The Sun Daily-280721

INSIDE

TELLING IT AS IT IS page No action against page Man livid over

2 doctors in 5 missing record of
walkout protest first Covid jab

ON WEDNESDAY JULY 28, 2021 HOME SCREENING ... A pharmacy

worker in Penang showing made-in-Malaysia
Covid self-test kits available for sale to the public.
– MASRY CHE ANI/THESUN

No. 7830 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195) www.thesundaily.my

Validity questioned

█ BY SHIVANI SUPRAMANI oRevocation of Emergency Ordinance
[email protected] should be done through gazette: Lawyers

PETALING JAYA: It is all down to were no plans to advise the King to extend Takiyuddin insisted that the
the execution rather than the the nationwide state of Emergency compounds issued over the past few
substance. Several lawyers beyond Aug 1. days are still valid and action could be
theSun spoke to yesterday agreed taken against anyone who disregards
that the process of revoking the Several MPs then questioned the them.
Emergency Ordinance (EO) and lifting legality of such a move without first Immediate past president of the
the state of Emergency has raised several getting royal assent. Malaysian Bar Salim Bashir
pertinent questions. Bhaskaran said the list of offences
In response, Takiyuddin said he would under Covid-19 standard operating
Lawyer Fahri Azzat said while it is the respond to those questions on Monday. procedures (SOP) and the penalties
prerogative of the government to revoke for flouting them would have been
an EO without consultation with or Fahri said an EO “cannot simply be promulgated under the Emergency
consent from the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, revoked” without legal action. (Prevention and Control of
it is important that the process be Infectious Diseases) Amendment
executed properly. “It appears that this has been the case,” Ordinance 2021 (Act 342).
he said. However, he pointed out that as of
“This is an administrative process yesterday, there was still no gazette on
carried out through political action,” Given the questionable way that the the revocation.
he explained. state of Emergency has been lifted, he “The revocation should only take
said it “seems likely” that compounds effect on the day of publication of
“There are implications. Therefore, an issued for various offences under the the gazette,” he said.
announcement of such a move should be ordinance from July 21 may no longer be He added that technically, in Turn to
made prior to its execution and that is valid.
usually done through a gazette. We are the absence of such a gazette, —
now wondering why this was not done,” “This is why an official announcement the requirements under the
he added. should have been made. This is to ensure page 3
that the government administration and
At the special sitting of the Dewan the general public are aware that the law ordinance can still be enforced.
Rakyat on Monday, Minister in the Prime is no longer in force,” Fahri added.
Minister’s Department for Parliament
and Law Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan However, in response to a question
announced that the government had from Lembah Pantai MP Fahmi Fadzil,
revoked the EO on July 21 and that there

2 theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | JULY 28, 2021
NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS

Takiyuddin grilled ALISHA NUR MOHD NOOR ATTHE DEWAN RAKYAT
over revocation
of Emergency No action against doctors
in protest: Health minister
THE second day of the special meeting got off
to a dramatic start as opposition members of o Several lawmakers express support for medical personnel According to Setiawangsa MP Nik Nazmi Nik
Parliament (MP) continued to reprimand involved in #HartalDoktorKontrak walkout Ahmad, the country now has 23,000 contract
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department doctors.
(Parliament and law) Datuk Seri Takiyuddin KUALA LUMPUR: Contract doctors who took Batu Kawan MP Kasthuriraani Patto revealed
Hassan for not providing clarity on the part in Monday’s protest to air their grievances earlier that the director of Tengku Ampuan He added that these doctors are underpaid
revocation of the Emergency Ordinance (EO). will not face punitive action. Rahimah Hospital had issued show-cause letters and are experiencing immense stress on the
to those who had taken part in the protest. frontline in the battle against a common enemy,
The Kota Baru MP refused to say whether Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Adham Baba Covid-19.
the Emergency proclamation and its has promised that no action will be taken She said that they had also been harassed by
ordinances had the Yang di-Pertuan Agong’s against the doctors who participated in the police into giving statements. “At the very least the government should
decree. Instead, lawmakers were told to wait #HartalDoktorKontrak walkout. shed light on this pressing issue and give an
for an explanation on Monday, the final day of “They were just showing their feelings allocation for these doctors.”
the special meeting. The doctors, who are unhappy with their yesterday (on Monday). When any of you fall
contract status, had walked out on Monday sick, it is not ministers that can treat you, it is the According to a Malay daily, Tengku Ampuan
This led to an uproar from the Opposition morning to voice their demand for a better deal. doctors.” Rahimah Hospital director Dr Zulkarnain Mohd
bench and a throng of MP, including Datuk Seri Rawi said contract doctors who participated in
Anwar Ibrahim (PKR-Port Dickson), Fahmi They had complained about being paid Using the hashtag #HartalDoktorKontrak on the strike will face disciplinary action.
Fadzil (PKR-Lembah Pantai), M. Kula Segaran lower salaries and missing out on various Twitter, Dzulkefly (Kuala Selangor-Amanah)
(DAP-Ipoh Barat), Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie benefits. had said that participating doctors were merely Those involved will be given show-cause
Apdal (Warisan-Semporna), R.S.N. Rayer standing up for their rights in a civil manner. letters as they are bound by the Hippocratic
(DAP-Jelutong), Gobind Singh Deo Before the protest was staged, Adham had Oath, the director had reportedly said.
(DAP-Puchong) and Datuk Seri Salahuddin announced that their contracts would be “Don’t punish any of these doctors involved
Ayub (Amanah-Pulai) fired questions extended by another two years. in the demonstration as they were exercising He reminded contract doctors that they
repeatedly at Takiyuddin. their rights in a civil way to plead with the should not be influenced into joining the
At yesterday’s Dewan Rakyat sitting, contract government to get them protected,” he said at demonstration as the government had
Deputy Speaker Datuk Seri Azalina Othman doctors found an ally in former health minister yesterday’s sitting. extended their contract period by another two
Said had to step in to stop the situation from Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad. years.
escalating. “Don’t treat them like PPE (personal
He voiced support for their participation in protective equipment), which is disposable Hundreds of contract medical personnel
Six Emergency ordinances were revoked on the #HartalDoktorKontrak and urged the after use. It is pertinent that we address this took time out on Monday to participate in the
July 21 as mentioned by Takiyuddin. government to refrain from taking disciplinary matter today.” walkout.
action against them.
Replying to Fahmi, Takiyuddin clarified that Adham said a total of 278,023 permanent
compounds issued after the date of revocation posts had been approved for the Health
are still valid and action should be taken. Ministry by the Public Services Department as
of April 31.
Fahmi had asked about what would happen
to compounds issued over the past five days Langkawi MP and
with the assumption that the EO is still in effect. former prime
minister Tun
“Do raise the issue of (compounds under Dr Mahathir
the ordinance) when the health minister Mohamad at the
(Datuk Seri Dr Adham Baba presents his sitting yesterday.
briefing. He’s the owner of these ordinances.
Not me. You can raise the issue with him,”
Takiyuddin said.

Dissatisfied with his answer, Salahuddin
said: “You destroyed everything, you made a
mistake.”

Azalina then told the Pulai MP to respect
the speaker and wait for his turn.

“Give me the opportunity to do my work. Or
else you take my place and replace me instead,”
she said, and passed the floor to Adham to
present his briefing.

Unexpected presence
at press conference

FORMER prime minister Datuk Seri Najib 221 hospitals treating Covid patients
Abdul Razak spoke on the sidelines of the
ongoing special meeting by raising questions A TOTAL of 221 hospitals in the country are now with different ailments. inside and outside of hospital buildings to be
on the revocation of the Emergency. treating Covid-19 patients, Health Minister He added that to bolster healthcare used as temporary wards and ICU. Moreover,
Datuk Seri Dr Adham Baba revealed. there will be additional field hospitals, field ICU
Rather than direct questions at relevant capability, his ministry will increase the and modular ICU. Private hospitals will also be
ministers during the meeting, he chose to air Of the 146 public hospitals in the country, capacity of Covid-19 treatment beds in public roped in to accommodate patients who need
his views with an unscheduled appearance at a 104 are dedicated to Covid-19 treatment. hospitals to manage the surge in the daily intensive care.
media conference. Additionally, private hospitals, university number of cases.
hospitals and a Malaysian Armed Forces “So far, three modular ICU have been
He urged the government to provide an hospital are offering treatment for Covid Adham said the number of beds for prepared or are already operating at Tengku
explanation on the decision to revoke the patients on a daily basis. non-intensive care in the 221 hospitals involved Ampuan Rahimah Hospital, Kepala Batas
Emergency Ordinance (EO), a move he had risen by 373%. For instance, the number of Hospital and Malacca Hospital. To
claimed could raise questions about its legality As of yesterday, there were 170,224 active beds available for Covid patients had risen from accommodate the increase in the number of
and the legitimacy of the government in the cases, with 1,023 people in intensive care. A total 4,395 in March last year to 15,090 at present. Covid cases, especially those in categories four
period from July 21 to Aug 1. of 16,117 new cases were reported yesterday, and five, the ministry has added five more
bringing the national tally to 1,044,071. He said there are 1,533 beds in the intensive modular ICU in several hospitals.
“In my opinion, the statement made care units (ICU) at public hospitals and 128 in
yesterday (Monday) was utterly confusing for Adham said 11 public hospitals have been private hospitals, an increase of 485% compared He said RM7.13 billion has been allocated for
the people and the Dewan Rakyat. An accurate, classified as full Covid-19 facilities while the with the same period last year. the ministry’s fight against Covid-19.
detailed and clear-cut explanation should be other hospitals also continue to treat patients
provided before it causes many to raise further “There are plans to renovate certain areas
questions.”

He said that usually the Yang di-Pertuan
Agong would issue a decree after being advised
by the Cabinet so that the revocation can be
gazetted.

He added this was not clarified by the
government.

Najib said the revocation of the Emergency
should be tabled and debated in both the
Dewan Rakyat and Dewan Negara before it can
be effective.

He said that he would speak tomorrow after
the finance minister had presented his
briefing.

Speaker comes under fire over EO issue

SPEAKER Datuk Azhar Azizan said he would hold Azhar Fahmi said Takiyuddin should “When the speaker instructed the Bagan MP Lim Guan Eng pointed
Harun came under attack over de accountable “for permitting end the confusion and the speaker Kota Baru MP (Takiyuddin) to out that given that “Art Harun”
facto Law Minister Datuk Seri Takiyuddin to get away with his should allow opposition lawmakers explain the revocation of the six (Azhar) is a lawyer, he should know
Takiyuddin Hassan’s explanation on statement on the revocation of six to raise questions on the EO’s conditions for the EO, he only best that justice delayed is justice
the lifting of the Emergency. conditions under the Emergency revocation as it had created allowed the confusion to be denied for those affected by the
Ordinances (EO).” confusion among the people. prolonged.” revocation of the EO.
Lembah Pantai MP Fahmi Fadzil

3theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | JULY 28, 2021

NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS

Covid-19 takes away yen BRIEFS TAPIR CAUGHT AND
for healthy living RELOCATED

█ BY ELWIN DAVA o Keeping fit, balanced diet take a backseat over a year now,” she told theSun. SEREMBAN: A 300kg female
[email protected] for many during lockdowns Firstly, her eating habits changed Malayan tapir was caught in a trap
PETALING JAYA: Regular exercise left by the Negri Sembilan Wildlife
and a balanced diet have become a He admits that with others Swimming slots are restricted completely. “I have breakfast in the and National Parks Department
thing of the past for many going around him, his ego gets a “small now as a result of the lockdown and afternoon and lunch in the late (Perhilitan) in Felda Pasoh 2,
through the Covid-19 lockdown. boost” and that helps him to build dragon boat races have also been evening, so I don’t eat dinner Simpang Pertang on July 18. Its
confidence and see progress. cancelled to meet the requirements sometimes,” she said. director Wan Mat Wan Harun said
For some, like self-confessed gym under tough rules enforced to curb the trap was installed a day earlier
rat Melvin Kho, it has deteriorated to He does most of his workout at the spread of Covid-19. Another factor that has lured her following complaints from
binge-watching TV and social home now. While indoors, he away from healthy eating is the food residents on the sighting of the
media, while dentistry student A. focuses on yoga because of space In any case, he is now too prepared by her mother. animal. “Preliminary investigation
Chrisstine has lost her motivation to constraints. Otherwise, he goes preoccupied with work to find time showed the tapir was attracted to
eat healthy. jogging. to exercise. “My mother would try out new the smell of the machang fruit
recipes and my siblings and I would from a tree near a house of a Felda
According to a report on BMJ The 43-year-old communications Kho has also gained some weight sample them,” she said. Pasoh 2 staff there, which is near
Journals, a weekly peer review manager said he still relies on take- since the pandemic began and an oil palm plantation and a forest
medical trade publication, the outs for his meals. Even so, he has lockdown rules were put in place. As a result, getting back on track area,” he told Bernama yesterday.
physical activity levels for all ages managed to maintain an ideal has been tough. He said the tapir was released into
have seen a decline since the global weight. His routine has also changed the Kenaboi Forest Reserve in
pandemic forced most countries to considerably. “Instead of the regular Chrisstine, 25, said she would jog Jelebu on the same day after
impose strict restrictions on “But with the MCO (movement weekend routine (of swimming and around her campus when she was checks by the department’s
movements. control order) in place, I have to get boat racing) I now hang out with my still in university in Indonesia. She veterinary officer found it in good
to the restaurant early to buy my friends a lot,” he said. would then spend her evenings on health. - Bernama
For Bob Prushothaman, who meals,” he pointed out. Zumba dancing in her room.
maintains a regular fitness regime, “Otherwise, I’d be sitting in front 521,923 VACCINE DOSES
not being allowed to go to the gym Kho, 25, a Sarawak-born civil of the TV or surfing social media.” However, upon returning to GIVEN ON MONDAY
has been difficult. engineer who works in Singapore, Malaysia, she had to give it all up.
said he would go to the gym four or However, he continues to eat a KUALA LUMPUR: The highest daily
As the situation has changed five times a week after class during balanced diet. “It’s three meals a day “Everything has turned upside vaccination rate was recorded
considerably, Prushothaman said he his university days. and no junk food,” he stressed. down for me since I returned from under the National Covid-19
has been forced to re-evaluate his Indonesia. Apart from my weight Immunisation programme on
diet and workout routine. “I also swam and participated For Chrisstine, everything has and eating habits, my studies have Monday, totalling 521,923 doses.
actively in dragon boat racing,” he been thrown out of the window. “I also been affected.” Prior to this, the highest daily
“I like going to the gym because told theSun. have stopped following my exercise doses of 507,050 was recorded on
there are other people there I can routine or eating a healthy diet for With a big family, she said, it is July 22. The Covid-19 Vaccine
train with,” he told theSun. difficult to complete her workout Supply Access Guarantee Special
regimen at home even if she wants Committee, via Twitter, stated that
to. She has tried to restart her jogging of the total vaccine doses
routine but no longer has the administered on Monday, a total
stamina she used to have. of 333,621 were for the first dose
recipients, while 188,302 doses
Validity were given to second dose
question recipients. Selangor recorded the
highest vaccination rate on
He said the effective date must Monday, totalling 130,187 doses,
be clearly stated and the intention followed by Kuala Lumpur (85,187
explicitly worded to ensure the doses), Sarawak (38,977 doses)
validity of any compounds issued and Perak (32,311). - Bernama
after July 21.
Another lawyer, Kokila Vaani e-Land system
Vadiveloo, said the EO can be to be expanded
revoked by the Yang di-Pertuan to other states
Agong or through annulment by
Parliament under Article 150 (3) of KUALA LUMPUR: The e-Land
the Federal Constitution. system implemented through a
Otherwise, it will public-private partnership (PPP)
automatically lapse arrangement will be expanded to
From six months after the other states after it was proven
front proclamation of successful in increasing the quality
page Emergency has and efficiency of land administration
in Kuala Lumpur.
ended, as provided for
under Article 150 (7) of the Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin
Constitution. Yassin said the system will be
“The King must act on the advice expanded to the Federal Territories of
of the Cabinet and he must be Putrajaya and Labuan, as well as
presented with the order to revoke Selangor, Terengganu, Pahang, Johor,
the EO for him to agree to it. The Kedah, Perlis and Kelantan as it is
Cabinet cannot bypass the King.” expected to be fully developed and
She said failure to follow those adopted by 2024 at the latest.
steps meant that the Emergency has
not been lifted. “I was made to understand that
Kokila noted that under the EO, the e-Land System concession
several new items were added to agreement for the Land and Mines
the list of offences for which flouters Office of Putrajaya and Labuan will be
can be penalised. inked today (Tuesday),” he said when
“If the revocation of the EO turns opening the National Land Day 2021
out to be invalid, the authorities can celebrations themed “Facing Post-
still act against those who flout Covid-19 Challenges in Land
these rules and they can be fined up Administration” which was held
to RM10,000 if they are individuals BACK IN BUSINESS ... Roadside hawker Ah Bee, 60, is seen frying chestnuts yesterday on the sidewalk of virtually yesterday.
and RM50,000 if they are Chowrasta Road, which is within the Unesco World Heritage Site in George Town. Penang entered Phase Two of the
businesses,” she added. National Recovery Plan on July 5. – BERNAMAPIX Muhyiddin, who also launched
the expansion of the PPP e-Land
MEF wants NRC to include private employers’ views system in conjunction with the
celebrations, said since the
KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian representative in Malaysia, is looking that had caused much confusion in Meanwhile, on the modernisation initiative in land
Employers Federation (MEF) hopes forward to being engaged by NRC as the past. government’s “no turning back” administration service was
to participate in the National employer stakeholders in charting policy with regard to the NRP, Syed implemented in the early 1980s, it has
Recovery Council (NRC) to ensure Malaysia’s way forward towards full NRP coordinating minister Hussain said that the government always been fine-tuned and
that the views and proposals of recovery. Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz had assured employers that they modernised in line with technology
private sector employers are clearly said in a statement on July 23 that would not return to the lockdown development and that the federal
reflected. He said the setting up of the NRC NRC had agreed to invite in the future - a positive step for government had in 2014 agreed to
public portal would also be a useful representatives from opposition the people and the economy, implement the e-Land system
In a statement yesterday, reference for employers and the parties, Sabah and Sarawak state while simultaneously avoiding through PPP arrangement.
president Datuk Dr Syed Hussain public on the status of the National governments and experts from confusion and further setbacks. -
Syed Husman said MEF, being the Recovery Plan (NRP), as well as the various industries to join the Bernama The e-Land, which involves a
largest private sector employer latest standard operating procedures council. collaboration among the federal
government, state governments and
private companies, is aimed at
standardising land administration in
the states based on applicable
legislation, reducing bureaucracy and
increasing transparency and integrity
in land administration. - Bernama

