that could potentially cause a supply shock and exacerbate an increase in food prices. “The focus has always been on (agriculture), which is a commercial venture that would give higher returns. However, our dependence on imports needs to be reviewed.” He said addressing food security is a two-pronged strategy, that is to increase food supplies and availability as well as a cataylst to overcome poverty. In October 2023, an economic report by the World Bank disclosed the country recorded 6.2% of absolute poverty, higher than the 5.6% recorded in 2019. Malaysia University of Science and Technology research and innovation provost and economist Prof Geoffrey Williams said eradication of absolute poverty could happen overnight if regular cash transfers were provided to those in the hardcore poor category. He said the move could bring the incomes of individuals in that category above the poverty line, adding that the country has been successful with this strategy. “The eradication is based on direct cash transfers and other direct assignments to targeted households.” He said direct cash transfers do not cost a great deal and could be incorporated and paid from existing subsidies budgets. “It would be cheaper than the current subsidies. A RM500 monthly transfer to B40 households would cost RM17.5 billion per year. This would incorporate the existing ‘bantuan’ (help) schemes. “So, taking existing budgets and using Padu to target recipients is affordable to run a universal basic income.“
TUESDAY | MAY 7, 2024 5 Blogger fails in bid to have charges dropped KUALA LUMPUR: The prosecution has dismissed a representation submitted by blogger Sang Kelembai to drop charges against him related to making and initiating malicious claims about vaccine procurement via a Facebook post. DPP Nurilya Ellyna Nor Azmal informed the Sessions Court that Datuk Abd Zarin Mohd Yasin, 72, submitted the representation to the Kuala Lumpur Prosecution Unit. “The representation has been dismissed and the matter has been communicated to the defence via email.“ Abd Zarin’s lawyer Datuk Abu Bakar Isa Ramat said they would submit a second representation to the Attorney-General’s Chambers this week. Judge Siti Aminah Ghazali scheduled July 4 for case mention to determine the status of the second representation and set Aug 12 for trial. Abu Bakar told reporters that the first representation was submitted on March 27 and the decision was received on April 23. Abd Zarin is accused of committing the offence via the Facebook account “Zaharin Mohamad Yasin” at 2.03am on Dec 21, 2020. The post was read at the Health Ministry in Putrajaya at 3.00pm on Dec 22, 2020 and violates the provisions of Section 233(1)(a) of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, which is punishable by a maximum fine of RM50,000, imprisonment of up to one year, or both, and an additional fine of RM1,000 for each day the offence continues after conviction. – Bernama Three dead, four injured in 4WD crash MIRI: Three individuals were killed and four others injured when the four-wheel drive they were in veered off the road and crashed near Rumah Ngindang at Km116 of Jalan Suai-Niah on Saturday evening. A Sarawak Fire and Rescue Operations Centre spokesman said a distress call was received at 6.55pm and the Emergency Medical Rescue Service and teams from the Niah and Lopeng stations were deployed to the scene. “Two victims were rescued by bystanders before the arrival of the rescue teams.” The deceased were identified as Evelyn Shely Manyie, 26, Eddy Indau, 26, and Jenging Tinsok, 39. The injured comprised Garry Galviston Mantau, 34, Kulam Letan, 26, Scrivia J. Sylvester, 39, and Evva Shakilla Bandai Evely Shely,three. – Bernama River trekkers killed in water surge tragedy LAHAD DATU: Three people were killed and three others reported missing in a water surge incident at a river in the Lembah Maksina area in Makuau, Tungku on Sunday night. A Sabah Fire and Rescue Department operations centre spokesman said nine individuals have been rescued. He said the deceased included a man and a woman, and the three bodies were found trapped under logs. “An operation to retrieve the bodies has been launched.” Fire station chief Sumsoa Rashid said a group of 17 was river trekking when the water surge happened. “We received an emergency call at 8.28pm and 11 rescuers were dispatched to the scene, located about 55km from Lahad Datu.” He said the search and rescue operation was suspended at 1.40am and resumed at 6am. Two of the rescued individuals were injured. Lahad Datu district police chief ACP Dzulbaharin Ismail confirmed receiving a report on the incident. – Bernama Hoping for memorable National Journalists’ Day KUCHING: A media veteran has expressed hope that the 2024 National Journalists’ Day celebrations slated from May 25 to 27 would leave a lasting impact on the journalism landscape in the country. Utusan Sarawak editorial executive adviser Kadir Dikoh said awareness on the importance of journalists in nation-building should be highlighted during the event and beyond. “I hope it can help reform journalism, not only here (in Sarawak) but also throughout (the country). There should be follow-up programmes, such as discussions between journalists and government departments.” The former Berita Harian associate editor said investigative journalism must be improved to reform the profession and for the media to contribute effectively to nation-building, Bernama reported. “Journalists could encourage authorities to give a bit of leeway and not be too reticent when asked for information.” Having been in the industry since the early 1980s, Kadir said journalists now face the challenge of keeping up with rapidly changing technology, which requires them to continuously update and upgrade their knowledge. He said the advancement of artificial o Event should facilitate journalism reforms, improve investigative reporting and emphasise importance of media role in nation-building, says industry icon intelligence (AI) could be one of the many challenges that journalists face, or a beneficial tool if they have sufficient knowledge to master it. “AI will be a highlighted issue during the celebrations, but I hope university media and communication faculties take a further step to introduce AI as one of their core subjects.” More than 1,000 media personnel and representatives from local journalist associations and Asean member countries have been invited to attend the celebrations, with the theme “Etika Teras Kewartawanan Mapan”. The event is an important platform for professional media fraternity and industry experts to exchange ideas and form strategic relationships. The largest annual gathering of journalists in Malaysia is organised by the Communications Ministry in collaboration with the Sarawak government, and Bernama is the implementing agency. Road tax renewal service optional, says firm KUALA LUMPUR: BJAK Sdn Bhd (BJAK), an online insurance aggregator, confirmed yesterday that its road tax renewal service is optional. The company said its primary service is auto insurance comparison and renewal, coupled with VIP services for its customers. While other platforms typically charge fees ranging from RM3 to RM11 for road tax renewal, BJAK has made the optional service complimentary. It had previously passed on any charges to official Road Transport Department (RTD) providers. BJAK’s free road tax renewal service is part of an initiative to make renewal more convenient and cost effective for its customers. The firm has acknowledged issues raised by RTD and is actively working with it to find a winwin situation that benefits consumers. It added that the free road tax renewal is part of a private initiative aimed at enhancing customer experience and is not affiliated with any government mandate or regulation. The clarification came after the Transport Ministry and RTD said they had not granted approval to BJAK to conduct road tax renewal transactions. RTD explained there is no integration between its MySIKAP system and the system used by BJAK. – Bernama OFF THE STREETS ... Perak police chief Datuk Seri Mohd Yusri Hassan Basri showing a huge haul of heroin seized from two local men, who are believed to have been involved in drug dealing activities since February. – BERNAMAPIC
TUESDAY | MAY 7, 2024 6 Sunway University hosts THE Asia Universities Summit 2024 BANDAR SUNWAY: Malaysia's emergence as a top-tier global education destination achieved a new milestone with the inaugural hosting of the Times Higher Education (THE) Asia Universities Summit at Sunway University, Petaling Jaya, which took place from April 29 to May 1. The summit convened over 600 global educational leaders, delegates and academics from universities across Asia, UK and US, including The Chinese University of Hong Kong, City University of Hong Kong, National University of Singapore, Monash University, North South University, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Toyo University, Macau University of Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, Nanjing University, Lancaster University and Arizona State University. Delegates were also welcomed to the annual summit by global icon and world-renowned chef, Gordan Ramsay, currently in residence at Sunway Resort Hotel. The theme of this year’s THE Asia Universities Summit was “Bridging Frontiers: Changing the Landscape of Education in Asia.” The topic revolves around how economic and employment landscapes continuously change due to globalisation, so there is a heightened need for universities to align their curricula with current industry needs. Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir, who officiated at the summit, said the ministry will continue to prioritise the development of students, and ensure Sunway Group founder and chairman Tan Sri Sir Dr Jeffrey Cheah (fourth from left) standing next to Zambry, accompanied by distinguished guests. that universities remain focused on their respective roles. The summit provided a platform for universities to showcase their achievements and engage in collaborative exchange of knowledge, skills and resources over 35 academic sessions. It emphasised the need for universities to equip graduates with the practical skills and knowledge, to enhance their job prospects, contribute to economic growth and positive societal development. As part of the summit, an outstanding gala dinner was held to host THE Awards Asia 2024 winners’ ceremony at Sunway Resort Hotel. The gala dinner, graced by Her Majesty the Queen Of Malaysia Raja Zarith Sofiah, was held in recognition of exceptional institutional achievements and celebrating the diverse excellence in the higher education landscape. In recognition of the success and significance of the summit, Sunway University president Prof Sibrandes Poppema, said: “We are honoured to host the THE Asia Universities Summit for the first time in Malaysia, at Sunway University. It is a great opportunity for us to highlight Malaysia’s academic and research excellence, and at the same time, foster meaningful dialogues with global institutions across the region. Together, we aim to bridge the current gaps of education and reimagine the educational landscape in Asia.” GEORGE TOWN: In response to the Penang Hindu Association (PHA) highlighting the irregular pricing of tomatoes at several retail outlets in Penang based on an independent survey carried out on April 30, the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry has urged consumers to use the “Price Catcher” app when shopping to compare prices and buy goods at reasonable prices. “The app was developed by the ministry and displays price information for over 400 goods collated by its price monitoring officers nationwide on a daily, weekly and monthly basis,” said its Penang director Jegan Subramaniam. “Through this app, consumers can save time and costs by comparing prices between different premises and plan their shopping by selecting premises that offer reasonable prices. Consumer empowerment is the best preventive measure,” he said. The ministry’s National Goods Pricing Division has also developed the “Price Alert” system to track price changes in the market. Daily monitoring is conducted at 41 public markets and 32 supermarkets in five districts, involving price collection for 41 types of vegetables. Jegan said while tomatoes were gazetted as one of the 22 types of vegetables listed under the Maximum Price Scheme for Aidilfitri 2024, with wholesale prices controlled at RM5.50 per kilogramme and retail prices at RM6.50, the price controls were no longer valid after April 19. “Based on monitoring reports conducted by enforcement and price monitoring officers nationwide on April 3, it was found that the price situation is stable. “The current prices are based on the prevailing market prices,” he said, adding that most hypermarkets have their own distribution centres that obtain supplies in bulk compared to retail outlets that procure supplies from wholesale markets. He also reminded traders of their obligations, among which were to display clear and easily readable prices that are accurate and not misleading, with the correct measurement units or scales, use of weighing and measuring instruments that have been certified, and ensure sufficient supply of price-controlled goods. “Legal action will be taken against any party attempting to make unreasonable profits,” said Jegan, referring to the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering Act 2011, Supply Control Act 1961, Weights and Measures Act 1972 and the Consumer Protection Act 1999. On April 2, PHA president P. Murugiah issued a statement detailing the findings of a price survey on tomatoes at six outlets. “Tomatoes at a wet market were found to be sold at a price 250% higher than those at other retail shops,” the statement said. The lowest price for tomatoes were offered at Jayam Spice Mart, at RM1.40 per kg, while the Bayan Baru Market, Batu Lanchang Market and the Cecil Street Market were selling them at RM3.50, RM4 and RM5per kg respectively. “PHA would also like to remind consumers to always check the prices, and to contact the ministry if the prices are found to be inflated.” International museum festival expected to draw 200,000 KUALA LUMPUR: Some 200,000 visitors are expected to attend the International Museum Day Festival 2024 online and in person at the Dewan Sri Pinang in Padang Kota, Penang from May 13 to 22. National Textile Museum director Tengku Intan Rahimah Tengku Mat Saman, who is also secretary of the national-level International Museum Day Festival 2024 main committee, said various activities have been planned to ensure an interesting experience for visitors. “Penang is the host (of the celebration) at the national-level this time. The festival will see the participation of 38 agencies, institutions as well as museums,“ she said. “It is indeed our hope at the Department of Museums Malaysia that the festival receives the welcome and support of the public, especially residents in Penang, as well as those from the other states such as Perak, Kedah and Perlis to come en masse to take advantage of this opportunity,“ she added. The 12-day festival features many activities, including sports events that will take place at Padang Kota and beach sports at Batu Ferringhi. Tengku Intan Rahimah said further information on festival may be obtained from the department’s official Facebook page and Instagram account. – Bernama oInformation provided on 400 types of goods to enable consumers to plan purchases █ BYT.C. KHOR [email protected] Use price-check app, public urged The information featured is collated by price monitoring officers nationwide on a daily, weekly and monthly basis. – SYED AZAHAR SYED OSMAN/THESUN
TUESDAY | MAY 7, 2024 7 ‘We must invest in building our own strengths’ TAIPEI: Taiwan is grateful for continued US security assistance but must invest in building its own “strengths” first and show the world its support for the island is worth it, Vice-President-elect Hsiao Bi-khim said yesterday. Hsiao, who takes office with President-elect Lai Ching-te on May 20, is Taiwan’s former de facto ambassador to Washington, and is expected to play a key role in further strengthening ties with the United States given her fluent English and deep ties in the US capital. The United States is Chineseclaimed Taiwan’s most important supporter and arms supplier, despite the lack of diplomatic ties. Speaking to a think-tank forum, Hsiao expressed appreciation for US President Joe Biden last month signing into law legislation to boost Taiwan’s defences, part of a broader package of assistance for Ukraine and Israel. “This bill demonstrates the US oTaiwan must show confidence that it is worthy of galvanising international support, says vice-president elect Philippines will not use water cannons, says Marcos MANILA: President Ferdinand Marcos said yesterday the Philippines would not respond in kind to China’s deployment of water cannons against its vessels, ruling out the use of “offensive” equipment as Manila asserts its sovereignty in the disputed South China Sea. Beijing has dispatched hundreds of coast guard and other vessels to press its claims over most of the vital waterway despite an international tribunal ruling that its assertion has no legal basis. In the latest confrontation on April 30, Manila said the China Coast Guard damaged a Philippine Coast Guard ship and another government vessel with high-pressure water cannons as the boats were bringing fuel, food and water to Filipino fishermen at Scarborough Shoal. “We will not follow the Chinese Coast Guard and the Chinese vessels down that road,“ Marcos said yesterday when asked if Manila US and Philippine soldiers fire M198 155mm Howitzer artillery during a live fire exercise against an imaginary ‘invasion’ force as part of joint annual military drills in Laoag on Luzon island’s northwest coast yesterday. – AFPPIC Indonesia proposes to cut payment for fighter jet project with S. Korea SEOUL: Indonesia has proposed to cut its share of payments for a joint fighter jet development project with South Korea to about one-third of the originally agreed amount, South Korean news agency Yonhap reported yesterday. Indonesia recently suggested to the South Korean government that it would pay about 600 billion won (RM2.09 billion) for the KF-21 joint fighter jet project, Yonhap reported, citing multiple unnamed government sources. The original amount due for Indonesia’s share of the joint fighter project was set to be at about 1.6 trillion won by June 2026, the report said. “In order to successfully complete the development of the KF-21 system, the governments of both South Korea and Indonesia are conducting final negotiations to resolve the current cost sharing issues,“ South Korea’s Defence Acquisition Programme Administration said in a statement to Reuters. Indonesia’s Defence Ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The KF-21 fighter jet developed by Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) in a project partially backed by Indonesia is designed to be a cheaper, less stealthy alternative to the US-built F-35, on which South Korea relies. Indonesia said it would receive fewer technology transfers from South Korea as part of its move to cut its financial contribution, Yonhap reported. In 2022, South Korea and Indonesia resolved a dispute over funding for the joint fighter jet project worth more than eight trillion won after Indonesia halted payment of its 20% share of the development costs. The Indonesian government’s latest proposal comes after South Korea police raided KAI’s head office in March in connection with two Indonesian nationals accused of leaking technology related to the KF-21 fighter jet project. – Reuters B R I E F SN. KOREANS TAKE ‘OATH OF LOYALTY’ SEOUL: For the first time since leader Kim Jong Un took power in 2011, North Koreans were asked to take loyalty oaths on his birthday, a South Korean research institute said, amid other steps the country is taking to solidify his rule. The loyalty oaths, which Reuters could not independently verify, were administered on what is believed to have been Kim’s 40th birthday on Jan 8, according to the South and North Development Institute, a Seoulbased organisation that released photos of the oath in an ornate folder on Friday. North Korea has never officially confirmed Kim’s birth date, and traditionally such oath ceremonies have been held on the anniversaries of the birthdays of his father and grandfather, the nuclear-armed country’s previous rulers. – Reuter CHINA INVESTIGATES SURROGACY CLAIMS HONG KONG: China’s National Health Commission said it was investigating a hospital in the southwest megacity of Chongqing for its alleged involvement in surrogacy, which is illegal in China, after wide circulation of the issue on social media. The incident comes after a series of official investigations last year related to the issuance of fake birth certificates at a time when China is trying to boost its birth rate. Chongqing Angel Obstetrics and Gynaecology Hospital has been cooperating with illegal surrogacy agencies, a post on Chinese social media platform Weibo said on Sunday. Surrogate mothers would use forged ID cards to give birth in the hospital and forged birth certificates would be made after the babies were born, according to the post, made by a user called Shangguan Zhengyi, who describes himself as a volunteer fighting child trafficking. – Reuters BODY FOUND IN WATERS OFF SYDNEY SYDNEY: Australian police said yesterday they had recovered a body after a man fell into the water off Sydney from the 2,600-passenger P&O cruise ship Pacific Adventure. Marine police retrieved the body of a man mid-morning, about 6.5 hours after the man overboard alarm was raised 10 nautical miles off Sydney Heads, police said in a statement. “Police will launch an investigation into the circumstances of the incident,“ they said, without giving further details. P&O Cruises said it had been a “distressing day” for guests and crew on the cruise, which was an Elvis-themed outing. “Our thoughts are with the family of the guest at this difficult time,“ it said in a statement.– AFP continuing commitment to supporting allies and partners in the face of geopolitical challenges,” she said. “But beyond thanking our international friends for their support, it is important that as Taiwanese, we invest in building our own strengths first,” she said. “Through our own efforts in building a resilient Taiwan, we must have the confidence that Taiwan is worthy of galvanising international support.” China has ramped up its military pressure against Taiwan over the past four years. Taiwan’s government rejects Beijing’s sovereignty claims. Hsiao and Lai, who have pledged to continue President Tsai Ing-wen’s defence self-sufficiency and modernisation programme, take power just months before the US presidential election in November. Former president Donald Trump, whose administration strongly supported Taiwan and is the presumptive Republican candidate this time round, has said US allies like European members of Nato have to spend more on defence and not just rely on the United States shouldering the burden. In the audience for Hsiao’s speech was James Gilmore, Trump’s ambassador to the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe, who is backing Trump’s election campaign. Before Hsiao arrived, Gilmore told the forum, run by Taiwanese think-tank Centre for Asia-Pacific Resilience and Innovation, that there was a “deliberate effort to inject fear” about Trump among US allies. “That Bill probably could have been stopped,” he said, referring to last month’s security assistance package. But Trump backed US House of Representatives Speaker Mike Johnson, who wanted the Bill passed despite objections from some Republican lawmakers, Gilmore added. “That would not have happened if we had a potential president there that was going to be a problem for our allies and for the rest of the world.” – Reuters would start using the water cannons on its own coast guard vessels to retaliate. “It’s not the mission of our navy or our coast guard to start or to increase tensions. We have no intention of attacking anyone with water cannons or any other such offensive (equipment).” Marcos added that “the last thing” the Philippines wanted was “to raise the tensions” in the disputed waters. A Philippine Coast Guard spokesman said on Wednesday that Manila’s strategy was to expose and seek international condemnation of Beijing’s behaviour in the South China Sea to encourage united efforts to ensure freedom of navigation in the strategic waterway. Last week, Manila summoned a senior Chinese envoy to protest “the harassment, ramming, swarming, shadowing and blocking, dangerous manoeuvres, (and) use of water cannons” by China Coast Guard vessels against Philippine boats off the disputed Scarborough Shoal. Manila and Washington have a mutual defence treaty, and the recent confrontations between Philippine and Chinese vessels have fuelled speculation as to what might force the United States to intervene. – AFP
TUESDAY | MAY 7, 2024 8 US$66m fine over ‘ghost flight’ scandal SYDNEY: Australian airline Qantas agreed to pay a US$66 million (RM312 million) fine yesterday after a bruising “ghost flights” scandal, following accusations it kept selling seats on long-cancelled trips. The country’s competition watchdog said Qantas “admitted that it misled consumers” by advertising seats on tens of thousands of flights, despite those flights being cancelled. Qantas will also fork out US$13 million in compensation to 86,000 travellers impacted by the cancellations and botched rescheduling. “Qantas’s conduct was egregious and unacceptable,” said Australian Competition and Consumer Commission chairperson Gina Cass-Gottlieb. “Many consumers will have made holiday, business and travel plans after booking on a phantom flight that had been cancelled.” Qantas said in some cases, customers were booked on flights that had been cancelled “two or more” days prior. Qantas chief executive Vanessa Hudson said the airline “let down customers and fell short of our own standards”. “We know many of our customers were affected by our failure to provide cancellation notifications in a timely manner and we are sincerely sorry,” she said in a statement. The US$66 million fine is subject to court approval. Long-dubbed the “Spirit of Australia”, 103-year-old national carrier Qantas has been on a mission to repair its reputation. It has faced a consumer backlash stirred up by soaring ticket prices, claims of sloppy service and the sacking of 1,700 ground staff during the Covid-19 pandemic. Qantas has previously defended selling seats on cancelled flights. It argued that rather than buying tickets for specific seats, customers buy a “bundle of rights” and a promise the airline will “do its best to get consumers where they want to be on time”. Qantas posted an annual profit of $1.1 billion last year, capping a major financial rebound after the travel turbulence of the Covid years. Veteran chief executive Alan Joyce announced his early retirement amid a barrage of criticism in September last year. – AFP B R I E F SMACRON SEEKS TO SWAY CHINA’S XI ON UKRAINE PARIS: French President Emmanuel Macron was yesterday to host Xi Jinping for a state visit, seeking to persuade the Chinese leader to shift positions over Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and also imbalances in global trade. Xi’s first visit to Europe since 2019 will also see him hold talks in Serbia and Hungary. Xi has said he wants to find peace in Ukraine even if analysts do not expect major changes in Chinese policy. Xi’s choice of France as the sole major European power on his itinerary indicates the importance the leader of the one-party Communist state of more than 1.4 billion people accords to Macron as an EU powerbroker over two years into Russia’s invasion. – AFP PANAMA’S MULINO WINS PRESIDENCY PANAMA CITY: Panama’s former security minister Jose Raul Mulino on Sunday stormed to victory in a presidential poll dominated by his old boss, the popular ex-leader Ricardo Martinelli, who buttressed his campaign despite being holed up in Nicaragua’s embassy. Mulino, 64, was one of the favourites for the presidency after he stepped in to replace Martinelli on the ballot when the former president was barred from running due to a money laundering conviction. Mulino said his government would be pro-investment and pro-business and said the Central American country would honor its debts, but also vowed to not forget the poor. – Reuters Bodies of murdered Aussie, US surfers identified TIJUANA: Relatives on Sunday identified the bodies of two Australians and an American shot dead in a suspected robbery in Mexico, authorities said, marking a tragic end to the search for the missing surfers. The corpses were found with bullet wounds to their heads, according to officials in crime-hit Baja California state, suggesting an execution-style triple homicide. The news confirmed the worst fears of the families and friends of Australian brothers Callum and Jake Robinson, and their American friend Jack Carter, who were on a surf trip to Mexico’s Pacific coast. The trio were believed to have been murdered during an attempt to steal their pick-up truck, state prosecutor Maria Elena Andrade said at a press conference. The vehicle, which had been burned, was found nearby. The state prosecutor’s office later confirmed that the bodies had been formally identified as those of the missing surfers. “The victims’ relatives were able to identify them without the need for genetic tests,” a statement said. Australian treasurer Jim Chalmers described the news as “horrendous” and said the “whole country’s heart goes out to all of their loved ones. “It has been an absolutely horrendous, absolutely horrific ordeal and our thoughts are with all of them,” the senior government minister said. Three suspects, two men and one woman, have been detained on suspicion of involvement in the case, according to Mexican prosecutors. One of those arrested has a history of violence, drug dealing and robbery, officials said. Investigators said earlier that the bodies were recovered from a cliff-top shaft in an “advanced state of decomposition.” Another corpse found at the site had been there longer and was unconnected to the others, officials said. – AFP Rescuers scramble to find Brazil flood survivors PORTO ALEGRE: Authorities in southern Brazil scrambled on Sunday to rescue people from raging floods and mudslides in what has become the region’s largest ever climate catastrophe, with at least 78 dead and 115,000 forced from their homes. Entire cities were underwater, with thousands of people cut off from the world by the floodwater, brought by days of torrential rains. In Porto Alegre, the capital of Rio Grande do Sul state, residents stood on rooftops hoping to be rescued as others in canoes or small boats navigated streets that have become rivers. After what one climatologist called “a disastrous cocktail” of climate change and the El Nino effect, more than 3,000 soldiers, firefighters and other rescuers were trying to reach residents, who were in many cases An aerial view of Porto Alegre taken on Sunday during an overfly by Lula over areas affected by floods triggered by torrential storms in the southern Rio Grande do Sul State. – AFPPIC o78 dead, 115,500 forced from homes in region’s largest climate catastrophe trapped without basic supplies such as running water or electricity. Civil defence officials said at least 105 people were missing in the latest of a string of catastrophic weather events to hit the South American giant. “It looks like a scene out of a war, and after it is over it will require a post-war approach,” Rio Grande do Sul governor Eduardo Leite said, flanked by President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and several government ministers. Lula promised the government would provide all necessary resources for reconstruction. Besides Porto Alegre, another 341 towns and villages have been hit by the flooding. Soldiers are setting up field hospitals after hundreds of patients had to be evacuated from regular hospitals, while civilians have also formed volunteer groups to gather basic supplies, including life jackets, water and fuel. “Everyone helps in their own way, as they can,” said Luis Eduardo da Silva, a 32-year-old volunteer. The Guaiba River, which flows through the city of 1.4 million people, reached a record high level of 5.3m, according to the local municipality, well above the historic peak of 4.76m that had stood as a record since devastating 1941 floods. “Rio Grande do Sul has always been a meeting point between tropical and polar air masses,” climatologist Francisco Eliseu Aquino said. “But these interactions intensified with climate change” to create “a disastrous cocktail that makes the atmosphere more unstable and encourages storms.” Rosana Custodio, a 37-year-old nurse, fled her flooded Porto Alegre home with her husband and three children. “During the night on Thursday the waters began to rise very quickly,” she told AFP via a WhatsApp message. “In a hurry, we went out to look for a safer place. But we couldn’t walk. My husband put our two little ones in a kayak and rowed with bamboo. My son and I swam to the end of the street,” she said. Her family was safe, but “we’ve lost everything we had.” Authorities scrambled to evacuate swamped neighborhoods as rescue workers used four-wheel-drive vehicles, and even jet skis, to manoeuvre through waist-deep water in search of the stranded. – AFP
