Malaysian Paperwww.thesun.my RM1.00 PER COPYRM1WEDNESDAYAPR 1, 2026SCAN MENo. 9108 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195) BEAMING BEST ... SPM top-scorers celebrate their achievements at SMK Tinggi Kajang where Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek reviewed the exam results yesterday. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUNParalysed teen beats all odds to score 3As Report on—page 3Najib ordered to pay SRC US$1.3bReport on hpage 5High Court finds former PM guilty of breach of trust and abuse of power, with judge labelling his actions as calculated fraud rather than mere negligence.Cancer survivor who never gives up shares inspiring journey to academic achievement.Total of 366,435 candidates, or 94.29%, qualified for certificate, with 376 of them achieving A+ in all subjects.Best SPM results in five yearsRM1m boost for Seremban schoolDonation goes towards building new block with modern classrooms and library.Report on—page 49 773141 086004 eISSN 3141-0863Report on—page 2
WEDNESDAY | APR 1, 20262Students without UPSR, PT3 experience ‘highly resilient’KAJANG: Students who sat for Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) without taking the traditional UPSR and PT3 exams have shown remarkable resilience, producing impressive results last year, said Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek. She added that this pioneering cohort, often in the spotlight for bypassing Malaysia’s centralised examination system at the primary and lower secondary levels, successfully navigated multiple challenges, including learning disruptions caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. “This is a generation that has always been talked about because they did not sit for any formal examinations previously. Yet, they have shown through their results that they are highly resilient,” she said after reviewing the SPM 2025 outcomes at Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Tinggi Kajang yesterday. She said the achievement also reflected the effectiveness of the Education Ministry and schools’ ongoing interventions and support programmes. “They have faced numerous challenges, including the pandemic, and today their results demonstrate the strength and resilience fostered through the support and initiatives we implemented,” she added. Fadhlina emphasised that the trials these students experienced had shaped their determination and Fadhlina meeting with SPM candidates at Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Tinggi Kajang yesterday. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUNŰ BY FAIZ RUZMAN [email protected] system improving outcome of ‘special’ groupsPUTRAJAYA: Malaysia’s push for a more inclusive education system is beginning to show results, with the 2025 Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) examination recording improved outcomes among students with special needs and marginalised groups, alongside a narrowing urban-rural gap. Education Director-General Datuk Dr Mohd Azam Ahmad said the gains reflect sustained efforts by the Education Ministry to ensure no student is left behind. “Students with special educational needs posted improved outcomes, with 1,516 out of 1,878 candidates (80.72%) qualifying for the certificate, up from 1,377 (78.37%) in 2024,” he said when announcing the results yesterday. Among the standout improvements were candidates from Sekolah Bimbingan Jalinan Kasih, where all 10 students who sat for the examination qualified for the SPM certificate, compared with just two the previous year. “This marks an increase of eight candidates and demonstrates the effectiveness of targeted interventions ,” he said. Performance among Orang Aslicandidates under the Special Comprehensive Model School 11 programme also strengthened, both in participation and achievement. Five Orang Asli candidates achieved straight As, while 133 obtained at least a credit and 609 secured passes. Candidates from Integrity Schools and Henry Gurney institutions also recorded improved outcomes, with 99 sitting for the examination compared to 94 last year. The urban-rural achievement gap also narrowed slightly, with urban candidates recording a grade point average of 4.40, while rural candidates improved to 4.81. – BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI63 out of 95 subjects record better grades, STEM registers declinePUTRAJAYA: Nearly two-thirds of subjects in the 2025 Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) saw improved performance, even as several core and STEM areas registered slight declines. Education Director-General Datuk Dr Mohd Azam Ahmad said 63 out of 95 subjects recorded better grades based on the Subject Performance Grade, while 29 declined and three remained unchanged compared with 2024. Performance among the seven core subjects was mixed, with three showing gains and four recording declines. Islamic Studies led the improvement, rising 0.79 points to 3.20 from 3.99 in 2024, while Bahasa Melayu dipped slightly by 0.13 points. In STEM electives, covering Pure Science and Additional Mathematics, performance generally fell between 0.02 and 0.15 points. However, among 12 applied science and engineering subjects, eight recorded improvements. “Electrical and Electronic Engineering Studies posted the highest increase, jumping 1.64 points to 2.01 from 3.65 last year.” Civil Engineering Studies fell by 0.25 points, while Computer Science held steady at 3.63. Of the 22 vocational STEM subjects, 16 improved, five declined and one remained unchanged. In the Humanities and Applied Literature category, 11 of 12 subjects improved. Entrepreneurship Studies led the gains with 0.94 points, while Principles of Accounting saw a minor decline of 0.07 points. For Islamic Studies electives, nine of 13 subjects improved, with Al-Syariah recording the strongest gain of 1.04 points. Among language electives, five of seven subjects improved, with Kadazandusun Language gaining 0.30 points, while Semai Language fell by 0.66 points. – BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDIStrongest SPM performance in five yearsPUTRAJAYA: The 2025 Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) results marked the strongest performance in five years, with more students qualifying for certificates, fewer absentees and broad-based improvements across key indicators. Education Director-General Datuk Dr Mohd Azam Ahmad said 366,435 candidates, or 94.29%, qualified for the SPM certificate this time, up from 355,933 (94.01%) previously. Among candidates from public schools, 329,272 (94.51%) obtained the certificate, compared with 319,016 (94.20%) previously. A total of 413,299 candidates registered for the examination at 3,350 centres nationwide, including 395,740 new candidates who sat for at least six subjects. “In terms of top performers, 376 candidates obtained A+ in all subjects, an increase of 24 from 352 in 2024. “However, the number of candidates achieving excellent results (A+, A and A-) declined slightly to 13,779 (3.55%), compared with 13,827 (3.65%) last year,” he said. oMore candidates qualify for certificates this year with 376 obtaining A+ in all subjects, an increase from 352 in 2024: Education DGŰ BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD [email protected] Azam added that the number of candidates obtaining credits (grade C) rose significantly to 92,347 (23.76%), an increase of 6,307 candidates, while those passing with at least a grade E also increased to 141,728 (36.47%). “The number of candidates recording all-fail results dropped to 1,631 (0.42%) in 2025, compared with 1,789 (0.47%) in 2024.” He said the national average grade improved to 4.42 from 4.49 in 2024, marking the best performance since 2021. Absenteeism also improved, with 7,099 candidates (1.79%) absent, down from 8,108 (2.10%) last year. Among public school candidates, absenteeism fell to 5,032 (1.42%) from 6,246 in 2024. Mohd Azam said absenteeism persists each year due to various factors despite continuous intervention efforts by the ministry. “Together with state education departments, district education offices and schools, we carry out various intervention programmes, including outreach visits to students’ homes. “Teachers actively track down students and provide guidance and advice to both parents and candidates to ensure they attend the examination. He said common reasons for absenteeism include students entering the workforce, relocating overseas, involvement in accidents, family-related issues, health problems, transport difficulties and deaths. “There are also cases involving students being detained by authorities. “SPM registration begins early in the year, while the examination is held towards the end of the year. “Within that long gap, many unforeseen circumstances can arise,” he said. He added that the ministry would continue addressing these challenges through sustained intervention measures. Mohd Azam said the 2025 cohort – among the earliest groups affected by the Covid-19 pandemic at secondary school level – demonstrated notable resilience. He said the ministry implemented continuous interventions and policy adjustments throughout their schooling years to support learning recovery. “The Education Ministry, state education departments and district education offices have worked closely to implement coordinated interventions and improve education delivery.ability to achieve strong results. “Overall, they have proven that overcoming these tests has strengthened them to perform exceptionally well in SPM,” she said. She said the ministry would continue to strengthen interventions targeting absenteeism. Key areas of focus include improving student attendance, providing socio-economic support and enhancing academic assistance through tuition and home-visit programmes. “There are still issues that require serious attention at every level. That is why state and district education departments, as well as schools, have been directed to adopt an accountability approach to monitor attendance closely.”
WEDNESDAY | APR 1, 20263Teen completes SPM despite facing cancer, paralysisKAJANG: Fernandez Mingeat never imagined he would hold a slip of paper celebrating academic success. Left paralysed after cancer treatment, the 17-year-old arts stream student from SMK Tinggi Kajang had spent years shuttling between hospital wards and classrooms, wondering if he could even complete his SPM examination. Yesterday, those fears were swept aside when Fernandez oFernandez relied on self-studying, online tuition to keep upŰ BY FAIZ RUZMAN [email protected] of joy, relief and pride as students collect resultsKAJANG: Relief, quiet disappointment and tears of joy played out across schools yesterday as students collected their SPM results – each slip of paper carrying a story of hard work, sacrifice and resilience.At SMJK Yu Hua, Danisha Daria Muhammad Nur Azlan, who has studied in the Chinese-vernacular school since Form One, obtained five As, but admitted to feeling a tinge of sadness when comparing her results with her peers. “Honestly, I’m okay. I’ve made peace with fate. But, when I look at my friends whose results are even better, I do feel a little sad. But I’m satisfied. I know I did my best,” said the accounting stream student. She added that adjusting to the school environment had not always been easy, despite her fluency in Mandarin. “At first, it was a bit difficult because the majority in my class are Chinese. Even though I’m fluent in the language, there are still some cultural differences.” Her mother, Rabiatul Badriah, 45, said she had high expectations but was unsure how her daughter would fare in a Chinese-medium school. “As a mother seeing a Malay child competing in a Chinese secondary school, the expectations are very high. But Alhamdulillah, she did well.” At the same school, Ng Hui San’s results day was marked by tears of joy. The accounting stream student, who scored 11 As, broke down after seeing her slip, although her parents were unable to attend due to work. “I was so excited, and then I just cried. Because I was so happy. I didn’t expect it.” Ng said the Bahasa Melayu and Chinese language papers were among the toughest, particularly the essay sections. Still, she kept a simple routine of revision and discipline rather than relying on last-minute study. “Just try your best and do everything before the exams. Don’t do things last minute,” she said, adding that she hopes to enter matriculation or the Institute of Teacher Education. At SMK Tinggi Kajang, Navynesh Vijaya Kumar also celebrated 11 As, after giving up one of his biggest distractions – video games. “I used to play (for about) seven hours a day. But once I reached Form Four, I started feeling the pressure. I realised I needed to build a strong foundation early on. By Form Five, I stopped gaming altogether.” – By Faiz RuzmanStudents react after receiving their SPM 2025 results at SMJK Yu Hua yesterday. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUNPrioritise local goods, says AnwarPETALING JAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has urged Malaysians to prioritise local goods and support homegrown entrepreneurs as the country braces for the fallout from a worsening global energy crisis. Speaking after chairing a National Economic Action Council meeting yesterday, he said bolstering the domestic economy is crucial to weathering external shocks. “Prioritise local goods and support our entrepreneurs, as internal strength is our primary shield in facing the global energy crisis following the conflict in West Asia.” The council conducted a detailed review of the increasingly severe global energy crisis and its potential impact on the country’s economy and public wellbeing. Anwar said the world is entering a more challenging and uncertain phase, adding that Malaysia is not immune to its effects. “Therefore, we must not be complacent or overly comfortable. We must remain prepared with discipline, resilience and a strong spirit of unity.” He added that despite the headwinds, Malaysia’s economic fundamentals remain strong and resilient, with the Madani government committed to proactive and data-driven measures. He also assured that the government would continue engaging with industry players, and small and medium enterprises to ensure policies are comprehensive, balanced and effective. “God willing, every decision will continue to be guided by responsibility and the interests of the public.”Ű BY HARITH KAMAL [email protected] Diesel aid to be maintainedPETALING JAYA: The government will continue its Budi Madani Diesel (Budi Diesel) aid at RM300 per month for April 2026, as global energy markets remain volatile. The Finance Ministry announced yesterday in a statement that an additional interim RM100 will also be provided, keeping the total assistance for Budi Individu and Budi Agri-Komoditi recipients at RM300. The aid will be disbursed from April 8, benefiting about 340,000 recipients with a total allocation of approximately RM102 million. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim emphasised that the government remains acutely aware of the pressures facing households amid surging global fuel prices. “This measure ensures diesel users, particularly individuals and the agri-commodity sector, continue to receive support and are shielded from full exposure to global fuel price hikes.” Since its launch in May 2024, Budi Diesel has disbursed RM1.12 billion in cash aid, targeting those most in need while maintaining fiscal discipline amid ongoing global energy pressures. “The government is also exploring medium and long-term measures to ensure the subsidy system remains sustainable, transparent and continues to benefit (the public). “Officials will closely monitor global energy markets and are ready to take further steps to maintain a stable and sufficient supply.” – By Harith Kamalcollected his results: three As and four Bs – a triumph against all odds. “I really didn’t expect it because I was admitted to the ward many times,” he said, expressing disbelief. “I missed a lot of school because of hospital appointments. So I really, really didn’t expect it.” Originally from Sarawak, Fernandez moved with his family to Selangor 15 years ago. At 14, he was diagnosed with cancer. His mother, Roselind Jelanan, 40, recalled the shock of the diagnosis. “At first, we thought it was back pain because he fell playing badminton. “The doctor first said it was arthritis. But then his legs became swollen, and he couldn’t sleep. Later, an MRI revealed it was cancer, and after surgery, the doctors told us he would be paralysed.” Discharged from hospital yesterday just in time for the results announcement, Fernandez continues to receive treatment amidst recurrent fevers and kidney issues. “He still wants to continue studying. He is strong. He really keeps going,” said Roselind. Fernandez’s schooling has been heavily disrupted. He missed out on the 2023 academic year, and only managed to keep up with half of 2024, before returning in 2025 while juggling medical appointments. He relied on online tuition and self-study to keep up. “If I wanted to study, I would put on music. It gives me the (right) vibe. If I feel it’s hard to study, I remind myself that others also find it hard. “Some can’t even write. I tell myself, it can’t just be me who has it hard. Other people (also struggle).” Support from his school proved invaluable to the journey. “Everyone here is very supportive; my teachers and classmates, they’ve all been very kind to me. My teachers even built a ramp so I could reach my classroom, which wasn’t wheelchair friendly. “The principal moved my classroom downstairs and allowed me to eat in class during recess. My friends would help buy food for me. I’m very grateful.” Fernandez hopes to pursue interior design at Universiti Teknologi Mara. His message to future SPM candidates is simple but heartfelt: “Never give up. If you give up, you will feel down. Life is difficult for everyone. Struggle first, comfort later.”
WEDNESDAY | APR 1, 20264 READ OUR HERE/thesun Malaysian PaperMalaysians urged to brace for potential energy crisisSETIA ALAM: The government has urged Malaysians to brace for a potential crisis as global tensions escalate, saying ongoing geopolitical conflicts could destabilise energy supply and push up costs. Transport Minister Anthony Loke said the conflict in the Middle East has triggered widespread disruption across energy markets, and Malaysians should not be lulled into complacency although the country has yet to experience direct shortages. “Even though we do not feel it in our day-to-day life, the world is facing a global crisis. We must condition everyone that we are actually in a crisis.” He added that rising global energy costs and supply pressures have forced some countries into emergency measures due to fuel shortages. “This is not a laughing or joking matter. It is a very, very serious matter because the war in the Middle East has gone on for more than a month.” While Malaysia’s fuel supply remains stable for now, Loke said global instability could still disrupt supply chains. He also said the government is focused on maintaining stability, which is projected to continue until May, while urging Malaysians to curb unnecessary consumption. “Although currently our lights are on and petrol stations are still normal, we cannot take things for granted.” Loke also urged more efficient travel habits, including using public transport and reducing non-essential trips. Companies are encouraged to promote carpooling and energysaving practices. He added that the government is open to expanding carpooling in the e-hailing sector to help offset rising transport costs. “The policy would enable drivers to pick up multiple passengers heading in the same direction, allowing fares to be shared. “We do allow e-hailing operators to implement carpool systems; if two to three passengers share a ride, they could split the cost.” He also said most current e-hailing trips involve a single passenger, driving up costs. “If one passenger bears the full cost, of course it is expensive. But if passengers share, the cost could be reduced,” Loke said, emphasising that participation would remain optional. The government continues to provide targeted fuel subsidies to e-hailing drivers, including up to 800 litres per month. On food consumption, Loke highlighted that Malaysia currently has sufficient supplies of chicken and eggs, urging the public to reduce waste and make better use of available protein sources. “Egg is not only cheap and affordable, but right now we have an abundance of supply in Malaysia,” he said, adding that food wastage imposes a “double cost” on the country, both from the wasted food and disposal expenses. – By Qirana Nabilla Mohd RashidiGovt will not cap airline ticket prices, says LokeSETIA ALAM: Transport Minister Anthony Loke yesterday said the government will not cap airline ticket prices despite soaring fares, adding that that any attempt to do so could backfire and worsen flight availability. Speaking at a mock-cheque presentation ceremony at SMJK Chan Wa, he said aviation pricing is dictated by free market forces and must reflect operational realities. “If we control the price until it cannot cover the cost, airlines will stop flying. When supply drops, prices will only go higher.” He acknowledged that while no aviation services have been disrupted yet, airlines are under mounting pressure from rising jet fuel costs. “So far, there’s no disruption, but all logistics and transport sectors are facing very tough challenges right now.” He said airlines are seeing sharp increases in fuel expenses, forcing them to reassess operations. He added that some carriers have informed the government they may rationalise flights, particularly on routes with low passenger demand. “If the load factor is too low, they have to cut some flights to make operations more efficient,” he said, describing the measure as temporary. He also said the fuel surcharges would be applied only to new ticket purchases to offset rising costs. “If you bought your ticket earlier, the price remains the same – airlines cannot charge you again.” Loke said carriers absorbed higher costs during the recent festive season, honouring tickets purchased months in advance. “Although costs increased considerably, all flights went ahead and airlines had to bear the risk.” However, he said such cost absorption is unsustainable. “If you buy a ticket today, there will be a fuel surcharge. This cannot be avoided.” He also emphasised the broader economic importance of keeping flights running, particularly for tourism. “If aviation does not operate, tourists cannot enter, hotels suffer and the economy will feel the impact.” On the shipping sector, he said surcharges are also expected to be passed to shippers and customers amid rising operational costs, similar to aviation. “The government is looking at ways to ensure the surcharges are more systematic and better regulated.” Loke said the Malaysian Shipowners’ Association (Masa) had presented its views to the National Economic Action Council, calling for clearer governance of surcharge mechanisms. Regarding maritime concerns in the Middle East, he confirmed that Malaysian vessels have received clearance to transit the Strait of Hormuz safely, following assurances from Iran. “As far as we are concerned, we have received clearance and support from the Iranian government to ensure the safe passage of our ships,” he said, adding that some vessels are currently anchored but passage would continue once conditions allow. In other developments, he said the government is not halting development projects despite external economic pressures, including potential disruptions linked to geopolitical tensions. He said most major projects, particularly those driven by the private sector such as the Port Klang third terminal project, would continue. “The government’s approach is to prioritise rather than stop projects to ensure maximum economic benefit. “The prime minister’s key directive is not to stop projects, but to reprioritise, ensuring those that bring tangible growth are implemented first.” Loke emphasised that no budget cuts have been made at this stage, although the government is closely monitoring developments. Recently, the Cabinet approved the development of a third container terminal at Port Klang in Pulau Carey, led by the Selangor government through a special purpose vehicle involving private investment. The project forms part of long-term efforts to strengthen Malaysia’s position as a regional logistics hub and expand port capacity amid rising trade volumes. The Transport Ministry will act as regulator to ensure orderly implementation, while private investment will fund construction and operation of the terminal. – By Qirana Nabilla Mohd RashidiSchool receives RM1 million donation SETIA ALAM: SMJK Chan Wa in Seremban, Negeri Sembilan, will soon see a major infrastructure upgrade after receiving a RM1 Loke (third from left) on stage with Lim (second from left), Oh (fourth from left) and Tan (fifth from left) during the ceremony at SMJK Chan Wa. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUNoFunds to significantly aid in expanding facilities: Transport ministerŰ BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI [email protected] donation to support the construction of a new four-storey building, which will house modern classrooms and a library. Speaking at the mock-cheque presentation yesterday, Transport Minister Anthony Loke hailed the contribution as a prime example of private sector support for education. He said the funds would significantly aid the school in expanding its facilities. “I would like to thank Tan Sri Dr Lim Wee Chai for his generosity and also Tan Sri Vincent Tan for contributing to Chan Wa School. “This is a substantial and meaningful donation that will help the school build a new facility.” Also present at the ceremony were University of Cyberjaya pro chancellor Tan Sri Datuk Dr R. Palan, Sports Toto Bhd chairman Datuk Seri Robin Tan and SMJK Chan Wa Board of Governors chairman Datuk Oh Kok Khim. “Every sen spent to upgrade our education facilities is an investment in our future and in the next generation,” Loke added, emphasising that education is crucial for long-term stability and peace in a world increasingly marked by conflict and uncertainty. For Top Glove Malaysia executive chairman Tan Sri Dr Lim Wee Chai, the donation responds to the school’s growing enrolment demand, a reflection of public confidence in its academic standards despite limited space and resources. “SMJK Chan Wa is a well-established school with strong academic and co-curricular results. “The demand to enter the school remains high every year, which tells us one thing: people trust the school.” Lim described this as a “good problem,” signalling growth that requires ongoing support to expand facilities. “With strong demand come some limitations in space and resources. “But these are good problems, just like in business. “It means the school is doing something right and needs support to grow further. “The contribution is not just about constructing a physical space, it is about creating new opportunities,” Lim said, adding that education lays the foundation for students to thrive and reach their potential. He also highlighted the importance of lifelong learning, describing work as a continuous learning process. “The mindset of continuous growth is what we hope to instil in students. “It is captured in a motto I always follow: ‘Must Know, Must Do, Must Teach’,” he said. He also spoke about five key life principles – education, discipline, wealth, time and health – underscoring that consistent practice of the simple principles could make a profound difference over time. He expressed hope that the donation would enable SMJK Chan Wa to continue providing quality education and nurturing students who contribute positively to society and the nation.
