The Sun Daily - 03 August 2023

KUALA LUMPUR: Despite numerous reminders and warnings issued by the authorities, sensitive issues related to religion, race and the royal institution (3R) are still being manipulated by certain parties for personal gain. “There are thousands, if not millions of other topics that can be discussed, just avoid these three things. Is it too much to ask? What is there for the country to look forward to if the ‘elderly’ themselves are stubborn and do not respect the sovereignty of the royal institution, the sanctity of religion and interracial harmony within the nation? Is this what we are trying to teach the younger generation?” said political analyst Prof Dr Sivamurugan Pandian. He said it is unwarranted and unwise for anyone, especially leaders, to play with the people’s emotions, considering that these three things have been the pillars of strength for the nation for so long. “It should be monitored, and if such offences are repeated, they (the offenders) should be swiftly prosecuted. Apologies are no longer a means of escape, and those responsible for raising such matters should be punished accordingly.” Recently, a video lasting two minutes and 50 seconds showing an excerpt from Sultan of Perak Sultan Nazrin Shah’s speech during the Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka Ummah Unity Talk at Balai Budaya Tun Syed Nasir in Kuala Lumpur on Feb 19, 2013 was widely shared on social media. Not only was it taken out of context, but it is also alleged that the intention was to associate and exploit His Majesty’s position for political gain and the pursuit of political interests. Earlier, caretaker Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Noor was charged in the Selayang Sessions Court for oRace and religion-baiting should be swiftly prosecuted as apologies are no longer acceptable: Analyst No to 3R issues ROYAL ATTENTION ... The Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah and the Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah get up close with Anisa Sumayyah Mohd Hafizuddin (seated left), who was giving a demonstration of expressive art therapy at the official opening of WQ Park Health and Rehabilitation Centre in Kuantan yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC Special aid for civil servants to be paid on Aug 10 KUALA LUMPUR: The Special Appreciation Aid for civil servants and government retirees for 2023 will be paid on Aug 10. The Public Service Department (PSD), which shared a circular from Public Service director-general Datuk Dr Zulkapli Mohamed through a post on Facebook, said a payment of RM300 will be given to civil servants in the management and professional groups as well as the executive group Grade 56 and below, including officers and contract appointees. “The special aid is also extended to government retirees including pensioners, derivative pension recipients, Employees Provident Fund Scheme retirees, optional retirees who have not yet received a pension, and pensionable and non-pensionable veterans, who will receive RM200. “The special payment for civil servants will be given to those who are still serving on Aug 10 who are permanent, temporary and Contract of Service appointed officers, in addition to officers who are on full-paid leave, half-paid leave and unpaid leave,” he said. The payment, which will also be given to seconded officers, including those at agencies whose compensation management is separate, will be paid by the agency that accepted the secondment of the officers. According to the circular, the special aid will also be given to MySTEP-appointed officers who are still serving on Aug 10 and were appointed before Aug 10, provided that the contract period has been in effect for at least 30 consecutive days. In addition, interim teachers, drivers self-appointed by Grade B officers and above, and Special Grade A and above who are eligible for drivers but are not provided drivers by their department and drivers selfappointed by administrative members and judges and judicial commissioners, are also eligible to receive the payment. The circular also said special aid payments for government retirees, including those who retired after reaching retirement age or retired for health reasons, will be remitted by PSD while pensioned and non-pensioned veterans will be paid by the Department of Veterans Affairs. committing an act with a tendency to incite, by uttering words that tend to raise feelings of disloyalty towards a ruler. Yesterday, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim voiced disapproval of certain individuals who manipulated Sultan Nazrin Shah’s speech for political motives. He firmly stated that he will not show sympathy towards any party that exhibits disrespect for the royal institution. Sivamurugan said political party leaders, especially those speaking on public platforms, should demonstrate political maturity by presenting rational and practical issues that align with the future direction of the country. He said they should refrain from merely playing with the emotions of the people for the sake of gaining votes. Turn to — page 2 Turn to — page 4 TELLING IT AS IT IS ON THURSDAY AUGUST 3, 2023 No. 8322 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195) www.thesundaily.my INSIDE page 3 page Don’t use polls to 2 slander: PM Penang PH-BN launches manifesto

2 theSUN ON THURSDAY | AUGUST 3, 2023 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS ‘Do not use polls to slander’ SEPANG: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the election campaign for the state polls is the best platform for political leaders to reveal the road map of their respective parties, and not a stage to slander their opponents. He said the people are mature and wise enough to evaluate every word spoken by political leaders and to assess whether what is said would benefit the people and the country. Anwar, who is also Pakatan Harapan (PH) chairman, said he is not concerned about being insulted, but will not condone actions to fool the people by political leaders, especially those from Perikatan Nasional (PN), who have started spreading lies to divert attention from their failures when they were administering the country. “During campaigns, (Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin) daily refers to oI am not perturbed by insults, but will not tolerate actions by political leaders to fool the people: Anwar Anwar as stupid and ‘doesn’t know about the economy’. That is what he says, but I am not concerned. Everyone knows that what I pledge or do is for the development of the country’s economy and well-being. “I wish to remind Muhyiddin (that there is) no point in insulting others. This is not the time. What I want is for you (Muhyiddin) and PAS to state what was done during your tenure as the administrator of the government and what your party wants to do for the people after this,” he said in Tanjong Sepat on Tuesday during the “Unity Tour” held in conjunction with the Selangor polls. Also present were PH and Barisan Nasional (BN) candidates Borhan Aman Shah, Noorazli Said and Lwi Kian Keong for the Tanjong Sepat, Dengkil and Sungai Pelek state seats respectively. Anwar reminded voters in Selangor that the state polls are the best platform for the people to choose political party representatives who represent a party that has a policy to assist the people and ensure the prosperity of the state, Bernama reported. He urged voters in the three state seats under the Sepang Parliamentary constituency to show that they would not make a mistake when casting their ballots by picking the party that would ensure their future, and not one that fools the people, plays up racial and religious issues and insults royalty. “I want every voter to support candidates from PH-BN, to prove to PAS and Bersatu that the people are wise and able to assess the candidates and party that has the interest of the people at heart. “Let us work hard. I want big wins in all seats that we are contesting. We will ensure a knockout blow to Bersatu and PAS in the coming state elections.” The Election Commission has fixed polling day for all six states – Selangor, Kedah, Penang, Kelantan, Terengganu and Negeri Sembilan – on Aug 12 and early voting on Aug 8. Brunei Sultan on state visit to Malaysia PUTRAJAYA: The Sultan of Brunei Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah arrived yesterday on a state visit. He will be in Malaysia until tomorrow. The Foreign Ministry said the visit coincides with the 24th Malaysia-Brunei Darussalam Annual Leaders’ Consultation (ALC), which will be attended by Sultan Hassanal and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. “As the highest bilateral mechanism between Malaysia and Brunei Darussalam, the ALC will provide the opportunity for both leaders to review the progress of bilateral cooperation and discuss outstanding issues as well as exchange views on regional and international matters of mutual interest. “Both leaders are also expected to witness the signing of several bilateral instruments.” The Sultan of Brunei will be received in a welcoming ceremony at Istana Negara by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah today. Subsequently, he will have an audience with Al-Sultan Abdullah, followed by a state banquet in honour of Sultan Hassanal and the delegation from Brunei. – Bernama Anwar receiving Sultan Hassanal on his arrival at the Royal Malaysian Air Force base in Subang yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC Govt not biased towards any race: PM SEMENYIH: The unity government has never sidelined any race in the country, but has ensured that all initiatives and policies introduced are inclusive and meant for all races, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. Refuting claims by some parties that the unity government is biased, Anwar said assistance and initiatives by the government would be enjoyed by every level of society, without preference for any race or religion. He said the government does not have much money but remains committed to truly serving the people without any vested interests so that whatever money it has can be used to assist the people. “The money that the government has is not much. But because we do not swindle or use it for personal interests, there is still a blessing from the almighty Allah SWT to use the money to assist the people. “I stress this, whether you like it or not, whether you support us or not, we will never change our position of supporting every single citizen in this country,” he said in Semenyih, Kajang on Tuesday during the “Unity Tour” held in conjunction with the Selangor elections. He said one of the initiatives introduced for all races in the country is the government’s effort to eradicate hardcore poverty. He added that while the unity government is fully committed to assisting the people in eradicating hardcore poverty, there are PAS MPs who chide such efforts. “MPs from PAS claim that since we have the government, we can solve the issue of poverty. They forget that even the administration of Khalifah Umar Abdul Aziz took two years and three months to solve the problems of poverty. “I am very firm on the issue and I have directed that this year, all government machinery, ministers and agencies must work hard to put a complete stop to the issue of hardcore poor in the country.” – Bernama Success of govt making Opposition envious, says Fahmi SEMENYIH: The various successes achieved by the unity government during the seven months of governing the country have caused the Opposition to be jealous or “torn”, said Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil. He said although the government is still new, there is no denying the success of the initiatives implemented to help the people. Fahmi, who is also Pakatan Harapan communications director, said because of the government’s success, the Opposition does not have any fodder to attack it and instead harped on negative sentiments, including raising 3R issues involving race, religion and royalty. “The success we can see now is that our inflation rate continues to decrease and currently stands at 2.4%. “According to the Statistics Department, the communications sector recorded a decrease in inflation for internet prices, which has dropped, meaning internet prices are getting cheaper,” he said at the “Unity Tour” in Semenyih, Kajang on Tuesday. Fahmi said some stubborn opposition leaders continue to raise negative sentiments or 3R issues. “Despite various reminders regarding campaigning ethics to all parties, including social media users, some are still playing up such issues.” – Bernama ‘Leaders must serve as role models’ “If the 3R issue continues to be played and manipulated, wouldn’t it lead to politics of hatred, which should be completely rejected in our efforts to celebrate diversity and preserve what we have built?” Malaysian Unity Foundation trustee Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye urged all leaders to serve as positive role models for the community, with a particular focus on fostering unity in the diverse multicultural society. “It should start with political leaders, as they should be exemplary models for the people. If a leader uses issues like these for their benefit, it is not a good example,” he told Bernama. The community activist emphasised that unity and harmony among different ethnic groups are crucial elements that will shape the future stability and prosperity of the country. “If we want to achieve or strive for unity, we must firmly adhere to the Federal Constitution and the Rukun Negara as both serve as fundamental pillars in nation-building. “So, if we respect and uphold these two, we must avoid 3R issues as they are sensitive matters that can potentially lead to unrest and conflicts among ethnic groups.” Lee also said engaging in debates is acceptable for both the government and the Opposition to share their views, but it is best to steer clear of 3R issues. Earlier, Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain was reported as saying police will not compromise on matters related to the raising of 3R issues, especially in light of the six state elections. He warned that anyone involved will face action under the Election Offences Act 1954. From front page

theSUN ON THURSDAY | AUGUST 3, 2023 3 MALAYSIA IOI PUTRAJAYA L2 – 229 -231, 2ND FLOOR, IOI CITY MALL 2, LEBUH IRC, IOI CITY RESORT, PUTRAJAYA PHONE: 03-8682 5288 On Sale Saturday 5th August - Tuesday 8th August 2023. Sale items only available at Spotlight IOI City Mall Putrajaya, MyTown & IPC Stores. Excludes Clearance, Hot Buys & Great Buys All items, styles, colours & sizes may vary between stores. Not in conjunction with any other offer. While stocks last. Instore stock only. MASSIVE RANGE OF APPAREL & QUILTING FABRICS CRICUT MAKER 3 MACHINE CRAFTERS CHOICE CADDY LOCK STOCK & BARREL STORAGE BOX, 50L SIMPLICITY MA10C SEWING MACHINE BROTHER AS2730S SEWING MACHINE CRAYOLA SUPER ART & CRAFT TUB KIDS LICENSED COSTUMES SEMCO CANVAS VALUE PACK VALUE BALL MILL END YARN PACK SPARTYS PLAIN COLOURED TABLEWARE SAVE UP TO RM81M REG RM700 SAVE RM371EA REG RM2599 SAVE RM701EA REG RM1049 SAVE RM280EA REG RM19 SAVE RM12EA 400G REG RM65 SAVE RM38EA 6 sizes available, pack of 5, pack of 3 or pack of 2. Not in conjunction with any voucher. Not in conjunction with any voucher. Excludes Mega Pack Not in conjunction with any voucher. Includes up to 70 pieces of drawing & art tools. RM9m RM7ea RM27ea RM329ea RM769ea RM1898ea RM55set RM60ea RM4.50pk RM20pk RM15pk VIP CLUB VIP CLUB VIP CLUB VIP CLUB VIP CLUB VIP CLUB VIP CLUB VIP CLUB VIP CLUB VIP CLUB VIP CLUB GIFT CARD RM30 *Gift cards available at Spotlight Creative IOI City Mall Putrajaya store only. Limit of 1 x RM30 Gift Card per customer. FREE GIFT CARD FOR THE FIRST 100 CUSTOMERS L2 – 229 -231, 2ND FLOOR, IOI CITY MALL 2, LEBUH IRC, IOI CITY RESORT, PUTRAJAYA PHONE: 03-8682 5288 SALE ALSO ON AT MYTOWN & IPC AUSTRALIA’S LARGEST ART, CRAFT, PARTY & FABRIC MEGASTORE INCLUDES FABRICS, SEWING, CRAFT, COSTUMES, PARTY ESSENTIALS & HOME VIP CLUB EXCLUSIVE OFFER STOREWIDE EVERY DAY DON’T MISS OUT ON STOREWIDE SAVINGS! SIGN UP INSTORE OR ONLINE INCLUDES FABRICS, SEWING, CRAFT, COSTUMES, PARTY ESSENTIALS & HOME VIP CLUB EXCLUSIVE OFFER STOREWIDE EVERY DAY DON’T MISS OUT ON STOREWIDE SAVINGS! SIGN UP INSTORE OR ONLINE OPENING GRAND IOI CITY MALL PUTRAJAYA ON SALE Saturday 5th until Tuesday 8th August 2023* DOORS OPEN 9AM SATURDAY 5TH AUGUST UNTIL 10PM

4 theSUN ON THURSDAY | AUGUST 3, 2023 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS BUTTERWORTH: Penang Pakatan Harapan (PH) and Barisan Nasional (BN) launched their unity manifesto on Tuesday, with 16 main themes focused on people’s welfare and socio-economic status. Penang DAP vice-chairman Zairil Khir Johari said the manifesto is the continuation of the state government’s policies and its 15- year track record. The manifesto offers the setting up of a state social development fund from the collection of healthcare fees from foreigners to benefit the needy and aims to attract highimpact investments through the development of the Silicon Island project, slated to generate RM7 billion for the local economy during its construction period. The manifesto promises to develop a Meditech City in Batu Kawan and the GBS By The Sea project, and RM1,000 in aid to all Muslims in the B40 categoryto perform the haj, Bernama reported. It also pledged to start construction of the Penang Light Rail Transit and the Penang Hill cable car projects, RM600 annual aid for ehailing drivers and personal accident insurance for p-hailing riders, continuation of the annual RM600 assistance to taxi and school bus drivers, introducing the special rent housing scheme for youths and those who are single, and free laptops for B40 students who further their studies. “We will also provide living assistance payments to farmers and fishing net aid to fishermen, as well as introduce a one-off RM500 payment to newlyweds under the Mempelai Emas programme,” Zairil said. The PH-BN alliance would also implement the construction of several major road projects in the state. Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, DAP chairman Lim Guan Eng, Penang BN chairman Datuk Musa Sheikh Fadzir and PKR vice-president Nurul Izzah Anwar also attended the launch. Meanwhile, Zairil said the offer of “5 Tekad untuk 5 Tahun” (Five Determinations for Five Years) by the PH-BN coalition in its election manifesto for Selangor is realistic, covers every segment of society and is implementable. The majority of Selangor people are satisfied with the 53 offers contained in the manifesto, which he described as peopleoriented. The five determinations offered by the PHBN coalition in its election manifesto for Selangor are “Thriving Economy and Quality Education: Catalysts for High-Income Job Opportunities”, “Religion as the Light and Source of Inspiration for a Dignified Selangor”, “Efficient and Effective Government Services”, “Sustainable, Comfortable, and Liveable Development” and a state which cares and upholds the interests of all Selangorians. Special aid for those who qualify “Veterans who are reappointed on permanent, temporary and COS appointments and are still serving on Aug 10 are eligible to be paid RM300 with a payment of RM200 by PSD or JHEV and the remaining RM100 paid by the department where the officer is serving,” he said, adding that any federal civil service officer who dies on Aug 10 this year is also eligible for the special aid. However, the circular informs that the special aid is not eligible to be given to officers in the highest and equivalent management groups, including officers who are acting, borrowed or temporarily transferred, and special placements to Top Job Grade or Special Grade. In addition, officers who were subject to disciplinary dismissal or demotion, termination of service in the public interest and resigned during the period from Jan 1 to Aug 10 this year as well as retired officers who gave up their pension rights due to joining the Separated Statutory Body are also not eligible to receive the aid. Meanwhile, the postponement of the granting of the special aid will be applied to officers who have been arrested, suspended or issued with a letter of charge by the Disciplinary Authority. “Officers are only eligible to be paid the aid after being acquitted of disciplinary charges or subjected to punishment other than dismissal or demoted by the relevant authority and it will be paid on Aug 10 also by the department where the officer serves on the payment date. Last Thursday, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in his speech at the “Madani Economy: Empowering the People” launch ceremony announced special appreciation assistance for civil servants and government retirees this year, which will benefit 1.3 million civil servants and over a million retirees. – Bernama Penang PH-BN launches unity manifesto oPledges include aid for e-hailing drivers, RM1,000 for B40 haj pilgrims and construction of LRT and cable car facilities Four share RM12 million Toto jackpot KUALA LUMPUR: A retired property agent from Selangor won RM9.17 million from the RM12 million Toto 4D Jackpot 1 prize pool recently by betting on the mobile phone numbers of herself and her friend. The 63-year-old told Sports Toto that she is a regular player and spends RM300 per draw. “When we ran out of inspiration for numbers, we bet on our mobile phone numbers – 3322 and 9933. I won the jackpot partly because of my friend’s mobile phone number so I should share part of the winnings with her,” said the winner. She bought a System 4 ticket and another i-System 20 ticket with the same set of winning numbers and walked away with RM9,175,454.45. The woman said she would first use the winnings to pay off her debts and then buy a new house for the family. Three other lucky winners who also won in the same game that was drawn on July 19 were from Johor and Sarawak. A renovation contractor from Sarawak, who bought an i-Sytem 12 ticket, won RM1.5 million. “I was confident the numbers would bring me luck,” he said, adding that he would buy a new house and a car with his winnings. Another two i-System winners from Johor won the balance of the RM1.24 million jackpot. Open declaration of support by Sabah CM KOTA KINABALU: Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor’s sincere backing for the unity government can be seen through his gesture of accompanying Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim during nomination day in Selangor. Sabahan political analyst Mohd Zaki Harry Susanto said the open endorsement for the unity government puts to rest allegations by certain parties that seem to want to tarnish the reputation of the Hajiji-led coalition Gabung Rakyat Sabah. “As a leader of the Borneo bloc, Hajiji’s presence together with Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg sends a message that the struggles of local Sabah parties were in line with the government that is presently in power in Putrajaya. “Hajiji places the spirit of Sabah’s struggle, which led to the formation of Malaysia on Sept 16, 1963, as a priority. Their presence (Hajiji and Abang Johari) is proof that the unity government does not stand alone but is supported by the Borneo bloc,” he said. Mohd Zaki added that Hajiji’s wise approach would strengthen ties between the state and federal governments, which would ultimately benefit Sabah. “With good ties, policy implementation will be smoother. It’s also part of the initiative to ensure Sabah’s rights are fulfilled by the federal government,” he said, adding that Sabahans should support Hajiji’s stand for the state’s continued development and progress. “So far, we’ve heard a lot of good things announced by the federal government for Sabah, including a larger allocation. This happened because of the good ties between the state and federal governments.” – Bernama UNITY COALITIONS ... Pakatan Harapan and Barisan Nasional flags dominate a street scene in Gombak, Selangor, in the run-up to the state polls on Aug 12. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUN Ministry union committed to staff welfare KUALA LUMPUR: The Health Ministry’s main employee union, Mapsu (Majlis Gabungan Presiden dan Setiausaha Agung Kesatuan Sekerja), remains committed to the welfare of all ministry employees, its newly elected president Ajulahin Japin said on Tuesday. Ajulahin, who is also Sabah Medical Services Union president, said more engagement sessions would be held to express issues and problems related to employee welfare, which would hopefully gain the attention of the ministry’s top management. “The union is aware that the ministry, which has 119 staff schemes, certainly has various problems expressed by the union. It welcomes the ministry’s willingness to go to the field together with lower-level employees,” he said. Mapsu, representing 22 trade unions in the ministry with over 80,000 employees, welcomed Health Minister Dr Zaliha Mustafa’s commitment to study the various staff schemes. Ajulahin was elected during the ministry’s trade union convention in Malacca on July 26 and 27, which was attended by 52 trade union presidents and secretaries-general. – Bernama From front page