TUESDAY | MAY 7, 2024 9 Move to secure Israel-Hamas truce remains elusive Hezbollah fires ‘dozens of rockets’ in retaliation for strike BEIRUT: The Iran-backed Hezbollah group said it fired “dozens of Katyusha rockets” at an Israeli base in the occupied Golan Heights yesterday in retaliation for a strike in Lebanon’s east. Earlier, Lebanese official media said three people had been wounded in an Israeli strike early yesterday in the country’s east, with the Israeli army saying it had struck a Hezbollah “military compound”. Hezbollah fighters launched “dozens of Katyusha rockets” targeting “the headquarters of the Golan Division at Nafah base”, the group said in a statement, saying it was “in response to the enemy’s attack targeting the Bekaa region”. Israel and Lebanon’s Hezbollah have exchanged regular cross-border fire since Palestinian militant group Hamas’s unprecedented Oct 7 attack on southern Israel sparked war in the Gaza Strip. In recent weeks Hamas-ally Hezbollah has stepped up its attacks on northern Israel, and the Israeli military has struck deeper into Lebanese territory. “Enemy warplanes launched a strike this morning on a factory in Sifri, wounding three civilians and destroying the building,“ Lebanon’s official National News Agency said. Sifri is located in Lebanon’s Bekaa Valley, near the city of Baalbek, around 80km from the Israel-Lebanon frontier. The Israeli army said its warplanes “struck a Hezbollah military structure, deep inside Lebanon,” referring to the location as “Safri”. Last month, a building in Sifri was targeted in an Israeli raid, according to a source close to Hezbollah, while the Israeli army said it had targeted Hezbollah sites in Lebanon’s east. East Lebanon’s Baalbek area is a Hezbollah stronghold and has been repeatedly struck by Israel in recent weeks. On Sunday, official media in Lebanon said an Israeli strike on a southern village killed four family members, with Hezbollah announcing retaliatory fire by dozens of rockets towards Kiryat Shmona in northern Israel. – AFP Palestinian children and residents at the site of an Israeli strike on a house, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Rafah on Sunday. – REUTERSPIC B R I E F SPUTIN ORDERS NUCLEAR DRILLS NEAR UKRAINE MOSCOW: President Vladimir Putin has ordered the Russian military to hold nuclear weapons drills involving the navy and troops based near Ukraine, the Defence Ministry said yesterday. Putin has upped his nuclear rhetoric since the Ukraine conflict began, warning in his address to the nation in February there was a “real” risk of nuclear war. “During the exercise, a set of measures will be taken to practise the preparation and use of non-strategic nuclear weapons,“ the Defence Ministry said. Non-strategic nuclear weapons, also known as tactical nuclear weapons, are designed for use on the battlefield and can be delivered via missiles. The ministry said the exercises would take place “in the near future” and were aimed at ensuring Russia’s territorial integrity in the face of “threats by certain Western officials”. – AFP UNIVERSITY TO RESUME IN-PERSON CLASSES LOS ANGELES: In-person classes resumed yesterday at the University of California, Los Angeles, college officials said, after they were moved online following clashes on campus between pro-Palestinian protesters and police. Demonstrations against Israel’s war on Hamas in Gaza have rocked US campuses across the country for weeks, prompting crackdowns, mass arrests, and a White House directive to restore order. UCLA said on Friday it had moved classes online after a large police contingent forcibly cleared a sprawling encampment. Clashes have also broken out between the protesters and pro-Israel counter-demonstrators. – AFP GAZA STRIP: Efforts aimed at securing an elusive truce in exchange for hostages held in Gaza were due to resume yesterday as disagreement between Israel and Hamas over demands to end the seven-month war intensified. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin oMediation efforts to continue as disagreement over demands to end seven-month war intensifies Netanyahu said on Sunday that “surrendering” to a demand to end the war would amount to defeat, while Qatar-based Hamas political chief Ismail Haniyeh accused Netanyahu of sabotaging the talks. Negotiations were due to continue yesterday in Qatar, where CIA director Bill Burns was expected for “emergency” talks on mediation efforts with Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani, a source with knowledge of the discussions told AFP. A Hamas official said on Sunday the group’s delegation for Gaza truce talks was headed to Doha for “consultations”, after the last round of talks in Cairo failed to produce a breakthrough. Hamas negotiators are then due back in Cairo tomorrow, said Al-Qahera News, a site linked to Egyptian intelligence services. In Rafah in southern Gaza, where about 1.2 million Palestinians have sought shelter, medics and first responders said 16 people were killed on Sunday in Israeli air strikes, hours after Hamas rockets killed three Israeli soldiers. Residents of the southern Gaza city told AFP they feared an upsurge in violence if truce talks collapsed. Netanyahu on Sunday also announced a government decision to close operations in Israel of Qatar-based news channel Al Jazeera, which has broadcast round-the-clock coverage of the conflict. It went off-air a short time later. The network condemned Israel’s decision as a “criminal act”, and said it would take legal action. – AFP Evacuation of Rafah begins ahead of assault RAFAH: Israel called on civilians to evacuate parts of Rafah yesterday in what appeared to be preparation for a long-threatened assault on Hamas holdouts in the southern Gaza Strip city where more than a million war-displaced Palestinians have been sheltering. Instructed by Arabic text messages, telephone calls, and flyers to move to what the Israeli military called an “expanded humanitarian zone” 20km away, some Palestinian families lumbered out under chilly spring rain, witnesses said. Israel’s military said it had begun encouraging residents of Rafah to evacuate in a “limited scope” operation. It gave no specific reasons. Seven months into its war against Hamas, Israel has been threatening to launch incursions in Rafah, which it says harbours thousands of Hamas fighters and potentially dozens of hostages. Victory is impossible without taking Rafah, it says. The prospect of a high-casualty operation worries Western powers and neighbouring Egypt, which is trying to mediate a new round of truce talks between Israel and Hamas under which the Palestinian Islamist group might free some hostages. The Rafah plan has opened an unusually public rift between Israel and Washington. Speaking to his U.S counterpart, Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant linked yesterday’s operation to the deadlock in indirect diplomacy, which he blamed on Hamas. “During their discussion, Gallant discussed the efforts undertaken to achieve the release of hostages and indicated that at this stage, Hamas refuses the frameworks at hand,” the Israeli Defence Ministry said in a statement. “Gallant emphasised that military action is required, including in the area of Rafah, at the lack of an alternative,” it added Yesterday, the Israeli military called on Palestinians in eastern parts of Rafah to move to a nearby “humanitarian area”, saying it would “encourage the gradual movement of civilians in the specified areas”. An Israeli broadcaster, Army Radio, said evacuations were focused on a few peripheral districts of Rafah, from which evacuees would be directed to tent cities in nearby Khan Younis and Al Muwassi. Many residents in Rafah said they had received telephone calls to evacuate their homes in the targeted area. In an overnight aerial attack on Rafah, Israeli planes hit 10 houses, killing 20 people and wounding several, medical officials said. Three Israeli soldiers were killed on Sunday in a Hamas rocket attack near Rafah, at the Kerem Shalom crossing into Gaza, while Palestinian health officials said at least 19 people were killed by Israeli fire. Sunday’s sttack came as hopes dimmed for ceasefire talks in Cairo, with Hamas reiterating its demand for an end to the war in exchange for the freeing of hostages, and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu flatly ruling that out. – Reuters
10 TUESDAY | MAY 7, 2024 @thesundaily FOLLOW ON TWITTER Malaysian Paper Or download app on the AppStore or Google Play ENJOY A SEAMLESS READING EXPERIENCE. Read our iPaper at https://www.thesun.my/ Pivotal role of economic partnerships AS geopolitical tensions escalate in the Middle East, the significance of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) for Malaysia has come under renewed scrutiny. With global trade routes potentially threatened, especially those vital for oil and gas, RCEP can be a crucial stabiliser for Malaysia’s economy. This agreement may buffer the nation from the escalating economic uncertainty that typically accompanies geopolitical strife, thereby maintaining stability in trade and investment flows. RCEP, the world’s largest free trade agreement, includes 15 Asia-Pacific nations covering about 30% of the world’s population (2.3 billion people) and 30% of global economic and trade volume. Since its inception, RCEP has been touted as a milestone that would lead to an increase in economic integration and support member economies. For Malaysia, which has been working towards enhancing its trade ties and reducing economic vulnerabilities, this partnership can significantly bolster economic resilience and growth, providing a strategic hedge against global economic turbulence. With the Middle East embroiled in new conflicts, the security of maritime routes through the Strait of Hormuz and the Suez Canal, critical for oil shipments, is increasingly uncertain. According to the International Energy Agency, in 2022, Malaysia imported US$12.2 billion (RM57.8 billion) in crude petroleum, mainly from Saudi Arabia (US$5.54 billion), United Arab Emirates (US$1.53 billion), Brazil (US$1.07 billion), Kuwait (US$513 million), and China (US$397 million). Disruptions in these supply lines can have significant ramifications for the country’s energy security and economic stability. This makes it imperative for Malaysia to explore alternative markets and diversify its trade to ensure a steady supply of essential commodities. The significance of RCEP is highlighted by its provision of varied trading opportunities for Malaysia, extending beyond the unpredictable markets of the Middle East. From January to March, exports to RCEP countries comprised 29% of Malaysia’s total exports, reaching around RM203 million. This statistic emphasises the agreement’s ability to reduce the risks linked to reliance on a single region. By enhancing trade ties within Asia Pacific, Malaysia not only shields itself from potential supply disruptions but also creates new possibilities for diversifying exports and enhancing industrial collaboration. Furthermore, RCEP enhances access to expansive markets such as China, which has a population of 1.4092 billion, and Indonesia, with 275 million people. Therefore, this economic integration can significantly benefit Malaysia as it deals with the complexities of global trade in the context of instability in the Middle East. The simplified trade rules and unified standards under RCEP are likely to improve operational efficiency and lower expenses for Malaysian companies, thereby strengthening their export potential. As RCEP continues to develop, its strategic importance to Malaysia is likely to grow, especially if Middle Eastern tensions do not subside. While the immediate benefits of RCEP are clear, the long-term impact on Malaysia’s economic landscape remains to be seen. As such, the country’s engagement with this monumental trade pact will be critical in shaping its economic future amid an ever-changing global context. To truly benefit from RCEP, Malaysia can focus on four strategic approaches: 1. Enhancing product standards to meet international benchmarks Malaysia can take advantage of RCEP by elevating the quality and standards of its products to align with international benchmarks. This involves adopting best practices in manufacturing, improving quality controls, and ensuring that products comply with the environmental and safety standards prevalent in other RCEP member countries. By doing so, Malaysian products can become more competitive and appealing in these markets. For instance, Malaysian electronics and agricultural products could undergo rigorous testing and certification processes to ensure they meet stringent quality requirements. This will not only increase their marketability but also potentially command higher prices. 2. Investing in sectors likely to see increased demand from RCEP countries Malaysia can identify and invest in key sectors that are likely to see a surge in demand from other RCEP countries. These include sectors like digital technology, renewable energy, and healthcare. By focusing on these areas, Malaysia can position itself as a vital player within RCEP, attracting foreign investment and creating new job opportunities. For example, the growth of ecommerce and digital services across Asia offers a lucrative opportunity for Malaysia’s burgeoning tech industry to expand its reach. Similarly, as more RCEP countries commit to green energy initiatives, Malaysia’s investments in solar panel manufacturing and green technology services could see heightened demand. 3. Fostering technological collaborations Engaging in technological collaborations with fellow RCEP With global trade routes potentially threatened, especially those vital for oil and gas, RCEP can be a crucial stabiliser for Malaysia’s economy. – BERNAMAPIC COMMENT by Goh Lim Thye members can facilitate the transfer of new technologies and innovations across borders. Malaysia can establish partnerships with enterprises and research institutions in countries such as China and Singapore, which are leaders in fields such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and fintech. Such collaborations can include joint research projects, technologysharing agreements, and innovation hubs where businesses from multiple countries work together on new technologies. These efforts can help Malaysian companies integrate cutting-edge technologies into their operations and enhance their productivity and competitiveness. 4. Developing human capital to compete effectively in new markets To fully capitalise on the opportunities presented by RCEP, Malaysia needs a workforce that is skilled and adaptable to the demands of a changing global market. This can be achieved through an emphasis on education and training in areas critical to the future economy, such as digital skills, language proficiency, and cross-cultural communication. Additionally, creating vocational training programmes that align with industry needs can ensure that the workforce is equipped with relevant skills, such as in advanced manufacturing and logistics management, making them more competitive in local and international markets. By strategically implementing these approaches, Malaysia can strengthen its economic position within the RCEP framework and ensure sustainable growth and resilience against global economic fluctuations. The writer is a senior lecturer at the Department of Economics, Faculty of Business and Economics at Universiti Malaya. Comments: [email protected]
11 TUESDAY | MAY 7, 2024 Stem rising tide of youth violence THE rising prevalence of violent behaviour among youths in our communities poses a significant threat to public health and safety. The frequency and severity of youth violence incidents appear to be escalating, leaving a trail of devastating consequences ranging from physical altercations to tragic outcomes such as homicide. Youth violence in Malaysia, like in any other country, is caused by multifaceted factors, including socioeconomic disparities, exposure to violent depictions in the media, family dysfunction and limited educational opportunities. Youth violence refers to any intentional physical or psychological harm inflicted by or upon young people, typically between the ages of 10 and 24. This can include behaviours such as assault, robbery, gang violence and homicide, occurring in diverse settings, including schools, neighbourhoods and communities. This violent behaviour is likely acquired through social learning or a combination of social learning and biological processes. Youths with violent parents often learn violent behaviour from them rather than inheriting it genetically. The trend of youth violence has been characterised by fluctuations and shifts over time, reflecting the complex interplay of underlying socioeconomic factors, cultural influences and policy interventions. According to the Statistics Department in 2021, the number of offences involving minors under the age of 18 was reported to be 4,886 in 2016. By 2020, this figure had risen to 5,342 offenders. The report highlights a concerning trend of increasing youth-related violence in recent years, especially in schools. Reportedly, Malaysian youths aged 15 to 30 years account for 9.1 million people, which is 27.8% (almost a third) of the total population in the country, underscoring the importance of effectively addressing this issue. Youth violence can result in deaths, injuries, disabilities and serious long-term health consequences, including mental health problems. Exposure to violence often disrupts a young person’s life and development, detracting them from becoming valuable human capital. Arresting the upward trend in youth violence is also in line with Sustainable Development Goal 16.1. The World Health Organisation reported that approximately 176,000 (37%) homicides occur among youths aged 15 to 29 years each year. Additionally, the homicide rate for the 15 to 29 age group was the highest among Malaysians in 2019, accounting for 4.3%. For example, the murder case from six years ago involving a marine cadet from Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia found dead with burn marks and bruises in an apartment. Similarly, just last month, a student from Lahad Datu Vocational College was beaten to death. These incidents, while most widely publicised, are not isolated. They exemplify the devastating consequences of homicide – the act of killing another person, which represents one of the most severe forms of violence. Factors such as poverty, lack of education, exposure to violence in the community or on screen and inadequate support systems can contribute to the perpetuation of youth violence. According to global statistics, violence-related injuries claim approximately 1.25 million lives annually, including homicides. Furthermore, injuries and violence are responsible for an estimated 10% of all years lived with disability. One poignant example is the case of a boarding school student who nearly became paralysed after being kicked in the head by another student. This incident not only highlights the physical dangers but also underscores the lasting impact on individuals’ lives and the ability to function in society. In light of these realities, implementing preventive strategies is paramount to mitigate the devastating impact of violence-related injuries on individuals and communities. Some of the effective approaches may include the following: Implement cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) Violent behaviour is often influenced by underlying cognitive distortions, negative thought patterns and maladaptive coping strategies. CBT focuses on addressing these harmful thought patterns and behaviours and aims to facilitate positive behavioural change. Integrating CBT into existing violence prevention programmes within schools, communities and rehabilitation centres is crucial. CBT can be incorporated into the curriculum through workshops or courses focused on teaching students effective coping skills, conflict resolution techniques and anger management strategies. For example, in Liberia, CBT has been successfully integrated into an eight-week curriculum that combines CBT-informed group therapy and one-on-one counselling. Similarly, in Chicago, CBT sessions have been conducted twice daily over around three to four weeks for male youths. These approaches successfully reduced the participants’ criminal and violent behaviour as well as readmission rates after release. Establish youth empowerment hubs Such a hub can serve as a coordinating body, enabling policymakers, relevant stakeholders, non-governmental organisations and local communities to collaboratively plan, implement, monitor and assess youth violence prevention efforts. The hub should aim to address the root causes of violence and build a safer environment by providing comprehensive support services, educational opportunities and empowerment programmes for at-risk youths. However, importantly, job training and retraining are essential avenues for empowering young individuals. Having lost many of our youths to a massive brain drain, Malaysia cannot afford to let the remaining ones fall into the trap of the “economics of crime”. Stopping youth violence demands our collective commitment, compassion and wisdom to implement practical measures that will foster a safer and more equitable world for our future generation. The writer is a research assistant at Emir Research, an independent think tank focused on strategic policy recommendations based on rigorous research. Comments: [email protected] COMMENT by Farah Natasya Charm of island living on Banika I WILL now take you around Banika and describe a typical day on the island. It is nestled in the Russell Islands group in the Central Province of Solomon Islands. From the office, you can see the undisturbed sea on a sunny morning. It is a pleasant drive along the shore in the Range Rover, with coconut trees leaning over the water and a rugby field on the right, which also serves as a golf course. Leaving that behind, you come to another part of the shore, a long beach that stretches some way. It is usually not suitable for swimming due to the strong winds causing high waves to build and crash with a roar. This is where you leave the sea and the road goes up a slope to the other side of the island. At Shark Point, the sea slams into the cliffs, sending sprays in the wind. Below, sharks would gather when we slaughter cattle every Wednesday for the butchery. The stockmen would bring the offal and heads, casting them over the cliff, and you can watch the fights below for the entrails. Turning inland, where more coconuts grew, cattle would graze, serving as weeding machines, with electric fencing to keep them in. The cattle-feed trial area is close to the place where different cover crops are planted and the cattle are weighed. You can see some lying among the Centrosema legumes, chewing their cud. Where the coconut palms are matured, the legumes did not grow, and other plants would try to grow, such as Siam weed, Chromolaena odorata, Lantana camara and the invasive blue rats tail, Stachytarpheta urticifolia. In many places, Solanum torvum (terung pipit), called devils’ figs, can spread fast, and have to be sprayed. I recognised the fruit – small round eggplants that I relish in Thai green curry. The islanders did not eat them as they had other food such as yam, bananas and pineapples planted on the slopes of an old volcano, which they supplied to the weekly market by the jetty. Along the way at Lingatu, by the cove, a finger of calm sea went up to the grass edge, and there is a pen for cattle before they are shipped to the market in Honiara. Further, you can pass the edge of a marsh, and the people know that apart from the shy blue and red swamp hens that hunted there, it was also a hiding place for crocodiles. For other unseen hazards, only the islanders would know. These spots were the sites of the world war battles and now only small clearings remained, with some lime trees that fruited heavily but no islander would dare to pick. They would not call each other when near the area in case the spirits would know their names. The island also had mature cocoa trees, growing under coconut trees for shade. If I came across a gang of harvesters headed by Baia, the bossman originally from Kiribate, I would stop to see how they plucked the pods with a pole and a hooked blade and bagged the wet beans which went to the fermentary by the jetty. Once a month, a cargo ship from Bankline would call and pick up the copra and cocoa beans. Usually, it was the 15,000-tonne Ivy Bank. It would be tied fast for three days, engines running softly, with the cranes loading cargo. I had been up the steps to the bridge, a cool sanctuary of quietness like a hotel presidential suite, with the wheel at the centre, next to the charts and screens with green and red numbers. Back in my office, at the end of the long white building, I would switch on the air-conditioning and the radio, playing island songs. With a press of the bell, Kamelo from the club at the other end of the building would bring my cup of coffee. The club was where management gathered after work to chat, play snooker or read from the library, watched over by the regal portrait of Queen Elizabeth II above the bar. I would light my pipe and pause to look at the in-tray. There would be only a few letters or brief telexes from the head office in London. If it was about management changes, pay or the next union negotiation, the key points would be in code. I had a blue book which had the answers. For lunch, I would drive up the gentle slope to the bungalow where John Debalemi, the cook approved by my wife, would have the table ready. The dining room near the kitchen, with a living room that led to a wing of three bedrooms and two wings would catch the sea breeze. For breakfast, he would serve fruits from the garden, usually a choice of grapefruit, mangoes, bananas, papaya and soursop. For lunch, he knew what to cook, getting the kingfish from the freezer or tinned sardines and corn beef from the larder that my wife had filled before she left. She had gone back to Kluang with young Anwar as two other children were at school. Her shopping was done in the Chinatown of Honiara. Near Honiara, on Guadalcanal, the company also had coconut and cocoa plantations, which extended to Red Beach, the scene of fierce fighting and a turning point in the Pacific War. The sand was for some weeks red but is now back to its natural black sand or grey volcanic pumice that washed ashore. At a place called Hell’s Point, a big underground store of bombs and ammunition blew up during the war, but not all the bombs went off. Some were recovered, together with the bones of American and Japanese casualties. The Henderson airfield was fought over, it was within the property but handed to the government. We were a large company in a small country. One of the plantations was in Kolombangara, a volcanic island in the Western Province, which was also rich in timber, and Unilever had a logging operation there under a subsidiary. In the south, many days away by ship, were coconut and cattle on the island called the Three Sisters. They were approachable by plane to Star Harbour and then by canoe in the open sea. The only entrance to the main island was a small pass at the reef. I was told that with the right timing and helped by a following wave, the canoe can shoot through and enter a calm and blue lagoon. I have to ride on that canoe and see that lagoon. However, it had to be put back for a few days as I received an invitation to meet Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II. The writer has extensive experience in the management of oil palm plantations. Comments: [email protected] Stopping youth violence demands our collective commitment to implement practical measures for a safer and more equitable world for our future generation. – SYED AZAHAR SYED OSMAN/SUNPIC E STATE MANAGERWRITE S BY MAHBOB ABDULLAH
HEALTH HEALTH 12 TUESDAY | MAY 7, 2024 Tertiary hospital in Bukit Jalil KEEPING the enhancement of living standards through the integration of wellness and healthcare in mind, KL Wellness City (KLWC) launched its flagship tertiary hospital through KL International Hospital Sdn Bhd (KLIH) last week. Targeted to complete its development in the second quarter of 2026, KLIH’s substructure works have already been completed, with the construction of the main building currently underway. The tertiary hospital will have 624 beds, with the potential expansion to 1,000 beds. It will also have state-of-the-art facilities to fit the grand vision of KL Wellness City as the premier location for healthcare tourism. “Last year, Malaysia recorded more than one million health tourist arrivals, representing a 15% increase compared to 850,000 people recorded in 2022,” said KL Wellness City managing director (Starting fourth from left) Seputeh MP Teresa Kok, Lee, Dzulkefly and Member of the Selangor State Executive Council (Women and Family Empowerment, Social Welfare & Care Economy) Anfaal Saari at the launch of KLIH, flanked by the KL Wellness City management team. oKL Wellness City puts healthcare at forefront with launch of 624-bed KL International Hospital █ BY MARK MATHEN VICTOR Safeguarding dietary supplements in Malaysia THERE has been a steady demand for dietary supplements propelled by this new collective awareness towards our overall well being. However, recent price hikes have raised the average living costs in Malaysia. For some, they may have to cut back on added expenses, which includes dietary supplements. This situation opens doors for devious, illegal activities to take place within the market, especially through e-commerce websites where counterfeit supplements are sold at absurdly low prices. For instance, a single joint support supplement may cost RM120–RM180 at pharmacies, but some unscrupulous sellers offer the same product for only RM38. Additionally, certain platforms and sellers may take advantage of unassuming consumers by offering attractive discounts and vouchers – further expanding this perpetual market of deceit in terms of people’s health and well being. Buyer beware: Dangers of the unverified The allure of a good bargain can be compelling, especially when one only needs to pay a fraction of the original price. However, the consequences of purchasing from unverified vendors or websites can be severe. A multitude of these sellers often operate without the necessary quality control measures. Without proper scrutiny, these unscrupulous vendors can easily pass off fake supplements as genuine, putting consumers at risk of ingesting unknown and possibly harmful substances. These products also may not follow proper standards of procedures, leading to higher chances of improper handling and contamination. In addition to the health risks, these unverified sources also undermine the integrity of Malaysia’s legitimate nutritional supplements market, which is valued at US$644.88 million (RM3.06 billion) in 2023. Certified brands are finding it increasingly harder to earn customers’ trust who have been victims to disingenuous sellers. Regulatory recognition: Protecting consumers In spite of these malicious activities, Malaysia upholds strict laws and regulations to govern the manufacturing and labelling of dietary supplements. This includes mandatory registration of documented evidence and stringent timelines for health supplements. While some counterfeit products may slip through the cracks, The Ministry of Health – via the National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency (NPRA) – has laid out various safeguarding measures to help consumers identify the legitimacy of a product. The Ministry of Health has also mandated that all certified health supplements must be marked with the holographic sticker called the FarmaTag, which is extremely hard for counterfeit producers to replicate. The sticker also includes an MOHissued QR Code, a gradient design, and holographic serial and pin numbers. Additionally, the Health Ministry has released a mobile application called FarmaChecker to help consumers confirm a product’s certification status online by scanning its QR code or typing in its serial number. At the same time, the NPRA continues to ensure the safety and efficacy of dietary supplements, mandating safety data for supplements with new or innovative ingredients. Similarly, the Malaysian Dietary Supplement Association (Madsa) has also worked hand-in-hand with the government to promote and increase awareness of health supplements and its benefits to all Malaysians. With the collective effort by both the government and consumers alike, we can work towards a future where all our nutritional supplements are safeguarded from the unethical practices of counterfeit producers. By being mindful of the sources of our purchases, especially when the products involve our health and well being, we can nurture a safe and healthy supplements market in Malaysia. After all, bargaining our health for cheaper costs will never be worth the price. Madsa advises Malaysian consumers to always make sure that online supplements have been registered by the NPRA. Check if the product has an MAL number, which verifies that it has been approved by the NPRA. If the product that is delivered does not have such identification, return and request for a refund and report to the MOH. This article is contributed by Madsa. CCC highlights nutritional value of palm oil THE Consumer Choice Centre (CCC), a non-profit consumer advocacy group, has shed some light on the health benefits of palm oil and its valuable role in enhancing the nutritional quality of food products. Despite misconceptions surrounding its impact on health, the CCC says palm oil offers numerous benefits and serves as a versatile and essential ingredient in Malaysia’s food industry. The CCC points out that palm oil is rich in tocotrienols, a form of vitamin E with powerful antioxidant properties which help to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. A study by Nutrition Society Malaysia has shown that palm oil contains Vitamin E known as tocols – comprising tocopherols and tocotrienols – as well as carotenoids, which are important components for healthy nutrition which supports heart heath, reduces inflammation, and enhances cognitive function, among other benefits. “We want to dispel the misconceptions surrounding palm oil and highlight its positive contributions to health and nutrition. Contrary to popular belief, palm oil is not harmful when consumed as part of a balanced diet. In fact, its nutritional profile makes it a valuable addition to food products,” said CCC representative Tarmizi Anuwar. Furthermore, palm oil is cholesterolfree and contains a balanced ratio of saturated, monosaturated and polyunsaturated fats, making it suitable option for individuals seeking healthy alternatives to hydrogenated oils and trans-fat, the CCC said. “Palm oil is widely used in food products due to its stability and versatility, making it an ideal ingredient for cooking, baking, and food processing. Its ability to withstand high temperatures without breaking down or producing harmful by-products makes it a preferred choice for food manufacturers,” Tarmizi added. Despite persistent misinformation, scientific evidence supports the safety and nutritional benefits of palm oil consumption. By debunking misconceptions and promoting factual information, the CCC aims to empower consumers to make informed choices about their dietary habits and food preferences. Datuk Dr Colin Lee. Lee expects the infrastructures in KL Wellness City, including KLIH, and its healthcare professionals who support the medical ecosystem to be a big draw in medical tourism. Present at the event was Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad, who has faith in the vision and goals behind not just KLIH but KL Wellness City in its entirety. “I’m seeing a strong commitment in investing and leveraging on ICT within the hospital, in its quest to be equipped with the first and best medical innovation including robotics in Malaysia. “KL Wellness City’s vision in creating Southeast Asia’s first township integrated with healthcare and wellness is commendable, especially as it aligns with the needs of our ageing population,” he said. The event also saw the memorandum of agreement (MoA) signing between KL Wellness City and six institutions of higher learning, with KL Wellness City committing RM25 million to the institutions to support the education of nursing students. The agreement also aims to provide 3,000 job opportunities due to the shortage of skilled nursing professionals in Malaysia, which is currently facing a projected 57.9% nurse shortage by 2030. “The sponsorship will cover the students’ education fees, living allowance and accommodation, assuring graduates five years of employment at KLIH upon graduation. The overall RM25 million sponsorship will be dispersed over a minimum period of five years and beyond,” Lee divulged. Located in Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur, with easy access to international airports, KLIH will feature 22 operating theatres, including provisions for robotic surgery and two hybrid operating theatres. By offering a wide range of medical services, from intricate surgeries to tertiary and secondary care, the hospital aims to attract leading specialists to enhance care and use artificial intelligence to minimise wait times for patients. Along with the MoA, KLIH will be pledging RM2 million in funds to support the medical needs of the B40 community in Malaysia, in line with the Health Ministry’s goal to serve the underprivileged community.