4 theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | JULY 28, 2021 Covid may become endemic
NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS
o Under new classification, patients with mild symptoms would no longer need to be isolated
Spotlight on
suicides KUALA LUMPUR: Whether or not “We have seen recently that only new cases to the public. More than 20 months later, it is
the nation is ready, it has to be a few countries have recorded zero However, precautionary still raging across the globe and the
KUALA LUMPUR: The early stages of the prepared for the possibility that cases for two weeks in a row, measures will still be needed, death toll has exceeded four million
Covid-19 pandemic and the ensuing Covid-19 is not going away after all. proving that most nations including complying with standard worldwide.
lockdowns were hard on Malaysians in throughout the world have to operating procedures (SOP)
different ways. According to general, accept Covid-19 as a part of life, involving wearing of masks, The emergence of more
occupational and emergency similar to influenza (H1N1), that observing physical distancing and aggressive new variants of the
Isolation, joblessness, childcare and health specialist Dr Hanafiah emerged in 2009 and then became washing of hands frequently, coronavirus has burdened
many other challenges severely affected Bashirun, there is a possibility that endemic.” Bernama reported. healthcare systems further, and
the well-being of many Malaysians, Covid-19 would become endemic Most importantly, the adult although vaccines have since been
translating to severe emotional distress. in Malaysia. Hanafiah added that once population should get vaccinated, discovered and are currently being
Covid-19 has its status changed to said Hanafiah, who expressed administered to protect people
Eighteen months have gone by since “Whether we like it or not, this is endemic, it will no longer be confidence that inoculation and against the disease, records from all
the first three Covid-19 cases were something that the people of this necessary to provide statistics on observing the SOP would be the key over the world show that
reported in Malaysia in January last year. country must accept,” he said. vaccinated individuals can still
How have Malaysians been coping? STRONG SUPPORTER ... contract Covid-19, but with less
Vaccine recipient Khoo Swee, to controlling transmission of the severe effects.
“The pandemic has made it difficult for 101, reacts with joy as she gets virus.
some members of our collective to her Covid jab at an inoculation He explained that after Covid-19 The World Health Organisation
maintain stability and the pandemic centre in Selangor yesterday. becomes endemic, anyone recently said that Covid-19 is likely
response has been wanting, adding to the – ASYRAF RASID/THESUN experiencing mild flu-like to become endemic and a majority
distress some of us are going through,” symptoms will be considered as of health experts concur with its
according to a spokesperson of Siuman, a having the flu and will not be view. By declaring it an endemic, it
solidarity network of mental health referred to a hospital, unless he or will be a part of our daily lives,
patients and allies fighting for she manifests severe symptoms similar to the flu.
socioeconomic and political equity and such as breathing difficulty.
equality for the mentally ill. Hanafiah said patients with mild In medical terms, a disease
symptoms will no longer be becomes endemic when it is
Suicide has been a long-standing issue, isolated but instead treated as a prevalent in or restricted to a
not only in Malaysia but also globally. It is normal case of viral infection. particular location, region or
a given that the issue should be properly Covid-19 was first detected in population. When a disease
addressed with a strong political will. Wuhan, China, in December 2019 becomes endemic, the number of
and since then, it has spread to all infections becomes relatively
Institute for Democracy and Economic corners of the world. constant over the years, with
Affairs (Ideas) social policy unit senior occasional spikes in cases.
executive Vaisnavi Mogan Rao said
managing the pandemic and Ministry sets up free quarantine centres
socioeconomy is key to lifting
socioeconomic uncertainties. KUALA LUMPUR: The Federal undergo self-quarantine at home.
Territories Ministry is providing four “However, we find that most of
She noted that the surge in suicide rates free-of-charge Covid-19 low-risk
in Malaysia correlates with distress among quarantine and treatment centres them live in cramped and crowded
the people over the last six months. for residents of Kuala Lumpur City houses, especially B40 families in
Hall public housing and People’s public housing, which are not
According to Health Director-General Housing Projects who are infected conducive for the purpose,“ he said
Tan Sri Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah, with Covid-19. in a statement on Monday.
Malaysia recorded 468 suicide cases
between January and May, compared with Its minister Tan Sri Annuar Musa Annuar said the move was
631 throughout last year. said the four private centres are at taken after the ministry held
the Royal Chulan Hotel in Jalan discussions with various agencies
There was an average of four suicide Conlay, International Youth Centre and decided to relocate and place
cases every day for the first three months in Bandar Tun Razak, Tamu Hotel such positive at several hotels
of the year, with 336 cases reported to the and Suites in Kampung Baru and designated as centres.
police. the Travelodge City Centre Hotel.
He said the operation to take in
The majority of suicides are He said the centres are for about 1,000 patients started on
preventable, said Dr Chua Sook Ning, category one and two Covid-19 Monday with the help of the
founder of Relate Malaysia, a non-profit patients in the area to undergo Covid-19 Assessment Centre, the
organisation dedicated to the provision of self-quarantine and avoid an Kuala Lumpur Federal Territory
mental health services, education, training increase in positive cases due to Health Department and several
and advocacy. close contact among family related government agencies and
members. departments.
Chua said a review of suicide
prevention interventions last year found “Currently, those tested positive “The ministry is also working to
that the interventions reduced the number but are asymptomatic (category provide more Covid-19 treatment
of completed suicides and suicide one) or with mild symptoms facilities in the Federal Territory to
attempts. (category two) are required to help those facing self-quarantine
issues,“ he said. – Bernama
However, Siuman is of the view that
healthcare should be kept secular unless
and until a patient requests for a spiritual
or religious approach, and even then,
there are ethical issues if this happens in a
clinical setting.

In the context of the ongoing
pandemic, Vaisnavi said the government
could employ more contract psychologists
from the private sector to be integrated
into the current response. – Bernama

PERLIS 2 KELANTAN 592 LABUAN 11
TERENGGANU 317 741
1,044,071 KEDAH 1,000
PENANG 618

PERAK 583 PAHANG 403

170,224 865,439 8,408 SELANGOR 6,616 N.SEMBILAN 669
K. LUMPUR 2,457
16,117
11,526 207 PUTRAJAYA 122 907 SABAH
MALACCA 674
SARAWAK 405
JOHOR

PROGRESS STATISTICS FOR As of July 26

1,023 THE NATIONAL COVID-19 IMMUNISATION PROGRAMME

Received first dose Received second dose

12,131,329 5,708,147

█ BY CHARLES RAMENDRAN 5theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | JULY 28, 2021
[email protected]
KAJANG: While concern and worry NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS
have emerged among Covid-19
vaccine recipients over recent Livid over missing jab record
allegations of empty syringes being
used during immunisation, another o Man claims inoculation centre staff were unable to verify his first hours having his statement recorded
glitch involving vaccine records has Pfizer shot and attempted to administer Sinovac vaccine on second visit by police on Saturday.
left a journalist in dilemma.
On Saturday, he decided to take was issued as the Kajang centre had they returned the card upon my He also lodged a report with the
The 47-year-old reporter of a his second dose at the Bangi Golf run out of Pfizer appointment cards. insistence and also issued me a new Hulu Langat district health
vernacular newspapers was unsure of Resort Club vaccination centre and appointment card for the Pfizer department and was told that the
the vaccine type he received after a produced his appointment card. He said a doctor then told him second dose. case would be investigated.
visit to an immunisation centre here they would administer the Pfizer
showed no record of his first dose. “I was taken aback when I was told vaccine for him. “I chose not to take the second “The health department told me
that I would be receiving the Sinovac dose at that point as I was unsure that they would reply on Friday with
The reporter, who declined to be vaccine for my second dose. I told However, the reporter became what vaccine I had received. Was it the outcome. However, the following
named, told theSun that he went to a them that my first dose was Pfizer. anxious and requested further checks Pfizer or Sinovac? day I received a call from them and
community hall in Taman Bukit However, the medical personnel said be carried out. they said they were unable to do so
Mewah on June 16 to receive his first the appointment card I had produced “What if they had gone ahead and and needed more time.
dose and was informed by medical was one issued to Sinovac vaccine “The medical personnel checked given me mixed vaccine doses?
personnel that he would be given the recipients,” he said. the batch number of the Pfizer Could I have suffered any ill effects? I “I do not understand why they are
Pfizer vaccine. vaccine I purportedly received and did not want to take such a risk and unable to simply uncover this in five
The reporter said after checks found that no records of it existed. lodged a police report soon after,” days but need more time.”
He said he then received an were conducted, the staff told him he said.
appointment card for his second that the Sinovac appointment card “I became more anxious when Kajang police chief ACP Mohd
dose on July 7 but he did not take the they refused to return the The reporter spent about three Zaid Hassan, who confirmed
injection that day as medical appointment card to me. But later, receiving the reporter’s report
personnel told him he had a fever. yesterday, said the case has been
handed to the Health Ministry for
further action.

Drug syndicate led by foreign student busted

PETALING JAYA: Police have at the same apartment building. face-to-face transactions to avoid Mohamad Fakhruddin (left) showing the seized drugs in Kuala Lumpur yesterday.
busted a drug trafficking syndicate “The last two suspects were detection by authorities. – BERNAMAPIX
believed to be led by a foreign
private college student following arrested on Friday by the roadside Mohamad Fakhruddin said the
several raids in Shah Alam and of Persiaran Golf in Shah Alam at drugs were sold in small packets of
Petaling Jaya last week. about 6.15pm,” he said in a media RM100 for three grammes to locals
conference at the Petaling Jaya or foreign college students.
District police chief ACP district police headquarters
Mohamad Fakhruddin Abdul yesterday. Police also seized 11.5kg The syndicate is believed to have
Hamid said five foreigners from the of cannabis worth RM34,000. been conducting the illegal
Middle East studying in a private activities for almost a year and
college around the capital and an “The raiding team also seized obtained their drug supply from a
unemployed local, all aged between various drug packaging equipment, foreigner before processing and
20 and 34, were arrested in the raids. in addition to three cars that were packaging it.
allegedly used for illicit activities,”
He said two suspects were Mohamad Fakhruddin said. “The suspects have been
arrested in an apartment in Sungai remanded for seven days and the
Way in the first raid at about 6.30pm The syndicate targeted foreign case is being investigated under
last Thursday, which then led to the college students around Sungai Way Section 39B of the Dangerous Drugs
apprehension of two more suspects and Damansara as customers and Act 1952 for drug trafficking,” he
all payments were made in cash in said. – Bernama

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6 theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | JULY 28, 2021
NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS

Singer files motion

HK man convicted in firstto‘getlifeback’
WASHINGTON: Britney Spears has national security trial
launched a legal bid to remove her
father from a controversial
guardianship controlling her
finances and replace him with an
independent accountant, according
to court documents filed on Monday.
Mathew Rosengart, who was of the words was capable of inciting mitigation arguments tomorrow
appointed as her attorney this month, o Court finds former waiter guilty others to commit secession”. and sentencing will be announced
had pledged to move swiftly to of terrorism and inciting secession at a later date.
remove Jamie Spears after the singer She said Tong was aware of the Tong had pleaded not guilty to all
delivered two emotional testimonies slogan’s secessionist meaning, and charges, which stemmed from
to a Los Angeles court labeling the that he intended to communicate events on July 1 last year, shortly
conservatorship as “cruelty.” HONG KONG: The first person much of which has hinged on the this meaning to others. after the law was enacted.
“If the court doesn’t see this as charged under the national security interpretation of the slogan, Tong’s lawyer Clive Grossman
abuse ... I don’t know what is,” said law here was found guilty yesterday imposes new limits on free speech His actions caused “grave harm said outside the court no decision
Britney, 39, telling the court via of terrorism and inciting secession in Hong Kong, activists said. to society”, she said. had been made on an appeal.
telephone earlier this month that she in a landmark case that carries Nathan Law, an activist who has
wanted her father removed and to long-term implications for how the Human rights groups have also In a detailed judgment published been given asylum in Britain after
“press charges” against him. legislation will reshape the city’s criticised the decision to deny Tong on the judiciary’s website, the judges leaving Hong Kong, said in a
The Los Angeles Superior Court common law traditions. bail and a jury trial, which have also said Tong’s motorcycle was message on Twitter: “The judicial
website on Monday listed a new been key features of Hong Kong’s potentially a lethal weapon. system in Hong Kong is weaponised
petition to “Appoint Conservator of Ex-waiter Tong Ying-kit, 24, was rule of law. to suppress.”
Estate (Successor)”, and accused of driving his motorcycle “The defendant’s failure to stop Amnesty International’s
California-based accountant Jason into three riot policemen while Tong’s trial was presided over by at all the police checklines, Asia-Pacific regional director Yamini
Rubin is listed as “Nominee”. carrying a flag with the protest judges Esther Toh, Anthea Pang and eventually crashing into the police, Mishra said in a statement the
Rosengart argued in the petition slogan “Liberate Hong Kong, Wilson Chan, picked by city leader was a deliberate challenge mounted conviction was an “ominous
that a recent judge’s ruling found “Ms revolution of our times”, which Carrie Lam to hear national security against the police, a symbol of Hong moment for human rights” in the
Spears has sufficient capacity to prosecutors said was secessionist. cases. Kong’s law and order.” global financial hub. – Reuters
choose her own legal counsel, she
The widely anticipated ruling, Toh read out a summary of the An alternative charge of
ruling in court, saying “such display dangerous driving causing grievous
bodily harm was not considered.

The High Court will hear

likewise has sufficient capacity to
make this nomination”, The New York
Times reported.
At a brief hearing later on
Monday, Judge Brenda Penny said
she will rule in late September on the
bid to remove Jamie from control of
an estate estimated to be worth
US$60 million. – AFP

BRIEFS IRAN DETAINS AGENTS RARING TO
WORKING FOR ISRAEL GALLOP ...
A man
TEHRAN: Iran said yesterday its preparing his
security forces had arrested a horse for the
network of agents working for ‘Ekka’ cart race
Israel and had seized a cache of organised
weapons it said were planned for every year
use during recent unrest sparked during the
by water shortages. The holy month of
announcement came after nearly Shravana in
two weeks of protests over water the Indian city
shortages, mostly in southwest of Allahabad
Iran. “Mossad operatives yesterday.
intended to use the equipment in – AFPPIX
urban riots and assassinations,“
said an Intelligence Ministry Two Koreas restore severed communications
official, referring to Israel’s
intelligence agency. The seized SEOUL: North and South Korea agreed that re-establishing hotlines call since the suspension early collapse of a second summit
weapons included pistols, signalled a surprise thaw in relations would be a productive first step in yesterday, said Seoul’s Unification between Kim and then US president
grenades, assault rifles and yesterday, announcing the re-booting relations. Ministry, with the Defence Ministry Donald Trump in Hanoi.
ammunition. – Reuters restoration of cross-border adding military hotlines were also
communications that were severed “The top leaders of the North and back to normal operation. Sung Kim, the top US diplomat in
ETHIOPIANS CROSS more than a year ago and an the South agreed to make a big charge of North Korea negotiations
INTO SUDAN agreement between their two stride in recovering the mutual trust In a statement, Moon’s office under President Joe Biden, said last
leaders to improve ties. and promoting reconciliation by said that restoring the hotlines was month that Washington was ready
KHARTOUM: Three thousand restoring the cut-off inter-Korean the first step towards improving ties. to meet with Pyongyang “anywhere,
Ethiopian asylum-seekers crossed The joint announcement was the communication liaison lines,” said anytime, without preconditions”.
into Sudan late on Monday, first positive development since a North Korea’s KCNA news agency. “The two leaders also agreed to
according to a government series of summits between the restore mutual trust as soon as Analysts said the restoration of
report seen by AFP, hailing from North’s Kim Jong-un and the South’s Pyongyang unilaterally cut off all possible and move forward with the the inter-Korean hotlines signalled
the Amhara region which borders President Moon Jae-in in 2018 failed official military and political relationship again,” it said. Kim’s initial response to the US offer.
the conflict-hit Tigray region. The to achieve any significant communication links in June last
two regions, which both border breakthrough. year over activists sending Moon is credited with brokering “It looks like he has decided that
Sudan, are locked in a land anti-Pyongyang leaflets across the the first-ever summit between restoring inter-Korean relations is
dispute that has become central The two sides revealed that Kim border but the two sides said all North Korea and a sitting US beneficial to the North,” said Yang
to an eight-month-old war in and Moon had exchanged a series of lines were restored yesterday. president in Singapore in June 2018. Moo-jin, a professor at the
Tigray. “Three thousand people letters since April, in which they University of North Korean Studies.
from the Qemant tribe crossed They exchanged their first phone But Pyongyang largely cut off – AFP
the border into Taya village” in contact with Seoul following the
El-Gedaref state, said the report.
More asylum-seekers from the
war-torn region were pouring in,
it said. – AFP

Thailand forest park gets World Heritage approval

BANGKOK: A vast forest complex in But the park in western Thailand agency’s decision to list Kaeng peoples’ rights are respected in people, calling on indigenous people
Thailand has been added to Unesco’s is also home to an indigenous Krachan. protected areas across Asia,” said the to be treated as partners in protecting
World Heritage List, despite the community of ethnic Karen people, three experts in a statement released the forest, not threats.
United Nations’ own experts warning who have long accused the Thai United Nations experts last week on Friday by the office of the UN
of human rights violations against government of using violence and had urged the Unesco committee to Human Rights Commissioner. The park’s listing dismayed
indigenous people in the area. harassment to push them off their defer a decision until independent activist Pongsak Tonnamphet, an
land. monitors have visited the area and “The indigenous Karen in the indigenous resident of the area.
The Kaeng Krachan Forest the concerns about the indigenous national park continue to be forcibly
Complex is rich in biodiversity, Thailand had lobbied for years to people have been addressed. evicted and their houses burnt.” “The decision was not made
including the critically endangered get World Heritage status for the based on basic human rights
Siamese crocodile, said Unesco on complex, and Environment Minister “This is an important They also said the World Heritage principles ... the minority had no
Monday in its listing announcement. Varawut Silpa-archa lauded the UN precedent-setting case, and may nomination process did not have chance to speak,” said the 24-year-old
influence policies on how indigenous effective participation of indigenous yesterday. – AFP

BRIEFS SIX ROHINGYA KILLED 7theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | JULY 28, 2021
IN LANDSLIDES
* NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS
DHAKA: At least six Rohingya died
yesterday and thousands have been Biden announces end of
relocated in refugee camps in US combat ops in Iraq
Bangladesh’s southeast after monsoon
rains triggered landslides and flash o Washington remains “We’re not going to be, at the end of the year, “Today, our relation is stronger than ever –
floods in the hilly settlements, officials committed to security in a combat mission.” our partnership in economy, the environment,
said. Five, including three children, cooperation amid IS threat health, education, culture and more.”
were buried and killed after part of a hill Eighteen years after the US invaded Iraq to
crushed their bamboo-and-tarpaulin WASHINGTON: President Joe Biden declared remove strongman Saddam Hussein, and seven The face-to-face meeting, analysts said, was
shanties in Balukhali camp, said US relations with Iraq would enter a new phase, years after a US-led coalition battled IS to give support and cover to Mustafa, in power
refugee commissioner Shah Rezwan with American troops exiting combat extremists who threatened the country, for little over a year and under pressure from
Hayat. Another Rohingya child died operations in the country by year-end as he held Washington turned its focus to other types of Iran-allied political factions to push US troops
after he drowned in a stream in the talks on Monday with Prime Minister Mustafa assistance. from his country.
nearby Palongkhali refugee camp, he al-Kadhemi.
said, adding all streams in the camps It said it would help strengthen electric A senior US official who would not be
were raging due to flash floods. – AFP Amid the threat of an Islamic State (IS) power supplies, fight Covid-19, confront the identified commended Mustafa for being
resurgence and Iran’s powerful influence in impacts of climate change and support private pragmatic and “a problem solver rather than
ONE DEAD, 16 HURT IN Baghdad, Biden stressed that Washington sector development. someone who tries to use problems for his own
BLAST AT CHEMICAL PARK remains “committed to our security political interests”.
cooperation” while Mustafa reaffirmed their Some 500,000 coronavirus vaccine doses
BERLIN: One person died and 16 people “strategic partnership.” pledged to Baghdad “will be there in a couple of The main concern from Washington is to
were injured yesterday following an weeks”, Biden told Mustafa in the White House. lend enough support to Iraqi security forces to
explosion at a chemical park in US troops in Iraq will “to continue to train, keep up the fight against IS remnants – while
Leverkusen, Germany, the site operator assist, help and deal with IS as it arises,” said Biden also emphasised US support for also keeping a damper on Iran’s influence in
said as residents were urged to stay Biden. elections in October in Iraq, saying Washington Iraq.
indoors because of black smoke rising is working closely with Baghdad, the Gulf
from the area. The blast happened at But in a shift that comes as the United States Cooperation Council and the United Nations to Since last year, the principal role of the
9.40am (3.40pm in Malaysia) “for still pulls out of Afghanistan, the US leader ensure the elections are fair. remaining US troops in Iraq has been to train,
unknown reasons”, said Chempark confirmed that the 2,500 American troops still in advise and support their Iraqi counterparts.
operator Currenta. At least two of the Iraq won’t be fighting. “We support strengthening Iraq’s democracy
injured were in serious condition, and and we’re anxious to make sure the election But powerful pro-Iran political factions,
four workers were missing, it said. The goes forward.” which are crucial to Mustafa retaining power,
explosion prompted Germany’s NINA are overtly hostile to the American presence,
warning app to send an “extreme Mustafa said he was in Washington “to and are accused of being behind rocket and
danger” alert to residents, telling them discuss the future of our nation”. drone attacks on bases in Iraq where US forces
to close their doors and windows and operate. – AFP
keep emergency numbers free as much “America, they help Iraq. Together we fight,
as possible. – AFP fight and defeat IS.”