5 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS theSUN ON THURSDAY | AUGUST 3, 2023 Selangor determined to resolve flood issues SHAH ALAM: The Selangor government is committed to resolving statewide flood issues by closely monitoring all flood mitigation projects to ensure their completion as scheduled, said State Infrastructure and Public Amenities, Agriculture Modernisation and Agro-Based Industry Committee chairman Izham Hashim. In response to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s call to expedite such projects in four states, 25 of the 85 works allocated by the state and federal governments, valued at around RM1.11 billion, have been concluded in Selangor. Izham said the rest were currently at the implementation (physical work), pre-implementation (design) and planning (consultant appointment) stages, and are expected to be finished by 2025. “The state government granted the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID) RM615.06 million to implement 73 mitigation projects and RM41.4 million for eight projects under the ‘Akaun Amanah Caruman Parit’. “Meanwhile, the federal government allocated RM455.2 million to DID to implement the Sungai Kayu Ara Flood Mitigation Plan, Sungai Buloh Flood Mitigation Plan, Sungai Langat Flood Mitigation Plan Phase 1 and the Sungai Kuyoh Flood Mitigation Plan, which are expected to take six to seven years to complete.” Izham said the state government was working with the Shah Alam City Council, which has set aside a five-year allocation of RM300 million to upgrade drains and increase water pump units and reservoirs. “I am also working with the Klang Municipal Council, Petaling Jaya City Council, Subang Jaya City Council and the Ampang Jaya Municipal Council to oversee (such) projects along rivers in their respective areas. “As the federal and state mitigation programmes fall under DID’s jurisdiction, it is important to coordinate with the local authorities.” He said the state government, via DID, had made plans by using structural and non-structural measures. Izham added that structural measures include components such as the construction of flood banks, walls, tunnels, bypass channels and barrages for control purposes. – Bernama Court to sentence babysitter on Aug 15 JOHOR BAHRU: The Sessions Court yesterday fixed Aug 15 for the sentencing of a nursery worker who pleaded guilty to two charges of negligence involving two infants. Lawyer Syufri A. Samad said he was informed by the interpreter of the case postponement as Judge Datuk Che Wan Zaidi Che Wan Ibrahim had to be hospitalised. Nurul Shahira A’shiqin Sulaiman, 28, pleaded guilty on May 21 to charges of neglecting a nine-month-old girl and a seven-month-old boy. The court had set yesterday to hear the facts of the case. Although she held custody over the infants, she had acted in a manner which was likely to cause physical injury to them. Nurul Shahira A’shiqin committed the offence in March at a nursery in Jalan Utama 34, Taman Mutiara Rini. The offence is punishable under Section 31 (1) (a) of the Child Act 2001, which carries a fine of not more than RM50,000, imprisonment of up to 20 years, or both. A good behaviour bond and community service may also be imposed. – Bernama Unhygienic food factories suspended MALACCA: The Health Department here has suspended four food processing factories for 14 days due to poor cleanliness, discovered during inspections conducted on Monday and Tuesday. Its director Datuk Dr Rusdi Abd Rahman said the factories in Bukit Rambai, Batu Berendam, Serkam and Umbai have been instructed to carry out cleaning works before being allowed to resume operations. He added that six compounds involving RM15,000 were issued for not implementing the Food Safety Assurance Programme and failing to administer anti-typhoid vaccinations to food handlers. “We also found rat droppings and cigarette butts at the premises. The temporary closure order was made under Section 11 of the Food Act 1983. “During the (entire) operation, 13 food factories in the Central Malacca, Alor Gajah and Jasin districts were inspected and 15 compounds involving RM35,200 were issued under the Food Hygiene Regulations 2009,” he said in a statement yesterday. Rusli added that any complaints related to dirty food processing premises or the sale of damaged and expired food products can be channelled to the nearest district health office or http://moh.spab.gov.my. – Bernama Man acquitted of misusing RM10,000 KUALA LUMPUR: The Sessions Court yesterday acquitted and discharged a businessman from a charge of misappropriating RM10,000 belonging to oil and gas company FMG Synergy Sdn Bhd, allegedly using the funds for his own purposes. Judge Datin Sabariah Othman ordered Mohamed Noor Mohamed Amin, 50, to be freed after finding the prosecution failed to establish a prima facie case at the end of the trial. “After hearing the testimony of prosecution witnesses and the documents presented, the court finds that the prosecution failed to establish strong evidence to prove that the RM10,000 belonged to FMG Synergy. “There is no evidence to show that the company’s funds had been misappropriated by the accused. The court hereby acquits and discharges him without calling for his defence under Section 403 of the Penal Code,” Sabariah said. Mohamed Noor was charged with misappropriating RM10,000 to pay his credit card bills at a bank in Jalan Ipoh on Sept 19, 2018. The prosecution was conducted by DPP Shakira Aliana Alias while Nurul Huda Razali represented Mohamed Noor. – Bernama Conveying life lessons through artworks KUALA LUMPUR: A painter with a difference, Mohd Shaimy Hashim has triggered countless discussions among the public and art enthusiasts over the meaning of his creations. Mohd Shaimy, 70, said he uses art as a medium to entice viewers to ponder upon a diverse range of essential life lessons. “My painting telur di hujung tanduk seeks to inform viewers that although life is Mohd Shaimy explaining the essence of one of his paintings at the exhibition. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUN oSeasoned painter hopes future artists learn from his creations on struggles of profession █ BY ETHAN YEO [email protected] precious, there is still enjoyment to be had. “It is a balancing act. It means we must be careful with how we proceed in life and try to avoid mistakes while also living life on the edge.” He expressed hope that future artists could learn from the essence of his creations on the struggles of a fellow painter. “Being an artist is not an easy path and it is certainly not a new thing. There are times when people are unable to understand and appreciate the art you created. “I have been through such hardships. I own the Pantai Timur Gallery in Kuantan and it is common for visitors to enter and question whether what I painted was art. “They only see eeriness in the paintings when viewing them objectively.” According to Mohd Shaimy, painting is a time-consuming art form, taking up to several months to finalise a piece of work when in the right mindset. “The bigger pieces can take years to complete. The process cannot be completed in one session and it is normal for the final product to change in comparison with the image in my mind.” Mohd Shaimy, who is also chairman of Senika Pahang, an art organisation in the state, said the cornerstone of his style comprises two elements. “One is Pak Dogol, representing the intellect which a person can possess regardless of their looks, while the other is the banyan tree, symbolising a world filled with life. “My inspiration comes from traditional folklore with an emphasis on wayang kulit performances because I am extremely interested in Malaysian culture and heritage,” he added. Those interested may visit the Malaysia Tourism Centre to view his month-long exhibition, called “Shaimy Hashim: Dream Realm – Paintings & Drawings 1982-2022”.

6 theSUN ON THURSDAY | AUGUST 3, 2023 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS Singapore premier mounts defence of scandal-hit ruling party SINGAPORE: Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong mounted a vigorous defence of his long-ruling People’s Action Party yesterday, even as he acknowledged it had “taken a hit” after a rare spate of political scandals. Lee vowed, however, to “show Singaporeans that we will uphold standards and do the right thing, so that trust is maintained, and the Singapore system continues to work well”. Singapore has capitalised on its reputation for clean government to attract massive foreign investments and turn the city-state into a financial and commercial hub. But that reputation has been threatened by two major furores: a cabinet minister’s arrest amid a corruption probe; and two PAP legislators resigning because of an affair. Before that, two heavyweight cabinet members were investigated for allegedly getting favours in their rental of sprawling colonial-era bungalows, but were subsequently cleared of any wrongdoing. “Let me assure Singaporeans that we will protect the integrity of our system of government. For the good of our country, we will carry through what needs to be done in accordance with the law, even if it may be politically embarrassing and painful to the party,” Lee said. “I will not flinch or hesitate to do my duty, to keep our system robust and clean. This is how the PAP government can continue to deserve the trust that Singaporeans have placed in us.” Lee said he could not give further details about the probe into Transport Minister S. Iswaran, who he had ordered to go on leave, because investigations were still under way. Iswaran was arrested and released on bail last month after powerful anti-graft body the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau launched a probe into him. Also last month, Parliament speaker Tan Chuan Jin and a woman legislator resigned because of an affair. The scandals come as the party – which has ruled uninterrupted for 64 years – bounces back from its worst ever election results in 2020, when its share of the popular vote fell to a near-record low and the opposition gained more seats. The next general election is not due until 2025, with a younger generation of leaders expected to take the lead. Lee, 71, had earlier said he would hand the leadership to current deputy Lawrence Wong, though he gave no timeline. – AFP Beijing reports heaviest rain in 140 years BEIJING: Deadly rains that pummelled China’s capital in recent days were the heaviest since records began 140 years ago, the city’s weather service said yesterday, as a massive cleanup operation began. Millions of people have been hit by extreme weather events and prolonged heatwaves around the globe in recent weeks – events that scientists say are being exacerbated by climate change. And the Beijing Meteorological Service said the capital has just experienced the “heaviest rainfall in 140 years”, when city authorities started keeping records. “The maximum (amount) of rainfall recorded during this storm, which was 744.8mm, occurred at the Wangjiayuan Reservoir in Changping,” the service said, adding the largest volume previously recorded was 609mm in 1891. At least 11 people have died in the rains in Beijing, state broadcaster CCTV said on Tuesday, with more than a dozen missing. The epicentre of flooding shifted to neighbouring Hebei province yesterday. In Beijing’s Fangshan district – on the border between the capital and Hebei – an AFP team saw a park that had been completely flooded, with tonnes of rubbish that had been washed away by torrential rains stuck near a bridge. The area had been “extremely dangerous” on Tuesday, a police officer said. Journalists also saw a military vehicle with caterpillar wheels on its way back from the most affected areas. In the opposite direction, AFP saw an ambulance, a rescue boat and a police car heading to Zhuozhou, a hard-hit district of Hebei. Media footage showed rescuers rowing inflatable rafts through waterlogged neighbourhoods, while locals clung to construction scaffolding awaiting help. State media warned last week that 130 million people would be affected by the extremely heavy rainfall across northern China. – AFP Move Forward excluded from coalition BANGKOK: The reformist party that won Thailand’s general election was excluded yesterday from a coalition trying to form the next government, as lawmakers seek to overcome resistance from military and pro-royalist senators. The Move Forward Party (MFP) won the most seats in May’s election, riding a wave of support from young and urban Thais weary of almost a decade of army-backed rule, but it fell well short of a majority. An eight-party coalition including oPheu Thai party picks property tycoon as PM candidate Hundreds of scouts suffer heat exhaustion in South Korea SEOUL: Hundreds of scouts at a massive jamboree in South Korea suffered heat exhaustion, organisers said yesterday, as the peninsula battles a heatwave that has caused a reported spike in heat-related deaths. Around 43,000 people from across the world are currently taking part in the World Scout Jamboree – known as the world’s largest youth camp. This year, the event is being held in North Jeolla province where a heatwave warning is in place, with temperatures hovering at 35°C daily. There were roughly 400 cases of heat exhaustion on the first night at the campsite, organisers said. One Malaysian scout told a South Korean newspaper that the weather was even hotter than in his country: “It was so hot that I got a migraine.” Local media reported that scouts from the United States, Britain, Belgium, Bangladesh, Colombia, Poland and Sweden were affected. South Korea’s government has issued its highest-possible heat warning as temperatures soar this summer, with 21 deaths from heat-related illnesses reported so far. Many of the deaths have occurred in the countryside, with elderly farmers passing out and dying after working outside in the sweltering heat. In North Korea, authorities are also ramping up efforts to prepare for a heatwave, with temperatures expected to reach 37°C in some parts of the country this week. Rodong Sinmun newspaper advised the elderly to refrain from doing outdoor activities and urged residents to stay hydrated. – AFP B R I E F SCHINA ACCUSED OF ‘WRECKING TACTICS’ BEIJING: China denied yesterday reports that it had obstructed climate discussions between G20 environment ministers last week, saying it was “regrettable” they had failed to reach an agreement. Last week’s negotiations in India failed to reach a consensus on tripling renewable energy use. French Ecological Transition Minister Christophe Bechu told AFP that discussions with China, Saudi Arabia and Russia had been “complicated”. One source told Financial Times that China, the world’s largest carbon emitter, used “wrecking tactics” to block debate. Beijing hit back yesterday, with its Foreign Ministry insisting “relevant reports totally run counter to the facts”. – AFP TYPHOON KNOCKS OUT POWER IN JAPAN TOKYO: One person was reportedly killed and hundreds of thousands were without electricity in southern Japan yesterday as a typhoon appproached packing powerful winds and lashing rain. Hundreds of flights to Okinawa and other islands in the area were cancelled, stranding thousands of tourists holidaying in the region’s tropical beach resorts. Typhoon Khanun brought maximum sustained wind speeds of 180kph. Okinawa’s power company said 220,580 households – nearly 35% of the total in the region – had no electricity early yesterday. A 90-year-old man died after being trapped under a collapsed garage on Tuesday evening, broadcaster NHK reported, adding strong winds were probably the cause. – AFP MFP’s closest rival, Pheu Thai, was not enough to get its leader Pita Limjaroenrat elected prime minister, leaving the kingdom in political deadlock. Harvard-educated Pita, 42, was blocked from the top job by the Senate – whose members were handpicked by the last junta – because of his determination to reform Thailand’s tough royal defamation laws. After weeks of backroom haggling, Pheu Thai leader Chonlanan Srikaew announced that MFP was out of the coalition. “The formation of the new government will not include MFP. “Pheu Thai will work to get enough votes, MFP will be in opposition, and we will work in a new dimension that is beneficial to the people.” The news sparked an angry protest by some MFP supporters, who burned effigies and shouted abuse outside Pheu Thai’s offices. The party will now put forward property tycoon Srettha Thavisin as its candidate to become prime minister, Chonlanan said. To become prime minister, a candidate must be approved by a majority of both houses of Parliament – the 500 elected MPs and the 250 senators appointed under the last junta. Pita managed 324 votes across the two houses in the first vote in Parliament, with only 13 senators supporting him. He was blocked from running in a second ballot and suspended as an MP by the Constitutional Court over his ownership of media shares, which is prohibited for lawmakers under Thai law. Last month, MFP announced it was stepping back from efforts to form a government, allowing Pheu Thai to lead the coalition instead. A senior MFP leader said the priority was not to make Pita prime minister but to safeguard Thai democracy by shutting out former junta leaders such as outgoing premier Prayut Chan-O-Cha. Pheu Thai is seen as a vehicle for the Shinawatra political clan, whose members include two former prime ministers, Thaksin and Yingluck, ousted by military coups in 2006 and 2014. Talks aimed at garnering more support for the coalition from other parties revealed that MFP’s insistence on lese-majeste reform was a major stumbling block, Chonlanan said. “Several parties have made it clear that they will not support any government with MFP in the coalition.” As well as royal defamation reform, MFP also spooked the Thai establishment with pledges to reform the military and break up business monopolies that dominate the kingdom’s economy. Political analyst Thitinan Pongsudhirak said once Pita lost the premiership vote it was “only a matter of time” before Pheu Thai jettisoned MFP. “At issue now is whether MFP will still support a Pheu Thai PM candidate to marginalise the Senate. “If so, it would be a snub to the coupmakers.” Another vote to choose a premier is slated for tomorrow. – AFP Residents evacuating a flooded area after heavy rains in the city of Baoding in Hebei province. – AFPPIC

7 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS theSUN ON THURSDAY | AUGUST 3, 2023 Trump indicted for trying to overturn election oEx-president fuelled Capitol riots with his lies, says special counsel WASHINGTON: Donald Trump was indicted on Tuesday over his efforts to upend the results of the 2020 US election – the most serious legal threat yet to the former president as he campaigns to return to the White House. It is the third criminal indictment of the 77-year-old Trump since March and charges him with three counts of conspiracy and one count of obstruction. Trump, the frontrunner for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination, is already scheduled to go on trial in Florida in May of next year for allegedly mishandling top secret government documents. The new charges, two of which carry maximum sentences of 20 years in prison, raise the prospect of Trump being embroiled in more legal proceedings at the height of what is expected to be a bitter and divisive presidential campaign. The indictment brought by special counsel Jack Smith accuses Trump of conspiracy to defraud the US and conspiracy to obstruct an official proceeding – the Jan 6, 2021 joint session of Congress held to certify Democrat Joe Biden’s election victory. Trump is also accused in the 45-page indictment of seeking to disenfranchise American voters with his false claims that he won the November 2020 presidential election. B R I E F SARMED GANG ROBS PARIS JEWELLERY STORE PARIS: Armed robbers raided a store of the luxury Swiss watch brand Piaget in central Paris on Tuesday, escaping with between €10 million (RM50 million) to €15 million worth of jewellery, the prosecutor’s office said. The robbery took place around lunchtime at the store on the Rue de la Paix in the upscale Place Vendome area, home to several jewellers, watchmakers and luxury brands. The area has seen a spate of armed robberies in recent years. An investigation is now under way and a source said police were looking for three suspects. Piaget is part of Swiss luxury goods group Richemont. – Reuters TUNISIA PRESIDENT DISMISSES PREMIER TUNIS: Tunisian President Kais Saied sacked Prime Minister Najla Bouden without explanation on Tuesday and replaced her with former central bank executive Ahmed Hachani, whom he tasked with overcoming the “colossal challenges” facing the cashstrapped country. No official explanation was given for Bouden’s dismissal, but several local media outlets highlighted the president’s displeasure over a number of shortages, particularly of bread in state-subsidised bakeries. Kais said “there are colossal challenges that we must overcome in order to protect our homeland and social peace”. – AFP “Shortly after election day – which fell on Nov 3, 2020 – the defendant launched his criminal scheme,” said the indictment, handed down by a grand jury in Washington. “The purpose of the conspiracy was to overturn the legitimate results of the 2020 presidential election by using knowingly false claims of election fraud.” Smith, a former war crimes prosecutor at the Hague, said the Jan 6 attack on the Capitol by Trump supporters was “an unprecedented assault on the seat of American democracy”. “It was fuelled by lies,” Smith told reporters in brief remarks. “Lies by the defendant targeted at obstructing a bedrock function of the US government – the nation’s process of collecting, counting and certifying the results of the presidential election.” Part of that plan, the indictment alleges, was to have then vice-president Mike Pence use his role as presiding officer over the Jan 6 joint session to throw out several states’ votes. Pence ultimately refused, issuing a public statement saying that he did not believe the Constitution allowed him that power. As Trump’s supporters later stormed the US Capitol, where Pence was in hiding, Trump tweeted that his vice-president “didn’t have the courage to do what should have been done”. The indictment mentions six co-conspirators but none are idenltified and Trump, who is to be arraigned today, is the only named defendant. Trump lashed out at the special counsel, calling him “deranged” and accusing him of issuing “yet another fake indictment” to “interfere with the presidential election”. – AFP HARD LIFE ... Hundreds of newly arrived migrants sleeping while waiting in line for temporary housing at the Roosevelt Hotel intake centre in American financial capital New York. – AFPPIC Rwanda imposes curfew to curb noise pollution KIGALI: Rwanda has imposed a curfew on all “non-essential services” to reduce what the government calls “noise pollution”, a move that has angered nightclub owners who say it will hurt their business. “For effective regulation of night-time entertainment and noise pollution, the Cabinet established closing time of non-essential services at 1am on working days, and 2am on weekends (Friday and Saturday), effective Sept 1,” the government announced on Tuesday. Under the hardline rule of President Paul Kagame, police in the east African nation have been cracking down on noise pollution, ordering bars to close and confiscating equipment from entertainment venues. One nightclub owner who spoke to AFP on condition of anonymity said the latest restrictions were “backward and will definitely kill businesses”. Last month the government issued noise pollution guidelines, limiting sound levels in commercial areas to 55 decibels at night. – AFP AI could speed breast cancer checks PARIS: Artificial intelligence could help almost halve the workload of radiologists when it comes to searching routine scans for signs of breast cancer, a large Swedish study suggested yesterday. The interim results of the trial were hailed as promising, but the authors cautioned that more research was needed before AI can be used to screen for breast cancer on a wider scale. While increasingly convincing chatbots such as ChatGPT have driven speculation about the future potential applications of AI, one area in which the technology has already shown proficiency is in reading medical scans. With many countries suffering from a shortage of radiologists, there are hopes that AI could make the timeconsuming job of analysing routine scans quicker and more accurate. This could have a particularly large impact for breast cancer. More than 2.3 million women were diagnosed with the cancer in 2020 alone, it caused 685,000 deaths. Regular screening is vital to identifying early signs of cancer. In Europe, women aged 50 to 69 are advised to get a mammogram every two years, with the resulting scan analysed by two radiologists. The study in Sweden involved the scans of 80,000 women who had mammograms at four sites between April 2021 and July last year. Their scans were randomly divided for analysis to either an AI-supported system or two human radiologists, who served as the control group. The AI algorithm read the scans and predicted the risk of cancer out of 10. Its predictions were then checked by a radiologist. The AI-supported system spotted 20% more cancers which worked out to be an additional case for every thousand women screened. When it came to false positives – when a mammogram is first thought to look suspicious but is later cleared – both the AI group and the two humans spotted the same rate: 1.5%. The workload for radiologists was reduced by 44% for the AI group, because only one person was required to read the scans rather than the normal two. – AFP SAN SALVADOR: Thousands of Salvadoran soldiers and police officers on Tuesday surrounded the central region of Cabanas as part of a massive crackdown on gang activity. President Nayib Bukele imposed a state of emergency in March last year that has seen tens of thousands of alleged gang members rounded up – a move popular among residents, but which has alarmed rights groups. Security forces have on several occasions besieged key cities to carry out house-to-house searches for gang members, but it is the first time an entire department is being cordoned off. “Since this morning, 7,000 soldiers and 1,000 police officers have established a security fence around the entire department of Cabanas,” Bukele tweeted. “Their job will be to prevent gang members from leaving the area and cut off all supply lines belonging to terrorist groups.” Bukele said that Cabanas had in recent weeks become a refuge for gang cells fleeing his crackdown. He said the blockade would last until “the operatives can extract all gang members”. Cabanas is a small, agricultural region that is home to some 150,000 people. – AFP El Salvador rings off entire region in crackdown on gangs