WEDNESDAY | APR 1, 20265Najib ordered to pay RM5b damages to SRCoJudge describes conduct as deliberate, calculated fraud for personal gainKUALA LUMPUR: Former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak has been ordered by the High Court to pay US$1.3 billion (RM5.25 billion) in damages to SRC International Sdn Bhd in a landmark ruling that found him guilty of breach of trust and abuse of power. It was reported that judge Datuk Ahmad Fairuz Zainol Abidin delivered the ruling after allowing a civil suit filed by SRC, which is now under new management. Najib was also ordered to pay conspiracy damages, 5% interest per annum, legal costs and any other relief the court deemed appropriate. In a judgment lasting nearly four hours, Ahmad Fairuz said Najib, as emeritus adviser, wielded “absolute power” over SRC’s key decisions, from its creation to attempts to conceal misappropriated funds. “The defendant played a pivotal role in establishing SRC as a subsidiary of 1MDB in January 2011. “He directed the transfer of SRC’s ownership from 1MDB to the minister of Finance Incorporated in 2012, removing it from 1MDB board oversight and placing SRC directly under his control as prime minister and Finance minister. “He personally communicated with the chairman of Kumpulan Wang Persaraan in 2011 before any formal board resolution regarding the first loan, showing that it was his initiative. “He caused amendments to the company’s constitution requiring his own approval as shareholder. “He directed funds to SRC and its subsidiary, structures with no legitimate investment purpose, designed solely to facilitate misappropriation and received US$120 million from these misappropriated funds into his personal accounts.” SRC was represented by Datuk Lim Chee Wee while Najib’s defence was led by Tan Sri Muhammad Shafee Abdullah. Ahmad Fairuz emphasised that Najib’s conduct went beyond negligence or poor judgment, describing it as deliberate, calculated fraud for personal gain. The court held that Najib is liable as a constructive trustee over SRC’s misappropriated assets and must return the funds along with any profits derived. Najib must repay US$1.18 billion in misappropriated company funds and an additional US$120 million in compensation. The court also dismissed Najib’s third-party claims against former SRC directors Datuk Suboh Md Yassin, Datuk Mohammed Azhar Osman Khairuddin, Datuk Che Abdullah @ Rashidi Che Omar, Datuk Shahrol Azral Ibrahim Halmi and Tan Sri Ismee Ismail, ruling that his claims were merely an attempt to shift liability onto them. SRC filed the suit on May 7, 2021, against Najib and six former directors, alleging that he had abused his position and obtained personal benefit while serving as emeritus adviser from May 1, 2012 to March 4, 2019. Najib, 72, has been serving his sentence at Kajang Prison since Aug 23, 2022, following his conviction for misappropriating RM42 million in SRC funds.Najib must repay US$1.18 billion in misappropriated company funds and an additional US$120 million in compensation. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUNŰ BY THE SUN TEAM [email protected] protection for gig workers officially enforcedPUTRAJAYA: Malaysia has officially rewritten the rules of the gig economy, with the enforcement of the Gig Workers Act 2025 (Act 872) yesterday, a landmark move that grants legal protection to gig workers and positions the country as a regional trailblazer in the digital workforce. Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan (pic) noted that the Act provides essential safeguards while maintaining the flexibility that defines gig work. The legislation is expected to benefit about 1.64 million gig workers, offering clearer service agreements, structured dispute resolution, social security coverage via the Social Security Organisation (Socso), and occupational health and safety protections. “Today, Malaysia takes the lead in shaping the future of work in the region,” he said at a press conference. “Unlike Singapore, Indonesia and the Philippines, which are rolling out protections gradually or limiting them to specific sectors, Malaysia has introduced a legal framework spanning all gig industries.” Under the Act, gig workers are defined as Malaysian citizens or permanent residents who enter agreements with contract entities, whether platform-based or not, and are paid for services rendered. “The Act is not confined to e-hailing or delivery workers alone. “It also protects non-platform gig workers across sectors such as performing arts, translation, journalism and personal care, ensuring alignment with government policies.” Ramanan addressed concerns on coverage, stressing that the Act allows for expansion of the gig workforce definition over time. “Under Section 110 of Act 872, we can add new categories of workers whenever needed. There is flexibility and no sector will be left out.” A cornerstone of the Act is the Gig Consultative Council, a tripartite platform bringing together government representatives, gig workers and contract entities. The first council meeting is scheduled for Friday, a week after the Act’s enforcement, with minimum income rates for gig workers as its inaugural agenda. The council will also advise the government on sectoral standards, policy matters and recommendations grounded in market research. Twenty-six members from diverse backgrounds have been appointed. Ramanan also outlined complaint and dispute resolution mechanisms. “Gig workers can now lodge complaints about pay, account suspensions or breaches of service agreements through an online portal at https://eaduan-gig.mohr.gov.my or via any ministry office under the ‘No Wrong Door’ policy. “Complaints will be reviewed and forwarded to relevant agencies, with a target resolution of 21 working days,” he said. For unresolved disputes, the Act establishes a Gig Workers Tribunal, which is an independent forum providing professional, impartial and speedy resolution. Hearings will be held at existing Human Resource Ministry facilities, including labour and industrial courts and Socso offices nationwide. “Through the enforcement of the Gig Workers Act 2025, the government demonstrates its commitment to legal protection for all workers, including those in the gig economy. “This legislation lays a strong foundation for a fairer, more inclusive future of work in Malaysia, and may serve as a model for the region and beyond.”Ű BY HARITH KAMAL [email protected] period issued for platform providersPUTRAJAYA: Gig platform providers will be given a three to six-month adjustment period to integrate the Social Security Organisation (Socso) system into their apps, the government announced yesterday. The move comes as concerns surfaced over tight timelines ahead of the enforcement of the Gig Workers Act 2025 yesterday. Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan said platform operators had been given early notice and multiple engagement sessions to prepare for the transition. “We have given them notice since March 2025. We have also held numerous sessions with them to discuss the matter.” He acknowledged the technical challenges of the new requirements and emphasised the importance of a reasonable adaptation period. “In everything we do, when there is change, we need time to adapt. As long as you are taking the necessary steps, which we are monitoring closely, it is perfectly fine to take that three to six months moratorium.” He said authorities would not penalise companies immediately for incomplete compliance. “We are not going to go on a witch hunt and immediately go after you if you are not doing it tomorrow. The government has provided ample time. “We are being reasonable by allowing this period. But once the Act comes into play, it has to be enforced and taken seriously.” Industry players, from platform operators to gig workers, had previously expressed concerns that the Act was rushed through Parliament and could hinder, rather than support, the growth of the gig economy. Addressing claims that only major players were consulted, Ramanan added that Socso has been engaging a wide range of platform providers individually since March 2025. The sessions covered system integration, including app programming interfaces (APIs), technical processes and operational readiness, ensuring smooth compliance with the law. Under the new system, gig workers’ Socso contributions will be calculated automatically based on completed tasks, with platform providers deducting 1.25% from each assignment and channeling the contributions directly through integrated APIs. Workers can register across multiple platforms but all contributions will be consolidated under one account to ensure streamlined social security coverage. Gig workers will also have the option to select monthly income plans ranging between RM1,050 and RM3,950, providing protection suited to their earnings. Coverage includes medical benefits, temporary and permanent disability protection, dependent benefits, and funeral management assistance. – BYHARITH KAMAL
WEDNESDAY | APR 1, 20266SUBSCRIBE TOtheSun TODAY!SUBSCRIBE NOW! Enjoy daily access to: The latest local & global newsTop entertainment & sportsstoriesAll in 32 Full Colour pages Stay informed 7 days a week! Justreal news, straight to you.ONLY RM 1 PER COPY! ONLY RM 1PER COPY!‘Radiation from processing plant within safe limits’PETALING JAYA: Radiation from Lynas Malaysia’s operations in Gebeng, Kuantan has remained within safe regulatory limits for the public since the plant began operating in 2012, the Atomic Energy Department has confirmed. It added that worker exposure has stayed within permitted levels under controlled conditions. In a statement to theSun, the department said continuous monitoring since 2012 showed that public exposure remained below one millisievert (mSv) per year while workers were kept within the regulatory limit of 20mSv per year. “The higher limit for workers reflects controlled occupational exposure standards while the lower threshold applies to the general public.” It noted that its assessment of Lynas’s licence renewal was based on continuous evaluation over the validity of its previous licence, from March 3, 2023 to March 2, 2026, rather than a one-off review. The evaluation considered compliance with the Atomic Energy Licensing Act 1984 (Act 304), subsidiary legislation, licence conditions, International Atomic Energy Agency standards and international best practices. “Based on these assessments, Lynas has complied with Act 304, subsidiary legislation and licence conditions,” it said. The department emphasised that radiation monitoring data, including real-time readings, The Atomic Energy Department emphasised that enforcement powers remain in place should Lynas fail to comply. – SYED AZAHAR SYED OSMAN/THESUNoEvaluation considers compliance with Act 304, subsidiary legislation, international best practices: Atomic Energy DepartmentŰ BY FAIZ RUZMAN [email protected] publicly accessible via the Environmental Radiation Monitoring System platform. Lynas is under continuous oversight, with inspections, radiation measurements and environmental sampling conducted inside and outside the plant. This includes sampling soil, water, air, flora and fauna, and tracking progress in meeting licence conditions, such as ceasing production of water leach purification (WLP) residue by 2031 and reducing existing residue to below one becquerel per gram. Meanwhile, the Environment Department separately monitors environmental factors, including air and water quality, groundwater, scheduled waste and noise under the Environmental Quality Act 1974. The Atomic Energy Department emphasised that enforcement powers remain in place should Lynas fail to comply. Under Act 304, the director-general can suspend operations or revoke licences in cases of non-compliance. Breaches may also result in a maximum fine of RM500,000 or up to 10 years’ jail, depending on the severity of the offence. Addressing public concern, the department said it is committed to ensuring Lynas’s operations pose no risk to workers, nearby communities or the environment. “Continuous monitoring and enforcement are carried out to ensure Lynas operates safely and does not affect workers, the public and the environment in relation to ionising radiation.” Yesterday, Lynas said its residue management systems in Gebeng meet Malaysian and international standards. The company maintained that no incident harmful to public health or the environment has occurred since operations began in 2012. Lynas added that it has spent the past three years collaborating with the Atomic Energy Department and academic institutions in Malaysia and Australia on research to remove thorium from WLP residue. Laboratory and pilot plant stages have been completed, with an industrial-scale trial as the next step.
WEDNESDAY | APR 1, 20267Myanmar general elected vice-presidentNAYPYIDAW: State Administration Council chairman Min Aung Hlaing was elected a vice-president by the lower house yesterday. Myanmar’s former commander in chief Min Aung Hlaing has led Myanmar since 2021, when he ousted the government of Aung San Suu Kyi. His election sets in motion a process for him to exchange his uniform for civilian clothes, as the country’s parliament selects three vice-presidents, one of whom is then chosen as president. On the lower house floor yesterday, MPs queued up at a row of tables and dropped their ballots into one of three clear-sided boxes. “The lower house of elected MPs announces Senior General Min Aung Hlaing as a vicepresident,” lower house speaker Khin Yi said after the vote. Min Aung Hlaing received 247 of the 260 votes, a parliament official said. The upper house elected Nan Ni Ni Aye, a regional MP from Karen state with the militaryaligned Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP), as another vice-president. A third vice-president will be chosen by the military. A parliament-wide vote to select which of the three will be elevated to president is expected this week. The USDP – led and staffed by many retired officers – is entrenched in parliament after winning 80% of elected seats, and it is expected the new government will march in lockstep with the top brass. Min Aung Hlaing is expected to manage a carefully orchestrated transition to becoming president, after he handed over the reins of the military to loyalist Ye Win Oo on Monday. – AFPBrunei imposes fuel tank ruleBANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: Oil-rich Brunei will stop foreign-registered vehicles with fuel tanks less than three-quarters full from entering the country from today to conserve fuel supplies, its energy department said in a statement. Foreign motorists will only be allowed to buy Shell V-Power petrol or diesel from stations selling the fuels at current market prices, the statement released late on Monday said. The requirement for threequarter full tanks will also apply to Brunei-registered vehicles reentering the country twice or more within 24 hours, the department said, adding that petrol stations have been asked to step up monitoring of vehicle registrations. Brunei is facing soaring subsidy costs as it bids to keep pump prices among the lowest in the region, with oil prices surging. Differences in retail pump prices between Malaysia and Brunei have sometimes encouraged fuel smuggling, with motorists travelling across the border to buy cheaper fuel in Brunei. – ReutersJakarta trims meals programmeJAKARTA: Indonesia will make cuts to its free school meals programme as it seeks to set aside billions of dollars to counteract budget pressures brought on by the Middle East war and soaring oil prices. The programme, which feeds an estimated 60 million children and pregnant and breastfeeding women at a cost of nearly a tenth of the annual budget, is President Prabowo Subianto’s signature project. At a Cabinet meeting over the weekend, ministers and Prabowo decided to trim the programme from six days a week to five in primary and secondary schools from yesterday. In regions with high malnutrition rates, meals will remain available on Saturdays, when many Indonesian schools are open. The move will save “around 40 trillion rupiah (RM9.3 billion),” said Nanik Sudaryati Deyang, deputy head of the National Nutrition Agency. The cut may be reviewed if conditions change. Launched in January last year, the initiative was touted by the government as a way to tackle a malnutrition and stunting crisis in the country of 284 million people. The programme has a target of ultimately feeding 83 million people, but it has come under the spotlight after thousands of recipients contracted food poisoning. Earlier this month, presidential spokesman Prasetyo Hadi said the government was seeking to set aside as much as 80 trillion rupiah to shield its economy from the Middle East fallout. Measures under consideration include ordering government workers to work from home one day a week, cutting back on official travel and encouraging bicycle, electronic car and public transport use to preserve valuable fuel. Analysts said savings from trimming the free meals programme were not nearly enough if the government intends to meet its fiscal deficit limit. “Without changes in big budget (programmes), I don’t see steps such as cutting back on free meals or one day work-from-home per week, as adequate to tackle” the deficit, said Deni Friawan, a researcher at the Centre for Strategic and International Studies. – AFPSumatra, East Kalimantan see dramatic forest lossJAKARTA: Forest loss in Indonesia surged by 66% last year, hitting its highest rate in eight years as a result of weak environmental protections and an ambitious food and energy self-sufficiency drive. The archipelago, made up of thousands of islands, has some of the world’s thickest forests and most biodiverse regions, but it leans heavily on mining and plantations to support its US$1.4 trillion (RM5.6 trillion) economy, which is the biggest in Southeast Asia. Auriga Nusantara, a think tank focusing on forestry and biodiversity in Indonesia, used high-quality satellite images combined with on-the-ground visits to 49,000ha of forest across 16 provinces. It found that 433,751ha of forest was cleared last year, a dramatic jump from 261,575ha in 2024, said Auriga chairman Timer Manurung . “The surge in deforestation in 2025 is truly distressing, taking Indonesia back to a time when ... (it) was at its highest,” he said, noting that the highest rate of deforestation before 2025 was in 2016, when more than a million hectares were cleared. Manurung identified President Prabowo Subianto’s food security programme as one of the main contributing factors. The programme aims to boost domestic output of key agricultural products like rice and reduce dependence on imports. The government allocated 20.6 million hectares of forest areas for food-, energy- and water-related programmes last year, 43% of which was natural forest. More than 78,000ha of the “food reserve forest” were cleared last year, an area the size of New York City. As it cleared parts of provinces in Borneo to make room for rice fields, Indonesia said last year that it had achieved self-sufficiency in rice production. “They are gambling, they are speculating ... it’s peat land and not suitable for rice,” Manurung said. Prabowo’s bioenergy push also had a heavy impact, with areas converted to industrial forest to produce biomass and another 37,910ha cleared inside Indonesia’s sprawling oil palm concessions. An additional 41,162ha of forest were converted into coal, gold and nickel concessions, Manurung said. “The presidency is continuing SINGAPORE MATRIX ... The facade of a public housing estate in Singapore shows a television test pattern. –REUTERSPICthe pattern of former president Joko Widodo, which uses the so-called national strategic projects and Omnibus Law (Job Creation law) that weaken environmental protection,” he said. Provinces in Borneo saw forests shrink the fastest last year, with Sumatra and Papua ranking second and third. East Kalimantan, the location of Indonesia’s new capital, was the hardest-hit province. Three Sumatran provinces affected by floods and landslides last year showed “dramatic increases in deforestation” with Aceh rising by 426%, North Sumatra by 281% and West Sumatra by 1,034% compared to 2024. The government must improve regulation to ensure that natural forest is better protected and should also expand conservation areas outside forest estates, Manurung said. – ReutersThai king endorses new CabinetBANGKOK: King Maha Vajiralongkorn has endorsed Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s new Cabinet, according to a notice in the Royal Gazette yesterday. The approval clears the way for the Cabinet to be sworn in before the king ahead of the delivery of a policy statement to parliament, after which ministers can formally take office. The line-up keeps Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas and Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun in their posts, as expected. Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow also remains in position. Former Industry Minister Akanat Promphan replaces former PTT chief executive Auttapol Rerkpiboon as energy minister. Anutin said over the weekend that the new government would be in place by April. – ReutersoWeak environmental protections blamed
WEDNESDAY | APR 1, 20268/thesundailyFOLLOW ON FACEBOOK/Malaysian PaperTech giants under probeSYDNEY: Australia threatened yesterday to sue social media giants for allegedly flouting a ban on under16s, as its internet regulator disclosed it is investigating some of the biggest platforms for suspected noncompliance. Three months after the ban came into effect, the eSafety Commissioner said it was investigating Meta’s Instagram and Facebook, Google’s YouTube, Snapchat and TikTok for possible breaches of the law. Communications Minister Anika Wells said the government was gathering evidence “so that the eSafety Commissioner can go to the Federal Court and win”. “We have spent the summer building that evidence base of all the stories that no doubt you have all heard ... about how kids are getting around that,” Wells told reporters in Canberra. Governments are watching Australia’s moves to rein in the tech giants, with many considering similar regulation to protect children from harms including bullying and bodyshaming. The legal threat is a striking change of tone from a government which had hailed tech giants’ shows of cooperation when the ban went live in December. After an early claim the companies had deactivated 4.7 million suspected underage accounts, the government has faced daily headlines of teenagers evading restrictions or simply keeping their accounts without being asked their age. Meta and Snap said they were committed to complying with the ban, and a Meta spokesperson added the government’s own trial of ageassurance technology found “natural error margins” around the 16 age cutoff. TikTok declined to comment while a Google spokesperson was not immediately available for comment. Under the Australian law, platforms must show they are taking reasonable steps to keep out underage users or face fines of up to A$49.5 million ($34 million) per breach, something eSafety would need to pursue in a civil court. The regulator previously said it would only take enforcement action in cases of systemic noncompliance. But in its first comprehensive compliance report since the ban took effect, eSafety said measures taken by the platforms were substandard and it would make a decision about next steps by mid-year. – ReutersNasa Moon launch set for takeoffCAPE CANAVERAL: Nasa began its two-day countdown on Monday ahead of what is slated to be its first crewed moonshot in more than half a century, a long-anticipated loop around Earth’s satellite that is to pave the way for future exploration. The first window to launch from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida opens today at 6.24pm (Thursday 6.24am in Malaysia). “The vehicle is ready, the system is ready. The crew is ready,” said Amit Kshatriya, the US space agency’s associate administrator. “Behind this flight stands a campaign,” he said, noting recently announced plans including constructing a lunar base. If the launch is cancelled or delayed, there are more liftoff opportunities through April 6. As of Monday evening, Nasa officials voiced confidence that engineering operations and final preparations were going smoothly. “We’ll fly when this hardware is ready,” said launch director Charlie Blackwell-Thompson. “But certainly all indications are right now we are in excellent, excellent shape.” The four astronauts set to carry out the Moon voyage – Americans Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover and Christina Koch along with Canadian colleague Jeremy Hansen – are in quarantine ahead of their journey. Nasa officials said they would have the opportunity to have dinner with their families. The odyssey will mark a series of firsts: the first time a woman, a person of colour and a non-American will venture on a Moon mission. It is also the inaugural crewed flight of Nasa’s new lunar rocket, dubbed SLS. The mammoth orange-and-white rocket is designed to allow the United States to repeatedly return to the Moon in years to come, with the goal of establishing a permanent base. – AFP(From left) Wiseman, Glover, Koch and Hansen visiting on Monday the Artemis II rocket and Orion spacecraft at Cape Canaveral in Florida . – AFPPIC‘Enduring resolution rooted in dialogue, diplomacy and mutual respect’NEW DELHI: Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama warned yesterday that violence only results in more conflict, urging peace as conflict rages in the Middle East and Ukraine. “History has shown us time and again that violence only begets more violence and is never a lasting foundation for peace,” he wrote in a letter yesterday. “An enduring resolution to conflict, including the ones we see in the Middle East or between Russia and Ukraine, must be rooted in dialogue, diplomacy and mutual respect – approached with the understanding that, at the deepest level, we are all brothers and sisters,” the Nobel Peace Prize laureate said. “I urge for and pray that the violence and conflicts may soon come to an end.” The charismatic 90-year-old, who lives in exile in India, said he backed the message of peace that Pope Leo XIV gave during his Palm Sunday address. “His call for the laying down of arms and the renunciation of violence resonated profoundly with me, as it speaks to the very essence of what all major religions teach,” the Dalai Lama said. “Whether we look to Christianity, Buddhism, Islam, Hinduism, Judaism or any of the world’s spiritual traditions, the message is fundamentally the same: love, compassion, tolerance and selfdiscipline. “Violence finds no true home in any of these teachings.” – AFPGoogle, Meta face summonsesJAKARTA: Indonesia issued summons letters to Google and Meta over their failure to comply with a social media ban for under-16s that entered into force over the weekend, the communications minister said. In a video posted on Instagram late Monday, minister Meutya Hafid said “the government is sending summons letters” to Meta, which owns Facebook, Instagram and Threads, as well as to Google, which oversees YouTube, adding they “violated Indonesian law”. The summonses were issued “as part of the application of administrative sanctions in accordance with the applicable provisions”, the minister said. App-addicted Indonesia began enforcing a social media ban for users under the age of 16 on Saturday, o‘Failure to comply with teen ban’ measures to protect teens from online threats, is investigating Facebook, TikTok and YouTube for possible breaches. Meutya said over the weekend there would be “no room for compromise regarding compliance”. In Monday’s video, she accused Google and Meta of having opposed the new regulations “from the very beginning”. She named TikTok and Roblox as examples of platforms not yet fully compliant but “making efforts”. They will receive warning letters. “We will focus on working with platforms that have the goodwill to respect Indonesia, not only as a digital market, but also (by) committing to Indonesian laws and legal instruments for child protection,” she said. Indonesia, with its population of over 284 million, boasts among the most social media users in the world, including about 70 million children under the age of 16. “We understand this is not easy. Indonesia is indeed one of the most active countries in the digital space, with average scrolling time of 7-8 hours per day,” said the minister. She urged parents and children to help the government monitor compliance and report companies that flout the law. – AFPciting threats from online pornography, cyberbullying and internet addiction, as concerns grow globally over the impact of social media on children’s well-being. Australia, which in December became the first country to introduce