Myanmar floods and coup complicate growing Covid outbreak End of UK
pandemic
YANGON: Flooding in Myanmar has displaced tanks, over murky flood waters in the Kayin Infections in Myanmar have surged since might be near:
hundreds of people, residents said yesterday, town of Myawaddy, Facebook photographs last month, with 4,630 cases and 396 deaths Epidemiologist
adding to the misery of a nation struggling posted by the Karen Information Centre media reported on Monday. Medics and funeral
against a fast-spreading coronavirus outbreak group showed. services put the toll far higher. LONDON: The end of Britain’s Covid
while living through the chaos created by a pandemic could be just months away as
military coup in February. About 500 residential areas along the Thai The military has struggled to keep control vaccines have dramatically reduced the risk
border were affected, displacing hundreds of since taking power in a February coup that of hospitalisation and death, said Imperial
Downpours since the weekend caused people, the group said. triggered nationwide protests, strikes and College epidemiologist Neil Ferguson
flooding in several areas, forcing healthcare fighting on multiple fronts in border regions as yesterday.
workers to move Covid-19 patients through Bo Bo Win, head of a charity in the town of civilians and ethnic armed groups took up arms
drenched streets and alleys in search of dry Mawlamyine 120km away, said at least another against the junta. Prime Minister Boris Johnson is betting
ground. 500 people there had also suffered in the floods. that he can get one of Europe’s largest
Angered by doctors’ support for anti-junta economies firing again because so many
“Hundreds of houses are submerged in “These floods swamping large areas of protests, Myanmar’s military has also arrested people are now vaccinated, a decision which
water and only their roofs can be seen,” said eastern Myanmar are the worst in some places several doctors treating Covid-19 patients marks a new chapter in the global response
Pyae Sone, a social worker in Hlaingbwe in for many years and they are causing further independently. to the novel coronavirus.
Kayin state. misery for people already suffering as Covid-19
surges across the country,” said Joy Singhal, “The United Nations must act immediately The number of new daily Covid-19 cases
“Covid is spreading in the town. There are so head of the Myanmar Delegation, International to halt the military junta’s attacks, harassment, has fallen each day for the last six last days,
many people who have lost their sense of smell Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent and detentions in the midst of a Covid-19 although Johnson has stressed the pandemic
and many who are sick, it’s not clear if it’s Covid Societies (IFRC). crisis,” said Thomas Andrews, UN special is not over.
or seasonal flu.” rapporteur on human rights in Myanmar.
He said the IFRC was urgently securing “We’re not completely out of the woods
Volunteers and medical workers trundled more relief supplies to support thousands of He called for a “Covid ceasefire” to tackle the but the equation has fundamentally
bedridden patients, still hooked up to oxygen people at risk from further floods. crisis. – Reuters changed,” Ferguson, whose early 2020
modelling of the virus’s likely spread
MASS EVACUATION ... Rescuers alarmed governments across the world at the
moving residents to safety at a flooded outset of the pandemic, told the BBC.
area in Xinxiang city in China’s central
Henan province. – AFPPIX “The effect of vaccines has been huge in
reducing the risk of hospitalisation and
death and I’m positive that by late
September (or) October, we will be looking
back at most of the pandemic.”

British data shows that a recent spike in
infections has so far not led to a vast increase
in deaths, which fell to just 14 on Monday,
although the number of Covid patients in
British hospitals has risen to 5,238.

Johnson lifted the vast majority of Covid
restrictions on July 19 to restart an economy
damaged by a series of on-off lockdowns
since March last year.

If it pays off, Britain’s example could offer
a way out of the pandemic, although
Johnson’s gamble could be derailed by the
possible emergence of a variant capable of
resisting vaccines – or if ill people overwhelm
the health service.

By October, Britain will “still have Covid
with us, we’ll still have people dying from
Covid, but we’ll put the bulk of the pandemic
behind us,” said Ferguson.

Daily new cases, which in the current
wave peaked at 54,674 on July 17, fell to
24,950 on Monday. – Reuters

8 theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | JULY 28, 2021
SPEAK UP

COMMENT byVasanthi Ramachandran COMMENT byKennethWu

Pandemic demands Time to change strategies

hands-on ministers IT is good news that the Covid-19 the potential risk of contracting the virus.
THE Covid-19 virus has no moral vaccination rollout has been accelerated in The same principle can be applied to allow
conscience. It is happily multiplying in a the Ministry of Women, Family and Community recent weeks. However, there is an urgent vaccinated individuals to dine in
conducive environment, while one half of Development, while it merged with the need for the government to change some restaurants or return to their workplace.
the government is toiling away, the other Welfare Ministry. of the policies in order to reduce further
half remains opaque, missing and in anonymity for lost of lives and livelihoods. Vaccination is the only way to prevent
the last 17 months. The ministry kept growing, with sprawling new excessive bodies from piling up. It is hard
departments, institutions, welfare homes, creches, Many have perished due to excessive to regulate people behaviour. This is
There are 32 Cabinet ministers and 38 deputy now with a massive almost 10,000 staff. restrictions and quarantines. There are still especially true for places like Sabah and
ministers. For some reason, we are only familiar many who are reluctant to be vaccinated. Kelantan where the vaccine rollout is slow.
with the names and portfolios of the few ministers During Shahrizat’s tenure, Malaysia hosted the One of the ways to encourage more people These are the states which are vulnerable
who make the news for the right reason. This is an first Non-Aligned Movement Women Ministerial to come forward is to provide incentives. without vaccines. Rolling out vaccines as
opportunity for everyone to stand up, be counted Meeting, attended by ministers from all over the quickly as possible and providing
and take the spotlight. world and produced the Nam Putrajaya For example, fully vaccinated travellers incentives for people who have been
Declaration, for international point of reference. returning to Malaysia from overseas, with inoculated will help, and this has to be
Right now, we are going through an the exception of a number of countries that done urgently if we are to avoid more
unprecedented pandemic crisis. We need a whole- Following that, the Nam Institute for the are on the red list, could be home tsunamis in other parts of Malaysia.
of-government and whole-of society approach to Empowerment of Women (NIEW) headquarters, in quarantined or not at all, provided they do
resolve hundreds of related issues. Every single Kuala Lumpur, was set up to develop partnerships not have symptoms. Indonesia is a clear example for us to
day, people are looking towards the government to with all member countries. The list is endless. The learn from and we need to act quickly.
give them hope and confidence that normalcy will ministry grew, was relevant and was internationally The UK has long required most Reducing unnecessary red tape for private
be restored. visible. It is the minister who makes things happen. travellers returning back to self-isolate at clinics in delivering vaccines is another
home. They have now changed their urgent matter that needs to be addressed.
Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin has Khairy Jamaluddin, the minister of Science, strategies based on latest information.
allocated RM322.5 billion to manage the present Technology and Innovation, runs a small ministry, There will be no quarantine for those who Many private clinics have offered to
crisis, boost our economic resilience and reinforce with the lowest budget in the government. have been fully vaccinated, provided they assist but there are apparently too much
healthcare. This is the largest budget ever in the have not visited any of the countries on red tape, which is slowing down the
history of Malaysia. The prime minister appointed Khairy as the their red list. If too many people are process. Mobile units are necessary in
coordinating minister for the National Covid-19 restricted unnecessarily, the diminished order to vaccinate as many factory and
Finance Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Immunisation Programme. He worked workforce of the country will affect the construction workers, and undocumented
Abdul Aziz said the generous budget was innovatively and diligently, procured vaccines and economy further. Unnecessary migrants. Many of these workers and
specifically designed to champion the cause of the speedily delivered it to well-facilitated vaccination quarantines can also lead to anxiety, migrants are more likely to transmit the
vulnerable groups who are currently facing centres. depression and other social ills. virus to others as they may not be able to
difficulties. To do this, the government needs every practise strict social distancing measures.
single person in the Cabinet, their resources and The rapid vaccination of the population Some of the policies in Malaysia are still
their staff to design effective channels and tools to presented a spectrum of challenges, from based on old evidence. There is an urgent Mobile teams should go from factory to
ensure this money reaches every nook and corner production to distribution, deployment and need to review them. One recent official factory. I am sure bosses would line up
of the needy in Malaysia. importantly, acceptance. As I write this, 19 million health report published in the UK revealed their workers to be vaccinated if they are
people have registered for vaccines and more than that the rate of someone contracting told only vaccinated workers are allowed
Given the large budget, any Malaysian who 10 million have received their first dose. So far, the Covid-19 after full vaccination is low, to work.
starves or goes hungry is a symptom of a failed process has been visibly efficient. around 0.13%. Common sense tells us that
delivery system. However, despite the huge the possibility of them transmitting the Even if only 50% of the workers are
budgets and resources, some ministers have not One of the biggest hurdles, all over the world, disease must be even lower. vaccinated, it would still buy time for
even made a single statement on how their has been in convincing and building trust that hospitals in the Klang Valley to reorganise
ministry is specifically addressing this pandemic – vaccines indeed work. No one in the world was The US Centres for Disease Control and their resources. This is a race against time.
on its own. prepared for this pandemic. Yet, with conscientious Prevention reported that the risk of being
planning, other countries have turned this infected after full vaccination is around Many deaths can be avoided with the
For instance, the ministry responsible for the situation around. These are extraordinary times 0.08%. Out of 75 million Americans right policies. By taking a few steps and
welfare of the community and has massive data, that call for extraordinary sacrifices. vaccinated, only 5,800 tested positive for changing policies swiftly, I believe the
statistical and welfare literacy with direct access to the virus. More importantly, the risk of government will have a better chance to
the underprivileged. This is the time to use all its Our frontliners face daily threats of death, and them transmitting the virus is even lower. curb the spread, bring down death rates
resources and play a pivotal role. yet they are not missing in action. They turn up. As Therefore, it is important to find a balance and at the same time lift the people’s
you can tell, many ministers could play an between managing livelihoods and deaths spirits.
In 2001, the then prime minister, Tun Dr individualistic, prominent role, without being told due to Covid.
Mahathir Mohamad, set up a tiny Women’s Affairs so. Covid-19 should not be an excuse for The country desperately needs more
Ministry, with only four staff, and a faintly sketched government departments and agencies not to be Immunity against the virus is extremely good news. My appeal to the public is not
direction. Within a few years, this ministry grew to fully operational – it should be the very reason for good three weeks after full vaccination. It is to miss vaccine appointments. Accept any
a colossal size and addressed a varied spectrum of them to go beyond the call of duty. logical to allow people who have been fully vaccine that is provided. Some protection
issues ranging from children, women, senior vaccinated to quarantine at home. is better than none at all.
citizens to victims of natural disaster. This can only happen if the ministers
understand the full depth and range of the trauma, Malaysians are more likely to think There is supporting evidence to show
In each category of the above issues, the then the chaos and, above all, the indignity that people positively of a government who is willing to that 90% to 96% of fully vaccinated
minister Tan Sri Shahrizat Jalil took a central role, are being subjected to. change strategies based on logical reasons individuals do not suffer severely from
“it’s my ministry’s problem” responsibility and and updated evidence. This is an Covid infection. If a vast majority of
integrated with other ministries’ resources to The Covid-19 virus will take a gracious bow and opportunity for the government to score infected individuals are not severely ill or
resolve problems, like natural disasters issues of leave us at some point. But the future generation favourable points with the people. hospitalised, we can eventually learn to
yearly massive floods. will never forgive us if the situation gets any worse. Prolonged and unnecessary quarantines live with the virus. Your decision to get
would only cause more public resentment. vaccinated will help save lives, jobs and the
In just a few years, the ministry was redefined as Vasanthi Ramachandran is an author, brand country.
strategist and runs Helping Hands. Another incentive is to allow fully
vaccinated individuals to make We are at war with this virus, and
Comments: [email protected] permissible trips between districts if they Malaysia can and must win this war.
do not show any symptoms, instead of
going to police stations to apply for travel Dr Kenneth Wu is a Consultant
permits. This will save time and minimise Nephrologist & Physician in Sabah.
Comments: [email protected]

TELLING IT AS IT IS

LIFESTYLE YOUTH FASHION ENTERTAINMENT

PICTURE COURTESY OF LUNADIRA Sovuiblfeusl WEDNESDAY | JULY 28, 2021
It’s the singer, not the
song. Lunadira owns the Malaysian brand
music with her own style advocates mindful
>>> Page 3 consumption

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Online bookseller
spreads joy to
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ENTERTAINMENT

2 theSun LYFE ON WEDNESDAY | JULY 28, 2021

PRINCE’S estate will soon The lost album Welcome 2
issue a completed record America will
from the mercurial artist’s o With first posthumous album, Prince pierces the American condition finally see the
storied music vault, the first light of day on
never-before-heard album released stood for: liberty and justice for all,“ “as something that handcuffed stored in the vault under Paisley Park, July 30.
since the musician’s shock death five Hayes told AFP in an interview. “And people.” though some of its contents have superstar was controlling of his work,
years ago. we painfully know that that’s not the been moved to the Los Angeles image, and carefully constructed
case.” But while the album tackles climate-controlled storage facility enigmatic persona. Doing right by
Welcome 2 America – a 12-track decidedly weighty topics – Running Iron Mountain. him is no small challenge.
album finished in 2010, but shelved For Prince a key component of Game (Son of a Slave Master) centres Previously the estate has re-
for reasons unknown in the famous freedom was ownership, according to on racism, while Same Page, Different “It was crazy,” Hayes says of the released expanded versions of
vault at Prince’s Paisley Park Hayes: “If you don’t own your own Book touches on religious strife – the vault. “All of this music, like all over Prince’s milestone albums, like 1999
compound near Minneapolis – offers things, you don’t have any freedom.” album also includes vintage the floor, all stacked up to the ceiling.” and Sign O’ The Times, along with
a prophetic window into social danceable and carnal slow jam Prince demos of songs he wrote that
struggles at today’s forefront, delving The artist was well known for in the mix. “You have to think about how eventually became other artists’ hits.
into racism, political division, taking labels to task, famously prolific a cat has to be to have his own Prince was never clear about his
technology and disinformation. scrawling “slave” on his cheek and Hot Summer is a major-key, guitar- vault full of stuff. And I mean FULL of intentions for his unheard work, but
changing his name to an heavy, feel-good track, while the stuff.” he had taken steps to preserve his
Melding urgent lyricism with unpronounceable “love symbol” in sparsely arranged When She Comes tapes, films, scripts and music along
languorous funk, the pop shapeshifter the 1990s to protest Warner’s bid to featuring the artist’s falsetto recalls the Hayes recalled that in the mid- with his Paisley Park compound,
Prince sings of America as the “land of rein in his prolific musical output. hypersexual Dirty Mind Prince of 1990s Prince told him he had taken leading his estate – run by his sister
the free / home of the slave.” yore. time off for the first time. and five half-siblings – to believe he
Hayes said Prince – who didn’t Excavating the vault wanted it shared.
The artist, who died at 57 on April carry a cell phone and memorised An untold number of songs –upwards “He said, ‘never in my career have Asked by Rolling Stone in 2014
21, 2016 following an accidental necessary phone numbers – also of 8,000, per Princian lore – were I taken a week where I didn’t write a what he wanted to come of his oeuvre
fentanyl overdose, could not have discussed freedom in terms of song and pick up my guitar.’” after he was gone, Prince himself was
known that in the years following his technology and devices, which he saw characteristically nebulous.
death his beloved home city would The release of Prince’s vast trove of “I don’t think about ‘gone.’” – ETX
explode in furor and protest after the music remains a sensitive subject; the Studio
police killing of George Floyd, a Black
man.

But Prince was a career activist,
advocating for the empowerment of
Black people in the recording industry
and beyond.

“You go to school just to learn /
about what never existed,” Prince
sings on the closing track One Day We
Will All B Free.

“But if your history only burns / it’s
better to resist it.”

The album, out July 30, sees Prince
level “a laser-focused assault on the
condition of America,” said Morris
Hayes, Prince’s longtime keyboardist
and musical director.

“What’s going on with social
media, social justice, and social
consciousness ... this is a concerted
effort to really speak about these
things,” said Hayes, who co-produced
the album.

“I really dug how raw it was, and as
far as my production, I just wanted to
keep it to where its raw and I don’t get
in the way of what he’s trying to say.”
‘Liberty and justice’
For Hayes, the singular artist “was way
ahead”, like a “sage sitting in the
Himalayas somewhere”, in
foreshadowing the current moment.