8 theSUN ON THURSDAY | AUGUST 3, 2023 SPEAK UP THE installation of dashcams in all vehicles across the country should be made mandatory. These hightech devices can provide valuable assistance to individuals when they encounter any road-related problems or issues. Over the years, dashcams have significantly evolved, becoming unassuming electronics that can be effortlessly mounted in various parts of a vehicle. Dashcams can prove advantageous in liability cases. In situations where a driver is involved in an accident or is accused of a crime, the footage from a dashcam can be used as evidence to support the driver’s position in court. We are exposed to various hazards while driving on the roads, such as accidents, snatch theft, road bullying, harassment and other potential dangers. Installing these devices in our vehicles can be useful when we need to report incidents to the authorities, present evidence in court cases, file insurance claims or seek compensation and remedies. According to the law, dashcam footage is classified as evidence. Section 3 of the Evidence Act 1950 (Act 56) defines evidence, which includes all statements made by witnesses in relation to matters of fact under inquiry, known as oral evidence, and all documents presented for the inspection of the court referred to as documentary evidence. It should be highlighted that the term “includes” used in this Section signifies that any item can be considered evidence to support or strengthen a case in court. This interpretation is based on the precedent set by the case of Chin Seow Noi v PP (1994), where the court explicitly stated that the use of the word “includes” in Section 3 is intended to provide an expansive definition of the word “evidence”. This means that courts will admit @thesundaily FOLLOW ON INSTAGRAM SCAN ME Make dashcams mandatory for vehicles “Dashcams can prove advantageous in liability cases. In situations where a driver is involved in an accident or is accused of a crime, the footage from a dashcam can be used as evidence to support the driver’s position in court. Rethink move to discharge treated radioactive water into ocean ACCCIM (Associated Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Malaysia) is concerned about the proposed discharge of a substantial amount of treated radioactive water from the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant into the Pacific Ocean over the course of 30 to 40 years. The possible severe immediate and long-term implications of nuclear waste water on our national waters cannot be ignored, given the movement of ocean currents and the migration of marine life. We have to remain vigilant about the potential risks of contamination in the food chains and the impact on marine life, which can pose threats to human health. To address these concerns, ACCCIM has raised the matter with Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Chang Lih Kang. As a result, a discussion between the Malaysia Nuclear Agency and ACCCIM will be organised. This meeting aims to facilitate an exchange of views on the issue at hand and to closely monitor any further developments. We call upon the government and Asean authorities to address this significant concern with their Japanese counterparts. The scheduled release of treated nuclear wastewater this month has the potential to cause irreparable harm to the trust that regional countries and business sectors have placed in the Japanese government. Although the IAEA (International Atomic Energy Agency) has released a neutrality report, there has been no official confirmation from prominent medical associations in G7 countries or the Asia-Pacific region regarding the planned discharge of nuclear water into the ocean. This lack of confirmation raises concerns about the severe pollution and health hazards as well as harm to the marine ecosystem. According to Tokyo Electric Power, the operator of the nuclear plant, approximately 1.3 million tonnes of water will be treated before being pumped into the ocean, except for the radioactive element tritium, which is challenging to separate from water. The worry is that once radioactive tritium enters the body’s cells over an extended period, the damage may not become evident until years later. Some scientists have raised concerns regarding the lack of established scientific evidence of nuclear water on the long-term impact on marine life and the human body. Therefore, it is prudent to explore alternative options before proceeding. Some of these options include utilising the treated nuclear water for domestic or industrial purposes, such as in the construction sector or disposing of the nuclear water along the extensive highways across the country. ACCCIM hopes that the Japanese government will consider the public concerns raised by regional countries before reaching a final decision. The importance of long-term human health concerns outweighs all other considerations. ACCCIM Approximately 1.3 million tonnes of nuclear water will be treated before being pumped into the Pacific Ocean. – REUTERSPIC COMMENT by Dr Muzaffar Syah Mallow LETTERS [email protected] dashcam videos as evidence as long as they are relevant and credible to the case at hand. It should be noted that a dashcam can also be classified as documentary evidence according to the provisions of the Evidence Act 1950. In Section 3 of the Act, a document is defined as any matter expressed, described or howsoever represented on any substance, material, thing or article in a disc, tape, film, soundtrack or other device, which includes: (a) Letters, figures, marks, symbols, signals, signs or any other forms of expression, description or representation; (b) Visual recordings, whether still or moving images; (c) Sound recordings or any electronic magnetic, mechanical or other recordings, including sounds, electronic impulses or other data; (d) Recordings or transmissions of any matter using any combination of the means mentioned in (a), (b) or (c) or more than one of these means, with the intention of expressing, describing or representing that matter. After fulfilling the authentication process provided in Sections 61 to 66 of the Evidence Act, a dashcam can serve as documentary evidence, strengthening a legal case in court. We should thoroughly review existing legislation, including the Road Transport Act 1987, and consider making dashcams a mandatory tool or component in all vehicles. We should not undermine the importance of dashcams, given the numerous incidences occurring on the roads daily. Dashcams can be crucial evidence to help us when the need arises. The writer is an Associate Professor at the Faculty of Syariah and Law, Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia. Comments: [email protected]

9 SPEAK UP theSUN ON THURSDAY | AUGUST 3, 2023 Beware of hazards on highways I WANT to share a recent incident that happened to me on the Plus North-South Expressway. I was driving from Port Dickson to Petaling Jaya and had taken the North-South Expressway via Mambau. Approximately 20 minutes into my journey, between Seremban and Nillai, I saw a huge obstacle in the middle lane – a large slab of concrete. A truck ahead of me managed to swerve around it but I found myself in a challenging situation. Both the left and right lanes had vehicles, and it was a busy Friday night, leaving me with no option but to brake or change lanes at the last moment. Concerned about causing a collision, I had to drive over the concrete slab, leading to a loud noise coming from the undercarriage of my car, indicating substantial damage. Thankfully, I made it home safely, although I had to drive slowly. I shudder to think of what could have happened had my car veered off-course and hit the concrete slab, potentially leading to severe damage and even loss of life. This incident left me shaken and it continues to have a significant impact on me mentally. Driving on expressways now fills me with fear. I reached out to the highway concessionaire PLUS to report the incident, and they apologised, providing a link for me to make a claim. However, the claim process proved to be complex. One of the prerequisites was to file a police report, so a few days after the incident, I went to the police station. Unfortunately, the police stated that the location of the incident fell outside their jurisdiction and directed me to the nearest police station where it occurred. This bureaucratic process complicated my efforts to claim insurance for the car repairs. Upon visiting the workshop, my mechanic informed me that the estimated damages could amount to RM10,000. I attempted to find more information on the claim process through the Malaysian Highway Authority portal but it proved disappointing as the website’s poor design made it challenging to access relevant information. To prevent such incidents in the future and make it easier for victims to be compensated, I suggest that PLUS installs more CCTV cameras along the highways. These cameras can help capture evidence of culprits responsible for dropping hazardous objects on the road and subsequently aid in their apprehension. The incident has had a profound effect on my confidence and composure while driving and it may take some time for me to regain my sense of security on the road. Jolted Senior Citizen Grateful for Madani Medical Scheme MOST Malaysians think that the process of securing government aid can be complicated. I was one of them until I took my mother to a private clinic in Gombak for a consultation for fever and cough under the Madani Medical Scheme. The scheme, introduced by the government, is intended for the B40 group to get treatment in selected private clinics. As my mother falls under the category of B40, she is eligible for the scheme, where each household is entitled to get treatment, including medication, for up to RM250. When I took her to a private clinic nearby, she was only required to have her MyKad. After making a few verifications, she was told that she was eligible. The whole process was not complicated and was rather straightforward. As that was her first treatment in a private clinic, she still has a balance of her RM250 quota, which is valid until the end of the year. The scheme is convenient for people like my mother to get medical treatment. Before this, she would visit a Klinik Kesihatan nearby, and these places were often crowded with patients. Furthermore, as the public health clinic operates only during office hours, my siblings and I would have to take time off from work to take her there. But with the Madani Medical Scheme, she can visit participating private clinics, many of which are open until late. And the best part is that the treatment, including medication, is free. Many Malaysians are not aware of the scheme. The government and media should make efforts to promote the scheme through various channels, such as websites and social media, to increase awareness of its benefits. It is an innovative and helpful scheme, and eligible Malaysians should seize the opportunity offered by the Madani government. I hope the government will extend this scheme beyond this year and its coverage so that more Malaysians can enjoy this benefit. I wish to express my deepest appreciation to Health Minister Dr Zaliha Mustafa and her team in the Health Ministry for a job well done. Mohd Ariffin Mohd Izam Teluk Intan Allure of gaming and scrolling OVER the past decade, casual gaming has experienced a remarkable surge in popularity. Games like Candy Crush, which was first released in 2012, have gained widespread acclaim for their easy-to-learn mechanics, requiring minimal time investment while offering instant gratification. These casual games have become the preferred pastime for many, particularly those seeking quick entertainment during short breaks or downtime. They include various genres, from puzzlesolving games like Wordle, acquired by The New York Times in 2022, to simulation and strategy games, such as Temple Run by Imangi Studios, released in 2011. The appeal of these games lies in their simplicity, accessibility and ability to engage players for brief periods. Unlike traditional video games that demand lengthy gameplay sessions, casual games can be enjoyed in just a few minutes, making them perfect for on-the-go entertainment. Research indicates that casual gaming attracts a specific demographic, including busy professionals, students and individuals seeking moments of respite from their daily routines. According to a recent market research study published by Contrive Datum Insights in May, the mobile and wearable gaming market size was valued at US$71.6 billion (RM327 billion) in 2022 and is projected to reach US$171.05 billion by 2030. The fascination with casual gaming lies in the perception of achieving a sense of accomplishment or productivity within a short timeframe. Similarly, social media scrolling has also become a ubiquitous phenomenon in our digital age. While the term “scrolling” may have negative connotations, the action itself is often seen as an effortless way to fill gaps of unproductivity. People of all ages engage in scrolling during short intervals, such as waiting for an elevator or while using public transport. Social media’s appeal lies in its image of offering instantaneous updates, bite-sized information and brief moments of connection with others. Platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok and recently, Threads, have amassed a vast number of users globally, highlighting the widespread acceptance of this “productive” pastime. The active user base on these platforms has reached unprecedented levels, with billions of individuals seeking bite-sized content that fits into their busy lives. The perception of social media as a quick and efficient source of information and social interaction has been firmly embedded into our daily routines. On a different note, the recent revelation by the Education Ministry that almost 49% of Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) holders chose not to pursue their studies has understandably caused a stir. Addressing this issue may involve re-evaluating the image of education and exploring potential solutions. Education has long been associated with a substantial time-commitment, spanning over 12 years of primary and secondary education, followed by several more years for higher studies or professional courses. This time-consuming nature of education may be the reason that individuals are discouraged from pursuing lifelong learning or furthering their studies, as evidenced by the case of SPM students. To overcome this challenge, we need to reimagine education as something that does not demand an excessive amount of time while still providing a sense of productivity and accomplishment. By reframing the concept of learning, we can encourage more students to continue their studies and motivate others to embrace lifelong learning. The successes of casual gaming and social media scrolling can offer valuable inspiration in this regard. We should draw insights from these popular activities and remodel educational content to align with human nature, offering short, satisfying learning experiences that can be accessed anywhere and anytime, hence, revolutionising the image of education. I believe the educational system requires a much-needed makeover. This would involve breaking down traditional barriers, introducing gamified experiences and providing interactive platforms that cater to individuals’ schedules. This innovative approach will enable learning to be seamlessly integrated into our busy lives, akin to the appeal of casual gaming and social media scrolling. By embracing efficiency and flexibility, we can transform education into a more accessible and engaging experience for learners of all ages. Let us envision education and empower individuals to embrace life-long learning in the same way, that is short and yet fulfilling. The writer is an Associate Professor at the Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Malaya. Comments: [email protected] LETTERS [email protected] COMMENT by Assoc Prof Ir Dr Nahrizul Adib Kadri Candy Crush was first released in 2012 and gained widespread acclaim for its easy-to-learn mechanics. – REUTERSPIC “By reframing the concept of learning, we can encourage more students to continue their studies and motivate others to embrace life-long learning. We should remodel educational content to align with human nature, offering short, satisfying learning experiences that can be accessed anywhere and anytime, hence, revolutionising the image of education.

10 theSUN ON THURSDAY | AUGUST 3, 2023 Promising signs of growth, resilience KUALA LUMPUR: The real estate sector has shown promising signs of growth and resilience during the first half of this year (H1’23), supported by a favourable economic landscape, said Knight Frank Malaysia. In its Real Estate Highlights report for H1’23, the independent global property consultancy firm provided insights into the performance of the property markets across Klang Valley, Penang, Johor Baru and Kota Kinabalu. It said the country’s residential property market staged a strong rebound in 2022 with a 22.4% yearly increase in sales volume and a corresponding 22.6% growth in sales value following the normalisation of economic activity. During the review period, the oMarket supported by favourable economic picture in first-half 2023, green incentives key to driving sector forward: Knight Frank Malaysia condominium and serviced apartment segment in Kuala Lumpur experienced mixed trends in prices, with properties in Kenny Hills and Mont Kiara seeing price growth, while those in KL city and Bangsar saw slight declines in average transacted prices. “In the first quarter of this year, 53,923 residential properties with a collective value of RM20,874,560 were sold,” it said. Nonetheless, the firm remains cautiously optimistic about the recovery of the residential property market due to rising borrowing costs and inflationary pressures amid a slowing economy. As for the office sector, Knight Frank Malaysia observed strengthening market activity as the business climate continues to stabilise. “For the retail sector, Malaysia’s retail sales expanded 13.8% in Q1’23 following an impressive growth of 33.3% for the full year of 2022. “However, with slowing global growth amid weaker economic outlook, annual retail sales growth for 2023 is projected to moderate to 4.8%,” it said. It noted that the scheduled completions and openings of The Exchange TRX and Pavilion Damansara Heights (Phase 1) – two highly anticipated shopping centres with a collective retail space of circa 1.83 million sq ft – are expected to take place in H2’23. Meanwhile, for the industrial sector, the market in Klang Valley continues to gain momentum, propelled by a surge in demand from end-users, manufacturers,and investors. “The country has emerged as the top destination for data centre investments with Cyberjaya being the main location in Klang Valley, while emerging locations include Bukit Jalil and Petaling Jaya. “Moreover, the forthcoming completion of major infrastructure projects, such as the West Coast Expressway and the East Coast Rail Link by 2025 and 2027, respectively, are set to revolutionise connectivity between industrial areas in the region,” it said. Rounding off the outlook for 2023, Knight Frank Malaysia concluded that introducing green incentives would be the key to driving the property sector forward. “We hope that the government will continue to introduce ‘green incentives’, aimed at property buyers, landlords, occupiers and developers who are aligned with the nation’s target of becoming a ‘net zero’ nation by 2050,” it added. – Bernama MRT Corp, Hong Kong MTR sign pact for mixed development next to RTS Link KUALA LUMPUR: A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed between Mass Rapid Transit Corporation Sdn Bhd (MRT Corp) and MTR Corporation Limited, a company listed on the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong (MTR Corporation) for a mixed property development at Bukit Chagar RTS Station, Johor Baru. Capitalising on cross-border economies, this property venture is expected to transform Bukit Chagar into a southern economic hub. The MoU affirms the collaboration between MRT Corp and MTR Corporation in the areas of technical design and integration of lifestyle with rail. Both parties will also plan the space efficiently to ensure sustainability of development and mobility of people by integrating the property development with the RTS Link infrastructure. Present during the ceremony on behalf of MRT Corp was its CEO Datuk Mohd Zarif Hashim, while MTR Corporation Property and International business director David Tang Chi Fai signed on behalf of MTR Corporation. Also present to witness the signing ceremony were Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook, Hong Kong Secretary for Transport and Logistics Lam Sai-hung, MRT Corp chairman Tan Sri Bashir Ahmad Abdul Majid and MTR Corporation chairman Dr Rex Auyeung. The development will occupy 6 acres of land with about 3 million sq ft of gross floor area. Through this collaboration, both companies aspire to build lively communities at Bukit Chagar such as hospitality offerings, healthcare and wellness services. The mixed property development will connect existing transport services in Johor Baru including the KTM ETS, city buses and the future Bus Rail Transit. “We are going to place heavy emphasis on content that capitalises on the cross-border economies. There will be ample opportunities for various types of investors, local or international alike. It is envisaged that the Bukit From left: MRT Corp director Datuk Jana Santhiran Muniayan, Bashir Ahmad, Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu, Auyeung and Tang. Chagar regeneration will redefine urban living, integrating hardware, software and mobility from the very onset of the RTS Link Project,” said Mohd Zarif. “MTR Corporation has been making good use of the ‘Rail plus Property’ model to support railway operations and the development of Hong Kong. The Corporation utilises the profits that our property developments bring in to support the operations and long-term maintenance of railway, as well as to finance new railway projects. The model also enables the Corporation to build many sustainable and lively communities by integrating railway, residential and commercial elements. This MoU marks the beginning of a relationship that will see the exchange of technical knowhow and experience in important areas of implementing TOD projects along the railway. We look forward to cooperating with MRT Corp to develop cities along the railway for their citizens with our expertise in building new communities under the ‘Rail plus Property’ model and providing seamless experience of railway and property,” said Tang. Mohd Zarif added “The Rail plus Property model is the new paradigm being implemented by MRT Corp”. Upon completion of this venture in Johor Baru, the mixed property development will be fully integrated and seamlessly linked with the ICQ Complex and Bukit Chagar RTS Station, which directly connects Johor Baru and Woodlands North Station in Singapore. Construction sector embraces technology to boost productivity, competitiveness KUALA LUMPUR: The construction sector in Malaysia has showcased a commendable surge in productivity performance, marking a significant milestone in the industry’s growth and development. The latest data analysis and reports have revealed encouraging trends, showcasing the sector’s resilience and adaptability to evolving challenges. For 2022, the construction sectors showed improvement on labour productivity which increased by 5.2% with a value of RM38,575 per person compared to year 2021 where the performance decreased by -4.3% with value of RM36,669 per person. The Malaysia Productivity Corporation (MPC), through its Construction and Built Environment Productivity Nexus, would like to extend an invitation to all contractors, particularly those of a medium to small size, to participate in the Productivity StepUp Programme. The programme conducted in order to guarantee that the productivity performance would continue to improve over time. The contractor will be trained in the adoption of fundamental technologies such as the Internet of Things, basic management software, and many more. When it comes to the mechanical side of things, things are still predicated on efficiency in this industry. It is high time for the medium to small sized players in the construction sector to immediately accept, adapt, and implement new technologies to keep up with the other key players in the region and maintain their competitive edge. We can see that the spread of digital transformation and its widespread acceptance have enhanced the productivity of players in various industries. It is imperative that the construction industry be involved, as MPC deputy director-general Zahid Ismail emphasised. The adoption of technology will make the construction industry leapfrog to a different level. According to him, “It is important for construction industry players to stay current with the technology trends, especially in fulfilling clients’ expectations of the day”. SP Setia unveils Laelia terraced homes in Klang KLANG: Setia Bayuemas, a vibrant township development by SP Setia, has introduced its latest residential project, Laelia double-storey terraced homes. The launch took place on July 30. Situated on a sprawling 7.3-acre land, Laelia comprises 98 freehold units of terraced homes including a loft-style home (44 units) and a conventional double-storey terrace (54 units). The project carries a gross development value of RM71.75 million. Razly Mohammad Rus, divisional general manager of SP Setia, said, “Laelia is an ideal modular starter home for firsttime homebuyers and young families seeking an affordable landed property in the prime location of southern Klang. In addition to the conventional doublestorey terrace, we are excited to offer the loft-style terraced home, which combines flexible space and modern apartment-style living in a well-planned township.” Priced between RM600,000 and RM1.2 million, Laelia showcases a diverse range of unit sizes. The loft-style terrace offers a built-up area between 1,568 sq ft and 1,604 sq ft, while the double-storey terrace ranges from 1,865 sq ft to 1,960 sq ft. Each unit features 3 or 4 bedrooms and bathrooms, with the loft type boasting a spacious double-volume living room. With its flexible floor plan, Laelia allows homeowners to customise and extend their living space on the ground floor to suit their changing needs and lifestyle. Residents of Laelia will have the privilege to enjoy a nature-filled environment, complete with pocket parks and a serene lake nearby. Laelia in Setia Bayuemas will also include Setia i-Home features, making it a sustainable and future-ready residence. The units are equipped with solar photovoltaic conduit and electric vehicle ports, as well as a green switch for convenient control of electrical appliances. Additionally, the development includes the innovative Box 366 food and parcel delivery dropbox, designed by SP Setia. Setia Bayuemas, spanning across 545 acres of freehold land, is a comprehensive township situated in the heart of southern Klang, Selangor. The master plan comprises affordable apartments, landed terraces, cluster homes, semi-D, and bungalows. Strategically positioned with easy access to three major highways, including the North-South Expressway and the Shah Alam Expressway, Setia Bayuemas offers excellent connectivity to the rest of the Klang Valley.