WEDNESDAY | APR 1, 20269BEIRUT: Three UN peacekeepers from Indonesia were killed in two separate incidents in southern Lebanon after a bloody weekend in which Lebanese journalists and medics were killed in Israeli strikes. Two peacekeepers were killed on Monday after an explosion from an unknown origin destroyed their vehicle near Bani Hayyan in south Lebanon, the UN peacekeeping force Unifil said in a statement. Two other soldiers were wounded in the blast. Another Indonesian soldier was killed on Sunday when a projectile exploded near one of the group’s positions close to the Lebanese village of Adchit al-Qusayr. Another peacekeeper was critically injured. The death on Sunday was the first among the UN’s peacekeeping force in the new war between Israel and Hezbollah. “We are investigating them as two separate incidents,” said Unifil spokesperson Kandice Ardiel. In response to the first death, Indonesia’s Foreign Ministry said on Monday the deceased peacekeeper was one of its citizens and three others were injured. Indonesia condemned the incident and said any harm to peacekeepers is unacceptable, while reiterating its condemnation “of Israel’s attacks in southern Lebanon”. Foreign Minister Sugiono called yesterday for an emergency UN Security Council meeting and “for a swift, thorough and transparent investigation” into the “heinous attack” after speaking with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. Israel’s military said yesterday it is aware of the reports and they are being reviewed thoroughly to determine whether they resulted from Hezbollah or the military’s activity. Guterres said attacks on peacekeepers are grave violations of international humanitarian law and may amount to war crimes. “We strongly condemn these unacceptable incidents, peacekeepers must never be a target,” the UN peacekeeping chief Jean-Pierre Lacroix said on Monday. Unifil is stationed in southern Lebanon to monitor hostilities along the demarcation line with Israel, an area that is at the heart of clashes between Israeli troops and Hezbollah fighters. – ReutersIran military installations hitTEHRAN: Iranian media reported yesterday that initial investigations indicated strikes in central Iran had hit some “military sites”, without specifying the locations. “Initial investigations indicate that some military locations in Isfahan were targeted,” the Fars news agency quoted Akbar Salehi, a security official at the governor’s office in Isfahan province, as saying. The official also said the extent of the damage and any casualties were not immediately clear. Isfahan province is a key hub for Iran’s defence industry and hosts major nuclear facilities, including Natanz. The nuclear sites were targeted during a 12-day conflict with Israel last June, as well as in the current war that began on Feb 28, according to Iranian officials. The province is home to several major military bases, including the Badr airbase, the 8th Shekari airbase, and the 4th Air Force base. Strikes during the conflict have also hit civilian and historical infrastructure, including the Isfahan University of Technology. Several heritage sites listed by Unesco have been reported damaged in Isfahan’s Naqsh-e Jahan Square, including the Safavid-era Abbasi Jameh Mosque and Ali Qapu Palace. Hassan Fartousi, secretarygeneral of the Iranian National Commission for Unesco, told a press conference yesterday that damage in the province was “huge”. Industrial facilities were also affected, with strikes hitting the Mobarakeh Steel Company complex. Video footage verified by AFP showed at least two massive explosions and columns of smoke in Isfahan. State media reported the Grand Husseiniya, a Shia religious centre, was damaged in Zanjan in the northwest. Fars news agency reported explosions and power outages in parts of Tehran, where residents painted a picture of a city that is still clinging to some routine despite tight security. “When I make it to a cafe table, even for a few minutes, I can almost believe the world hasn’t ended,” said Fatemeh, a 27-year-old dental assistant. “And then I go back home, back to the reality of living through war, with all its darkness and weight.” Explosions were heard in Dubai and near Erbil airport in northern Iraq, and sirens sounded in Jerusalem and two people were wounded when air defence intervened to intercept a drone near the Saudi Arabian capital Riyadh, civil defence said. Israeli emergency services said eight people received minor injuries from falling munitions fragments in Bnei Brak, near Tel Aviv. At least 10 blasts were heard in the Jerusalem area after missile launches from Iran were detected. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, President Donald Trump’s partner in attacking Iran, said more than half of the operation’s military aims had been achieved, but both leaders have refused to put a timeline. – AFPB R I E F SITALY REFUSES USE OF SICILY AIR BASE ROME: Italy has denied permission for US military aircraft to land at the Sigonella air base in Sicily before flying to the Middle East. Daily Corriere della Serareported “some US bombers” had been due to land at the base in eastern Sicily. A source did not specify how many aircraft were involved or when Rome declined to give permission. Corriere della Sera said permission was not granted as the US had not sought authorisation and Italy’s military leadership was not consulted, as required under treaties on the use of US military installations in the country. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s government has said it would seek parliamentary authorisation should any such requests be made. – Reuters ARCHAEOLOGISTS CUT SHORT IRAQ DIGS BAGHDAD: Archaeologists in Iraq have been forced by drone and rocket attacks to cut short expeditions. They said some of the projects had been planned for years but their teams have had to evacuate ancient sites. Under normal circumstances, around 60 international teams would have been working on digs, a government official said, but “all of these missions have left Iraq”. State Board of Antiquities and Heritage head Ali Obeid Shalgham said security forces were the sites’ “true guarantors”. He said the country is installing “blue shields”, nicknamed “the Red Cross of heritage”, at the sites. The presence of foreign teams is “crucial”, said Aqeel al-Mansrawi, an Iraqi landscape archaeologist. “They work to protect heritage through conservation,” he said. He also emphasised the training Iraqi experts receive from foreigners. – AFPAn Israeli helicopter firing towards Lebanon on Monday. – REUTERSPICUndated image shows smoke billowing near Yazd, in central Iran. – AFPPICThree Indonesian peacekeepers killedPentagon denies trades storyWASHINGTON: A broker for US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth attempted to make a big investment in major defence companies in the weeks leading up to the US-Israeli attack on Iran, the Financial Times reported, citing three people familiar with the matter. Chief Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell said on X the story was “entirely false and fabricated” and demanded a retraction. The FT report said Hegseth’s broker at Morgan Stanley contacted BlackRock in February, about making a multimilliondollar investment in the asset manager’s Defence Industrials Active ETF, shortly before the US launched military action. According to the report, the investment discussed by Hegseth’s broker did not go ahead as the fund, which launched in May last year, was not yet available for Morgan Stanley clients to buy. The report did not say how much discretion the broker had to make investments on Hegseth’s behalf, or whether Hegseth knew what the broker was doing. “Neither Hegseth nor any of his representatives approached BlackRock about any such investment,” Parnell said. BlackRock declined to comment on the report, while Morgan Stanley did not respond to a request for comment. The report comes amid a scrutiny of trades made in financial and prediction markets ahead of President Donald Trump’s policy decisions. – ReutersoHeritage sites damaged
10WEDNESDAY | APR 1, 2026Structural ghosts in the machineTHERE is a palpable sense of economic momentum in Malaysia. As highlighted, the Madani government, since taking office in late 2022, has steered the nation through a turbulent postpandemic global landscape and can point to a resume of tangible achievements. The data tells a compelling story: GDP growth is robust and above regional averages, inflation is relatively tamed compared to many peers, unemployment is at a historic low and foreign direct investment is setting records. The aggressive pursuit of high-profile corruption cases has sent a powerful, symbolic message about governance. The strengthening of the ringgit from its lows, while partly tied to US Federal Reserve policy expectations, also reflects growing investor confidence. The commitment to fiscal consolidation and the pioneering, if cautious, move towards a progressive wage model are structurally significant reforms. On a macro level, the government’s narrative of disciplined, inclusive growth is backed by credible numbers. So, why the unyielding opposition critique? To dismiss opposition complaints as mere political noise is to misunderstand the nuanced anxieties within the Malaysian economy. The criticism persists because economic performance is not felt uniformly, and because the government faces a legacy of deep-seated challenges. First, the rakyat’s wallet: While headline inflation is low, the lived experience for many, particularly in urban and lower-middle-income brackets, is defined by stubbornly high food prices and elevated costs of services. The disconnect between GDP growth and wage growth remains a chronic issue. The progressive wage policy is a pilot, not yet a national transformation. The ringgit’s recovery is welcome, but years of depreciation have already increased the cost of imports and overseas education, leaving a scar on purchasing power. Second, structural ghosts in the machine: The opposition harps on unresolved structural weaknesses because they are real. The fiscal deficit is improving, but national debt remains high. The subsidy rationalisation plan, while economically rational, is a political lightning rod and risks exacerbating cost-of-living pressures if not perfectly calibrated. Concerns about the sustainability of the EPF withdrawal schemes and an aging population’s burden on public finances are not invented; they are legitimate long-term debates. Third, the green shoots vs harvest dichotomy: The government is rightly planting seeds – in green technology, digital infrastructure, and high-value sectors. However, these investments take years to mature. Meanwhile, traditional engines face headwinds. The opposition speaks for those still waiting for the harvest – the small businessman facing compliance costs, the farmer grappling with input prices, the youth unsure if the new jobs match their skills. Fourth, the politics of perception: Anti-corruption drives, while popular, are inevitably framed by political allegiance. Supporters see justice; opponents see selective prosecution. This colours all economic achievements. Furthermore, global uncertainty –from geopolitical tensions to China’s slowdown – provides a ready-made argument for critics who warn that external shocks could quickly unmask domestic vulnerabilities. A two-year assessment: Steady hands, but a long voyage. Evaluating the last two years, the Madani government deserves credit for stability and strategic intent. They have not shied from politically difficult reforms (subsidy rationalisation, fiscal discipline) while maintaining social spending. They have successfully attracted major investments in tech and green energy, diversifying away from pure commodity dependence. The economic management has been, by and large, competent and pragmatic. However, the true test lies ahead. The current growth is partly a recovery bounce. The next phase requires transitioning to productivity-led growth, which demands harder reforms in education, regulatory efficiency and a truly competitive business environment. The social safety net must be strengthened to cushion reform impacts. The opposition complains because that is their role in a vibrant democracy –to hold the government to account for the gaps between macro-data and microreality, and for promises yet unfulfilled. The government’s economic performance over the past two years has been solid but it is a foundation, not a finished edifice. Malaysia is on a better path but the claim it is the right path will only be validated if the current growth translates into broad-based prosperity, tangible upward mobility and resilient institutions that outlast any single administration. The numbers are promising but the kitchen-table economics for every Malaysian family will have the final say. The government must balance its justifiable celebration of achievements with a humble acknowledgment of the journey ahead, and the opposition must balance criticism with constructive policy alternatives. Only then will the economic debate elevate the nation. Prof Datuk Dr Ahmad Ibrahim is affiliated with the Tan Sri Omar Centre for STI Policy Studies at UCSI University and is an adjunct professor at the Ungku Aziz Centre for Development Studies, Universiti Malaya. Comments: [email protected]“Malaysia is on a better path but the claim it is the right path will only be validated if the current growth translates into broad-based prosperity, tangible upward mobility and resilient institutions that outlast any single administration.The government’s economic performance over the past two years has been solid but it is a foundation, not a finished edifice. – SUNPICCOMMENT by Prof Datuk Dr Ahmad Ibrahim
11WEDNESDAY | APR 1, 2026Connectivity is not merely infrastructure or trade; it is a form of power, one that enables smaller polities to remain central, adaptable and resilient within an ever changing world. – PIC FROM WIKIPEDIAPower of connectivity in maritime tradeIN Malaysia, the story of maritime power is often narrated through the rise of Melaka in the 15th century. Its diplomatic sophistication, legal traditions and global trading networks have dominated academic discourse. Yet, such a focus obscures a deeper historical trajectory of maritime connectivity on the Malay Peninsula. Centuries before Melaka, an earlier polity known today as Ancient Kedah, appeared to have been deeply engaged in the dynamics of exchange, negotiation and strategic adaptation within a complex regional system. Its experience reminds us that Malaysia’s engagement with the wider world did not begin with colonialism or early modern empires but was rooted in a far older and more enduring tradition of maritime statecraft. Ancient Kedah emerged between the second and 14th centuries CE along the northwestern coast of the Malay Peninsula, with the Bujang Valley as its economic and cultural core. At that time, the Sungai Merbok formed a broad, sheltered bay facing the Bay of Bengal and the entrance to the Straits of Melaka. River systems such as the Sungai Muda and Sungai Bujang connected the coast to resource-rich interiors, enabling movement through a landscape where dense forests and rugged terrain limited overland transport. Gunung Jerai, then situated closer to the shoreline, served as a prominent navigational landmark. Geography was not merely a passive backdrop; it constituted the foundation of Kedah’s strategic advantage. Long before Ancient Kedah appeared in Indian, Arab or Chinese sources, indigenous communities in the peninsula were already embedded in regional exchange networks. Archaeological evidence from the late prehistoric period – such as bronze drums, pottery, beads and iron objects – points to sustained interaction among coastal and riverine societies across maritime Southeast Asia. These early networks cultivated navigational knowledge, commercial experience and social openness. When foreign merchants later arrived, they encountered societies already accustomed to exchange, rather than isolated communities suddenly drawn into global trade. These developments coincided with wider transformations across Asia. From the early centuries CE, maritime commerce linking the Mediterranean, India and China expanded significantly. Advances in shipbuilding and monsoon navigation enabled sailors to move beyond cautious coasthugging routes towards more direct open-sea crossings. By the third to sixth centuries CE, this reconfigured maritime geography: older trans-peninsular routes near the Kra Isthmus declined while the Straits of Melaka emerged as the principal corridor, linking the Indian Ocean and South China Sea. This shift proved decisive for Ancient Kedah. As earlier exchange hubs waned, Kedah’s position near the entrance of the straits enabled it to rise in prominence. Its development was gradual and cumulative. Disparate coastal and riverine settlements coalesced into a network of interconnected nodes, each specialising in trade, production or ritual. This transformation coincided with a broader shift in global commerce from elite luxury goods towards bulk commodities such as ceramics, metals, forest products and beads. Ancient Kedah was well positioned to meet this demand, functioning as an entrepôt and a producer. Historical sources across Asia attest to Ancient Kedah’s importance. Early Tamil literature refers to it as a source of valued goods while Sanskrit and Buddhist texts describe it as a prosperous port. Arab geographers between the ninth and 14th centuries CE knew Ancient Kedah, often called Kalah, as a key maritime stopover rich in tin and forest products. The merchants came from Persia, Arabia and India. Notably, these accounts are ambiguous, Ancient Kedah appears variously as a port, a kingdom or a broader region depending on perspective. This ambiguity reflects the reality of a maritime polity – the influence of which was defined less by fixed borders than by shifting networks of interaction. Archaeological evidence from the Bujang Valley substantiates these accounts. Excavations have revealed iron-smelting remains, jetties, bead-making workshops, pottery assemblages, imported ceramics and Hindu-Buddhist ritual sites. These findings demonstrate that Ancient Kedah functioned as a portindustry, a site of exchange and production. Iron smelting at Sungai Batu, indicates not only technological capability but also integration into regional economic systems. Ancient Kedah was not a passive intermediary, it was an active node within wider networks of exchange, production and distribution. The cultural landscape of Ancient Kedah reflects a similarly pragmatic cosmopolitanism. Hindu and Buddhist monuments, constructed using local materials such as laterite and clay display austere yet distinctive architectural forms. While Indic religious traditions were clearly present, their adoption was hardly uniform. These practices remained concentrated in littoral and riverine zones where foreign interaction was most intense while interior communities seem to have retained indigenous belief systems. Cultural exchange was, therefore, selective, situational and spatially uneven. What emerges is not a rigidly “Indianised” society but a fluid cultural environment shaped by movement and negotiation. Identity in Ancient Kedah was relational rather than fixed, shifting across contexts, coastal and inland, ritual and commercial, local and foreign. Material culture reflects this hybridity – imported ceramics circulated alongside local pottery, Brahmi–derived scripts coexisted with oral traditions and religious architecture blended Indic cosmology with local techniques. Cosmopolitanism here was not ideological but lived, embedded in everyday interactions across diverse communities. Political organisation mirrored this fluidity. Ancient Kedah did not resemble a centralised territorial state. Instead, it functioned as a polycentric maritime polity composed of coastal and riverine nodes linked through trade, ritual and alliance. Authority rested less on territorial control than on the capacity to manage flows of goods, people and knowledge. Legitimacy emerged through relationships rather than boundaries. This structure allowed Ancient Kedah to adapt to shifting trade patterns, fluctuating demand and changing regional dynamics over more than a millennium. From a structural or realist perspective, Ancient Kedah operated within a system analogous to what international relations theory describes as anarchy. No overarching authority governed the maritime world –multiple powers interacted within a competitive environment marked by uncertainty. In such a system, survival depended on positioning rather than domination. Ancient Kedah’s strategy of engaging multiple partners, across India, China and the wider Indian Ocean resembles a form of balancing behaviour. Yet, unlike classical realist models centred on military power, Ancient Kedah’s balancing was achieved through connectivity that diversified relationships to avoid dependence on any single external actor. This insight resonates strongly with contemporary geopolitics. Today’s Indo-Pacific is similarly characterised by strategic competition among major powers, particularly the United States and China. Southeast Asia, including Malaysia, occupies a position not unlike Ancient Kedah, situated at a critical junction of maritime routes and economic flows. Regional states must navigate an environment where alignment with one power risks vulnerability while disengagement risks irrelevance. The response, as seen in Asean centrality and Malaysia’s foreign policy posture, is not rigid alignment but strategic hedging, maintaining multiple and multifaceted partnerships while preserving autonomy. Yet, structural conditions alone cannot explain Ancient Kedah’s historical trajectory. Agency-based perspectives remind us that outcomes are shaped by decisions made within constraints. The organisation of specialised nodes, industrial centres such as Sungai Batu, ritual site such as Bukit Choras and trading settlements across the Bujang Valley, reflects deliberate choices rather than automatic responses to geography. Local elites, merchants and other actors actively shaped Ancient Kedah’s role within regional networks. These decisions parallel modern foreign policy processes, where states respond to domestic considerations and external pressures. Ancient Kedah’s development was thus the product of continuous negotiation between opportunity and constraint, mediated by actors across multiple levels. At the same time, constructivist perspectives illuminate the importance of norms, identities and shared meanings. The selective adoption of Indic religious and cultural forms suggests that interaction was shaped not only by material incentives but by evolving social understandings. The “international” environment of Ancient Kedah was as much social as it was material, structured by shared symbols, rituals and practices that facilitated exchange. Identity was not imposed but negotiated and power was exercised not only through control of resources but through participation in shared cultural frameworks. Taken together, these perspectives reveal that Ancient Kedah’s success emerged from the interplay between structure, agency and meaning. Its ability to remain central within shifting maritime networks was not simply a function of geography or material capability but of its capacity to operate across these dimensions simultaneously. Connectivity, in this sense, was not a passive condition but an active strategy, one that balanced structural constraints, human decision-making and socially constructed norms. This framework offers a deeper historical lens through which to understand Malaysia’s contemporary foreign policy. In an increasingly multipolar world, Malaysia operates within structural constraints defined by major power competition, global supply chains and strategic chokepoints. Yet, it retains agency in shaping its engagements, pursuing diversified partnerships, participating in multilateral institutions and advancing cultural diplomacy. At the same time, its commitment to Asean norms, dialogue and coexistence reflects a constructivist dimension rooted in shared regional identity. Ancient Kedah thus provides more than historical precedent that offers conceptual continuity. It demonstrates that autonomy in a complex international system does not arise from isolation or domination but from the strategic management of connectivity. In an era defined by contested sea lanes, technological competition and shifting alliances, this lesson remains highly relevant. Connectivity is not merely infrastructure or trade; it is a form of power, one that enables smaller polities to remain central, adaptable and resilient within an ever changing world. Assoc Prof Dr Nasha Rodziadi Khaw is senior lecturer at the Centre for Global Archaeological Research, Universiti Sains Malaysia.Comments: [email protected] by Assoc Prof Dr Nasha Rodziadi Khaw
ESGWEDNESDAY | APR 1, 202612MONBanking & Finance TUESEducation News/Health & Wellness WEDESG THURPropertyAI and digital platforms help bridge ESG talent gap MALAYSIA’S sustainability transition risks stalling even before it truly begins. Technologies can be purchased and regulations can be written, but without skilled professionals who can interpret climate data, assess social risks and implement robust governance frameworks, our net-zero ambitions will remain on paper. This warning is strongly supported by new evidence. The Malaysia ESG Skills Readiness Report 2026, based on a survey of 347 industry leaders, paints a concerning picture: an average 15-point national skills gap across 30 core sustainability competencies. Governance stands out as the area of greatest weakness, followed by challenges in operationalising social principles and mastering environmental metrics such as carbon accounting and climate scenario analysis. The implications are significant. With Bursa Malaysia rolling out enhanced sustainability reporting requirements, companies now face increasing pressure to produce credible, investor-grade disclosures. Those unable to meet these standards risk not only regulatory scrutiny but also losing access to capital, as global investors increasingly direct funds toward markets demonstrating strong ESG capabilities. For Malaysia, this talent shortfall is not merely an HR issue - it is a competitiveness and economic resilience challenge. The root causes of this gap are well understood and deeply structural. According to the report, universities account for 43% of the shortfall, largely due to outdated curricula, limited faculty expertise in emerging ESG standards, and a shortage of Malaysia-specific case studies. Students themselves contribute 29% through narrow career perceptions and insufficient real-world exposure. Industry bears 28% of the responsibility, often demanding ESG-ready talent while investing too little in structured training and mentorship programmes. Closing these systemic gaps will take time. Curriculum reform, faculty development, industry-academia partnerships, and the creation of practical training pathways are all essential, yet they are multi-year endeavours. Malaysian businesses, particularly small and medium enterprises that form the backbone of our economy, do not have the luxury of waiting several years for the perfect talent pipeline to materialise. This is where artificial intelligence (AI) and digital platforms can play a transformative bridging role. Advanced ESG technology solutions, including AI-driven tools, are already helping companies overcome immediate capability constraints by automating labour-intensive aspects of sustainability work. These platforms streamline data collection across complex supply chains, perform accurate carbon accounting aligned with Malaysian and international standards, conduct materiality assessments, and generate sustainability reports that comply with Bursa Malaysia and global frameworks. What once required teams of specialised analysts can now be achieved with greater speed and consistency, allowing existing staff to focus on higher-value strategic activities such as stakeholder engagement, transition planning, and value creation. The use of AI in ESG is expanding rapidly, giving digital tools the intelligence needed to automate tasks, streamline processes, and enhance data-driven decision-making. That said, organisations should be cautious about relying on AI to take over sustainability initiatives entirely; AI works best as an enabler. When combined with the right talent and expertise, AI can significantly enhance and accelerate sustainability transformation efforts. Importantly, these tools do not replace human expertise - they amplify it. By reducing time spent on repetitive data gathering and manual calculations, professionals can invest more energy in interpretation, judgment, and innovation. This is particularly valuable in governance, the area showing the widest gap, (From left) BGMC Energy Holdings Sdn Bhd directors Datuk Teh Kok Lee and Ee Kian Yiaw, Computility Technology (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd director Yeo Yong Hwang, reNikola Holdings Sdn Bhd directors Lim Beng Guan and Khong Ho Ming. oMalaysian businesses do not have the luxury of waiting several years for perfect talent pipeline to materialisePlatinum certification for data centre JOHOR BAHRU: Malaysia has reached a new milestone in sustainable digital infrastructure with the country’s first hyperscale data centre to receive provisional GreenRE Platinum certification for water, energy and sustainability design. The AI-capable hyperscale facility by ZDATA Group Co. Ltd, located in Gelang Patah, Johor, sets a new benchmark for environmentally responsible digital infrastructure in the country. This Platinum rating is the highest sustainability rating under the GreenRE scheme, established by the Real Estate and Housing Developers’ Association (Rehda). The ZDATA facility is currently the only data centre in the country with this accomplishment. This adds to its Malaysia Green Data Centre Recycled Water Certification, received in August 2025, acknowledging its pioneering use of reclaimed water in a large-scale digital infrastructure. Engineered to Tier 3+ standards, ZDATA’s data centre development forms part of a RM8 billion project on a 38-acre site. To date, approximately 18 acres of this have been developed, covering Phase 1 and Phase 2 of the project. Phase 1 of the facility has been completed and is scheduled to commence operations in March 2026. Construction for Phase 2 is currently underway, with operations expected to begin in the second quarter of 2026. The remaining phases of development are scheduled for completion by the end of 2027. One of the most distinctive sustainability features of ZDATA’s facility is its design to run on 100% reclaimed water, treated through two dedicated water treatment plants located in close proximity to the data centre. While cooling operations inherently require water, using reclaimed sources ensures the state’s domestic (potable) water supply will not be used for cooling, therefore minimising impact on local freshwater resources. ZDATA was also among the earliest signatories to the Johor Special Water Projectm a regional initiative by the state government aimed at promoting sustainable water use among high-impact industries, particularly the rapidly expanding data centre sector. CTDC, BGMC and reNIKOLA form Green Energy AllianceJOHOR BHARU: A major leap forward for Malaysia’s sustainable infrastructure was recently formalised as Computility Technology (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd (CTDC), BGMC Energy Holdings Sdn Bhd (BGMC), and reNIKOLA signed a strategic term sheet for a large-scale, long-term green energy supply programme. Under the agreement, CTDC, a fully-owned subsidiary of ZDATA, will utilise the renewable energy generated by BGMC’s solar farm assets to power ZDATA’s first AI-data centre at Gelang Patah. Scheduled to commence in 2028, the programme is projected to deliver approximately 630,000 MWh of renewable energy annually. This partnership represents a significant milestone in decarbonising industrial infrastructure and directly supports Malaysia’s national energy transition goals. The collaboration underscores a collective commitment to embedding ESG where technology can standardise reporting processes and internal controls, while humans focus on the nuanced application of principles to local business contexts. For Malaysian SMEs, the benefit is even more pronounced. Many lack the resources to hire dedicated ESG specialists. Digital platforms level the playing field by providing institutionalgrade tools at accessible costs, enabling smaller companies to meet rising regulatory and buyer expectations without prohibitive overheads. Early adopters are already reporting improved data quality, reduced compliance risk, and stronger positioning when seeking green financing from banks. Of course, technology is not a complete solution. The most successful organisations are those that treat digital tools as part of a dualtrack strategy: using automation for immediate capability while simultaneously investing in long-term talent development. This includes sponsoring employee certifications, creating internal ESG communities of practice, and partnering with universities for applied learning programmes. Looking ahead, Malaysia has an opportunity to differentiate itself in the region. While many countries are still debating approaches to ESG implementation, we can combine our strong policy direction with pragmatic technological adoption. Government support for digital infrastructure and incentives for companies investing in both technology and human capital will be critical. The expanding ESG talent gap is real and urgent. However, it is not insurmountable. By intelligently deploying AI and digital platforms today, Malaysian companies can maintain momentum on their sustainability journey while the harder work of building deep, homegrown expertise continues. The coming years will separate organisations - and indeed nations - that merely talk about sustainability from those that successfully embed it into their operations and culture. Malaysia has the ambition. With the smart integration of technology and sustained investment in people, we also have the means to lead. This article is contributed by ESGpedia vice-president Jozsef Acabo.(Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles into the heart of large-scale digital and industrial ecosystems. In a simultaneous breakthrough for environmental stewardship, CTDC announced it has officially eliminated its reliance on municipal water for its cooling systems. Key benefits of the water initiative include establishing a self-sustaining cooling loop independent of the public water grid; significantly alleviating pressure on Johor’s municipal water resources and resolving previous third-party infrastructure challenges through direct investment in proprietary recycling technology. Together, the renewable energy alliance and the move toward water circularity position CTDC and its partners at the forefront of responsible development. These initiatives are designed to meet the rigorous demands of the modern digital economy while ensuring a minimal environmental footprint. With the signing of the Green Energy Alliance, all parties now enter the primary implementation phase to ensure project delivery ahead of the 2028 operational target.