“He wanted, I believe, a country
that actually stood for what it said it

Salzburg festival hall, a world temple in the sound of music
MANY of opera’s most celebrated sound intimacy,” he added. every year here since, will be in high
voices have soared and resonated The Large Festival Hall (Grosses Festpielhaus) of the Salzburg Festival in Salzburg, “The softest sounds travel in a heels, as it questions the identity of
in its highly acclaimed acoustics, Austria. gender.
yet the creation of the historic way that allows even the farthest ‘Transcending nations’
auditorium at the Salzburg Festival cubic metres (around 1.7 million ‘Intimidating, yet intimate’ away listener to experience them Despite the coronavirus pandemic,
was a tall order 60 years ago. cubic feet) of rock in order to erect But it is “its truly wonderful very directly.” some 220,000 tickets for the
the new hall’s 100-metre-wide acoustics” that give the Large Salzburg Festival, which runs until
Only just free of the post-World (330-foot) stage, while the Festival Hall its special aura, says Rabl-Stadler said the technical Aug 31, have been sold, costing
War II occupying forces that left in auditorium holds more than 2,000 Austrian maestro Franz Welser- director of Paris’ famed Bastille anywhere between five and 445
1955 and still in ruins, Austria set its people. Moest, who is conducting another Opera had remarked with surprise euros (US$6 and US$524) --
sights firmly on culture, turning of this year’s five opera productions, that such good acoustics had been although half were under 105 euros.
former episcopal stables into the Five imposing bronze doors Richard Strauss’ Elektra. possible in the 1960s.
Large Festival Hall (Grosses provide street-level entry into a With a 60-million-euro budget, a
Festspielhaus) as a symbol of foyer and hall adorned with wood “Going on stage, it feels like a So, it is not without some quarter of which is state funding,
renewal. panelling, frescoes, mosaics, place of intimidating proportions, trepidation that newcomers take more than 150 events are planned
sculptures and tapestries. and yet it allows for an incredible their place in the festival hall over nearly seven weeks.
Since then, the stage has seen spotlight, conscious of all the great
the likes of Placido Domingo and names who have gone before them, Months of work has gone into
Luciano Pavarotti but festival as was the case for Welser-Moest crafting the masks for Don
president Helga Rabl-Stadler said: who admitted he’d been “very Giovanni, the opera by Wolfgang
“It’s a pure miracle however that nervous” on his first appearance as Amadeus Mozart being staged in
this hall saw the light of day.” conductor there in 1989. the composer’s home town by
Italian director Romeo Castellucci.
On the sidelines of rehearsals The passion and anticipation
for Don Giovanni topping the line- among Salzburg Festival audiences, Milliners have created the
up at the prestigious annual he said, made it feel like headwear and costume makers
summer event this year, Rabl- participating in the Olympic Games carried out umpteen fittings.
Stadler said that the Austrian state for performers.
had managed to stump up “an “Striving for a common goal, all
enormous sum” in 1956 to get the “You’re pitting yourself against these people coming from different
flagship initiative off the ground. the best of the best,” he told AFP in continents, is an immense task,”
an interview. said Rabl-Stadler, who is due to bow
At the time, the city’s music and out as president later this year after
theatre festival, established in 1920 But the role of the festival is also more than 25 years.
as a peace project in the aftermath to look ahead and help the talents
of World War I, was held in more set to shape the music of the future “In 1920, the founders planned a
modest neighbourhoods that to blossom, stressed artistic director world artistic centre on Austrian soil
backed onto the steep cliffs that Markus Hinterhaeuser. transcending nations,” she said.
overlook the old town.
And this year’s performance of “Maybe that’s what we’ve done, a
Workers had to dynamite 50,000 the “Everyman” play, written by one little bit.” – ETX Studio
of the festival’s original founders
Hugo von Hofmannsthal and staged

ENTERTAINMENT

3theSun LYFE ON WEDNESDAY | JULY 28, 2021

Soulful vibes
oIt’s the singer, not the song. Lunadira
owns the music with her own style

█ BY JOHN TAN to perform with my friends. That was Lunadira
awesome! Another one would be creating during one of
LUNADIRA has come a long way content for companies outside of KL who her live
since her days as a cover singer. The recommend my music. I feel like that is a performances.
songstress who first found comfort big plus as well. – PHOTO
in singing pop songs on Youtube, Tell us more about the inspiration behind COURTESY OF
has now established herself as a local indie your latest EP, Tangerine? ALL IS
darling. In fact, she has taken the local Oh lord, a lot of stories but I will just give AMAZING
music scene by storm. you the more interesting ones. It was
basically about Reddi Rocket’s cat who when to create again. always consume on your screen, and I feel
Not only has she performed for major passed away when we were recording. We Have you started working on an album? there is a limitation there.
festivals like Good Vibes and Urbanscapes, kind of named it after the cat Tanji and I feel Right now, music is on a pause. I do have a
but Lunadira has also secured a massive like we were making statements about the lot of demos that I need to work on, but for So, I am just trying to balance out my life,
following online. unspoken aspects of a relationship through now, I am trying to have a healthy mind and hopefully find inspiration in the
the songs. Uncomfortable things that you before I can start working on music again. I mundane. As for an album, I do think I have
Her single, Stuck with you gained over do not want to talk about. It is like peeling feel like the way that I write; I need to have some time and I like the idea of EPs now.
1.3 million streams on Spotify from over 80 layers from a tangerine. You do not know some kind of substance. And I feel like with But the album will come and I will make
countries. She also has over 33 thousand what you are going to get. But most of the not much going on right now it is hard to sure of it. But for now, I am trying to
monthly listeners on the platform. Though time, it is bittersweet. exercise my self-expression in small
her musical journey started during her Speaking of the EP, how did the amounts.
teens, the songstress only considered collaboration with Reddi Rocket happen?
turning professional during her early 20s. We were always in each other’s circles when
I moved to KL. But we only started making
“I have always been surrounded by music like two years before the EP. And I
music,” she says. “My parents always guess it just came naturally and writing a
encouraged me to participate in project together was the next step. I like
extracurricular activities that involved working with him because as a producer, he
creating or singing something. But I only understands the language that I speak.
started doing it properly when I began
getting encouragement from my friends.” Because I am not a producer myself, so
Who were some of the musical artistes sometimes the way that I describe things is
you grew up listening to? not the correct terminology for music
I was introduced to music through the production. But he gets it and understands
radio. But I only started liking singers and the assignment. We also share the same
songwriters when I was in high school. I music taste.
think at that age, you feel like the whole How was the whole process shooting the
world is against you. So, I was listening to EP live visual performance?
people like Frank Ocean and Daughter It was a little stressful because we were
whose songs are very emotional and sad. I trying to emphasise the fact that the SOPs
also like Maroon 5 but I prefer their older were followed. Hence, it was a really small
stuff. team. But usually, with projects like that, I
What has been the most memorable feel that the more people on your crew, the
moment so far in your musical journey? better because you have to run against time.
I have been thinking a lot about the So, everyone was doing everything in time.
opportunities that I have received People were switching positions behind the
especially now during the pandemic. And I scenes.
feel like I just miss performing. I want to
perform again and I want to connect with Though it was challenging, I feel like it
people again. I feel like that is magical and I was worth it because that was the last time,
feel really lucky that I could have done I got to work on something without extra
those things. restrictions. I felt like I could create
something and enjoy it. Instead of waiting
Hence why I feel like every performance
is a highlight for me. But if I had to pick one,
it would the Good Vibes Festival where I got

Fans honour Amy Winehouse in London decade after her death
TOURISTS and residents remembered British with alcohol and drugs.
singer Amy Winehouse on Friday, paying ‘Unique’ Fans gather at a temporary shrine close to the former house of British singer Amy Winehouse in north
tribute on the tenth anniversary of her death at “Looking at her fall has made us realise that London.
a statue in her memory in the London borough we’re all humans and we need to treat each
of Camden. other with respect,” Vyas said. “take it all in and enjoy the vibes”. individuality that she brought – I miss her a lot
“She did what she wanted to do – nothing and her fashion,” the school worker added. –
A red rose had been placed on the bronze “It makes me realise how important it is to fazed her, she was her own person. I loved the ETX Studio
statue in the soul singer’s trademark beehive maintain your own integrity and inner strength.
hair style to mark the anniversary of
Winehouse’s death at her home in the north “I want her to be remembered as someone
London neighbourhood in 2011. who represents who we are as Camden,” the
health technology manager explained.
The star’s untimely death from alcohol
poisoning after years battling addiction and an “I want people to remember her as the jazz
eating disorder added her name to the so-called girl who made it big.”
“27 club”, a group of talented but troubled artists
whose lives were cut short at the same young The tenth anniversary has also provoked
age. introspection over Winehouse’s memory,
which had been shaped by the tabloid narrative
Ravi Vyas, 26, was among the well-wishers surrounding her drinking, drug use and
who thronged Camden’s cobbled streets and relationship with ex-husband Blake Fielder-
left pink, red and yellow roses by the feet of the Civil.
statue – a life-sized depiction of the diminutive
singer. “She’s remembered in the public eye as
being this drug addict – that’s not how we
He recalled “crying my eyes out on the day should remember her at all,” 16-year-old
she passed”. student Reece Fielding said.

“Now, after 10 years, it’s my moment to pay “We should remember her for her talent,
my condolences,” the Camden local told AFP. style, attitude that no-one else even dared to
have.
The anniversary of the Back to Black and
Rehab singer’s passing has inspired fans to look “When I go through rough patches, I like to
back at her short but impactful career. listen to her music, it helps me and sums up
how I’m feeling. Her music is unique.”
It was characterised by her distinct jazz style
– which contrasted heavily with the pop music Grace Newham, 21, said she had come to
of the time – and her destructive relationship visit the statue on the warm summer’s day to

FASHION

4 theSun LYFE ON WEDNESDAY | JULY 28, 2021

Minimalist players
o Less is always more for Malaysian brand that advocates
mindful consumption with its curated designs of chic utility

Racism is still all too prevalent in the British fashion industry, warns a new study. █ BY JASON LIM wear collection for the Eid season.
Specifically for this, we prefer to maintain the
How the UK fashion industry LOCAL clothing brand Monokerom is classic silhouettes of traditional clothing, and
still lacks diversity a wordplay on “monochrome”, that then add our own modernised elements.
puts an emphasis on minimalist and
FACED with the resurgence of the Black represented in advertising campaigns, versatile garments unimpeded by Staying true to our philosophy of mindful
Lives Matter movement, the fashion fashion shoots and on the catwalk. And yet, trends. consumption, our traditional wear
industry pledged to change. So where do more than 90% of participants said they collections are always designed in a way that
things stand a year down the line? A new would support a brand financially if it was In 2016, designers Amirah Imanie and transcends the festive period. Usually as a
British study sadly reveals that known to be inclusive. Hafiz Azri, who are also partners in life, were two-piece outfit that can also be worn
“discrimination pervades in the fashion determined to prevail over the cycle of fast separately and styled differently.
industry”. The report authors highlight two fashion with well-thought and produced What are some of the sustainable practices
booming markets that industry players clothing “Minimalism encourages us to at Monokerom?
As the basis for this research, the could embrace to better meet consumer remove anything non-essential, not just from Other than producing functional garments
Fashion Roundtable think tank and the All- demands for diversity: unisex or gender our closets but also from our lives,” explains that transcend time and place, we make a
Party Parliamentary Group for Fashion and fluid fashion, and so-called modest fashion. Amirah. conscious effort to select only high-quality
Textiles interviewed more than 330 British While more and more brands now offer natural fibres and materials for our pieces as
people working in the fashion industry. gender-neutral clothing, relatively few have “It means that you value yourself more they are friendlier on the environment and
More than two thirds of them declare entered the niche of modest fashion. than material things and make a conscious have a longer lifespan when given the right
having experienced or witnessed However, more than 85% of Muslim women choice to surround yourself with the things care. A few years back, we managed to
discrimination within the sector. Most such interviewed do not recognise themselves in you love and nothing else. eliminate our single-use wrapping paper
incidents are related to physical mass market collections. packaging by using reusable bags instead.
appearance (73.4%), followed by ethnicity “Primarily, it is a practice that harmonises What are your thoughts on sustainability
(49.2%) and age (48.6%). The industry would be wise to remedy well with our brand and personal and consumption habits in the Malaysian
this, as the modest fashion market is philosophy.” fashion industry?
While this discrimination manifests expected to reach US$360 billion by 2023. How did sustainability and slow fashion I believe that it needs more voices to speak
itself in a variety of ways, many minority But fashion needs to change the way it come into the picture? about sustainability and slow fashion. With
respondents report not having the same operates in order to get there, and include We knew that we wanted our business to be that said, there has been a rise of local brands
professional opportunities as some of their more diverse professionals among its driven by a bigger purpose beyond just that are heading in the right direction. Many
colleagues. ranks. selling garments, that is, to encourage the independent designers and labels are
public to forego disposable consumption of starting to make the shift as the public
“Bosses have told me that I should be “The [modest fashion] market is huge clothing that we have unfortunately grown becomes more aware and protective of the
working harder as I am British Chinese, we and there is so much room for creativity, but accustomed to. environment.
do not need as much as anyone else, as we it is so hard to raise it in meetings or touch
do not ask for more. The stereotype of being on anti-Islamic rhetoric for fear of coming By creating and producing long-lasting At Monokerom, we plan to continue
hardworking, works against us as being across as a terrorist sympathiser. It’s that garments that can be worn in many ways and being a part of the movement by using our
nerdy, uncreative and unsociable, so we do basic,” notes one designer. serve many needs, we hope to reduce waste, platform to share more about these issues.
not tend to get leadership roles as we are Towards legislation? which is prevalent in the fashion industry What does the role of a fashion designer
seen as not having people skills,” said one Many participants in the study (83%) today. mean to you?
respondent. believe that the British government has a As fashion designers and creatives, we need
role to play in this change of mentality, and When producing a garment, we always to keep creating to give people something to
The phenomenon appears to be the government should demand strong ensure that it isn’t designed to fit just one look forward to and be inspired by it, to take
particularly pronounced among Black commitments to greater inclusivity from specific style or type of person. Therefore, we their minds off the mess that is our ongoing
respondents. Many report having worked in the fashion industry. It’s an opinion shared take inspiration from viewing people’s reality.
hostile work environments, where they by the journalist Lottie Jackson, who creativity on how they can take a piece of our
experienced inappropriate comments regularly works with the Fashion clothing and adapt it into their personal However, it is also important for us to go
about their physical appearance or were Roundtable think tank. wardrobes. beyond what we create. We need to come
insulted. Some manifestations of racism, How does Monokerom draw inspiration together and use our platforms to bring
however, are more pernicious, as one “Creativity and policymaking are viewed from art and culture? awareness to the public regarding the
fashion lecturer says: “In terms of as distinctly separate spheres. They are, Living in multicultural Malaysia, there is important matters that are happening both
witnessing structural racism – I knew it was ostensibly, seen to be antagonistic forces. plenty to be inspired by when designing a locally and globally.
because of my color. It’s the silent racism. So After all, why would a free-spirited, creative new collection. There have also been
silent. Can I just say, the people who were mind want to be constrained by the instances when a silhouette of a garment was
holding me back were my colleagues whom rigmarole of legislation?” she states. inspired by architectural design, and colours
I got on with. You just suck it up, to get angry were selected based on what we see in
would just go against you.” “It’s for this reason, we’ve rarely stopped nature.
Untapped commercial opportunities to consider the immense value that a
According to the study, the industry’s lack of collaborative, joined-up approach could We have also grown a liking for Japanese
diversity is also visible in runway shows, bring to each separate domain – building a culture, as you may notice that some of our
magazines and clothing stores. Nearly nine link between policymakers and an industry designs are a nod to the aesthetics.
out of ten respondents do not feel which represents £35 billion of UK GDP.” – How do you balance modern minimalism
ETX Studio with traditional aesthetic cues?
Once a year, we come up with a traditional

Jean shorts for men are
making a comeback
this summer.

FASHION

5theSun LYFE ON WEDNESDAY | JULY 28, 2021

Practising engineer Hafiz (left)
leads the logistics and

finances of Monokerom and
Amirah takes charge of design

and production. – PICTURES
COURTESY OF MONOKEROM

Monokerom Eid 2021
collection titled Aura.

The rise of ugly fashion continues with men’s jean shorts

WHILE Bermuda shorts and swim of pieces as ugly as they are uncool, season is upon us. Big ready-to-wear
shorts -- and possibly even sports like the famous dad shoes. – ETX brands like ASOS and H&M are
shorts -- are summer fashion must- Studio offering dozens (and dozens) of
haves for men, jean shorts hadn’t denim shorts options -- including
yet managed to break through. But Jort alert: Gucci, Saint Laurent, Bermuda shorts -- as is denim
that now seems to be merely a Levi’s and more specialist Levi’s. Luxury fashion
matter of time given the multitude houses, however, already seem to
of models being offered -- and As we seem to have been saying have taken jorts to the next level,
actively showcased -- by retail all too often lately, the uncool is showcasing much shorter models
brands, as well as luxury fashion back in force! From Crocs and clogs and no doubt embracing nostalgia
houses, for the spring-summer 2021 to sweatsuits, sleeveless puffer vests head-on. Just take a look at the e-
season. In fact, denim shorts could and fleeces... the list is long -- and stores of some of the most popular
be all the rage in your vacation cruel -- but very real. These last few names, like Gucci and Saint Laurent
destination this year. Don’t say you months, brands have had a field day (among others), and you’ll soon see
haven’t been warned. serving up variations -- in turns chic, that jean shorts also come in XXS
extravagant or even totally crazy -- versions, rocking a more co-ed vibe.
These jean shorts of which we of pieces that no one could have
speak -- sometimes known as ‘jorts’ - imagined wearing less than two Rest assured, however, that
- are mostly cut just above, or years ago. And while we can’t lay denim shorts are available in a wide
sometimes below the knee, in the blame entirely on the pandemic, and numerous range of styles and
relatively long styles. They are it has to be said that this period did versions, making jorts a perfect
usually matched with sneakers, at serve to restore the reputation of piece to adapt to all styles. Whether
best, or a pair of flip-flops, or even everything associated with comfort, baggy or slim, short or long, with or
cowboy boots (yes, really!), and a T- whether closely or remotely. And without hems, with or without
shirt or a tank top (with an American denim shorts are a perfect example holes, with frayed ends or an
flag, of course). All in all, it’s the kind of this. impeccable finish, there’s a pair of
of look that fits seamlessly into jorts out there for everyone to rock
what’s now known as “dad style,“ It’s therefore not so surprising to on this year’s vacation -- and only on
which has already brought its share see this casual piece come along at vacation, please! – ETX Studio
a time when lockdowns are easing
and the eagerly awaited vacation