KLCI 1,444.56 STI 3,325.02 HANG SENG 19,517.38 SCI 3,261.69 NIKKEI 32,707.69 768.89 TSEC 16,893.73 KOSPI 2,616.47 S&P/ASX200 7,354.60 THURSDAY AUGUST 3, 2023 Editorial Tel: 03-7784 6688 Fax: 03-7785 2624/5 Email: [email protected] Advertising Tel: 03-7784 8888 Fax: 03-7784 4424 Email: [email protected] 5 MOST ACTIVES August 2, 2023 STOCK VOL CLSG (sen) +/– (sen) UEMS 117,811,000 50.5 +4.5 KNM 96,562,500 9.0 -0.5 HSI-CO3 77,480,700 17.0 -8.5 WIDAD 68,046,200 43.0 +0.5 VELESTO 65,764,000 23.5 +0.5 EXCHANGERATES AUGUST 2, 2023 Foreign currency Bank sell Bank buy Bank buy TT/OD TT OD 1 US DOLLAR 4.6030 4.4700 4.4310 1 AUSTRALIAN DOLLAR 3.0530 2.9330 2.9280 1 BRUNEI DOLLAR 3.4370 3.3390 3.3320 1 CANADIAN DOLLAR 3.4560 3.3640 3.3600 1 EURO 5.0580 4.8960 4.8550 1 NEW ZEALAND DOLLAR 2.8270 2.7230 2.7330 1 SINGAPORE DOLLAR 3.4370 3.3390 3.3320 1 STERLING POUND 5.8850 5.7010 5.6810 1 SWISS FRANC 5.2440 5.1260 5.0980 100 UAE DIRHAM 126.5400 120.0200 119.3100 100 BANGLADESH TAKA 4.3050 4.0400 3.8230 100 CHINESE RENMINBI 64.0000 61.6000 N/A 100 HONGKONG DOLLAR 59.5700 56.6200 56.1600 100 INDIAN RUPEE 5.6700 5.3200 5.1100 100 INDONESIAN RUPIAH 0.0314 0.0285 0.0234 100 JAPANESE YEN 3.2160 3.1150 3.1070 100 NEW TAIWAN DOLLAR 15.6000 N/A N/A 100 PAKISTAN RUPEE 1.6300 1.5300 1.3200 100 PHILIPPINE PESO 8.4900 8.0000 7.7700 100 QATAR RIYAL 127.4800 121.0200 120.3900 100 SAUDI RIYAL 123.8200 117.5400 116.8800 100 THAI BAHT 13.9700 12.4000 11.9800 Source: Malayan Banking Berhad/Bernama KL MARKET SUMMARY August 2, 2023 INDICES CHANGE FBMEMAS 10,611.60 -46.90 FBMKLCI 1,444.56 -6.68 CONSUMER PRODUCTS 555.13 -3.45 INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTS 165.77 -1.80 CONSTRUCTION 168.89 +0.33 FINANCIAL SERVICES 16,123.30 -69.00 ENERGY 832.47 -0.64 TELECOMMUNICATIONS 581.94 -2.36 HEALTH CARE 1,742.04 -23.00 TRANSPORTATION 911.89 -6.32 PROPERTY 770.16 +0.74 PLANTATION 7,100.89 -43.60 FBMSHA 10,872.40 -50.30 FBMACE 5,288.89 -18.50 TECHNOLOGY 63.33 -0.40 TURNOVER VALUE 2.798 BIL RM1.884 BIL 5 TOP GAINERS August 2, 2023 STOCK VOL CLSG (RM) +/– RM HEXTECH 4,900 26.60 +0.28 APOLLO 300,900 4.51 +0.18 QUALITY 29,300 1.20 +0.17 PARAGON 78,200 2.89 +0.12 UEMS-C83 257,100 0.465 +0.14 5 TOP LOSERS August 2, 2023 STOCK VOL CLSG (RM) +/– RM NESTLE 57,200 132.00 -0.90 MPI 90,800 28.66 -0.34 HEIM 240,800 25.80 -0.30 CARLSBG 84,100 20.80 -0.20 AJI 22,600 16.30 -0.18 6.68 48.77 493.74 29.26 319.14 50.60 96.10 Residential real estate purchases contribute 2.7% to 2022 GDP: Juwai IQI PETALING JAYA: Malaysia’s residential real estate purchases contributed RM42.5 billion to the economy in 2022 – equivalent to about 2.7% of Malaysia’s 2022 gross domestic product of RM1.79 trillion, according to real estate technology group Juwai IQI. Juwai IQI co-founder and group CEO Kashif Ansari (pix) stated that homebuying stimulates the economy, implying that governmental policies supporting homebuyers have much bigger benefits for economic growth. “Real estate remains the best way for Malaysians to build wealth and obtain economic security, but it also is good for the economy. The money we spend on fees, duties and expenses when buying a home also stimulates consumption and production in everything from manufacturing to transport,” he said in a statement. He added that the RM42.5 billion of economic benefits is only part of the full impact of the entire housing sector, because it leaves out the tens of billions of ringgit that areas like materials production, property management, rental property, maintenance and renovation and other real estate activities add to the economy. It also leaves out the value of the real estate itself. “We also looked at the GDP impact on four states: Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Johor and Penang. In Selangor, the benefits of home purchases add up 3.1% of GDP, the largest of any state. The benefits of home purchases contributed the least to GDP in Kuala Lumpur, where they add up to 1.7% of GDP. In Johor and Penang, the GDP benefits are relatively high, at 2.9% and 3% respectively. “On average, each time you buy a home, you generate for the economy an average benefit of around RM175,000, but the amount varies by state,” he said. Juwai IQI used the statistical method developed by economists at the US’ National Association of Realtors (NAR) to estimate how much Malaysian homebuyers add to the economy. Kashif said according to the NAR’s model, four elements make up the total economic benefit of home purchases: income generated from real estate activities, related expenditures, housing purchase multiplier, and new home construction. Malaysia’s G7 Aerospace to collaborate with Turkish firms KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian company, G7 Aerospace Sdn Bhd, signed an Industrial Collaboration Programme (ICP) agreement with Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) on ANKA Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) at the recent 16th International Defence Industry Fair (IDEF’23) in Istanbul, Turkiye. TAI was represented by its CEO Prof Temel Kotil while G7 Aerospace was represented by its managing director Datuk Kamarulzaman Zainal. When met after the event, Kamarulzaman said the agreement will enable TAI to implement ICP projects following the government’s purchase of TAI’s ANKA UAS for the Royal Malaysian Air Force. “We are looking at up to US$5 million (RM23 million) worth of services that we (G7 Aerospace) are going to provide,” he said adding that this agreement is preamble to a contract to be signed between both companies in Kuala Lumpur end of this month. The ANKA medium-altitude, longendurance unmanned aerial vehicles supply contract was inked between Malaysia’s Defence Ministry and TAI during the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition 2023 in May. According to Kamarulzaman, 11 projects with a total ICP value equivalent to the supply contract value will be implemented by TAI and managed by G7 Aerospace, making it part of local content. Meanwhile, G7 Aerospace also signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with another major Turkish defence company Havelsan at IDEF’23 to collaborate on Avionics Depot Level Maintenance. Kamarulzaman said this cooperation is to jointly support legacy aircraft currently operated by the Malaysian Armed Forces. “Both companies will work in partnership on component level repair, modification and upgrade of aircraft avionics,” he said. Ranked as the world’s fourth largest global defence show, IDEF’23 was held from July 25 to 28, and displayed land vehicles, weapons, simulators, radars, sonars, naval platform solutions, aviation systems, missiles, logistic vehicles, supply equipment, and security systems. – Bernama Petronas among region’s top 10 cash holders KUALA LUMPUR: National oil company Petroliam Nasional Bhd (Petronas) is among the region’s top 10 cash holders, which collectively held US$532 billion (RM2.4 trillion) or 40% of the total Asian cash balance at end-2022. Petronas has been accorded A2 rating with a stable outlook, according to Moody’s Investors Service. Besides Petronas, the other nine companies comprised seven from China and one each from South Korea and Taiwan. “Three major Chinese national oil companies – China Petrochemical oMalaysia’s national oil and gas company rated A2 with stable outlook, says Moody’s Corporation (Sinopec Group, A1 stable), China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC, A1 stable), and China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC, A1 stable) – as well as Petronas (A2 stable), are the only four oil and gas (O&G)-based companies in the top 10 cash holders. “Together, they held 86% of the O&G sector’s cash balance at the end of 2022. These companies maintain high cash balances through the O&G price cycle which reflects their strong liquidity and prudent financial policies,” Moody’s said in a statement. The international credit rating company said a high cash balance provides a buffer against industry cyclicality and allows a company to act quickly on potential acquisition opportunities. Moody’s said the technology, media and telecommunications (TMT), O&G, and property sectors dominate the region’s cash pile. “TMT companies hold a quarter of the cash pile, helped by strong cash flow generation. O&G companies ranked second in cash holdings, supported by elevated energy prices. The property sector ranked third despite a contraction in cash holdings in 2022.” Overall, Moody’s said the cash holdings of rated non-financial companies in Asia (excluding Japan) will hold steady at around US$1.3 trillion in the next 12-18 months, as investment-grade companies, which account for most of the cash holdings, maintain their significant cash positions. Moody’s report examined the cash holdings of 214 non-financial companies in Asia (excluding Japan) as of June 30, 2023. It said cash continues to bear an important role in supporting a company’s liquidity and is vital for operational needs, corporate solvency and the ability to pay off short-term liabilities as they come due. Furthermore, ample cash allows a company to seize investment opportunities as they arise and acts as a buffer against unexpected expenses or downturns in a business. – Bernama Participation 26.9 42.4 30.7 100.0 Retail Institutions Foreign Bought RM m 514.1 818.3 552.3 1884.7 Sold RM m 499.1 782.1 603.5 1884.7 Net RM m 15.0 36.2 -51.2 0 % Preliminary stats (excluding trade amendments). For final data, please refer to www.bursamalaysia.com Source: Bursa Malaysia A Participating Organisation of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad A Trading Participant of Bursa Malaysia Derivatives Berhad S E C U R I T I E S S D N. B H D. 197201001092 (12738-U) 2/8/2023

12 theSUN ON THURSDAY | AUGUST 3, 2023 SUNBIZ SERC expects Malaysia’s GDP to grow by 4.5% this year KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s gross domestic product (GDP) is expected to grow by between 4% and 5% in the second half of 2023 (H2’23) and by 4.5% for the full year, said the SocioEconomic Research Centre (SERC). Executive director Lee Heng Guie said consumer demand would continue to be the key driver for the economy in the remaining months of this year, although the robust spending observed last year might not repeat. Nevertheless, he noted that the high base effects in H2’22 would challenge the GDP performance in H2’23, with inflation risks remaining on the card and amid slower export growth due to a slowdown in global growth. “Our tracking of high-frequency data has shown that the Malaysian economy has moderated in recent months, especially demand for our exports, while consumer spending has normalised. “We are lucky that we still have a stable labour market condition, (in which) the unemployment rate is at about 3.5%, (and) that helps to support and make sure consumer spending will not fall sharply but just grow at a slower pace,” he told a press briefing on Malaysia’s Quarterly Economy Tracker yesterday. Lee expected consumer spending to grow between 4.5% and 5% in the near-term while inflation averages below 3%, most likely at 2.8%. He said subsidy rationalisation would likely take place after the six state elections are over, especially to address the oil price, which is currently trading at US$82 per barrel, slightly above the US$80 per barrel benchmark price set by the government in allocating subsidy under the Budget 2023. He also opined that Bank Negara Malaysia would likely pause the overnight policy rate (OPR) at 3% until year-end and maintain the current stance that is accommodative and supportive of economic growth. “Any changes to the OPR will depend on how resilient the economy and consumer inflation behaves. “I think the current level is just right (as) it will not significantly hurt the people. It is still supporting the economy but does not overburden on the business and the people,” he said, citing that the central bank would not cut the rate unless the country is in a big slowdown or perhaps on a sharp pullback in the demand side. Lee stressed that the OPR should be net positive to the country – a situation when the OPR is above the inflation rate. “If you are in a net negative for too long, then people will keep on spending and borrow for unproductive (activity), then imbalances (in the economy) will happen,” he said. – Bernama Datasonic sees FY24 as challenging amid macroeconomic issues PETALING JAYA: Datasonic Group Bhd, Malaysia security-related integrated ICT solutions providers, anticipates FY24 to be challenging due to elevated market ambiguities arising from ongoing macroeconomic issues. Speaking after its annual general meeting yesterday, Datasonic executive deputy chairman Datuk Abu Hanifah Noordin said that despite the anticipated challenges they are resolute in pursuing their strategic plans with prudent management. He added that the group has identified promising areas of growth that it can capitalise on to further expand its business. Specifically, he stated that the demand for passports is expected to remain on an upward trend. “On that note, we will gradually ramp up the production of our manufacturing of polycarbonate data page and grow the number of Malaysian passports that are 100% made in Malaysia. Separately, the group said it is commencing the deployment of foreign worker card (i-Kad) by this month and its immediate aim is to meet all the backlog and new iKad issuance in a timely manner. “On balance, the prospects of Datasonic continue to be bright premised upon our strategic plans and healthy order book of RM339 million (as of end-March 2023) and we look forward to a new chapter of growth for the group,” he added. Meanwhile, he said that FY23 was a remarkable year for them as it capitalised on the business rebound following the pandemic’s impact. “This led to the delivery of our best-ever topline performance and second highest-ever bottom-line results at RM344.7 million and RM76.4 million respectively,” he said. Beyond the financial accomplishments, he said that what truly mattered was Datasonic’s ability to meet the pent-up demand and ensure seamless and timely delivery of passports and MyKad. “This achievement not only solidified our established track record but also reinforced our unwavering commitment and contribution to national security,” said Abu Hanifah. IILM reissues US$1.15b sukuk in three series KUALA LUMPUR: The International Islamic Liquidity Management Corporation (IILM) has reissued US$1.15 billion (RM5.2 billion) shortterm sukuk in three different series. They were priced at 5.35% for US$300 million for one-month tenor, US$450 million for three months at 5.63% and US$400 million at 5.72% for six months, a statement said. IILM CEO Dr Umar Oseni said Tuesday’s auction saw the six-month tenor series fully covered within the first five minutes, reflecting investors healthy appetite. The auction was also meaningful because today is the 10th anniversary since the IILM issued its inaugural short-term sukuk in August 2013. The issuance forms part of the IILM’s “A-1” (S&P) and “F1” (Fitch Ratings) rated US$4 billion short-term sukuk issuance programme. IILM has achieved year-to-date cumulative issuances totaling US$7.49 billion through 24 sukuk series. – Bernama Axis-REIT’s Bukit Raja warehouse completed, receives cert PETALING JAYA: Axis Real Estate Investment Trust (Axis-REIT) announced that the development of its Bukit Raja Distribution Centre 2 (BRDC 2), a warehouse facility, located at Bukit Raja Selatan Industrial Area, Shah Alam has been completed upon obtaining the Certificate of Completion and Compliance (CCC) on Aug 1. With the CCC in hand, Axis-REIT will be able to hand over BRDC 2 to e-commerce operator SPX Xpress (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd ahead of the targeted handover date of Aug 31. The property has been fully leased by the latter for a period of 15 years while rental shall commence from Aug 1. Axis REIT Managers Bhd CEO/executive director Leong Kit May says, “We are certainly pleased that the development of BRDC 2 has officially been completed. Coupled with the new tenancy at Shah Alam DC 3 by Aug 2023, BRDC 2’s completion will enhance the portfolio occupancy rate to 92% where the higher rate will undoubtedly contribute positively to AxisREIT’s income in the coming quarters.” Soft Space, JCBI, HLB to promote JCB card in M’sia KUALA LUMPUR: Leading fintech-as-aservice provider Soft Space Sdn Bhd, JCB International Co Ltd (JCBI), the international operations subsidiary of JCB Co Ltd Japan’s leading international payment brand, and Hong Leong Bank (HLB) have joined forces to actively drive JCB Card acceptance in Malaysia, bolstered by strong post pandemic economy recovery prospects. As the Malaysian economy continues to grow positively in 2023, tourism has emerged as one of the brightest sectors spearheading the recovery process, with Japan listed as one of the top 10 contributors to tourist arrivals and spending in Malaysia. Malaysia targets to welcome 16.1 million international tourist arrivals and generate RM49.2 billion (US$10.89 billion) in tourist receipts in 2023. To capitalise on this bright recovery prospect, Soft Space and JCBI recently signed an agreement to enable Soft Space to work with local acquirers such as HLB to promote JCB Card acceptance in Malaysia. Sofitel Kuala Lumpur Damansara, is one of HLB’s merchants that has begun accepting JCB Card payments. “As Japanese tourist arrivals in Malaysia begin to ramp up again, we are pleased to be able to enable and promote cross-border payments between Japan and Malaysia via our partners,” said Soft Space CEO Joel Tay, adding that this merely represents a first step in their ambition to roll out similar agreements in Southeast Asia, boosting JCB Card acceptance and riding on the wave of increasing contactless card payments in the region.” JCBI president and CEO Yoshiki Kaneko said they decided to expand the collaboration with another global leader who shares similar values in enhancing user experience through state-of-the-art technological application. “Malaysia has been an important destination country for our card members across the regions. Establishing a partnership with HLB is a huge step forward for the expansion of JCB acceptance From left: Jong, Tay and Kaneko. oJapan listed as one of top 10 contributors to tourist arrivals and spending network in Malaysia. We can now better serve JCB Card members coming to Malaysia not only from Japan, but also from the Asean region where we have more than 10 million card members. “I am especially delighted as this achievement has been brought via a unique tripartite collaboration including Soft Space. Leveraging on today’s success, we are further strengthening our presence in the entire Asean region through this partnership with Soft Space,” he added. According to HLB personal finance services managing director Andrew Jong, this partnership with JCB and Soft Space signifies the bank’s commitment to providing financial products and services that are centred around the needs of both its merchants and their customers. “With an influx of tourists and expats coming from Japan into Malaysia, the option to accept JCB Cards will ensure convenience for its cardholders and provide businesses with an additional opportunity to capture more tourists and grow their business. This partnership will enable us to serve the customers who are increasingly going cashless as well as help merchants increase their sales and customer transaction value.”