WEDNESDAY | APR 1, 2026EditorialT: 03-7784 6688 F: 03-7785 2625 E: [email protected] AdvertisingT: 03-7784 8888 E: [email protected] MEBNM projects Malaysia’s 2026 growth at 4% to 5%KUALA LUMPUR: Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) expects Malaysia’s economy to grow between 4% and 5% in 2026, supported by strong fundamentals despite global uncertainties. Governor Datuk Seri Abdul Rasheed Ghaffour said growth will be underpinned by strong domestic demand, supported by stable employment and income conditions, while external risks are cushioned by Malaysia’s diversified export base, firm semiconductor demand, tourism recovery and energy exports. “Even under such scenarios, including the Middle East crisis, the baseline of the economy is able to cushion the impact,” he told reporters at the Bank Negara Malaysia Annual Dialogue yesterday. BNM’s outlook is based on a baseline scenario of a short-lived conflict lasting one to two months, with oil prices ranging between US$70 and US$90 (RM283 and RM364) per barrel. It also factors in an adverse scenario of a more prolonged disruption lasting three to six months, in which oil prices could rise to between US$90 and US$110. Under a tail-risk scenario in which the conflict extends beyond six months and causes severe supply disruptions, oil prices could exceed US$110, potentially prompting a revision to Malaysia’s growth outlook. Abdul Rasheed said BNM has incorporated these scenarios into its assessment, based on the conflict’s duration and severity and its impact on oil prices. “We look at the extent of disruption and how long this conflict will last. Our baseline assumes one to two months, the adverse scenario three to six months, and the tail-risk scenario beyond six months.” He said household consumption remains a key anchor of growth, supported by positive income prospects and a firm labour market, with unemployment expected to remain near its decade-low of around 2.9%, alongside targeted policy support. Investment approvals rose to RM427 billion in 2025, with manufacturing project implementation rates at about 85%, reflecting strong execution and continued private sector capacity expansion led by information technology and electrical and electronics, as well as progress in national masterplans and public infrastructure.He said real export growth is expected to moderate to 2.8% amid Abdul Rasheed (third, right) speaking at the Bank Negara Malaysia Annual Dia;ogue in Kuala Lumpur yesterday. – BERNAMAPICoBank Negara cites strong domestic fundamentals, says external risks cushioned by diversified export base, firm semiconductor demand and tourism recovery, among othersŰ BY HAYATUN RAZAK [email protected] bank declares RM5b dividend for FY25 despite lower earningsKUALA LUMPUR: Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) has declared a dividend of RM5 billion to the government for the financial year ended Dec 31, 2025 (FY25), a second consecutive year of strong payouts despite a 5.7% decline in earnings. The payout follows a record RM5.25 billion dividend in 2024 and matches the RM5 billion distributed in 2021. BNM recorded a net profit after tax of RM12.45 billion in FY25, compared with RM13.16 billion in the previous year, on the back of a lower total income of RM14.35 billion versus RM14.98 billion previously. The income figure is net of costs associated with managing its reserves portfolio and conducting monetary operations. Governor Datuk Seri Abdul Rasheed Ghaffour said the marginal decline reflects the increasingly dynamic global financial market environment, given BNM’s role in managing the country’s international reserves, which are exposed to external uncertainties. “However, this represents a slight decline from the net profit of RM13.16 billion and income of RM14.98 billion recorded in the previous year. The marginal decline is in line with the dynamic global financial market environment,” he said at the Bank Negara Malaysia Annual Dialogue press conference yesterday. The remaining RM7.45 billion of net profit was transferred to the central bank’s risk reserve, which rose to RM155.31 billion at end-2025 from RM147.90 billion a year earlier. The risk reserve serves as a financial buffer comprising cumulative retained profits, unrealised foreign exchange translation gains or losses, and fair value changes from securities. “As 85% of assets are denominated in foreign currency, it is important for us to build adequate risk reserves to allow for a cushion against financial market volatility and exchange rate fluctuations in the foreign currency assets.” International reserves continued to make up the bulk of the central bank’s assets at RM509.79 billion, accounting for the majority of total assets, compared with RM520.13 billion in 2024. BNM emphasised that it does not rely on government funding for its day-to-day operations, instead generating income from investing the country’s international reserves. For FY25, the central bank recorded total expenses of RM1.86 billion, comprising RM1.706 billion in operating expenditure and RM150 million in development spending. It also paid RM42 million in taxes, slightly higher than RM41 million in the previous year. Total assets stood at RM602.22 billion as at end-December 2025, down 3.1% from RM621.54 billion a year earlier, mainly due to currency translation effects following the strengthening of the ringgit. Liabilities declined 6% to RM405.47 billion from RM431.47 billion previously, largely comprising currency in circulation amounting to RM177.75 billion and deposits by financial institutions of RM118.06 billion. The General Reserve Fund remained stable at RM28.888 billion. -by HAYATUN RAZAKexternal uncertainties, but Malaysia’s diversified export base – with no single country accounting for more than 16% of exports – and strong positioning in the global technology cycle, including artificial intelligencedriven demand, will provide support. Tourism remains a key growth driver, having turned the services account into a surplus, with momentum expected to continue under Visit Malaysia 2026, although developments in the Middle East pose downside risks. On inflation, Abdul Rasheed said headline inflation is projected at 1.5% to 2.5% in 2026. “While global cost conditions remain uncertain, underlying inflation is expected to stay stable, supported by steady domestic demand, with policy measures helping to limit the passthrough of global cost pressures.” Malaysia enters this period from a position of strength, supported by robust domestic demand, moderate inflation and a resilient financial system.The economy grew 5.2% in 2025, anchored by resilient domestic demand, with household spending supported by a firm labour market and targeted policy measures. Inflation averaged 1.4% in 2025, the lowest in five years, although costof-living pressures remain a concern. The governor said the ringgit’s outlook remains positive this year, supported by Malaysia’s strong economic fundamentals and movements in the US dollar. He said the country’s current account surplus and ongoing reforms will continue to support the local currency, alongside efforts to encourage the repatriation and conversion of export proceeds and investment income into ringgit. However, he noted that the ongoing conflict in West Asia may have a temporary impact on the ringgit, largely driven by sentiment. “More importantly, it is the strength of the fundamentals built over time. In the long term, investors will assess these developments,” he added. Abdul Rasheed said healthy capital inflows have returned, particularly into financial markets, supported by a more diversified investor base and renewed interest from overseas investors. Meanwhile, deputy governor Adnan Zaylani Mohamad Zahid said the ringgit is expected to remain resilient, underpinned by strong fundamentals built over the past two to three years. He said this is reflected in an active foreign exchange market with strong liquidity, allowing businesses to transact smoothly. BNM will continue its engagement efforts, including encouraging companies to repatriate earnings, convert proceeds into ringgit, and promote its use as an operating currency, especially among multinational companies. He added that new engagement initiatives aim to bridge gaps between the financial sector and the real economy, involving industries such as shipping, aviation and electrical and electronics. “These efforts will strengthen financial intermediation and support industry, and will continue throughout the year,” he said.See alsopage 14
BIZ & FINANCEWEDNESDAY | APR 1, 202614M’sia in position of strength as it faces oil price shocks, says BNMKUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is in a position of strength as it faces oil price shocks following the West Asia conflict, supported by robust domestic demand, moderate inflation, a sound financial sector and a resilient external position.Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) said the country’s standing as a net energy exporter also provided some buffer against external headwinds. “Nevertheless, BNM will remain vigilant to the rapidly evolving nature of this conflict and stand ready to ensure that monetary policy remains supportive of the economy while safeguarding price stability,“ it said in the Economic and Monetary Review 2025 released yesterday. Since Feb 28 this year, geopolitical tensions in West Asia have escalated sharply following the onset of military conflict, disrupting regional oil and gas production, as well as associated supply chain and logistics. BNM said the overall impact of the conflict on Malaysia would depend on its duration, the severity of the disruption, and how far it affects global energy production and logistics. The central bank said the conflict affects the domestic economy mainly through three key channels, including higher energy prices, which raise import costs and subsequently exert upward pressure on domestic production costs as well as consumer prices. These, in turn, could dampen household spending and business activity, it added. BernamaRystad: Asia set to lean more towards offshore, regional sources KUALA LUMPUR: Asia is set to deepen its reliance on offshore energy and regional supply chains as geopolitical tensions and rising demand reshape global energy dynamics, according to Rystad Energy. Its CEO, Jarand Rystad, said the region can increasingly depend on its own resources and capabilities, particularly as disruptions in the Middle East expose vulnerabilities in global energy supply. “The main message is that you can rely more on Asia than you can on the Middle East,” he said at the Offshore Technology Conference Asia 2026, where the firm unveiled its latest white paper on offshore energy. The shift comes as Asia Pacific offshore energy investment is projected to average about US$150 billion (RM710 billion) annually through 2035, supporting both oil and gas development and the expansion of low-carbon technologies such as offshore wind, carbon capture and storage (CCS) and floating solar. Rystad noted that global energy demand is expected to rise about 15% over the next 15 years, requiring total investments to exceed US$5 trillion annually by 2045 to stay aligned with climate goals. Rystad speaking at the Offshore Technology Conference Asia 2026. He says Asia can increasingly depend on its own resources and capabilities than on the Middle East.Energy security takes centre stage amid shift in priorities KUALA LUMPUR: Energy security is set to dominate global industry priorities as geopolitical tensions and supply disruptions force a rethink of the pace and structure of the energy transition, said Petroliam Nasional Bhd (Petronas) president and group CEO Tan Sri Tengku Muhammad Taufik. Opening the Offshore Technology Conference Asia 2026 (OTC Asia 2026), he warned that the world is entering an unprecedented phase of uncertainty, with escalating conflict in the Gulf region threatening to disrupt critical energy flows at a scale far beyond previous crises. “We are on the cusp of a possible outright energy disaster,” he said, noting that nearly 20 million barrels per day of oil, equivalent to about one-fifth of global consumption, alongside a similar share of global liquefied natural gas (LNG) trade, transits through the Strait of Hormuz. The disruption of such volumes, he added, would have far-reaching consequences not only for energy markets but also for downstream industries and global supply chains, from semiconductors to agriculture. “This conflict may well be thousands of miles away, but we’re oPetronas president and CEO says world entering unprecedented phase of uncertainty, on cusp of possible outright disasterŰ BY DEEPALAKSHMI MANICKAM [email protected] in harm’s way,” he said. The warning comes as governments and businesses grapple with rising costs, volatile prices and growing risks of supply shortages, raising concerns of a prolonged period of stagflation if the crisis escalates further. Taufik said the current situation underscores a critical reality often overlooked in recent years, that energy security remains a fundamental precondition for economic stability and growth. “Without a readily available, affordable and resilient system, if hydrocarbons stop flowing in totality, the world would come to a grinding halt,” he said. While reaffirming that Petronas is committed to sustainability and climate goals, he stressed that the transition to lower-carbon energy must not come at the expense of supply reliability. The tension between decarbonisation and energy security has become more pronounced across Asia, where several countries are reverting to coal to manage shortfalls in gas supply and cushion rising costs.Taufik pointed to recent developments in the region, including emergency measures in the Philippines, fuel fund pressures in Thailand, and increased coal usage in major economies such as India, South Korea and Indonesia. “Suddenly the things we take for granted, like switching on the lights or having fuel at the pump, are increasingly at risk,” he said. Against this backdrop, global energy demand continues to climb, driven by population growth, industrialisation and the rapid expansion of digital infrastructure. He noted that global energy consumption has tripled since the 1970s, and is set to rise further with the growth of artificial intelligence and data centres. Electricity demand from data centres alone is expected to more than double by 2030. At the same time, disparities between developed and emerging economies are shaping energy priorities, with advanced nations focusing on competitiveness and critical minerals, while developing economies continue to prioritise access and affordability. Today, around 700 million people still lack access to reliable electricity, while two billion lack access to clean cooking fuels. “No nation should be deprived of the right to pursue economic growth via access to reliable and affordable energy,” Taufik said. In response to these challenges, he outlined three key imperatives for the industry moving forward: accelerating supply, diversifying energy pathways, and integrating systems.On supply, he said the industry must move faster to deliver energy amid rising costs and market volatility, with speed becoming a baseline requirement rather than a competitive advantage. Petronas, he added, is adopting new approaches such as clustered exploration and more agile upstream models to unlock resources more efficiently.Diversification, meanwhile, will be critical in building resilience, encompassing not only a broader mix of energy sources but also supply routes, technologies and revenue streams. The company is expanding its portfolio across both hydrocarbons and lower-carbon solutions, including liquefied natural gas projects, floating LNG facilities and biofuels.Taufik highlighted the delivery of Petronas’ first cargo from LNG Canada, which offers significantly lower greenhouse gas intensity compared with conventional facilities, as part of efforts to support customers transitioning away from coal.He also pointed to the development of a biorefinery in Malaysia aimed at producing sustainable aviation fuel and other cleaner energy products. Integration across sectors and borders will form the third pillar, enabling more efficient energy systems and better management of supply and demand. Petronas has recently partnered with regional utilities and counterparts in Vietnam and Singapore to support cross-border renewable energy trade, laying the groundwork for a broader Asean power grid.“This next chapter of energy will not be defined by resources alone, but by the technologies that unlock them faster, cleaner and at scale,” Taufik said.Within this, Asia will remain the primary driver of demand growth, accounting for the fastest expansion in power consumption globally. Despite the transition push, oil and gas will continue to play a critical role. Rystad said oil demand is expected to peak in the early 2030s, while gas could peak later in the decade, underscoring the need for continued upstream investment. The urgency has been amplified by ongoing tensions in the Middle East, which have injected volatility into global energy markets. Rystad said its base case assumes a ceasefire in early April, with oil prices remaining elevated in the second quarter before easing towards US$80 per barrel later in the year. However, a prolonged escalation could trigger severe supply disruptions.“In a worst-case scenario, prices could go extremely high, even up to US$200 per barrel, because you would need demand destruction on a scale similar to Covid-19,” he said. Rystad estimates that around 1,200 new offshore fields will need to be developed globally to meet future demand, with Southeast Asia emerging as a key frontier despite complex geology. At the same time, Asia’s role as a major energy importer continues to shape market dynamics. While the region is expected to drive the strongest growth in gas demand, there are also risks of oversupply in the 2030s as new projects come online globally. Rystad said this could eventually create a more favourable environment for buyers, even though current market conditions remain tight due to supply disruptions. Alongside conventional energy, offshore clean energy is gaining traction, although at a slower pace than previously expected. Offshore wind capacity forecasts have been revised down compared with earlier projections, reflecting higher costs, interest rates and policy challenges. Still, the sector remains a key growth area, with global offshore wind investments expected to reach around US$100 billion annually by 2030, driven largely by Asia and Europe.Beyond generation, Asia is increasingly dominating global energy supply chains, particularly in manufacturing. The region leads in key segments such as solar panels, battery cells, wind turbine components and offshore vessels, positioning it as a critical enabler of the global energy transition.China alone accounts for a significant share of production across these segments, while countries like Indonesia and Malaysia are expanding their capabilities. Rystad also highlighted the growing importance of emerging technologies in Asia’s energy mix, including floating solar, small modular nuclear reactors and CCS projects. In parallel, regional cooperation on power grids is expected to strengthen energy resilience. “Asia is entering a pivotal period in its energy journey,” Rystad said. “It’s really an all-of-the-above strategy that will define the next decades.” - byDEEPALAKSHMI MANICKAM
BIZ & FINANCEWEDNESDAY | APR 1, 202615thesun.myContact us now for special deals on digital, video and print advertising.03-7784 6688 [email protected] retains its importance in the Malaysian landscape for parents, students and stakeholders. The changes are fast paced with new developments in new fields of study such as cybersecurity, data protection, augmented and virtual reality, machine learning in education, digital education and artificial Intelligence. Leading the way are universities, who are invited to showcase their latest programmes, curriculum and content in our Education Focus for 2026.Japan sees Malaysia as key partnerKUALA LUMPUR: Japan is positioning Malaysia as a key anchor in its evolving supply chain strategy, as both nations seek to deepen industrial cooperation amid rising geopolitical and economic uncertainties.Speaking at the Japan–Malaysia Industrial Cooperation Seminar, Japanese ambassador to Malaysia Shikata Noriyuki said economic security, particularly in energy and supply chains, has become a top priority for Tokyo amid heightened global tensions. He pointed to vulnerabilities in global energy routes, especially in the Middle East, as a wake-up call for countries to diversify their energy sources and strengthen supply chain resilience. “In this increasingly complex landscape, reinforcing energy security and supply chain resilience is a critical challenge for Japan,” he said.Against this backdrop, Malaysia has emerged as a natural partner, given its established industrial base and strategic position in Asean. Shikata noted that both countries’ policy frameworks are increasingly Ű BY DEEPALAKSHMI MANICKAM [email protected] says Duopharma navigating geopolitical risks, keeps ‘Buy’ call KUALA LUMPUR: Duopharma Biotech Bhd (DBB) is navigating geopolitical risks as the intensifying US-Iran conflict poses two primary risks to the group: a direct impact on export sales and spikes in raw material prices. CIMB Securities Sdn Bhd noted that the impact on sales is expected to be minimal, as only 0.4% of DBB’s total sales are derived from exports to Middle Eastern countries. Regarding the spike in raw material prices, particularly active pharmaceutical ingredients, DBB indicated that it currently holds sufficient inventory to last at least six months. CIMB Securities said this is broadly in line with the Health Ministry’s previous guidance of maintaining stock buffers of up to five months, thereby mitigating the risk of raw material shortages. “The company continues to closely monitor developments related to the Middle Eastern conflict and will implement price adjustments in the private sector, where feasible, to cushion any cost impact,” the research firm said. CIMB Securities said DBB expects the award of a new three-year contract to supply human insulin by the third quarter of 2026. The previous contract expired in October 2025. The research firm also noted that in February 2026, the Health Ministry (MOH) awarded DBB a short-term contract worth RM65.1 million to supply recombinant human insulin (RHI) until May 2026. “As MOH insulin supply contracts typically run for three years, the current arrangement is seen as an interim extension pending the finalisation of the longer-term tender,” CIMB Securities said. CIMB Securities maintained a “Buy” call on DBB, but lowered its target price to RM1.93. The research house reduced DBB’s core net profit forecasts for FY26–28 by 8%, 7% and 7% respectively – to reflect higher input and logistics costs. The firm said the revised target price represents a 7% cut and is based on an unchanged FY27 price-toearnings multiple of 16 times, in line with its three-year historical average.aligned, with Japan’s growth strategy intersecting with Malaysia’s Madani vision, creating what he described as a “powerful synergy” for future collaboration. The partnership is already substantial. Japan remains one of Malaysia’s largest investors, with thousands of manufacturing projects implemented over decades that form the backbone of the country’s industrialisation. Deputy Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Sim Tze Tzin said Malaysia continues to offer a stable and competitive base for Japanese firms seeking to diversify operations in the region. “As of December 2025, a total of 2,872 manufacturing projects have been implemented with investments worth RM107.9 billion,” he said. Bilateral trade reached RM142.9 billion last year and continued to grow in early 2026, underscoring sustained economic momentum between the two nations. Sim emphasised that Malaysia is transitioning beyond traditional manufacturing into higher-value, innovation-driven activities, creating new opportunities for Japanese companies.Key sectors identified include semiconductors, advanced materials, medical devices and green technologies. Malaysia’s push into the semiconductor value chain including IC design, advanced packaging and R&D, is expected to be a major draw for Japanese investment, particularly as global chip supply chains are being restructured. “Invest not just in assembly, but in innovation,” Sim urged, calling on Japanese firms to co-locate research and development (R&D) activities in Malaysia. Green transformation is another major pillar of cooperation, with both countries exploring collaboration in electric vehicles, renewable energy and carbon capture technologies. Senior political adviser to the prime minister and Mida chairman Tengku Zafrul Aziz said the shifting global landscape is accelerating the need for resilient and diversified industrial networks. “The old world of efficiency is collapsing. A new world of resilience must be built,” he said. He stressed that Malaysia is no longer pitching potential, but proven capability, backed by decades of industrial collaboration with Japanese firms. The country’s new investment framework also signals a shift towards quality over quantity, with incentives increasingly tied to innovation, sustainability and economic complexity. “This framework is tailor-made for Japanese companies known for precision, discipline and long-term commitment,” he added. Zafrul highlighted Malaysia’s role in critical supply chains including rareearth processing and energy exports, noting that the country already plays a significant role in supporting Japan’s industrial ecosystem.Malaysia currently supplies about 15% of Japan’s liquefied natural gas needs, reinforcing long-standing energy ties between the two nations. At the same time, both countries are looking to expand cooperation into emerging areas such as artificial intelligence, aerospace and digital industries. Beyond investments, talent development is also gaining prominence, with calls for deeper collaboration in training, internships and knowledge exchange to support long-term industrial growth. The seminar comes as Malaysia and Japan prepare to mark 70 years of diplomatic relations next year, following the elevation of ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership in 2023. Shikata said the relationship is entering a new phase, moving from a traditional “Look East” approach to one based on mutual learning and equal partnership. “We must evolve from learning from each other to learning with each other,” he said.RM107.9b in manufacturing projects highlights decades of deep-rooted industrial collaboration between both economies. – UNSPLASH PIXoEnvoy says there is ‘powerful synergy’ for collaboraton’ as Tokyo prioritises economic security, especially energy and supply chains
BIZ & FINANCEWEDNESDAY | APR 1, 202616/thesuntelegramFOLLOW ON TELEGRAMmRAM/Malaysian PaperAustralia warned against taxing LNG windfall profitsthrough to Australians through higher corporate income tax and PRRT receipts”. Asia spot LNG prices have doubled to threeyear highs since the conflict in Iran began in February. Profits earned on long-term contracts linked to oil prices, which make up 75% of Australia’s export shipments, are also expected to surge in three to six months. Late last year Canberra introduced a gas market review that may reserve 15%-25% of east coast and Northern Territory exports from 2027. A more detailed policy is expected later this year. Chevron called a windfall profits tax a “kneejerk”, “sugar hit” policy and the “exact opposite” of what Australia needed. “There are discussions of market interventions, taxes and such,” Danny Woodall, Chevron Australia’s director of operations and maintenance, told the conference. “It’s a moment to reject that and to consider how we can encourage more investments so that we can secure that supply,” he added. Australia exported A$65 billion (RM179.7 billion) of LNG last year, but gas producers have been criticised for low tax payments under rules that let them recoup construction costs before paying tax. Santos CEO Kevin Gallagher said the “narrative that LNG exports take money out of Australia” was wrong and “every LNG tanker that departs Gladstone represents around A$4.5 million in royalties paid to the state”. “Australia must have a policy framework that abandons ideology about ‘fossil fuels’ and instead encourages companies to invest, drill and produce more gas,” he told the event. Gladstone LNG is the only of the three Queensland export consortia to source thirdparty domestic gas while the others are net suppliers. – ReutersWake speaks during the Australian Domestic Gas Outlook conference in Sydney yesterday. – REUTERSPICoGas majors Shell, Chevron push back against calls for new levy, say it will risk deterring future investment Unilever, McCormick near deal to create US$60b food giantLONDON: Unilever said yesterday it was in advanced talks to combine its food business with spice maker McCormick in a potential deal that would deliver US$15.7 billion (RM63.3 billion) in cash and give shareholders majority control of the merged entity. If completed, the transaction would be structured as a so-called Reverse Morris Trust, which offers tax benefits. Unilever would spin off the division and then merge it with the Cholula hot sauce owner. It is expected that Unilever shareholders would retain a 65% stake in the combined entity. Analysts at Barclays valued Unilever’s food business at between €28 billion and €31 billion (RM129,6 billion and RM143.5 billion), including debt. That, combined with McCormick’s US$14.2 billion market capitalisation and the US$15.7 billion in cash could value a new combined entity at over US$60 billion. The potential deal marks Fernando Fernandez’ biggest move yet since taking the helm at Unilever in March 2025 and comes after he completed the spin-off last year of Unilever’s multi-billion euro ice cream business, home to Ben & Jerry’s and Magnum. Though Unilever’s food unit is a high-margin business, sales growth has lagged the company’s personal goods and beauty businesses and weighed on its ambition to increase overall group sales by 4%-6% in the near term. “Work remains ongoing to agree and finalise a transaction and it is possible that an agreement could be concluded today, although there can be no certainty that a transaction will be agreed,” Unilever said in a statement on the talks with McCormick. Unilever said the proposed combination of its foods business would exclude certain assets, including its operations in India. The company has been under investor pressure to shed food brands for years, increasingly so after it was revealed in 2022 that billionaire activist-shareholder Nelson Peltz had built a stake in Unilever. Peltz has been linked to the departure of two CEOs, Alan Jope and Hein Schumacher, who investors felt were not streamlining Unilever’s portfolio fast enough. The deal with McCormick comes on top of an ongoing cost-cutting programme Unilever has had in place since 2024, meant to save around €800 million in costs over the next three years. “Evaluating the transaction will necessitate more details on synergies and how the company will deal with stranded costs, with news today that it has implemented a global hiring freeze amid the war impact, which may affect sentiment on current trading,“ JPMorgan analysts wrote in a note.Reuters reported exclusively on Monday that Unilever last week implemented a global hiring freeze “at all levels” that will last at least three months, citing the effects of the widening conflict in the Middle East. – ReutersKorean Air shifts to emergency mode amid rising oil prices from Iran warSEOUL: Korean Air will enter emergency management mode this month as rising oil prices driven by the war in the Middle East weigh on costs, a source with knowledge of the matter told Reuters yesterday. The airline said in an internal memo reviewed by Reuters that if high oil prices persist, it expects significant disruption to its annual business targets, and will shift to an emergency operating system from April. The memo added that the airline plans to implement phased response measures based on oil price levels, and step up company-wide cost efficiency to offset surging fuel costs. T’way Air and Asiana Airlines have also entered emergency management mode this month amid rising fuel costs, according to local media reports, underscoring the broader strain on South Korea’s aviation industry. Korean Air said it expects fuel costs for April to rise to around 450 US cents per gallon, significantly higher than the 220 US cents per gallon cited in its business plan, a sharp increase in its monthly cost burden. Fuel surcharges for flights departing from South Korea in April are also set to jump, with fares on Incheon to New York and Incheon to Chicago routes rising by more than 200%, while surcharges on Incheon to London and Incheon to Paris routes are expected to increase by nearly 250%, according to Korean Air’s website. – ReutersSouth Korean, Japanese bourses wrap up worst month since 2008 SEOUL: South Korean markets buckled yesterday, with shares sliding towards their worst monthly performance since the global financial crisis and the won sinking to post-crisis lows, as the Middle East war sent investors fleeing worldwide.The benchmark Kospi sank 4.3% yesterday, taking its fall from late February’s record closing high to 19.9%, a whisker short of confirming, on some measures, a bear market. The monthly drop of 19% is the largest since 2008 and the won slumped around 1% to trade weaker than 1,500 to the dollar – levels previously broached only in the aftermath of the global financial crisis in 2009 and the late 1990s Asian crisis. The market’s earlier gains this year only deepened the rout, as soaring energy prices and fading risk tolerance left global investors with nowhere to hide, forcing a rapid unwinding of oncefavoured assets. Foreigners sold a net 35.9 trillion won (RM94.5 billion) in Kospi shares in March, exchange data shows, the largest outflow on record and one which has pushed the currency lower. The rush out is positioning-driven, said Rajiv Batra, head of Asia and co-head of global emerging markets equity strategy at JPMorgan in Singapore. “The market didn’t look into how much growth damage is there, earnings damage is there ... wherever people were significantly positioned and that money was in profit, that’s where people started doing de-risking.” Analysis from Goldman Sachs shows foreign selling has been heaviest in market-darling chipmakers Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix, driving foreign ownership in the pair to its lowest since 2022. Both dropped sharply yesterday, shedding 5.2% and 7.6% respectively and both are down more than 20% through March. Even so, the sheer scale of the rally before the Iran war has left them sharply higher for the year, with the broader Kospi still up about 20%. Separately, Japan’s Nikkei share average fell for the fourth straight day yesterday, capping its worst month since the 2008 global financial crisis as the widening Middle East war weighed on sentiment. The benchmark Nikkei 225 Index fell 1.6% to close at 51,063.72, bringing its cumulative loss in March to 13.2%, the most since October 2008. The broader Topix slid 1.26% to 3,497.86. “Semiconductor-related stocks fell sharply in the US market last night (Monday), and following that trend, selling pressure is being seen today in Japan,” said Maki Sawada, an equities strategist at Nomura Securities. “If the correction continues, the 50,000 point (on the Nikkei) is likely to be viewed as a key support level.” ReutersSYDNEY/PERTH: Gas majors including Shell and Chevron warned Australia against introducing a windfall tax on gas exporters, saying it would deter investment and undermine energy security as liquefied natural gas (LNG) prices surge amid disruption caused by the Iran war. Australia became the world’s second-largest LNG supplier after Iranian strikes forced Qatar to halt production, with its export revenue set to surge due to lower supply caused by the conflict. Canberra is weighing options to capitalise on the higher prices, with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese asking the Treasury Department to model a tax on LNG exports and suggest reforms to the Petroleum Resources Rent Tax (PRRT). A suggested windfall tax could exceed 25%. Cecile Wake, chair of Shell Australia, which exports gas from the Queensland Curtis LNG project and operates the floating LNG project Prelude off northern Australia, warned against “short-term fixes” in response to the energy crisis. “At times like this, there is increased risk that strong and stable policy settings are sidelined by short-term measures or populist rhetoric,” she told the Australian Domestic Gas Outlook conference yesterday. The proposed policies would “erode project values and render many of Australia’s future growth opportunities uneconomic and uncompetitive compared to global alternatives”, Wake said. She said high commodity prices “already flow