TECH

6 theSun LYFE ON WEDNESDAY | JULY 28, 2021

WITH perfect posts, The battle for likes their Instagram income. On average,
magnificent wardrobes these influencers earn US$5,912.8 per
and gifts galore on o How much do Instagram month from their account.
Instagram, the daily influencers really make?
lives of influencers are filled with the With the Covid-19 pandemic, 47%
stuff of dreams. Yet, behind this only 22.99% report making money, The average influencer makes US$31 per hour, of influencers surveyed say they
outward success, how much money compared to 68.75% of accounts with but a beauty specialist will earn double that, earned more money. However, the
are they really making? HypeAuditor 500K to one million followers. with US$60 per hour, according to HypeAuditor. pandemic has also had downsides,
conducted a survey of 1,865 with 49.68% of influencers surveyed
Instagram influencers, asking them Differences were also seen in reporting seeing more fraudulent
about their income, their workload relation to the influencers’ fields of activity.
and time invested, as well as their expertise. The average influencer
main sources of income. Of them, makes US$31 per hour, but a In order to grow income via
45.74% were women and 28% were beauty specialist will earn Instagram, the study showed that
age 25-34. double that, with US$60 per
Average monthly income nears hour, a record across brand promotion remains the
US$3,000 categories (in relation to the most important source of
The first key takeaway from time spent on maintaining the revenue among influencers, at
HypeAuditor’s report is that half of account). Some superstars can 40.15%. Meanwhile, 14.92% of
the influencers surveyed (48.5%) say reap as much as US$187 per influencers promote affiliate
they make money from their hour. Overall, the categories programs using their accounts.
Instagram account. On average, an making influencers the most Over on TikTok, influencers
influencer earns US$2,970 per money are animals, business and will soon be able to make
month. However, there are significant marketing, and fitness and sport. money by creating custom
differences in income among Less than 5% live on their content like shoutouts.
accounts, depending on the number Instagram income Finally, influencers spend
of followers. Micro-influencers Nevertheless, only 4.27% of an average 24 hours per
(between 1,000 and 10,000 followers) respondents say they live solely on week managing their
make an average US$1,420 per accounts (posts, creating
month. Mega-influencers (more than Stories, chatting with
one million followers) make followers, etc.) This
US$15,356 per month. average rises to 28.7
hours per week for
Still, among holders of accounts Instagrammers who
with between 1K and 10K followers, make money from their
accounts and drops to 20.9
hours for those who do not.
– ETX Studio

You’ll soon be able to tip your favourite Enhance productivity
YouTubers
YouTube SAMSUNG Malaysia Electronics The currently available Galaxy
says that has launched the Galaxy Enterprise Edition in Malaysia
Super Enterprise Edition in Malaysia, a includes the Galaxy XCover 5, a
TIPS aren’t just for waiters, it seems. Thanks lets comprehensive package of rugged yet sophisticated device
Now, even YouTubers can earn fans business-ready mobile device designed to handle demanding
spending money from their followers. support and services designed to give jobs while meeting the needs of
This new option is currently being their organisations more continuity, an increasingly mobile workforce.
tested on YouTube, and could roll out favourite control and protection. The new Engineered for the field and
on a larger scale at a later date. channels, Enterprise Edition will help them factory, the Galaxy XCover 5
while giving modernise their business for the combines durability with comfort
With amounts of US$2, US$5, creators digital age with an industry- for a product that is sleek and
US$10 or US$50, certain YouTube access to a leading offering that includes easy-to-hold, yet rugged enough
users can already try the platform’s new source customisable hardware, easy-to- to withstand tough work
new tool, offering a way of sending manage software and end-to-end environments. It’s built to power
money to creators in the form of tips. security. today’s mobile business with
This new feature, called Super of revenue. improved touch sensitivity for use
Thanks, is currently being trialed, and with gloves, and comes with an
has been deployed in beta version to
certain users in 68 countries, only on easy-to-charge,
the web version and iOS and Android businesses and diversify their the official YouTube announcement replaceable battery for
applications of the platform. revenue. In fact, we offer a multitude of the feature. all day productivity.
Under each video, users will have of ways that creators can make While no official launch date has
the option to buy Super Thanks, money on our platform – from been given, YouTube states that the With many businesses
giving rise to a virtual animation running ads and selling merchandise Super Thanks feature will be managing large, disparate
onscreen, as well as posting a to channel memberships and available to all eligible creators in the workforces or teams
comment with their name and the beyond. We’ve recently been YouTube Partner Programme before working from home and out
amount of the transaction made. experimenting with an applause the end of the year. in the field, the new Galaxy
Creators will be able to reply to these feature that allows fans to show Twitter has already announced a Enterprise Edition makes it
comments in the same way as with support for their favourite YouTube similar option with Tip Jar, which lets easier to configure, update,
regular comments. channels. Based on creator feedback, users give money to others, and, deploy and run mobile
“Creators are at the heart of what today we’re super excited to share since its launch, TikTok has technology across
we do here at YouTube, and we’re that it’s expanding to even more integrated a function for gifting organisations at scale, ensuring
constantly exploring new ways to viewers and creators – along with a money to creators during their employees are always
help them get started, grow their new name: Super Thanks,” explains livestreams. – ETX Studio connected and can get the job
done on the go, securely.

POSTGRAD

The key to success is to first start somewhere.

PUBLICATION DATE 30 AUGUST, 2021 (Monday)

Speak to theSun’s Sales team now for special deals on BOOKING & STORY DEADLINE 16 AUGUST, 2021 (Monday)
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FEATURE 7

theSun LYFE ON WEDNESDAY | JULY 28, 2021

█ BY ANANSA JACOB reTahdaitng magic

WHILE seeking new ways to o The Sleepy Cat Bookshop is one of many
entertain themselves during independent online booksellers spreading joy to
the various lockdowns over bookworms while they stay at home
the past year, many people
rediscovered the reading habit, with book inventory, so I began buying used books MCO or EMCO, sourcing for secondhand
sales reaching new heights last year. from individuals, charity organisations books also becomes quite a challenge in
and bookstores that offer clearance items. itself. The limited movement from one
This phenomenon has been a boon for place to another means I can’t go out as
the rapidly growing market of independent “I would also be at book sales, taking often as I need to replenish my stock and I
online booksellers. Many of them have advantage of the lower prices and huge can’t inspect the condition of the books
made a home on Instagram, fuelled by inventory. Occasionally, I would receive physically like I usually do. On top of that, I
bookstagrammers and book-lovers book donations from private donors and have to get the books shipped to my home
searching for the next right read. friends who were decluttering their by delivery service, which in turn adds to
homes. the cost per book.”
One of these sellers is The Sleepy Cat
Bookshop, which is run by 40-year-old “Generally, the books that I offer are What trends have you noticed in the Noreen with dealing with negative emotions and daily
Wan Noreen Wan Ahmad, a full-time curated based on my personal preferences, books that people look for? some of the stresses, and I wish to maintain this habit right
housewife and mother-of-five who began bookstagram recommendations and the “I noticed that there is a significant interest books she into my old age.”
selling books as a side business in late wishlists of my followers and customers. in light-hearted escapism among readers, has for sale. – Do you think physical books still have a
2016. Another important criteria is of course the which I think is driven by the desire to PICTURE place in today’s world?
physical condition of the books. It takes a escape our grim reality, and deal with COURTESY “Absolutely! With physical books, you get a
In an email interview with theSun, lot of time and effort to sift through used loneliness and grief. Local OF WAN multisensory experience compared to e-
Noreen explained: “Previously, I worked as books to find the ones that are fit for sale.” bookstagrammers seem to gravitate NOREEN books. You can actually feel the crisp pages as
a Biology lecturer, an editor at a publishing What challenges have you faced as an towards fantasy reads filled with magic and WAN you turn them, breathe in the wonderful smell
company and a sub-editor at a weekly independent online bookseller? drama, contemporary rom-coms, edgy AHMAD of old paper and ink, and sense the weight of
magazine. After several years of juggling “My business is basically a one-woman and smart thrillers as well as inspirational . your reading progress as the number of pages
work and childcare, I finally decided to show and I do everything myself – from and spiritual non-fiction titles.” Noreen with you read adds up.
become a full-time housewife. While at sourcing the books, taking photos, editing The Sleepy
home, I did freelance editing work and and uploading them on Instagram, to Why do you feel it is Cat Bookshop “Unlike e-books, there’s also no glaring
dabbled in a few translation projects packing the books and sending them off. important to mascots, backlight that messes with your eyesight or
before venturing into bookselling.” Staying up late and waking up early to get maintain a reading Hakuna links to distract you from your reading. E-
the tasks done are just part of the job. habit? (centre) and books are designed with convenience, speed
A self-described bookworm, Noreen “Maintaining a Boba. – and mobility in mind, but physical books are
has loved reading ever since she was a Honestly, I have less time to read now reading habit has PICTURE made for deep reading, slow processing and
child, and once she decided to venture into that I’m selling books! never been more COURTESY patience.
bookselling full-time, she soon discovered important than OF WAN
a community of loyal readers and book “Nowadays, right now. It’s a NOREEN “And there’s no denying that you’ll feel a
enthusiasts who have helped her grow her with so many healthy coping WAN genuine sense of ownership and emotional
business into what it is today. locations placed AHMAD connection that comes from seeing
beautifully shelved physical books.”
The Sleepy Cat Bookshop’s mascots are under What plans do you have for the future of The
her two cats, Boba and Hakuna, who often Sleepy Cat Bookshop?
delight her followers with their antics, mechanism for “In the current situation, it’s hard to plan for
which she shares on Instagram, along with people who are what’s coming next but I hope to keep running
her selection of books for sale. affected by the The Sleepy Cat Bookshop for many more
pandemic and also years to come. Currently, I’m looking at the
Where do you usually for individuals latest and most efficient methods to respond
source your books facing mental to my customers’ queries and facilitate the
from? health issues. buying process.
“Initially, I sold my own
collection of books “I’m not planning to open up a physical
which I no longer shop in the nearest future due to resource and
had space for. As time limitations, but that may also change. I
my business hope as my business grows, I can keep giving
grew, I had to the local book community and make a
to keep difference to them.”
topping
up the
books
in my

The simple act
of reading can
help to relax
your body, calm
your nerves and
quiet your mind
from negative
self-talk. I myself
find it to be very
helpful when

How ‘accentism’ prevails in the UK publishing industry
REGIONAL accents can prove a class.
professional hindrance for some people A British “People assume a lot about you from
in the UK, especially in the publishing report reveals
industry, it seems. A new study that some your accent. It’s very interesting which
highlights the discrimination faced by publishing discussions you are assumed not to be part
some professionals because of the way industry of,” said one respondent. One individual
they speak. professionals interviewed by Spare Room Project said
feel hindered that their colleagues wouldn’t discuss
Some find them charming, while by their second homes, private schools or
others deride them. Either way, accents accents. vacations outside Europe with them. The
can often be a hindrance in the co-workers assumed that their counterpart
publishing industry, according to a Discrimination and class prejudice reflect class prejudices. Indeed, more couldn’t afford those things, because of
report from Spare Room Project. The From teasing to mockery to imitation, than 36% of respondents believe that their accent.
organisation surveyed more than 350 reactions to regional accents can also accent defines an individual’s social
industry professionals about the For James Spackman, “accentism” – or
prejudices they face because of their discrimination based on accent or
regional accents. language use – contributes to the lack of
diversity in the UK publishing industry.
It turns out that the majority (56.8%)
feel the need to alter their accent to “We’re all prey to unconscious bias, so
better integrate or to be taken more it’s incredibly important that we chase
seriously – a tiring but necessary down every factor that could be holding
intellectual exercise. Almost two thirds the industry back by limiting – even subtly
of respondents (67.2%) say that their –talented people’s progression,” said the
colleagues behave differently with them Spare Room Project founder.
because of the way they speak. “I’ve had
my accent mimicked in meetings by “Every time we make a joke or a lazy
colleagues who don’t realise that might assumption about a colleague based on
offend,” recalls one of the study their accent, we’re subtly pushing them out
participants. of the way, at the cost of excellence.” – ETX
Studio

FEATURE

8 theSun LYFE ON WEDNESDAY | JULY 28, 2021

Art from the heart
█ BY ANANSA JACOB o Amateur artist Lee Sin Hui turns her
passion for art into an income source
WHEN Lee Sin Hui decided to
rekindle her love of art, she (something with) my creation. But I never Right: A sample
never imagined it would really thought it would ever come true.” of Lee’s
lead to a successful online Since then, Lee has produced signature tote
business. specially-commissioned art on tote bags, bag artworks.
mobile phone cases, T-shirts, shoes and Bottom right: A
Speaking to theSun by phone, the 20- mirrors, among other items. Thanks to commissioned
year-old Kuching-based university the support of her friends, followers and drawstring bag
student revealed how things began for word-of-mouth, she has managed to featuring two
her. build a successful small-scale online dogs.
business. Bottom left:
“Both my parents are engineers, so I “At the same time, there were Drawing
don’t really know where I got my (love of Instagram platforms that highlighted pictures of her
art) from,” she said. small businesses, and that also really customers’ pets
helped to promote my is particularly
“But my younger sister and I have a business,” she said. enjoyable for
talent for drawing.” It takes her Lee.
anywhere from a Left: Lee with
Lee attended drawing classes at age 10 few hours to a one of her date.” And there are others who don’t
and enjoyed the experience very much, few days to many Her year-long experience has given appreciate my work, or who treat me like
but decided to stop after a few years to finish a commissioned a ‘working slave.’”
focus on her exams. commission. artworks. – her plenty of insight into the joys and
PICTURES challenges of running a business. One of But Lee tries to take these situations as
Last March, she was set to attend “Sometimes, if COURTESY OF the biggest issues has been getting an opportunity to learn, and to improve
university in Kuala Lumpur to study it’s a bigger THE.ART.BY.LEE supplies on time. herself.
global supply chain management, but project, it can
had to defer that due to the movement take up to a “Up to now, I still face issues with Her favourite commissions are those
control order. month,” Lee said. supplies that are stuck at the warehouse for pets, particularly dogs and cats. She
for a very long time. admits that her least favourite projects
So, she decided to take up drawing “But I always are human portraits, as people can get
again, creating an Instagram account try to finish “But there are other issues as well. The very fussy about them.
(@the.art.by.lee) to share her Instagram algorithm makes it hard for
artwork. She currently balances her an order new people to reach my page, so I used to “I try not to accept commissions for
time between drawing and her before the be very affected by the number of portraits if people cannot accept the
studies, which she began in August due followers and likes I got. But I reminded terms and conditions I set for them.”
last year. myself that the number of followers or
likes doesn’t determine the loyalty of the Asked if she had any advice for others
“I think my art skills have (gotten customers that I have.” looking to start their own online business,
better) since I started my account,” she she said: “It’s okay to start small. Like,
said. She has also dealt with customers who when you create your (Instagram)
would ask for discounts instead of account, you start with a few followers
“Because I had stopped (drawing) negotiating for something to suit their and then you build from there.
for so long, I didn’t think my budget.
skills were good. But since “And don’t ever undervalue your
then, I have really improved.” “I try to make them understand (not to work. It’s okay to set a price that you
do that) because everything is hand- deserve, rather than underpricing your
She was also able to drawn,” she said. work in order to hit the budget of your
complete a long customers. If they are willing to pay the
postponed art project. “And some people keep wanting to amount that you fix, that indicates the
make corrections and amendments, but value of your work.”
“A few years back, I are not willing to pay for the extra effort.
bought a plain tote bag
from Taobao, and I
always wanted to draw
on it because I wanted
something unique
and personalised.

“But that was also
my SPM year, so I did
not have time to
draw, and also I was
afraid that I would get it
wrong. But after starting
my account, that became
the first bag that I drew on,
and when I posted it on
Instagram, I got some good
feedback from my friends.”

Her friends indicated that they
would be interested in purchasing
items with her drawings on them,
and two months after starting her
account, Lee decided to begin
accepting commissions for her art.

“I (always) had a dream that
people out there would be using

CAREERS

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9theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | JULY 28, 2021
SPEAK UP

COMMENT by Aiza Azreen Ahmad

Protecting SME from cyber attacks
THE Malaysia Digital Economy
Blueprint specifically sets out pre-pandemic. SME contribute a cyber attacks will multiply with Last year, 14,229 cyber crimes were reported, with total losses of RM413 million.
to map the importance of large percentage to our overall gross higher business impact.
cybersecurity, listing it under domestic product (GDP), 38.9% in the threat of cyberattacks evolve. must we be vigilant but also have the
one of the six main thrusts of the 2019, while the digital economy “SME will be the biggest target due The rapid growth of ICT and corresponding counter-measure in
blueprint; to build trusted, secure and contributed 19.1% in the same to its lack of resources and expertise place. To learn more of the Matrix
ethical digital environment. period. Thus, it is imperative that we to manage cybersecurity operations. technology bring with it a Cybersecurity for SME, visit:
Cybersecurity sets the foundation ensure the appropriate safeguards Matrix can manage those challenges tremendous opportunity for http://mdec.my/matrix.
from which businesses and are in place. and it will be a sustainable approach.” Malaysia’s cybersecurity industry.
enterprises can operate and grow in a International Data Corporation MDEC will also be kicking off its
safe and secure digital environment. Cybersecurity adoption for SME A robust cybersecurity system will reported that cybersecurity spending second edition of the highly-
and as a whole is no longer an option integrate the virtual and physical for Malaysia reached RM2.6 billion anticipated and successful Malaysia
New working arrangement in the but a necessity. To put it in numbers: spaces securely, resulting in a (US$627 million) in 2019, and is Tech Month (MTM) on July 29. MTM
new norm, i.e. working from home, 0 84% of SME in Malaysia have been balanced economic advancement expected to exceed the RM4 billion is a month-long curation of
also contributed to a surge in cyber which resonates with Malaysia’s 5.0 (US$1 billion) mark by 2024. For the electrifying digital and technology
attacks. Most small and medium compromised by cyber threat vision to be a nation that is deeply next five years, it is expected to keynotes, workshops, discussion
enterprises (SME) utilise a “Bring incidents. integrated with technology, remain robust and will see steady panels and business-matching
Your Own Device” approach, which 0 76% SME have suffered more than providing equitable digital growth at a rate of 12.5% (CAGR). sessions. It will feature distinguished
significantly exposes valuable data one attack. opportunities to the people and group of local and international
and information to cyber attacks, and Cognisant of this situation, the businesses. It is also in line with As cybersecurity is a domain that industry speakers and investors to
various malicious forms of intrusion. Malaysia Digital Economy Malaysia’s National Cybersecurity is continuously evolving and share their expert thoughts and
SME bear the brunt of these attacks. Corporation (MDEC), the nation’s Strategy. improving, with new technologies, experiences in 4IR-driven digital
lead agency in digital transformation, processes and methods, it will economy. The MDEC Digital
In 2020, Malaysia recorded 6,512 in collaboration with the National The Matrix programme will also continue to expand the in-flow of Adoption Ecosystems division will be
cybersecurity incidents. In the period Cyber Security Agency (NACSA) and accelerate the journey of digital investments and accelerate the curating a week-long series of events
between January and May, the SME Corporation Malaysia have set transformation and enhance the growth of Malaysia’s cybersecurity at MTM.
number of incidents recorded stood out to develop and implement Matrix cybersecurity experience through ecosystem. At present, the local
at 4,615, representing an almost one- Cybersecurity for SME (Matrix). two key value propositions: cybersecurity industry partners that To participate, visit
fold increase in threats and incidents The programme, launched on 0 Simple – Easy to adopt and cost- have joined the Matrix programme https://mdec.my/mtm2021
comparatively. June 28 by Deputy Prime Minister, include TIME dotcom Berhad,
Senior Minister for Security and effective with minimum NetAssist (M) Sdn Bhd, PERNEC Aiza Azreen Ahmad is Chief Digital
Cyber crimes have also shown an Minister of Defence Datuk Seri Ismail supervision. Technologies Sdn Bhd, DNSVault Business Officer of Malaysia Digital
upward trend. According to police Sabri Yaakob during the Cyber 0 Smarter – Visibility by staying Sdn Bhd, Securemetric Technology
statistics, the number of cyber crimes Defence & Security Exhibition and ahead of threats and scalable with Sdn Bhd and Tecforte Sdn Bhd. Economy Corporation (MDEC).
reported in 2019 were 11,875 cases, Conference, aims to boost business. Comments:
with RM498 million in terms of cybersecurity adoption and The Matrix programme has also With so much at stake, not only
losses. Last year, the number of cases implementation among SME from all taken into consideration the [email protected]
increased to 14,229, with total losses sectors in Malaysia. challenges faced by SME in adopting
of RM413 million. In the first quarter Matrix is a first-of-its-kind in cybersecurity measures i.e. lack of
of this year, the number of cases Malaysia and the region as it is funds and resources, limited access
reported was 4,327 and the losses designed to facilitate the acceleration to expertise and tools, and the
involved were RM77 million. of SME cybersecurity adoption. This complexity of deployment and
programme is customised and operation. It sets out to assist SME
As the world grapples with the designed to fit with the DNA of SME. end to end, identifying the potential
effects of the pandemic, malicious NACSA - the national lead agency gaps in cybersecurity, the priorities
attacks and serious data breaches are for cybersecurity - chief executive Ir and offering a cost-effective measure.
also increasing at an alarming rate, Md Shah Nuri Md Zain said: “The The programme utilises a three-
compounding the situation and Matrix programme is established to pronged strategy to mitigate and
putting into sharp focus the criticality address current cybersecurity prevent instances of cyberattacks.
of having a robust cybersecurity challenges faced by SME. First, it provides a 24-hour
system in place. “Matrix will support one of its five cybersecurity surveillance to
strategic pillars and protect SME discover and flag attacks to business
According to Deloitte, unseen businesses, which is the foundation operations. Secondly, it will provide
(previously undocumented) malware of the national economy and future critical asset protection, deploying
or methods employed by hackers and economy. As digital economy grows, the measures against attacks on
cyber attackers have risen 30% during servers. And thirdly, it continuously
the pandemic as opposed to 20% assesses the vulnerability and gaps as