13 SUNBIZ theSUN ON THURSDAY | AUGUST 3, 2023 Corporate earnings expected to rebound further in H2 KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s corporate earnings are set to continue recovering and registering further growth in the second half of 2023 (H2’23), backed by positive economic print projected for the period. At the same time, Malaysia’s economy is set to retain its growth trajectory for the rest of the year with continuous support from strong households and intact fundamentals, despite various external variables influencing growth in H1’23. Rakuten Trade Sdn Bhd equity research vice-president Thong Pak Leng said earnings growth for H1’23 is estimated at 6-7%, while H2’23 may see an 11-12% growth track. “Last year, earnings declined 10% and this year we expect it to grow within 9.3-9.5%. “More companies are likely to write back provisions in H2’23, and fundamentally, things are getting better with more active economic activities happening in the country,” he told Bernama. Nevertheless, Thong said that growth will vary according to sectors. “We saw a decent growth in oPositive economic fundamentals to underpin growth but it will differ from sector to sector, says expert H1’23 and blue chips were doing well during the period. “A few sectors will do well in H2’23, namely oil and gas, construction, plantation, bank, and real estate investment trust (REIT),” he added. Meanwhile, in its review of the first quarter of 2023 (Q1’23), MIDF Research noted that there was a divergence in net change to forward earnings between heavyweights and smaller-cap stocks. “The divergence in the net change to aggregate forward earnings favouring non-heavyweight stocks was also duly reflected in their relative price performance thus far this year,” it said. As of end-May 2023, the year-todate (YTD) price return of FBM KLCI stood at -7.2%. In contrast, the midcap FBM70 index registered a YTD return of +4.9%. In Q1’23, the aggregate reported earnings of FBM KLCI 30 current constituents came in at RM15.8 billion, declining sequentially at - 34.7% quarter-on-quarter, but improved against Q1’22 at +3.0% year-on-year. MIDF Research said the heavyweights were bogged down mainly by the price underperformance of financial services counters, which was impacted by banking turmoil in the United States and Europe as well as commodity-related industrial products and services and plantation stocks amid lower commodity product prices. “Nonetheless, going forward, we do not expect the underperformance of these heavyweight stocks to persist as, firstly, the banking turmoil in the US and Europe is arguably a consequence of the rapid rise in interest rates during the past year. “Secondly, we reckon the softening commodity price trend is presaging a slowdown in economic activities, which is also arguably a consequence of the rapid rise in interest rates during the past year. “Likewise, we can expect to see some improvement in both the valuation and earnings expectation of commodity-related stocks postUS Federal Reserve pause (in rate hikes),” it said. On the same note, the research house said it has revised the aggregate FY 2023 earnings forecast of the FBM KLCI constituents under its coverage down by RM4.6 billion (6.7%) to RM64.7 billion. In contrast, the aggregate FY 2023 earnings forecast of non-FBM KLCI constituents under its coverage was revised higher by +3.0% to RM17.8 billion. In Q1’23, 10% of stocks under MIDF Research’s coverage reported higher-than-expected earnings, a decline compared with 33% in Q4’22. The percentage of companies with results that met expectations increased to 54% in Q1’23 from 35% in Q4’22. Meanwhile, the percentage of negative surprises increased to 36% in Q1’23 from 32% in the fourth quater of 2022. PKNS-Agrobank deal on RM25m entrepreneur financing SHAH ALAM: The Selangor State Development Corporation (PKNS) yesterday signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Agrobank in the agency’s efforts to provide a variety of financing offers to entrepreneurs under the PKNS BizClub programme. The MoU involving an offer of RM25 million in entrepreneur financing over a two-year period was signed by PKNS CEO Datuk Mahmud Abbas while Agrobank was represented by its president and CEO Datuk Tengku Ahmad Badli Shah Raja Hussin at PKNS headquarters here. Mahmud said about 50 companies will receive benefits with a maximum allocation of RM500,000 per financing. “However, we expect more companies to receive the benefits because the amount of funding depends on the type and size of the business being undertaken,” he said at a press conference. Mahmud said the cooperation that will be handled by the PKNS Entrepreneur Development Division (BPU) will benefit around 8,000 entrepreneurs and individuals who are under the agency’s umbrella, in addition to helping them open business networks. “Today’s MoU is another PKNS Mahmud (seated, centre) and Agrobank and PKNS officials and entrepreneurs at the signing event. –BERNAMAPIC effort in helping entrepreneurs under the supervision of BPU to obtain additional capital opportunities from the financing offered by Agrobank to increase productivity and output, thus doubling the company’s profits. “In addition to the housing and industrial development sectors, PKNS always strives to meet the needs of the people, therefore PKNS through BPU always diversifies entrepreneurship programmes to help these traders start businesses and then expand their businesses to a higher level.” Mahmud said BPU is also looking for opportunities to explore foreign markets and bring selected entrepreneurs and their products to the international level, such as Indonesia and Hong Kong. He said individuals and entrepreneurs who are under the PKNS umbrella and are interested in knowing more about the funding can start enquiring today. Meanwhile, Tengku Ahmad said the strategic collaboration initiative is expected to benefit entrepreneurs, especially in Selangor to obtain capital to build their businesses. “We are confident that with the variety of financing products at Agrobank, it can provide financial solutions to target groups to venture into the agricultural sector and the entire food supply chain,” he said. – Bernama Etiqa introduces Tesla Ensure protection package PETALING JAYA: Etiqa is offering an insurance and takaful motor coverage plan, the Tesla Ensure package, to new Tesla owners in Malaysia. The package includes a first-inMalaysia insurance and takaful coverage for electric vehicle (EV) portable charging cable coverage -the expanded coverage is in line with the government’s target of growing the EV market to 38% of total vehicles sold by 2040. Etiqa Insurance and Takaful group CEO Kamaludin Ahmad reiterated the company’s commitment to sustainability in introducing the package. “Etiqa aims to alleviate concerns among Tesla vehicle owners on all their protection needs. With this initiative which provides a holistic coverage that includes protection to the driver and vehicle, Tesla owners will have peace of mind in driving their brand new Teslas,” he said in a statement. He added that the company strives to promote personal and corporate sustainability through solutions. TDM’s Kuala Terengganu medical centre posts strong FY22 results KUALA TERENGGANU: KMI Kuala Terengganu Medical Centre (KMIKT) a subsidiary of the healthcare division of TDM Bhd under the management of Kumpulan Medic Iman Sdn Bhd (KMI), ended financial year 2022 (FY22) with record high income since operating at new premises in Batu Burok. KMIKT recorded the first and highest profit since operating at the new premises. This is the highest since the company was established 17 years ago. Previously, profit was only recorded in 2013 when it was at the old premises. KMIKT chairman Mazli Zakuan Mohd Noor said: “In its efforts to improve the company’s performance, KMIKT will focus on improving its services and sub-specialties by offering a variety of health services that meet customer demand. In addition, focus is also given to increasing market penetration to new and existing market segments in the East Coast.” Since the establishment of the Cardiology Service and Catheterization Laboratory in 2020, a total of 3,027 heart patients have been successfully treated as of June 2023. This number is expected to continue to increase based on the encouraging demand from the East Coast community. KMIKT is the only private hospital that offers cardiac services in the State of Terengganu. “MIKT remains committed to ensuring that more comprehensive services can be provided to the local community in particular. A dialysis centre will be opened in KMIKT next year. With the existence of this dialysis centre, KMIKT is confident that it can meet the needs of patients who need kidney treatment. “This effort is in line with the company’s vision to place various health services under one roof,” said Salina Long, general manager of KMIKT. Also in the plans for next year are new services such as oncology and neurology. KMIKT is also ready to invest in modern and up-to-date technology to ensure that the level of service provided is of high quality and evolves with the times. MYStartup, TIA join forces to launch MYStartup Bootcamp PETALING JAYA: MYStartup, a startup ecosystem developer, and Tech in Asia (TIA), Asia’s leading online platform for Asia’s tech and startup community, has joined forces to launch the MYStartup Bootcamp, a nine-week programme that aims to empower and equip first-time founders with the tools and knowledge needed to launch and scale their startups. The MYStartup Bootcamp is an initiative that provides aspiring firsttime founders with a dynamic and immersive experience, supporting them in turning their vision into reality. Over the course of nine weeks, participants will be exposed to a curriculum that covers the fundamental aspects of starting a startup. Through hands-on learning experiences, personalised office hours, and invaluable networking opportunities, attendees will be equipped with the essential tools and knowledge to embark on their entrepreneurial journey with confidence as they bring their innovative ideas to life. “We are thrilled to partner with Tech in Asia to launch the MYStartup Bootcamp. This programme reflects our commitment to fostering innovation and nurturing a thriving startup ecosystem, and are pivotal to driving socio-economic growth in Malaysia,” said Ahmad Kashfi Alwi, senior vice president of ecosystem development, Cradle.

14 theSUN ON THURSDAY | AUGUST 3, 2023 SUNBIZ /thesuntelegram FOLLOW ON TELEGRAM SCAN ME India’s July edible oil imports at record high MUMBAI: India’s edible oil imports in July rose to a record 1.76 million metric tonnes as refiners built up stocks for upcoming festivals given uncertainty over supplies from the Black Sea, five dealers told Reuters. Higher purchases by the world’s biggest importer of vegetable oils could help to lower palm oil stocks in Indonesia and Malaysia and support benchmark futures. They would also strengthen soyoil futures and could reduce inventories in sunflower oilproducing Black Sea countries. India’s average monthly edible oil imports in the 2021/22 marketing year were 1.17 million tonnes, trade body Solvent Extractors’ Association of India (SEA) said. In June, India imported 1.3 million tonnes of edible oils. Palm oil imports increased from 683,133 tonnes in June to 1.09 million tonnes in July, the highest in seven months, according to average estimates from the dealers. Palm oil’s discount over soyoil and sunoil widened and prompted refiners to increase purchases for the upcoming festivals, Sandeep Bajoria, CEO of Sunvin Group, a vegetable oil brokerage and consultancy firm, said. SEA is likely to publish its July vegetable oil import data by mid-August. Because of the Russia-Ukraine crisis, importers are maintaining substantial oil reserves to ensure they are well-stocked and avoid any potential shortages, said Rajesh Patel, managing partner at GGN Research, an edible oil trader and broker. Sunflower oil imports leapt by 73% from a month earlier to 330,000 tonnes, the highest in six months, while soyoil imports fell 22% to 340,000 tonnes, dealers estimated. Soyoil imports were lower than expected in July, as a delay in berthing meant some vessels could not be unloaded at Kandla port, Patel said. India buys palm oil mainly from Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand, while it imports soyoil and sunflower oil from Argentina, Brazil, Russia and Ukraine. – Reuters B R I E F SFOXCONN TO INVEST US$600M IN INDIA’S KARNATAKA STATE BENGALURU: Taiwan’s Foxconn will invest US$600 million (RM2.7 billion) in two manufacturing projects in southern Indian state of Karnataka, including one which will be a partnership with USbased Applied Materials, a state government statement said. Foxconn will invest US$350 million to set up a unit to make components for smartphones, including for iPhone. The world’s largest contract manufacturer will also invest US$250 million in a second plant where it aims to produce chipmaking tools in partnership with Applied Materials. – Reuters BEIJING UNVEILS TAX RELIEF MEASURES TO HELP SMALL FIRMS BEIJING: China’s finance ministry yesterday unveiled a package of tax relief measures to support small businesses and rural households. Among the measures, the ministry will extend a value-added tax (VAT) cut for small taxpayers for an additional four years until end-2027. It will exempt value-added tax for small taxpayers with less than 100,000 yuan (RM63,210) in monthly sales and cut the rate on taxable sales revenues to 1% for those normally eligible for a 3% rate said. Interest income deriving from financial institutions’ micro-lending to small and micro-sized firms and individual businesses will also be exempted from VAT until end of 2027. – Reuters Global companies warn of slowing earnings in China NEW YORK/LONDON/BEIJING: From consumer goods giant Unilever to automaker Nissan and machinery maker Caterpillar, global firms have warned of slowing earnings in China as the world’s second-largest economy loses its post-pandemic bounce. A continued rebound has been limited to a handful of sectors such as dining and luxury goods, driving double-digit China sales growth for the likes of Starbucks and LVMH . But even those bellwethers have stopped short of raising their China outlook, wary of lacklustre economic data, while consumer goods firms such as Procter & Gamble, L’Oreal and Coca-Cola have taken a cautious stance. “What we’re seeing is a very cautious consumer in China, a declining property market and reduced export demand,” Unilever finance chief Graeme Pitkethly told an April-June earnings call last week. “And there is high unemployment in China, particularly youth unemployment ... as much as we can oDiverse range of businesses brace for impact as post-Covid pandemic bounce fades tell we’re at the historical low point in Chinese consumer confidence.” Global automakers are also having to contend with increased competition from domestic rivals, which for the first time took a more than 50% share of the market in the first half of 2023. Volkswagen cut its full-year sales target last week due to a sales dip in China, its top market. “Unfortunately, our (China) sales outlook is now falling far below our production capacity,” Nissan CEO Makoto Uchida said last week. Earnings recovery in the world’s biggest auto market will likely take time, he said. In technology, chipmakers such as Samsung and SK Hynix said China’s reopening after lengthy virus-busting lockdown measures Bank of Thailand lifts key rate again on inflation risks BANGKOK: Thailand’s central bank raised its key interest rate for a seventh straight meeting on Wednesday as inflationary risks linger and the economy continues to grow despite rising global risks and post-election political uncertainty at home. The Bank of Thailand’s (BOT) monetary policy committee voted unanimously to raise the one-day repurchase rate by 25 basis points (bps) to 2.25%, as expected by 18 of 22 economists polled by Reuters. In a statement, the BOT said headline inflation is expected to stabilise within its target range, but core inflation is expected to level off at a higher level than in the past. “In the context of continuing economic expansion and narrowing slack, monetary policy should keep inflation sustainably within the target range and foster longer-term macro-financial stability by preempting the buildup of financial imbalances that could arise in a low-for-long interest rate environment,” it said. “A higher policy rate would also help preserve the policy space in light of the highly uncertain outlook,” it added. The BOT said the economy should continue to expand, driven mainly by tourism and private consumption, but said there were growing risks from weak exports and political uncertainties. With yesterday’s move, the BOT has raised the key rate by a 175 basis points since last August from a record low of 0.50%. Among economists who had a longer-term view in the Reuters poll, 13 of 17 respondents expected the BOT to maintain the rate at 2.25% until at least mid-2024. Only two economists forecast a cut by then, while two said it would peak at 2.50%. Investors are awaiting the formation of a new government after prime ministerial candidate Pita Limjaroenrat, whose Move Forward party secured a stunning election win in May, failed in his bid for prime minister. Southeast Asia’s second-largest economy remains on a recovery path, driven by a post-pandemic rebound in tourism, though exports have been sluggish as global demand slows. In May, the central bank forecast economic growth of 3.6% this year and 3.8% next year. Last year’s growth was 2.6%. Thailand’s annual headline inflation rate was 0.23% in June, below the BOT’s target range of 1% to 3%, but BOT governor Sethaput Suthiwartnarueput recently said it would return to within the target in the period ahead as the economy expanded. The core rate, at 1.32% in June, has been more persistently elevated due to demand pressures amid expanding economic activity and the passing-through of higher costs. – Reuters had failed to spark a revival in the smartphone market, and that they were extending production cuts of NAND memory chips used in handsets to store data. Top miners and heavy machinery makers have also taken a hit from a prolonged property sector slump. “We mentioned during our last earnings call that we expected sales in China to be below the typical 5% to 10% of our enterprise sales. We now expect further weakness as the 10-ton-andabove excavator industry has declined even more than we anticipated,” Caterpillar CEO Jim Umpleby told an earnings call on Tuesday. Still, Rio Tinto, the world’s biggest iron ore producer, is cautiously optimistic on China’s economy as the government has pledged more policies to boost growth. “Our experience with China is that if things are going less well, then the Chinese have a quite impressive ability to also manage the economy,” Rio Tinto CEO Jacob Stausholm said after reporting earnings last week. Eateries and luxury goods makers have been among few economic bright spots for consumers splurging following the lifting of Covid-19 restrictions on movement. Starbucks reported a 46% surge in comparable China sales last quarter – a rebound in line with its expectations and which is likely to last, company officials told investors in a call on Tuesday. LVMH, whose 75 brands include Louis Vuitton and US jeweller Tiffany, reported a better-thanexpected 17% rise in global secondquarter sales due to rebound in China, but refrained from giving an outlook for the rest of the year. – Reuters US Treasury calls shock Fitch credit rating cut ‘arbitrary’ NEW YORK: Rating agency Fitch on Tuesday downgraded the US government’s top credit rating, a move that drew an angry response from the White House and surprised investors, coming despite the resolution of the debt ceiling crisis two months ago. Fitch downgraded the United States to AA+ from AAA, citing fiscal deterioration over the next three years and repeated down-the-wire debt ceiling negotiations that threaten the government’s ability to pay its bills. With the downgrade, it becomes the second major rating agency after Standard & Poor’s to strip the United States of its triple-A rating. “In Fitch’s view, there has been a steady deterioration in standards of governance over the last 20 years, including on fiscal and debt matters, notwithstanding the June bipartisan agreement to suspend the debt limit until January 2025,” the rating agency said in a statement. US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen disagreed with Fitch’s downgrade, in a statement that called it “arbitrary and based on outdated data”. The White House had a similar view, saying it “strongly disagrees with this decision”. “It defies reality to downgrade the United States at a moment when President Biden has delivered the strongest recovery of any major economy in the world,” said White House press secretary Karine JeanPierre. – Reuters Caterpillar expects further weakness in its China sales as the 10-tonand-above excavator industry has declined even more than it anticipated. – REUTERSPIC

3 A U G U S T 2 0 2 3 T H U R S D A Y members, aged 35-45, found themselves deeply moved by the story as they saw reflections of their own lives in the mother-son Recently, theSun had the privilege of interviewing a promising local director, Yeap Swee Leong, known affectionately as Jacky, whose highly anticipated film Sometime, Sometime is set to be released soon in Malaysia. The film beautifully explores the complexities of human relationships, with a special focus on the profound bond between a mother and her son. In this feature, we delve into Jacky’s filmmaking journey, the inspiration behind his work, the challenges and triumphs that shaped the film’s artistic vision, and his future plans as a director. A filmmaking odyssey Jacky’s passion for filmmaking ignited during his secondary school years when he stumbled upon a Nokia handphone that allowed him to shoot videos and experiment with basic editing. The joy he derived from sharing his funny short films with friends laid the foundation for his future career. After completing Form six, Jacky found his true calling at the Universiti Malaysia Sarawak, where he majored in Cinematography, leading him to intern at Da Huang Pictures, an independent production house. This experience solidified his commitment to the world of film. Sometime, Sometime: A personal journey The heart of Sometime, Sometime lies in its poignant portrayal of the mother-son relationship. Surprisingly, Jacky’s inspiration for this deeply emotional story came from a void in his own life. Having lost his mother at a tender age, he never experienced the dynamics of a mother-son bond. The film became an outlet for him to address this void and explore what it might have been like to have a mother’s presence in his life. By taking on the role of the son and casting filmmaker Tan Chui Mui as the mother, Jacky created a deeply personal and authentic connection with the characters, enriching the film’s emotional depth. The message of resonance As Jacky submitted the film for censorship, he never imagined the powerful impact it would have on the committee members. Two female Heartfelt resonance Official poster for Sometime, Sometime. – PICS BY JACKY oJacky’s film captures the beauty of real life █ BYTHASHINE SELVAKUMARAN Swee Leong, better known as Jacky. relationship portrayed on screen. This profound experience taught Jacky that beyond seeking entertainment, audiences crave stories that resonate with their lives – films that sit beside them, understand them, and evoke genuine emotions. Sometime, Sometime achieves precisely that, providing a heartwarming and relatable experience for the audience. Navigating challenges and personal growth Jacky faced numerous challenges during the filmmaking process, as he not only directed but also acted and produced the film. The dynamic between him and the main actress posed one such obstacle. With both being strong-willed and having their own visions, disagreements emerged during the shoot. However, through compromise and finding common ground, they successfully collaborated to bring the film to completion. The visual and emotional aesthetic Sometime, Sometime masterfully captures the beauty in ordinary moments, blurring the lines between fiction and reality. By adopting a third-person point of view and using handheld camera work, Jacky brought an authentic and immersive feel to the film. The absence of music inside the film further contributed to this merge of fiction and reality, drawing the audience into the characters’ world. The future of filmmaking Looking ahead, Jacky plans to experiment with genre combinations, seeking to create unique cinematic experiences that blend different styles in innovative ways. His upcoming project, Homework, promises an intriguing journey into the life of an actor trapped as a fictional character. Words of wisdom To aspiring directors, Jacky offers a simple yet powerful piece of advice: Scene from the movie. Behindthescenes. Just do it. Embrace your passion, follow your instincts, and let your authentic voice shine through in your work. In conclusion, Sometime, Sometime stands as a testament to the power of authenticity and emotional resonance in storytelling. Jacky’s journey from a hobbyist filmmaker to a passionate director has culminated in a touching and empathetic film that promises to leave a lasting impact on audiences. As we eagerly await the release of Sometime, Sometime, we can rest assured that Jacky’s future works will continue to enrich the cinematic landscape with his unique and heartfelt vision. With his dedication to portraying genuine human experiences on screen, Jacky is undoubtedly one of Malaysia’s emerging directors to watch out for in the world of filmmaking. Sometime, Sometime will be released in six cinemas in Malaysia on Aug 24 this year.