BIZ & FINANCEWEDNESDAY | APR 1, 202617Japan brands yen falls ‘speculative’ as Iran war sparks sell-offTOKYO: Japan yesterday labelled recent yen falls as speculative for the first time since the Middle East war began, shifting its focus back to currency short-sellers as policymakers braced for a triple market sell-off driven by fresh inflationary concerns. While data showed core inflation in Japan’s capital slowed in March, analysts expect surging oil prices from the Iran war and higher import costs from the weak yen to pile pressure on the Bank of Japan to raise interest rates as soon as April. As the yen lingered near the key 160-per-dollar mark, Finance Minister Satsuki Katayama yesterday repeated Tokyo’s readiness to respond “on all fronts” against volatile moves. “We’re seeing speculative moves heightening in the currency market,” as well as in the oil futures market, Katayama told parliament. It was the first time she explicitly mentioned yen moves as speculative since the one-month-old Middle East conflict triggered renewed declines in the currency.The remark compared with those until Monday that speculative traders in the oil futures markets could be affecting yen moves. After briefly rising after Katayama’s remarks, the yen stood around 159.93 per dollar yesterday, remaining a whisker away from the 160 level seen as authorities’ line in the sand for intervention. Japanese authorities have justified past yen interventions by describing the currency’s moves as speculative and too rapid, pointing to G7 and G20 agreements that disorderly, excessive foreign exchange moves that deviate from fundamentals were harmful to growth. Tsuyoshi Ueno, an economist at NLI Research Institute, cast doubt on whether recent yen falls were out of sync with fundamentals, as the declines were driven largely by investor demand for the safe-haven dollar.“It’s part of escalated verbal intervention,” he said of Katayama’s latest comments. “If the yen slides below 162 fairly quickly, 165 would be the next threshold. That’s when we could see large fluctuations and prompt Japan to intervene,” he said. Markets have been rattled after the Iran war effectively shut the Strait of Hormuz, a chokepoint for about a fifth of global oil and gas flows, driving up crude oil prices and demand for the safe-haven dollar. Soaring oil prices from the Middle East conflict add to inflationary pressures from the weak yen, which has been a political headache for policymakers by pushing up import costs. Economy minister Minoru Kiuchi told reporters yesterday the government was closely watching not just the currency but also the bond market for any “excessive moves” in yields.The spectre of a triple selling in Japanese assets complicates the Bank of Japan’s decision on whether to hike rates soon to combat inflationary pressure, or tread cautiously to avoid hurting a fragile economy. – ReutersBig Tech’s US$635b AI spending faces energy shock test: S&P Global TOKYO: Massive investments in artificial intelligence (AI) that underpinned record runs in equities face a major hurdle as the Middle East crisis clouds prospects for growth and energy costs, said Melissa Otto, head of research at S&P Global Visible Alpha. Before the Iran war broke out, tech giants Microsoft, Amazon, Alphabet and Meta planned to spend about US$635 billion (RM2.56 trillion) on data centres, chips, and other AI infrastructure in 2026, S&P Global has said. That figure was up from US$383 billion the prior year and just US$80 billion in 2019. Although tech companies have yet to signal cutbacks in those capital investments, persistently high oil prices could force spending revisions in the first and second quarters, bringing a “really meaningful correction in all equity markets”, Otto said. “I think if the capex numbers get pulled back, if in fact energy prices are not reflected in earnings, that could be a catalyst,” she added in an interview in Tokyo on Monday. Euphoria over AI had carried global stock indexes beyond the highs of 2025, with bright hopes for the trend to run further, but it has lost steam since the conflict. At the same time, energy costs are becoming a constraint. Data centres require vast amounts of electricity, making the AI dependent on power prices and infrastructure capacity. At the CERAWeek energy conference in Houston last week, oil executives warned supply risks are not fully reflected in prices, Otto said, raising concerns about further increases with ripple effects for the global economy. “We’re seeing this big question around global growth,” Otto added. “Because if you have energy prices jumping 30%, that’s going to hurt consumers, that’s going to hurt companies.” – ReutersUK economy limped into end of 2025: Official dataLONDON: Britain’s economy barely expanded at the end of 2025, official data confirmed yesterday, adding to the challenge for the government to keep growth on track this year with the Iran war likely to push up inflation and hit demand. Gross domestic product increased by 0.1% in the Octoberto-December period, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said. Economists polled by Reuters had forecast the reading for gross domestic product in the fourth quarter would be unrevised. The ONS said Britain’s economy in the fourth quarter grew 1.0% from a year earlier – unchanged from an initial estimate – while on a per capita basis, output was 0.1% lower than the year before. Growth in the third quarter was also confirmed at 0.1%. “Such a weak economic backdrop makes it more likely that the inevitable jump in CPI inflation in the coming months won’t morph into a long-lasting rise that requires the Bank of England (BoE) to raise interest rates,” Paul Dales, chief UK economist at Capital Economics, said. Investors are betting on two, or possibly three, quarter-point rate hikes by the BoE before the end of this year. But most economists polled by Reuters think the central bank will not increase borrowing costs, given the weakness in the economy. Last week the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development cut its forecast for British economic growth this year to 0.7% from a previous forecast of 1.2%, the biggest downgrade of any major economy. That would represent a halving of the pace of growth seen over 2025, which the ONS revised up to 1.4% from a previous estimate of 1.3%. Prime Minister Keir Starmer and finance minister Rachel Reeves have promised voters that they will speed up the economy, a challenge that looks even bigger against the backdrop of the conflict in the Middle East. Most of the growth in the last three months of 2025 came from the public sector. Business investment fell. However, there were some signs in yesterday’s data that offered analysts some grounds for confidence about the outlook, with households putting more money aside and raising the savings ratio by 0.8 percentage points to 9.9%. – ReutersChina factory activity expands at quickest pace in a yearEmployees at work on a production line manufacturing camera lenses for cellphones at a factory in Lianyungang, China. The March manufacturing data has underscored some resilience in China’s economy despite the uncertainty that the raging Middle East war has brought about. – REUTERSPICoOfficial March manufacturing PMI at 50.4, up from February’s 49.0BEIJING: China’s factory activity expanded in March at its quickest pace in a year, official data showed yesterday, ending a two-month slump as production picked up after the annual Spring Festival holiday. The world’s second-largest economy has been struggling with a slowdown in domestic demand and investment in recent years that has weighed on its vast manufacturing sector. Despite this, the manufacturing purchasing managers’ index – a key measure of industrial health – rose to 50.4 in March, according to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). That figure was up from 49.0 in February and 49.3 in January, and beat a forecast of 50.1 in a Bloomberg survey of economists. It is the highest since March 2025 when the PMI was 50.5. NBS statistician Huo Lihui attributed March’s expansion to the “resumption of work and pro-duction after the Spring Festival”, which led to increased market activity.There was an acceleration in the production activities of manufacturing enterprises and a marked improvement in market demand, Huo said. China’s non-manufacturing PMI – a gauge of activity across services and construction – was 50.1 in March, an improvement from February’s slump of 49.5. The data has underscored some resilience in China’s economy despite the uncertainty that the raging Middle East war has brought about, after US-Israeli strikes on Iran triggered Tehran’s retaliation that sharply restricted access to the Strait of Hormuz. The waterway is a critical shipping route for energy resources, and the situation has caused global oil prices to soar, triggering fears for the world economy. The outlook for the second quarter is unclear, and the market is “increasingly worried” about the risk of global growth slowdown and supply chain disruption, Zhiwei Zhang, president and chief economist at Pinpoint Asset Management, wrote in a note. “While China has ample energy reserves to mitigate the term of trade shock, a global growth slowdown would dampen China’s exports,” Zhang said. China’s trade surged by a fifth in the first two months of the year, official data showed earlier this month, significantly outpacing forecasts despite a plunge in shipments to the United States. – AFP
BIZ & FINANCEWEDNESDAY | APR 1, 202618@thesundailyFOLLOW ON INSTAGRAM@tMalaysian PaperOil, war top market worries for Q2LONDON: Battered financial markets enter the second quarter significantly exposed to war headlines, a backdrop that could prompt a bigger retreat for equity markets while a hefty selloff in bonds could tempt buyers back. Even if a resolution to the conflict boosts near-term sentiment, damage inflicted on Middle East energy infrastructure and higher for longer oil prices will still hurt economic growth and drive up inflation, investors expect. It’s a backdrop that could prompt a bigger retreat for equity markets, while a more protracted conflict that sees growth worries outpace inflation angst could prompt a recovery in bonds. “It’s difficult to look through the noise when the noise is all we have,” said Seema Shah, chief global strategist at Principal Asset Management, which manages roughly US$594 billion (RM2.4 trillion).“We’ve been pushing towards international (stocks) exposure and that continues to make sense, but it doesn’t mean you close off your exposure to the US.” War in the Middle East tops a turbulent first quarter, with markets oGlobal growth outlook deteriorates as energy shocks ripple through major economiesOil tanker off Dubai hit by Iranian strike after Trump’s latest threatsTEL AVIV: Iran attacked and set ablaze a fully loaded crude oil tanker off Dubai early yesterday, after President Donald Trump warned the US would obliterate Iran’s energy plants and oil wells if it does not open the Strait of Hormuz. The strike on the Kuwait-flagged AlSalmi is the latest attack on merchant vessels by missiles or explosive air and sea drones in the Gulf and Strait of Hormuz since the US and Israel attacked Iran on Feb 28. The month-long conflict has spread across the Middle East, killing thousands, disrupting energy supplies and threatening to send the global economy into a tailspin Crude oil prices briefly spiked again after the attack on the tanker, which can carry around 2 million barrels of oil worth more than US$200 million (RM804 million) at current prices. Kuwait Petroleum Corp, the ship’s owner, said the attack happened early yesterday, causing a fire and hull damage. Authorities in Dubai later said they had brought the fire under control following a drone attack on the tanker, with no oil leak and no injuries to the crew. The jump in oil and fuel prices has started to weigh on US household finances and become a political headache for Trump and his Republican Party before November midterm elections, having vowed to lower energy prices and increase US oil and gas production. The US national average retail price of gasoline crossed US$4 a gallon for the first time in over three years on Monday, data from price-tracking service GasBuddy showed. Tightening global supplies have pushed benchmark Brent crude up 56% this month, the largest rise on record, to above US$113 a barrel. Attacks by both sides show no signs of easing, with fears of a wider regional conflict growing. Iran-aligned Houthis have entered the war by firing missiles and drones at Israel and Turkey reported a ballistic missile launched from Iran had entered Turkish airspace before being shot down by Nato air and missile defenses. Israel has been carrying out missile strikes on what it called military infrastructure in Tehran and infrastructure used by Iran-backed Hezbollah in the Lebanese capital Beirut. Sounds of explosions were heard in parts of eastern and western Tehran minutes after Israel issued a warning of imminent strikes in the city, Iran’s Tasnimnews agency reported yesterday. Residents in the eastern Pirouzi district reported power outages after the blasts, and officials from Iran’s Energy Ministry began efforts to restore power, Tasnimsaid. A strike on a Shi’ite congregation hall in the northwestern Iranian city of Zanjan yesterday killed three people and injuring 12, a provincial official told Iranian media. The Israeli military said early yesterday that four soldiers had been killed in southern Lebanon, the same area as where three United Nations peacekeepers from Indonesia have been killed, in two separate incidents. Iran’s military spokesman said on state television that targets in its latest missile and drone attacks included “hideouts” of US military personnel in five bases in the region and in Israel. – ReutersAttack on fully loaded tanker highlights rising risks to global energy supplies. – REUTERSPIXChina’s top airlines cautious as Iran conflict lifts fuel costsBEIJING: China’s three largest state-owned airlines said they were cautious about the outlook for this year as the Iran war drives jet fuel prices sky-high, after all returned to losses in the fourth quarter of 2025. China’s aviation industry, already grappling with oversupply in the domestic market, is now dealing with uncertainties over the Middle East crisis that has overshadowed the outlook for airlines globally. “The impact of geopolitical conflicts will persist and the overall momentum of global economic growth will remain insufficient,“ China Eastern Airlines said in its annual report issued late on Monday. Air China , China Eastern and China Southern Airlines had returned to profit in the third quarter thanks to strong summer travel demand. But they struggled to maintain that momentum as aggressive capacity expansion and intensifying competition – including from the country’s expanding high-speed rail network – pushed ticket prices lower even as passenger volumes grew. Guangzhou-based China Southern slipped into the red in the fourth quarter with a loss of 1.3 billion yuan (RM756 million) despite being the only one of the three to post a full-year profit. Shanghai-based China Eastern posted a fourth-quarter loss of 3.7 billion yuan, while Beijing-based Air China, the country’s flagship carrier, last week reported a loss of 3.64 billion yuan in the same period. All three airlines pointed to a renewed focus on the international market as a growth driver that helped to boost revenue. For the full year of 2025, China Eastern recorded a 22.7% rise in international passenger traffic, while China Southern posted a 19.6% rise and Air China’s international traffic was up 15%.Their international operations came under pressure in the fourth quarter, as they cut capacity to Japan sharply after a mid-November government travel advisory amid tensions between the two countries, which also led them to offer free refunds. According to aviation data platform Flight Master, Chinese airlines carried a record 94 million passengers during the 40-day Spring Festival travel rush in the first quarter of this year, up 4.7% year-on-year. But analysts cautioned that the boost from holiday demand could be threatened by sharply higher fuel costs. Before the Iran war started last month, the global airline industry had forecast record profits of US$41 billion in 2026, but a more than doubling in jet fuel prices has placed that at risk and forced carriers to rethink their networks and strategies. China Eastern was the only one of the nation’s “Big Three” state-owned carriers to manage jet fuel price risk through hedging in 2025. As of Dec 31, 2025, it held outstanding jet fuel hedge positions of 500,000 barrels, scheduled to expire in 2026, its annual report said. – Reutersalso whipped around by US President Donald Trump’s intervention in Venezuela, threats over Greenland, and AI disruption. Oil is the clear outperformer, surging roughly 90% this quarter to above US$100. That’s jolted bond investors, who have ramped up interest rate-hike expectations. So long as current supply disruptions are sustained, analysts polled by Reuters estimate oil prices between US$100 and US$190, with an average forecast of US$134.62. Online prediction market platform Polymarket gives a roughly 36% chance of the war ending by mid-May, and a 60% chance by the end of June. Chiming with 2022’s inflation surge, Britain and Italy’s short-dated borrowing costs have jumped 75 basis points each this quarter. US, German and Japanese bond moves are also significant . “In all the historical oil shocks, only two things matter: one, the duration of the shock and second, the central bank reaction, which defines the broader risk appetite,” said Societe Generale multi-asset strategist Manish Kabra. Since the Iran war started, traders have priced out US rate cuts by yearend. In the euro area, they expect three rate hikes and at least two in Britain, having previously expected easing. An emerging markets monetary easing push has been short-circuited. Kabra said one focal point for markets could be the May US Memorial Day holiday weekend, the start of a heavy travel season that could see pressure from consumers on policymakers to contain energy costs. He has increased asset allocation to commodities to 15% since the war started from 10% before, reflecting the growing link between geopolitics and commodities. In bond markets, where prices have tumbled and yields surged as investors brace for higher inflation and rates, some investors expect pullback. Francesco Sandrini, head of multi-asset strategies at Amundi, said Europe’s biggest asset manager had increased exposure to short-term euro zone government bonds and maintained exposure to five-year US Treasuries on a view that fixed income could perform well once a solution to the crisis emerges. “In other words, we expect central banks will try to look through shortterm price pressure,” Sandrini said. Bonds were looking more attractive than a few months back, said Russell Investments’ global chief investment strategist Paul Eitelman, adding that dollar strength was unlikely to be sustained over the medium term. The dollar has reasserted itself as a safe haven, rallying over 2% in March.Before the war, investors had diversified away from US assets to other markets, weighing on the dollar, and this theme could return if the conflict ends, analysts said. Gold, meanwhile, has eased 4% in March. While the safe haven typically rallies at times of inflation angst, it has weakened as investors tap profitable trades to make up for losses in other assets. While stocks have held up relatively well, thanks to strong earnings and the tech boom, selling pressure has increased recently. The S&P 500 and Europe’s STOXX 600 index are down 9-10% from recent record peaks, while Japan’s Nikkei has slid almost 13% from February’s record high. Zurich Insurance Group’s chief market strategist Guy Miller said he had moved to an underweight position on equities from overweight before the war as the economic outlook darkens. US consumer sentiment fell more than expected in March, German investor morale has collapsed and S&P Global’s March Purchasing Managers’ Indexes for the euro zone and US – forward-looking business activity indicators – hit multi-month lows.While a strong economy and its energy exporter status buffer the US, it too will take a hit if the conflict keeps energy prices elevated, analysts said. – Reuters
BIZ & FINANCEWEDNESDAY | APR 1, 202619STOCKS CLOSING (RM) +/- (RM) VOLUME (’00) SUNCON 6.370 -0.480 114,098 SUNWAY 4.800 -0.400 222,554 PETDAG 21.840 -0.320 7,193 PETGAS 17.960 -0.260 9,041 TENAGA 13.900 -0.260 69,106 ALLIANZ 20.480 -0.180 1,701 TM-C1Z 0.055 -0.175 500 SDG 6.050 -0.160 152,592 SNS-CR 0.015 -0.135 35,000 PETRONM 4.520 -0.130 1,161 SHH 0.990 -0.130 242 DLADY 31.700 -0.120 509 DIALOG 2.190 -0.110 129,970 ITMAX 4.450 -0.110 10,755 QL 3.700 -0.110 25,042 CDB-C72 0.045 -0.105 19,688 HIBISCS 2.260 -0.100 169,327 KOTRA 4.050 -0.090 179 PMETAL 8.000 -0.090 133,579 SUNMED 2.000 -0.090 1,126,367STOCKS CLOSING (RM) +/-(RM) +/-(%) VOLUME (’00)HSI-PWPJ 0.265 -0.010 -3.64 1,391,772 TOPGLOV 0.690 +0.060 +9.52 1,281,203 SUNMED 2.000 -0.090 -4.31 1,126,367 ZETRIX 0.740 -0.015 -1.99 1,079,037 HSI-CWOK 0.100 -0.005 -4.76 1,018,596 ARMADA 0.345 +0.015 +4.55 839,377 VS 0.205 -0.010 -4.65 702,427 HSI-CWO9 0.105 - - 486,514 BORNOIL 0.010 +0.005 +100.00 449,452 HARTA 1.150 +0.020 +1.77 438,950 TANCO 1.450 +0.020 +1.40 438,033 HSI-PWPT 0.145 -0.010 -6.45 426,567 PBBANK 4.680 +0.020 +0.43 411,773 KOSSAN 1.200 +0.110 +10.09 406,339 AAX 1.110 +0.030 +2.78 311,835 ZETRIX-CAR 0.085 - - 300,300 PHARMA 0.245 - - 290,835 VELESTO 0.340 -0.005 -1.45 286,731 YTL 1.690 +0.080 +4.97 266,648 OCR 0.045 - - 262,334SUNBIZ presents a summary of the day’s trading activity on Bursa Malaysia and other markets in an easy to digest format.MARKET ROUND-UP: MAR 31[ Sources: Bursa Malaysia, Bernama, shareinvestor.com and websites DISCLAIMER: The data and reports are provided as a service to investors. Sun Media Corporation Sdn Bhd shall not be liable or responsible for any consequences resulting from usage of the information.Top 20 ActivesTop 20 Losers (By RM)Bursa IndicesINDEX CLOSING DAILY DAILY CHANGE CHANGE (%)DJIA (US) 45,216.14 49.5 0.11 S&P 500 (US) 6,343.72 -25.13 -0.39 NASDAQ (US) 20,794.64 -153.72 -0.73 NYSE (US) 21,581.65 -50.85 -0.24 EURO STOXX 50 (EUR) 5,565.77 23.98 0.43 FTSE 100 (UK) 10,195.35 67.39 0.67 DAX (GER) 22,691.32 128.44 0.57 NIKKEI 225 (JPN) 51,063.72 -822.13 -1.58 TOPIX INDEX (JPN) 3,497.86 -44.48 -1.26 HANG SENG INDEX (HK) 24,788.14 37.35 0.15 CSI 300 (CHN) 4,450.05 -41.9 -0.93 MSCI ASIA PACIFIC 229.48 -4.96 -2.12 SHANGHAI SE COM (CHN) 3,891.86 -31.43 -0.8 KOSPI INDEX (SK) 5,052.46 -224.84 -4.26 SENSEX INDEX (IND) 71,947.55 -1635.67 -2.22 ASX 200 (AUS) 8,481.78 20.8 0.25 ALL ORDINARIES INDX (AUS) 8,683.94 26.41 0.31 FBM KLCI 1,690.36 -1.85 -0.11 STRAITS TIMES INDEX (S’PORE) 4,892.82 -4.44 -0.09 WTI (US$/BBL.) 102.6 0.28 0.22 BRENT (US$/BBL.) 106.85 0.54 0.5 GOLD (COMEX) (US$/T OZ) 4,599.80 42.3 0.93 SILVER (COMEX) (US$/T OZ) 73.26 2.69 3.86 PLATINUM (US$/T OZ) 1,930.40 29.57 1.53 COPPER (COMEX) (US CENTS/LB.) 551.5 1.3 0.24 COPPER 3MO (LME) (US$/MT) 12,223.50 28.5 0.23 CORN (US CENTS/BU.) 455.75 0 0 WHEAT (US CENTS/BU.) 609.5 2.5 0.41 SOYBEAN OIL (CBOT) (US CENTS/LB.) 68.35 -0.12 -0.18 COCOA (ICE) (US$/MT) 3,175.00 20 0.63 RUBBER (S’PORE) (US CENTS/KG) 196.1 -2.1 -1.06World Stocks/CommoditiesAs at 6pm, Mar 31.STOCKS CLOSING (RM) +/- (%) VOLUME (’00) SNS-CR 0.015 -90.00 35,000 TM-C1Z 0.055 -76.09 500 OIB-WA 0.005 -75.00 9,699 SPSETIA-C1C 0.005 -75.00 15,907 SUNWAY-C51 0.005 -75.00 11,430 CDB-C72 0.045 -70.00 19,688 SUNWAY-C43 0.015 -62.50 1,271 AME-WA 0.005 -50.00 250 HSI-CWMJ 0.005 -50.00 2 SMTRACK 0.005 -50.00 3,020 YTLPOWR-C1E 0.005 -50.00 1,800 SUNWAY-C54 0.025 -44.44 25,687 IJM-C1R 0.015 -40.00 64,094 SUNWAY-C58 0.075 -40.00 166,545 KPJ-C24 0.025 -37.50 200 MEITUAN-C38 0.025 -37.50 2,250 SUNWAY-C57 0.045 -35.71 51,470 BMGREEN-WA 0.090 -33.33 601 CME 0.010 -33.33 30,000 GDEX-WC 0.010 -33.33 6Top 20 Losers (By %)STOCKS CLOSING (RM) +/- (RM) VOLUME (’00) MPI 28.780 +0.460 630 UTDPLT 34.000 +0.400 10,689 PPB 12.000 +0.340 11,606 HLIND 16.740 +0.240 1,405 MISC 8.440 +0.230 29,638 SOP 4.700 +0.230 23,615 CARLSBG 16.840 +0.200 855 MAXIS 3.600 +0.200 83,583 GASMSIA 6.000 +0.170 28,521 RHBBANK 8.440 +0.170 130,215 HSI-PWRB 0.775 +0.160 900 MAYBANK 11.360 +0.160 197,363 TAANN 5.430 +0.140 10,421 MEGAFB 1.060 +0.135 236,694 KGB 4.950 +0.130 26,644 NESTLE 99.120 +0.120 1,138 PJBUMI 2.750 +0.120 3,394 AEONCR 5.410 +0.110 2,093 KOSSAN 1.200 +0.110 406,339 BURSA 8.510 +0.100 5,698Top 20 Gainers (By RM)STOCKS CLOSING (RM) +/- (%) VOLUME (’00) EVD-PA 0.020 +300.00 4 BORNOIL 0.010 +100.00 449,452 KOSSAN-C90 0.030 +100.00 10,320 MPAY-WB 0.010 +100.00 429 NATGATE-C7 0.010 +100.00 1 PHB 0.010 +100.00 13,273 PERMAJU 0.010 +100.00 688 TRIVE-WD 0.010 +100.00 197 TOPGLOV-C5O 0.055 +83.33 49,996 KOSSAN-C89 0.035 +75.00 70,000 TOPGLOV-C5J 0.035 +75.00 3,129 KOSSAN-C86 0.025 +66.67 76,355 TOPGLOV-C5M 0.065 +62.50 106,738 KOSSAN-C91 0.120 +60.00 110,829 TOPGLOV-C5K 0.070 +55.56 240,634 AEON-C47 0.015 +50.00 1,000 ARMADA-C1J 0.015 +50.00 15,289 ARMADA-C1O 0.060 +50.00 12,101 DRBHCOMC3X 0.015 +50.00 13,100 MRCB-WB 0.015 +50.00 10,729Top 20 Gainers (By %)INDEX CHANGEFBMEMAS 12,304.30 +25.65 FBMKLCI 1,690.36 +2.46 CONSUMER PRODUCTS 504.52 +0.83 INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTS 182.90 -2.27 CONSTRUCTION 256.56 -4.28 FINANCIAL SERVICES 20,023.90 +174.88 ENERGY 797.54 -10.50 TELECOMMUNICATIONS 422.81 +2.65 HEALTH CARE 1,591.49 +47.47 TRANSPORTATION 1,002.11 +7.90 PROPERTY 1,103.48 +10.56 PLANTATION 8,984.23 -32.31 FBMSHA 12,117.20 -35.04 FBMACE 4,246.91 +2.12 TECHNOLOGY 50.51 -0.05 TURNOVER: 3.646 bil VALUE: RM3.968 bil1,690.36 pts Mar 31, 2026Bursa rebounds to end higher on selective buying interestSHARES on Bursa Malaysia reversed Monday’s losses to finish higher yesterday, driven by buying interest in healthcare, utilities and banking counters. At 5pm, the FBM KLCI increased 2.46 points or 0.15% to 1,690.36. The benchmark index opened 6.39 points firmer at 1,694.29 and moved between 1,688.98 and 1,695.77 throughout the day. The broader market was firmer, with gainers leading decliners 547 to 510. A total of 550 counters were unchanged, 1,060 untraded and 60 suspended. Rakuten Trade Sdn Bhd vice-president of equity research Thong Pak Leng said he remains cautious on the local bourse in the short term despite yesterday’s positive close, anticipating continued elevated market volatility globally. Among heavyweights, Maybank rose 16 sen to RM11.36, Public Bank climbed two sen to RM4.68, Tenaga Nasional erased 26 sen to RM13.90, CIMB increased seven sen to RM7.55, and IHH Healthcare was eight sen higher at RM8.98. On the most active list, Top Glove added six sen to 69 sen, Sunway Healthcare lost nine sen to RM2, Zetrix AI shed 1.5 sen to 74 sen, and Bumi Armada perked up 1.5 sen to 34.5 sen. Among top gainers, Malaysian Pacific Industries rose 46 sen to RM28.78, United Plantations added 40 sen to RM34, PPB garnered 34 sen to RM12, and Hong Leong Industries jumped 24 sen to RM16.74. As for top losers, Sunway Construction declined 48 sen to RM6.37, Sunway Bhd tumbled 40 sen to RM4.80, Petronas Dagangan slipped 32 sen to RM21.84, and Petronas Gas slid 26 sen to RM17.96. – Bernama +8.7544.06%41.20%14.74%+69.51-78.2631-March-2026