LETTERS [email protected]

Pandemic, political posturing and pandemonium

WHEN the Emergency was first been anxiously waiting for this moment was drowned out by justified. To say it plainly, the future ratings). Thanks to the
proclaimed, I had a sense of dread current Parliament session after deafening shouts and name-calling. government could have done better. Emergency, we managed to
and confusion. I was confused on months of Darurat. We all needed to Yet, given the largely dysfunctional “immunise” all these efforts against
how the Emergency would be make sense of when this alarming Where was the respect for our Dewan Rakyat on Monday, I cannot irresponsible politicians’ sabotage in
expedient for coping with Covid-19, a crisis will end and I had so many nation’s Covid-19 victims? help but think that the Emergency the last two quarters.
crisis that seemed to be weighted questions in mind. was needed for the country.
towards the need for aid and health The situation resembled a A ratings’ downgrade would have
measures rather than the I had hoped this Parliament classroom of delinquents rather than I wonder how much worse it could adversely impacted our already
proclamation of Darurat. session would provide more clarity a noble hall of democratically- have been – had every decision and battered economy.
and perhaps shine some light on the elected representatives. Is this the measure in the last seven months
The suspension of Parliament – nation’s way forward. Yet, no sooner hallmark of Malaysia’s democracy? were to undergo this same chaotic Recently, the government invited
the movement control order had the session started, I started Parliament scrutiny. This was, after members from the Opposition
notwithstanding – contributed to the feeling a sense of dismay, and as the The saving grace was perhaps all, the same Opposition that last year parties to join the National Recovery
sense of dread that grew in tandem hours of non-stop shouting, heckling, when our Finance Minister Tengku sought to block the passing of the Council that oversees the recovery
with the worsening pandemic. jeering and taunting passed, those Zafrul took the floor later in the national Budget, which would have plan. For us rakyat, this is a glimmer
feelings turned into utter disgust. afternoon – the temperature was paralysed all government machinery of hope that MPs from both sides can
This week, seven months after the noticeably lowered, perhaps due to in, among others, disbursing aid to cooperate to steer this nation out of
Emergency was first proclaimed, we While I had hitherto been the fact he is a technocrat rather than the needy. this pandemic.
finally had the first meeting of the impartial, this time around, I had a politician. Finally, there seemed to
Parliament. As a rakyat, I had high more issues with the Opposition than be some real questions, for example What else would we have lost had Despite the appalling lack of
hopes for this special session. with the government MPs. Their the Sabah representatives who asked it not been for the Emergency; or if respect and decorum at Parliament
opposing voices could have yielded about the lower rate of vaccination in instability had forced us into an this week, I hope the Opposition MPs
It is an understatement to say that more constructive ideas and the “Land beneath the wind” (it was impasse on crucial life-and-death are gracious enough to accept this
many Malaysians have been living solutions in solving Covid-19, as due to lower MySejahtera decisions such as vaccine olive branch and set aside their
under difficult times. While we were opposed to constant nit-picking on registration, apparently). procurement and utilisation of differences to fight our common
reasonably successful in containing procedural matters. private hospitals? enemy, Covid-19.
the virus last year, this year, it seems There was even a light moment
every other person we know had It was another typical mess of when Tengku Zafrul, at the slip of the At the very least, with the Just for once, instead of dishing
either been infected, succumbed to screaming MPs, with the Opposition tongue mentioned “Lembah Pantai”, Emergency the country has benefited out yet more pandemonium in
the virus or survived Covid-19. This wasting precious hours with political when he meant “Lembah Klang”, from four more swiftly-introduced Parliament, can politicians stand
has also become personal to me, as tirades. The nation could not listen to inviting teasing remarks from both financial aid packages; boosted our unified on the pandemic? The
my family lost two elderly relatives to the prime minister’s speech sides on whether the senator was national vaccination and even country has suffered enough. As a
Covid-19. Even so, we may be luckier uninterrupted and to my shock, even setting his sights on contesting at the managed to retain our sovereign rakyat, we deserve a better show of
than others, who may have lost not when he called for a moment of constituency. Despite my previous ratings by global credit ratings leadership and statesmanship from
only their loved ones but also their silence for fellow Muslim MPs to misgivings about the Emergency agencies (Fitch, Moody’s and S&P – our politicians.
way of life. recite a holy verse in remembrance of proclamation, I switched off my although all three clearly warned that
Covid-19 victims, that solemn screen feeling disheartened and now political instability could downgrade YF Wong
I am sure many Malaysians had thinking that Darurat was perhaps Setapak

S E C U R I T I E S S D N. B H D. SunBIZ WEDNESDAY
JULY 28, 2021
197201001092 (12738-U)
Editorial Tel: 03-7784 6688
A Participating Organisation of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad Fax: 03-7785 2624/5

A Trading Participant of Bursa Malaysia Derivatives Berhad Email: [email protected]
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27/07/2021 Fax: 03-7784 4424

Participation Bought Sold Net Email: [email protected]

% RM m RM m RM m

41.4 Institutions 1103.9 1108.7 -4.8

39.2 Retail 1076.1 1019.6 56.5

19.4 Foreign 491.6 543.3 -51.7 0.16 1,105.89 86.26 133.69
STI HANG SENG SCI TSEC
100.0 2671.6 2671.6 0.0 2.07 3,138.81 25,086.43 136.93 7.58 37.10
KLCI 3,381.18 NIKKEI 17,269.87 KOSPI S&P/ASX200
Preliminary stats (excluding trade amendments). For final data, please refer to www.bursamalaysia.com 1,514.60 27,970.22 3,232.53
Source: Bursa Malaysia 7,431.36

KL MARKET SUMMARY Medac proposes enhanced SOPs to
July 27, 2021 speed up reopening of MSME sector

INDICES 11,099.30 CHANGE +5.03
FBMEMAS
FBMKLCI 1,514.60 +2.07 PETALING JAYA: The Entrepreneur between the ministry and members of the Among the procedures recommended
CONSUMER PRODUCTS 589.68 +0.52 Development and Cooperatives Ministry industry where they too, have given input,” are vaccine completion by business owners
INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTS 188.44 -0.57 (Medac) has proposed enhanced standard said Wan Junaidi in a statement yesterday. and workers, weekly swab test, as well as
CONSTRUCTION 163.22 +0.03 operating procedures (SOPs) to the the immediate premise closure and
FINANCIAL SERVICES 14,764.80 +11.61 government to expedite the reopening of The proposal focuses on six economic sanitisation upon detection of Covid-19
ENERGY 754.15 -2.80 the MSME sector, particularly those in the activities under the FCLO categories: food cases.
TELECOMMUNICATIONS 688.76 -1.39 first-to-close, last-to-open (FCLO) category. and beverages dine-in, shopping malls,
HEALTH CARE 2,826.22 -31.84 watch shops, pedicure and manicure The minister reiterated that Malaysia’s
TRANSPORTATION 845.75 +0.97 Minister Datuk Seri Dr Wan Junaidi (grooming services), beauty parlour/salon MSME sector, which accounts for almost
PROPERTY 698.87 -1.48 Tuanku Jaafar stated that the ministry fully and barber/hair salon. 40% of the country’s GDP, is on the brink of
PLANTATION 6,199.45 +10.17 supports the opening of more economic collapse if the current lockdown continues
FBMSHA 12,211.30 -5.54 activities and the need for clear SOPs in Almost half of the business activities indefinitely.
FBMACE 7,251.24 -72.26 place for businesses to operate in a safe and identified are owned by women – among
TECHNOLOGY 88.61 -0.45 controlled manner. the groups most affected by the nationwide A survey conducted by Medac found an
lockdown. estimated 580,000 businesses accounting
TURNOVER VALUE Based on discussion with the industry, for 49% of the MSME sector are at risk of
4.376 BIL RM2.671 BIL he relayed that many are willing to operate In regard to the proposal, the SOP failure, if they are not allowed to resume
under stricter SOPs and will give their full recommendations entail a comprehensive operations by then. If such a business
5 MOST ACTIVES cooperation to the authorities. set of guidelines which includes staff and closure were to take place, more than seven
July 27, 2021 customer management, operating hours million Malaysians are expected to be
“The enhanced SOPs prepared by and premises maintenance to comply with unemployed.
Medac is actually a collaborative effort Covid-19 safety requirements.

STOCK VOL CLSG (sen) +/– (sen) DNeX launches SealNet
BCMALL-OR 298,032,900 1.0 -11.5 to facilitate trade, logistics
KANGER 140,791,300 7.5 UNCH
SERBADK 107,346,000 44.0 UNCH
BCMALL 85,613,200 16.0 -1.0
SERSOL-WA 82,690,900 31.0 +10.5

5 TOP GAINERS He said the growth opportunity of digital digitalisation but their internal systems at
July 27, 2021 trade and logistics segment is huge as the the moment may act in silos.
total trade traffic coming in and out of
STOCK VOL CLSG (RM) +/– RM o Digital platform aims to Malaysia registered a 35% year-on-year “This is one of the pain points in the
GENETEC 1,477,500 20.40 1.68 become market leader in growth in May, according to data on DNeX’s industry that we need to address as this can
NESTLE 133.80 0.80 both segments, group eyes trade facilitation platform. lead to stagnant efficiency and unnecessary
HSI-HGX 37,600 2.21 0.77 revenue growth of 300% costs,” he said.
HSI-HGS 60,000 1.63 0.67 He added that the trade volume (in and
HSI-HG3 37,700 1.26 0.555 █ BY JUNE MOH out of Malaysia) has grown 25% in the first He said SealNet is intelligently built to
145,000 [email protected] five months this year compared to the same connect and digitalise components across
PETALING JAYA: Dagang NeXchange Bhd’s period last year. global supply chain and logistics to enhance
5 TOP LOSERS (DNeX) newly launched digital trade and efficiency of transport and trade facilitation
July 27, 2021 logistics platform SealNet is expected to “In cross-border trade and logistics, mechanisms, to improve productivity of
boost its revenue by 300% driven by trade digitalisation is definitely changing how we trader and logistics industry, and to provide a
STOCK VOL CLSG (RM) +/– RM facilitation for the private sector in the operate. It has led to the emergence of better electronic system for logistics and
HSTECH-CB 532,000 0.235 0.665 financial year ending June 30, 2022, Logistics 4.0 or smart logistics – a new trend cross-border trade.
CHINAETF-MYR 177,600 6.79 0.55 according to DNeX group managing director that is expected to reshape the industry to a
HSTECH-CA 443,100 0.09 0.52 Tan Sri Syed Zainal Abidin Syed Mohamed great degree. Meanwhile, commenting on DNeX’s
F&N 108,900 25.50 0.50 Tahir. acquisition of a 60% stake in SilTerra Malaysia
BIG 19,747,300 1.25 0.39 “Smart logistics involve the applications of from Khazanah Nasional Bhd, he said the
He said SealNet aims to be the market new technologies such as artificial group has lots of plans in the pipelines to turn
EXCHANGE RATES JULY 27, 2021 leader in digital trade and logistics segment intelligence, robotic process automation, around SilTerra to make it profitable.
and the group would acquire existing radio frequency identification (RFID) and
Foreign currency Bank sell Bank buy Bank buy startups if the acquisition creates value to blockchain. These new technologies are “We will fine-tune the product mix of
the group. expected to lead to faster and more flexible Silterra. It has many products and customers
1 US DOLLAR TT/OD TT OD shipments with more transparency at a lower at different selling prices. We are bringing our
1 AUSTRALIAN DOLLAR 4.2890 4.1640 4.1540 “We aspire to be the trade partner of subject matter experts to improve its product
1 BRUNEI DOLLAR 3.1830 3.0580 3.0420 choice to all businesses comprising price,” he said. portfolio. We will enhance the product mix
1 CANADIAN DOLLAR 3.1590 3.0660 3.0580 micro enterprises to multinational He said traders and logistic with better products and selling price to
1 EURO 3.4170 3.3260 3.3140 companies. Customers want companies are aware of improve the margin and revenue of the
1 NEWZEALAND DOLLAR 5.0720 4.9090 4.8890 diversified services, for example, the importance of company.
1 SINGAPORE DOLLAR 3.0140 2.9040 2.8880 marine insurance, warehouses, SealNet is built to
1 STERLING POUND 3.1590 3.0660 3.0580 trade facilities. We collaborate connect and “The stability of customer base is
1 SWISS FRANC 5.9380 5.7520 5.7320 with business partners to provide digitalise important in a manufacturing company. We
100 UAE DIRHAM 4.6740 4.5650 4.5500 end-to-end integration so that it components have secured several long-term partners (for
100 BANGLADESHTAKA 118.1600 112.0600 111.8600 can serve customers better,” he across global SilTerra) which will double the (profit)
100 CHINESE RENMINBI 5.1430 4.8290 4.6290 told a virtual press supply chain to margin of some products and we will make
100 HONGKONG DOLLAR 66.2000 63.6000 conference after the enhance an announcement soon. This is one of the
100 INDIAN RUPEE 55.7500 52.9800 N/A launch of SealNet efficiency of trade, promises we have made to Khazanah.
100 INDONESIAN RUPIAH 5.8700 5.5100 52.7800 yesterday. improve
100 JAPANESE YEN 0.0306 0.0277 productivity, and “We will pursue to provide chips and
100 NEWTAIWAN DOLLAR 3.8960 3.7750 5.3100 to provide a components to the automotive industry,
100 PAKISTAN RUPEE 16.4000 0.0227 better electronic particularly in building electric vehicles
100 PHILIPPINE PESO 2.7100 N/A 3.7650 system for (EVs),“ he said.
100 QATAR RIYAL 8.6600 2.5300 logistics and cross
100 SAUDI RIYAL 119.1400 8.1600 N/A border trade. On Foxconn, he said the recent
100THAI BAHT 115.6400 113.1000 2.3300 appointment of Dr Bob Wei-Ming Chen to
13.6400 109.7800 7.9600 serve as non-independent non-executive
12.1100 112.9000 director at DNeX would benefit the board of
109.5800 DNeX.
11.7100
“His experience and know-how is relevant
to DNeX in understanding the industry’s
trend and to ensure the group’s plan for
SilTerra remains consistent with market
demands.”

He added that Chen currently serves as
vice-president and head (semiconductor
business group) of Hon Hai Technology
Group, which is also known as Foxconn.

Source: Malayan Banking Berhad/Bernama

SAP 2021: Five major 11theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | JULY 28, 2021
pillars to reboot * SUNBIZ
Selangor economy
Tiger Synergy fundraising
SHAH ALAM: The Selangor Accelerator triggers concerns
Programme 2021 (SAP 2021), a startup
programme funded by the state
government, is focusing on five major
pillars this year to help put the state’s
economy back on track. continuously dilute the value of our
Selangor Executive Councillor for oSubstantial shareholder shares through fundraising
Industry and Trade Datuk Teng Chang Safari Alliance calls for scrutiny exercises while tangible
Khim said SAP, managed by Selangor developments said to be carried out
Information Technology and Digital by the company are nowhere in
Economy Corporation (Sidec), will focus sight,” he said.
on agritech, fintech, greentech, e- PETALING JAYA: Tiger Synergy
commerce, and smart city solutions. Bhd’s board of directors has to Safari Alliance also pointed out
Traditional brick-and-mortar address a string of concerns raised that the group had raised RM84
companies in Selangor have been hit by shareholders before embarking million via new share issues for the
hard by the Covid-19 lockdowns but on yet another round of financial year ended Dec 31, 2019
businesses related to those five pillars fundraising, said its substantial with nothing to show from the
are booming, Teng noted. shareholder, Safari Alliance Sdn exercise except for a RM9.3 million
“E-commerce, fintech and smart city Bhd. loss in fourth-quarter 2019.
solutions are especially relevant with EGM notice null and void. “Before the company can
the current pandemic to ensure that Safari Alliance, which has a “One significant but embark on yet another fundraising “Its 2019 annual report also
businesses continue to run while 10.89% stake in the group, also questionable transaction is where exercise, there should be full and showed a hidden additional loss of
following the standard operating urged institutional and minority around RM39.3 million was frank disclosure as to why this sum RM10.2 million treated as a prior
procedures (SOP),” he said in his speech shareholders to attend the coming advanced to an alleged contractor was not collected.” year ‘error.’ History must not repeat
at the online opening ceremony of SAP virtual EGM to demand for preconstruction costs towards itself!”
2021 yesterday. clarification from the board on a the end of 2019 and recorded as a In addition, Goh urged
Teng said the Selangor government number of recent financial receivable,” Safari Alliance director shareholders to demand On July 14, 2021, Tiger Synergy
will also continue to help small and transactions and developments. Goh Ching Mun said in a statement clarification on the status and proposed a renounceable rights
medium enterprises (SMEs) by initiating yesterday. updates of development projects issue of up to 1.1 billion new shares
the Selangor SME digitalisation matching On July 19, the substantial He pointed out that such payment announced by Tiger Synergy over with up to 1.1 billion free
grant to assist more SMEs to take their shareholder initiated a lawsuit was not within the represented the recent years, and financial detachable warrants on the basis of
first steps to digitalise their businesses. against Tiger Synergy and a number intended use of funds for the transactions made in relation to three rights shares with three free
The initiative is expected to benefit of its board members, asking them fundraising conducted in 2018. these projects. warrants for every four existing
1,000 Selangor SMEs with an initial to disclose and clarify material shares held. This exercise is subject
information as well as to declare the “It makes no sense to to shareholders’ approval at the
EGM.