16 ENTERTAINMENT theSun LYFE ON THURSDAY | AUGUST 3, 2023 /thesundaily FOLLOW ON FACEBOOK SCAN ME Kylie’s journey towards body positivity I N a captivating season finale of The Kardashians, viewers witness a different side of beauty mogul Kylie Jenner. Breaking away from her glamorous facade, Jenner opens up The entrepreneur delivers a powerful message about embracing natural beauty. – INSTAGRAM oReality TV star addresses cosmetic surgery issues █ BYTHASHINE SELVAKUMARAN about her past regrets and her evolving perspective on cosmetic surgery. The emotional and vulnerable conversation with her close friend, Stassie Karanikolaou, serves as a powerful message to her fans and young women everywhere. As a symbol of female empowerment, Jenner shares her candid thoughts on her past choices regarding cosmetic surgery. Revealing her genuine remorse for getting breast augmentation at a young age, Jenner advises others to think twice before undergoing such procedures, especially before having children. With the recent birth of her second child, Aire, Jenner’s reflections on motherhood and maturity have become more profound. Growing up in the limelight and having been part of reality shows since the tender age of nine, Jenner acknowledges the impact of fame on her self-image. Contrary to misconceptions, she emphasises that she was a confident child and that she has only had fillers, not extensive surgery, done on her face. Moreover, Jenner takes a stand against the culture of heavily edited and manipulated photos prevalent on social media. Admitting that she too went through that phase, she now recognises the responsibility she bears as a public figure with significant influence. She encourages young girls to embrace their uniqueness and refrain from altering their appearances to meet unrealistic standards. A climactic and emotional moment unfolds when Jenner expresses her fervent desire that her daughter, Stormi, never feels pressured to undergo cosmetic surgeries like she did. This revelation underscores Jenner’s growth and transformation, highlighting the importance of self-acceptance and body positivity. Throughout the season, plastic surgery has been a contentious topic, but Jenner’s openness about her journey towards self-love brings a fresh perspective to the conversation. Her evolution from past regrets to a place of empowerment sets an inspiring example for her fans and demonstrates the power of self-awareness and growth. Madonna’s touching tribute LAST month, Madonna found herself battling a serious bacterial infection that landed her in the hospital, but it was the outpouring of love and kindness from her cherished family and friends that became the true remedy for her soul. In a heartwarming and reflective Instagram post, the pop icon expressed her profound appreciation for the unwavering support she received during her recovery journey. The singer’s words echoed with sincerity as she acknowledged the immense value of love from family and friends as the most potent medicine. Having spent a month recuperating, Madonna took this opportunity to look back on the challenging time with newfound clarity and gratitude. As a devoted mother, Madonna has always been selflessly devoted to her children, catering to their every need. However, when her own health hung in the balance, she was touched by the unwavering devotion and care her kids provided. Witnessing a previously unseen side to her children, particularly her 17-year-old son David Banda and 26-year-old daughter Lourdes Leon, filled her heart with a sense of pride and assurance that their love had made all the difference in her recovery. In her heartfelt post, she immortalised the moment with a touching photo, capturing an embrace with David Banda and a snapshot with her daughter, Lourdes Leon. Gratitude extended beyond her children as she expressed heartfelt thanks to her circle of friends and everyone who stood by her side during the trying times. Their unwavering support bolstered her spirits and gave her the strength to fight off the bacterial infection that had left her bedridden. Days after her hospital stay, Madonna shared an Instagram video showcasing her dance moves while celebrating the 40th anniversary of her debut album, Madonna. The video served as a testament to her improving health and her triumphant spirit in the face of adversity. The singer inspires others to cherish the power of love and gratitude. – PEOPLE █ BYTHASHINE SELVAKUMARAN Cartoonito: Gateway to imagination STEP into a fantastical realm where laughter, learning, and limitless adventures await. Unveiling a delightful surprise for parents and their little ones, a captivating new TV channel, Cartoonito (Unifi TV Ch 555 HD), is set to enchant homes. In this magical universe, children will embark on extraordinary journeys alongside beloved characters from timeless franchises like Batwheels and Bugs Bunny Builders. But that’s not all. Brace yourselves for an enchanting blend of modern preschool marvels that nurture each child’s unique potential, guiding them to soar to the stars and beyond. While Cartoonito caters to slightly younger children than its predecessor Boomerang, it has artfully woven in some evergreen favourites like Tom & Jerry, Baby Looney Tunes, Alice & Lewis, Pat the Dog, and Grizzy and the Lemmings, ensuring that cherished memories remain intact. Adding to the exciting medley are new-found friends such as Dino Ranch, Mumfie, and Tangranimals. Beneath the surface of whimsy lies a Cartoonito is Warner Bros. Discovery Kids & Family preschool channel. – CARTOONITO █ BYTHASHINE SELVAKUMARAN Cardi strikes back IN yet another incident in the growing list of artists being pelted with objects while performing on stage, Cardi B was splashed by a concertgoer who hurled a drink at her as she was performing. She responded by throwing her microphone at the perpetrator. The incident, which occurred during an outdoor set at Drai’s The rapper fights back against unruly fan in Vegas. – ENTERTAINME NT TONIGHT █ BY MARK MATHEN VICTOR profound commitment to education, entwined in the very essence of Cartoonito. Embracing a revolutionary educational framework, aptly named “Humancentric Learning,” every show on this channel is a treasure trove of four pillars: Creativity, caring, curiosity, and courage. The beloved Boomerang channel emerges from its former chrysalis as Cartoonito, spreading its magical aura across every platform in Malaysia and Southeast Asia. Fear not, for the essence remains the same; it will still be available in English, Bahasa Malaysia, and Mandarin, bridging cultures with its irresistible charm. So gather around the screen and let the captivating Cartoonito weave its storytelling magic, kindling the flames of creativity, fostering compassion, nurturing curiosity, and emboldening little hearts with the courage to explore the world beyond the bounds of the imagination. Beachclub in Las Vegas, shows Cardi’s astonishment when the drink was thrown in her direction while she was performing Bodak Yellow. After she responded in kind, the security staff quickly swarmed the front-row attendee. A different video angle of the microphone throw was tweeted by Cardi later, which shows a clearer view of the fan attempting to empty their cup at Cardi, who reportedly continued her performance after the mic toss. During the night before at the same beach club, Cardi had reportedly thrown her microphone towards a DJ who was allegedly cutting off her songs early for another performer. Cardi’s on-stage response comes as multiple artists have been pelted with items during concerts this year. Earlier this month, Harry Styles crouched to the ground as he walked off stage after a fan pelted him in the eye with a flying object during his Love on Tour show in Vienna. That onstage incident followed those involving stars such as Bebe Rexha, Drake, Kelsea Ballerini, Steve Lacy, Kid Cudi, and Pink, who have all endured concertgoers throwing objects towards or at them midperformance.

17 ENTERTAINMENT theSun LYFE ON THURSDAY | AUGUST 3, 2023 Scrambler, which played a pivotal role in Ethan Hunt’s thrilling police pursuit through the vibrant streets of Paris. BMW’s undeniable presence in the franchise has significantly contributed to the creation of thrilling and unforgettable action sequences, becoming synonymous with the Mission: Impossible series. This has left a lasting impact on the audience and solidified BMW’s essential role in the franchise’s success. Amazing stunts all the way Unlike most actors who avoid stunts due to risks and specialised skills, Tom Cruise is a notable exception. Despite his top-tier actor status with films like Top Gun and Jack Reacher, Cruise insists on performing stunts himself. This commitment was even evident in Dead Reckoning Part One, where he pushed boundaries for authentic action. In the franchise’s seventh installment, Cruise amazed the world with a jaw-dropping motorcycle stunt that involved driving off a cliff, dismounting, and parachuting into a Norwegian valley. The behind-the-scenes footage earned the title “biggest stunt in cinema history.” Cruise’s dedication solidified his reputation as an unparalleled stunt performer in Hollywood. Similar to his previous performances, where he clung to the side doors of an Airbus A400M, scaled the Burj Khalifa, executed a HALO jump, engaged in deep dives, and embarked on thrilling helicopter chases, Cruise’s dedication to performing his own stunts sets the Mission: Impossible franchise apart as one of the finest action movie series to watch nowadays. What sets this installment apart is the intensified adrenaline and suspense of the stunts. Knowing that Cruise performed all these daring feats himself in each distinct movie adds a unique sense of nervous excitement while watching. His unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of action filmmaking has undoubtedly contributed to the franchise’s reputation as one of the best in the genre, leaving audiences awestruck and exhilarated by each new daring adventure. RENOWNED for its heartracing action, captivating plot twists, and the magnetic presence of acclaimed actor Tom Cruise, the Mission: Impossible franchise has successfully enthralled audiences for more than two decades. With every new release leading to a blockbuster hit, this movie series truly delivers a unique combination of espionage, perilous situations, and high-stakes missions, ensuring that moviegoers have a source of constant entertainment. In this article, we will explore the latest instalment with the Mission: Impossible franchise, Dead Reckoning Part One, and examine how it compares to the previous films in the saga. Different directors throughout the series After a nearly five-year gap since Mission: Impossible: Fallout, the latest instalment serves as the seventh entry in a franchise spanning over 27 years. The franchise is known for its unique practice of bringing in new directors for each film, resulting in diverse creative perspectives from the likes of John Woo, Brad Bird, and Brian De Palma. However, since Rogue Nation, Tom Cruise and Christopher McQuarrie have formed an ideal collaboration, making McQuarrie the first director to helm consecutive Mission: Impossible films. Their partnership has been instrumental in the franchise’s continued success, achieving remarkable acclaim and box office triumph with Fallout. It is worth mentioning that McQuarrie is currently at the helm of the next two films in the franchise, Mission: Impossible: Dead Reckoning, Part One and Part Two, slated for release next June. BMW drives thrilling action in the Mission: Impossible franchise For over a decade, BMW has been a valued partner of Paramount and the Mission: Impossible franchise, embarking on a journey that began with the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept in 2011’s Ghost Protocol and continues with the latest installment, Dead Reckoning: Part One. One standout moment in this latest film features a doorless BMW 5 Series LCI (BMW 540i), distinguishing itself from the M5 seen in Fallout, adding unexpected twists to the actionpacked scenes, and showcasing BMW’s vehicle versatility and innovation in the films. In Rogue Nation, the fifth instalment, the film delivered a remarkable bike chase scene, highlighting the powerful blackout BMW S1000RR superbike and demonstrating the B a v a r i a n m a n u f a c t u r e r ’ s exceptional usage of their vehicles, infusing the movie with adrenaline-filled moments. Other than that, the 2015 BMW M3 in Silverstone Metallic takes on a prominent role during a thrilling car chase in the streets of Rabat, Morocco. Several M3s were used for the scene, and McQuarrie praised their durability, stating that even after numerous stunts, the BMW M3s continued to run flawlessly, impressing the entire crew. Also, Fallout presented yet another impressive display of BMW’s vehicles, including the BMW R Nine T █ BY HAZIQUE ZAIRILL BMW teams up with Paramount Pictures. – BMW GROUP One of Cruise’s death-defying stunts. – PARAMOUNT PICTURES Scene from in Rogue Nation. – PARAMOUNT PICTURES Cruise’s character Ethan Hunt is capable of anything. – INSTAGRAM Exhilarating stunts in the latest instalment. – PARAMOUNT PICTURES oUncovering the distinctiveness of Dead Reckoning Part One Mission: Impossible’s thrilling evolution

18 LIFESTYLE theSun LYFE ON THURSDAY | AUGUST 3, 2023 ABSURDLY lengthy at just over two hours, Disney’s Haunted Mansion is the second adaptation of The Haunted Mansion ride at Disneyland; the first being the Eddie Murphy-led film in 2003. After moving into a decrepit mansion, Gabbie (Rosario Dawson) and her son Travis (Chase W. Dillon) quickly find out that there are spectres and apparitions roving the corridors of their new home. Astrophysicist-turned-paranormal tour guide Ben (LaKeith Stanfield), priest Kent (Owen Wilson), psychic Harriet (Tiffany Haddish), and college historian Bruce (Danny DeVito) are roped in to help the mother and son, only to be trapped in the house with them. Eventually, the terrified humans find out that even the ghosts are afraid, not of them but of something else: the Hatbox Ghost (Jared Leto). Think of the children Haunted Mansion, as a supernatural comedy, does not really find a proper balance between both sides of its identity, with its experience being more comedy than horror. The slippery slope becomes extra slippery the moment the Hatbox Ghost is fully introduced. From initial appearances as a black, almost demonic spectre, Hatbox quickly devolves into a man holding a CGI box with a shrivelled CGI head inside. In a more practical sense, Leto without the prosthetic CGI head would’ve been far m o r e effective in ramping up the horror slightly. After Hatbox’s reveal, the film becomes one long Disneyland ride with an endless barrage of jokes. In that sense, Haunted Mansion will probably cater best to families bringing their children out. The jokes are accessible enough for both adults and kids, and the film’s occasional horror will get the latter jumping in their seats. One for them, one for me Given the star-studded cast, especially Stanfield’s perpetual rise in popularity, their presence in this run-of-the-mill, based-on-aDisney-ride film screams the “One for them, one for me” Hollywood philosophy. First introduced by Martin Scorcese, it means that actors tend to do one studiomandated film (whether they like it or not), and in return, they will receive a chance to star in a bigger film they actually want to be in. The philosophy also seemingly extends to the film’s director and writer. Directed by Justin Simien and written by Katie Dippold, Haunted Mansion lacks Simien’s directorial flair that was seen in his satirical Dear White People film. Despite leveraging Stanfield’s acting chops for the film’s emotional moments involving his grieving character, Simien’s direction is seemingly absent for the rest of Haunted Mansion, as the film is almost entirely on autopilot, like a Disneyland ride. The film instead holds on to Dippold’s dialogue wit for dear life, as nothing else in the film comes close to being as entertaining as the banter between its colourful cast of characters. In closing, adapting theme park rides to the film medium may indeed be a more arduous task than it seems. oHaunted Mansion veers more towards comedy READ OUR HERE /thesundaily SCAN ME IMMERSE yourself in the enthralling world of Korean fantasy drama as Arthdal Chronicles: The Sword of Aramoon makes its triumphant return for Season Two this September on D i s n e y + H o t s t a r . Prepare for a captivating journey through the ancient land of Arth, where heroes carve their own legendary paths. Season Two picks up eight years after the dramatic events of the first season, delving deeper into the fateful tales of characters like King Tagon, portrayed by the talented Jang Donggun, and Eunseom, the leader of the Ago tribe, played by Lee Joongi. The gripping narrative unfolds as Tanya, the high priestess of Arthdal, portrayed by Shin Saekyeong, and the cunning politician and first queen of Arthdal, Taealha, played by Kim Okvin, further shape the destiny of this fantastical realm. Directed by Kim Kwangsik and written by Kim Younghyun and Park Sangyean, Season Two promises even more intrigue and excitement. As fans anticipate the new episodes released every Saturday and Sunday, they can already catch up on the thrilling Season One of Arthdal Chronicles: The Sword of Aramoon by signing up for Disney+Hotstar. Not only will viewers have access to this epic Korean series, but they can also enjoy other captivating shows like the award-winning Big Bet starring Choi Minsik and Big Mouth, a gripping legal drama. Don’t miss the chance to stream Season Two of Arthdal Chronicles: The Sword of Aramoon this September on Disney+Hotstar and immerse yourself in a world of unparalleled entertainment. – BY THASHINE SELVAKUMARAN Arthdal Chronicles returns this September on Disney+ Hotstar – DISNEY HOTSTAR Unveil legends anew Shin SaeKyeong Lee JoonGi The actors do most of the heavy lifting in the film. – PICS BY DISNEY Jamie Lee Curtis cameos as another psychic. The film takes a more comedic approach. Wilson as Priest Kent. █ BY MARK MATHEN VICTOR Spooks and jokes and jokes Banter between the characters provides lots of laughs.