BIZ & FINANCEWEDNESDAY | APR 1, 202620SUNBIZ presents extracts of a selection of commentaries and research reports received from stockbrokers on counters that could be of interest to investors.THE ringgit and its regional peers continued to trade lower against the US dollar yesterday, as market sentiment remained fixated on the conflict in Iran and the elevated global energy crisis. At 6pm, the local currency fell to 4.0475/0520 against the greenback from Monday’s close of 4.0280/0350. Bank Muamalat Malaysia Bhd chief economist Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid said market sentiment remained guarded, with investors highly alert to developments in the West Asia conflict while awaiting a series of key data releases, including the US ISM Index for the manufacturing and services sectors later this week. “It will be interesting to see how business sentiment fares in March after enduring high fuel prices,” he added. He noted that Bank Negara Malaysia has released its latest macroeconomic forecast, with the country’s GDP growth at between 4% and 5% this year. At the close, the ringgit was traded lower against a basket of major currencies. It weakened against the British pound to 5.3484/3543 from 5.3311/3403 at Monday’s close, fell versus the Japanese yen to 2.5351/5381 as compared with 2.5237/5282 previously, and slipped vis-à-vis the euro to 4.6417/6468 from 4.6294/6374. The local currency also traded lower or flat against Asean currencies. It dropped versus the Singapore dollar to 3.1361/1399 from 3.1227/1284 registered at Monday’s close, weakened versus the Indonesian rupiah to 237.5/237.8 from 236.9/237.4, and eased against the Philippine peso to 6.66/6.67 from 6.63/6.65.Ringgit, regional currencies soften on West Asia, US data[Compiled by SunBiz Team DISCLAIMER: The information is extracted from stockbrokers’ commentaries and research reports and do not represent the views or opinions of Sun Media Corporation Sdn Bhd. It is not a solicitation, recommendation or an offer to buy or sell the equities featured. Sun Media Corporation shall not be liable or responsible for any consequences resulting from usage of the information.FOREIGN CURRENCY SELLING TT/OD BUYING TT BUYING OD 1 US Dollar 4.1125 3.9665 3.9565 1 Australian Dollar 2.8220 2.7080 2.6920 1 Brunei Dollar 3.1750 3.0750 3.0670 1 Canadian Dollar 2.9430 2.8600 2.8480 1 Euro 4.7030 4.5500 4.5300 1 New Zealand Dollar 2.3510 2.2640 2.2480 1 Singapore Dollar 3.1750 3.0750 3.0670 1 Sterling Pound 5.4070 5.2350 5.2150 1 Swiss Franc 5.1610 4.9400 4.9250 100 UAE Dirham 112.9800 107.0800 106.8800 100 Bangladesh Taka 3.4010 3.1700 2.9700 100 Chinese Renminbi 59.7300 57.1900 N/A 100 Danish Krone 64.5300 59.3700 59.1700 100 Hongkong Dollar 52.8900 50.2500 50.0500 100 Indian Rupee 4.4400 4.1200 3.9200 100 Indonesian Rupiah 0.0253 0.0223 0.0173 100 Japanese Yen 2.5880 2.4680 2.4580 100 New Taiwan Dollar N/A N/A N/A 100 Norwegian Krone 43.1800 39.7100 39.5100 100 Pakistan Rupee 1.5300 1.3700 1.1700 100 Philippine Peso 6.8600 6.4500 6.2500 100 Qatar Riyal 113.8000 108.0300 107.8300 100 Saudi Riyal 110.4800 104.8800 104.6800 100 South Africa Rand 24.6900 22.3000 22.1000 100 Sri Lanka Rupee 1.3700 1.1900 0.9900 100 Swedish Krona 44.1600 40.2200 40.0200 100 Thai Baht 13.0200 11.5400 11.1400Exchange Rates Source: Malayan Banking Bhd/BernamaPetronas keeping close tabs on Malaysia’s fuel supplyKUALA LUMPUR: Petroliam Nasional Bhd (Petronas) continues to closely monitor the nation’s fuel supply to help safeguard stability nationwide amid the ongoing crisis in West Asia. The national oil firm said even though Malaysia is an oilproducing nation, it is not fully insulated from the impact of the crisis. Nearly 40% of the country’s crude oil requirements transit through the Strait of Hormuz, the company said. Since the onset of the crisis, crude oil prices have risen by almost 40%. Consequently, global shipping costs, insurance premiums and delivery-related logistics have also increased significantly. All these developments have impacted Malaysia’s fuel supply security, Petronas noted. On the product side, national demand continues to exceed domestic supply. To address this shortfall, Petronas leverages its integrated value chain, working through its subsidiaries to secure sufficient petrol and diesel supplies to support its market share of nearly 50% through May 2026. The balance is being supplied by the other oil companies operating in Malaysia. Meanwhile, Petronas said the retail fuel prices in Malaysia are regulated by the government via the Automatic Pricing Mechanism. Despite global pressures, the government provides subsidies for RON95 and diesel to cushion the impact on rakyat, making fuel prices in Malaysia currently among the lowest in the region. “Petronas will continue to work closely with the government and relevant stakeholders to manage any potential disruptions and to prioritise the nation’s energy security and well-being.”MARKETS/FROM THE BROKERS KAWAN Renergy Bhd operates through its subsidiaries: Kawan Engineering Sdn Bhd, Kawan Green Energy Sdn Bhd, Kawan Environmental Sdn Bhd, Magenko Bio Energy Sdn Bhd and Magenko Renewable Asia Sdn Bhd. The group provides highquality engineering products and services, supported by continuous research and development, while offering a wide range of solutions to meet the diverse needs of industries, driving innovation, reliability, and sustainable growth. Q1’26 revenue rose by 4.0% QoQ and 51.3% YoY to RM44.4 million, mainly supported by stronger contributions from the process plant segment, which surged 176.5% QoQ (though still down 61.5% YoY), indicating a pickup in project execution. Industrial process equipment remained the core earnings driver at RM16.5m, broadly stable QoQ (-0.7%) and improving 14.3% YoY, underpinning base revenue resilience. Meanwhile, renewable energy and cogeneration declined 6.0% QoQ to RM22 million but recorded a sharp YoY expansion, suggesting lumpy recognition tied to project timing. Power generation and others remained negligible. Overall, the revenue mix continues to reflect a project-driven profile, with volatility largely stemming from timing of project recognition.The continued slowdown in orderbook replenishment is a key concern, as it raises execution risk and weakens earnings visibility heading into FY26, particularly given the project-based revenue model. With the orderbook falling below the RM100 million threshold, we view the current level as insufficient to sustain a stable earnings trajectory, as it implies a thinner pipeline of projects available for near-term conversion. Outperform with RM0.54 TP. – PublicInvest Research, March 31SD Guthrie is navigating a complex global landscape marked by the Middle East geopolitical tensions. Fertiliser costs, which account for 27–28% of direct costs, have been fully locked in for 2026. Diesel, comprising less than 5% of direct costs, remains a manageable risk in Malaysia but poses a higher threat to Indonesian operations due to reliance on diesel-powered mills. While direct exposure to the Middle East is limited (approx. 1 vessel/month to Europe), a prolonged conflict would cause the escalation of global bunker fuel charges and a delay in palm oil shipments, particularly for its Papua New Guinea operations. Management clarified that the recent government-linked company asset disposal rulings regarding 50% effective Bumiputera ownership are unlikely to curtail its existing projects, such as Eco Business Park 7 (SD Guthrie: 30% stake) and Eco Business Park 8 (SD Guthrie: 25% stake). Most partnerships have roped in state governments (10–20%) to mitigate the risks to equity requirements. The group has locked in about 42% of its Malaysian production for April–December 2026 at an average CPO price of RM4,400/mt, slightly below the current MPOB spot price of RM4,466/mt. The Malaysian Cabinet has recently approved a proposal from the Selangor state government to build the third international port on Carey Island after Northport and Westport. The move comes after Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim issued a directive for all relevant parties to accelerate progress on the Carey Island terminal. This is positive for SD Guthrie, which owns 79% of the island or 28,646 acres, as it has three pending land joint-venture deals there (Yayasan Selangor, Sime Darby Property, and IJM Corp). Outperform with RM6.79 TP. – PublicInvest Research, March 31TAH is guiding for FFB to grow by 12.6% YoY to 773k tonnes this year, supported by an expanding mature area (2,170 ha) and higher projected FFB yields of 17.14 tonnes/ha (vs 16.95 tonnes/ha in 2025). 2M26 production grew 7.2% YoY, aided by a shift to dry weather vs the prolonged rain seen in early 2025. We raise our FFB growth projections to 4.4-8.2%, from 1.2-7.6%, for FY26-28. Management expects FY26 unit costs to remain flattish at RM 2,000/tonne, on the back of volume expansion and lower 1H’26 fertiliser costs (-5% YoY). We cut our unit cost assumptions accordingly, by 5% for FY26 and by 2% for FY27-28. YTD, the CPO price has rallied 15.2%, averaging RM4,171/tonne. As a pure planter, TAH is highly sensitive to CPO prices, where every RM100/tonne change affects earnings by 12-15%. Should CPO prices be sustained at the current RM4,500/tonne level throughout FY26, our earnings estimates would increase by 30%. Should this pan out and assuming a dividend payout ratio of 70-80%, DPS could rise to 52 sen (from 40 sen currently), ie yield of 9.75% (vs 7.6% currently) Should CPO prices fall, TAH would be more susceptible to this change than its peers. 2M’26 log production surged 159% due to a low base effect, good weather, and higher logging quota. As such, we raise FY26-27 log output growth to 6.5-9.3%, from -0.5-5.3%. TAH is diversifying its plywood export footprint. As of Jan 2026, the geographical mix is split evenly between Japan and Yemen (from 95% to Japan previously). Management anticipates strong demand from Yemen, driven by post-conflict reconstruction needs.Neutral with RM4.95 TP. – RHB Research, March 31Ta Ann Holdings Bhd Neutral. Target price: RM4.95Kawan Renergy Bhd Outperform. Target price: RM0.54Source: PublicInvest Research Source: PublicInvest Research Source: BloombergSD Guthrie Bhd Outperform. Target price: RM6.79March 31, 2026: RM6.06March 31, 2026: RM0.425 March 31, 2026: RM5.42
Raya fashionSeason of bold expression, individuality – P22WEDNESDAY | APR 1, 2026EditorialT: 03-7784 6688 F: 03-7785 2625 E: [email protected] AdvertisingT: 03-7784 8888 E: [email protected] SCAN MEWEEKLYFOCUSMONDAYTechnology and social mediaTUESDAYFamily and parentingWEDNESDAYFashion and beautyTHURSDAYHomeand livingFRIDAYTravel and leisureSATURDAYFood and beveragep24 Tradition meets modernity on runway p25 Malaikat Malam trades speed for sentiment p26 BTS conquers UK albums, singles charts– PIC FROM INSTAGRAM @FARRAIZZY
LYFEWEDNESDAY | APR 1, 202622@thesundailyFOLLOW ON TWITTER Malaysian PaperRaya recappedEVERY Hari Raya, fashion has always been a visual language of celebration and renewal. While tradition continues to anchor the way Malaysians dress for Syawal, each year brings subtle shifts that reflect changing tastes, influences and confidence in personal style. This year, Raya 2026 leaned firmly into expression rather than playing it safe with predictable palettes and coordinated sets. Many embraced bold contrasts, experimental styling and statement details. The result was a season that felt fresher, more playful and unapologetically individual. Sweet take on colour One of the most distinctive trends this season was the rise of the “strawberry matcha” colour combination, thanks to the ever rising popularity of the drink among younger crowds. The pairing quickly gained traction across baju kurung, kebaya sets and even family ensembles, offering a modern refresh to the usual pastel tones associated with Raya. For content creator Farra Izzy, who embraced the strawberry matcha palette this Raya, the appeal was immediate. “I love how they feel both playful and elevated at the same time,” she told theSun. The trick to getting this combo to work boils down to the tones that you choose. Soft, muted green is paired with gentle blush pink, creating a palette that feels soothing and whimsical. Or go bold with neon pink paired with dark green to create a more expressive version that will turn heads in every room you walk in. What made this combination stand out was its balance. The green grounded the look, while the pink added a light and romantic touch. Together, they created a colour story that felt contemporary without straying too far from tradition. It was a subtle yet effective way of updating classic silhouettes for a new generation of wearers. Colour blocking returnsBeyond specific pairings, colour itself took centre stage in a bigger way Amir Imran embraces colour blocking alongside his mum. He pairs an earthy green baju Melayu with a rich-toned sampin while she complements the look in a deep-red ensemble with soft, elegant detailing. – PIC FROM THREADS @AMIR.IMRANOoFashion insights into this year’s Eid trends, showcasing season of bold expressionŰ BY ASHIQIN AHMADIman Troye stands out in a rich teal ensemble, embracing the season’s standout hue with a look that feels refreshing and effortlessly elegant. – PIC FROM INSTAGRAM @IMANTROYEHazirah Yusuff embraces bold patternon-pattern styling, pairing vibrant florals with checks for a striking, expressive outfit. – PIC FROM THREADS @HZYSFFAisya Retno leans into the shawl trend with a softly draped style over her head, creating a graceful silhouette that feels modern yet understated. – PIC FROM INSTAGRAM @AISHARETNO02through the return of colour blocking. Instead of relying on a single shade from head to toe, many opted to mix contrasting tones within one outfit. This could be seen in two-tone baju kurung sets, contrasting sleeves, or even bold skirt and top combinations that played with saturation and depth. Bright hues were no longer reserved for accents. They became the main event. The appeal of colour blocking lies in its ability to transform even the simplest design into something striking. A traditional cut, when paired with unexpected colour combinations, instantly feels more modern. It also allows wearers to personalise their look, choosing shades that reflect their mood rather than adhering to a single trend. Teal takes leadAmong the many colours seen this season, teal blue emerged as a clear favourite. Sitting somewhere between green and blue, the shade offered a refreshing alternative to more conventional Raya tones such as emerald or navy. Teal’s versatility made it especially appealing and it works across a variety of fabrics, from satin and chiffon to cotton and lace, and suited day and evening occasions. On men, it appeared in baju Melayu sets that felt polished yet contemporary. On women, it added depth and richness to flowing silhouettes. Its popularity also speaks to a broader shift towards cooler, more grounded tones that still feel vibrant without being overwhelming. Effortless drapingStyling this year moved away from rigid structures and leaned into ease. One of the most noticeable changes was how shawls were worn. Many opted to drape the shawl loosely over the shoulder or head, paired with an accented brooch to bring the whole outfit together. This approach created a softer silhouette and introduced a sense of movement to the overall look. It also allowed the outfit underneath to take centre stage, rather than competing with elaborate hijab styling. The appeal of this trend lies in its simplicity. It feels effortless, comfortable and adaptable, making it suitable for long days of visiting and hosting. At the same time, it adds a modern touch that aligns with the growing preference for understated elegance. Pattern-on-pattern playIf previous years favoured coordination and symmetry, Raya 2026 embraced controlled chaos through pattern-on-pattern styling. Instead of sticking to a single print, many experimented with layering different motifs within one outfit. Florals were paired with stripes, traditional batik-inspired patterns were combined with modern geometrics, and matching sets evolved into more dynamic combinations. While this approach requires a careful eye, it allowed for greater creativity and individuality. The key to making pattern-onpattern work lies in balance. Often, a shared colour palette or similar scale of prints help tie the look together. When done well, it creates a visually rich outfit that stands out without feeling overwhelming. This trend reflects a growing confidence among wearers to experiment and step outside of conventional style rules. Shift towards individuality Taken together, the trends of Raya 2026 point towards a broader shift in how people approach festive dressing. While tradition remains deeply respected, there is a growing willingness to reinterpret it through a more personal lens. Matching family outfits still exist, but they are no longer confined to identical colours or prints. Individuals are more open to mixing elements, experimenting with styling and expressing their own preferences within a shared theme. Social media has undoubtedly played a role in this evolution and for Farra, this shift is clear in how people are dressing this year. “For me, this Raya, I love that everyone is more expressive and confident in playing with colours. People aren’t afraid to experiment anymore, and it really shows in how creative and personal each outfit feels,” she said. She added that while specific colour trends may change, the mindset behind them is likely to stay. “As for whether this trend will stay, I think the specific colours might evolve, but the confidence and self-expression behind it will definitely continue.” The shift also reflects a deeper change in mindset, where fashion is seen less as a set of rules and more as a form of self-expression. Tradition reimaginedAt its core, Raya fashion has always been about more than aesthetics. It is tied to culture, memory and the act of coming together. What makes this year’s trends interesting is not just how they look but what they represent. Raya 2026 shows that tradition does not have to remain static. It can evolve, adapt and take on new forms while still retaining its meaning.
LYFEWEDNESDAY | APR 1, 202623Carlo Rino Oligopeptide Essence Milk Fragrant with a non-sticky consistency, but that is all its saving grace. For what feels like a luxury product – well packaged as one too – it does not perform like one. It does little for moisture. The bounciness of the skin after applying the product is nowhere, even if it is used overnight. It is dependant on a moisturiser to fully perform a moisture retainer. While it contains shea butter, it misses the key ingredient for a plump skin, which is hyaluronic acid. At a high price point, the essence milk is perhaps not a necessary addition to your skincare routine. Price: RM209 for 100g Rating: 1/5Ű BY VERONICA ELANKOVANKiehl’s Corrective Dark Spot SolutionA product that keeps its promises, and it does the one thing it is good at –correct dark spots and hyperpigmentation. It does not overpromise as the dark spots take at least a month to fade, and hyperpigmentation at least a year, with religious usage. The best time to use is after applying moisturisers and at targeted spots, as for the sensitive skin it may dry out the skin. Just enough to use before bed, it can also be used in the morning. But including this solution in your nighttime routine would suffice. Comes in three bottle sizes, the 30ml one will last you at least three months, making it more than enough. It sits at a higher price point, making it a luxury product, but it works miracles for the skin. Price: RM285 for 30ml, RM402 for 50ml and RM665 for 100ml Rating: 4/5Case Valker The luggage brand has expanded into offline retail with the opening of three stores in Klang Valley, with the new retail locations situated at Aurora Place, Sunway Square and Sunsuria Forum Mall. The move into brick-and-mortar retail allows customers to experience product features firsthand, compare sizes physically and receive personalised assistance before making travel purchases.Pull&Bear, Pavilion Kuala Lumpur Spanning 426 sq m, the space features refined and simplified decor, enhanced by a new adjustable clothing display structure that offers a wider view. Store interiors combine white textures, metallic finishes and luminous elements. Digital multiposition screens are also used to communicate in the store. With this new concept, Pull&Bear maintains the assisted selfcheckout system as part of the store’s digitisation process, as well as pick-up and drop-off points for order collection and returns.Kiztopia, Toppen Shopping Mall, Johor BahruThis marks Kiztopia’s third outlet in Malaysia since 2024 and its 22nd family edutainment centre across the Asia-Pacific region. Kiztopia is built around its core philosophy of “Play to Learn, Learn through Play”. The outlet features vibrant thematic play zones inspired by Kiztopia’s eight unique IP-registered characters, each designed to stimulate creativity, physical activity and social development. Children can explore large-scale interactive playground structures, role-play zones that spark imagination, obstacle courses that encourage physical agility and immersive activity areas that nurture teamwork and problem-solving skills.BUZZ SPOTSBreitling, The Gardens Mall The Swiss luxury watchmaker opens its fourth boutique at The Gardens Mall, in partnership with retail partner The Hour Glass. The new space embraces an industrial loft concept, featuring exposed brick walls and dark wood flooring. With a space of 30 sq m, the boutique showcases Breitling’s full range of collections. Extending beyond the interior, the boutique’s exterior is equally captivating, featuring illuminated lightbox visuals of Breitling’s ambassador.BEAUTY REVIEWS
LYFEWEDNESDAY | APR 1, 202624Models present creations by Yan Liang.Zara partners with John GallianoSPANISH fashion retailer Zara said recently it has entered into a two-year “artistic partnership” with controversial British designer John Galliano. The 65-year-old couturier will reconfigure pieces drawn from Zara’s past collections into new designs, the company said in a statement. “Guided by a haute couture process and approach, the collections will be unveiled each season throughout the duration of the partnership, starting in September 2026,” it added without giving further details. Zara is owned by Inditex, the world’s leading low-cost fashion retailer which posted a record annual profit in 2025 for the third year running. “To deliver fashion through that enormous platform – that, of course, that’s thrilling. And to be able to work with the kind of resources they have as well, that’s equally thrilling,” Galliano told fashion magazine Vogue. Galliano, who previously headed artistry at Givenchy and Christian Dior, has dressed countless celebrities during his tenure, including Kim Kardashian, Katy Perry and Zendaya for red-carpet events. Known for his flamboyant personality and daring designs, Galliano’s career suffered a dramatic setback in 2011 following a drunken rant in a Paris bar where he hurled antisemitic and racist insults at the other patrons. He was subsequently dismissed from Dior, underwent rehab in Switzerland and apologised for his behaviour during a visit to the Central Synagogue in London. Gibraltar-born Galliano returned to the fashion world in 2014 when he joined French label Maison Margiela as its creative director, a position he held until 2024. With fast-growing budget fashion retailer Shein taking share at the cheaper end of the market, Zara has moved to attract more discerning shoppers and offered more expensive clothing in recent years. – AFPGalliano is known for his flamboyant personality and daring designs. A dress created by Galliano for the fashion house Christian Dior from the Haute Couture 2006–2007 collection displayed at the exhibition ‘Louvre Couture, Art and Fashion: Statement Pieces’ at the Louvre Museum in Paris.Models present creations by GRZG Rongrong Guo.A model presents a creation by Max Hua. – ALL PICS FROM AFPLYFE’S LOOKBOOKCHINA Fashion Week’s Spring/Autumn 2026 edition centered on the theme of “fusion”, blending thousands of years of Chinese cultural heritage with modern, intelligent textile technology. Here are samples fresh from the runway:
LYFEWEDNESDAY | APR 1, 202625Street racing? Not so fastDIRECTED by Nazifdin Nasrudin, Malaikat Malamarrives with the promise of high-octane action set against the gritty backdrop of Malaysia’s street racing culture. However, what unfolds is something far more subdued with a romance-driven narrative that leans into emotion rather than adrenaline. Story that shifts gearsAt its core, the film follows Azam, played by Syafiq Kyle, whose journey intertwines with a visually impaired girl Ratna (Tracie Sinidol), in a story that prioritises connection over chaos. They meet after Azam nearly crashes into her with his motorcycle during an illegal race – Ratna seems very cool about it as she does not hold any grudges or anger over an incident that almost takes her life. They form a sweet bond over time as Azam develops a soft spot for her, longing to take care of her after finding out she lives alone and away from her father. Azam lives with his older brother Arash (Que Haidar) who was once a reigning professional motorsport champion but is now a shell of his former self, wasting away into his drug addiction. The audience never gets a glimpse into Arash’s backstory and how he got into addiction, which felt like such a missed opportunity to add lore into the story. While the premise hints at danger, speed and rebellion, the execution takes a different route, placing relationships and inner conflict at the forefront. This tonal direction may come as a surprise to viewers expecting a gripping action film. In fact, those expecting the intensity of street racing sequences might find themselves waiting for a payoff that never fully arrives. The film builds tension in parts, only to cut away before reaching a satisfying climax, leaving certain moments feeling incomplete. Unfinished threadsNarratively, Malaikat Malam shows promise but struggles with cohesion. Several plot twists are introduced with intrigue, yet they lack proper resolution, creating noticeable gaps in the storytelling. These unfinished arcs feel like missed opportunities and the film seems to expect audiences to overlook inconsistencies rather than confront them. In comparison to the OG rempit Azam picks up Ratna at her flat to go riding around the city on his motorcycle. oMoody love story Malaikat Malam trades speed for sentimentŰ BYASHIQIN AHMADRatna (left) and Azam live two completely different lives but form a deep connection with each other.films that boomed in the early 2000s such as KL Menjerit, which also blends romance with street culture, the difference becomes clearer. While both films place emotional stakes at the centre, KL Menjeritdelivers sharper pacing and more impactful racing sequences, resulting in a more balanced and polished narrative. Similarly, audiences familiar with the iconic 2006 Remp-It film may find Malaikat Malam misleading in tone. Where Remp-It leaned unapologetically into the raw and provocative nature of the rempitsubculture, this film opts for a softer, more restrained portrayal, shifting the focus away from its edgier roots. Visual, sonic winWhere the film truly shines is in its presentation. Visually, Malaikat Malam is striking, with carefully composed shots and editing style that elevate even its quieter moments. Night scenes, in particular, are handled with finesse, creating an atmospheric backdrop that complements the film’s introspective tone. The soundtrack also deserves recognition. Thoughtfully curated, the music enhances the emotional rhythm of the story, with tracks such as Sekuntum Bunga Sakura Di Gurun Sahara by Mega adding a nostalgic and almost poetic layer to key scenes. The synergy between sound and visuals helps anchor the film, even when the narrative falters. Syafiq carries the filmPerformance-wise, Syafiq stands out as the film’s strongest asset. His portrayal of Azam feels grounded and authentic, bringing depth to a character that could have easily felt underwritten. His dialogue delivery is natural and convincing, allowing audiences to connect with his internal struggles. The supporting cast, including Amir Nafis, Kodi Rasheed and Que Haidar, add texture to the story, each contributing to the film’s layered world. However, it is ultimately Syafiq who anchors the narrative and keeps it emotionally engaging. Promising but uneven debutAs the directorial debut of Nazifdin Nasrudin, the film reflects ambition and growing pains. Having previously worked as a writer on projects such as Sheriff: Narko Integriti and Malam Terlarang, this marks his first time taking full control behind the camera. While the film does not fully hit its stride, it remains a commendable effort, particularly when considering its likely budget constraints. There is a clear sense of vision, even if the execution is not always consistent. Like a new captain learning to navigate, Nazifdin shows potential and it may simply take time before he fully finds his rhythm. Final verdictMalaikat Malam is a film caught between expectations and intention. It teases action but delivers romance, offering a visually polished and emotionally driven experience that may not satisfy everyone. For those willing to embrace its slower, more introspective approach, the film offers moments of beauty and sincerity. But for audiences seeking high-impact thrills, it may feel like a ride that never quite reaches top speed.Arash struggles with his inner demons, barely clinging to his life due to his crippling addiction.Boy (Amir, right) is Azam’s rival in the racing scene –someone with a rich father and who often gets away with his crimes.MOVIE REVIEW0 Director:Nazifdin Nasrudin0 Cast: Syafiq Kyle, Tracie Sinidol, Amir Nafis, Kodi Rasheed, Que Haidar, Juzzthin, Akmal Asyraf, Riezman Khuzaimi, and Cat FarishPLOT7E-VALUE7ACTING9
LYFEWEDNESDAY | APR 1, 202626/theSunMediaFOLLOW ON YOUTUBE/Malaysian PaperBTS tops UK music charts K-POP stars BTS recently topped the UK music charts with its comeback album and its lead single going straight to number one. BTS, who went on hiatus in 2022 so that members could complete South Korea’s mandatory military service, released its 10th studio album Arirang last week, which its record label said sold nearly 4 million copies on its first day. Arirang topped the UK albums chart as well as the vinyl albums charts, the Official Charts Company said in a statement. The seven-member group, made up of Jimin, Jung Kook, Suga, RM, V, Jin and J-hope, also topped the UK singles chart for the first time with the album’s lead single Swim. From left: V, Jin, Jimin, Suga, Yoongi and JHope – PICS FROM AFP/BIGHIT MUSIC AND NETFLIXoK-pop band’s Arirang sells nearly 4 million on first dayElephant Kind unveils fresh album More Timesession with a semi-live DJ set, giving fans an early listen. The second, set for May, will be a full live showcase featuring the album alongside selected older tracks. Elephant Kind, made up of Bam, Bayu Adisapoetra and Kevin Septanto, continue to shape a sound that reflects its journey across cities and influences. Its work has gained attention across the region and beyond. With shows planned across Asia and a UK headline tour in September, the band continue to expand its reach with More Time. More Time tracklist includes Emotion, Plan, Exactly What I Needed, Hooked, The Ability to Listen Before You Speak, This Feeling, So Many Dayz, Love Scene, I Love The Cold Weather but Keep The Sun Around Longer, Man Enough, More Time and Strangest Thing.Elephant Kind steps into a new era with a bold, tailored aesthetic that mirrors the evolving sound of its latest album More Time.Malcolm Todd releases reflective new single BreatheAFTER a breakout 2025 that saw his first appearance on the Billboard Hot 100, millions of streams across his self-titled album and a sold-out international headline tour, Malcolm Todd kicked off 2026 with his new single Breathe. Co-produced by Todd, the track arrives alongside an official music video directed by longtime collaborator Aidan Cullen, signalling the start of a new chapter for the Los Angeles artiste and performer. At 22 years old, Todd has quickly emerged as one of alternative pop’s most compelling young artistes, hailed by Rolling Stone as a “knockout” and “a new kind of male pop star”. Released in 2025, his album Malcolm Todd has accumulated more than 600 million global streams since its release, propelled by the breakout single Chest Pain (I Love), which earned Todd his first Billboard Hot 100 entry and has tallied over 350 million streams worldwide. The song’s reach extended even further in 2026 when Don Toliver prominently sampled it on his hit E85, which climbed to number 15 on the Billboard Hot 100 and currently tops the Hot Rap Songs chart. The album’s momentum carried directly onto the stage. In 2025, Todd also completed the sold-out Wholesome Rockstar Tour, selling more than 85,000 tickets in the US before heading overseas for shows in London, Berlin, Paris and Australia. Standout festival sets at Camp Flog Gnaw, Pitchfork Paris, Lollapalooza and Austin City Limits have confirmed Todd as one of music’s most compelling young frontmen, performing with an easy charm that translates his breakout songs into crowd-sized moments. Along the way, fan favourites including Sweet Boy, Earrings and Roommates have continued to resonate widely, with all three still landing within Spotify’s Top 200 despite having come out two years ago.Todd’s strong year from 2025 will likely continue with Breathe. – PIC BY AIDAN CULLENBTS is credited for helping turn Korean pop music into a global phenomenon with its upbeat songs and dances, building a huge and loyal fan base around the world. INDONESIAN alt-pop trio Elephant Kind has returned with its third studio album More Time. Its most personal and expansive record yet, the album explores transformation, longing and the search for meaning in a fast-moving world as the band enters a new global phase. Developed between 2023 and 2025, More Time reflects a period of change for the band. Written between Jakarta and London, the record captures a key moment in its journey. Self-produced and mixed, it focuses on growth, honesty and moving forward while holding on to past lessons. “We’ve released songs here and there over the past few years, but this time we’re holding a complete record we truly believe in, finally on the horizon, ready to be received and heard by the world,” said Elephant Kind vocalist Bam Mastro. The title track More Time carries a hypnotic, late-night feel. Ambient vocals and introspective lyrics shape a moody, immersive sound that pushes the band further sonically. “More Time is hip hop, house, rock, Eastern, dance and more genres we can’t even put into words. A twist and turn of frequencies pulling you from one realm to the next. An innovation,” said Bam. More Time marks a shift and a continuation for the band. It blends alt-rock with breakbeats and softer ballads with dance-driven moments, showing a group more confident in its identity. The album was produced by Bam, with Iain Berryman co-producing three tracks including Man Enough. It was recorded in London and completed in Jakarta. Mixing was handled by Robert Adam Stevenson, with mastering by Christian Wright at Abbey Road Studios in London. To mark the release, the band announced Party of a Livetime, a twopart album launch in Jakarta. The first event was an intimate listening Arirang also topped albums charts in Australia and Germany. As part of its comeback, BTS recently performed to tens of thousands of fans in Seoul in its first concert in more than three years. Authorities shut down the city’s historic downtown, though turnout was far smaller than expected. The hour-long outdoor concert in Gwanghwamun Square was streamed live on Netflix, and drew 18.4 million viewers worldwide, the streaming platform said. The broadcast ranked among Netflix’s weekly Top 10 in 80 countries and topped the chart in 24 countries, it said. BTS, who kick off a global tour starting next month, made its debut in 2013 and helped turn Korean pop music into a global phenomenon with its upbeat songs and dances, building a huge and loyal fan base around the world. – ReutersOn stage in the UK, Elephant Kind channels raw energy and atmosphere, bringing its genre-blurring sound to an international crowd.