grant worth RM5 million. SMEs can Kossan Q2 net profit stretches eightfold to RM1.07b
start to apply for the second batch from
Aug 1 to Oct 31. – Bernama

BRIEFS PUC PARTNERS SABAH, PETALING JAYA: Kossan Rubber
PAHANG GOVTS FOR Industries Bhd posted a more than
DIGITAL BANKING BID eightfold increase in net profit to Kossan’s glove division benefited from higher average selling price and higher demand. – KOSSAN WEBSITE PIX
RM1.07 billion for its second
PETALING JAYA: PUC Bhd is leading quarter ended June 30, 2021, from Malaysian Rubber Glove pieces for 2021 against 360 billion glove and clean-room divisions as
a consortium with Sabah and RM131.06 million in the same Manufacturers Association pieces in 2020. well as a stable technical rubber
Pahang state governments as well quarter of the previous year mainly projected annual global demand product division, it is confident that
as a conglomerate for the due to higher average selling price growth of 15-20% moving forward, With Kossan’s strong relationships 2021 will be an exceptional year for
application of a digital bank licence (ASP) and higher demand in the with global demand at 420 billion with its customers coupled with the group.
from Bank Negara Malaysia. PUC glove division. higher demand for its products in the
CEO Cheong Chia Chou said that
with the participation of the two Revenue for the quarter grew
states, it has a sizeable customer over three times to RM2.24 billion
base as Sabah and Pahang from RM701.68 million previously
collectively account for roughly due to the higher revenue from all
20% of Malaysia’s population. three (glove, technical rubber,
Furthermore, he said, the ACE-Market clean-room) divisions.
listed entity has the advantage of
having an existing fintech, For the first half of the financial
marketplace and service solutions. year ended June 30, 2021, its net
profit stood at RM2.11 billion, a
QUARANTINE HOTELS 975.6% increase from RM195.86
CAN JOIN NEXGRAM’S million reported in the same half of
TRACAPM FROM AUG 1 the previous year mainly due to the
higher ASP and higher demand in
PETALING JAYA: Hotels can apply the glove division.
and register as Covid-19 quarantine
venues at the TracAPM QS Partner Revenue for the period stood at
Program from Aug 1, 2021. The RM4.43 billion, a 237.4% increase
TracAPM digital system, also known from RM1.31 billion previously,
as SafeTravelPass Malaysia, is an with increases in all three divisions.
official government system for
Covid-19-related entry-registry and The group declared a second
booking of rooms at designated interim dividend of 12 sen per share
quarantine hotels. The portal is to be paid out on Aug 26, 2021.
owned by Nexgram Holdings Bhd’s
51% subsidiary Tri-G Technologies Kossan said the Covid-19
Sdn Bhd. pandemic has led to a significant
increase in demand for personal
AIRASIA’S KEY ENTITIES protective equipment including
SHOW IMPROVEMENTS protective gloves.

PETALING JAYA: All four key Subsequently, it noted, the
operating entities of AirAsia Group
Bhd posted significant year-on-year Malaysia Airlines taps AI for revenue optimisation via Willingness-to-Pay
(y-o-y) improvements in the second
quarter of 2021, on the back of a low PETALING JAYA: Malaysia Airlines seeking investments in revenue breaking revenue average seat per and understanding customer
base in the corresponding quarter yesterday announced the “go-live” management technology. With a kilometre results achieved in 2019, pricing sensitivity. This is critical as
last year. AirAsia Malaysia’s of Willingness-to-Pay (WTP) team of revenue management the highest since the establishment the region is poised for travel growth
operations remained constrained capabilities as part of its overall practitioners and the latest AI- of the new company. as Covid-19 lockdowns are lifted.
quarter-on-quarter due to a revenue optimisation strategy. powered WTP capabilities,
lockdown and interstate travel Malaysia Airlines now has greater “WTP capabilities, along with “To exceed evolving passenger
restrictions imposed from January With WTP, the airline can control over its fares and offers, our other in-house solutions, ensure demands, airlines must deliver the
2021. Nonetheless, AirAsia Malaysia leverage the power of artificial while leveraging real-time demand that Malaysia Airlines is well- right expected price for every
carried 64% higher number of intelligence (AI) and pricing forecasting and inventory control. positioned for a market rebound, customer, every time. With our go-
passengers y-o-y on 54% higher science at scale to improve its and has the speed and agility to live of WTP capabilities, Malaysia
capacity, subsequently resulting in a demand forecasting and inventory Group CEO Captain Izham push towards the next milestone in Airlines can now deliver a
4 percentage point increase to a management as well as drive Ismail said the path Malaysia our digital transformation journey,” personalised offering for every
healthy load factor of 64%. efficiency across all aspects of its Airlines took in disrupting and he said in a statement yesterday. passenger, tailored to their needs and
revenue optimisation programme. challenging the norms in ultimately giving them more choice
traditional airline revenue WTP capabilities also give the in offers that they book, which is a
Over the past year, Malaysia management is bearing continual airline much greater ability to key differentiator in a highly
Airlines has ramped up its digital results, as proven with its record- estimate future demand based on competitive industry,” Izham said.
transformation journey, including the market competitive landscape

12 theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | JULY 28, 2021
SUNBIZ

Private equity firms to scramble for exit after China tightens tutoring rules

HONG KONG: China’s move to ban companies and block their exits. of Chinese private education firms, sector hit a record high of US$8.1 its business segments and bulk up
private tutoring firms from making a “Every company is going to take a all institutions offering tutoring on billion (RM34 billion) last year as non-academic tutoring, analysts said
profit from teaching core school the school curriculum will be pandemic-induced lockdowns on Monday.
subjects and raising capital is set to hit with large layoffs coming,“ said a registered as non-profit boosted demand for online
trigger a scramble among venture Shanghai-based private equity (PE) organisations, and no new licences education, Refinitiv data shows. That Over 70% of the education sector
and private equity investors to find an investor whose firm invested in a will be granted. is more than half the total deal value fundraising in the first half of 2021
exit after pouring billions of dollars number of online education apps The rules ban these firms from of US$15.5 billion since 2016. went to corporate services,
into the sector. targeting school-aged children. raising money via listings or other extracurricular education and
capital-related activities, and also bar Some PE investors believe their vocational training companies, local
While stricter regulations were Several PE investors bemoaned a listed Chinese companies from portfolio companies could look at research firm EDU INSIGHT data
expected with China looking to ease lack of clarity on how China would investing in such private tutorial transforming their businesses from showed, amid expectations of new
pressure on children and the cost implement the rules, even as some institutions, an official document curriculum-based tutoring to rules.
burden on parents that has said this may not be the end and that shows. Foreign investments too are vocational and extracurricular
contributed to lower birth rates, bulking up on non-academic disallowed in such companies. courses to soften the blow of the new Some PE investors in the tutoring
private equity industry sources say tutoring could help soften the blow Private equity-backed rules. groups said it was unclear how China
they were surprised by the severity of for firms. investments into China’s education will implement the new rules and if
the rules that could kill many China’s US$120 billion private and how investors would exit. –
Under the new rules, which have tutoring sector could seek to separate Reuters
triggered a massive fall in the shares

Global growth to stay strong BRIEFS NESTLE, STARBUCKS
but virus the top risk: Poll EXTEND TIE-UP TO
READY-TO-DRINK COFFEE
o Unemployment widely China, the world’s second biggest
expected to remain above economy, saw its economic growth fall ZURICH: Food giant Nestle and US
pre-Covid levels in coming sharply to 8.1% in the second quarter coffee chain Starbucks are
years as pace of hiring has from a record 18.3% in January-March extending their partnership to
been solid in recent months as new Covid-19 outbreaks dampened launch ready-to-drink coffee
consumer spending. - REUTERSPIX beverages in markets across
Southeast Asia, Oceania and Latin
BENGALURU: Global economic growth prospects current uptrend in global inflation was transitory. economic growth likely slowed sharply to 8.1% in America, the two partners said.
are holding strong for this year and next, despite a But respondents upgraded their 2021 inflation the second quarter from a record 18.3% in Nestle and Starbucks signed a
significant majority of economists in Reuters polls January-March as new Covid-19 outbreaks have global licensing deal in 2018 that
warning new variants of the coronavirus pose the forecasts for 35 of 48 economies polled on and 31 weighed on consumer spending. granted Nestle the perpetual
biggest risk to that outlook. of them for next year. At the same time, there were rights to market Starbucks
29 economies with growth upgrades for this year Economists expected Australia’s resource- packaged coffee and food service
A global survey of nearly 500 economists taken and 26 for next, suggesting some price stickiness. heavy economy to take a hit this quarter from products globally. The initial
this month also concluded recent rising inflation renewed lockdown restrictions and India’s agreement excluded goods sold in
in key economies around the world would be While economists expected the Fed to end its economic rebound was also predicted to lose Starbucks coffee shops and ready-
transitory. bond-buying program by end-2022, with a few momentum. to-drink products. Under the
more analysts now predicting a rate hike as early as extended partnership, Nestle and
The global economy was now forecast to next year, the Bank of Japan and the Bank of Brazil’s economy was forecast to extend its Starbucks will roll out products like
expand a sizzling 6% this year, which would be its England were predicted to keep policy unchanged “jobless recovery” after this year’s inflation surge, Starbucks Frappuccino and
fastest in nearly half a century, followed by a still- through to the end of next year. while prospects for growth in Mexico looked Doubleshot to select markets in
robust 4.5% in 2022. Both were marginal increases brighter. Southeast Asia, Oceania and Latin
from the April poll. The European Central Bank, meanwhile, will America from next year and also
start tapering its pandemic-related asset How labour markets recover or adapt develop new products, the two
Slightly more than half the 48 economies polled purchases sometime after its September meeting effectively once government support schemes partners said. – Reuters
on each quarter were upgraded for both years. and stop buying them by the end of March. lapse will also be key in coming months to both the
growth and inflation outlook. TARGET OF 2% INFLATION
But a surge in the latest variant of the virus, While developed economies have handled the PULLED ECONOMY
which has kept the delayed Tokyo 2020 Olympics pandemic with massive vaccination drives, Jobless rates were broadly expected to remain OUT OF DEFLATION: BOJ
an event without spectators, is a reminder emerging ones are still dealing with shortages of above pre-Covid levels in coming years, including
vaccinations may have improved but the doses. in the United States where the pace of hiring has TOKYO: The Bank of Japan’s 2%
pandemic has not gone away. been very strong in recent months. inflation target has pulled Japan’s
“Vaccination remains the key,“ noted economy out of deflation,
“In recent weeks, financial markets have caught Vishwanath Tirupattur, strategist at Morgan According to Michael Every, global strategist at Governor Haruhiko Kuroda said
up to the idea that the Covid crisis is not entirely Stanley. “Risks remain elevated in countries with Rabobank, “a weak, atomized global labour yesterday, adding that this was
over. The Delta variant adds to the challenge, low vaccine penetration, especially in South and market acts as a huge structural headwind to not a mistaken policy. “As a result
raising the number of cases and the threshold for South East Asia, Africa and other EM economies.” sustained wage inflation, and thus to sustained of the Bank of Japan’s policy of
herd immunity,“ said Ethan Harris, global inflation in general.” – Reuters seeking to achieve its 2% price
economist at Bank of America Securities. In China, the world’s second biggest economy, target, we are no longer in a
deflationary situation,“ Kuroda
Financial markets are on edge ahead of the US said, answering questions after a
Federal Reserve’s meeting this week, where speech on climate change policy.
policymakers are grappling with increased Despite having failed to meet its
coronavirus infections and a disrupted global 2% inflation target for nearly a
supply chain that could induce more price decade, Kuroda said the central
pressures. bank’s policy has been in a right
course. “Corporate profits and
As for risks to the global economy, nearly 80% growth rates have much
of economists, or 160 of 202 responding to an extra improved, compared to the era of
question, said the biggest was a spread of new deflation,“ he said. – Reuters
coronavirus variants.
AMAZON EYES CRYPTO
Over 70% of economists, or 152 of 209, said the FUTURE BUT NOT
POISED FOR BITCOIN
SEC says US-listed Chinese firms must disclose government interference risks
NEW YORK: Amazon on Monday
WASHINGTON: Chinese companies listed on according to a Bloomberg report that hit shares had been warned by regulators to delay its initial denied a report that the e-
US stock exchanges must disclose the risks of the in the sector, including New York-listed TAL public offering and to address its cyber security. commerce giant planned to
Chinese government interfering in their Education Group and Gaotu Techedu Inc. Didi has said it had no knowledge of the begin accepting Bitcoin
businesses as part of their regular reporting investigation prior to its listing. payments by the end of this year,
obligations, a top US Securities and Exchange Some policymakers worry Chinese firms are but acknowledged an interest in
Commission official said on Monday. systematically flouting US rules, which require Over the past decade, Washington cryptocurrency. City AM cited as
public companies to disclose to investors a range policymakers have focused on getting US-listed unnamed insider as saying
Democratic commissioner Allison Lee’s of potential risks to their businesses. Chinese companies to comply with US Public Amazon would start taking
comments are the first by an SEC official since Company Accounting Oversight Board rules. cryptocurrency, citing a recent
Chinese regulators launched a massive cyber “Public companies must disclose significant Last year Congress passed a law that would kick job posting by the company for
probe of ride-hailing giant Didi Global last week, risks which, for China-based issuers, may Chinese companies off US exchanges unless they someone with digital currency
just days after its US$4.4 billion (RM18.6 billion) sometimes involve risks related to the regulatory adhere to American auditing standards. and blockchain skills. Contacted
New York listing, wiping 25% off its share price. environment and potential actions by the by AFP, an Amazon spokesperson
Chinese government,“ Lee, who served as acting But regulators have not generally focused on said information in the story was
Chinese authorities have cracked down on head of the SEC from late January to mid-April, Chinese company disclosure issues. Some “fabricated,“ but that the
other US-listed Chinese companies and may told Reuters in an interview. lawmakers are calling for the SEC to devote more company does have its eyes on
require tutoring firms to become non-profits, resources to the issue. – Reuters the cryptocurrency sector. “We’re
The Wall Street Journal has reported that Didi inspired by the innovation
happening in the cryptocurrency
space and are exploring what this
could look like at Amazon,“ the
spokesperson said. Amazon
handles hundreds of billions of
dollars in transactions annually,
making it a huge marketplace for
cryptocurrency to make a debut
as legal tender.

INSIDE EDGE 13theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | JULY 28, 2021
Bangladesh lose key players for T20 series Down Under SPORTS

BANGLADESH have ruled out batsmen Mushfiqur Rahim and Liton Das Homing in on gold
for a Twenty20 series against Australia next month after they left the Matsuyama aims to ride wave of local support to Olympic gloryS MASTERS champion
team’s coronavirus bubble, a top official said yesterday. Mushfiqur and Hideki Matsuyama is hoping
Liton left a recent tour of Zimbabwe early because of family emergencies to draw inspiration from
and must isolate before rejoining the squad, said Bangladesh Cricket
Board chief executive Nizam Uddin Chowdhury. “Our agreed protocol UJapan’s early momentum at
with Australia is that a player has to be in a bio-secure zone at least 10 Australia’s Marc Leishman and golfers will face a supreme test on a
days before the series,” Chowdhury told AFP. Australia are expected to Canada’s Corey Conners in the first 7,447-yard par-71 layout that features
arrive in Bangladesh today for the five-match series, which starts Aug 3. two rounds. tight fairways, punishing rough and
“Liton left the bio-secure zone in Zimbabwe on Monday. If he had undulating greens, but should play
returned with the team, he would have been available for selection. Since “Three weeks ago I got tested
he left the team early and mixed with the community, he cannot be Tokyo 2020 when he begins his quest positive for Covid-19 and I wasn’t easier after being softened by heavy
considered for the series,” Chowdhury said. “The same applies for for Olympic gold at the Kasumigaseki really sure if I’ll be able to make it.” rain yesterday.
Mushfiqur. We spoke to the Australian team to reduce the period to eight Country Club tomorrow. Japan’s No. 2, Rikuya Hoshino, will “The key still will be tee-shot
days to include Mushfiqur. But their medical team did not agree,” he Asia’s first US Masters champion is have the honour of striking the first placement and accuracy around the
added. revered in Japan but the pressure of shot in the Tokyo 2020 golf greens,” said Matsuyama.
carrying his nation’s hopes has been tournament at 7.30am tomorrow Matsuyama was followed by huge
Aussie bowlers shine against Windies eased after his country topped the (6.30am Malaysian time). galleries when he pushed Tiger Woods
medal table with eight golds after Morikawa, who all the way in the 2019 Zozo
AUSTRALIA’S varied bowling attack once again dominated a suspect West Monday’s action. is of Japanese Championship in Japan, but this time
Indies batting line-up on the way to a series-clinching six-wicket victory in the “Hopefully I can follow their and Chinese the course will be spectator-free.
decisive final fixture of the three-match One-Day International series at footsteps and be in a position to win a descent, “It sucks,” said US golfer Xander
Kensington Oval in Barbados yesterday. Opening batsman Evin Lewis played a medal as well,” said Matsuyama, who will set out Schauffele, who has Asian heritage
lone hand with an unbeaten 55 as the tourists bundled out the home side for has previously tasted success at the in a star- and lamented the fact that he cannot
152 off 45.1 overs batting first with Mitchell Starc leading the rout with figures venue. s t u d d e d hook up with family because of strict
of three for 43. Fellow new ball bowler Hazlewood was at his most miserly in He will have to battle into the top g r o u p virus protocols.
claiming two for 18 while the trio of spinners Adam Zampa, Ashton Agar and three of a high-class 60-player field with “There’s no nice way of putting it. I
Ashton Turner combined for the other five wickets. Matthew Wade's unbeaten studded with fellow Major Ireland’s think anyone that’s not aware, golf in
51 led Australia to the target with almost 20 overs to spare. champions including US player four-time Japan is a massive sport. If spectators
Collin Morikawa, fresh from his m a j o r were allowed, there would be a
… as Pollard slams pitch success at this month’s British Open. winner Rory massive showout with people.
The past two US Open champions, McIlroy and “Personally, selfishly, of course I
AUSTRALIA handed the West Indies a six-wicket defeat yesterday to clinch a Jon Rahm and Bryson DeChambeau, South Korea’s really want to see my grandparents.”
2-1 one-day international series win and leave home captain Kieron Pollard were forced to withdraw from the Im Sung-jae. Morikawa is part of a powerful US
criticising the quality of the pitch in Bridgetown. “I think both teams struggled Olympics after testing positive for T h e team that showed its strength in depth
on the pitch and I think that’s unacceptable for international cricket,” said coronavirus. by drafting in 2018 US Masters
Pollard. “We’re not going to make excuses. We accept that we batted badly but Matsuyama, who returned champion Patrick Reed to replace
I don’t think the scores that we have gotten in this three-match series, with a positive test for Covid- DeChambeau and play
two top international teams, I think that’s very embarrassing for us as a 19 at the alongside top-five players
people.” beginning of Justin Thomas and
July, at one Schauffele.
point also Despite the
feared his restrictions, Morikawa
Olympic said Japan was one of
dream might his favourite places to
be over. visit.
“I’m very “You embrace the
322 Notices 322 Notices 322 Notices happy to be culture,” he said. “You