19 LIFESTYLE theSun LYFE ON THURSDAY | AUGUST 3, 2023 graphics card. This combination delivers outstanding performance for everyday tasks, multitasking, and even demanding applications like video editing and gaming. The laptop handles resource-intensive software with ease, and the dedicated GPU ensures smooth graphics rendering for gaming enthusiasts. Musk draws heat over giant X logo A GIANT, glowing X marks the San Francisco spot where Elon Musk says he plans to keep his company, the messaging platform X, formerly known as Twitter. But city officials and some residents are unhappy with the display. Last week, the company erected an “X” logo on the roof of its Market Street headquarters, to the chagrin of neighbours who complained about intrusive lights and San Francisco’s Department of Building Inspection, which said it is investigating the structure. The move followed a post from Musk, the enigmatic billionaire who acquired the company in October for US$44 billion (RM199 billion), announcing the newly named firm would remain in San Francisco despite what he termed the city’s recent “doom spiral, with one company after another leaving or leaving.” Musk, who is also CEO of electric car maker Tesla, moved the company’s headquarters from California to Texas in 2021. Keeping X in San Francisco could be a good sign for a city that has struggled to bounce back from tourism and business losses sustained during the pandemic. Its downtown region is struggling with job cuts in the tech sector, the departure of major retailers, and reduced tourism. Traffic has fallen as more people work from home, while high-profile crime and homelessness have tarnished the city’s image. “Beautiful San Francisco, though others forsake you, we will always be your friends,“ Musk wrote. Yet not all San Franciscans are keen on Musk’s friendship. Locals over the weekend recorded videos of the giant X glowing, pulsing, and strobing, with some criticising its intrusive lights. X user @itsmefrenchy123 said they would be “LIVID” over the bright logo, imagining it “right across from your bedroom.” “I’m just astounded at the flagrant lack of consideration for anyone ever,“ wrote X user @DollyMarlowe. San Francisco’s Department of Building Inspection, meanwhile, opened an investigation into the Former Twitter building in San Francisco now sporting a large metal “X”. – AFP structure, saying it might be in violation of permitting rules. A BID inspector said in a written report that company representatives denied roof access twice to BID officials seeking to inspect the logo. The inspector noted that one representative said the sign was temporary. A BID spokesperson could not be immediately reached on Sunday. – Reuters Redefining versatility in the digital realm LENOVO has long been known for its commitment to producing high-quality laptops, and the Lenovo LOQ 15IRH8 is no exception. With its powerful performance, sleek design, and versatile features, this laptop aims to cater to the needs of both casual users and professionals alike. In this review, I will delve into the key aspects of this specific laptop, exploring its hardware, display, battery life, and overall user experience. Design and Build It boasts a modern design that not only gives it a premium look but also enhances its durability. The laptop’s profile and design make you feel a slight weight when you carry it around, but considering its features, it’s worth the extra workout. Display The 15.6-inch Full HD display on the Lenovo LOQ 15IRH8 delivers crisp and vibrant visuals, making it suitable for a wide range of tasks, from content creation to multimedia consumption. The colour accuracy and brightness levels are impressive, providing an enjoyable viewing experience for streaming movies, editing, photos, or working on creative projects. Performance Under the hood, it is powered by an Intel Core i7 processor paired with 16GB of RAM and an N V I D I A GeForce RTX The front of the laptop. – PICS BY LENOVO oA Lenovo LOQ 15IRH8 laptop review █ BYYASMIN ZULRAEZ Sleek back design. Storage and Connectivity The laptop offers a spacious 512GB SSD, which not only ensures fast boot times and application loading but also provides ample space for storing files, documents, and media. For connectivity, the Lenovo LOQ 15IRH8 comes equipped with an array of ports, including USB 3.2 Gen 1, USB 3.2 Gen 2, USB-C 3.2 Gen 2, HDMI, and a power connector, allowing users to connect a variety of peripherals without any hassle. Keyboard and Trackpad Lenovo has always been praised for its excellent keyboards, and this continues the tradition with a comfortable and responsive backlit keyboard. The keys offer good travel and tactile feedback, making typing a breeze even during extended work sessions. The trackpad is also smooth and precise, providing accurate navigation without any lag. Battery Life The Lenovo LOQ 15IRH8 houses a decent-sized battery that can easily last for a full workday with moderate usage. With casual web browsing, document editing, and video streaming, users can expect around seven to eight hours of battery life. However, engaging in resourceintensive tasks or gaming will naturally reduce this figure. Audio The laptop’s audio quality is satisfactory for a device of its size, producing clear sound with decent bass. While it may not replace dedicated external speakers, it is more than sufficient for everyday media consumption and video calls. Software and OS The Lenovo LOQ 15IRH8 also comes with Windows 11 pre-installed, providing a familiar and user-friendly interface. Lenovo’s software additions are minimal, with helpful utilities for system optimisation and driver updates. In conclusion, the Lenovo LOQ 15IRH8 is a commendable laptop that strikes an excellent balance between performance, design, and functionality. Its powerful hardware ensures smooth multitasking and capable gaming performance. For more information, please visit lenovo.com/my/en/

20 FASHION & BEAUTY theSun LYFE ON THURSDAY | AUGUST 3, 2023 NEARLY all the workers lost their houses; the accountant and vet disappeared along with their families, but after the deadly earthquake that devastated Turkey’s Hatay province, “the silk of peace” is helping make new connections. “I had to convince myself to start up again,“ admits Emel Duman, rolling between her fingers a small and incredibly fine ball of fibres. The yellow cocoons, with which she spins and weaves natural silk, have been her life’s project. Emel’s home was destroyed in the February disaster, and she lives with her family in a silk cooperative workshop on the heights overlooking Antakya. Following the quake, about 100 people who had lost everything crammed into the building for shelter. They had survived, but at least 50,000 people died in southern Turkey. “Apart from the workshop, everything collapsed. It’s difficult to start over,” says the 57- year-old. Seventy people had been employed by the Appollon cooperative, mostly women, often working from home. Only a handful have come back, including the designer, who had already moved in to live. When Emel first started the business 25 years ago, Hatay, on one of the silk routes of antiquity, had lost its refined production skills. Weaving continued, but with white cocoons imported from China. Yellow cocoon Hatay’s special cocoon is yellowish, and Emel obsessively tracked down the last place breeding the Bombyx mori domestic silk moth around the city of Antakya. Her husband, Fikret, says she talks to the insects. “It’s like with plant species; you have to fight against the loss of biodiversity,” she says. On dry and rocky land, Fikret and Emel planted their first mulberry bushes, fragile plants that need watering day and night. The couple had water brought in by truck until a well was dug. Today, the 15,000 bushes nourish thousands of white worms, kept in the shade on large wooden platforms. If you listen carefully, you can hear the worms munching on the fresh mulberry leaves. “It’s an orchestral symphony, the most beautiful music in the world,” says Fikret after spreading out more freshly picked leaves. Emel lets nature do its work. The silkworm egg hatches a caterpillar, which eventually pierces a hole through the cocoon it has spun and flutters off as a moth. Working with sericulture or silk production specialists from Hatay’s Mustafa Kemal University and from Izmir, Emel heard of “the silk of peace”, or ahimsa silk, an Indian term for silk produced without pain. “Industrial production boils the cocoon to kill the worm,“ she explains. At the cooperative, each cocoon is stretched out to a thread of up to 1,700 metres of silk, says her 32-year-old daughter Tugce, who studied textiles and design. “But all of it cannot be used because of the hole, which damages the filament.” Marriage trousseau Silk production gradually declined in Hatay after the end of the Ottoman Empire in the early 20th century. Emel recalls how brides would traditionally receive a silk trousseau for their marriage. She lost nephews and cousins to the quake that was “so strong I thought no one had survived” and was then caught up helping families who needed aid. But Emel struggled to kickstart silk production again. She found her own help from The International Organization for Migration, which sent Syrian refugees to work at Appollon. Now Emel is seeking official recognition for the “peace silk of Hatay” and has filed for a protected designation of origin. About 350,000 people worked in 3,000 clothing and textile businesses in the provinces hit by the Feb 6 earthquake. Today, the numbers have been halved, according to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), which is running a campaign to recruit women. – AFP A silkworm. Weaving new bonds in post-quake Turkey Emel weaves silk fabric in Antakya – PICS BY AFP A variety of silk fabrics. Multicoloured silk thread balls THE inspiration behind Bell & Ross alternates between the sky and sea, yet this Franco-Swiss watch brand, known for its expertise in professional instruments, always remains grounded. The new BR 05 Chrono Green Steel celebrates the fusion of nature contemplation and a penchant for urban performance with its green dial. It embodies c o n t e m p o r a r y architectural design within a chronograph, tailored for urban exploration. The green dial of the BR 05 Chrono Green Steel breathes fresh life into the urban landscape, elevating the aesthetics of sports and city watches. Green, a colour symbolising luck, nature and hope, serves as an inclusive source of inspiration, resonating with a generation aspiring for renewal and change. Steel, as a material representing the emergence of new cities, showcases strength and shine. It is only fitting that the components of the 42mm diameter case, with its iconic “rounded square” design emblematic of Bell & Ross, are carved out of stainless steel to manifest the watch’s urban and modern spirit. The satin-brushed surfaces with polished bevels accentuate the thickness and elegant sophistication, akin to the play of lights in a contemporary city. The structured steel case, complemented by the green dial, seamlessly merges organic and geometric elements, appealing to modern city explorers. The integration of the steel strap into the case gives the BR 05 Chrono Green Steel a truly contemporary appearance. This design pays homage to watch styles that originated in the 1970s and has been adapted to Bell & Ross’ distinctive identity, resulting in a clear, modern and graphic timepiece that is versatile and easily readable. The green dial with lightdiffusing effects accentuates its strengths, featuring a chronograph minutes counter at three o’clock and a small seconds counter at nine o’clock. A discreet date aperture is positioned between four and five o’clock, demonstrating the watch’s focus on essential functionalities. The new Green Steel model belongs to the BR 05 family, representing the brand’s range of chronographs, housing the mechanical self-winding BRCAL301 movement known for its robustness, reliability and efficiency. Visible through the sapphire crystal case back, the rotor showcases a finely skeletonised full disc inspired by a car rim, a distinctive signature of Bell & Ross automatic movements. █ BYYASMIN ZULRAEZ BR 05 Chrono Green Steel. BR 05 Chrono Green Rubber. The BR 05 Chrono Green. – PICS BY BELL & ROSS Bell & Ross exclusive oGet a taste of the BR 05 Chrono Green Steel @thesundaily FOLLOW ON TWITTER SCAN ME

21 * SPORTS theSUN ON THURSDAY | AUGUST 3, 2023 DALAM MAHKAMAH TINGGI MALAYA DI SHAH ALAM DALAM NEGERI SELANGOR DARUL EHSAN, MALAYSIA PENGGULUNGAN SYARIKAT NO.: BA-28NCC-365-07/2023 Dalam Perkara Seksyen 466(1)(a) dan 465(1)(e) Akta Syarikat 2016 Dan Dalam Perkara Islah Mega Sdn Bhd (No. Syarikat.: 201301009670 (103915-W)) Dan Dalam Perkara Kaedah-Kaedah (Penggulungan) Syarikat, 1972 ANTARA SINCERE SPECTRUM (M) SDN BHD (No. Syarikat: 199501032507 (361713-P)) .... PEMPETISYEN DAN ISLAH MEGA SDN BHD (No. Syarikat: 201301009670 (1039512-W)) .... RESPONDEN NOTIS IKLAN NOTIS ADALAH DENGAN INI DIBERI bahawa suatu Petisyen untuk Penggulungan Syarikat yang dinamakan di atas oleh Mahkamah Tinggi telah pada 18 haribulan Julai, 2023, dikemukakan oleh SINCERE SPECTRUM (M) SDN BHD. DAN bahawa Petisyen tersebut diarahkan supaya dibicarakan di hadapan Mahkamah yang bersidang di Shah Alam pada pukul 9.00 pagi, pada 23 haribulan Oktober, 2023. DAN mana-mana pihak pemiutang atau penyumbang Syarikat tersebut yang ingin menyokong atau menentang sesuatu perintah mengikut Petisyen tersebut boleh hadir dengan tujuan itu secara peribadi atau melalui peguambelanya pada masa perbicaraan. Salinan Petisyen tersebut akan dibekalkan oleh pihak yang bertandatangan di bawah ini kepada mana-mana pemiutang atau penyumbang Syarikat tersebut yang memintanya dengan membuat bayaran yang ditetapkan. Alamat berdaftar Pempetisyen adalah di No. 61, 2nd Floor, Medan Bunus, Off Jalan Masjid India, 50100 Kuala Lumpur dan/atau alamat perniagaannya di 4-2, Jalan Bandar 3, Pusat Bandar Puchong, 47100 Puchong, Selangor. Peguamcara Pempetisyen ialah Tetuan Azraai, Hazieq & Zikry yang beralamat di B-8-5A, Level 10, Block B, Menara Uncang Emas, Jalan Loke Yew, 55200, Kuala Lumpur. Bertarikh pada 31 haribulan Julai, 2023 t.t ........................................... AZRAAI, HAZIEQ & ZIKRY Peguamcara bagi pihak Pempetisyen PERINGATAN: Sesiapa yang ingin hadir pada perbicaraan Petisyen tersebut hendaklah menyampaikan, atau menghantar dengan pos, kepada peguamcara yang dinamakan di atas suatu notis bertulis tentang niatnya sebegitu. Notis tersebut mestilah menyatakan nama dan alamat pihak berkenaan, atau jika ia sebuah firma, nama dan alamat firma, dan mestilah ditandatangani oleh pihak atau firma berkenaan atau peguamcaranya, jika ada. Notis hendaklah disampaikan, atau jika dihantar dengan pos, hendaklah dihantar dalam jangkamasa mencukupi, supaya sampai kepada pihak yang dinamakan di atas sebelum pukul 12 tengahari pada 20 haribulan Ogos, 2023 (sehari sebelum tarikh yang ditetapkan untuk perbicaraan Petisyen tersebut). [Ruj Kami: AHZ/2.2/450/2022/CCMP(IGSB)] LOST CERTIFICATES The following Share Certificates have been reported lost or destroyed Certificate No Name No Of Share LAM SOON (M) BHD 37588 – 590 CHOY PANG WAI @ PANG WAI 3 x 1000 16603 CHIAM JEE TEE 3 x 1000 35218 – 219 14441 LIM BOOY 3 X 1000 28689 – 690 32079 – 080 WENG CHYE @ WONG SIN CHOO 2 x 1000 35810 – 811 KOK KEE CHING 2 x 1000 7643 SIM KONG TIAU 3 x 1000 19209 – 210 8829 TEE KENG SING 1 x 1000 3041 KAM KUAN YOCK 3 x 1000 30880 – 881 4957 LIM KOK KIN 3 x 1000 19753 – 754 22285 – 286 AN WAN SIONG 2 x 1000 11220 – 229 DATO LEE KIM SAI 10 x 1000 7727 SOH BAH TONG 3 x 1000 32754 – 755 37995 – 996 POON KONG THO 2 x 10000 22365 – 366 TANG HOCK LOK 2 x 1000 17903 LEE AI NEE 1 x 1000 39325 40914 – 916 POO HAI TONG 4 x 1000 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that if within fourteen (14) days from the date hereof, no claim or representation in respect of such certificates is made to the Directors, they will then proceed to issue replacement certificates and the original certificates will be deemed cancelled and void. REGISTRARS BOARDROOM SHARE REGISTRARS SDN Registration No. 199601006647(378993-D) Date: 03.08.2023 NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR VOLUNTARY WINDING UP OF LIMITED LIABILITY PARTNERSHIP (Section 50(4)(a) of the Limited Liability Partnerships Act 2012) Notice is hereby given that AVANTE WELLNESS PLT (201704000327 (LLP0010453-LGN)) will be making an application to the Registrar of Limited Liability Partnerships for a declaration of dissolution pursuant to section 50(2) of the Limited Liability Partnerships Act 2012 within seven (7) days after the publication of this notice. Any partner or creditor of the LLP desiring to object to the application may do so in writing to the Companies Commission of Malaysia within thirty (30) days from the date of this notice. 322 Notices ‘Ballgate’ Ponting questions ball change that favoured England and no post-series drinks “BALLGATE” and the reported lack of a postmatch drink between the two sides dominated Australian press coverage following England’s victory in the fifth Ashes Test at The Oval. The changing of the ball just before rain stopped play on the fourth day, when openers David Warner and Usman Khawaja were well set, sparked a fair amount of outrage among Australian journalists and pundits. The Daily Telegraph in Australia described the ball change as “disgraceful”, while Peter Lalor in The Australian asked if a “blunder” by the umpires had cost Australia the series victory, saying the change “appeared to alter the course of the game” and argued it “cost the visitors dearly”. And the Sydney Morning Herald quoted former Australian captain Ricky Ponting on Sky Sports who described it as “a huge blunder that needs to be investigated”. He said: “The biggest concern I have is the big discrepancy in the condition of the ball chosen to replace it. “There is no way in the world you can even look at those two balls there and say in any way they are comparable. “That is a huge moment in this game, potentially a huge moment in the Test match. And something I think has to be investigated. “I will put my hand up and say I have no doubt at all that [old] ball would not have done anywhere near as much as that one did this morning.” But writing for the same title, Daniel Brettig argued “ballgate” was not to blame for Australia’s defeat. He said: “It may be tempting to apply a conspiratorial lens to the replacement ball. “But the underlying truth of The Oval, and indeed the second half of this Ashes series, is that Australia too often left themselves in positions where they needed to perform miracles in order to get ahead of the game. “It will be a source of significant disappointment that a team of maturity and even temper was unable to summon a single performance good enough to win any of the last three Tests.” Both the Sydney Morning Herald and The Daily Telegraph reported the customary post-series drinks did not happen. The Herald quoted an England spokesman who said it had been a “misunderstanding” and Australia’s players had left the ground when they invited them in. The report said an Australian team spokesman declined to comment, but quoted sources close to the team who said they knocked on the England dressing room door a number of times and waited for more than an hour. England captain Ben Stokes tweeted that presentations to players and officials after their last Test had taken a long time and the two teams had met up later in the evening. – The Independent India thrash Windies to clinch ODI series A second-string India thrashed West Indies by 200 runs in the third one-day international yesterday to seal a 2-1 series victory in a timely boost ahead of their Asia Cup campaign next month. India entered the three-match series with their eyes on the bigger picture, which includes the Asia Cup and the home World Cup in October-November. Skipper Rohit Sharma and stalwart Virat Kohli were rested for the second ODI as part of their experiment with team combination and were not recalled for the decider even after West Indies levelled the series in Bridgetown. It did not really matter at the Brian Lara Stadium in Trinidad where India racked up 351-5 after being put into bat. Ishan Kishan (77) smashed his third successive fifty of the series and Shubman Gill struck 85 as they forged a 143-run opening stand to lay the foundation for a mammoth total. Sanju Samson made a breezy 51 and stand-in skipper Hardik Pandya provided the late flourish with an unbeaten 70 off 52 balls to take India past the 350-mark. They then returned to bundle out West Indies for 151 in 35.3 overs with only Alick Athanaze (32) and Gudakesh Motie, who made 39 not out, offering some resistance. After Mukesh Kumar (3-30) wrecked the West Indies top order, Shardul Thakur (4-37) hollowed out the bottom half as India registered their 13th consecutive ODI series win against West Indies. “As a captain I look forward to these kind of games where something is on the line,” a beaming Pandya said afterwards. “We knew that if we failed, there would be some disappointment. “The way the boys came out and showed their character and, at the same time, enjoyed it, that’s something I want this team to have. “In pressure situations, they have to absorb it but also enjoy it. Without pressure you can’t be heroes.” – Reuters WORLD ATHLETICS president Sebastian Coe says the Commonwealth Games is a strong enough brand to survive its latest crisis, but it must innovate to do so. The multi-sport event suffered a major setback last month when the Australian state of Victoria pulled out of hosting the 2026 edition, citing escalating costs. It left the Commonwealth Games Federation searching for a viable replacement at short notice amid an apparent lack of interest in a spectacle seen as losing relevance. The last Games in 2022 were held in Birmingham, but only after the English city stepped in to replace Durban in South Africa, which was stripped of hosting rights after a series of missed deadlines and financial problems. Victoria was the exclusive bidder for 2026. Despite this, Coe said he saw a future for an event which typically attracts more than 4,000 athletes from the 54 nations of the Commonwealth, almost all of them former territories of the British Empire. “The Commonwealth Games will survive this, it’s a strong product, it is about innovating and the Commonwealth Games has opportunity to do that,” he told The Australian newspaper yesterday, without detailing the innovations. “It has less branding (restrictions) than the Olympics and sometimes the World Championships, so it has potential. “I don’t see the Commonwealth Games disappearing, it has a problem at the moment, and I am hoping others are prepared to step in.” Coe, a former middle-distance world record holder, said the event remained a vital stepping stone for the Olympics, particularly track and field. “The Commonwealth Games track and field is a strong event: to win a sprint you have to beat Jamaicans; in endurance you have to beat the Kenyans and there are very strong powerful nations there,” he said. “Just under a quarter of those nations in world athletics are Commonwealth nations. It is important for track and field that the Commonwealth Games is seen as successful.” Victoria – which was due to hold the Games across five regional hubs – pulled out after claiming the initial cost of A$2 billion (RM6b) would more likely spiral to around A$7b (RM21b). – AFP Coe sees future for troubled Commonwealth Games Andreescu screams and gets heckler removed FORMER US Open winner Bianca Andreescu let rip at a fan after the Canadian star was constantly heckled during her Citi Open in Washington defeat to Marta Kostyuk yesterday. The tennis ace raged at a man in the stands after he could be heard calling out during points. Andreescu issued a demand to the umpire to remove him from the arena, but the incident proved to be an unwanted distraction as she fell to an unexpected defeat, losing 2-6, 6-3, 7-6 (5). With the score finely poised at 2-2 in the final set, Andreescu served for a point and when her serve landed outside of the service box, the man echoed the “out” call with one of his own. The 23-year-old initially turned away to prepare for her second serve when she finally decided enough was enough when the man called out again. Throughout the match, the man could be heard cheering after she missed her serves and proved to be a nuisance to the one-time Major winner. The world No. 44 finally cracked as she turned to him and yelled: “Shut up!” at the top of her lungs, before complaining to the umpire about the constant interruptions. Eventually, the match was stopped when Andreescu refused to continue until security were called to deal with the situation. Once he had been taken out of the stadium, Andreescu returned to the court and carried on playing. But it was Kostyuk who edged out a close tiebreak to seal her place in the next round as she collapsed to the ground in delight. Woakes grateful for Broad and Anderson CHRIS WOAKES believes his England career has benefitted from the knowledge he has gained from Stuart Broad and James Anderson rather than been hampered by the presence of the veteran pacemen. Despite his outstanding Test record on home soil, double World Cup-winner Woakes has often found himself on the outside looking in when it comes to redball cricket given the enduring careers of Anderson and the now retired Broad, who bowed out after the Ashes finale at The Oval. “I feel very lucky to have played with Stuart. Jimmy’s the same. The stuff that I’ve learned from them has had a huge impact on how I’ve bowled about over the years. It’s been an honour.” He added: “It’s extended my international career, if anything. We won’t know what would have been if they hadn’t been around, but I only have good things to say in terms of the knowledge they’ve passed on.” SHORTS Ishan Kishan of India. – AFPPIX