TUESDAY | MAY 7, 2024 Editorial T: 03-7784 6688 F: 03-7785 2625 E: [email protected] Advertising T: 03-7784 8888 E: [email protected] SCAN ME Manufacturing sector worst hit by ransomware in 2023 prey to its operations followed by ALPHV (BlackCat) and ThreeAM. Palo Alto Networks country manager Malaysia Sarene Lee said, “In Malaysia’s manufacturing sector, fuelled by a surge in foreign direct investment, operational technology (OT) innovation is reshaping the industry landscape. Yet, as automation revolutionises processes, we expect cybersecurity risks to escalate. We’re at a critical juncture where safeguarding OT systems is non-negotiable to ensure productivity remains optimum. There’s much to do to fortify Malaysia’s manufacturing backbone, ensuring the country’s economic progress isn’t undermined by cyber vulnerabilities.” In a developing and vibrant economy such as Malaysia, where organisations are adopting information technology and artificial intelligence at a rapid pace, companies are constantly grappling with significant cybersecurity challenges. These include a persistent skills gap in cybersecurity professionals and regulatory hurdles in adapting to rapidly evolving technologies. Organisations in Malaysia are becoming the focal point of cybersecurity vulnerabilities, with government entities, critical to national infrastructure, in urgent need of protective measures against persistent security breaches. As further evidence, when reviewing the number of compromises reported by r a n s o m w a r e leak sites, sporadic spikes were observed. These loosely aligned with periods where ransomware groups began exploiting specific vulnerabilities. Unit 42 analysed more than 600 incidents from 250 organisations for the 2024 Unit 42 Incident Response Report. This investigation went beyond ransomware leak site posts into the overall casework volume. While phishing has historically been a popular tactic with attackers, the report found that it is declining, but only sort of. From a one-third share of initial access incidents in 2022, phishing has dropped to just 17% in 2023. This indicates a potential deprioritisation of phishing as cybercriminals adapt to more technologically advanced – and perhaps more efficient – infiltration methods. More advanced threat actors are moving away from traditional and interactive phishing campaigns to less noticeable and possibly automated methods of exploiting system weaknesses and pre-existing credential leaks. “As threat actors become more sophisticated, exploiting vulnerabilities and adopting advanced tactics, it is imperative that businesses and government entities take proactive measures to enhance their cyber defences. The time to act is now,” said Lee. o Safeguarding operational technology systems is non-negotiable to ensure productivity remains optimum: Palo Alto country manager for Malaysia Initiative to spur adoption of solar energy in homes SHAH ALAM: The Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (Petra) has come up with the affordable Solar Boleh! initiative to enable more people to adopt solar energy in their homes, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof. Fadillah, who is also Energy Transition and Water Transformation Minister, said Petra is collaborating with Aeon Group, Bank Simpanan Nasional (BSN) and SOLS Energy to implement the programme. He said the programme, under the People’s Solar Transition Initiative (Solar@Petra Initiative), aims to encourage more people to benefit from the national energy transition agenda and that it is specifically designed to expand domestic users’ access to solar installation schemes and available financing facilities in the market. Fadillah said that through this public-private collaboration, solar installation subscriptions can be easily made at Aeon branches across the country, with special benefits offered to Aeon cardholders, such as earning double reward points. “In the past, residential solar installations were typically done by those who could afford it because the cost was relatively high. But with the Solar Boleh! programme, we believe more people will respond to the call to support the energy transition agenda. “This wider access is also supported by BSN’s solar financing facility for public servants, as well as SOLS Energy’s zerocapital method for domestic users, making solar installation more affordable for the public,“ he told reporters after launching the programme here yesterday. Earlier, in his speech, Fadillah said Solar Boleh! complements the solar rebate programme introduced by the government in early April, the Solar for Rakyat Incentive Scheme, which is currently being implemented by Tenaga Nasional Bhd. – Bernama Cendana Auto eyes light tactical vehicle exports to Brunei, Timor Leste and African nations KUALA LUMPUR: Cendana Auto Sdn Bhd, a 100% Bumiputera-owned automotive company, is eyeing several potential export markets, such as Brunei and Timor Leste, for its light tactical vehicle variants such as the fitted for radio (FFR) and weapon carrier. Its director, Abdul Rauf Nassiruddin, said these countries have shown interest in the vehicles, with the first export units targeted for the third quarter of 2024 if negotiations are successful. He said that several African nations, such as Tanzania and Sudan, have also shown interest in several variants produced by the company, which is fully staffed by graduates and trainees from local universities and colleges. “We have discussed with all these countries and they have shown interest. Now, we are waiting for their response,“ he told Bernama at the Defence Services Asia and National Security Asia 2024 exhibitions here yesterday. Apart from the FFR, Cendana Auto has produced other variants of the light tactical vehicle, including the high mobility SF-21X and a mortar transporter, which are manufactured and fitted in its factory in Semenyih, Selangor. Abdul Rauf said that, to date, the company has produced 20 units of the FFR for the Malaysian Battalion for its Lebanon peacekeeping mission and another 21 units for the Malaysian Army. He said Cendana Auto’s products have been tested by the Ministry of Defence and the Royal Malaysian Army and certified as meeting the standards set for tactical use. Proton’s April sales up 17% year-on-year to 11,025 units KUALA LUMPUR: Proton Holdings Bhd posted a 17.1% growth in April 2024 with 11,025 units sold in the domestic and export market versus 9,415 units in April 2023. As a result, sales for the first four months of this year came in stronger at 50,175 units against 49,702 units sold in the same period a year ago, the national carmaker said in a statement yesterday. Total industry volume (TIV) for the Malaysian automotive market grew to an estimated 59,100 units with a cumulative total of 261,345 units for the year, the statement said. Proton Edar Sdn Bhd CEO Roslan Abdullah said: “The slowdown in automotive sales in April 2024, when TIV shrank by 16.8% against March 2024, can be attributed to the long holiday period as original equipment manufacturers, dealerships and members of the local automotive ecosystem took time off to celebrate Hari Raya. “However, the sustained demand for Proton models is further bolstered by ongoing efforts in quality improvement with better Global Customer Product Audit scores since 2019, instilling greater confidence among drivers.” The company said Proton’s export sales volume surged 38.5% to 835 units against 603 units registered in the same period last year, with the Proton Saga model leading the pack with 427 units sold year-to-date, a 16% rise from 368 units last year. The Proton X50 model came in second with 176 units sold, while the Proton S70 model recorded 89 units in its only export market in Brunei for the first four months of 2024. Roslan said export sales remain a vital pillar to Proton’s long-term goals and with the Proton S70 model ramping up sales in the domestic and export market, the company is confident to achieve sustainable export growth this year and raise export sales contribution to its annual sales volume. “This year, we added Trinidad and Tobago to our export portfolio and reestablished our foothold in Bangladesh. The Proton X50 model regained the top spot for the B-segment of sport utility vehicles with 1,642 units sold in April, while the Proton S70 led in the Csegment sedans from January with 1,635 units sold in April with cumulative sales of 7,463 units this year. The Proton Saga model registered 5,031 units in April with year-to-date sales up by 8.8% to 23,278 units. – Bernama PETALING JAYA: Manufacturing is the most targeted industry for ransomware extortion in 2023 in Malaysia and the wider Asean region, according to Palo Alto Networks’ Unit 42 recently released Ransomware Retrospective blog and Incident Response Report 2024. According to Ransomware Retrospective, they studied 3,998 leak site posts from various ransomware groups. Leak sites are platforms where threat actors publicly disclose stolen data as a means of coercing victims into paying ransom. Unit 42 saw a 49% year-on-year increase in multi-extortion ransomware attacks from 2022 to 2023 globally. Across the industries, Lockbit 3.0 was the most active group, with 928 leak site posts accounting for 23% of the global total. Notably, within Malaysia, Lockbit 3.0 stood out as the main threat, with 12 victims falling Fadillah (second from left) launching the Solar Boleh! initiative. Also present are Aeon Co (M) Bhd managing director Naoya Okada (second from right), SOLS Energy founder and CEO Raj Ridvan Singh (centre), BSN CEO Jay Khairil (right) and Petra secretary-generfal Datuk Mad Zaidi Mohd Karli (left). – BERNAMAPIC
BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE TUESDAY | MAY 7, 2024 14 Airbus reiterates pledge to deepen presence in Malaysia PETALING JAYA: Airbus has reaffirmed that Malaysia is an important market for its military helicopters, defence and Space businesses, and expressed its commitment to strengthening its long-standing local presence. In a media briefing at the Defence Services Asia Exhibition and Conference in Kuala Kumpur yesterday, Airbus executives highlighted that Malaysia is a key customer base for the company across the commercial aircraft, helicopter, defence, and space product lines. They said Airbus, as a strategic partner to Malaysia, has developed From left: Airbus chief representative Malaysia Burhanudin Noordin Ali, Airbus Helicopters head of Asia-Pacific Vincent Dubrule, Stanley and Airbus head of Asia-Pacific, Airbus Defence and Space head of Asia-Pacific Zakir Hamid. oAerospace giant says country is important market and customer base across commercial aircraft, helicopter, defence and space product lines Net foreign buying of Malaysian equities surges to highest weekly total in two years PETALING JAYA: Net foreign buying of Malaysian equities surged to RM1.06 billion for the week ended May 3, marking a 3.6-fold increase from RM292.2 million in the week before. It was the strongest weekly net buying amount in two years, and foreign investors were net buyers every day, said MIDF Research. “The last time Malaysia saw such heavy inflows was for the week ended March 18, 2022, at RM1.18 billion,“ it said in a note. According to MIDF Research, foreign investors net bought RM451.8 million on Monday, RM184.3 million on Tuesday, RM43 million on Thursday, and RM376.1 million on Friday. It said the sectors that recorded the highest net foreign inflows were utilities (RM443.7 million), financial services (RM277.3 million), and telecommunications and media (RM140.4 million). Meanwhile, the sectors with the highest net foreign outflows were energy (RM22.4 million), plantations (RM16.9 million), and property (RM10.4 million). Meanwhile, MIDF Research said local institutions took a breather from their support for the local market when they net sold RM943.1 million last week, after net buying for nine straight weeks. They net sold every day last week, the firm said. The research house said local retailers sustained their net selling streak for the eighth consecutive week totalling RM112.2 million. In terms of participation, it said the average daily trading volume saw increases among all investor classes. Foreign investors led with an increase of 22.0% while local institutional investors and local retail investors saw surges of 16.7% and 6.7% respectively, it added. Bursa brings flagship investment fair to Kota Kinabalu PETALING JAYA: Bursa Malaysia Bhd will host its flagship Bursa Marketplace Fair 2024 at Suria Sabah Shopping Mall in Kota Kinabalu on Saturday and Sunday. The Marketplace Fair, to be officiated by Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor, is part of Bursa Malaysia’s ongoing efforts to promote financial literacy with knowledge in investing opportunities in various asset types offered on the exchange, such as stocks, exchange-traded funds, structured warrants, derivatives and even gold. The fair themed, “Invest Today, Harvest Tomorrow”, caters to investors of all levels, offering curated talks and activities to provide visitors with essential information on effective financial planning and wealth creation. In addition to capital market-related talks and engagements, there will be more than 10 booths including one set up by the Securities Commission Malaysia, and several participating brokers, with fun activities and games. Visitors can interact with industry experts through seminars and panel discussions on topics ranging from investing fundamentals to understanding the market landscape, and from technical analysis to aid in devising investment strategies. The event will also feature presentations from two listed companies – Keyfield International Bhd and Optimax Holdings Bhd – which will share their corporate insights and growth plans with the audience. Although Sabah, the third most populous state in Malaysia, has more than 3 million people, only about 30,000 adults (just about 1% of the population) have opened a Central Depository System account to take advantage of investment opportunities in securities offered by the exchange. This indicates a sizeable untapped potential investor base for Bursa Malaysia but, more importantly, the need for more Sabahans to kick start or diversify their investing avenues. Bursa Malaysia CEO Datuk Muhamad Umar Swift said, “Through Bursa Malaysia’s multipronged educative programmes, such as the Marketplace Fair, we hope to enhance financial literacy in East Malaysia and in Peninsular Malaysia. We are deeply committed to increasing understanding and participation in early stock investing, as well as tailoring our offerings to better meet the diverse needs of retail investors. “Last month, we published our most recent Malaysian Retail Investor Insights Paper, which provides useful information for the industry. We believe the retail investor segment will continue to play a significant role in enhancing market liquidity.” Banking sector’s year-to-date loan growth in line with expectations: AmInvestment KUALA LUMPUR: The banking sector’s year-to-date (YTD) loan growth of 5.4% annualised aligns with the projected growth range of 4% to 5% for 2024, according to AmInvestment Bank Bhd. In a research note yesterday, the bank said the industry loan growth expanded by 6% year-on-year (y-o-y) in March 2024 versus 5.8% in February 2024, driven by stronger growth in household and non-household loans. “Household loan growth was marginally higher at 6.3% y-o-y in March 2024 compared to 6.2% a month before, with sustained growth in mortgage and personal loans,” it said. The bank noted that non-household loan growth in March rose to 5.5% y-oy from 5.3% in February, mainly attributed to a stronger pace of financing to the transportation, storage, communication, finance, insurance and business services sectors. “Momentum for loan applications remained slow, but March 2024 saw an improvement in approvals of nonhousehold loans. Movement in the overall banking system loan approvals was negative 12.3% y-o-y in March 2024 versus negative 18.6% y-o-y in February 2024,” it said. Overall, the bank maintained a “neutral” call on the sector. – Bernama extensive and strong industrial cooperation that brought multiple benefits to the local economy. The aerospace manufacturer is looking forward to deepening existing partnerships and investments in the local ecosystem, which includes investing in a third helicopter full flight simulator in Subang, with plans to start operations in 2026, said the executives. In recognition of an uptick in Malaysia’s demand for new helicopter assets to strengthen its national defence and security, they said Airbus is positioning its capabilities to support this growth. “This is where the combatproven, multipurpose H225Ms can perform a wide range of mission requirements including special operations, combat search and rescue/search and rescue, and tactical transport. The Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) is one of the global operators of the H225M with 12 in its fleet, flying on military and humanitarian duties,” they said. With a need for the country to replace some of its older assets in the longer term, especially in parapublic roles such as law enforcement, the H135 helicopter is an ideal solution to meet those needs, said executives. Airbus also sees a potential to meet the region’s growing demand for increased capabilities, and a renewal of legacy military transports. This is where the company is well-positioned to offer Malaysia a strong A400MC295 mixed fleet to support both strategic and tactical requirements. The A400M is already supporting Malaysia’s strategic airlift needs with four in RMAF’s service, while the C295 (a medium tactical transport aircraft) can play a complementary role to the A400M. On space, Airbus’ long-standing partnership with the Malaysian Space Agency has grown strongly since 1998, covering areas including satellite imagery, systems and services. “Airbus has had a long and fruitful relationship with various Malaysian stakeholders. As the region’s aerospace sector is set to grow even further, we look forward to increasing our local presence and partnerships,” said Airbus AsiaPacific president Anand Stanley.
BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE TUESDAY | MAY 7, 2024 15 Education remains an important pillar of Malaysian society; it equips students with the skills needed to become productive and useful members of society. We invite you to showcase the best of education and the difference your institution has brought to the education landscape. Education matters so join us in 2024! Contact us now for special deals on digital, video and print advertising. Malaysian Paper 03-7784 6688 [email protected] Aeon Bank, Visa to roll out digital payments card KUALA LUMPUR: Aeon Bank, Malaysia’s first Islamic digital bank, has partnered with Visa, a world leader in digital payments, to transform local consumers’ experience in digital payments and cashless transactions in Malaysia. The partnership will kickstart with the rollout of Aeon Bank x Visa Debit Card-i and will soon be expanded to include various digital payment solutions geared towards the growing interests of Malaysian consumers that are looking for safe and reliable cashless transactions and digital banking solutions that adhere to syariah banking principles. “Aeon at large and Visa have a long history of impactful partnerships. Therefore, Aeon Bank is excited to partner with Visa and optimise their innovative capabilities in providing secure, easily accessible and convenient banking solutions to meet the demand of local consumers in Malaysia. This would enable our customers to enjoy wide-ranging benefits through Visa’s broad network of merchants and partners while making it possible for us to offer syariah-compliant solutions to Malaysians from all walks of life,“ said Aeon Bank (M) Bhd CEO Raja Teh Maimunah. Visa, meanwhile said in a statement that it is pleased to embark on this new journey with a digital bank like Aeon Bank, as it combines Visa’s global experience in digital payment technology with Aeon Group’s broader retail and finance ecosystem that reaches out to an extensive customer base, hence spurring an integration of value-added, seamless digital payment solutions that meet the needs of modern consumers across the omnichannel landscape. “The payments industry, consumer demands and payment technologies are evolving faster than ever. We are excited to partner with Aeon Bank and this strategic partnership will enable us to evolve with the changing landscape. By developing the next generation of products and solutions, delivering on our purpose of uplifting everyone, everywhere – we are proud to support the next phase of growth for Aeon Bank and transform the way Malaysians pay and be paid,“ said Ng Kong Boon, Visa country manager for Malaysia. KAB in mood for expansion KUALA LUMPUR: Sustainable energy solutions specialist Kinergy Advancement Bhd (KAB) continues to ride on aggressive growth, as proven by its record-high profit after tax (PAT) in FY23, its robust orders of almost RM1 billion by end-2023 and the fact that its concession assets have more than doubled in just a year. These achievements, alongside pending tenders of RM3 billion, put the group on the right track for better growth in FY24. In FY23, KAB achieved a milestone with the completion of its rebranding initiative, with the unveiling of a new company name and logo. This strategic update reflects KAB’s longstanding vision, which was established in 2018 to pivot towards a robust focus on SES, enhancing its positioning and identity within the regional energy sector. The Sustainable Energy Solutions (SES) division will continue to be the major growth driver for KAB across Clean Energy Generation (CE), Renewable Energy Generation (RE), and Energy-Efficient (EE) solutions. Under this division, KAB now manages 27 projects and has an expanding geographical presence in Southeast Asia, namely Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines. Notably, the number of concession assets increased from six to 14 as of Dec 31, 2023, compared to the previous year’s end. These assets include diverse energy solutions such as co-generation plants, waste heat recovery facilities, solar PV systems, a biogas plant, and a mini-hydro plant. KAB executive deputy chairman/group managing director Datuk Lai Keng Onn said, “Our strategic pivot towards becoming a focused energy solutions provider has started to yield substantial dividends. The foresight in expanding our SES initiatives has positioned us strongly within the rapidly evolving global energy market, perfectly aligning with Malaysia’s National Energy Transition Roadmap and broader sustainability targets.” In FY23, KAB’s focused efforts have started bearing fruit, leading to substantial gains, with FY24 projected to witness another major leap. The successful deployment of multiple prospects for the SES segment promises a Sustainable Energy Solutions division remains key growth driver for KAB, focusing on Clean Energy Generation, Renewable Energy Generation, and Energy-Efficient solutions. - KAB WEBSITE oGroup currently manages 27 projects and has an expanding presence in Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines continued upward trajectory. Particularly noteworthy is the ongoing 52 MW gas engine power plant project at the Sipitang Oil & Gas Industrial Park, slated for completion in 2026. This project’s joint venture with Petronas Gas Bhd’s unit Sipitang Utilities Sdn Bhd will establish the country’s largest gas engine power plant, a monumental advancement in the local energy sector. Adding to its strategic initiatives, KAB has recently signed an MoU with LCS Holdings Co Ltd to explore a 20 MW solar farm development in the Philippines and has proposed the acquisition of shares in Tunjang Tenaga Sdn Bhd for a 9.6 MW hydro plant in Kedah. These projects are aligned with global investment trends, which, as highlighted by the International Renewable Energy Agency, will require substantial capital infusion into renewables and energy efficiency to meet 2050 objectives. In FY23, KAB’s concerted efforts began bearing fruit: revenue increased to RM199.4 million, up 6.6% from RM187 million in the previous year; gross profit rose to RM41.4 million, marking a 47.5% increase from RM28.1 million; and a record PAT of RM27.6 million, which soared by an impressive 862.6% from RM2.87 million in FY22. “These figures represent significant year-onyear growth, driven by our strategic repositioning and dedication to the SES sector. FY24 is expected to mark another significant leap forward, with the realisation of multiple prospects within the SES segment,” said Lai. Kenanga Trustees makes debut, offers wealth preservation solutions KUALA LUMPUR: Kenanga Investors Bhd, an asset and wealth management company, launched Kenanga Trustees Bhd, a move towards becoming a one-stop wealth planning centre that enhances, preserves, and facilitates the seamless transfer of wealth to succeeding generations. “The launch of Kenanga Trustees is a cornerstone in our strategy to expand Kenanga Investors’ array of services and capabilities. The current market landscape shows a clear demand for more sophisticated financial solutions, and with Kenanga Trustees, we are enhancing our ability to meet these needs comprehensively, fulfilling immediate financial management as well as long-term legacy planning objectives. Our vision encompasses a future where we are the preferred hub for all wealth management needs, integrating investment solutions with innovative trust and estate planning services,” said Kenanga Investors executive director and CEO Datuk Wira Ismitz Matthew De Alwis. As a wholly owned subsidiary of Kenanga Investors, Kenanga Trustees inherits Kenanga Investors’ clients. The establishment of Kenanga Trustees is also timely, aligning with the significant wealth transfer currently taking place in Asia, particularly in families where the second generation is taking over. With the rapid growth of high-net-worth individuals in Malaysia, the new entity is strategically positioned to address the sophisticated financial needs of these clients.
BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE TUESDAY | MAY 7, 2024 16 /thesundaily FOLLOW ON FACEBOOK Malaysian Paper JAKARTA: Indonesia’s economic growth in the first quarter beat expectations, buoyed by high public spending for elections, but maintaining the strong pace will be challenging due to global developments and tight local monetary conditions. Southeast Asia’s largest economy grew by 5.11% on a yearly basis in the January-March period, the highest growth rate in three quarters. Growth exceeded the 5% rate expected by economists polled by Reuters and the 5.04% achieved in the fourth quarter. In the first three months of 2024, campaign expenditure for the Feb 14 election and higher household spending during the holy month of Ramadan, which started in March, bolstered economic activity. That helped offset the hit that Indonesia’s economy has taken from declining commodity exports in the past year. The resource-rich country is the world’s biggest exporter of thermal coal, palm oil and nickel, among other commodities. Some economists said the election and Ramadan spending gains are one-off factors. Going forward, higher-for-longer US interest rates, Middle East tensions, as well as Indonesia’s own rate hiking cycle – totalling 275 basis points from mid-2022 to April this year – are clouding the growth outlook. “We think the economy is set to struggle over the coming quarters as high interest rates, lower commodity prices and below-trend global growth, weigh on demand,” said Capital Economics economist Gareth Leather, who predicts full-year 2024 growth of 4.5%. Rate hikes by Bank Indonesia (BI) included a surprise move last month to step up support for the rupiah currency , which has fallen to four-year lows amid global market volatility. DBS Bank economist Radhika Rao said the strong first-quarter data reaffirmed her view that BI would keep the door open to further tightening should the rupiah fall further. “Firm growth will allow the BI to stay focused on price and FX stability,” she said, predicting 5% full-year growth. The rupiah has recovered some of its losses against the dollar in the past few days, after the US Federal Reserve indicated it would maintain a dovish tilt. The first-quarter growth rate was slower than the government’s forecast of 5.17%. For 2024, the government is targeting growth of 5.2%, up from 5.05% last year. In the first quarter, government spending jumped nearly 20% annually in the first quarter, versus a growth rate of just 2.81% in the previous three months, with higher spending for election and welfare programmes to help the poor cope with high food prices. Household spending grew 4.91% on a yearly basis, compared to a 4.47% expansion in the previous quarter. Household consumption makes up over half of Indonesia’s GDP. Investment growth, however, slipped to 3.79% in January-March, from 5.02% in the fourth quarter. – Reuters Aussie treasurer to chart ‘responsible’ middle path SYDNEY: Australia Treasurer Jim Chalmers said yesterday the government would chart a responsible middle path in the Budget that will be handed down next week, putting a second surplus within reach despite more spending measures. The Treasury has said that it would bank 95% of additional revenue to avoid adding to the country’s inflation challenge, but that the spending measures in the Budget would be “unavoidable” and “all warranted” amid high costs of living. “This is not the time for scorched-earth austerity. It would not be wise – when people are doing it tough and when the economy is soft – for us to slash and burn in this Budget,“ Chalmers said at a news conference. “We’re charting a responsible middle path. We’re striking the right balance in the Budget that we will hand down in eight days time.” The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) faces a daunting task to get inflation back on target, and a surprisingly strong first quarter inflation report showed there was more work to do. Markets are wagering the RBA will keep interest rates steady at 4.35% today, but there is a 40% probability that the central bank may have to raise rates to 4.6% by September. The Labour government is expected to report a Budget surplus on May 14, which will feature the government’s revamped stage three tax cuts, aimed at giving every Australian some tax relief. It will unveil more spending to fund the “Future made in Australia Act”, a subsidy programme to help the giant commodity exporter bolster domestic manufacturing and promote industries. – Reuters Indonesia’s Q1 GDP growth beats forecasts oElection, Ramadan boost spending but outlook uncertain India’s six-week election leaves central bank with liquidity dilemma MUMBAI: India’s central bank is stepping in to ease banking system liquidity conditions as a national election which stretches over six weeks is hurting government spending despite strong tax collections. Voting in India’s national elections began on April 19 and will conclude on June 1, with counting on June 4. Typically, government spending slows during polls and picks up only after a new government is in place and a Budget is presented. Last Friday, the government announced a surprise buyback of bonds worth 400 billion rupees (RM22.7 billion), which will infuse funds into the banking system. Yields on bonds maturing in 2-5 years fell 3-5 basis points yesterday. Longer-term yields also cooled. The buyback of securities is a liquidity injecting tool, and will help in easing liquidity in the system, a source familiar with the government’s thinking said. India’s average banking system liquidity has been in deficit since April 20 and is expected stay in deficit or close to neutral this month, according to economists. “The buyback announcement could be an exercise to infuse liquidity because we have an interim budget and the general election, so the government expenditure is lesser than usual,” said Gaura Sen Gupta, India economist at IDFC First Bank. In April to June 2023, government spending was 2.78 trillion rupees, and stood at 1.75 trillion rupees in the same period a year before, according to Equirus Group economist Anitha Rangan. “This year, April-June spending would be significantly lower than that due to elections.” India’s central bank has also stepped up short-term liquidity infusions. Since mid-April, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has infused 1.7 trillion rupees via variable rate repo auctions, Citi economists said in a note. “The RBI might be anticipating that the election-related delayed decision-making in the government might constrain spending and in turn cause further liquidity tightness,” they said. The central bank’s dividend is likely to be transferred to the government this month but spending may be delayed due to the elections, Citi said. – Reuters Manila looking at overseas bond offering MANILA: The Philippines is looking to issue overseas bonds within the first half of this year to support the government’s spending programme, Finance Secretary Ralph Recto said yesterday. The Treasury bureau is timing the market, he told reporters, adding that bulk of the overseas bond offering will be in dollars but the country is open to issuing bonds in other foreign currencies. “We will have to start borrowing commercially in foreign exchange.” The Philippines, one of Asia’s most-active sovereign bond issuers, plans to source 75% of borrowings domestically, with the remaining 25% from offshore investors. It regularly taps local and foreign debt markets to help finance its budget deficit. In November, the country raised US$1 billion (RM4.7 billion) from its maiden sale of sukuk or Islamic bonds. It secured US$1.26 billion by offering onshore US dollar-denominated retail bonds in October. – Reuters Cyclists attending an event during a car-free day in Jakarta. – AFPPIC
BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE TUESDAY | MAY 7, 2024 17 Frugal tourists replace big spenders in HK Li posing with a water bottle in Hong Kong. – REUTERSPIC HONG KONG: Cost-conscious China tourists have replaced many of the cash-rich mainland travellers who once flocked to Hong Kong, with some only interested in free walking tours of the city and staying across the border in Shenzhen overnight to save money. During China’s Labour Day holiday last week, Laura Li, 28, and her cousin Diego Deng, 20, from northeastern Liaoning province, were among the younger visitors to Hong Kong who preferred to follow walking guides on social media rather than join tour groups or shop in luxury stores. The Chinese social media platform Xiaohongshu, also known as Little Red Book, is the must-have app for China’s Generation Z – the 280 million people born between 1995 and 2010 – to explore Hong Kong neighbourhoods and offers travel tips to tourists. “Personally, I don’t like to be with tour groups because the degree of freedom is too low,” Li said outside the Yau Ma Tei Police Station, a neo-classical Edwardian-style building that has featured in local TV dramas and films and is popular with mainland tourists. “I prefer the kind of aimless city walk.” Daniel Leung, an assistant professor at Hong Kong Polytechnic University’s school of hotel and tourism management, said the shift in travel and spending habits was mainly due to a slow economic recovery in mainland China. “The China economy’s recovery speed was not as good as we expected. “When people utilise their disposable income, they now become more cautious.” The low-budget travellers coming to Hong Kong from mainland China contrast with the once cash-rich and luxury-spending mainland tourists who used to visit the city in the years before the pandemic. Coupled with a surge in Hong Kong people travelling to the mainland for shopping and oShift mainly due to slow economic recovery in China: Don entertainment, where many say products and food are cheaper and the service is better, the financial hub is struggling to bounce back after a three-year Covid-19 lockdown. Catering sector representative Simon Wong told local media that restaurants saw 10% less business than usual during the May 1 public holiday, traditionally a busy period for Hong Kong. Underscoring the now costconscious new type of mainland tourist, Li and her cousin opted to stay in a hotel in the southern Chinese city of Shenzhen, just across the border, and travel back to Hong Kong to take in the sights during the day. “For the same price, I can stay in a hotel in Shenzhen with a better environment, more space, and better service. It only took me around one hour to arrive here,” Li said. She said they spent about HK$500 Foxconn reiterates revenue to grow TAIPEI: Taiwan’s Foxconn, the world’s largest contract electronics maker and the biggest assembler of Apple’s iPhone, reiterated on Sunday it expected a rise in second-quarter revenue and reported record sales for the month of April. Foxconn said in a statement that this year’s second quarter “remains a traditional off-peak season, and major products are entering a period of transition between old and new products”. “The operations outlook for the second quarter is expected to show both quarter-on-quarter and year-on-year growth”. The statement did not elaborate and the company does not give numerical guidance. The company, formally called Hon Hai Precision Industry Co Ltd, said April revenue reached T$510.9 billion (RM75 billion), which it said was the highest figure on record for the same period and represented an on-year rise of 19%. Revenue in its smart consumer electronics products, including smartphones, last month showed “significant growth” year-on-year, it said. Strong artificial intelligence (AI) server demand also delivered “strong growth” in April on-year for its cloud and networking products segment, the company added. The monthly sales data comes ahead of Foxconn’s first-quarter earnings call on May 14. Foxconn has previously reported that for the first quarter, revenue slid 9.6% year-on-year to T$1.322 trillion, underperforming a T$1.401 trillion LSEG SmartEstimate, which gives greater weight to forecasts from analysts who are more consistently accurate. The first quarter is traditionally quieter than the previous one, the season when Taiwan’s tech companies race to supply smartphones, tablets and other electronics to major vendors such as Apple for Western markets’ year-end holiday period. Apple’s quarterly results and forecast beat modest expectations last Thursday, and CEO Tim Cook said revenue growth would return in the current quarter. In March, Foxconn adopted a far more bullish outlook for this year, saying on its fourth-quarter earnings call that it expected a significant rise in revenue driven by booming demand for AI servers. Foxconn’s shares have surged almost 50% so far this year, compared with a 13% gain for the broader market. They closed up 1.3% last Friday. – Reuters South Korea finds illegal stock short sales by seven more banks SEOUL: South Korea’s market watchdog said yesterday it had found breaches of short-selling rules by seven more banks in the domestic stock market as part of a full-scale investigation into trading practices at foreign investment banks. Last November, South Korea introduced a ban on short selling of stocks in the domestic market, after it found illegal trading by two foreign firms in October, and launched a special investigation to look into trading practices at other banks. In its interim investigation results released yesterday, the Financial Supervisory Service (FSS) said it had so far found illegal trading by nine banks, including two that have already been fined, out of 14 foreign investment banks, with trading violations totalling 211.2 billion won (RM733 million). The other five were still being investigated, the FSS said, without naming any of them. South Korea’s Chosun Ilbo daily reported last Thursday that financial authorities had notified Credit Suisse AG that it could face 50 billion won in fines over allegations it breached short-selling rules. The notice was sent to the South Korean and Singaporean units of the bank, the report said, citing industry sources. The FSS and UBS, which took over Credit Suisse in 2023, declined to comment on the report. In South Korea, the Capital Markets Act bans “naked” short selling of stocks, in which an investor short sells shares without first borrowing them or determining they can be borrowed. The FSS said it is cooperating with Hong Kong authorities on its probe and plans to visit the city this month for a meeting to explain South Korea’s short-selling regulations. Last month, the FSS prepared a new monitoring mechanism to better detect short-selling breaches in the stock market. South Korea said the short-selling ban, imposed through the first half of this year, will stay in place until adequate measures are prepared to prevent illegal trade. – Reuters (RM303) on transport, a ticket for the Ferris wheel overlooking Victoria Harbour and food. One of the best pieces of advice on Xiaohungshu, Li said, was to take bottles of water across the border into Hong Kong as that was also cheaper. “I found out that the water that sells for one dollar in the mainland is sold for 10 dollars here.” – Reuters
BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE TUESDAY | MAY 7, 2024 18 READ OUR HERE /thesun Malaysian Paper PARIS: French President Emmanuel Macron yesterday pressed Xi Jinping to coordinate closely with Europe in the face of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and accept fair global trade rules as the Chinese leader began a state visit to France. Xi’s first visit to Europe since 2019 will also see him hold talks in Serbia and Hungary. China’s leader has said he wants to find peace in Ukraine even if analysts do not expect major changes in Chinese policy. But his choice of France as the sole major European power on his itinerary indicates the importance the leader of the one-party Communist state of more than 1.4 billion people accords to Macron as an European Union powerbroker over two years into Russia’s invasion. Opening an initial trilateral meeting attended by European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen, Macron said coordination with Beijing on “major crises” including Ukraine was “absolutely decisive” and urged “fair rules for all” in Europe-China trade. “The future of our continent will very clearly depend on our ability to continue to develop relations with China in a balanced manner,” Macron said. In an op-ed for Le Figaro daily, Xi said he wanted to work with the international community to find ways to resolve the conflict sparked by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, while emphasising that China was “neither a party nor a participant”. “We hope that peace and stability will return quickly to Europe, and intend to work with France and the entire international community to find good paths to resolve the crisis,” he wrote. Von der Leyen earlier said she will press for “fair” competition with China in global trade, adding that in previous talks with Xi she had “made clear that the current imbalances in market access are not sustainable and need to be addressed”. “We have been very clear-eyed about our relationship with China, which is one of the most complex, but also one of the most important,” she said. Like von der Leyen, Macron also said trade was a priority in the talks, underscoring that Europe must defend its “strategic interests” in its economic relations with China. The French president had gladdened Chinese state media and troubled some EU allies after his 2023 visit by declaring that Europe should not be drawn into a “bloc versus bloc” standoff between China and the United States, particularly over democratic, self-ruled Taiwan. Today will see Macron take Xi, who is accompanied by his wife Peng Liyuan, to the Pyrenees mountains to an area he used to visit as a boy for a day of less public and more intimate talks. However, analysts are sceptical that Macron will be able to exercise much sway over the Chinese leader, even with the lavish red-carpet welcome and a trip to the bracing mountain air of the Col du Tourmalet over 2,000m above sea level today. The other two countries chosen by Xi for his tour, Serbia and Hungary, are seen as among the most sympathetic to Moscow in Europe. – AFP Health heavyweights team up for climate, disease funding LONDON: Three of the biggest global health funders have joined forces for the first time in a US$300 million (RM1.4 billion) partnership aimed at tackling the linked impacts of climate change, malnutrition, and infectious diseases and antimicrobial resistance. The Novo Nordisk Foundation, Wellcome and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation announced the research partnership, focused particularly on finding affordable solutions for people in low and middle-income countries, in Denmark yesterday. Each will put US$100 million into the three-year initiative. A key aim is to “break down barriers between often isolated areas of research”, said Novo Nordisk Foundation CEO Mads Krogsgaard Thomsen. For example, Covid-19 showed that obesity can be a risk factor for the severity of some infectious diseases, while extreme weather events linked to climate change can cause food insecurity, leaving undernourished children even more vulnerable to killer diseases such as measles and cholera. The partners said advances in nutritional science and understanding the gut microbiome opened the door to understanding more about “the impact over- and under-nutrition have on all aspects of health and development”. The Novo Nordisk Foundation has a controlling interest in the drugmaker Novo Nordisk, whose weight-loss drug Wegovy has brought in billions for the foundation. The partners said the initiative was important given faltering global attention to health post-pandemic. Wellcome CEO John-Arne Røttingen also said it was about tackling “market failures” and signalling a global commitment to equitable access to medical advances. The funding will also include support for researchers based in low- and middle-income countries. – Reuters Macron presses Xi on Ukraine and trade oAnalysts sceptical French president able to exercise much sway on China leader Oil climbs after Saudi Arabia hikes prices RIYADH: Oil futures climbed yesterday after Saudi Arabia hiked June crude prices for most regions and as the prospect of a Gaza ceasefire deal appeared slim, renewing fears the Israel-Hamas conflict could still widen in the key oil producing region. Brent crude futures gained 34 cents, or 0.4%, to US$83.30 a barrel at 0518 GMT (1.18pm in Malaysia), while US West Texas Intermediate crude futures were at US$78.45 a barrel, up 34 cents, or 0.4%. Saudi Arabia raised the official selling prices (OSPs) for its crude sold to Asia, Northwest Europe and the Mediterranean in June, signalling expectations of strong demand this summer. “After falling a little more than 7.3% last week due to easing geopolitical tensions, ICE Brent has started the new trading week on a stronger footing, opening higher,” ING’s head of commodities research Warren Patterson said. This comes after Saudi Arabia raised June OSPs for most regions amid a tightening of supplies this quarter, he added. In China, the world’s largest crude importer, services activity remained in expansionary territory for the 16th straight month, while growth in new orders accelerated and business sentiment rose solidly, boosting hopes of a sustained economic recovery. Last week, both futures contracts posted their steepest weekly loss in three months with Brent falling more than 7% and WTI down 6.8%, as investors weighed weak US jobs data and the possible timing of a Federal Reserve interest rate cut. The geopolitical risk premium in oil prices has also eased as talks for a Gaza ceasefire are underway. However, prospects for a deal appeared slim on Sunday as Hamas reiterated its demand for an end to the war in exchange for the freeing of hostages, and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu flatly ruled that out. “News that Israel wants to go ahead and extend its operation into Rafah, risks derailing a potential ceasefire agreement and reigniting Middle Eastern geopolitical tensions which had appeared to be easing,” IG markets analyst Tony Sycamore said. With most of the long positions in oil cleared last week, the risks appear to be for WTI prices to rebound back towards US$80 in the early part of this week, he added. In a sign supply may tighten, US energy companies cut the number of oil and natural gas rigs operating for a second week in a row last week. Oil rigs fell by seven to 499, in the biggest weekly drop since November 2023, Baker Hughes said in a report last Friday. – Reuters Niger gold mines ordered shut NIAMEY: Several gold mines in northern Niger managed by a Chinese company were ordered to temporarily close after dozens of animals died from drinking wastewater, local authorities told AFP on Sunday. Herders around the town of Tabelot had pointed to Sahara SARL’s mines as the only explanation for their animals’ deaths, saying the region was not suffering from drought or any epidemics. “We counted 24 dead over two days and at the end of April we finally realised that the slaughter was being caused by harmful products in the water the mines were rejecting,” said Youssaf Houssa, the chief of Tamannit, one of the affected villages. Almou Akoli, who lives in Fasso, another village, said he lost 16 animals while some of his “neighbours cannot keep track of how many they have lost”. China’s Sahara SARL started mining gold in January in the middle of grazing grounds where there are hardly any natural waterholes. Following a visit last Friday by policemen, the Mines Ministry ordered the temporary closure of at least four of the mining sites. “The Chinese have suspended work and we are monitoring our animals,” said Houssa. Air Info newspaper said an official report confirmed that “the catastrophe” was caused by chemical products used in the mines that threaten the water table in what is already a hostile environment for animal husbandry. French company Orano, which has been extracting uranium in northern Niger for more than 40 years, is regularly accused by NGOs of polluting the environment. – AFP Xi and Peng waving prior to disembarking from their plane at Orly airport, south of Paris. – AFPPIC
BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE TUESDAY | MAY 7, 2024 19 STOCKS CLOSING (RM) +/- (RM) VOLUME (’00) NESTLE 128 -0.3 73 AJI 20.04 -0.26 5495 PETDAG 21.66 -0.2 1092 LPI 12.2 -0.18 474 TAANN 3.93 -0.16 10,515 WELLS 0.675 -0.1 53,911 BAT 8.47 -0.09 569 PERTAMA 2.4 -0.09 110,032 CHINTEK 7.45 -0.08 1,089 HEIM 23.32 -0.08 862 AMWAY 7.23 -0.07 223 GTRONIC 1.25 -0.07 98,885 KLUANG 4.76 -0.07 61 MCEMENT 5.1 -0.07 15,135 IOICORP 4.03 -0.06 12728 OIB 1.22 -0.06 34 SCOMNET 1.54 -0.06 50,431 YINSON 2.42 -0.06 51,485 MENTIGA 0.525 -0.055 998 CRESNDO 3.34 -0.05 6,734 STOCKS CLOSING (RM) +/-(RM) +/-(%) VOLUME SNS 0.47 0.075 18.99 2,067,346 INGENIEU 0.11 -0.005 -4.35 1,260,002 FINTEC 0.005 - - 1,194,184 SENDAI 0.46 0.07 17.95 965,925 DNEX 0.415 0.015 3.75 878,116 ICONIC 0.115 0.01 9.52 875,924 MYEG 0.915 -0.005 -0.54 780,003 PWRWELL 0.49 0.03 6.52 476,340 SAPNRG 0.045 - - 400,978 VELESTO 0.265 -0.005 -1.85 333,263 TOPGLOV 0.905 0.01 1.12 327,542 BPURI 0.07 -0.005 -6.67 325,345 MINETEC 0.15 0.005 3.45 299,336 YTL 3.34 0.08 2.45 289,497 JIANKUN 0.175 0.01 6.06 269,807 MRDIY 1.7 0.02 1.19 252,168 IFCAMSC 0.435 0.02 4.82 231,886 TOPMIX 0.47 0.005 1.08 225,298 PBBANK 4.2 0.08 1.94 223,574 CAPITALA 0.84 0.015 1.82 221,095 SUNBIZ presents a summary of the day’s trading activity on Bursa Malaysia and other markets in an easy to digest format. MARKET ROUND-UP: MAY 6 [ Sources: Bursa Malaysia, Bernama, shareinvestor.com and websites DISCLAIMER: The data and reports are provided as a service to investors. Sun Media Corporation Sdn Bhd shall not be liable or responsible for any consequences resulting from usage of the information. INDEX CHANGE FBMEMAS 12,034.20 +64.16 FBMKLCI 1,597.39 +7.80 CONSUMER PRODUCTS 595.45 -0.05 INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTS 191.94 +1.10 CONSTRUCTION 225.90 +2.08 FINANCIAL SERVICES 17,423.60 +133.19 ENERGY 962.71 -4.14 TELECOMMUNICATIONS 597.43 +3.06 HEALTH CARE 2,093.59 -2.65 TRANSPORTATION 1,061.99 +13.38 PROPERTY 1,026.85 +14.28 PLANTATION 7,393.14 -26.73 FBMSHA 12,229.90 +36.62 FBMACE 5,140.91 +6.36 TECHNOLOGY 66.32 +0.75 TURNOVER: 4.477 bil VALUE: RM3.118 bil Top 20 Actives Top 20 Losers (By RM) Bursa Indices INDEX CLOSING DAILY DAILY CHANGE CHANGE (%) DJIA (US) 38,675.68 +450.02 +1.18 S&P 500 (US) 5,127.79 +63.59 +0.01 NASDAQ (US) 16,156.33 +315.37 +0.02 NYSE (US) 17,797.89 +98.84 +0.56 EURO STOXX 50 (EUR) 4,935.67 +14.19 +0.29 FTSE 100 (UK) 8,213.49 +41.34 +0.51 DAX (GER) 18,074.23 +72.63 +0.40 NIKKEI 225 (JPN) 38,236.07 -37.98 -0.10 TOPIX (JPN) 2,136.23 -0.61 -0.03 HANG SENG INDEX (HK) 18,578.30 +102.38 +0.55 CSI 300 (CHN) 3,657.88 +53.49 +0.01 SH SE COM (CHN) 3,140.72 +35.90 +1.16 KOSPI INDEX (SK) 2,676.63 -7.02 -0.26 MSCI ASIA PACIFIC 177.55 +1.67 +0.95 ASX 200 (AUS) 7,682.37 +53.41 +0.70 ALL ORDINARIES INDX (AUS) 7,952.26 +54.74 +0.69 SENSEX INDEX (IND) 73,908.31 +30.16 +0.04 FBM KLCI 1,597.39 +7.80 +0.49 STRAITS TIMES INDEX (S’PORE) 3,302.70 +9.77 +0.00 WTI (US$/BBL.) 78.96 +0.85 +1.09 BRENT (US$/BBL.) 83.73 +0.77 +0.93 GOLD (COMEX) (US$/T OZ) 83.73 +0.77 +0.93 SILVER (COMEX) (US$/T OZ) 27.35 +0.66 +2.47 PLATINUM (US$/T OZ) 966.45 +9.01 +0.94 COPPER (COMEX) (US CENTS/LB.) 460.65 +4.95 +1.09 COPPER 3MO (LME) (US$/MT) 9,910.00 144.50 1.48 CORN (US CENTS/BU.) 457.50 -2.75 -0.60 WHEAT (US CENTS/BU.) 613.50 -9.00 -1.45 SOYBEAN OIL (CBOT) (US CENTS/LB.) 43.51 +0.43 +0.01 COCOA (ICE) (US$/MT) 8,145.00 +582.00 +7.70 RUBBER (S’PORE) (US CENTS/KG) 161.50 -0.40 -0.25 World Stocks/Commodities as at 5pm, May 6 STOCKS CLOSING (RM) +/- (%) VOLUME (’00) BORNOIL 0.005 -50 99,155 EAH 0.005 -50 100 HONGSENG 0.01 -33.33 150,735 SAUDEE 0.02 -33.33 22,783 TWL-LA 0.015 -25 1,253 TWL 0.025 -16.67 133,124 XOXNET 0.025 -16.67 4 BERTAM 0.11 -15.38 800 WELLS 0.675 -12.9 53,911 EVD-PA 0.035 -12.5 10,000 VIZIONE 0.035 -12.5 103 CLASSITA 0.04 -11.11 13314 HUBLINE 0.04 -11.11 80,692 ECM 0.19 -9.52 20 MENTIGA 0.525 -9.48 998 JOHAN 0.05 -9.09 1381 DIGISTA 0.055 -8.33 5962 EURO 0.055 -8.33 15443 PUC 0.055 -8.33 18,909 TDEX 0.06 -7.69 1 Top 20 Losers (By %) STOCKS CLOSING (RM) +/- (RM) VOLUME (’00) SAM 5.54 0.38 39,671 DLADY 34.5 0.28 366 CHGP 2.41 0.25 17,565 F&N 32.24 0.24 1,477 HUMEIND-LA 4.38 0.2 485 PBA 2.16 0.2 41,981 VSTECS 2.73 0.2 22,747 MFCB 4.79 0.17 6,309 FRONTKN 4.09 0.16 70,505 DUFU 2.35 0.15 88084 HUMEIND 3.13 0.15 32,732 CHINAETF-MYR 4.85 0.15 1,047 ALLIANZ 21.32 0.14 57 ARKA 2.09 0.14 2628 MSM 3.45 0.13 18,665 TIMECOM 5.29 0.13 24,855 HTPADU 2.2 0.12 45,929 PADINI 3.73 0.12 12,645 YTLPOWR 4.91 0.12 205,269 KGB 2.84 0.11 33,214 Top 20 Gainers (By RM) STOCKS CLOSING (RM) +/- (%) VOLUME (’00) COMPUGT 0.015 50 11,080 TECHNAX 0.015 50 44,007 MTRONIC 0.02 33.33 4,164 ZENTECH 0.02 33.33 3,991 ASIAPLY 0.07 27.27 95650 BSLCORP 0.03 20 5985 MERIDIAN 0.06 20 3 SNS 0.47 18.99 2067346 SENDAI 0.46 17.95 965,925 CHGP 2.41 11.57 17565 INTA 0.43 10.26 193358 PBA 2.16 10.2 41,981 ICONIC 0.115 9.52 875,924 MINETEC-PA 0.06 9.09 20869 GLBHD 0.305 8.93 327 MUIIND 0.065 8.33 26,264 WIDAD 0.065 8.33 91,438 HEGROUP 0.53 8.16 159,322 MINOX 0.265 8.16 43,249 VSTECS 2.73 7.91 22,747 Top 20 Gainers (By %) Bursa hits 52-week high amid upbeat regional performance BURSA Malaysia extended last week’s gains to close higher for the third consecutive session yesterday, with the key index hitting a 52-week high amid an upbeat regional performance. At 5pm, the FBM KLCI rose 0.49%, or 7.80 points to 1,597.39 compared to Friday’s close of 1,589.59. The benchmark index, which opened 2.21 points higher at 1,591.80, trended between 1,591.17 and a peak of 1,598.26 during the afternoon session. On the broader market, gainers led decliners 657 to 447 while 499 counters were unchanged, 712 untraded and 16 others suspended. Turnover widened to 4.48 billion units worth RM3.12 billion from 3.87 billion units worth RM3.15 billion last week. Rakuten Trade Sdn Bhd equity research vice-president Thong Pak Leng expects buying activities to continue with the upswing in investor sentiment, supported by a steady and strong inflow of foreign funds into the region. “The increasing daily trading volume signifies a growing appetite for the market and the benchmark index is charging towards the 1,600 psychological level. If it successfully breaks through this resistance and can hold for an extended period, we anticipate additional upward potential,“ he told Bernama. Among the heavyweight stocks, Maybank added three sen to RM9.83, Public Bank gained eight sen to RM4.20 and Tenaga Nasional rose six sen to RM12.38. CIMB was 10 sen higher at RM6.75 and IHH Healthcare edged up one sen to RM6.30. As for the actives, SNS rallied 7.5 sen to 47 sen, Ingenieur inched down half-a-sen to 11 sen and Fintech was flat at 0.5 sen. Eversendai jumped seven sen to 46 sen and Dagang Nexchange rose 1.5 sen to 41.5 sen. 1,597.39pts May 6, 2024 Participation 23.43 46.84 29.73 100.00 Retail Institutions Foreign Bought RM m 675.63 1390.74 1051.90 3118.28 Sold RM m 785.36 1530.46 802.46 3118.28 Net RM m -109.72 -139.71 249.44 0.00 % 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) 6/5/2024
BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE TUESDAY | MAY 7, 2024 20 MARKETS/FROM THE BROKERS SUNBIZ presents extracts of a selection of commentaries and research reports received from stockbrokers on counters that could be of interest to investors. [Compiled by SunBiz Team DISCLAIMER: The information is extracted from stockbrokers’ commentaries and research reports and do not represent the views or opinions of Sun Media Corporation Sdn Bhd. It is not a solicitation, recommendation or an offer to buy or sell the equities featured. Sun Media Corporation shall not be liable or responsible for any consequences resulting from usage of the information. SAMEE is a contract manufacturer where its aerospace segment (23% of FY23 revenue) specialises in precision machining of niche aerospace products of complex geometry, mostly in the scope of nacelles and engine cases while its equipment segment (77% of revenue) provides equipment engineering solutions like precision machining, sheet metal fabrication, surface treatment, integration and automation, to the semiconductor and data storage industries. SAMEE is an indirect subsidiary of Temasek Holdings. SAMEE’s equipment segment has 3 main clients – Customer X and Y (frontend SPEs) and Z (back-end ATE), all of which have TSMC as their top-paying customer. Various studies (by SEMI, Gartner) have implied a record-high capex on WFE in 2025, implying that we may soon see an inflection point. Meanwhile, its aerospace segment’s end clients are Airbus and Boeing. Since Q4’23, SAMEE’s aerospace division has been consistently raking in profits, signifying that the unit is finally out of the woods after being in the red in FY21 and FY22. We project a strong 3-year FY23-26E core net profit CAGR of 20% for SAMEE, from: i) the consolidation of Aviatron’s financials from end-Feb 2024; ii) a steady annual improvement in the group’s aerospace sales from record-high backlog orders, coupled with gradual ramp-up of its BB2 plant; iii) a gradual and steady recovery in orders in 1H CY25 for front-end semicon customers, followed by back-end customers in 2H CY25; and iv) commissioning of its RJ2 and BB1 plants for its equipment segment. We estimate RJ2 + BB1 have a revenue potential of RM800 million annually. Initiate coverage with BUY @ RM6.05 TP. ELSOFT’S Q1’24 core profit of RM0.9 million came in below expectations, accounting for 6.8% of our full-year estimate. The variance was mainly due to softer-than-expected demand for automated test equipment. YoY, Q1’24’s core profit dropped 66.8% to RM0.9 million, as the group suffered from a margin squeeze and share of loss in the associate company. On top of that, the demand for automated test equipment had yet to recover. Meanwhile, revenue stayed flat at RM4.6 million. On a brighter note, the group saw a QoQ earnings recovery. Q1’24’s core profit jumped 92.4% to RM0.9 million as revenue surged by 107.3% to RM4.6 million thanks to higher demand from the automotive segment. Its balance sheet remains solid with zero debt and a net cash position of RM96.7 million or 14sen/share as of end-Q1’24. The group is still looking forward to seeing a recovery in 2024. We expect earnings to improve, especially in 2H’24, alongside an anticipated recovery in the global demand for semiconductors. Given the weaker-than-expected results, earnings forecasts for FY24/FY25/FY26 are reduced by 27.9%/2.0%/1.7%, respectively, after factoring in lower sales assumptions. After revising the earnings forecasts, we tweaked the target price lower from RM0.59 to RM0.575, based on 24x CY25 earnings. Maintain a HOLD call on the stock. Elsoft is principally involved in research, design and development of test and burn-in systems and applicationspecific embedded systems. Elsoft mainly provides cost-effective ATE solutions to the semiconductor, optoelectronic and automation industries. The group’s key product i.e. test and burnin systems are used by its customers who manufacture optoelectronic devices such as LED, image sensors and automotive lighting to test their products before launching into the market. A FEW new EV models have been launched in Malaysia since early 2024 – these include the BYD Seal,Chery Omoda E5, the MG4 EV and GWM Ora 07 – on which prices range from RM104k to RM200k a unit. Consequently, a few existing models in the same price range underwent price reductions by 4-19%. As new EV sales are still lacklustre (1.3% of total TIV), anymore new EV launches within the same price range would further intensify competition. We think the impact of subsidy rationalisation on the auto sector would mainly be on the mid-market segment, as the low-income group is still expected to benefit from subsidies while high-income earners should be less affected by the ending of subsidies. However, we are positive on the salary revisions for civil workers, as the >13% increment would be sufficient to entice consumers to spend on major purchases. Major marques such as Perodua and Toyota saw their order backlogs easing to 128k and 28k as at end-Dec 2023 from 190k and 52k units in May 2023. Also, the loan approval rate for vehicle purchases in YTD-2024 is 58% (2022-2023: 62-63%) while gross loans for vehicle purchases have risen by only 2.7%, despite TIV rising by 5%. This may imply tighter lending requirements as well as downtrading activities by consumers. Coupled with looming inflationary pressures, we believe car sales will continue to recede in the coming quarters, as sales volumes after a recordhigh year normalise. Still NEUTRAL. FOREIGN CURRENCY SELLING TT/OD BUYING TT BUYING OD 1 US Dollar 4.8040 4.6680 4.6580 1 Australian Dollar 3.1960 3.0690 3.0530 1 Brunei Dollar 3.5580 3.4540 3.4460 1 Canadian Dollar 3.5070 3.4130 3.4010 1 Euro 5.1820 5.0140 4.9940 1 New Zealand Dollar 2.8970 2.7910 2.7750 1 Singapore Dollar 3.5580 3.4540 3.4460 1 Sterling Pound 6.0430 5.8540 5.8340 1 Swiss Franc 5.2920 5.1680 5.1530 100 UAE Dirham 132.4400 125.5400 125.3400 100 Bangladesh Taka 4.4630 4.1710 3.9710 100 Chinese Renminbi 66.8500 64.0100 N/A 100 Danish Krone 71.2200 65.5200 65.3200 100 Hongkong Dollar 62.2000 59.1000 58.9000 100 Indian Rupee 5.8600 5.5000 5.3000 100 Indonesian Rupiah 0.0311 0.0281 0.0231 100 Japanese Yen 3.1350 3.0350 3.0250 100 New Taiwan Dollar 15.9000 N/A N/A 100 Norwegian Krone 45.4200 41.7700 41.5700 100 Pakistan Rupee 1.7600 1.6500 1.4500 100 Philippine Peso 8.5400 8.0400 7.8400 100 Qatar Riyal 133.3200 126.5600 126.3600 100 Saudi Riyal 129.6000 123.0300 122.8300 100 South Africa Rand 26.9000 24.2900 24.0900 100 Sri Lanka Rupee 1.6600 1.5300 1.3300 100 Swedish Krona 45.8400 41.7500 41.5500 100 Thai Baht 13.6700 12.1200 11.7200 Exchange Rates Source: Malayan Banking Bhd/Bernama Ringgit ends slightly lower against dollar after initial gains THE ringgit trimmed earlier gains to end slightly lower against the US dollar yesterday despite the weaker-than-expected US Nonfarm Payroll (NFP) data released last Friday, said an economist. At 6pm, the ringgit eased to 4.7380/7405 versus the greenback from Friday’s close of 4.7370/7400. Bank Muamalat Malaysia Bhd chief economist Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid said the US dollar/ringgit rate had started low at RM4.7330 in the early morning session but gradually depreciated towards RM4.7413 later in the afternoon session. “There was a slight uptick in the US Dollar Index (DXY) to 105.077 points but only marginally because the US dollar was weaker against euro and pound sterling. The DXY has six components and among them are euro and pound sterling. “In a nutshell, markets are still pretty much bullish on the US dollar despite the US jobs data last Friday,” he told Bernama. At the close, the ringgit traded mostly lower against a basket of major currencies. It rose versus the Japanese yen to 3.0806/0825 from Friday’s close of 3.0947/0968 but went down vis-a-vis the British pound to 5.9604/9635 from 5.9487/9525 earlier and slipped against the euro to 5.1033/1060 from 5.0890/0922 previously. The local note traded lower against Asean currencies. Against the Thai baht, the ringgit fell to 12.8950/9070 from Friday’s 12.8723/8850, inched down versus the Singapore dollar to 3.5086/5107 from 3.5027/5054, eased vis-a-vis the Indonesian rupiah to 295.6/295.9 from 294.4/294.8 and was lower against the Philippine peso to 8.28/8.29 from 8.25/8.27 previously. Airbus to set up simulator for H175 helicopter in Subang KUALA LUMPUR: Airbus plans to invest in a third helicopter fullflight simulator in Subang, Selangor, with operations expected to commence in 2026. Chief representative for Malaysia Burhanudin Noordin Ali said the simulator will be used for the H175 helicopters. There are currently two simulators for the H225 and AS365 helicopters, Burhanudin Noordin told a press conference in conjunction with the Defence Services Asia (DSA) and National Security (NATSEC) Asia 2024 exhibitions yesterday. The Airbus Helicopters Malaysia Simulation Centre, a joint venture with Boustead Heavy Industries Corporation, is located in Subang. Airbus Asia-Pacific president Anand Stanley said the H225M will be the main highlight of this year’s DSA and NATSEC. The Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) is one of the global operators of the H225M. It has 12 in its fleet and they fly on military and humanitarian duties. “We want to ensure that Malaysia continues to have access to the best-in-class, state-of-the-art products from Airbus,” he said. In a statement yesterday, Airbus reaffirmed that Malaysia is an important market for its military helicopters, defence and space business and expressed its commitment to strengthening its presence here. “We are well-positioned to offer Malaysia a strong A400M-C295 mixed fleet to support strategic and tactical requirements.“ Airbus currently has over 800 employees in Malaysia and supports more than 4,000 job opportunities in the country’s supply chain. – Bernama Auto & Autoparts Neutral Elsoft Research Bhd Hold. Target price: RM0.575 SAM Engineering & Equipment Bhd Buy. Target price: RM6.05 Source: Maybank Investment Bank Source: Bloomberg, TA Research Source: Company data, RHB May 6, 2024: RM0.555 May 6, 2024: RM5.51
INSIDE Big by-election y-election chill Discover the wonders of Kuala Kubu Baharu Discover the wonders of Kuala Kubu Baharu –P22 WEEKLY FOCUS MONDAY Discover cuttingedge world of Gaming and Tech TUESDAY Ultimate guide to Travel and Leisure WEDNESDAY Latest in Fashion and Beauty sense THURSDAY Inside the world of Social Media Influencers FRIDAY Culinary delights and Beverage trends TUESDAY | MAY 7, 2024 Editorial T: 03-7784 6688 F: 03-7785 2625 E: [email protected] Advertising T: 03-7784 8888 E: [email protected] SCAN ME 123RFPIC INSIDE p 24 Journey beyond the familiar p 23 AirAsia Cambodia takes off p 25 Marvel at Turkiye’s Aegean wonders p 26 Insight into Poacher
LYFE LYFE TUESDAY | MAY 7, 2024 22 KUALA KUBU BAHARU (KKB) is very much in the news right now with the upcoming by-elections expected to be a hotly contested affair, with thousands of volunteers, media and political party supporters besieging the quaint little town alongside the voters. If you are among the many making the trek to KKB this weekend, why not pack the family along for a mini-vacation by taking in the location’s many wonders. KKB has been listed as a Unesco World Heritage Site under the Garden City Heritage category. The town was built in 1928 after floods destroyed the old district capital of Hulu Selangor. It is rich in ecotourism /thesuntelegram FOLLOW ON TELEGRAM Malaysian Paper Chillin’ amid by-election fever Visitors to KKB for the by-elections should enjoy its many attractions. – ALL PICS BY TOURISM SELANGOR oAside from eco-tourism activities, Kuala Kubu Baharu is known for arts and heritage KKB is rich in ecotourism activities such as hiking, paragliding and water rafting. There is also a lot of beautiful nature in the area, incuding waterfalls. KKB is famous for its culinary heritage. activities such as hiking at Bukit Kutu, trekking at Chilling Waterfall, water tubing and even mountain biking. Annual extreme sports events are held here including paragliding, mountain biking and white water rafting. The town is also well-known for its artistic heritage with many murals adorning buildings and public spaces which tell the story of KKB since its establishment. The colourful street art is not mere graffiti as it tell the stories of the local Aboriginal communities and the “Legend of the White Crocodile”. These murals also celebrate the rich culinary heritage of KKB by including local faves such as its famous kaya puffs and Lu Mian. Eco- and nature tourism / activities Nature trail @ Treacher Hill (Bukit Kutu) Treacher Hill , also known as Bukit Kutu, is a historical hill with a challenging 6.5 km hiking trail that takes you through various terrains, dense forests and river crossings. On average, it takes hikers around two to three hours to complete the ascent to the summit, which stands 1053 metres tall. One of the unique aspects of Bukit Kutu is the presence of colonial-era ruins. These ruins are remnants of a British colonial hill station that once existed on the hill, offering a glimpse into Selangor’s past. The summit of Bukit Kutu serves as a spectacular vantage point. From here, visitors can enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding hills, forests and valleys. To all hikers planning to climb Bukit Kutu, please get a permit from the District Forest Offices. Hiking @ Bukit Batu Pahat Nestled close to KKB, Bukit Batu Pahat is a popular hiking spot in Hulu Selangor that does not require a permit or fees, with plenty of parking spots at Taman Tasik Millenium for travellers. Standing 426 metres from sea level, it takes one to two hours on average to reach its summit. Not only is this hiking spot well-liked among hikers, but it is also a take-off point for paragliders. Those who are interested to paraglide from Bukit Batu Pahat can make reservations through the KKB Paragliding Park (CloudBase). White water rafting @ Sungai Selangor Sungai Selangor is hugely popular among water sport enthusiats. Just an hour’s drive from Kuala Lumpur, this river has a rapid grade of 2-4 and will thrill hardcore water sports fanatics. This trip will also include on-river refreshments and lunch at the river lodge so you will not have to worry about preparing snacks. Enjoy the cool river and share your excitement with family and friends at this amazing adventure-tourism spot that will surely get the adrenaline pumping Water Tubing @ Sg Chiling If you have never tried water tubing, it is an activity where a person is supported on the water surface by a float. This laidback activity can be found at Sungai Chiling. Once the tubing is done, visitors may head to the nearby waterfall and fish sanctuary to enjoy a more relaxed environment after the ride. Families and friends can also enjoy a picnic by the riverbank whilst watching the beautiful Sungai Chiling waterfall. Fishing @ Sungai Pertak The Sungai Pertak River flows through an Orang Asli community and into the Selangor River Dam. Known primarily as as a fishing and camping destination for visitors from Kuala Lumpur, 4WD enthusiasts and dirt bikers also blast down the several paths that span this river. The river flows through deep pools with tiny waterfalls in intervals, with the main segment near the settlement. The river also serves as a starting point for climbers to Bukit Kutu. This riverside tourist site may be reached by taking the main road to Kampung Pertak and then following a dirt road all the way to the end. Accomodation Fraser Valley, KKB Experience “glamping” at its finest as you enjoy the great outdoors without giving up creature comforts, Fully equipped with rest rooms, shared kitchens and various other amenities, Fraser Valley offers a multitude of facilities including swimming pool and water slides. Activities include cycling tours, ATV rides and paddle boating. The Sticks, KKB The Sticks is a charming eco-resort tucked away in the dense jungle of KKB. It was constructed on a former tin mine site. Built with environmental sustainability in mind, the resort generates electricity via solar power, obtains water from a local stream, and was developed with little land impact. All 12 of the unique houses, or as they fondly call them “tendoks”, a cross between a tent and a pondok (or hut in Malay), at The Sticks were designed to ensure an accommodation experience authentic to nature without sacrificing comfort. Guests can relax and enjoy moments spent lounging on a hammock under the sky, floating along the river, or dining on delicious homecooked meals ensuring comfort during their stay. See also page 23
LYFE LYFE TUESDAY | MAY 7, 2024 23 AirAsia Cambodia takes flight THE launch of AirAsia Cambodia last week signifies a pivotal moment in Cambodia’s aviation landscape. As operations started on May 2, AirAsia Cambodia is set to provide affordable and convenient air travel options, connecting passengers to destinations within Cambodia and beyond. AirAsia’s entry into Cambodia with its seventh airline, AirAsia Cambodia (flight code KT), represents an advancement in the country’s aviation sector and reinforces Asean’s position as a dynamic aviation hub. The airline’s operations from Phnom Penh International Airport will connect travellers to key cities AirAsia Cambodia is enhancing connectivity and providing reliable air travel options for Cambodians and visitors alike. – PICS COURTESY OF AIRASIA CAMBODIA oExpansion marks a milestone for country’s aviation and Asean integration █ BYYASMIN ZULRAEZ (From left) Nam, Minister in Charge of State Secretariat of Civil Aviation Dr Mao Havannall and Fernandes at the commemoration ceremony of AirAsia Cambodia at Phnom Penh. Fernandes highlights Cambodia’s economic potential and importance within the Asean region. such as Siem Reap and Sihanoukville, as well as to regional hubs in Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok. AirAsia’s “One Airline” strategy, aimed at consolidating its operations for enhanced efficiency and customer experience, is seen through the establishment of AirAsia Cambodia. With an initial fleet of two Airbus A320s, the airline will deliver low-cost air travel across Cambodia and beyond. Capital A CEO Tan Sri Tony Fernandes emphasised AirAsia’s commitment to leveraging opportunities in Cambodia’s dynamic market, catering to domestic demand and contributing to the country’s economic progress through various business lines, including digital services, fintech, logistics and aviation services. AirAsia Cambodia’s entry into the market is poised to further stimulate Asean tourism growth, with increased connectivity and accessibility for travellers. By offering affordable air travel options, the airline aims to unlock new experiences and opportunities for millions of Cambodians while contributing to the region’s economic development and cultural exchange. AirAsia Cambodia CEO Vissoth Nam said endorsement from the Cambodian government reaffirms AirAsia’s commitment to providing accessible travel options for Cambodians. The inaugural domestic flight from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap marked the beginning of a new era in Cambodia’s tourism industry, where accessibility meets affordability. With an almost full passenger load, AirAsia Cambodia is enhancing connectivity and providing reliable air travel options for Cambodians and visitors alike. AirAsia Aviation Group CEO Bo Lingam emphasised the airline’s role in empowering regional exploration by providing connectivity to over 130 destinations across Asia and beyond. Through its track record of u n l o c k i n g opportunities in u n d e r s e r v e d markets, AirAsia Cambodia is poised to catalyse a new era in Cambodia’s tourism industry and economy. Discover the delights of KKB KKB offers perfect respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. A typically beautiful day in KKB. – 123RFPIC Sarang by the Brook, KKB Sarang by the Brook is a collection of 11 private homes in the heart of KKB’s lush tropical jungle. With its tropical garden encircling a landscaped saltwater swimming pool, Sarang by the Brook is an intimate property located just an hour from Kuala Lumpur. Visitors can experience a splendour of activities suited for all ages, from river trekking, white water rafting and even exploring the jungle at night. Culinary Teng Wun Bakery & Confectionery Located in the heart of KKB, this over 40-year-old bakery is famous for its homemade kaya puff, tarts and cakes. Looking for authentic local treats, the bakery offers their seasonal durian cakes with fresh fruit sourced from from Batang Kali. Proof of the quality of the grub is the number of people who travel to KKB just to sample this cafe’s delicacies. Yogi Cafe Toys, toys and more toys is the theme for this kids-friendly cafe. The decor is designed to evoke a sense of fun among the young and for the not-so-young to get in touch with their inner child. This eatery is famous for its shaved ice desserts, smoothies and potent milk tea. Kedai Makanan Hailam Sun Sun Nam Cheong Located in the middle of KKB town, Sun Sun Nam Cheong is one of the legendary restaurants in Hulu Selangor. Known for its Mee Hailam, the restaurant has served various local and fusion delicacies for over 70 years, such as roti bakar, nasi goreng hailam, Hainanese Chicken Chop and a few others. Open every day except Monday, from 7.00am to 3.00pm, this is the best restaurant to From page 22 visit for your breakfast, brunch or lunch! Resepi Opah Craving for authentic Malay cuisine? Stop over at Resepi Opah for a warm homecooked meal. Operating since 2018, Resepi Opah offers traditional Malay cuisines like daging salai masak lemak, curry noodles, ayam goreng berempah and more. Events & festivals Wings of Kuala Kubu Bharu The Wings of Kuala Kubu Bharu was first introduced in 2012 to promote bird-watching activities in the vicinity. Various schools and universities have participated in a few categories such as Bird Race, Bird Photography, Bird Painting and Bird Explorace. The Wings of Kuala Kubu Bharu will once again held this year on May 25–26, 2024. Stargazing @ Selangor River Dam Experience the magic of stargazing at the Selangor River Dam. Surrounded by hills, KKB has always been the goto destination for stargazing activities, especially for nearby KL folk. Either spend the night for camping or observing the stars from the hill top, this place is a must visit for tourists. Mountain Bike Challenge @ Fraser’s Hill KKB is hugely popukar among cyclists for years as riders challenge themselves with the locale’s naturally hlily terrain. The local municipal councils has organised the King of Mountain event involving a 40km route finishing at the 1,456 metre summit of Fraser’s Hill. It is expected that the King of Mountain will be held again to further welcome tourists during the Visit Selangor Year 2025. So do not just visit KKB for the upcoming by-election fever but do check out the many attractions above that will provide many hours of family fun. Build an almanac of memories to last a lifetime at KKB. See also page 24
LYFE LYFE TUESDAY | MAY 7, 2024 24 The road less travelled WHILE Cambodia’s renowned landmarks like Angkor Wat and Phnom Penh draw countless visitors, the country has an abundance of lesser-known destinations awaiting discovery. Enjoy a journey off the beaten path to uncover the soulful essence of Cambodia, where hidden gems define the true charm of this captivating land. Kampong Cham Nestled along the banks of the Mekong River, Kampong Cham beckons with its serene ambience and rich culture. Here, time seems to stand still as one wanders through quaint villages, adorned with traditional wooden houses and vibrant markets. The real charm of Kampong Cham lies in its authenticity. Engage with friendly locals as one wanders through the streets, savouring the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and indulging in street food delicacies. Do not miss the opportunity to cycle across the iconic bamboo bridge, offering panoramic views of the majestic Mekong. Preah Vihear Temple Venture to the northern reaches of Cambodia, where the ancient Preah Vihear Temple stands as a testament to the country’s rich heritage. Perched atop a cliff overlooking the sprawling plains below, this Unesco World Heritage Site exudes an aura of mystery and glory. Travel through dense jungles and rugged terrain to reach the temple complex, where intricate carvings and towering spires await discovery. As one gazes at the breathtaking views from the temple’s steep perch, immerse in the spirituality that penetrates this sacred site. Phnom Kulen Escape hectic urban life as one retreats to the serene embrace of Phnom Kulen. Tucked away in the flourishing forests of northern Cambodia, this hidden gem promises a tranquil sanctuary for weary souls. Immerse in the natural beauty of the surroundings as one treks through jungle trails and crystal-clear waterfalls. Take a refreshing dip in the sacred pools believed to hold mystical powers, rejuvenating body and spirit alike. Koh Rong Samloem For those seeking a tropical escape, look no further than the pristine shores of Koh Rong Samloem. Situated off the coast of Sihanoukville, this secluded island paradise offers a peaceful retreat Kampong Cham. – PIC FROM INSTAGRAM @MAX.AVIA oExplore Cambodia’s lesser-known treasures for a unique tourist experience █ BYYASMIN ZULRAEZ Preah Vihear Temple. – PIC FROM INSTAGRAM @KHMERLIFEOFFICIAL Koh Rong Samloem. – PIC FROM INSTAGRAM @VISITSOUTHEAST ASIAOFFICIAL Kep. – PIC FROM FACEBOOK @KHIRITRAVEL amid blue waters and white sands. Indulge in a load of water activities, from snorkelling in between vibrant coral reefs to kayaking along secluded coves. As the sun sets, bask in the serenity of island life, where the only soundtrack is the gentle lapping of waves against the shore. Ratanakiri Venture to the northeastern province of Ratanakiri, where untamed wilderness and indigenous culture await discovery. Explore rainforests and cascading waterfalls, encountering exotic wildlife and breathtaking landscapes at every turn. Immerse in the culture of the local hill tribes, learning about their customs and traditions passed down through generations. Trek through remote villages, where traditional longhouses dot the landscape and friendly smiles welcome visitors with open arms. Kep Escape to the laid-back coastal town of Kep, known for its breathtaking beaches and mouth-watering seafood. Indulge in freshly caught crab prepared in a variety of appetising dishes, served against the backdrop of spectacular ocean views. Explore the remnants of Kep’s colonial past as one wanders through the abandoned villas of the French elite, now reclaimed by nature and adorned with vibrant street art. Do not miss the opportunity to hike through Kep National Park, where lush forests and scenic viewpoints await discovery. Pursat Journey to Pursat province, a hidden gem renowned for its rich cultural heritage and scenic countryside. Explore traditional Khmer villages, where ancient customs and rituals are preserved with pride amid the modern world. Discover the art of silk weaving, passed down through generations of skilled artisans. Visit local markets brimming with colourful textiles and handicrafts, offering a glimpse into Cambodia’s vibrant artisanal traditions. In between picturesque rice paddies and verdant landscapes, visitors will get to immerse in the timeless charm of rural life. Kampot Nestled along the banks of the Preaek Tuek Chhu River, Kampot exudes a laid-back charm that captivates visitors with its colonial architecture, pepper plantations, and picturesque landscapes. Explore the quaint streets lined with colonial-era buildings, now home to boutique cafes, art galleries and craft shops. Venture into the surrounding countryside to discover the lush greenery of Bokor National Park, where hiking trails lead to panoramic viewpoints and cascading waterfalls. Go on a river cruise along the tranquil waterways, passing by mangrove forests and traditional fishing villages, or indulge in a sunset river cruise for a mesmerising end to the day. Embrace the unseen As one traverses Cambodia’s lesserknown destinations, immerse in the authentic beauty and enchantment that lie beyond the tourist hotspots. From the tranquil riverside allure of Kampong Cham to the mystical allure of Preah Vihear Temple, each hidden gem offers a unique glimpse into the heart of Cambodia. Embrace the opportunity to connect with timeless traditions, aweinspiring landscapes, and warm hospitality, for it is in the depths of the unseen that the true essence of travel is found, an experience that transcends the ordinary and leaves an indelible mark on the soul. See also page 23