SPORTSWEDNESDAY | APR 1, 202627TIGER WOODS (pic below) is still scheduled for an appearance at the Masters, despite being arrested on Friday. The golf icon was involved in a crash in which he flipped his vehicle on its side and was charged with driving under the influence, property damage and refusal to submit to a lawful test. Woods went to jail following his arrest and spent eight hours locked up before being released. The 50-year-old emerged without injury and was forced to crawl out of the passenger side door after attempting to overtake a truck towing a pressure cleaner trailer “at a high rate of speed”. The 15-time major winner is in line to be in attendance at Augusta for an event with Masters chairman Fred Ridley. Woods is scheduled to take part in a celebration of a project at “The Patch”, a municipal golf course where Woods’ design team created a short course to go alongside a major upgrade to the public course. Woods was working his way back to full fitness and had not ruled out the prospect of playing at the Masters next month. The superstar has not featured on the PGA Tour since July 2024 and missed the entirety of the major season last year due to an Achilles injury, and underwent back surgery in October. Former European Ryder Cup captain Paul McGinley is not expecting to see him competing at the Masters, however. He told Sky Sports News: “I would think so. I would say his whole life is in turmoil at this moment in time. “I’d be surprised if we see him at the Masters. I think he’s got much bigger challenges going on than whether he plays in the Masters or not at the moment. A whole reconsideration of how he’s living his life and the challenges he has (is in order). “He is obviously coming back from serious injury again – last year he had more back surgery – and he’s recovering from that. “He played in the TGL match during the week, and it was the first time we’d seen him competitively, even though it was an indoor game. His speeds were right up there; it was incredible how fast he was swinging the golf club. “And although he walked with a bit of a limp because of the serious car crash he had a few years ago, he looked to be heading toward playing. But I think this is really going to set him back.” – Express NewspapersIN THE MATTER OFTHE COMPANIES ACT 2016ANDIN THE MATTER OFDUNIA LANTAS SDN. BHD.Company No. 199501014905 (344106-H) (IN MEMBERS’ VOLUNTARY WINDING UP)NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to section439 of the Companies Act 2016 that theSpecial Resolution set out below was dulypassed by the members of the Companyat the Extraordinary General Meeting dulyconvened at No. 43 (First Floor), JalanSarikei, Off Jalan Pahang, 53000 KualaLumpur on Wednesday, 01 April 2026:-“SPECIAL RESOLUTION - MEMBERS’VOLUNTARY WINDING UPThat the Company be wound up voluntarilypursuant to section 439 of the CompaniesAct 2016 (“the Act”) and that Mr. Lim PohJoo @ Lim Poh Bee of No. 43 (First Floor),Jalan Sarikei, Off Jalan Pahang, 53000Kuala Lumpur be and is hereby appointedLiquidator for the purpose of such windingup.That the Liquidator be authorised pursuant tosection 456 of the Act to exercise the powerspecified under the Eleventh Schedule in a voluntary winding up.That the Liquidator be authorised todistribute either in cash, specie or in kindany surplus assets of the Company as hethinks fit to the contributory of the Companyin accordance with his respective rights andinterests therein.”Dated this 1st day of April, 2026LAU CHUN CHEAKMAICSA 7054237Secretary IN THE MATTER OFTHE COMPANIES ACT 2016ANDIN THE MATTER OFDUNIA LANTAS SDN. BHD.Company No. 199501014905 (344106-H) (IN MEMBERS’ VOLUNTARY WINDING UP)NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the creditorsof the abovenamed Company which isbeing wound up voluntarily are required onor before 02 May 2026 to send their namesand addresses with particulars of their debtsor claims and the names and addresses oftheir solicitors (if any) to the undersigned,the Liquidator of the said Company; and ifso required in writing from the said, are bytheir solicitors or personally to come in andprove their debts or claims at such time andplace as shall be specified in such notice orin default thereof they will be excluded fromthe benefits of any distribution made before such debts are proven.Dated this 1st day of April, 2026LIM POH JOO @ LIM POH BEELiquidatorNo. 43 (First Floor), Jalan Sarikei,Off Jalan Pahang, 53000 Kuala Lumpur.322 NoticesJob Descriptiont#VJMEJOHBOETVTUBJOJOHTUSPOHXPSLJOHSFMBUJPOTIJQXJUIBEWFSUJTJOHBHFODJFTBOEDMJFOUTt/FXCVTJOFTTEFWFMPQNFOUBOECVTJOFTTSFUFOUJPOt$PODFQUVBMJTFQMBOBOEFYFDVUFDSFBUJWFBOEJOOPWBUJWFNBSLFUJOHDBNQBJHOTUPFOIBODFCSBOEWJTJCJMJUZBOEFOHBHFNFOUt$SFBUFEFWFMPQBOEDPOUJOVPVTMZJNQSPWFNBSLFUJOHNBUFSJBMQSFTFOUBUJPOTBOEQSPQPTBMTUIBUTIPXDBTFPVSQSPEVDUTTFSWJDFTFGGFDUJWFMZRequirementst41.MFWFMXJUIBUMFBTUUXPZFBSTPGFYQFSJFODFt%JQMPNBPS#BDIFMPSTEFHSFFJOCVTJOFTTNBSLFUJOHPSPUIFSSFMBUFEGJFMETt'SFTIHSBEVBUFTBSFFODPVSBHFEUPBQQMZUSBJOJOHXJMMCFQSPWJEFEt(PPEDPNNVOJDBUJPOQSFTFOUBUJPOQSPCMFNTPMWJOHBOEPSHBOJTBUJPOBMTLJMMTt1BTTJPOBUFJODMJFOUTFSWJDJOHt1PTTFTTPXOUSBOTQPSUBOEXJMMJOHUPUSBWFMt\"CMFUPTUBSUXPSLJNNFEJBUFMZOfficebased in Petaling Jaya(Five-day week)MEDIA SALES - SpecialistSend in your CV with your photo via email to : [email protected] SALES -Representative/Agent (Freelance)Requirementt.JOJNVNPOFZFBSTBMFTFYQFSJFODFJODMBTTJGJFEBEQSJOUBOEEJHJUBMBEWFSUJTJOHt5IPTFXJUIPVUTBMFTFYQFSJFODFCVUXJUINFEJBBEWFSUJTJOHLOPXMFEHFNBZBMTPBQQMZt\"UUSBDUJWFDPNNJTTJPOQBDLBHFBOEJODFOUJWFTt\"CMFUPTUBSUJNNFEJBUFMZt$FOUSBM/PSUIFSO4PVUIFSO&BTU$PBTUBOE4BCBI4BSBXBLIN THE MATTER OF THECOMPANIES ACT, 2016ANDIN THE MATTER OFCONSOLINK SDN. BHD. [Co. No. 200401036906(675417-W)](In Members’ Voluntary WindingUp)At an General Meeting of theCompany duly convened and heldat Suite A, B-03-15, Jalan Ekoflora 7/1, Pusat Perdagangan Ekoflora,Taman Ekoflora, 81100 JohorBahru, Johor on 30 March 2026 thefollowing Special Resolutions were duly passed:-1.THAT the Company be wound upvoluntarily pursuant to Section439(1)(b) of the Companies Act,2016. 2.THAT Mr. Lim Choong Kiat ofDH735, 81500 Pekan Nenas,Johor be and is hereby appointedas Liquidator of the Company forthe purpose of such winding up.Dated this 01 April 2026WONG KAM FOOKDirectorIN THE MATTER OF THECOMPANIES ACT, 2016ANDIN THE MATTER OFCONSOLINK SDN. BHD. [Co. No. 200401036906(675417-W)](In Members’ Voluntary WindingUp)NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT thecreditors of the Company, which is being voluntarily wound up, are required on or before 01 May2026 to send in their names andaddresses with the particularsof their debts or claims, and thenames and addresses of theirsolicitors, if any, to the undersigned,the Liquidator of the Company, andif so required by notice in writingfrom the said Liquidator, are by theirsolicitors or personally, to comein and prove their debts or claimsat such time and place as shall bespecified in such notice or in defaultthereof they shall be excluded fromthe benefits of any distributionmade before such debts or claimsare proved.Dated this 01 April 2026Lim Choong KiatLiquidatorSuite A, B-03-15, Jalan Ekoflora 7/1,Pusat Perdagangan Ekoflora,Taman Ekoflora,81100 Johor Bahru, Johor302 Jobs 322 NoticesIN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT,2016 AND IN THE MATTER OFJMX (TECHNOTRADE) SDN. BHD. (202101024284 (1424584-W))(In Members’ Voluntary Liquidation)NOTICE OF RESOLUTIONNOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT at anExtraordinary General Meeting of JMX(TECHNOTRADE) SDN. BHD. duly convenedand held at Venue: GOOGLE MALAYSIA SDN. BHD., of Physical Address at Axiata Tower, Level 20, 9, Jalan Stesen Sentral 5, KualaLumpur Sentral, 50470 Kuala Lumpur, FederalTerritory of Kuala Lumpur and Meeting hostedvirtually at https://meet.google.com/eduuufr-mes on 26th March, 2026, the followingSpecial Resolution was duly passed -(a)That the Company be placed in voluntary liquidation and that Mr. Wong Chee Siong ofCS Wong & Co, Suite 13-10, Level 13, JohorBahru City Square (Office Tower), 106-108,Jalan Wong Ah Fook, 80888 IIBD, Johor beappointed as the Liquidator of the Companyfor the purpose of such winding-up;(b)That the Liquidator be authorised todistribute either in cash or in specieamongst the contributories, the assetsof the Company in accordance with theirrespective rights and interests therein; and(c)That unless caused or contributed by wilfuldefault or negligence of the Liquidator, theLiquidator be indemnified by the Companyagainst all costs, charges, losses, expensesand liabilities incurred in or sustained byhim in the execution and discharge of hisduties as Liquidator and in relation thereto.Johor Bahru1st April, 2026TAN MING XIONG, JASMENDirectorNOTICE TO CREDITORSNOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the creditorsof the abovenamed Company which is beingwound up voluntarily are required on or before 4th May, 2026 to send in their names andaddresses with particulars of their debts orclaims and the names and addresses of theirsolicitors (if any) to Mr. Wong Chee Siong ofCS Wong & Co, Suite 13-10, Level 13, JohorBahru City Square (Office Tower), 106-108,Jalan Wong Ah Fook, 80888 IIBD, Johor, theLiquidator of the said Company and, if sorequired by notice in writing from the saidLiquidator, are, by their solicitors or personally, to come in and prove their said debts or claimsat such time and place as shall be specified insuch notice or in default thereof they will beexcluded from the benefit of any distributionmade before such debts are proved.Johor Bahru1st April, 2026WONG CHEE SIONGLiquidator302 Jobs 322 NoticesSCAN MEWEDNESDAY APR 1, 2026TEL: 03-7784 6688 FAX: 03-7785 2625 EMAIL: [email protected] still on for Augusta TEENAGE sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi lived up to the hype with a 17-ball 52 as Rajasthan Royals thrashed Chennai Super Kings by eight wickets in their opening IPL match yesterday. Fifteen-year-old Suryavanshi smacked four fours and five sixes in his batting blitz as Rajasthan chased down a victory target of 128 with 7.5 overs to spare in Guwahati. Suryavanshi was the talk of world cricket after making history in last year’s Indian Premier League aged just 14 in a dazzling debut season which included a 35-ball century. The left-handed batsman, who turned 15 last week, survived a dropped catch on the first ball he faced but soon found his groove to pummel the attack. Suryavanshi said his birthday on Friday, March 27 was low key as he “went to sleep early” to avoid cake smearing. On his attacking play, he said, “I do think about defence, but today our plan was to control the game in the powerplay because in a small chase, that phase is crucial.” He raced to his fifty in 15 balls with two sixes off Afghanistan left-arm wrist spinner Noor Ahmad to the noise approval of the home crowd. Suryavanshi fell when Sarfaraz Khan took a good diving catch in the deep off medium-pace bowler Anshul Kamboj. The prodigy has been in red hot form as he starred for India in their U-19 World Cup win in Harare last month, smashing a record-breaking 175 off 80 balls in the final against England. Rajasthan’s other opener Yashasvi Jaiswal stood firm to hit an unbeaten 38 as he and skipper Riyan Parag, who made 14, steered the team home in 12.1 overs. Rajasthan, who won the inaugural IPL in 2008 under late Australia spin legend Shane Warne, elected to field first and their bowlers set up victory. Fast bowlers Jofra Archer, Nandre Burger and left-arm spinner Ravindra Jadeja took two wickets each to bundle out five-time champions Chennai for 127 in 19.4 overs. India’s T20 World Cup hero Sanju Smason was bowled by South African Burger for six on his Chennai debut and Archer rattled the stumps of skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad, for six. Chennai’s batting crumbled with No. 8 Jamie Overton making the total respectable with his 43 off 36 balls. Archer returned impressive figures of 2-19, while Burger claimed 2-26 and was named player of the match. “One good thing is, a lot of youngsters in the group, so, probably a nervy start for everyone, but good to get a game behind and good to start with lot of mistakes,” said Gaikwad. “Hopefully it will be just improvement after here.” Chennai veteran MS Dhoni is recovering from a calf strain and likely to be out for the first two weeks of the T20 tournament scheduled to end on May 31. –AFPSuryavanshi shines for RoyalsRajasthan Royal’s Vaibhav Suryavanshi in action against CSK yesterday. – REUTERSPIC
SPORTSWEDNESDAY | APR 1, 202628Top two battle for tennis supremacySinner’s ‘Sunshine Double’ sends clear message to world No . 1 AlcarazA MONTH ago, Jannik Sinner arrived at Indian Wells with a point to prove and ground to make up. A month later, the Italian departed Miami with a historic “Sunshine Double” complete and a clear target in his sights. With a 6-4, 6-4 victory over Jiri Lehecka at the Hard Rock Stadium on Sunday, Sinner became just the eighth man to win Indian Wells and the Miami Open back-to-back. He also became the first man ever to do so without losing a single set, a run of form at the Masters events that stretches back to a third title in Paris last November. The 24-year-old joins Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal as the only players to win three consecutive Masters titles, though Sinner’s record in doing so has been imperious. Sinner’s quest to defend the Australian Open title and deny his rival Carlos Alcaraz the opportunity to complete the career grand slam was surprisingly ended by Novak Djokovic in five epic sets in Melbourne. He did not panic when that disappointment was followed by a semifinal defeat to Jabuk Mensik in Doha; acknowledging he was experiencing a “small down” following what was a stellar run of results on the hard-courts to end the 2025 season was as alarmist as it gets from the usually stoic World No. 2. The “Sunshine Double” presented Sinner with the chance to reset, however. The Wimbledon champion missed both tournaments last year while serving his three-month doping suspension, which meant he had no points to defend from last season. With Alcaraz stretching his enormous lead over Sinner at the top of the rankings, the Italian had identified Indian Wells and Miami as “important” events to claw himself in range of the World No. 1. “We had very, very long practice days, a lot of hours,” Sinner told the Tennis Channel. “In five weeks I had one day off, before Indian Wells, and one tennis day off in Miami because it was raining. So a lot of sessions.” While Sinner did not need to face Alcaraz at either tournament, with the Spaniard knocked out by Daniil Medvedev in the Indian Wells semifinals before he was upset by Sebastian Korda in the third round of Miami, his serve has gone to another level. His coaching team, led by Simone Vagnozzi and Darren Cahill, have continued to make tweaks to Sinner’s serve even as he has become the most consistent hard-court player in the world and a four-time grand slam champion, a process he said required a lot of “trust and belief”. “Being young and winning big titles, then to change (the serve), you need to be mentally quite open,” Sinner explained to the Tennis Channel. “But I want to finish my career saying I did everything possible to be the best possible version of myself. If I see these results, it’s amazing. If I serve the same way I did a couple of years ago, maybe I would not win. “So I always try to improve and understand what’s going well and what’s not. To do so you need to have a very honest team behind you even when things are going in the right direction, to say ‘no, this doesn’t suit you very well’, or, ‘we need to change this’. “I’m someone who doesn’t wait. I’m happy to do it during tournaments sometimes. And that is for sure one of my secrets. Everyone is different but this is just how I see the sport.” In Miami, Sinner would reach his best level in decisive moments. He emerged with his run of consecutive sets unscathed after tight second-set tiebreaks against Alexander Zverev in the semifinals and Alex Michelsen in the fourth round. But he could also suck the spirit from his opponents if he found the early break in sets, such as against Frances Tiafoe in the quarterfinals and in the rain-interrupted final against Lehecka. “He’s a great front runner and that was the biggest issue today,” Tiafoe said after his 6-2, 6-2 defeat. But for the next few weeks, Sinner will also be chasing. While he does not have long to prepare for the opening tournament of the clay-court season in Monte Carlo, he does not have any ranking points to defend until he returns to his home tournament in Rome in May, putting the World No. 2 in a great position to further reduce Alcaraz’s advantage. Alcaraz, meanwhile, has 2,390 more points to defend than Sinner through to the end of Roland Garros. “Now we go to clay, and we all know how strong he is there,” Sinner said. “Let’s see what’s coming.” – The Independent F1 star Colapinto abused online after Suzuka crashFRANCO COLAPINTO has been the subject of online “hate” following Ollie Bearman’s highspeed crash in Sunday’s Japanese Grand Prix, according to his management. Colapinto’s Alpine was in front of Bearman’s Haas in Lap 22 of the 53-lap race when the catastrophe struck. Bearman attempted to overtake Colapinto, but his car instead ended up on the grass before spinning and crashing out at the Spoon Curve. Having hit the barrier on the outside of the corner, Bearman was able to move himself from the car but was seen limping as he made his way from the track and then transferred to the circuit’s Medical Centre. The Brit was later given the all-clear after an X-ray revealed he had not suffered any fractures. The impact of Bearman’s crash was recorded at 50G, with the Haas driver going at 308kph when he lost control of his car before crashing. Some have blamed the crash on the new Formula 1 regulations, which has seen huge speed differences between drivers in close proximity. This has been put down to battery management, with Max Verstappen describing it as like “Mario Kart”. But despite this, Colapinto’s management has confirmed that he has been blamed for the incident, with some fans giving him “hate” on social media. Bullet Sports Management said: “A race to forget. Franco was doing a great job before he got unlucky with the timing of the Safety Car, which ruined his chances of fighting for points. “We also can’t ignore the incident that led to Ollie Bearman’s crash, one in which Franco was not at fault. It was a consequence of the new energy management rules, as confirmed by the FIA’s official statement. Despite this, Franco is receiving unjustified criticism and hate, so let’s show him all the love and support he deserves.” When asked by a fan to speak about threats Colapinto was receiving, Bullet replied: “We don’t have any influence over any other driver’s fans, and chances are they don’t even follow us. “It’s not our responsibility to worry about their fandoms. We leave that to their teams and people. We’re grateful that the majority of Franco’s fans are kind and supportive.” Bullet added: “Guys, don’t worry. Franco is in great hands and has all the support he needs.” –Express NewspapersMERCEDES CHIEF Toto Wolff has said he is in “two minds” about the possibility of Christian Horner returning to F1. Horner is looking to return to the sport after being sacked as Red Bull principal in July. He was linked with a move to Aston Martin, but they have opted to appoint Jonathan Wheatley instead. Horner has also been linked with the possibility of acquiring a 24% of shares in Alpine as part of a group of investors. It, however, seems that he will again be going up against Wolff and Mercedes. The team are looking at buying private investment firm Otoro Capital’s shares in the team. Speaking to the Press Association, Wolff cast doubt over Horner’s return to the sport and gave an update on the possible investment. “He (Horner) has broken quite a lot of glass, and these things have repercussions in our microcosm. When you say things… “But that is what he has done all his life, and that is what he knows best,” Wolff said. “Us looking at that stake is in no connection with Christian. And the idea that there is a rivalry between Christian and me around who buys an Alpine stake is made up. “It would be quite sad if that was a consideration of doing such an investment or not. We are looking at it from different angles, and we haven’t come to any conclusions. We want to know whether it makes sense.” Going deeper into his doubts surrounding Horner, Wolff has given his honest verdict on a possible return to the paddock. He added: “I am in two minds about it (Horner returning to F1). “The sport is missing personalities. And his personality was clearly very controversial and that is good for the sport. “I said to (Ferrari team principal) Fred Vasseur that it needs ‘the good, the bad, and the ugly’. And it is now only the good and the ugly left. The bad is gone. Would I consider that he could ever be an ally or someone that shares objectives? I don’t think so. “But even when I had the biggest frustration, and anger with him, you need to remind yourself that even your worst enemy has a best friend so there must be some goodness. “If there wasn’t that competitive rivalry over so many years, and if there was more water down the river, I am sure I could have hunged with him over dinner and a had a laugh. “Over those years it was just too intense, too fierce, and things happened which even today I cannot comprehend why he has done them. “I don’t know if he is finding his way back, and in which function. I certainly don’t wish him bad. And we need to give each other credit. There are not many team principals who have done what he has done. “I see a situation that whatever happens, whatever outcomes there may be, whether he comes back to Formula One or not, I am at ease with it.” –Express NewspapersŰ BY JAMIE BRAIDWOODWolff cast doubt over Horner’s F1 returnMercedes’ Toto Wolff reflects on the possible return of rival Christian Horner (inset) amidst growing speculation. – AFPPIC/REUTERSPIC
SPORTSWEDNESDAY | APR 1, 202629GrowingpainsWirtz lifts lid on how first-season struggles at Liverpool have changed himLIVERPOOL playmaker Florian Wirtz believes the struggles he encountered after making the move to Anfield have made him stronger. The 22-year-old Germany international arrived in a £116 million (RM615m) deal from Bayer Leverkusen as one of Europe’s hottest young talents but bedding into a team which underwent a £450 million (RM2.4b) overhaul proved difficult. Wirtz struggled with the physicality but a tailored strength and conditioning programme designed to make him more robust for the Premier League helped get him through. After failing to score in his first 22 appearances, he enjoyed a run of six in 10 matches from Boxing Day, although he has since gone eight games without scoring. But his overall success is not entirely in his own hands as he has created over 70 chances in the Premier League and Champions League this season but the underperforming team has failed to capitalise. “It wasn’t an easy phase,” Wirtz, speaking about his first few months in England, told German television show Sportschau. “It’s sometimes good that things don’t always go upwards and that you experience a dip and grow stronger because of it. “That’s how I see it now as well – it has made me a bit stronger. I had to overcome resistance and adapt. I had to learn to become stronger and hold onto the ball.” While his domestic form may have dipped again, he showed his quality in Germany’s 4-3 win over Switzerland on Friday – with two goals and two assists – and he credited national team boss Julian Nagelsmann with helping him during his tough transitional phase. “The coach always supported me during the difficult phase after my move to Liverpool and always had an open ear for me,” he added. “He gave me tips and reassured me. That has brought us closer together.” Wirtz’s assessment was one shared by Nagelsmann himself, with the Germany boss claiming their relationship grew closer as a result. Nagelsmann revealed last week that Wirtz had opened up a “great deal” during the period, with the pair having “many good conversations”. “He’s an intelligent, totally open guy, so you get a lot back in a conversation like that,” Nagelsmann said. “Of course, you can take a lot away from it and will be stronger than ever before, because it’s also part of personal development that things don’t always go in one direction.” Wirtz played an hour for Germany in yesterday’s 2-1 win over Ghana in a friendly, with the attacking midfielder expected to have a key role for the national team at the World Cup. The 22-year-old will first turn his attentions to helping Liverpool qualify for next season’s Champions League, as well as an upcoming FA Cup quarterfinal against Man City on Saturday. – The Independent/ AgenciesHodgson says surprise return to management only short-termFORMER England boss Roy Hodgson says his surprise return to management at Championship side Bristol City will not extend beyond this season. Hodgson was hired as City’s interim manager last week following the sacking of Gerhard Struber. The 78-year-old had been out of football since leaving Crystal Palace in February 2024. Hodgson’s return to Ashton Gate, 44 years after a brief stint in charge of City, has taken him into half a century of football management. After his first job at Swedish club Halmstad in 1976, his much-travelled career has included spells in charge at Liverpool, Inter Milan, Fulham and Udinese among other clubs. Hodgson also had four turbulent years in charge of England, which ended in the disappointment of a shock Euro 2016 exit against Iceland. Asked if he could be convinced to extend his return to management beyond this season, Hodgson told reporters yesterday: “I think it was the fact that it was a short-term project, a shortterm appointment. “After the club made their decision to change, I think they were looking for someone who could step in and was prepared to do a job for seven games. “Of course that appealed to me, because I have retired from the real maelstrom of working as a professional coach again, but I thought that I could manage five weeks - and I might even look forward to the five weeks, which has been the case so far.” Hodgson insisted he had no interest in a sporting director role at City, saying: “No, I am too old. “I hope to get some enjoyment from being here, to re-energise myself a little bit by being back on the grass and being back with players, something which has always been what I have wanted to do.” Hodgson takes over with City 16th in the Championship after six league games without a win. His first match in charge of the Robins will be at Charlton on Saturday. “For me, it is going to be what happens on the pitch. I am here to coach the team and try and help the team to get results,” Hodgson said. “I will only be satisfied if the people watching the team can see that is going on.” – AFPTHOMAS TUCHEL knows Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka’s England withdrawals amid a spate of Arsenal pullouts may look suspicious to some but stressed the injured duo were desperate to feature against Japan. The German coach picked an expanded 35-man squad for the final camp before he makes his World Cup selection, with the first wave of players joined by 11 established names on Friday. Rice and Saka were among those arrivals and surprisingly left the following day, as did Arsenal teammate Noni Madueke after he sustained an injury in the 1-1 friendly draw against Uruguay. The fact 10 of the Premier League leaders’ players have left their respective national teams has raised suspicions of club matters taking precedence over country, but Tuchel dismissed such talk. “They joined, had a medical assessment, wanted desperately to play, to just get the narrative straight,” he said ahead of this morning friendly against Japan. “Wanted desperately to be involved. “But it made just no sense to take this risk. If it would have been maybe a last game of the season, we would have kept them and tried everything. But in this moment of the season, it did not make sense. The risk for making it worse was just way too big.” Tuchel, who says England were aware of the pair’s “issues” after Arsenal’s Carabao Cup final, added: “I understand the look of it. I still have 100% trust in the honesty of Bukayo and Declan. We did medical tests. I saw them. “I have no reason to believe that Declan is not honest with me. I have no reason to believe Bukayo is not honest. But given the amount of Arsenal players, I understand the look.” Rice, who Tuchel says feels 70% fit, had a session with Jude Bellingham on the pitch but complained of discomfort, while Saka did two sessions in the gym in a bid to prove his fitness. “They both came,” he said. “Declan was even out on the pitch. He did not come and say ‘guys, I’m going home’. “I heard there were camps (in the past) where players did not even show up with boots and stuff. Then it becomes, OK… but they both came.” – The IndependentTuchel dismisses club over country talkŰ BY SIMON PEACHSIDENETTINGNo asterisk next to Milner’s record GARETH BARRY has expressed his dismay at no longer being the answer to a popular football quiz question, following James Milner’s recent surpassing of his Premier League appearance record. Milner, a former teammate of Barry at Aston Villa and Manchester City, made his 654th Premier League appearance last month during Brighton’s victory over Brentford. This landmark moment saw him eclipse the record Barry had held since 2017. What makes Milner’s feat particularly notable is that he achieved it having played a remarkable 13,874 fewer minutes than Barry – an equivalent of over 150 matches. Despite this significant difference in playing time, Barry has been quick to dismiss any suggestion that it diminishes the validity of Milner’s impressive accomplishment. “No, there should be no asterisk!” the 45-year-old said. “It was nice for other stats to come out on the back of James passing the appearance record. “But we had slightly different careers. The game has changed, it’s really become a bit more of a squad game. “There’s five subs now. James had a great period of time at Liverpool. He wasn’t going to start every game, but he was always involved in the squads and that’s probably where our careers differed slightly. “He’s an ex-teammate at two of my clubs, and also England, I know him exceptionally well. “And he’s got to where he is for one reason: he’s a proper professional, a very underrated player, and literally is squeezing everything out of his body, because he takes everything to the limit.” Anderson focused on England NOTTINGHAM FOREST midfielder Elliot Anderson is firmly focused on securing his place in England’s World Cup squad, despite swirling rumours of a colossal £100 million (RM530m) transfer to Manchester City. The 23-year-old, who has enjoyed a brilliant two years at the City Ground, appears virtually guaranteed a spot on the plane to the World Cup, and he insists this is his sole concentration. “Obviously we’ve got the World Cup this year so all my eyes are on that,“ Anderson said. “Playing for England, I’ve got the badge on now so that’s all I’m thinking about at the moment. “I want it that way (to be guaranteed a start). But I’ve got a season left with Forest. I’ve got plenty of games and there’s plenty of time until then. I’ve got to keep my standards high and make sure that happens.” Anderson has established himself as a key player, making himself first choice in Thomas Tuchel’s side after just six appearances before Christmas, forging a strong partnership with Declan Rice. Anderson credits Rice with being influential in his international development. “It’s a really good partnership. Since I’ve come in, he’s made me feel comfortable, he’s helped me learn on the job,” he explained. “He’s full of energy to help me and the relationship on the pitch is really good. (He’s helped me) on and off the pitch.”Germany’s Florian Wirtz (centre) in action with Ghana’s Jonas Adjetey (right) during their International Friendly match at MHPArena in Stuttgart yesterday. – REUTERSPIC