22 theSUN ON THURSDAY | AUGUST 3, 2023 SPORTS /theSunMedia FOLLOW ON YOUTUBE SCAN ME 5672/2023 02/08/2023 (WED) 9873 7616 6502 4290 9526 3081 1951 6240 6633 0760 0563 7953 4917 5057 1642 9084 9156 6000 4225 2455 0609 3769 8708 6,999,434.18 9873 9873 9873 6502 6502 7616 6502 6502 7616 7616 9873 7616 382,806.46 9873 7616 6502 RABBIT 60498 73556 3556 556 84217 5 6 5 2 139352 39352 9352 352 13935 1393 139 1 3 8,332,793.67 4,594,545.30 12 21 25 31 46 54 307,424.83 62 9 13 15 21 12 28 29 35 38 43 21,334,456.98 25 T Has the world caught up? HE United States came into the Women’s World Cup as favourites to win a third title in a row but they head into the last 16 looking anything but champions after limping through the group stage. There were already doubts about Vlatko Andonovski’s side after an unimpressive 3-0 win over Vietnam in their opening game was followed by a 1-1 draw with the Netherlands. Andonovski and his players put a positive spin on those displays but there were very few redeeming features about their performance on Tuesday, when they held on for a 0-0 draw with World Cup debutants Portugal to scrape through to the knockout phase. Ana Capeta’s shot that hit the post in injury time very nearly won the game for Portugal, which would have condemned the holders to an unthinkable group-stage exit. But aside from surviving that scare, the underlying numbers are concerning for the Americans. They had less of the possession at Eden Park and failed to score for the first time in 15 World Cup games, since a 0-0 draw with Sweden in the 2015 group phase. They also had less of the possession in their draw with the Dutch, while their finishing has been poor since the tournament started. “I don’t think that was a good performance all together, starting from the back,” admitted Andonovski. “I don’t think we were able to solve the problems that the opponents presented. There were moments where we did and it looked good, but those moments were very few and not enough to be able to walk out of here with several goals.” It is hard to escape the feeling that the rest of the world is catching up with the US fast. The best women’s club football these days is surely being played in Europe, where Barcelona have taken over from Lyon as the dominant force in the Champions League. Yet captain Lindsey Horan, at Lyon, is the only member of the US team currently playing in Europe. Could it be that the standard of play in the domestic NWSL is not at the level needed to prepare Andonovski’s squad for the World Cup stage? Alex Morgan, who has played for the US in the last three World Cups, repeated an oft-used phrase in this tournament to explain her team’s travails against Portugal. “Every team in this World Cup is going to be difficult to play. The game is growing and the quality is continuing to rise,” she said. Their difficulties against the Netherlands and Portugal so far this year suggest they will struggle against top European opposition in the knockout phase. They now leave New Zealand to head to Australia for a last-16 tie on Sunday in Melbourne which will almost certainly be against Olympic silver medallists Sweden. If they do make the quarterfinals, they will return to Auckland for a meeting with Norway or an ominous-looking Japan. Asked by local media if they would be back in New Zealand at this World Cup, Morgan replied: “That is the plan.” – AFP Thomas’ final shot at redemption JUSTIN THOMAS finds himself in an extremely unfamiliar and unenviable position – on the outside looking in on the FedExCup playoffs. Thomas has never missed the playoffs as a pro on the PGA Tour and, in fact, he has missed out on playing in the Tour Championship at East Lake Golf Club in Atlanta just once. And that was his rookie season in 2013. So, the 2017 FedExCup champion is playing in this week’s Wyndham Championship in Greensboro, North Carolina, for the first time since 2016 – his final shot at cracking the top 70 to advance to the St. Jude Championship, which is Round 1 of the playoffs. Thomas sits at No. 79 heading into today’s first round. “The reality is, you know, I need to play well this week to give that an opportunity to come out” and make the playoffs, Thomas said. “That’s the unfortunate but also realistic part of where I’m at right now. I’m excited. I think it’s an unbelievable opportunity. “I’m just going to go out and play the best that I can and try to see if we can get in contention to try to win a golf tournament and see if we can get on a little run to end the season.” “I’m obviously not playing as well as I have in the past, but I’m really not playing that poorly. “I’m not having a bad season, I just haven’t won anything, haven’t finished tournaments off how I want.” – Field Level Media PGA Tour gets LIV merger watchdog TIGER WOODS is joining the PGA Tour’s newly expanded policy board, the tour announced Tuesday, in a move aimed at cooling player tensions over secrecy surrounding merger talks with the Saudi backers of LIV Golf. The 15-time major champion, a longtime supporter of the PGA Tour in its fight with upstart LIV, will have a direct say in approving any eventual deal with the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), the framework of which was unveiled in June to the shock of tour players. “I’m honoured to represent the players of the PGA Tour,“ Woods said in a statement from the tour. “This is a critical point for the tour, and the players will do their best to make certain that any changes that are made in tour operations are in the best interest of all tour stakeholders, including fans, sponsors and players.” PGA commissioner Jay Monahan, under fire from many players over handling of the LIV talks since he made the announcement, said future rule changes will require the involvement and approval of the six player directors from the board, including Woods and Rory McIlroy. That gives player representatives an upper hand on the 11-member board and the power in all decisions regarding any final agreement with the Saudis. PGA player Charley Hoffman said Woods pushed for a place among the decision makers and Monahan had little choice than to agree. “Tiger has done more for golf than arguably anybody,“ Hoffman said. “To have him sit in those meetings now is very powerful and I think his voice will be listened to.” – AFP Portugal’s Jessica Silva (left) in action with Crystal Dunn of the US. – REUTERSPIX USA look far from favourites after limping into last 16 571 433 + SNAKE 158 997 + TIGER 419 959 +DRAGON Draw Date: 02/08/23 (Wed) Draw No: 5619/23 Venue: PERAK TURF CLUB 1433 8997 9959 2074 + 7059 5820 + 0146 3206 + 7459 2523 + 1883 9659 + 0335 8108 + 7818 9524 + 4877 2329 + 1381 0052 + 5190 0322 + 7259 RM2,601,488.60 1433 + 8997 8997 + 1433 1433 + 9959 9959 + 1433 8997 + 9959 9959 + 8997 RM109,361.60 RM1,955,811.90 RM1,676,527.70 RM2,586,754.20 662 074 117 059 585 820 720 146 953 206 007 459 742 523 151 883 239 659 300 335 228 108 757 818 849 524 234 877 992 329 431 381 670 052 615 190 090 322 447 259 433 997 959 RM906,116.00 433 + 997 + 959 997 + 959 + 433 433 + 959 + 997 959 + 433 + 997 997 + 433 + 959 959 + 997 + 433 1+3DJ1 RM20.1M,J2 RM210K & 3+3D Bonus1 RM177k won on 30/7/23

23 SPORTS theSUN ON THURSDAY | AUGUST 3, 2023 Dembele poised to leave Barca BAYERN MUNICH are going to have to significantly improve their third bid in order to secure Harry Kane, after negotiations with Tottenham Hotspur. A delegation of Hans-Christian Dreesen and Marco Neppe flew into London for talks with Daniel Levy on Tuesday, as a second bid of £85 million (RM493m) was rejected. While Bayern feel they are getting closer to a deal, separate sources insist that there is still a huge difference in price and that Levy will accept no less than £100 million (RM580m). The Tottenham chairman quoted Real Madrid that price in June, which put the Spanish club off after they paid similar for Jude Bellingham. While Bayern are hoping to bring the fee down to around £90m (RM522m), the message has repeatedly been that Levy will not budge and this saga could yet go on for weeks. Now The Evening Standard are reporting that Kane has told Bayern they need to get a deal in place before the new Premier League season, which begins on Aug 11, if he is to make the move this summer. Tottenham travel to Brentford on Sunday, Aug 13 in Ange Postecoglou’s first official match at the helm. The transfer window will remain open until Sept 1 but once the season gets underway, it seems Kane is no longer offering guarantees he would be prepared to make the transfer happen. But Kane is also thought to be open to the idea of running down his contract when he is likely to have more options in play next summer. From January 2024, he would be free to discuss a summer transfer with foreign clubs as he enters the final six months of his contract. Furthermore, Kane would also profit financially if he was to run down his Spurs contract as his representatives could negotiate a bigger salary with his next club. Tottenham are believed to be insisting on a buy-back clause for their all-time record goalscorer as there is a chance he could return to the Premier League in the future if he moves to Germany. Kane is still determined to gun down Alan Shearer’s all-time Premier League goalscoring record but he is currently prioritising the prospect of winning trophies over any individual accolades. Postecoglou is refusing to offer Spurs fans any assurances that Kane will be staying put following his conversations with the Tottenham striker which have still been described as positive. Spurs face Shakhtar Donetsk on Sunday and Barcelona next Wednesday in the Joan Gamper Trophy final before they get down to business against the Bees in just under two weeks’ time. – Express Newspapers Uncertain future Munich need much-improved Kane offer after Spurs reject RM493m bid for striker Steel Roses wilt on global stage CHINA’S latest global challenge ended with a thrashing handed out by a familiar foe on Tuesday in a loss that underscored once more how far the Steel Roses have fallen since their sole appearance in the Women’s World Cup final 24 years ago. Dutch coach Sarina Wiegman masterminded England’s thumping 6-1 win in Adelaide, two years after overseeing an even more emphatic 8- 2 dismantling of the Chinese while in charge of the Netherlands at the Olympic Games. That defeat was seen as a humiliation for a country that had been a major force in women’s football, reaching the final of both the 1996 Olympic Games and the 1999 Women’s World Cup, losing narrowly to the United States both times. “From the current situation we can see there’s a huge gap between us and the European teams,” coach Shui Qingxia said after a loss that condemned China to third place in Group D behind England and Denmark. “We are not going to see this gap and do nothing, but rather we will do things like transition and balance and physicality. “I want to evaluate these shortcomings and work harder on them because we have more games to come in the future. This generation’s efforts will help the generations that follow.” Shui faces a daunting task to achieve a turnaround in a squad dominated in every way by England as she prepares for the Asian Games and the next phase of Asia’s qualifiers for the Olympics in Paris. – Reuters Lauren James (centre) celebrates scoring England’s fourth goal during the 2023 Women’s World Cup against China at Hindmarsh Stadium in Adelaide, Australia. – REUTERSPIX Lauren steps out of brother’s shadow LAUREN JAMES said on the eve of the Women’s World Cup that she wanted to be known as more than just the sister of Chelsea’s Reece James – safe to say she has now done that, and more. The 21-year-old sparkled in a 6-1 annihilation of China on Tuesday as European champions England swept into the last 16 of the World Cup and a meeting with Nigeria. James scored twice, had another disallowed and a hand in three other goals in a remarkable display. She had needed just six minutes to stamp her mark on the tournament in Australia and New Zealand with a wonderful strike from outside the area in a 1-0 win over Denmark. Coach Sarina Wiegman resisted calls to start the exciting attacker in the tournament opener against Haiti, when England underwhelmed in a 1-0 win thanks to a penalty. But James, who like England men’s international Reece plays for Chelsea, was given a start in the next match against the Danes and was the best player on the pitch for 45 minutes. She rightfully kept her place for the China game in Adelaide and produced a scintillating display to light up the World Cup. “She’s special – a very special player for us and for women’s football in general,” England teammate Chloe Kelly told reporters. Wiegman makes a point of not picking out individual players for praise, but she conceded afterwards that James “did special things”. James came off in the 81st minute to a standing ovation. For many casual football fans brother Reece, the attacking fullback who has excelled for Chelsea, will be the better known of the siblings, who are close. Speaking to English media ahead of the World Cup, James admitted that always being talked about in the same breath as her brother bothered her. “Even just ‘that’s Lauren James, that’s Reece’s sister’, but I want to carve that out and be known as ‘this is Lauren James’,” she said. James said having a hand in five of England’s six goals was “what dreams are made of”. “I felt free, whether I am on the wing or in the middle I am just happy to be on the pitch. I think like last game I thought, why not hit it and see what happens?” – AFP Ousmane Dembele BARCELONA boss Xavi Hernandez confirmed yesterday that Ousmane Dembele is poised to leave the Spanish giants after receiving an offer from Paris Saint-Germain. Dembele, 26, was left on the bench yesterday as Barcelona wrapped up their North American preseason tour with a 1-0 win over AC Milan in Las Vegas. Afterward, Xavi told Spanish television that French international Dembele – who scored in last weekend’s victory over Real Madrid in Dallas – had been left out after informing Barcelona he wanted to leave. “I will be very clear,” Xavi said. “He has asked us that he wants to leave, he has been very direct, that he has a proposal from Paris Saint-Germain, that they have called him from there and here we cannot do anything. It is his personal decision. “To me, it hurts me because I think we have taken great care of him here so that he is happy and content and continues to make a difference for us. But he says that he has this proposal and that he has decided to leave. That is why he has not played today.” Dembele, who joined Barcelona in 2017, has one year left on his contract with the La Liga giants. – AFP

theSun is published and printed by Sun Media Corporation Sdn Bhd (221220-K) of Lot 6, Jalan 51/217, 46050 Petaling Jaya, Selangor. Tel: 03-7784 6688 Fax: 03-7783 7435 • Tel (Editorial): 03-7784 6688 Fax: 03-7785 2624/5 Email: [email protected] • Tel (Advertising): 03-7784 8888 Fax: 03-7784 4424 Email: [email protected] LIVERPOOL manager Jurgen Klopp yesterday urged football authorities to address the late closure of the transfer window in the Saudi Arabia league, fearing it may have a detrimental effect on European clubs. Speaking in Singapore ahead of his team’s pre-season friendly against German champions Bayern Munich, Klopp voiced his concern while reacting to the news that former Liverpool striker Sadio Mane is set to leave Bayern to join Saudi side Al Nassr. Since the start of the year, clubs in the oil-rich Middle Eastern kingdom have spent generously to sign some of the world’s leading players including Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kante. Brazilian midfielder Fabinho on Monday became the third Liverpool player to move to a Saudi club in this close season when he joined Al-Ittihad in a £40 million (RM232m) deal, hot on the heels of Jordan Henderson and Roberto Firmino. Klopp appears concerned that the closure of the Saudi transfer window on Sept 20, three weeks after it shuts in Europe, could impact clubs who would be unable to sign suitable replacements. “The influence of Saudi Arabia? We will see. I don’t know. At the moment it looks like they have quite an influence, it is massive,” said the German. “I think that pretty much the worst thing is that the transfer window in Saudi Arabia is open for three weeks longer. If I am right, I heard something like that. Then, at least in Europe, that’s not helpful. So UEFA and FIFA must find solutions for that. “But in the end, I don’t know at this moment exactly what will happen. It is already influential, for us, for sure. We will have to learn to deal with it, but that’s what we do,” he added. “That’s pretty much all I can say about it, time will show.” Bayern Munich manager Thomas Tuchel was also asked about the rising influence of Saudi football and he likened it to the Chinese Super League where clubs also spent heavily on importing footballing talent in the middle of the last decade. “I’m just observing the situation, which is a very new situation,” said the Bayern boss. “It’s maybe a bit similar to the situation when China started their league. It’s kind of a similar gold rush there and we’re experiencing the next league which tries to become more popular, more famous and tries to build a brand by signing a lot of quality players and coaches,” he added. “It’s a completely new situation and a bit too early for me to have a clear opinion. So I’m an observer, a surprised observer.” According to Transfermarkt, Saudi Pro League clubs have spent €409m (RM1.84b) so far this summer – the fifth-highest total in world football and more than Spain’s La Liga – €254m (RM1.14b). The Premier League leads the way with €1.37 billion (RM6.16b) spent, followed by Italy’s Serie A (€548m/RM2.66b), France’s Ligue 1 (€458m/RM2.06b) and Germany’s Bundesliga (€451m/RM2.02b). BBC Sport understands leading Premier League clubs have been told the Saudi Pro League has set aside funds to turn the country into a football force over the next 10 years. Four of the leading Saudi Arabian clubs were taken over by the country’s Public Investment Fund in June. Liverpool are not the only club that has been affected by players moving to Saudi Arabia. Senegal keeper Edouard Mendy from Chelsea and winger Riyad Mahrez from Manchester City have moved to Al-Ahli while Al-Ittihad have brought in former Real Madrid striker Benzema, ex-Chelsea midfielder Kante and Portuguese forward Jota from Celtic. Al-Hilal, who made a world-record £259m (RM1.5b) bid for Paris St-Germain forward Kylian Mbappe, have signed Portugal midfielder Ruben Neves from Wolves and Senegal defender Kalidou Koulibaly from Chelsea. Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has said the Saudi Pro League’s financial power has “changed the market” for transfers and elite clubs “need to be aware of what is happening”. – AFP or download app from the App Store or Google PlayTM . Read iPaper at www.thesundaily.my Free access to iPaper PDF Download SCAN ME THURSDAY • AUGUST 3, 2023 ‘Not helpful’ Klopp hits out at late closure of Saudi Arabia league transfer window Klopp SWEDEN coach Peter Gerhardsson said his in-form side are “convinced” they can knock the United States out of the Women’s World Cup after setting up a last-16 tie with the holders this weekend. A Rebecka Blomqvist header and an Elin Rubensson penalty gave a much-changed Sweden team a 2-0 win over Argentina in Hamilton yesterday as they topped Group G with three wins out of three. The world’s third-ranked team will now head to Melbourne to play the USA on Sunday, after the reigning world champions stumbled out of their group in second place with just one win. It will be their first meeting since Sweden beat the USA 3-0 at the Tokyo Olympics two years ago on their way to taking the silver medal. “We have played really good group-stage games, we have won all three of them, and we also beat them in the Olympics,” said Sofia Jakobsson, who came into Sweden’s line-up against Argentina and set up the opening goal. “We are a confident team and looking forward to playing these games where it really matters and you have to win to move forward.” Sweden, who came third at the 2019 World Cup, had already secured a place in the knockout phase before their final group game by thrashing Italy 5-0 last weekend. “The US are ranked No. 1. It might be better to play them on Sunday than in the semis or final,” said Gerhardsson. “From a psychological perspective we know we can beat them. I think the players are convinced they can definitely win on Sunday and I believe that too.” Two goals from Blackstenius and one from Lina Hurtig gave Sweden a convincing win over the USA in Tokyo. “They have fantastic players. You can never count out the USA. They have been in these games many, many times, and they have won the World Cup the last two times. “Even if their game has not been fully 100% I know when they go into the end of the tournament and it is games where you win or you go home, it will be super tough to play against them,” Gerhardsson said. Sweden are just the second team after Japan to complete the group phase with a 100% record. They have scored nine goals and conceded only one. Yestersday’s result meant elimination for Argentina, who have still never won a World Cup match in 12 attempts across four appearances at the finals. In the other group match, South Africa won a Women’s World Cup match for the first time with a stunning 3-2 victory over Italy to reach the last 16 in a thriller. The Italians were in tears at the end as their opponents celebrated a famous win. “Over the last two weeks, I’ve lost three family members. I could have gone home but I chose to stay with my girls,” said Kgatlana, who plays for Racing Louisville in the United States. “Because that’s how much it means.” Coach Desiree Ellis added: “This is just amazing. I thought they were incredible. “I said we were going to fight for every ball. We said we’re not going to give up and they were absolutely magnificent. “This victory is for everyone back home, people that got up in the early hours of the morning to support us – that is for them.” – AFP Bullish Sweden set up USA showdown after Argentine win Sweden’s Rebecca Blomkvist (centre) celebrates scoring her team’s first goal during the 2023 Women’s World Cup Group G match yesterday against Argentina at Waikato Stadium in Hamilton. – AFPPIX