LYFE LYFE TUESDAY | MAY 7, 2024 25 Bozcaada also offers a variety of wines, including reds from the endemic Kuntra and Karalahna grapes and whites from Çavus and Vasilaki. Urla, known for its vineyards, offers local grape varieties like Bornova Misketi and delicious wines made from Foça Karası and Gaydura grapes, which have been saved from extinction through reproduction. Fine dining The Aegean region of Türkiye presents numerous fine dining options. In recent years, innovative chefs have opened upscale restaurants showcasing the ecological and cultural sustainability of Aegean cuisine through the products and traditions of this fertile region. In this context, particularly in Izmir’s Urla district, one of the region’s most popular tourist destinations, you can sample local dishes at restaurants following the farm-to-table concept and a zero-waste approach. The Michelin Guide includes Urla in Izmir and Bodrum in Mugla, another well-known tourism destination. TURKIYE’S Aegean region welcomes guests to enjoy a one-of-a-kind gastronomic experience that embraces centuries of traditional culinary culture. Türkiye’s Aegean coast is one of the country’s most important places for sustainable cuisine, with a culinary heritage that includes tasty olive oils, a range of indigenous herbs and vegetables, fresh seafood, an old wine-making tradition, and a farm-to-table philosophy. More recently, the region has been renowned for its acclaimed restaurants, many of which are led by talented young chefs who serve new adaptations of classic dishes. The Michelin Guide has recognised several restaurants in Izmir and Bodrum, two popular Aegean locations, for their diverse and high-quality menus. Olive oil takes centre stage Due to its favourable climate and geography, the Aegean coast has always been one of Anatolia’s highest olive production regions. This deep-rooted culture and cultivation history also explains why Aegean cuisine is shaped around olives and olive oil. The region’s delicious olives and olive oils are a time-honoured centrepiece of Aegean cuisine. Olive oil, flavoured with herbs like thyme, rosemary or mint, is a mainstay of breakfast tables in the Aegean as a dip for fresh-baked bread, while olive oils add flavour, health and lightness to salads, appetisers and main courses at lunch and dinner. Here, vegetables such as green beans, eggplant and artichokes, the harbingers of spring, are transformed into wonderfully tasty dishes with the miracle of olive oil, the secret of longevity. Other famous flavours in Aegean cuisine are derived from the Aegean herbs native to the region. Festivals are organised to celebrate delicious and medicinal herbs such as Sevket-i bostan (blessed thistle), asparagus and dandelion, which are blended with delicious olive oil and served as main dishes or appetisers. Fish-laden tables Naturally, Aegean cuisine encompasses the bounty of the fertile Aegean Sea. From Ayvalık to Alaçatı and from Bodrum to Datça, restaurants in Aegean coastal towns present the freshest seafood, including sea bream, sea bass, grouper, oysters, octopus, squid and shrimp. Octopus and squid dishes, shrimp casseroles and grilled seasonal fish highlight an unforgettable dinner. Centuries of viticulture Along with rakı, the delicious wines made from local Aegean grapes are the best accompaniment to seafood. Because of its soil and climate, the Aegean region is considered among the world’s most desirable geographies. Wherever you travel in the region, the roads will take you to centuries-old vineyards and their luscious grapes and wines. On your trip to the Aegean, you can explore these vineyards and make extraordinary discoveries. You can sample many internationally renowned Turkish wines in Urla, home to some of Izmir’s vineyard routes and Michelin-starred restaurants; in Sirince, named the “Best Tourism Village” by the UN Tourism last year; and in Bodrum, Türkiye’s premium holiday destination. oEmbark on a culinary journey along Türkiye’s Aegean coast Blessed thistle Vineyard grapes Bodrum Castle. – ALL PICS BY TURKIYE TOURISM PROMOTION AND DEVELOPMENT AGENCY Aerial view of Bodrum. Cunda. Visitors to the region will be privy to some beautiful wine-making faciities. Be ready for serious gastronomy delights when visiting this region of Turkiye. Wine tasting is a popular activity for tourists in the Aegean region of Turkiye. Mediterranean gastro magic Raki and fresh fish
LYFE LYFE TUESDAY | MAY 7, 2024 26 PREPARE to be swept away by the adrenaline-fueled world of Formula 1 as video streaming giant Netflix drops the first teaser for its muchanticipated biopic Senna. Released on April 30, the teaser promises a heart-pounding journey from start to finish. Senna dives deep into the illustrious career and fascinating life of Ayrton Senna, a true legend of motorsport. With 41 Grands Prix victories under his name, Senna’s legacy continues to inspire, even decades after his tragic passing at the age of 34 during the 1994 San Marino Grand Prix. Portraying the iconic driver is Gabriel Leone, who brings Senna’s story to life as the teaser offers a glimpse into Senna’s remarkable victory at the 1991 Brazilian Grand Prix, a race fraught with challenges as he battled through gearbox issues to clinch victory on his home turf in Interlagos, Sao Paulo. As the teaser unfolds, viewers are treated to snapshots of Senna’s emotional journey both on and off the track, capturing the essence of his unparalleled passion and determination. Set to unfold across six gripping episodes, Senna will trace the trajectory of his remarkable career, from his early days in Formula Ford to his triumphant moments on the world stage, tragically cut short in Imola, Italy. Joining Leone in this star-studded ensemble cast are talents like The Gentlemen’s Kaya Scodelario, Alice Wegmann, Camila Mardila, Hugo Bonemar, Nicolas Cruz and Susan Riberio. Helming the series as showrunner and co-director are Vicente Amorim and Julia Rezende, with production spearheaded by Fabiano Gullane and Caio Gullane in collaboration with Senna’s family and Senna Brands. Netflix has yet to unveil the release date of Senna. Netflix releases first trailer of Senna biopic █ BYHAZIQUE ZARILL Leone portrays the legendary Brazilian world champion and motorsport legend Senna. – NETFLIXPIC elephants are in danger from poachers, and how these criminal groups operate. Poacher focuses on how harming wildlife affects our environment, how organised crime plays a part, and how people often do not seem to care. Through Poacher, Mehta attempts to not only entertain but also provoke introspection and inspire action against the pervasive threat of wildlife crime. The series challenges audiences to confront uncomfortable truths and mobilise for change. Poacher stands as a beacon of hope, reminding us of our collective responsibility to protect and preserve the natural world for future generations. All episodes of Poacher are now available to stream on Prime Video. PRIME Video’s crime drama miniseries Poacher engages viewers in the dangerous world of wildlife crime, drawing inspiration from real-life events that have deeply impacted India’s conservation efforts. Director Richie Mehta offers an exclusive look behind the scenes, shedding light on the series’ origins and approach in an interview with theSun. Mehta’s journey with Poacher began with a pivotal moment during his 2015 documentary project in India. Footage of a significant ivory raid seized his attention, revealing the harsh reality of a secretive industry thriving amid the natural beauty of the subcontinent. Intrigued by the scale and consequences of the operation, Mehta went on years of exploration, compelled by a fervent desire to unravel the complex network of wildlife crime plaguing the region. The uncovering of a group illegally hunting ivory, acting without fear of consequences, inspired Mehta’s imaginative ideas. Poacher, far from being a mere crime drama, emerged as an impressive commentary on the human toll of environmental exploitation. Mehta’s storytelling transcends conventional genre boundaries, delving deep into the moral intricacies and societal repercussions of wildlife crime. Thinking about how the show was made, Mehta emphasises how serious the problem is. He researched and talked closely with real people working on wildlife conservation and poaching. Through this, he saw for himself the serious results of harming the environment without limits. The show feels real because it is not just based on court cases; it includes Mehta’s personal experiences that show how endangered species and ecosystems are in real danger. Poacher, as Mehta elucidates, is a call to action. Through meticulous storytelling and authentic portrayals, the series confronts audiences with the urgent moral imperative of safeguarding the planet’s precious biodiversity. By weaving together elements of suspense, drama and social commentary, Poacher transcends the confines of entertainment, serving as a powerful tool for advocacy and awareness. In casting Poacher, Mehta entrusted Mukesh Chhabra, his casting director, with the formidable task of identifying individuals who could authentically embody the essence of the characters. Seeking intangible qualities like selflessness, determination and an empathy for wildlife, Mehta prioritised actors capable of effortlessly inhabiting their roles. The casting process aimed to find the real essence of each character, making sure the series captures all its complex dynamics. Mehta was really drawn to the idea of making an exciting mystery story about something that everyone cares about. He wanted to show how serious it is when Prime Video’s crime drama oDirector Richie Mehta shares behind-the-scenes insights into Poacher Poacher is eightepisodes long. – PICS COURTESY OF PRIME VIDEO The series is inspired by real-life events. █ BYTHASHINE SELVAKUMARAN
SPORTS SPORTS TUESDAY | MAY 7, 2024 27 Narine powers KKR to top spot RED-HOT SUNIL Narine smashed 81 off 39 balls to help Kolkata Knight Riders thrash Lucknow Super Giants by 98 runs and take top spot in IPL table yesterday. Narine’s blitz, laced with six fours and seven sixes, guided Kolkata to 235-6 after they were invited to bat first in Lucknow’s final home game. Two-time champions Kolkata bowled out Lucknow for 137 in 16.1 overs for their eighth win in 11 matches and almost guaranteed a playoff berth. Second-placed Rajasthan Royals have played one match fewer. In the first game of the day, all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja starred with bat and ball to help holders Chennai Super Kings climb to third with a 28-run win over Punjab Kings. The top four teams will make the playoffs with the final on May 26 in Chennai. Narine, who has impressed after being promoted to open by Kolkata this season, led their batting charge in a 61-run first-wicket stand with Phil Salt. “He was splendid,” Kolkata skipper Shreyas Iyer. “The start from openers has been great. Pure bliss.” Lucknow’s Naveen-ul-Haq took three wickets to hurt KKR but Iyer, who made 23, and Ramandeep Singh, who hit a six-ball 25 not out, helped the team finish on a high. In the earlier match, Jadeja top-scored with 43 off 26 balls to guide Chennai to 167-9 batting first in Punjab’s adopted home ground of Dharamsala. Jadeja then returned figures of 3-20 from his four overs of left-arm spin to help restrict Punjab to 139-9 for Chennai’s sixth win in 11 matches. Bangladesh cruise to six-wicket win over Zimbabwe TOWHID HRIDOY top-scored with 37 as Bangladesh cruised to a six-wicket win over Zimbabwe in the second Twenty20 international in Chittagong yesterday, taking a 2-0 lead in the five-match series. The hosts eased their way to 142-4 in 18.3 overs, defying rain and some inspirational bowling from Zimbabwe after restricting the visitors to 138-7. Bangladesh seemed to be coasting when opener Liton Das (23) and skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto (16) took them to 56-1 before rain intervened for the second time in their innings to halt the momentum. Luke Jongwe (2-35) dismissed Najmul and Liton in the next over after the rain break to put Bangladesh under some pressure, which increased following Jaker Ali’s dismissal by Richard Ngarava for 13. But Hridoy and 38-year-old Mahmudullah Riyad, 26 not out, put on 49 runs for the fifth wicket to prevent a further slide and deny Zimbabwe. Debutant Johnathan Campbell earlier top scored for Zimbabwe with 45 off 24 balls after the visitors were asked to bat first – the highest ever score by a Zimbabwean appearing for the first time in a T20 international. SCAN ME TUESDAY MAY 7, 2024 TEL: 03-7784 6688 FAX: 03-7785 2625 EMAIL: [email protected] SHORTS Item Reg No Jenis & Model Tahun AM1 JRG4716 KIA CERATO 1.6 2015 AM2 SK9527C NISSAN NAVARA 2.5 PRO-4X 2021 AM3 PPG2677 PROTON SAGA 1.3 (A) 2020 AM4 JRR7558 PROTON SAGA 1.3 (A) 2016 AM5 AKS5026 SUBARU FORESTER 2.0 2016 AM6 AKV8507 VOLKSWAGEN VENTO 1.2 HIGHLINE 2017 AM7 SD1507R PERODUA MYVI 1.5 AV (A) 2021 AM8 WA3719F PERODUA VIVA 1.0 EZ 2014 FOCAL PARK SDN BHD (358698-H) NOTIS LELONG AWAM KENDERAAN UNTUK DILELONG SEPERTI SEDIA ADA TEMPAT & TARIKH LELONG : Northern Region (Alor Setar, Butterworth & Ipoh) 09-05-2024 (Khamis) Pukul 11:00pagi TARIKH MELIHAT : SEBELUM TIGA HARI LELONG (Pukul 9:00pagi - 4:00petang) PERTANYAAN (Tel): Butterworth 04-3567972, Alor Seter 04-787 7972, Ipoh 05-5293971 FPAC - PELELONG BERLESEN : a) Mr. Chew Wooi Kok , b) Mr. Steven Lim Peng Seng (01795), c) Pn Hasniza Binti Abu Samah (00919) Alamat : 352, Permatang Tok Jaya Maklom Sg Dua 13800 Butterworth. : Lot 138-A, Batu 5 Jalan Langgar 05460 Alor Setar : PT51683, Jalan Jelapang, Kws Perindustrian Tmn Meru 30020 Ipoh SILA LAYARI LAMAN WEB KAMI : http://www.focalpark.com.my (Perhatian: Kenderaan-kenderaan diatas yang tidak dibida dalam perlelongan akan dilelong semula pada 16-05-2024) IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF COMBINE VISION SDN BHD (199401016654 (302332-K)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT pursuant to Section 439(2) of the Companies Act, 2016, the Special Resolutions as set out below were duly passed by the members of COMBINE VISION SDN BHD (199401016654 (302332-K)) on 30 April 2024:- 1. THAT the Company be wound up voluntarily pursuant to Section 439(1)(b) of the Companies Act, 2016 and that Ms. Chong Ai Ling of SOHO Suites @ KLCC, Block A2, Level 32-3A, No. 20, Jalan Perak, 50450 Kuala Lumpur be and is hereby appointed as the liquidator of the Company for the purpose of such winding up. 2. THAT Ms. Chong Ai Ling, the Company’s Liquidator, be and is hereby authorised to distribute either in cash, specie or in kind any surplus assets of the Company as she shall think fit to the contributory of the Company in accordance with their respective rights and interests therein. Syed Mahfiz Bin Syed Ismail Director Dated this 7th day of May 2024 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF COMBINE VISION SDN BHD (199401016654 (302332-K)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the Creditors of the abovementioned Company, which is being wound up voluntarily, are required, to send in their names and addresses on or before 8 June 2024, with particulars of their debts or claims and the names and addresses of their solicitors (if any) to:- The Liquidator COMBINE VISION SDN BHD (199401016654 (302332-K)) SOHO Suites @ KLCC Block A2, Level 32-3A No. 20, Jalan Perak 50450 Kuala Lumpur and, if so required by notice in writing from the said Liquidator, or by their solicitors 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 benefits of any distribution made before such debts and claims are proved. Chong Ai Ling Liquidator Dated this 7th day of May 2024 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF PELANTAR EFEKTIF (M) SDN BHD (199201018631 (250135-K)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT pursuant to Section 439(2) of the Companies Act, 2016, the Special Resolutions as set out below were duly passed by the members of PELANTAR EFEKTIF (M) SDN BHD [199201018631 (250135-K)] on 30 April 2024:- 1. THAT the Company be wound up voluntarily pursuant to Section 439(1)(b) of the Companies Act, 2016 and that Ms. Chong Ai Ling of SOHO Suites @ KLCC, Block A2, Level 32-3A, No. 20, Jalan Perak, 50450 Kuala Lumpur be and is hereby appointed as the liquidator of the Company for the purpose of such winding up. 2. THAT Ms. Chong Ai Ling, the Company’s Liquidator, be and is hereby authorised to distribute either in cash, specie or in kind any surplus assets of the Company as she shall think fit to the contributory of the Company in accordance with their respective rights and interests therein. Azman Hanafi bin Abdullah Director Dated this 7th day of May 2024 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF PELANTAR EFEKTIF (M) SDN BHD (199201018631 (250135-K)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the Creditors of the abovementioned Company, which is being wound up voluntarily, are required, to send in their names and addresses on or before 8 June 2024, with particulars of their debts or claims and the names and addresses of their solicitors (if any) to:- The Liquidator PELANTAR EFEKTIF (M) SDN BHD (199201018631 (250135-K)) SOHO Suites @ KLCC Block A2, Level 32-3A No. 20, Jalan Perak 50450 Kuala Lumpur and, if so required by notice in writing from the said Liquidator, or by their solicitors 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 benefits of any distribution made before such debts and claims are proved. Chong Ai Ling Liquidator Dated this 7th day of May 2024 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF TANAH MAJU SDN BHD (199401012775 (298454-H)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT pursuant to Section 439(2) of the Companies Act, 2016, the Special Resolutions as set out below were duly passed by the members of TANAH MAJU SDN BHD (199401012775 (298454-H)) on 30 April 2024:- 1. THAT the Company be wound up voluntarily pursuant to Section 439(1)(b) of the Companies Act, 2016 and that Ms. Chong Ai Ling of SOHO Suites @ KLCC, Block A2, Level 32-3A, No. 20, Jalan Perak, 50450 Kuala Lumpur be and is hereby appointed as the liquidator of the Company for the purpose of such winding up. 2. THAT Ms. Chong Ai Ling, the Company’s Liquidator, be and is hereby authorised to distribute either in cash, specie or in kind any surplus assets of the Company as she shall think fit to the contributory of the Company in accordance with their respective rights and interests therein. Hasnol Hadi Bin Md Khaidzir Director Dated this 7th day of May 2024 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF TANAH MAJU SDN BHD (199401012775 (298454-H)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the Creditors of the abovementioned Company, which is being wound up voluntarily, are required, to send in their names and addresses on or before 8 June 2024, with particulars of their debts or claims and the names and addresses of their solicitors (if any) to:- The Liquidator TANAH MAJU SDN BHD (199401012775 (298454-H)) SOHO Suites @ KLCC Block A2, Level 32-3A No. 20, Jalan Perak 50450 Kuala Lumpur and, if so required by notice in writing from the said Liquidator, or by their solicitors 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 benefits of any distribution made before such debts and claims are proved. Chong Ai Ling Liquidator Dated this 7th day of May 2024 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF KIARA TERATAI SDN BHD (200401003980 (642483-K)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT pursuant to Section 439(2) of the Companies Act, 2016, the Special Resolutions as set out below were duly passed by the members of KIARA TERATAI SDN BHD (200401003980 (642483-K)) 30 April 2024:- 1. THAT the Company be wound up voluntarily pursuant to Section 439(1)(b) of the Companies Act, 2016 and that Ms. Chong Ai Ling of SOHO Suites @ KLCC, Block A2, Level 32-3A, No. 20, Jalan Perak, 50450 Kuala Lumpur be and is hereby appointed as the liquidator of the Company for the purpose of such winding up. 2. THAT Ms. Chong Ai Ling, the Company’s Liquidator, be and is hereby authorised to distribute either in cash, specie or in kind any surplus assets of the Company as she shall think fit to the contributory of the Company in accordance with their respective rights and interests therein. Ahmad Zaed Bin Saleh Hamdi Director Dated this 7th day of May 2024 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF KIARA TERATAI SDN BHD (200401003980 (642483-K)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the Creditors of the abovementioned Company, which is being wound up voluntarily, are required, to send in their names and addresses on or before 8 June 2024, with particulars of their debts or claims and the names and addresses of their solicitors (if any) to:- The Liquidator KIARA TERATAI SDN BHD (200401003980 (642483-K)) SOHO Suites @ KLCC Block A2, Level 32-3A No. 20, Jalan Perak 50450 Kuala Lumpur and, if so required by notice in writing from the said Liquidator, or by their solicitors 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 benefits of any distribution made before such debts and claims are proved. Chong Ai Ling Liquidator Dated this 7th day of May 2024 322 Notices 322 Notices 322 Notices 322 Notices IN THE MATTER OF COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF KIANG KEAT HOLDINGS SDN. BHD Company No. 200701003157 (761155-A) (Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to Section 439(2)(a) of the Companies Act, 2016, the resolutions set out below were duly passed by the Members of the Company on the 2nd May 2024: - Special Resolution ‘That KIANG KEAT HOLDINGS SDN. BHD. will be liquidated by way of members’ voluntary winding up. Ordinary Resolution That TAN CHOON HEE (NRIC No. 651026- 08-5559) of NO. 18-5-1, JALAN 5/101C, BLOK A, CHERAS BUSINESS CENTRE, BATU 5, JALAN CHERAS, 56100 KUALA LUMPUR, W.P. KUALA LUMPUR be appointed as Liquidator to act for the purpose of winding up the company’s affairs and distributing its’ assets’ TAN CHOON HEE TAN WAN MEI All Directors AND NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Creditors of the abovementioned Company which being wound up voluntarily are required on or before 7th June 2024 to send in their names and addresses and the particulars of their debts or claims and of any security held by them, and the names and addresses of their solicitors (if any), to the undersigned Liquidator, and if so required by notice in writing from their solicitors or personally come and prove their debts or claims at such time and place as shall be specified in such notice or in default thereof, they will be excluded from the benefit of any distribution made before such debts are proved. Dated this 7th day of May 2024 TAN CHOON HEE Liquidator NO. 18-5-1, JALAN 5/101C, BLOK A, CHERAS BUSINESS CENTRE, BATU 5, JALAN CHERAS, 56100 KUALA LUMPUR, W.P. KUALA LUMPUR. IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF SYARIKAT KUMPULAN SHAHS SDN BHD [198301011786 (107178-T)] (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT pursuant to Section 439(2) of the Companies Act, 2016, the Special Resolutions as set out below were duly passed by the members of SYARIKAT KUMPULAN SHAHS SDN BHD (198301011786 (107178-T)) on 30 April 2024:- 1. THAT the Company be wound up voluntarily pursuant to Section 439(1)(b) of the Companies Act, 2016 and that Ms. Chong Ai Ling of SOHO Suites @ KLCC, Block A2, Level 32-3A, No. 20, Jalan Perak, 50450 Kuala Lumpur be and is hereby appointed as the liquidator of the Company for the purpose of such winding up. 2. THAT Ms. Chong Ai Ling, the Company’s Liquidator, be and is hereby authorised to distribute either in cash, specie or in kind any surplus assets of the Company as she shall think fit to the contributory of the Company in accordance with their respective rights and interests therein. Azman Hanafi bin Abdullah Director Dated this 7th day of May 2024 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF SYARIKAT KUMPULAN SHAHS SDN BHD [198301011786 (107178-T)] (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the Creditors of the abovementioned Company, which is being wound up voluntarily, are required, to send in their names and addresses on or before 8 June 2024, with particulars of their debts or claims and the names and addresses of their solicitors (if any) to:- The Liquidator SYARIKAT KUMPULAN SHAHS SDN BHD [198301011786 (107178-T)] SOHO Suites @ KLCC Block A2, Level 32-3A No. 20, Jalan Perak 50450 Kuala Lumpur and, if so required by notice in writing from the said Liquidator, or by their solicitors 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 benefits of any distribution made before such debts and claims are proved. Chong Ai Ling Liquidator Dated this 7th day of May 2024 IN THE MATTER OF COMPANIES ACT 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF FORLEASE SDN. BHD. (In Members’ Voluntary Winding Up) [Registration No. 197401002208 (19245-H)] NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Final Meeting of the member(s) of the abovenamed Company will be held at 64, Cantonment Road, 10250 George Town, Pulau Pinang on June 6, 2024 at 10.00 a.m. to consider, and if thought fit, to pass the following resolutions:- ORDINARY RESOLUTION – To receive the accounts of the Liquidator showing the manner in which the winding up has been conducted to date and to dissolve the Company. SPECIAL RESOLUTION - “RESOLVED that the books, accounts and documents of the Company and of the Liquidator, shall be kept for a period of three months from June 6, 2024 to September 5, 2024 and thereafter such books, accounts and documents be destroyed.” Dated this 7th day of May, 2024. Liquidator Saw Khai Phin 322 Notices ADVERTISING SALES & MARKETING EXECUTIVE / SENIOR EXECUTIVE Job Description: • Building and sustaining strong working relationship with advertising clients. • Plan and executive new, creative, exciting and innovative marketing campaigns for the company. • Develop and continuously improve marketing material, product/services presentations and proposals. • Passionate in serving client accounts to improve sales revenue. Requirement: • Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in business, marketing or other related fields. • At least 2 years of sales and marketing experience in media industry. • Good communication, presentation, problem-solving and organisational skills. • Possess own transport and willing to travel. • Able to start work immediately. Submit your CV with your photo via e-mail to: [email protected] Office based in Petaling Jaya (5-day week) WE ARE HIRING Manager – Finance and HR Job Description: • To handle full set of accounts, month-end closing, yearend closing, audit schedules, tax, stock control, etc • Responsible for management, statutory and group reporting, development of business plans, budget and cash flow forecast. • Oversee recruitment, manage payroll system, staff benefit, yearly performance and appraisal. • Develop & implement HR policies to support company business objectives and compliance with law and regulatory requirements. • To handle legal and disciplinary matters including staff counselling in compliance with local Labour Law. • Other administration duties where required and part of job scope. • Any other duties as assigned by the superior / management from time to time. Requirements: • Candidate must possess at least Professional or Degree in Finance/Accountancy or equivalent. • At least 5 years managerial/supervising of working experience in audit, financial accounting and HR. • Familiarity with Accpac, ERP Accounting & HR software would be added advantages. • Computer literate and skillful in Ms Excel, Word & PowerPoint. • Good command of written and spoken English. Proficiency in Bahasa Malaysia & Mandarin will be added advantages. closing, audit schedules, tax, stock control, etc. CALL TO PLACE CLASSIFIED ADS MS. SHOBA / MS. BALQISH 03 7784 8888 018 261 6626 [email protected] Item Reg No Jenis & Model Tahun AM1 JRG4716 KIA CERATO 1.6 2015 AM2 SK9527C NISSAN NAVARA 2.5 PRO-4X 2021 AM3 PPG2677 PROTON SAGA 1.3 (A) 2020 AM4 JRR7558 PROTON SAGA 1.3 (A) 2016 AM5 AKS5026 SUBARU FORESTER 2.0 2016 AM6 AKV8507 VOLKSWAGEN VENTO 1.2 HIGHLINE 2017 AM7 SD1507R PERODUA MYVI 1.5 AV (A) 2021 AM8 WA3719F PERODUA VIVA 1.0 EZ 2014 FOCAL PARK SDN BHD (358698-H) NOTIS LELONG AWAM KENDERAAN UNTUK DILELONG SEPERTI SEDIA ADA TEMPAT & TARIKH LELONG : Northern Region (Alor Setar, Butterworth & Ipoh) 09-05-2024 (Khamis) Pukul 11:00pagi TARIKH MELIHAT : SEBELUM TIGA HARI LELONG (Pukul 9:00pagi - 4:00petang) PERTANYAAN (Tel): Butterworth 04-3567972, Alor Seter 04-787 7972, Ipoh 05-5293971 FPAC - PELELONG BERLESEN : a) Mr. Chew Wooi Kok , b) Mr. Steven Lim Peng Seng (01795), c) Pn Hasniza Binti Abu Samah (00919) Alamat : 352, Permatang Tok Jaya Maklom Sg Dua 13800 Butterworth. : Lot 138-A, Batu 5 Jalan Langgar 05460 Alor Setar : PT51683, Jalan Jelapang, Kws Perindustrian Tmn Meru 30020 Ipoh SILA LAYARI LAMAN WEB KAMI : http://www.focalpark.com.my (Perhatian: Kenderaan-kenderaan diatas yang tidak dibida dalam perlelongan akan dilelong semula pada 16-05-2024) IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF COMBINE VISION SDN BHD (199401016654 (302332-K)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT pursuant to Section 439(2) of the Companies Act, 2016, the Special Resolutions as set out below were duly passed by the members of COMBINE VISION SDN BHD (199401016654 (302332-K)) on 30 April 2024:- 1. THAT the Company be wound up voluntarily pursuant to Section 439(1)(b) of the Companies Act, 2016 and that Ms. Chong Ai Ling of SOHO Suites @ KLCC, Block A2, Level 32-3A, No. 20, Jalan Perak, 50450 Kuala Lumpur be and is hereby appointed as the liquidator of the Company for the purpose of such winding up. 2. THAT Ms. Chong Ai Ling, the Company’s Liquidator, be and is hereby authorised to distribute either in cash, specie or in kind any surplus assets of the Company as she shall think fit to the contributory of the Company in accordance with their respective rights and interests therein. Syed Mahfiz Bin Syed Ismail Director Dated this 7th day of May 2024 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF COMBINE VISION SDN BHD (199401016654 (302332-K)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the Creditors of the abovementioned Company, which is being wound up voluntarily, are required, to send in their names and addresses on or before 8 June 2024, with particulars of their debts or claims and the names and addresses of their solicitors (if any) to:- The Liquidator COMBINE VISION SDN BHD (199401016654 (302332-K)) SOHO Suites @ KLCC Block A2, Level 32-3A No. 20, Jalan Perak 50450 Kuala Lumpur and, if so required by notice in writing from the said Liquidator, or by their solicitors 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 benefits of any distribution made before such debts and claims are proved. Chong Ai Ling Liquidator Dated this 7th day of May 2024 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF PELANTAR EFEKTIF (M) SDN BHD (199201018631 (250135-K)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT pursuant to Section 439(2) of the Companies Act, 2016, the Special Resolutions as set out below were duly passed by the members of PELANTAR EFEKTIF (M) SDN BHD [199201018631 (250135-K)] on 30 April 2024:- 1. THAT the Company be wound up voluntarily pursuant to Section 439(1)(b) of the Companies Act, 2016 and that Ms. Chong Ai Ling of SOHO Suites @ KLCC, Block A2, Level 32-3A, No. 20, Jalan Perak, 50450 Kuala Lumpur be and is hereby appointed as the liquidator of the Company for the purpose of such winding up. 2. THAT Ms. Chong Ai Ling, the Company’s Liquidator, be and is hereby authorised to distribute either in cash, specie or in kind any surplus assets of the Company as she shall think fit to the contributory of the Company in accordance with their respective rights and interests therein. Azman Hanafi bin Abdullah Director Dated this 7th day of May 2024 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF PELANTAR EFEKTIF (M) SDN BHD (199201018631 (250135-K)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the Creditors of the abovementioned Company, which is being wound up voluntarily, are required, to send in their names and addresses on or before 8 June 2024, with particulars of their debts or claims and the names and addresses of their solicitors (if any) to:- The Liquidator PELANTAR EFEKTIF (M) SDN BHD (199201018631 (250135-K)) SOHO Suites @ KLCC Block A2, Level 32-3A No. 20, Jalan Perak 50450 Kuala Lumpur and, if so required by notice in writing from the said Liquidator, or by their solicitors 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 benefits of any distribution made before such debts and claims are proved. Chong Ai Ling Liquidator Dated this 7th day of May 2024 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF TANAH MAJU SDN BHD (199401012775 (298454-H)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT pursuant to Section 439(2) of the Companies Act, 2016, the Special Resolutions as set out below were duly passed by the members of TANAH MAJU SDN BHD (199401012775 (298454-H)) on 30 April 2024:- 