SPORTSWEDNESDAY | APR 1, 202630Germany’s Deniz Undav celebrates 2-1 victory over Ghana in Stuttgart yesterday. – REUTERSPICDeniz the menaceGERMANY FORWARD Deniz Undav came off the bench to score an 88th-minute goal that secured a 2-1 victory over Ghana in a friendly yesterday, boosting his chances of making the World Cup squad. The VfB Stuttgart striker, who is second on the Bundesliga scorers’ list with 18 goals, made the most of a second-half appearance in front of a home crowd, bagging the winner with a flick over the Ghana keeper. The winning goal came after Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann had raised eyebrows on Friday when Undav was left on the bench as they beat Switzerland 4-3. “A perfect evening. It was amazing to hear this support from the fans,” Undav said. “I came in and scored the goal but what is more important is that we won the game because otherwise it does not mean much.” Asked whether he would settle for a substitute’s role at the World Cup as Nagelsmann had hinted, Undav said he had discussed his position with the coach. “I accept my role and maybe if I score more goals like this my role may change, who knows,” Undav said. Germany had an early chance through forward Nick Woltemade, who has struggled for form at Newcastle United this season but trusted to start instead of Undav. They had Ghana firmly on the back foot when Kai Havertz converted a first-half stoppage-time penalty to give the hosts a deserved lead. They had a chance to grab a second goal when Woltemade hit the crossbar with a powerful header early in the second half. But the Germans lacked the intensity they had shown over 90 minutes against the Swiss when they twice came from a goal down to win and Ghana gradually started finding more space to launch quick breaks. The visitors scored with their first chance after the interval, substitute Abdul Fatawu tapping in after a fine run down the left and an assist from Derrick Koehn in the 70th. Teenager Lennart Karl came close to scoring in the 86th minute but his low shot rolled narrowly wide. Instead it was local hero Undav, whose name fans had chanted since the first half, who grabbed the late winner. “We now have to start analysing our opponents in the World Cup,” Nagelsmann said. “Now we have time for that and also to keep monitoring our players and take final decision before the squad announcement in May.” The Germans, who have not reached a final in any major international tournament since winning their fourth World Cup in 2014 in Brazil, have been drawn in Group E with Ecuador, Curacao and Ivory Coast for the June 11-July 19 tournament. They play their opening World Cup match in Houston, Texas on June 14 against Curacao. Germany then travel to Toronto on June 20 to take on Ivory Coast before the last group game against Ecuador in New York on June 25. –ReutersIraq coach Arnold shielding players from war newsIRAQ COACH Graham Arnold said yesterday he is trying to shield his squad from news of the war in the Middle East as they prepare for a crunch 2026 World Cup playoff against Bolivia today (11am Malaysian time). Arnold’s Iraq-based players were forced to train and travel under the shadow of conflict embroiling the region, and arrived in Mexico after a gruelling journey that involved overland travel to Jordan. However Arnold is determined not to let the troubled build-up distract his team as they bid to secure Iraq’s first appearance at the World Cup since the 1986 finals in Mexico. “Representing 46 million people is a unique experience,” Arnold told reporters in Monterrey yesterday. “A major part of my job has focused on the mental aspect. “The players need to concentrate on themselves – thinking of their families and a few close friends – rather than the entire country; otherwise, the pressure becomes too great,” the 62-year-old Australian added. Iraq’s preparations for today’s intercontinental playoff have been heavily disrupted over the past month by the war in the Middle East. Most of the Iraqi squad only reached Mexico around 10 days ago after a three-day journey from Baghdad that began with an overland crossing into Jordan. “It has been a very difficult month,” admitted Arnold, who had initially pushed for today’s playoffs to be delayed. I prefer not to talk about it right now (the war in the Middle East). I have tried to shield my players from it. “A tremendous amount is happening in the Middle East; if they dwell on it too much, it will mess with their heads. “They know what they have to do for their country. These past 20 days have been very difficult for them, but now they are relaxed.” Arnold said he believes qualification could “change a country and the perception of it.” “In Iraq, there is an obsession with football; it is the national sport,” he said. “It is an honor to work with these players. “I tried to be a father figure this week because I have experienced these situations (playoffs) before with Australia,” he added. –AFPSOUTH AFRICA can create a few surprises at this year’s World Cup as they will go into the tournament as an unknown factor, coach Hugo Broos said yesterday. South Africa return to the World Cup for the first time since the country hosted the finals in 2010 and play in the opening game on June 11 against co-hosts Mexico at the Azteca Stadium. They also take on South Korea in Group A and the winner of this morning’s playoff between the Czech Republic and Denmark. “When we are at our best level, with the quality in this team, then we can make some surprises in the World Cup,” the veteran Belgian coach. Broos said even though the team had qualified for the tournament after a long absence, their ambitions were to make an impact and go as far as they could. “For me, it’s not enough to be there, and I should be very, very disappointed if the performances are not what I think they can be,” said the former Belgiuminternational. “I don’t really have to push the players because they also want to show themselves at the World Cup. I know their mentality and I know the hunger they have, to do something at the World Cup.” South Africa previously qualified for the 1998 and 2002 finals and were hosts in 2010 but have returned disappointing results since. But they finished ahead of Nigeria in their qualifying group to win one of the nine African places at the finals in Canada, Mexico, and U.S. “I think what South Africa needs is interest from abroad, but you only get that interest when you participate in big tournaments,” Broos said. After we finished third at the (2023) Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast, suddenly there was interest in players of the national team, and that is most important so that they can move abroad.” South Africa’s squad is made up mainly of locally based players, in contrast to other African sides competing at the World Cup, most of whom have squads of players based at foreign clubs, mainly in Europe. – ReutersBafana Bafana can spring surprise: BroosDanilo gets thumbs up from Ancelotti BRAZIL HEAD COACH Carlo Ancelotti has backed veteran defender Danilo to be part of his final 26-man squad for this year’s World Cup in North America, adding that his squad is largely settled. Brazil have been drawn in Group C alongside Morocco, Haiti and Scotland for the tournament, with Ancelotti set to announce his final squad by May 18. “Danilo is a very important player, not only on the pitch but also off it,” Ancelotti told reporters yesterday. “Danilo is certain to be in the final 26-man squad because I like him… his character, his personality, his style of play. He can play in all defensive positions. I have a fairly clear idea of the starting line-up for the first match, and the final squad is also pretty much set.” Ancelotti said a strong defensive foundation would be essential for Brazil to win a sixth World Cup. “For Brazil to win the World Cup, we need talent - and we have it - and we need to defend well,” the Italian said. “There’s no other way. I’m not convinced by an attacking game alone.”Black Stars sack coach GHANA have parted ways with coach Otto Addo, with 72 days remaining until the kickoff of the 2026 World Cup, the country’s football association (GFA) announced yesterday following a 2-1 defeat by Germany in Stuttgart. Ghana also lost 5-1 in Austria on Friday. “The Ghana Football Association (GFA) have parted ways with the Head Coach of the senior men’s national team (Black Stars), Otto Addo effective immediately,” it said in a statement. Former Borussia Dortmund player Addo, appointed for a second stint in March 2024, failed to qualify Ghana for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations despite having Premier League players Antoine Semenyo and Mohammed Kudus in his squad. The Germanborn coach won eight matches and lost nine in 22 games in charge of the West African nation. He led Ghana at the 2022 World Cup, after previously working as an assistant to Milovan Rajevac. They recorded a 3–2 win over South Korea in Qatar but exited at the group stage after defeats by Portugal and Uruguay. Ghana, who reached the World Cup for the fifth time, are in Group L along with Croatia, England and Panama. Spain happy with favourite tag, says De la Fuente SPAIN COACH Luis de la Fuente is enjoying the pressure of being one of the favourites to win the World Cup, he said yester. “I love it. We accept that challenge,” De la Fuente said of the pressure of being favourites. It’s the same as what happens with other teams like France, England and Brazil,” he said. Asked about star forward Lamine Yamal , De la Fuente said he is in “one of the best moments of his young career”. “He’s in a very sweet moment – fast, resilient, producing flashes of brilliance,” said the coach. “I understand that Barca fans worry about him. My responsibility is to put out the best possible lineup, the best possible team. He’s a better footballer than he was two years ago, but not as good as he’ll be in two years. His contribution grows every day. He draws attention, he has magic,” De la Fuente said. Spain will play just one more friendly in Puebla, Mexico, against Peru on June 8 before their World Cup debut on the 15th against Cape Verde in Atlanta, United States in Group H match.sSIDENETTINGSubstitute Undav snatches late winner for Germany in 2-1 victory over Ghana
SPORTSWEDNESDAY | APR 1, 202631NATIONAL ice skater Fang Ze Zeng admitted he must endure pain to achieve perfection and consistency in his performances. The 2025 SEA Games gold medallist in the men’s singles event said the pain stemmed from intense training sessions in the United States in 2023. “During that time, I tried to improve certain jumping techniques, which is the technical part (of the performance). But, I think I overtrained and suffered an injury to my groin. “The jumps I tried to practice used mostly my left leg and I think it caused a micro tear. But, I just got through the pain and continue to train even though it was very hard and hurt a lot,” he told theSun. Ze Zeng previously trained in the United States for a month to prepare for the ISU Skate to Milano figure skating qualifier held in Beijing in September last year. Although the pain felt like “needles poking,” he chose not to undergo a medical check-up in order to keep up with his intensive training and busy schedule. His sacrifice proved worthwhile, as the Selangor-born athlete improved his performance and went on to capture gold at the 2025 SEA Games in Thailand. The 22-year-old’s total of 157.22 points was enough to secure victory, finishing ahead of Thailand’s Aaron Kulvatunyou (silver) and the Philippines’ Paolo Barromeo (bronze). It was a major boost for Ze Zeng’s career, inspiring him to set bigger goals – most notably qualifying for the 2030 Winter Olympics in France. The 22-year-old said his sacrifice has also proven meaningful, as it earned him opportunities to compete in more international tournaments, allowing him to learn and gain valuable experience. “I think one of my biggest achievements was to compete in the Four Continents Figure Skating Championships in Beijing, China, last January because skaters from Asia, America, Japan and Mexico came and competed together. “The Winter University Games also attracted a lot of very good skaters because most Olympians also compete in university-level competitions. So, I think it was very good experience, I learned a lot from them,” he added. Ze Zeng will now turn his focus to the Thailand Open Figure Skating Trophy in Bangkok, scheduled for May 1 to 4.Go big or go homeZe Zeng battled through pain, intense training for 2025 SEA Games goldLabuan karate team shines at international championshipsTHE Labuan karate team produced an impressive performance at the Universal Shotokan Karate Union (USKU) 24th International Open Karate Championships in Takanabe, Miyazaki, Japan, to bring home two gold, two silver and four bronze medals. The Labuan exponents battled gamely during the March 27-29 championships, with Syarulniza Abdul Jamil, Nur Aleesya Dayana Asmadie and Nur Ariesya Dayana Asmadie delivering the first gold in the women’s senior kata team event. Martina Anne Jipaun, Hazimah Jamil and Syarulniza Abdul Jamil then added a second gold medal with a superb showing in the women’s senior kumite team event. Syarulniza and Nur Aleesya also did well in the individual senior and junior (Under-15) events, respectively. While Syarulniza bagged a silver in kumite and a bronze in kata, Nur Aleesya clinched silver in kata and bronze in kumite. Labuan’s fourth bronze medal came courtesy of Mohamad Aqib Aimar Mohamad Affendi in the boys’ U-10 kata category. Labuan Karate Association president Renshi Aswadee Taba hailed the exponents for their outstanding achievement. “This achievement reflects the exponents’ dedication, discipline and fighting spirit. Competing in Japan and bringing home medals is a proud moment for Labuan. It proves that our exponents are on par with international competitors,” he said. – BernamaSABAH are targeting 40 gold medals at the 22nd Malaysia Games (Sukma) to be held in Selangor in August. State Youth Development, Sports Advancement and Creative Economy Minister Datuk Nizam Abu Bakar Titingan said that with the state contingent having started preparations early this year, he is confident they can improve on the state’s best achievement of 33 gold medals at the previous edition of the Games. “This time, with the commitment of the Sabah State Sports Council, the athletes and sports associations, we are confident we can meet the 40-gold target (at Sukma 2026),” he told reporters in Kota Linabalu yesterday. He said the target is to help improve Sabah athletes’ performances so they will be more competitive at the Games. He added that the Sabah Sukma management team have also given a detailed briefing regarding the training plans and the athletes’ preparations, with the priority now being to ensure they are at the highest fitness levels. Nizam also emphasised that it was important for the athletes to be highly disciplined and committed during the training period. A total of 474 events from 37 sports will be contested at Sukma 2026 from Aug 15-24. – Bernama Sabah target 40 gold medals at Sukma Ű BY ZIKRY MARZUKI [email protected] FRIENDLIES St. Kitts and Nevis 2 Solomon Islands 4, Gabon 2 Trinidad and Tobago 2 (Gabon win 5-4 on pen), Indonesia 0 Bulgaria 1, Grenada 0 Kenya 3, Uzbekistan 0 Venezuela 0 (Uzbekistan win 5-4 on pen), Azerbaijan 1 Sierra Leone 1 (Azerbaijan win 10-9 on pen), Cyprus 3 Moldova 2, Rwanda 2 Estonia 0, Germany 2 Ghana 1, Guyana 3 Belize 1.RESULTSTOUCHLINESREAL MADRID will look to sign Chelsea’s 25-year-old Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez or Crystal Palace’s 22-year-old England midfielder Adam Wharton if they fail to acquire Spain midfielder Rodri, 29, from Manchester City this year. It will take a bid of about £50m (RM267m) from Madrid to tempt City into selling their star player. JUVENTUS are keeping an eye on Manchester United’s Uruguay midfielder Manuel Ugarte during the international break and might move for the 24-yearold this summer. NEWCASTLE have been given a boost in their bid to keep hold of Italy midfielder Sandro Tonali this summer with Serie A clubs unlikely to be able to afford the 25-year-old. NEWCASTLE have agreed a deal in principle to sign Independiente del Valle’s 16-year-old Ecuadorian winger Johan Martinez. MAN CITY’S 31-year-old Netherlands defender Nathan Ake might be eyeing a move back to former club Chelsea. MAN UNITED and Arsenal are among clubs keen on signing Barcelona’s 26-year-old Spain forward Ferran Torres this summer. CHELSEA and Liverpool are leading the race to sign 22-year-old Senegal midfielder Lamine Camara from Monaco. BOLOGNA are eyeing a summer move for Nottingham Forest’s 25-year-old Italy striker Lorenzo Lucca, who is loan from Napoli until the end of the season. NEWCASTLE’S contract talks have stalled with England defender Tino Livramento, opening the door for a summer exit for the 23-year-old. LIVERPOOL will face strong competition from Bayern Munich for the signing of Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace. Aston Villa and Chelsea are also monitoring the 25-year-old French defender. BARCELONA’S top transfer target this summer is Atletico Madrid’s 26-yearold Argentina forward Julian Alvarez. BAYERN MUNICH honorary president Uli Hoeness is wary of the Saudi Pro League trying to tempt England striker Harry Kane as the German club continue talks with the 32-year-old over a new deal beyond summer 2027. PORTUGAL midfielder Bernardo Silva, 31, has told Manchester City that he will be leaving the club when his contract runs out in the summer. LIVERPOOL and Newcastle United are interested in Portuguese club Sporting’s 28-year-old Colombia striker Luis Suarez.Sawda smashes Asian Jr markNATIONAL junior track cyclist Sawda Hasbullah redeemed herself in style by clinching the gold medal in the women’s junior 1km time trial at the 2026 Asian Cycling Championships (ACC) in Tagaytay, the Philippines, on Monday. Sawda not only successfully defended the title she won last year at the National Velodrome in Nilai, but also rewrote her own Asian junior record with a time of one minute and 09.604 seconds (s). Her previous Asian junior mark of 1:10.818s. South Korea’s Lee Hyun Ji took the silver medal with a time of 1:10.640s, while India’s S Thabitha settled for bronze in 1:12.613s. Sawda failed to defend her gold medal in the sprint event. Sawda also bagged a bronze medal alongside Nur Umairah Qhaisara Zulfikha Razak and Davia Evriel Eriana Azif in the women’s junior sprint team event. Earlier Nurul Izzah Izzati Mohd Asri missed out on a medal in the women’s individual sprint after finishing fourth. The 23-year-old rider was defeated 2-0 by China’s Wang Lijuan in the bronze medal playoff at the Tagaytay City Velodrome. Lijuan clocked 11.235s in the first race before once again outpacing Nurul Izzah in the second race with a time of 11.071s to secure the bronze medal. The gold medal was won by another Chinese rider, Yuan Liying, who defeated Japan’s Mina Sato in the final. – BernamaNational ice skater and 2025 SEA Games gold medalist Fang Ze Zeng. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/ THESUNPIC
theSun is published and printed by Sun Media Corporation Sdn Bhd (221220-K) of Lot 6, Jalan 51/217, 46050 Petaling Jaya, Selangor. Tel: 03-7784 6688 • Tel (Editorial): 03-7784 6688 Fax: 03-7785 2625 Email: [email protected] • Tel (Advertising): 03-7784 8888 Email: [email protected] www.thesun.my Free access to iPaper PDF Download SCAN MEMalaysian PaperRead iPaper at Malaysian Paperor download from appthe App Store or Google PlayTM.Malaysian PaperSCAN ME WEDNESDAY | APR 1, 2026ROBERTO DE ZERBI is poised to take on the challenge of keeping Tottenham in the Premier League, with discussions between the parties reportedly in advanced stages. Spurs refocused its attention on De Zerbi following Igor Tudor’s departure on Sunday. Although the former Brighton manager initially preferred to defer his decision until the summer, he now appears set to reverse course and assume immediate control. Reports emerging from De Zerbi’s native Italy yesterday indicated his willingness to engage with Tottenham’s offer, which includes a five-year contract. Should he accept, the 46-year-old would become the club’s fourth head coach within a span of just 10 months. De Zerbi has been a recurring name linked with the Spurs vacancy, first in 2023 and again more recently after Thomas Frank’s exit on Feb 11. However, a sabbatical until the season’s conclusion had been anticipated after his departure from Marseille in the same week. Tottenham therefore turned to Tudor as interim head coach, but his shambolic 44-day reign produced five defeats in seven matches alongside a catalogue of questionable tactical choices and only increased the realistic threat of a first relegation since 1977. It forced Spurs into one final roll of the dice and, with fans’ favourite Mauricio Pochettino contracted to lead the United States at this year’s World Cup, De Zerbi has profited from being the best and most viable candidate currently on the market. Pochettino was asked on Monday if he had received any contact from Tottenham or Real Madrid, and told a press conference: “We have our full focus here on the World Cup. “I think everyone knows that I am committed with the national team. I think there’s no a point to talk about the future. At the moment no (team) has approached.” First-team coach Bruno Saltor was tasked with taking training for the players not on international duty after Spurs moved on from Tudor on Sunday. However, Tottenham expected a new head coach would be hired by the middle of this week to give them 10 days to prepare for the April 12 trip to Sunderland – and that is set to be De Zerbi. The anticipated appointment will not be universally popular among Spurs fans, with three supporters groups calling for De Zerbi not to be hired due to his past comments on Marseille forward Mason Greenwood. Proud Lilywhites, Women of the Lane and Spurs Reach all expressed their concerns with “No to De Zerbi” statements. Greenwood was charged in October 2022 with one count of attempted rape, one count of controlling and coercive behaviour and one count of assault occasioning actual bodily harm over allegations relating to a young woman after images and videos were posted online. The Crown Prosecution Service dropped the charges in February 2023, citing “a combination of the withdrawal of key witnesses and new material that came to light”, which meant there was “no longer a realistic prospect of conviction”. Greenwood has since resumed his career and joined Marseille in 2024. In November, when De Zerbi was Marseille boss, he described Greenwood as a “good guy” and added: “It saddens me what happened in his life, because I know a totally different person than the one who was described.” Candidates with Tottenham connections such as Ryan Mason, Harry Redknapp and Tim Sherwood would be open to taking the job on an interim basis until the end of the season, while current player Ben Davies has also been considered as a possible short-term fix. Fan reactions to the links with Davies have been divided. The 32-yearold, who is currently sidelined through injury, joined the club from Swansea City in 2014. He has racked up more than 350 appearances for Spurs, though only five of those have come this season. “Ben Davies?! Are we down that bad for a manager?” questioned one fan, while another simply stated: “Not Davies man”. Former Spurs players Glenn Hoddle and Chris Hughton have also been touted as interim appointments. Ex-Monaco head coach Adi Hutter’s name had also been mentioned, but he has appeared to rule himself out of the running. He issued a statement to Sky Sports Austria, saying, as he had stated following his exit from the French top-flight club in October 2025, that he “would prefer not to work as a head coach again until the start of the new season at the earliest”. He added: “My position on this matter has not changed since then.” – The Independent/Express Newspapers/ Agencies Last roll of the dice Tottenham closing in on De Zerbi appointment with talks at advanced stageCLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Thomas Frank, Igor Tudor and Roberto de Zerbi.Battle for tennis supremacy Story -on page 28Storyon page 28StoryGo big or go home -Story on page 31