1. THAT the Company be wound up voluntarily pursuant to Section 439(1)(b) of the Companies Act, 2016 and that Ms. Chong Ai Ling of SOHO Suites @ KLCC, Block A2, Level 32-3A, No. 20, Jalan Perak, 50450 Kuala Lumpur be and is hereby appointed as the liquidator of the Company for the purpose of such winding up. 2. THAT Ms. Chong Ai Ling, the Company’s Liquidator, be and is hereby authorised to distribute either in cash, specie or in kind any surplus assets of the Company as she shall think fit to the contributory of the Company in accordance with their respective rights and interests therein. Hasnol Hadi Bin Md Khaidzir Director Dated this 7th day of May 2024 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF TANAH MAJU SDN BHD (199401012775 (298454-H)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the Creditors of the abovementioned Company, which is being wound up voluntarily, are required, to send in their names and addresses on or before 8 June 2024, with particulars of their debts or claims and the names and addresses of their solicitors (if any) to:- The Liquidator TANAH MAJU SDN BHD (199401012775 (298454-H)) SOHO Suites @ KLCC Block A2, Level 32-3A No. 20, Jalan Perak 50450 Kuala Lumpur and, if so required by notice in writing from the said Liquidator, or by their solicitors 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 benefits of any distribution made before such debts and claims are proved. Chong Ai Ling Liquidator Dated this 7th day of May 2024 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF KIARA TERATAI SDN BHD (200401003980 (642483-K)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT pursuant to Section 439(2) of the Companies Act, 2016, the Special Resolutions as set out below were duly passed by the members of KIARA TERATAI SDN BHD (200401003980 (642483-K)) 30 April 2024:- 1. THAT the Company be wound up voluntarily pursuant to Section 439(1)(b) of the Companies Act, 2016 and that Ms. Chong Ai Ling of SOHO Suites @ KLCC, Block A2, Level 32-3A, No. 20, Jalan Perak, 50450 Kuala Lumpur be and is hereby appointed as the liquidator of the Company for the purpose of such winding up. 2. THAT Ms. Chong Ai Ling, the Company’s Liquidator, be and is hereby authorised to distribute either in cash, specie or in kind any surplus assets of the Company as she shall think fit to the contributory of the Company in accordance with their respective rights and interests therein. Ahmad Zaed Bin Saleh Hamdi Director Dated this 7th day of May 2024 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF KIARA TERATAI SDN BHD (200401003980 (642483-K)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the Creditors of the abovementioned Company, which is being wound up voluntarily, are required, to send in their names and addresses on or before 8 June 2024, with particulars of their debts or claims and the names and addresses of their solicitors (if any) to:- The Liquidator KIARA TERATAI SDN BHD (200401003980 (642483-K)) SOHO Suites @ KLCC Block A2, Level 32-3A No. 20, Jalan Perak 50450 Kuala Lumpur and, if so required by notice in writing from the said Liquidator, or by their solicitors 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 benefits of any distribution made before such debts and claims are proved. Chong Ai Ling Liquidator Dated this 7th day of May 2024 322 Notices 322 Notices 322 Notices 322 Notices IN THE MATTER OF COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF KIANG KEAT HOLDINGS SDN. BHD Company No. 200701003157 (761155-A) (Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to Section 439(2)(a) of the Companies Act, 2016, the resolutions set out below were duly passed by the Members of the Company on the 2nd May 2024: - Special Resolution ‘That KIANG KEAT HOLDINGS SDN. BHD. will be liquidated by way of members’ voluntary winding up. Ordinary Resolution That TAN CHOON HEE (NRIC No. 651026- 08-5559) of NO. 18-5-1, JALAN 5/101C, BLOK A, CHERAS BUSINESS CENTRE, BATU 5, JALAN CHERAS, 56100 KUALA LUMPUR, W.P. KUALA LUMPUR be appointed as Liquidator to act for the purpose of winding up the company’s affairs and distributing its’ assets’ TAN CHOON HEE TAN WAN MEI All Directors AND NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Creditors of the abovementioned Company which being wound up voluntarily are required on or before 7th June 2024 to send in their names and addresses and the particulars of their debts or claims and of any security held by them, and the names and addresses of their solicitors (if any), to the undersigned Liquidator, and if so required by notice in writing from their solicitors or personally come and prove their debts or claims at such time and place as shall be specified in such notice or in default thereof, they will be excluded from the benefit of any distribution made before such debts are proved. Dated this 7th day of May 2024 TAN CHOON HEE Liquidator NO. 18-5-1, JALAN 5/101C, BLOK A, CHERAS BUSINESS CENTRE, BATU 5, JALAN CHERAS, 56100 KUALA LUMPUR, W.P. KUALA LUMPUR. IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF SYARIKAT KUMPULAN SHAHS SDN BHD [198301011786 (107178-T)] (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT pursuant to Section 439(2) of the Companies Act, 2016, the Special Resolutions as set out below were duly passed by the members of SYARIKAT KUMPULAN SHAHS SDN BHD (198301011786 (107178-T)) on 30 April 2024:- 1. THAT the Company be wound up voluntarily pursuant to Section 439(1)(b) of the Companies Act, 2016 and that Ms. Chong Ai Ling of SOHO Suites @ KLCC, Block A2, Level 32-3A, No. 20, Jalan Perak, 50450 Kuala Lumpur be and is hereby appointed as the liquidator of the Company for the purpose of such winding up. 2. THAT Ms. Chong Ai Ling, the Company’s Liquidator, be and is hereby authorised to distribute either in cash, specie or in kind any surplus assets of the Company as she shall think fit to the contributory of the Company in accordance with their respective rights and interests therein. Azman Hanafi bin Abdullah Director Dated this 7th day of May 2024 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF SYARIKAT KUMPULAN SHAHS SDN BHD [198301011786 (107178-T)] (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the Creditors of the abovementioned Company, which is being wound up voluntarily, are required, to send in their names and addresses on or before 8 June 2024, with particulars of their debts or claims and the names and addresses of their solicitors (if any) to:- The Liquidator SYARIKAT KUMPULAN SHAHS SDN BHD [198301011786 (107178-T)] SOHO Suites @ KLCC Block A2, Level 32-3A No. 20, Jalan Perak 50450 Kuala Lumpur and, if so required by notice in writing from the said Liquidator, or by their solicitors 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 benefits of any distribution made before such debts and claims are proved. Chong Ai Ling Liquidator Dated this 7th day of May 2024 IN THE MATTER OF COMPANIES ACT 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF FORLEASE SDN. BHD. (In Members’ Voluntary Winding Up) [Registration No. 197401002208 (19245-H)] NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Final Meeting of the member(s) of the abovenamed Company will be held at 64, Cantonment Road, 10250 George Town, Pulau Pinang on June 6, 2024 at 10.00 a.m. to consider, and if thought fit, to pass the following resolutions:- ORDINARY RESOLUTION – To receive the accounts of the Liquidator showing the manner in which the winding up has been conducted to date and to dissolve the Company. SPECIAL RESOLUTION - “RESOLVED that the books, accounts and documents of the Company and of the Liquidator, shall be kept for a period of three months from June 6, 2024 to September 5, 2024 and thereafter such books, accounts and documents be destroyed.” Dated this 7th day of May, 2024. Liquidator Saw Khai Phin 322 Notices ADVERTISING SALES & MARKETING EXECUTIVE / SENIOR EXECUTIVE Job Description: • Building and sustaining strong working relationship with advertising clients. • Plan and executive new, creative, exciting and innovative marketing campaigns for the company. • Develop and continuously improve marketing material, product/services presentations and proposals. • Passionate in serving client accounts to improve sales revenue. Requirement: • Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in business, marketing or other related fields. • At least 2 years of sales and marketing experience in media industry. • Good communication, presentation, problem-solving and organisational skills. • Possess own transport and willing to travel. • Able to start work immediately. Submit your CV with your photo via e-mail to: [email protected] Office based in Petaling Jaya (5-day week) WE ARE HIRING Manager – Finance and HR Job Description: • To handle full set of accounts, month-end closing, yearend closing, audit schedules, tax, stock control, etc • Responsible for management, statutory and group reporting, development of business plans, budget and cash flow forecast. • Oversee recruitment, manage payroll system, staff benefit, yearly performance and appraisal. • Develop & implement HR policies to support company business objectives and compliance with law and regulatory requirements. • To handle legal and disciplinary matters including staff counselling in compliance with local Labour Law. • Other administration duties where required and part of job scope. • Any other duties as assigned by the superior / management from time to time. Requirements: • Candidate must possess at least Professional or Degree in Finance/Accountancy or equivalent. • At least 5 years managerial/supervising of working experience in audit, financial accounting and HR. • Familiarity with Accpac, ERP Accounting & HR software would be added advantages. • Computer literate and skillful in Ms Excel, Word & PowerPoint. • Good command of written and spoken English. Proficiency in Bahasa Malaysia & Mandarin will be added advantages. closing, audit schedules, tax, stock control, etc. CALL TO PLACE CLASSIFIED ADS MS. SHOBA / MS. BALQISH 03 7784 8888 018 261 6626 [email protected]
SPORTS SPORTS TUESDAY | MAY 7, 2024 28 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF MOONPAC RESOURCES SDN BHD (199201019983 (251487-H)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT pursuant to Section 439(2) of the Companies Act, 2016, the Special Resolutions as set out below were duly passed by the members of MOONPAC RESOURCES SDN BHD [199201019983 (251487-H)] on 30 April 2024:- 1. THAT the Company be wound up voluntarily pursuant to Section 439(1)(b) of the Companies Act, 2016 and that Ms. Chong Ai Ling of SOHO Suites @ KLCC, Block A2, Level 32-3A, No. 20, Jalan Perak, 50450 Kuala Lumpur be and is hereby appointed as the liquidator of the Company for the purpose of such winding up. 2. THAT Ms. Chong Ai Ling, the Company’s Liquidator, be and is hereby authorised to distribute either in cash, specie or in kind any surplus assets of the Company as she shall think fit to the contributory of the Company in accordance with their respective rights and interests therein. Azman Hanafi Bin Abdullah Director Dated this 7th day of May 2024 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF MOONPAC RESOURCES SDN BHD (199201019983 (251487-H)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the Creditors of the abovementioned Company, which is being wound up voluntarily, are required, to send in their names and addresses on or before 8 June 2024, with particulars of their debts or claims and the names and addresses of their solicitors (if any) to:- The Liquidator MOONPAC RESOURCES SDN BHD (199201019983 (251487-H)) SOHO Suites @ KLCC Block A2, Level 32-3A No. 20, Jalan Perak 50450 Kuala Lumpur and, if so required by notice in writing from the said Liquidator, or by their solicitors 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 benefits of any distribution made before such debts and claims are proved. Chong Ai Ling Liquidator Dated this 7th day of May 2024 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF IMPIAN KIRANA SDN. BHD. (200301004710 (607130-M)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT pursuant to Section 439(2) of the Companies Act, 2016, the Special Resolutions as set out below were duly passed by the members of IMPIAN KIRANA SDN. BHD. (200301004710 (607130-M)) on 30 April 2024:- 1. THAT the Company be wound up voluntarily pursuant to Section 439(1)(b) of the Companies Act, 2016 and that Ms. Chong Ai Ling of SOHO Suites @ KLCC, Block A2, Level 32-3A, No. 20, Jalan Perak, 50450 Kuala Lumpur be and is hereby appointed as the liquidator of the Company for the purpose of such winding up. 2. THAT Ms. Chong Ai Ling, the Company’s Liquidator, be and is hereby authorised to distribute either in cash, specie or in kind any surplus assets of the Company as she shall think fit to the contributory of the Company in accordance with their respective rights and interests therein. AHMAD SALEH BIN SALEH HAMDI Director Dated this 7th day of May 2024 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF IMPIAN KIRANA SDN. BHD. (200301004710 (607130-M)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the Creditors of the abovementioned Company, which is being wound up voluntarily, are required, to send in their names and addresses on or before 8 June 2024 with particulars of their debts or claims and the names and addresses of their solicitors (if any) to:- The Liquidator IMPIAN KIRANA SDN. BHD. (200301004710 (607130-M)) SOHO Suites @ KLCC Block A2, Level 32-3A No. 20, Jalan Perak 50450 Kuala Lumpur and, if so required by notice in writing from the said Liquidator, or by their solicitors 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 benefits of any distribution made before such debts and claims are proved. Chong Ai Ling Liquidator Dated this 7th day of May 2024 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF KEMBANG TERSEBAR SDN BHD (199401013208 (298887-M)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT pursuant to Section 439(2) of the Companies Act, 2016, the Special Resolutions as set out below were duly passed by the members of KEMBANG TERSEBAR SDN BHD (199401013208 (298887-M)) on 30 April 2024:- 1. THAT the Company be wound up voluntarily pursuant to Section 439(1)(b) of the Companies Act, 2016 and that Ms. Chong Ai Ling of SOHO Suites @ KLCC, Block A2, Level 32-3A, No. 20, Jalan Perak, 50450 Kuala Lumpur be and is hereby appointed as the liquidator of the Company for the purpose of such winding up. 2. THAT Ms. Chong Ai Ling, the Company’s Liquidator, be and is hereby authorised to distribute either in cash, specie or in kind any surplus assets of the Company as she shall think fit to the contributory of the Company in accordance with their respective rights and interests therein. Ahmad Zaed Bin Saleh Hamdi Director Dated this 7th day of May 2024 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF KEMBANG TERSEBAR SDN BHD (199401013208 (298887-M)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the Creditors of the abovementioned Company, which is being wound up voluntarily, are required, to send in their names and addresses on or before 8 June 2024, with particulars of their debts or claims and the names and addresses of their solicitors (if any) to:- The Liquidator KEMBANG TERSEBAR SDN BHD (199401013208 (298887-M)) SOHO Suites @ KLCC Block A2, Level 32-3A No. 20, Jalan Perak 50450 Kuala Lumpur and, if so required by notice in writing from the said Liquidator, or by their solicitors 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 benefits of any distribution made before such debts and claims are proved. Chong Ai Ling Liquidator Dated this 7th day of May 2024 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF BARISAN NOBLE SDN BHD (200501020406 (702530-P)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT pursuant to Section 439(2) of the Companies Act, 2016, the Special Resolutions as set out below were duly passed by the members of BARISAN NOBLE SDN BHD (200501020406 (702530-P)) on 30 April 2024:- 1. THAT the Company be wound up voluntarily pursuant to Section 439(1)(b) of the Companies Act, 2016 and that Ms. Chong Ai Ling of SOHO Suites @ KLCC, Block A2, Level 32-3A, No. 20, Jalan Perak, 50450 Kuala Lumpur be and is hereby appointed as the liquidator of the Company for the purpose of such winding up. 2. THAT Ms. Chong Ai Ling, the Company’s Liquidator, be and is hereby authorised to distribute either in cash, specie or in kind any surplus assets of the Company as she shall think fit to the contributory of the Company in accordance with their respective rights and interests therein. Ahmad Zaed Bin Saleh Hamdi Director Dated this 7th day of May 2024 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF BARISAN NOBLE SDN BHD (200501020406 (702530-P)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the Creditors of the abovementioned Company, which is being wound up voluntarily, are required, to send in their names and addresses on or before 8 June 2024, with particulars of their debts or claims and the names and addresses of their solicitors (if any) to:- The Liquidator BARISAN NOBLE SDN BHD (200501020406 (702530-P)) SOHO Suites @ KLCC Block A2, Level 32-3A No. 20, Jalan Perak 50450 Kuala Lumpur and, if so required by notice in writing from the said Liquidator, or by their solicitors 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 benefits of any distribution made before such debts and claims are proved. Chong Ai Ling Liquidator Dated this 7th day of May 2024 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF ETIKA SETIA (M) SDN BHD 199301000962 (255699-T)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT pursuant to Section 439(2) of the Companies Act, 2016, the Special Resolutions as set out below were duly passed by the members of ETIKA SETIA (M) SDN BHD 199301000962 (255699-T)) on 30 April 2024:- 1. THAT the Company be wound up voluntarily pursuant to Section 439(1)(b) of the Companies Act, 2016 and that Ms. Chong Ai Ling of SOHO Suites @ KLCC, Block A2, Level 32-3A, No. 20, Jalan Perak, 50450 Kuala Lumpur be and is hereby appointed as the liquidator of the Company for the purpose of such winding up. 2. THAT Ms. Chong Ai Ling, the Company’s Liquidator, be and is hereby authorised to distribute either in cash, specie or in kind any surplus assets of the Company as she shall think fit to the contributory of the Company in accordance with their respective rights and interests therein. Rais Bin Hasnan Director Dated this 7th day of May 2024 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF ETIKA SETIA (M) SDN BHD 199301000962 (255699-T)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the Creditors of the abovementioned Company, which is being wound up voluntarily, are required, to send in their names and addresses on or before 8 June 2024, with particulars of their debts or claims and the names and addresses of their solicitors (if any) to:- The Liquidator ETIKA SETIA (M) SDN BHD 199301000962 (255699-T)) SOHO Suites @ KLCC Block A2, Level 32-3A No. 20, Jalan Perak 50450 Kuala Lumpur and, if so required by notice in writing from the said Liquidator, or by their solicitors 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 benefits of any distribution made before such debts and claims are proved. Chong Ai Ling Liquidator Dated this 7th day of May 2024 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF FOCUSREX SDN BHD (200401032976 (671484-V)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT pursuant to Section 439(2) of the Companies Act, 2016, the Special Resolutions as set out below were duly passed by the members of FOCUSREX SDN BHD (200401032976 (671484-V)) on 30 April 2024:- 1. THAT the Company be wound up voluntarily pursuant to Section 439(1)(b) of the Companies Act, 2016 and that Ms. Chong Ai Ling of SOHO Suites @ KLCC, Block A2, Level 32-3A, No. 20, Jalan Perak, 50450 Kuala Lumpur be and is hereby appointed as the liquidator of the Company for the purpose of such winding up. 2. THAT Ms. Chong Ai Ling, the Company’s Liquidator, be and is hereby authorised to distribute either in cash, specie or in kind any surplus assets of the Company as she shall think fit to the contributory of the Company in accordance with their respective rights and interests therein. Azman Hanafi Bin Abdullah Director Dated this 7th day of May 2024 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF FOCUSREX SDN BHD (200401032976 (671484-V)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the Creditors of the abovementioned Company, which is being wound up voluntarily, are required, to send in their names and addresses on or before 8 June 2024, with particulars of their debts or claims and the names and addresses of their solicitors (if any) to:- The Liquidator FOCUSREX SDN BHD (200401032976 (671484-V)) SOHO Suites @ KLCC Block A2, Level 32-3A No. 20, Jalan Perak 50450 Kuala Lumpur and, if so required by notice in writing from the said Liquidator, or by their solicitors 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 benefits of any distribution made before such debts and claims are proved. Chong Ai Ling Liquidator Dated this 7th day May 2024 322 Notices 322 Notices 322 Notices 322 Notices 322 Notices 322 Notices Norris reveals celebration plans after Miami win MIAMI GP (Top 10): 1. Lando Norris (McLaren), 2. Max Verstappen (Red Bull), 3. Charles Leclerc (Ferrari), 4.Sergio Perez (Red Bull), 5. Carlos Sainz Jr (Ferrari), 6. Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes), 7. Yuki Tsunoda (Racing Bulls), 8. George Russell (Mercedes), 9. Fernando Alonso (Aston Martin), 10. Esteban Ocon (Alpine). FASTEST LAP: Oscar Piastri (McLaren) WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP STANDINGS (TOP 5) DRIVERS: 1. Max Verstappen (NED) 136pts, 2. Sergio Perez (MEX) 103, 3. Charles Leclerc (MON) 98, 4. Carlos Sainz Jr (ESP) 83, 5. Lando Norris (GBR) 83. CONSTRUCTORS: 1. Red Bull 239pts, 2. Ferrari 187, 3. McLaren 124, 4. Mercedes 64, 5. Aston Martin 42. SHORTS Pendrith clinches maiden win TAYLOR PENDRITH survived a couple of sharp twists and turns on his way to securing his first career title. The Canadian birdied the par-5 18th hole to beat Ben Kohles and win the CJ Cup Byron Nelson in a dramatic finish yesterday at TPC Craig Ranch in McKinney, Texas. “I felt really calm all week,” said Pendrith, 32. “And all today I felt really calm, too, until the end where things got a little interesting.” Pendrith posted a final-round 67 to go 23- under 261 for the week. Kohles’ 66 powered him to the runner-up finish, and Swedish veteran Alex Noren placed third at 21-under after a final round 65. Pendrith had experienced close calls before, notably tying for second at the 2022 Rocket Mortgage Classic. “I think I learned that I need to stay aggressive, play my own game, not worry about what others are doing and go out there and win it and not let it, I guess, be brought to you,” Pendrith said. Koepka captures fourth LIV title BROOKS KOEPKA became the first golfer to record four victories on the LIV circuit after posting a two-stroke win at LIV Golf Singapore. Koepka carded a 3-under 68 to cap his threeday tournament total of 15-under 198, which was two shots better than Australians Cameron Smith (64) and Marc Leishman (66) at Sentosa Golf Club’s Serapong Course in Singapore. Defending champion Talor Gooch (67) finished three strokes back of Koepka, who will head into the PGA Championship at Valhalla Golf Club beginning May 16 with confidence as he attempts to capture his sixth major. “Yeah, it’s all starting to come around,” Koepka said. “I’ve put in a lot of work. I feel like on the golf course, off the golf course, it’s been a good two weeks, to say the least. “Take a week off and then grinding pretty hard with Claude (Harmon III, his coach) over the last few days, I thought that was very important. “Kind of started to see it turn maybe Wednesday, Thursday of Adelaide, so to see it pay off here is huge.” Smith and Leishman powered their Ripper GC to the team title. Ripper GC finished three strokes better than Cleeks GC and Fireball GC. ‘I’m going all the way’ LANDO NORRIS said he proved the doubters wrong after taking the first victory of his Formula One career at the Miami Grand Prix yesterday. Norris, 24, from Bristol, became the 21st British driver in history to stand on the top step of the podium after he took advantage of a safety car before holding off Max Verstappen. Speaking in the FIA press conference after the race, Norris was asked how he would celebrate: “I’m not going to sleep! “I’m going all the way. I might have more than a scratch on my nose!” Immediately after the chequered flag, Norris yelled: “Whooooooooooo, whoooooooooooo, I love you all. Thank you so much. We did it, Will (Joseph, Norris’ race engineer). We did it. “I guess that is how it is done. Finally. Oh, I am so happy. I knew it when I came in this morning. I said today is the day, full of opportunities. I nailed it, you nailed it, thank you so much. “Thanks mum, thanks dad, this one is for my grandma, thank you very much.” After stepping out of the machine that carried him to victory Norris – who sustained a cut on his nose after partying in Amsterdam last weekend – put down his yellow crash helmet before running and leaping into the arms of his mechanics. They hoisted him into the air as a host of drivers – including fellow Briton George Russell and Daniel Ricciardo, the last man to win for McLaren in Monza in 2021 – came over to congratulate Norris. “About time, huh,” said Norris, who was interviewed by 2009 world champion Jenson Button. “What a race. It has been a long-time coming. Finally I have managed to do it. I am so happy I have delivered for the team. I am finally on top. I am over the moon. “I am proud. The whole weekend has been good. I have had some little setbacks along the way. I knew we had the pace, and today we put it together.” Just last month, Norris became the first driver in F1’s 74-year history to have finished on the podium as many as 14 times without winning. And in China a fortnight ago he drove brilliantly, only to finish runner-up to Verstappen. However, the race here in Miami belonged to the driver who made his debut as a teenager in Australia in 2019. He continued: “What do I say to McLaren? I am just proud. I guess people doubted me along the way, and I have made mistakes over the last five years, in my short career, but I stuck with McLaren because I believed in them and today proved exactly that.” Norris was a popular winner, with Lewis Hamilton, who finished sixth, slowing down on his in-lap before taking both hands off the steering wheel to congratulate his countryman. “Lando was flying,” said Verstappen after he finished 7.6 seconds behind Norris. “I am very happy for him. It is not going to be his last one. He definitely deserves it today.” – The Independent RESULTS & STANDINGS █ BY KIERAN JACKSON Lando Norris
SPORTS SPORTS TUESDAY | MAY 7, 2024 29 Maguire blow for Devils ‘Huge’ injury issues a first for United boss Ten Hag ERIK TEN HAG says he has never dealt with an injury list like the one engulfing Manchester United throughout his decade in management, with Harry Maguire the latest to be laid low. A positive first season in charge has been followed by a second to forget, with the side out of Europe before Christmas and already unable to qualify for the Champions League next term. FA Cup glory against neighbours Manchester City could yet see a difficult campaign end on a high, but availability over the final few weeks could hamper those chances. United have been beset by injuries this term, with Maguire becoming the 62nd case of injury or illness this season after sustaining a muscle complaint in training on Sunday. “For over 10 years I am managing, I never had this experience,” Ten Hag said speaking before the England defender’s setback. “So huge, so many injury issues, so I trust all my experience, it can happen once in 10 years. “Hopefully now I have to wait another 10 to have so many injuries to deal with.” Maguire’s injury will rule him out for the rest of the Premier League season. The 31- year-old has a chance of making the FA Cup final and should be fine for England at Euro 2024, but this latest issue is a blow for a side that continues to deal with defensive issues. Maguire joins fellow centrebacks Raphael Varane, Lisandro Martinez, Victor Lindelof and Willy Kambwala on the sidelines. Such problems have destabilised United this season and highlighted to Ten Hag that United need to build a bigger squad replete with players capable of dealing with the stresses of playing for the club. The Dutchman said: “That is one of the issues in constructing the squad where we have to improve, to do things better, to construct a squad where we have more depth.” Pushed on the mental attributes he wants in new recruits, Ten Hag added: “I think every manager wants players with winning attitudes, great mentality, big personalities to perform under stress. “That is what every manager is looking for but, what the truth is, in this club it is extremely important to perform under stress.” Bruno Fernandes epitomises the kind of mentality, skill and robustness needed to succeed at Old Trafford and Ten Hag insisted the midfielder will “definitely” be at Manchester United for at least another two years and is confident his captain is happy to stay. Fernandes had said in an interview in his native Portugal that he would consider his future after Euro 2024 while United’s financial issues mean they would listen to offers for most of their squad. But Ten Hag is keen to keep the 29-yearold, who is United’s 15-goal top scorer this season, as he said the midfielder’s comments were misinterpreted. “I know he is very happy to be here,” he stated, adding that “absolutely” he wanted Fernandes to stay. He has a contract until 2026, with the club possessing an option to extend it for a further season. – The Independent BUNDESLIGA champions Bayer Leverkusen extended their season-long unbeaten run to 48 games with a 5-1 win at Eintracht Frankfurt yesterday. With Xabi Alonso forced to watch from the stands due to a yellow card suspension, Leverkusen turned on the style, winning with goals from Granit Xhaka, Patrik Schick, Jeremie Frimpong and penalties from Exequiel Palacios and Victor Boniface. “We had control of the game,” Xhaka told DAZN. “We wanted to stay undefeated, we did that again – and we are really close to achieving something very special.” Leverkusen, who are unbeaten in 48 across all competitions, need to avoid defeat in two remaining league matches to become the first team to go unbeaten through a Bundesliga season. “That’s our challenge,” Alonso said after the match. “A big challenge. Just two games to go and if we make that, it will be almost perfect. We’ll try it.” Alonso’s side have a 2-0 advantage ahead of Friday’s (3am Malaysian time) Europa League semifinal second leg at home and are through to the final of the German Cup, keeping their dreams of an incredible unbeaten treble alive. In earlier matches, Bochum won 4-3 at Union Berlin, pushing the hosts closer to the drop just months after they were playing in the Champions League. Mainz’s 1-1 draw at Heidenheim later netted them a point and means Union are now just one point clear of the relegation playoff spot with two games remaining. Leeds loanee Brenden Aaronson, one of three Union players to be subbed on at half-time, criticised his team’s first-half performance. “It was one of those days when we didn’t show up and that’s all there is to it. “We need to band together and fight like we did in the second-half. That’s what we need to take away from this game.” – AFP AC MILAN were given the silent treatment by thousands of frustrated supporters during yesterday’s thrilling 3-3 home draw with Genoa as their disappointing Serie A season crawls to its conclusion. Fans unfurled banners demanding improvements to the team, while the hardcore ultras stayed silent in protest throughout a match which ended all square after Malick Thiaw’s 87th-minute own goal handed midtable Genoa a point. The entire Curva Sud section of the San Siro, which is where the ultras stand and holds thousands of supporters, missed Thiaw’s unfortunate error as it emptied shortly after Olivier Giroud fired Milan 3-2 ahead in the 75th minute. Left behind was a banner which simply read “the sound of silence”. The protest dampened the atmosphere for what was effectively a dead rubber, with second-placed Milan already guaranteed Champions League football and promoted Genoa safe from relegation. Fan discontent stems from the 18 points which separate Milan from champions and local rivals Inter Milan, who secured their 20th league title by winning their local derby a fortnight ago. That, and being dumped out of the Europa League by fellow Italians Roma, angered supporters and means Stefano Pioli, the man who guided Milan to the 2022 Serie A title, will be dismissed at the end of the season after nearly five years at the helm. “The fans chose that form of protest, you have to respect it,” said Pioli to DAZN. “Our fans have always been of huge value over these years, they’ll have their reasons for the way they protested.” Below Milan, the battle for Champions League football continued as third-placed Juventus drew 1-1 in a hugely entertaining clash with Roma in which each team created a host of chances and struck the woodwork. Juve stay five points behind Milan and inched towards a spot in Europe’s top club competition after Gleison Bremer’s 31st-minute header levelled an early opener from Romelu Lukaku. Despite only winning twice in 14 league matches, Massimiliano Allegri’s side are nine points ahead of sixth-placed Atalanta, who are at relegated Salernitana overnight and also have another game in hand. “Football is a crazy sport because one moment things go your way and the other everything goes against you,” said Allegri. “We could have done better this season but it wasn’t to be.” Atalanta’s extra match leaves Roma at risk of missing out as a win at Salernitana would move Gian Piero Gasperini’s side above Roma into fifth on goal difference. – AFP ‘Sound of silence’ Sound of silence’ for troubled Milan or troubled Milan SHORTS Celta earn important win CELTA VIGO earned a dramatic 3-2 win over Villarreal to take a big step towards La Liga survival yesterday, while Granada lost 3-0 at Sevilla to virtually confirm their relegation. Anastasios Douvikas netted late on to snatch Celta victory at Balaidos against 10-man Villarreal, who had Santi Comesana sent off after just 17 minutes for an ugly tackle. The Galicians are now eight points clear of the drop zone with four matches remaining, while Granada are 11 from safety after they were hammered by Sevilla. The Andalucians seem doomed to join relegated Almeria in the second division next year, while Cadiz, 18th, still have a chance of saving themselves. The Yellow Submarine lost against champions Real Madrid on Saturday but Rayo Vallecano’s 1-0 defeat at Almeria yesterday gives Cadiz some hope – they trail Mallorca by six points, and Rayo and Celta by eight. Alaves dealt Valencia’s hopes of reaching Europe next season a blow with a 1-0 victory at Mestalla leaving Ruben Baraja’s side eighth. Real Betis, seventh, won 2-0 at Osasuna to move five points clear of Valencia in the race for European football. Argentina 1978 World Cup-winning coach Menotti dies ARGENTINA’S World Cup-winning coach Cesar Luis Menotti has died at the age of 85. Menotti guided Argentina to glory on home soil in 1978 after excluding Diego Maradona from his squad, feeling the 17-year-old was too young to face the pressure of the tournament. Running the risk of being cast a villain throughout Argentina, the chain-smoking Menotti – who was know as Flaco (Slim) – would eventually became a national hero as the South Americans won the World Cup for the first time. Menotti spent his playing career as a midfielder in Argentina and Brazil, as well as spending time in the North American Soccer League with the New York Generals. He was technical director at Buenos Aires-based Huracan before being appointed Argentina manager in 1974. Menotti, with players such as Daniel Passarella, Mario Kempes and Osvaldo Ardiles at his disposal, guided Argentina to World Cup glory four years later with a 3-1 final victory over the Netherlands. Rublev to return to hospital after taking Madrid title ANDREY RUBLEV battled through a suspected virus and an anaesthetised foot to beat Felix AugerAliassime 4-6, 7-5, 7-5 to claim the Madrid Open title yesterday, but revealed that he will now have to return to hospital to make a full recovery. The 26-year-old Russian, who has struggled with health issues throughout the tournament, recovered from the illness and an opening set wobble to clinch his second Masters 1000 title in just under three hours. “I’m still sick and tomorrow I think I’ll go back to the hospital for a full check-up to know exactly what’s going on,” Rublev told a news conference. “I’ve been sick for eight or nine days now, it’s not normal, I’m not really getting better, which is strange because usually I get sick for two or three days at the most and maybe a fever, but nothing special. This is the first time in my life that I feel this bad.” Rublev eliminated second seed and home favourite Carlos Alcaraz and also beat American Taylor Fritz to reach the final. Leverkusen extend unbeaten run to 48 games AC Milan’s Matteo Gabbia (centre) scores their second goal against Genoa. –REUTERSPIX
SPORTS SPORTS TUESDAY | MAY 7, 2024 30 Keane calls Haaland a ‘spoilt brat’ ROY KEANE continued his war of words with Erling Haaland by calling the Manchester City striker a “spoilt brat”. Haaland scored four goals in City’s thumping win over Wolves on Sunday but was unhappy when he was brought off by manager Pep Guardiola in the 81st minute. The striker continued to remonstrate with teammates after returning to the bench, even though City had by then wrapped up three points and he had extended his lead in the Golden Boot standings. Former Manchester United midfielder Keane compared Haaland to a “League Two” player when criticising his overall play last month – to which the Norwegian responded: “I don’t really care that much about that man.” Keane referenced Haaland’s reaction to being brought off against Wolves when asked about Mohamed Salah’s return to the Liverpool starting line-up ahead of their fixture against Tottenham yesterday. Keane claimed Salah’s touchline argument with manager Jurgen Klopp at West Ham last week made headlines because Liverpool had dropped points, while Haaland’s reaction had been swept under the carpet because City maintained their title challenge. “We saw Haaland yesterday being brought off, not too happy, behaving like a spoilt brat,” he said on Sky Sports. “But because they won the game and he scores goals, it’s almost forgotten about. I think because results haven’t gone Liverpool’s way, that’s been highlighted.” Emery not thinking about Spurs ASTON VILLA manager Unai Emery has no interest in monitoring Tottenham’s results after his side’s quest for Champions League qualification was dealt a blow by a 1-0 defeat at Brighton. Villa travelled to the Amex Stadium knowing victory combined with a Spurs loss to Liverpool would guarantee a fourth-placed finish. But the visitors laboured for large parts of a tight south-coast encounter and were beaten after Seagulls forward Joao Pedro headed home on the rebound when his 87th-minute penalty was saved by Robin Olsen. Emery, who felt the spot-kick award was “soft”, refused to blame tiredness for the setback as Villa juggle Premier League commitments with a run to the semifinals of the Europa Conference League as his players attempt to overturn a 4-2 aggregate deficit against Olympiacos on Thursday (Friday 3am Malaysian time) in Athens. “We competed but we didn’t get a good result and we didn’t deserve more but overall (we are) positive, happy and proud of our work,” said Emery. “What is the most important thing now? To think of Thursday? No, it’s rest. Rest now, rest tomorrow. “I don’t want to watch anything about Tottenham because it’s in our hands. “I want to recover, regain our freshness, our energy, some players and try to manage the matches we will play. “It’s more difficult now on Thursday against Olympiacos but we will be there trying to do something a little bit different than we did on Thursday.” PEP GUARDIOLA is convinced Manchester City will need to win all three of their remaining fixtures to see off Arsenal in the title race. The champions will claim a fourth successive Premier League crown if they beat Fulham, Tottenham and West Ham in their final games. Yet any slip-up could open the door for the Gunners, who currently lead the table by a point but have played one match more. City manager Guardiola said: “If we win the games we will be champions, so the players know it, feel it, and have the experience of doing it in the past. But they have to do it again. “It’s going to be easy? No. It’s in our hands but everyone knows you cannot make one little mistake because you will lose the Premier League. They know it, we know it. “You see their level of consistency since the winter break, the way they are playing. It’s not the fact that they are winning, it’s the way they play. “You smell that they are not going to lose in the games they have left. They are not going to.” City emphatically underlined their status as favourites by hammering Wolves 5-1 at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday. Erling Haaland scored four goals as Guardiola’s side issued a strong response to Arsenal’s victory over Bournemouth earlier in the day. The running order is reversed this weekend as City travel to Fulham on Saturday before Arsenal play at Manchester United the following day. That could give City the chance to land a psychological blow by going top, but Guardiola does not particularly see that as an advantage. He said: “If we play Fulham after or before we have to win, and Arsenal know they have to win. “When we arrived (on Saturday) the players knew guys if we didn’t win – ciao ciao, bye bye. See each other next season. It’s not complicated. It doesn’t matter if it’s before or after.” Haaland meanwhile warned City are fully focused on their title “mission” after his brilliant four-goal blast against Wolves. “It was a great game. It was important win, obviously, and fantastic to score four goals. “It was a difficult game. They can play football so it was not easy but we were solid and we’re on a mission. “Now focus on the next one. I’m confident but we have to keep going, we have to push and focus.” – The Independent @thesundaily FOLLOW ON Malaysian Paper INSTAGRAM City have no room for error: Pep Guardiola does not expect Arsenal to slip up in title race Moyes says sorry after dismal Hammers display MANAGER David Moyes said he feels “really sorry” for West Ham fans after watching his side fall to a 5-0 loss at the hands of Chelsea. West Ham have conceded five goals in each of their last two away games, losing 5-2 against Crystal Palace on April 21, and are now almost certain to miss out on a fourth successive season in European competition. They have won just one of their last eight fixtures in the Premier League, losing four times during that sequence, although they did draw with Liverpool last time out. “The fans have been great but I feel bad for them,” Moyes told Sky Sports. “I don’t normally have teams who get beaten like this but we are lacking some ingredients – mental toughness and leadership to get better results, or at least not get hammered. “The fans played their part and I can only say I’m really sorry for how it played out.” It is the latest bump in the road during a rocky season for Moyes, who appears to be on his way out after West Ham held talks with former Wolves manager Julen Lopetegui earlier this week. Moyes, 61, returned for his second stint in charge of West Ham in December 2019 and has overseen a largely positive period in the club’s history. The Scot led the Hammers to the Europa League semifinal in 2021-22 and they went on to win the Europa Conference League in 2022-23, ending a 43-year wait for a major trophy. But his days appear to be numbered with the current campaign fizzling out and widespread frustration among the fanbase. The sheer amount of goals conceded, 70, has left them fighting a losing battle, with only Burnley (74), Luton (78) and Sheffield United, who all sit in the bottom three, holding a worse defensive record. “We’ve had too many games this season where we haven’t shown any toughness, togetherness, leadership, or taken ownership of the performance,” Moyes said. “I’m the manager so I take ownership of that but sometimes the players have to take responsibility as well.” – Agencies CHELSEA kept up their electric goalscoring form at home and boosted their hopes of European football with a 5-0 thrashing of West Ham. Mauricio Pochettino’s side have now scored 22 times in their last six Premier League games at Stamford Bridge, and here there was a fluency to their attacking play that could well have yielded substantially more than the five they put past the hapless visitors. Chelsea were three up at the break. First, Cole Palmer netted the 21st League goal of his debut season in west London, steering a loose ball into the corner, then Conor Gallagher volleyed home. Noni Madueke headed the third near the end of an excellent first half, before Nicolas Jackson took his tally for the season to 13 in the League with a brace after the interval. Chelsea climbed to seventh after recording back-toback League wins for the first time since January, and there is increasingly the feeling that, after a difficult start, the players are responding to their head coach’s methods. “I am so pleased, so happy. It continues the same feelings from Thursday and keeps up the momentum. “The performance was fantastic in every aspect and the players deserve big credit to play again after a few days at this level. Massive credit to them.” The fourth goal saw Madueke go through one-on-one with the goalkeeper and despite having a chance to score himself, the winger selflessly laid the ball off to Jackson, who was in a better position, to score. And Pochettino believes Madueke’s behaviour is indicative of the growth in his team. “Noni’s assist to Jackson shows that we have learned and we are smart. The penalty situation against Everton, we received lots of criticism, but a young team always needs to make mistakes and feel the situations to improve. “If we are able to improve, it is because we are smart and intelligent people. Today was great. It was a great action from Noni to show how the group are starting to believe and feel between them. “It is always a process that takes time. You never know if it is going to take one month, six months or a year. “The most important thing is they are starting to set the principles to feel and live like a group of players to create those links to compete.” – The Independent/Agencies Five-star Chelsea boost Euro hopes █ BY ANDY HAMPSON SHORTS Chelsea’s Cole Palmer (left) and Nicolas Jackson. – AFPPIX
SPORTS SPORTS TUESDAY | MAY 7, 2024 31 FIVE YEARS AGO, Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) unveiled “Project 24” which aimed among others to secure a gold medal at the 2024 Olympic Games and a Thomas Cup 2024 final slot. Fast forward today, what unfolded at Chengdu High-Tech Zone Sports Centre over the week have seen disappointment in one of the objectives of “Project 24”. On Saturday, Malaysia’s bid to end the 32- year drought of lifting the Thomas Cup ended in tatters after going down 1-3 to hosts China in the semifinals. The setback has raised questions whether “Project 24” is capable of creating a formidable team that has the ability to be a world beater, as that was also one of its primary objectives. While some may view that making the first semifinals in Thomas Cup after eight years as a positive outcome, it is undeniable that Malaysia perhaps would be able to clinch the Thomas Cup with a squad boasting more top-notch shuttlers. One of the glaring weaknesses in the current squad is the lack of depth among men’s singles players as it takes more than one player to win the Thomas Cup. Academy Badminton Malaysia (ABM) coaching director Rexy Mainaky even stated that it needs more than professional men’s singles shuttler, Lee Zii Jia, to beat China in the last four. Zii Jia lost tamely to current world No. 2 Shi Yu Qi, 19-21, 5-21. There is still gaps between Zii Jia, Leong Jun Hao, Cheam June Wei, Justin Hoh and China’s men singles players. Even more worrying is that, Zii Jia is the only local shuttler with top 10 world ranking while BAM’s current top player, Ng Tze Yong, who was absence due to back injury ranked 18th followed by Jun Hao (37th), June Wei (63rd) and Hoh (233rd). As for Zii Jia, the question remaines on whether he has justified the “investment” made by BAM – given that the national body needs to pay him every time he plays here due to image rights. The world No. 10 had won three and lost two throughout the world’s most prestigious badminton team tournament. However, all three victories that the Kedahan recorded were against lower-ranked players while he struggled to overcome higher-ranked players including a straight set loss to world No. 1 Viktor Axelsen from Denmark in the final Group D match. His form in Chengdu will surely raise some doubts about his ability to secure a gold medal at the 2024 Olympic Games. On a brighter note, there is still room for improvement for Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik and Goh Sze Fei-Nur Izzuddin Rumsani. Meanwhile, it came as no surprise that the national women’s team crashed out early again from the Uber Cup, but the manner in which some of national players performed was disappointing. Meanwhile, China asserted their dominance in both the Thomas and Uber Cup Finals. China bagged their 11th Thomas Cup title by defeating Indonesia 3-1 and claimed their 16th Uber Cup title with 3-0 victory over Indonesia on Sunday. If this year’s results are any indication, it’s worth noting that China should conquer the Olympics and Malaysia needs to elevate their game to provide a strong challenge. – Bernama BAM’sredemption edemption Gold in Paris crucial after Thomas Cup setback Sabah FC emerge as SMJ Cup champions SABAH FC was crowned 2024 SMJ Cup champion after beating Kuala Lumpur (KL) City FC 1-0 in the final match at the Likas Stadium. The game’s only goal came in the 63rd minute through a spot kick taken by Ramon Machado after the Brazilian striker was brought down in the penalty box. Sabah head coach Datuk Ong Kim Swee said winning the SMJ Cup was a morale boost for the players, however, there was still a lot that needed to be improved ahead of the first Super League match on May 12 against Penang FC. “It was a fierce match, high intensity, and this is important for us to take to the (Super League) match next week. We learned a lot about our weaknesses, strengths, and injuries,” he told reporters after the match. He said it was still too early to determine the main line-up and strategy for the first match of the Super League, but the input from the 2024 SMJ Cup would be useful. KL City head coach Miroslav Kuljanac said he was happy with the players’ performance in the SMJ Cup and gained valuable information for the team to face the first Super League game on May 12 against Kuching City FC. “The players played well, tactically okay. First eleven for the first Super League Game, we still haven’t decided. We have ideas for tactics, strategy and formation, but we will evaluate things first,” he said. – Bernama THE national men’s hockey team have been advised to be more clinical in their finishing when they play topranked New Zealand in the 30th Sultan Azlan Shah Cup (SASC) today. The Speedy Tigers, the defending champions and ranked world No. 13, rebounded from a 4-5 loss to Pakistan in the opening match on Saturday to tame Canada 6-2 on Sunday night. Malaysia edged New Zealand 3-2 in a friendly on May 1. H e a d coach Sarjit Singh is not impressed by the scoreline, saying his charges missed many opportunities and made mistakes which caused them to concede two goals. Sarjit hopes they will learn from their mistakes and up the ante against the world No. 10 and Olympicsbound Black Sticks, who will be seeking redemption for their 1-4 defeat to Japan on Sunday. “New Zealand is a very good and complete side. When they put pressure on you, it will be very difficult. But it is good for our players to play this kind of matches because it is a learning process. Hopefully, we will get better and better (for the 2026 Asian Games),” he told reporters in Ipoh, Perak. Sarjit said he did not have much time to prepare the new-look team since taking charge of the Speedy Tigers in March as they have to play in back-to-back tournaments. After the SASC, the Speedy Tigers will be heading to the Nations Cup in Poland from May 31 to June 9 and the Asian Champions Trophy in China from Sept 8-17. Meanwhile, New Zealand head coach Greg Nicol hopes his charges will quickly adapt to the tropical heat and be creative in their play after scoring only once from 37 circle (penalty box) entries against Japan. “We got to go back to the drawing board and try to beat Malaysia in front of the home crowd. All we want is a competitive tournament. “Against Japan, we managed to find the space but couldn’t do things right in the final third. That’s something we need to improve on,” he said, adding that the Kiwis are using the invitational tournament to prepare for the summer heat of the Olympics, scheduled for July 23 to Aug 11. Pakistan are leading the table standings on goal advantage despite sharing six points with Japan after two matches, followed by Malaysia and New Zealand with three points each. South Korea and Canada remain at the bottom without any points. – Bernama Speedy Tigers need to be clinical against Kiwis: Sarjit ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE: Brighton 1 (Pedro 87-pen) Aston Villa 0, Chelsea 5 (Palmer 15, Gallagher 30, Madueke 36, Jackson 48, 80) West Ham 0, Liverpool 4 (Salah 16, Robertson 45, Gakpo 50, Elliott 59) Tottenham 2 (Richarlison 72, Son 77). P W D L F A Pts Arsenal 36 26 5 5 88 28 83 Man City 35 25 7 3 87 33 82 Liverpool 36 23 9 4 81 38 78 Aston Villa 36 20 7 9 73 53 67 Tottenham 35 18 6 11 69 58 60 Newcastle 35 17 5 13 78 56 56 Chelsea 35 15 9 11 70 59 54 Man Utd 34 16 6 12 52 51 54 West Ham 36 13 10 13 56 70 49 Bournemouth 36 13 9 14 52 63 48 Brighton 35 12 11 12 53 57 47 Wolves 36 13 7 16 49 60 46 Fulham 36 12 8 16 51 55 44 Crystal Palace 35 10 10 15 45 57 40 Everton 36 12 9 15 38 49 37 Brentford 36 9 9 18 52 60 36 Nottm Forest 36 8 9 19 45 63 29 Luton 36 6 8 22 49 78 26 Burnley 36 5 9 22 39 74 24 Sheff Utd 36 3 7 26 35 100 16 LA LIGA: Osasuna 0 Real Betis 2 (Perez 41, Fornals 45+3), Celta Vigo 3 (Aspas 22-pen, Larsen 39, Douvikas 82) Villarreal 2 (Moreno 12, Guedes 65), Valencia 0 Alaves 1 (Lopez 68), Rayo Vallecano 0 Almeria 1 (Lozano 30), Sevilla 3 (Acuna 11, En-Nesyri 51, Lukebakio 80) Granada 0. TOP 6 P W D L F A Pts Real Madrid 34 27 6 1 74 22 87 Girona 34 23 5 6 73 42 74 Barcelona 34 22 7 5 70 43 73 Atletico 34 21 4 9 63 39 67 Bilbao 34 17 10 7 55 33 61 Sociedad 34 14 12 8 48 35 54 SERIE A: Cagliari 1 (Mina 26) Lecce 1 (Krstovic 84), Empoli 0 Frosinone 0, AC Milan 3 (Florenzi 45, Gabbia 72, Giroud 76) Genoa 3 (Retegui 5-pen, Ekuban 48, Thiaw 87-og), Roma 1 (Lukaku 15) Juventus 1 (Bremer 31), Verona 2 (Lazovic 13-pen, Noslin 59) Fiorentina 1 (Castrovilli 42). TOP 6 P W D L F A Pts Inter Milan 35 28 5 2 81 19 89 AC Milan 35 21 8 6 67 42 71 Juventus 35 18 12 5 48 27 66 Bologna 35 17 13 5 49 27 64 Roma 35 17 9 9 62 42 60 Atalanta 33 17 6 10 61 37 57 Lazio 35 17 5 13 45 37 56 BUNDESLIGA: Heidenheim 1 Mainz 1, Eintracht Frankfurt 1 Bayer Leverkusen 5, Union Berlin 3 Bochum 4. TOP 6 P W D L F A Pts Leverkusen 32 26 6 0 82 23 84 B. Munich 32 22 3 7 90 41 69 Stuttgart 32 21 4 7 73 39 67 RB Leipzig 32 19 6 7 74 36 63 Dortmund 32 17 9 6 64 40 60 E.Frankfurt 32 11 12 9 48 47 45 CHAMPIONS RELEGATED RESULTS & STANDINGS Nur Aisyah to be based in Belgium NATIONAL women’s road race cyclist Nur Aisyah Mohamad Zubir will be taking part in about 20 competitions in Belgium and the Netherlands as her final preparations for the 2024 Paris Olympics. Malaysian National Cycling Federation (MNCF) deputy president Datuk Amarjit Singh Gill said because of this, the 27-year-old rider will skip the Road Race Cycling Championships in Almaty, Kazakhstan from June 5 to 12. “I have already discussed this with (women’s road race cycling coach) Amir (Mustafa Rusli). She will be in Belgium beginning May 25 and stay there until she participates in the Olympics. “She will take part in about 20 championships in Belgium and the Netherlands. So I think she has a full schedule,” he told reporters recently. Asked if other cyclists would be accompanying Nur Aisyah on the trip, Amarjit said MNCF is trying to make arrangements to bring some reserve riders as a contingency plan. Nur Aisyah will be Malaysia’s first representative in Olympics women’s road racing while for track events the country will have three representatives in Paris – Datuk Mohd Azizulhasni Awang, Muhammad Shah Firdaus Sahrom and Nurul Izzah Izzati Mohd Asri. Meanwhile, Amarjit said the chances of Malaysia’s women’s sprint trio participating in the Paris Olympics are slim although the team is on the first reserve list. – Bernama National men’s singles Lee Zii Jia in action against China’s Shi Yu Qi (not pictured) on Saturday. – BERNAMAPIX
theSun is published and printed by Sun Media Corporation Sdn Bhd (221220-K) of Lot 6, Jalan 51/217, 46050 Petaling Jaya, Selangor. Tel: 03-7784 6688 • Tel (Editorial): 03-7784 6688 Fax: 03-7785 2625 Email: [email protected] • Tel (Advertising): 03-7784 8888 Email: [email protected] SCAN ME TUESDAY | MAY 7, 2024 or download app from the App Store or Google PlayTM . www.thesun.my Free access to iPaper PDF Download SCAN ME Malaysian Paper Read iPaper at Malaysian Paper Malaysian Paper ‘I’m going all the way’ -Story on page 29 -Story on page 28 Maguire blow for Devils ‘We delivered’ Klopp delighted after Reds defeat Spurs in his penultimate home game J URGEN KLOPP felt his Liverpool team delivered in terms of performance and result as they put their title heartbreak aside to beat Tottenham 4-2. The Reds’ hopes of winning the Premier League were effectively ended by a series of frustrating results over the past few weeks. But with the pressure off, the Merseysiders were closer to their fluent best as they dealt a blow to Spurs’ top-four prospects at Anfield yesterday. Klopp, who now has just one more home game remaining before standing down as manager at the end of the season, said: “I really liked the way the boys played. “I liked the individual performances, how we played together. So many good things. “It was a really good football game, and I think that’s what everybody should expect from us – results as well. We delivered both.” Liverpool stormed ahead as Mohamed Salah put his recent spat with Klopp behind him to head the opener before Andy Robertson tapped in a second. Cody Gakpo added to the lead with a fine header and Harvey Elliott curled in a sublime fourth from outside the area. Yet after Spurs rallied with goals from Richarlison and Son Heung-min, Klopp admitted the closing stages were uncomfortable. He said: “Did I expect us to be 4-0 up? No. Did I expect us to be at 4-2 and Ali (Alisson Becker) having to make two more world class saves? No. “But when you think about it, it’s not unlikely because before the game, for Tottenham, if they win they are fully back in the fight for the Champions League. “For us it means we are third. We cannot change that any more, probably, in either direction. “What you saw as well was Tottenham is Tottenham, they are really good and when you let them do that then they’re especially good.” The Liverpool boss, who is set to be replaced by Feyenoord’s Arne Slot – reiterated that he is satisfied with his decision to walk away from Anfield in less than two weeks’ time and revealed the aspects of life in the dugout that have taken their toll on him in a glittering career across England and Germany. “Actually being the manager of Liverpool; the pure football side, coaching the team, doing the stuff we do, growing together as a unit, I love that part. I’m not the right man to do that anymore. But what is really hard is you, the outside world,” Klopp said as per liverpoolecho.com. “Until today, I don’t understand why people want an autograph from me but it happens quite frequently. That’s all things I need to stop at one point. “Just going home and sitting down for a moment and seeing how that feels. People ask me ‘Will I miss it?’ Probably, but I don’t know. I never had it. So that’s all fine.” Asked what his successor will need for a successful Anfield career, Klopp replied: “I think understand a little bit of football, that’s my skill. “I love people, especially football players. So from that point of view, it wasn’t difficult. I enjoyed it a lot.” Spurs’ defeat was their fourth in succession and meant they squandered a chance to cut the gap to fourth-placed Aston Villa, who lost earlier in the day. Head coach Ange Postecouglou, however, felt his team at least showed signs of improvement. The Australian said: “Obviously it was a hugely disappointing outcome for us but at least we were more like ourselves today in terms of our football. “Even in the first half, some of our football, our pressing, was back to where it should be. “But we lacked a real cutting edge, for sure. We just had nothing in that front third, and that allowed Liverpool to get comfortable. “And when they got forward their front guys were quite lethal in pouncing on our mistakes. “So yes, 4-0, we’ve got a mountain to climb but, when we play like ourselves, we always finish strong.” – The Independent Cody Gakpo (back, centre) celebrates scoring Liverpool’s third goal past Tottenham’s goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario during yesterday’s English Premier League match. – REUTERSPIX -Story on page 31 BAM’s redemption