IN THE HIGH COURT OF MALAYA IN THE HIGH COURT OF MALAYA IN THE HIGH COURT OF MALAYA able to enjoy just being
AT KUALA LUMPUR AT SHAH ALAM AT KUALA LUMPUR participate here and I think
in the Hideki you feel like you’re
IN THE FEDERAL TERRITORY IN THE STATE OF SELANGOR (COMMERCIAL DIVISION) Olympics Matsuyama a part of the
OF MALAYSIA DARUL EHSAN COMPANIES WINDING UP NO:
here,” said society. You feel
COMPANIES WINDING-UP NO.: COMPANIES WINDING-UP NO.: WA-28NCC-334-05/2021 the 29- respected and
WA-28NCC-440-07/2021 BA-28NCC-309-07/2021 In the matter of Section 466 (1) (a) of year-old, that’s how as
the Companies Act, 2016 who will athletes you
In the matter of Ladiy Healthcare Sdn In the matter of Phytogold Sdn Bhd Sdn play with want it.” – AFP
Bhd [Company No.: 201301032387 Bhd [Company No.: 201101045369 And
(1062216-P)] (973489-M)] In the matter of FEC Cables (M) Sdn Bhd Morikawa embracing Japanese culture
(Company No: 196701000324(7293-
and and W)) FRESH from winning the British Open, you feel like you’re a part of the society what kind of up and downs you can
In the matter of Section 465(1)(e) and In the matter of Section 465(1)(e) and Collin Morikawa is relishing his when you’re here, you feel respected. make. I think you can get some pretty
466(1)(a) of the Companies Act 2016. 466(1)(a) of the Companies Act 2016. And Olympic debut in Tokyo having taken a As athletes you want to be respected. tough lies out here.”
In the matter of Company Winding Up liking to Japan and its culture on We’re very thankful for being here.”
BETWEEN BETWEEN Rules 1972 previous visits to the country. Morikawa will tackle the course
MALAYSIAN TECHNOLOGY MALAYSIAN TECHNOLOGY The players can expect rain playing with former world No. 1 Rory
DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION Between The 24-year-old American, who is Kasumigaseki Country Club tomorrow McIlroy while home favourite and
SDN BHD SDN BHD CENTRAL CABLES BERHAD half Japanese, has climbed to third in when the first round gets underway Masters champion Hideki Matsuyama
[Company No.: [Company No.: (Company No: 196701000235(7169- the world rankings after claiming two and Morikawa said their approach is also in the field.
199201004292 (235796-U)] 199201004292 (235796-U)] A)) major titles since turning professional shots would have to be near perfect.
two years ago. “Golf is golf, we play four days,
…PETITIONER …PETITIONER …Petitioner “Out here it’s amazing, conditions every week is different. You don’t know
AND AND And “This is my fourth time being here are pristine,” he added. “It’s unfortunate how someone’s going to play and I
LADIY HEALTHCARE SDN BHD PHYTOGOLD SDN BHD FEC CABLES (M) SDN BHD (in Japan), third time playing golf, and that we’re going to get a little rain, it’s think that’s what makes our sport
[Company No.: [Company No.: 201101045369 (Company No: 196701000324(7293- it’s not just because I love the area and going to be softer than probably what amazing,” Morikawa said.
201301032387 (1062216-P)] (973489-M)] W)) I love everything about it, but you we would hoped for.
embrace the culture,” Morikawa told “Some of the best players in the
…RESPONDENT …RESPONDENT …Respondent reporters yesterday. “It’s still going to put a really good world are very consistent. When you
ADVERTISEMENT OF PETITION ADVERTISEMENT OF PETITION ADVERTISEMENT OF PETITION test of making sure you’re hitting it put it on a stage like this, who’s going
NOTICE is hereby given that the NOTICE is hereby given that the Notice is hereby given that a Petition “You enjoy just being here. I think really well off the tee and then seeing to be able to step up?”– Reuters
Petition for Winding-Up of the Petition for Winding-Up of the for the winding-up of the above-
abovenamed company by the High abovenamed company by the High named company by the High Court Mercedes fire ‘naive’ warning to team
Court, was on the 7th day of July 2021 Court, was on the 7th day of July 2021 was, on the 10th day of May, 2021,
presented by Malaysian Technology presented by Malaysian Technology presented by the said company and AFTER a strong performance at the teammate Sergio Perez finishing us, we’re just going to throw
Development Corporation Sdn Bhd Development Corporation Sdn Bhd that the said petition is directed to British Grand Prix, Mercedes’ trackside outside of the top 15, Mercedes sliced everything at it now to try and get
[Company No.: 199201004292 [Company No.: 199201004292 be heard before the Court sitting engineering director Andrew Shovlin Red Bull’s lead to just four points in through it.”
(235796-U)] and that the said petition (235796-U)] and that the said petition at Kuala Lumpur High Court, believes the team would be “naive” to the teams’ standings, with
is directed to be heard before the Court is directed to be heard before the Court Insolvency Court, Level 5, Left think they have the advantage Verstappen’s lead cut to eight over After Hungary, Formula One shuts
sitting at Kuala Lumpur High Court on sitting at Shah Alam High Court on the Wing, Kompleks Mahkamah Kuala heading to Budapest after Lewis Hamilton. down for a few weeks for the August
the 6th day of October 2021 at 9.30 6th day of October 2021 at 9.00 a.m. Lumpur, Jalan Duta, 50592, Kuala Hamilton took victory at Silverstone. summer break, with Mercedes hoping
a.m. and any creditor or contributory of and any creditor or contributory of the Lumpur at 9.30 o’clock in forenoon, “Silverstone is one of our best to take command of the standings
the said company desiring to support said company desiring to support or on the 1st day of September, 2021; The British-based German team tracks, so it would be naive for us to heading into the shutdown.
or oppose the making of an order oppose the making of an order on the and any creditor or contributory of the slashed Red Bull’s advantage in both think we can go to Hungary and
on the said petition may appear at said petition may appear at the time of said company desiring to support or the driver and team standings, pulling expect to carry this performance in,” “If we can get ourselves ahead
the time of hearing by himself or his hearing by himself or his counsel for oppose the making of an order on the themselves back into championship said Shovlin. going into the summer break, that
counsel for that purpose and a copy that purpose and a copy of the petition said Petition may appear at the time of contention as Max Verstappen would be fantastic,” said Shovlin. “So
of the petition will be furnished to any will be furnished to any creditor or hearing by himself or his counsel for crashed out of the race on the “Red Bull are going to be good at a that’s probably the target we’ll set
creditor or contributory of the said contributory of the said company that purpose; and a copy of the Petition opening lap. high-downforce circuit,” he added. ourselves.
company requiring the same by the requiring the same by the undersigned will be furnished to any creditor or “Frankly, they’re good at every circuit
undersigned on the payment of the on the payment of the regulated contributory of the said company Hamilton and Verstappen had a at the moment and they’re going to “It’s a stretch target, but we’ve
regulated charge for the same. charge for the same. requiring the same by the undersigned coming together, with the Briton be a bit bruised after the experience shown [at Silverstone] that
The Petitioner’s address is at The Petitioner’s address is at on payment of the regulated charge for deemed at fault for the crash, with the (in the British Grand Prix), so I’m sure everything’s possible – you’ve just got
Management Office, Ground Floor, Management Office, Ground Floor, the same. stewards handing the seven-time they’re going to come back really to keep going, try and get better, try
Menara Yayasan Tun Razak, Jalan Menara Yayasan Tun Razak, Jalan The Petitioner’s address is at Suite world champion a ten-second time strong. and improve.
Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur. Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur. C-5-4, Wisma Goshen, Jalan Pantai penalty for his part in the crash.
The Petitioner’s Solicitors are Messrs. The Petitioner’s Solicitors are Messrs. Baharu, Plaza Pantai, 59200, Kuala “But we’re about halfway through “They’re a difficult team to beat,
Samrith Sanjiv & Partners at 14-2, Samrith Sanjiv & Partners at 14-2, Lumpur. However with a DNF (Did Not the championship, there are very fine but I think we’re a strong team and
Jalan Sri Hartamas 8, Taman Sri Jalan Sri Hartamas 8, Taman Sri The Petitioner’s solicitor is Messrs Finish) for Verstappen, and his margins in terms of the points, and for we’ll be putting everything into it to
Hartamas, 50480 Kuala Lumpur. Hartamas, 50480 Kuala Lumpur. AMIR & RAJPAL GHAI of Suite 2011 & try and win.” – Express Newspapers
2012, Level 20, Plaza Pengkalan, Jalan
-Signed- -Signed- Tiong off, Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah,
---------------------------------------- ----------------------------------------- 51100, Kuala Lumpur.
Messrs. Samrith Sanjiv & Partners
Messrs. Samrith Sanjiv & Partners signed
Solicitors for the Petitioner Solicitors for the Petitioner _____________________
NOTE:- Any person who intends to Solicitors for the Petitioner
appear on the hearing of the said NOTE:- Any person who intends to Messrs AMIR & RAJPAL GHAI
petition must serve on or send by appear on the hearing of the said NOTE:
post to the abovenamed Petitioner’s petition must serve on or send by Any person who intends to appear on
solicitors, Messrs. Samrith Sanjiv post to the abovenamed Petitioner’s the hearing of the said petition must
& Partners notice in writing of his solicitors, Messrs. Samrith Sanjiv serve on or send by post to the above-
intention to do so. The notice must & Partners notice in writing of his named Messrs AMIR & RAJPAL GHAI,
state the name and address of the intention to do so. The notice must notice in writing of his intention so to
person, or, if a firm, the name and state the name and address of the do. The notice must state the name
address of the firm, and must be person, or, if a firm, the name and and address of the person, or, if a firm,
signed by the person or firm or his address of the firm, and must be the name and address of the firm, and
or their solicitor (if any) must be signed by the person or firm or his must be signed by the person or firm,
served, or if posted, must be sent by or their solicitor (if any) must be or his or their solicitors (if any) and
post in sufficient time to reach the served, or if posted, must be sent by must be served, or, if posted, must
abovenamed not later than 12.00 noon post in sufficient time to reach the be sent by post in sufficient time to
of the 5th day of October 2021. abovenamed not later than 12.00 noon reach the above-named not later
Tel: 03 – 6201 9526 Fax: 03 – 6201 of the 5th day of October 2021. than twelve o’clock noon of the day
9527 Tel: 03 – 6201 9526 Fax: 03 – 6201 30th August, 2021 (two days before
[Ref No.: SSP/SS/MTDC- 9527 the day appointed for the hearing of
LHSB/1694/2021(WU)] [Ref No.: SSP/SS/MTDC- the petition)
PSB/1658/2020(WU)] (Ref : ARG/CCB/L/057/2021/RS)

14 theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | JULY 28, 2021
SPORTS

MEDAL SHORTS Olympics, the Kuching-born Pandelela nine with their first arrow before the ROC archer
TALLY Pandelela-Mun Yee’s partnered with Jun Hoong to clinch the edged ahead to 19-18 at the second arrow. Elena
medal quest falls flat women’s 10m platform synchronised silver then confirmed her place in the next round
COUNTRY GS B TTL medal. when she shot a 10 to win 29-23 for a 6-4
United States 96 8 23 MANY were counting on divers Pandelela triumph.
China 95 7 21 Rinong-Leong Mun Yee to deliver Malaysia’s first Mun Yee, 36, who is also in Tokyo for her fifth
Japan 93 5 17 medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics but the duo’s Olympic appearance since making her debut at With Syaqiera’s exit, all eyes will now be on
ROC 77 4 18 quest fell flat when they could only finish eighth the 2000 Sydney Games, has won medals in Khairul Anuar Mohamad when he faces Antti
Great Britain 45 3 12 – and last – in the women’s 10m platform almost all international competitions. Only the VIkstrom of Finland in the first round of the
South Korea 32 49 synchronised final at the Tokyo Aquatics Centre Olympic medal has eluded her, thus far. men’s individual recurve event at the same
Australia 31 59 yesterday. venue today.
Canada 23 38 Archer Syaqiera goes down fighting
France 22 37 The experienced duo began well, scoring Liu Ying taking social media
Kosovo 20 02 50.40 points to be placed second after the first NATIONAL archer Syaqiera Mashayikh criticism in stride
Italy 15 6 12 dive. But, as the session progressed, the may have crashed out in the first
Chinese Taipei 12 36 Malaysian duo’s performance took a round of the women’s individual THE critics, especially the keyboard warriors, can
Brazil 12 25 nosedive, especially in their last three recurve event yesterday but at say what they want on social media, but mixed
Switzerland 12 25 attempts and, eventually, they least she went down fighting doubles shuttler Goh Liu Ying does not intend to
Slovenia 11 13 could only accumulate 277.98 by taking her opponent all dwell on it too much.
Serbia 11 13 points from five dives. the way down to the wire.
Hungary 11 02 Syaqiera, 20, lost 4-6 to The 32-year-old said that like all sports fans in
Tunisia 11 02 What makes yesterday’s the Russian Olympic Malaysia, she and her partner, Chan Peng Soon,
Germany 10 34 capitulation all the more difficult Committee’s (ROC) Elena were also disappointed with their failure to make
Austria 10 12 to take is that Pandelela had Osipova at the Yumenoshima an impact here despite having given their best.
Croatia 10 12 won silver in this event at the Park Archery Field in Tokyo.
Estonia 10 12 2016 Rio Olympics with Cheong The Malaysian got off to a “I understand they (netizens) have placed
Jun Hoong. promising start when she won the high hopes on us. That’s why they criticised our
performance (at the Tokyo Olympics). But, for
Pandelela, 28, who is competing first set 26-25 to go 2-0 up but Elena me, the most important thing about being an
in her fourth straight Olympics since hit back to win the second set 28-26 to make it athlete is that we gave our best.
making her debut at the Beijing edition in 2-2.
2008, became the country’s first diver to win an “We play to win… for ourselves and the
Olympic medal when she bagged the 10m The two archers drew the next two 26-26 and nation. If their comments are positive, we will
platform individual bronze at the 2012 London 25-25, leaving them tied at 4-4. accept, but if they are negative to the extent that
Games. our performance is affected, then I won’t bother,”
In the decider, Syaqiera and Elena each shot a she told Bernama yesterday
And four years later, at the 2016 Rio

Diaz lifts a nation ‘Can’t help but
cheer’ as Japan
warms to Games
Philippine weightlifter hailed for historic Olympic gold
AFTER months of opposition, some in
Hidilyn Diaz of Japan are warming to the pandemic-hit
the Philippines Olympics, with fans defying authorities to
in action during cheer athletes on public roads and rushing
the weightlifting to snap up Games merchandise.
women’s 55kg
category in the It hasn’t hurt that Japan’s athletes have
Tokyo 2020 enjoyed a gold rush in the first four days of
Olympics at the Games, triumphing in sports ranging
the Tokyo from judo to skateboarding.
International
Forum yesterday. Fans are barred from almost all events
– REUTERSPIX over virus fears, and have been asked to
stay away from competitions on public
WITH their eyes glued to a proud of you!” Pacquiao tweeted from the yesterday morning and congratulated her. roads.
television in the southern United States where he is training for his “I told her… ‘It’s a big honour to our family
Philippines, the family of upcoming fight against American Errol Spence. But they’ve been showing up anyway,
weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz yelled that you brought another honour to the determined for a glimpse of Olympic action.
“push, push, push!” as she hoisted the bar to The feat is also a life-changing windfall for country,’” Emelita told AFP via telephone.
win the country’s first Olympic gold medal. Diaz, the daughter of a tricycle driver on the “If you see these athletes running in
southern island of Mindanao. More than 20 relatives, including nieces front of you, you can’t help but cheer for
“Then we erupted in joy – we were and nephews, crowded onto the porch of the them,” said 42-year-old Hirochika Takeda,
shouting, some shed tears of joy,” Emelita Diaz As a reward for winning gold, Diaz will family home to watch Diaz’s performance, who popped out of his apartment to see
told AFP yesterday, a day after watching her receive at least 33 million pesos (RM2.8m) using a smartphone connected to their the women’s triathlon passing by in the rain.
daughter’s historic performance in Tokyo – far from the government and private sector, as well television.
from her hometown of Zamboanga. as a house. “I had questions about holding the
“We were nervous,” said Emelita. “They Olympics right up until the opening
“We didn’t know what to feel because we It could also prove a “game-changer” for were shouting ‘push, push, push,’ get it, Haidie!.’ ceremony,” the IT professional said.
were extremely happy.” other Filipino athletes, presidential spokesman They were shouting and jumping for joy.”
Harry Roque said yesterday, acknowledging “But once the sport began, I started to
After nearly 18 months training in exile in government financial support was insufficient. Diaz has not seen her family since feel that maybe this is a good thing.”
Malaysia because of Covid-19 restrictions, Diaz December 2019 and has spoken openly of the
smashed her personal best and won gold with “It’s as if our athletes are only getting sacrifices she has made in pursuit of her In Tokyo’s Odaiba area, hundreds of
a final clean and jerk of 127kg in the women’s minimum wage,” he said. dream. people defied authorities and the rain to
55kg class. cheer competitors in the women’s triathlon
Diaz’s stunning victory was splashed across But after a sleepless night, Diaz said yesterday.
The 30-year-old’s triumph – which followed the front pages of Philippine newspapers and Tuesday she was already thinking about the
her silver medal in Rio five years ago – has dominated internet platforms. Paris Olympics in 2024. Nearly all wore masks and restricted
made her a national hero, alongside the likes of themselves to clapping, and those who did
boxing legend Manny Pacquiao. The Philippine Star’s headline Finally, “Qualifying will be difficult, but if my shout stood a distance from others.
Olympic Gold reflected the collective relief of strength is there I will continue,” she told
“Thank you, Hidilyn Diaz, for the first-ever Filipinos at winning their first gold medal after reporters on Zoom. “Ganbatte, ganbatte (go, go)”, cheered
Olympic Gold for the Philippines! We are so 97 years of Olympic competition. Atsuko Kawata, a retiree from a nearby
“I cannot quit after winning. I need to neighbourhood as the athletes ran past.
Emelita said the family spoke with Diaz continue until someone succeeds me.” – AFP
“I don’t know anything about this sport,
but I’m happy to see them. I’m going to
brag about this to my kids,” she added
cheerfully.

“All kinds of things were said about the
Olympics, but I wanted to support these
athletes.” – AFP

Awesome McKeown extends gold run for Australia’s women

KAYLEE MCKEOWN powered to her first McKeown’s victory put Australia’s say to me,” she said. “I never thought I would be in Olympics let
Olympic gold yesterday and a third win in swimmers on equal terms with the United “He was with me that entire race not just alone an Olympic final then to stand on the
three days for a triumphant Australian States in the gold medal race with three each, podium with a gold medal around my neck,
women’s team, launching a thrilling fightback turning up the heat in the latest round of one last 10 metres so its kind of a little superpower it’s something that a lot of people dream of,”
in the 100m backstroke to go within a of the most enduring Olympic rivalries. that I have within myself.” McKeown said.
fingertip of her own world record.
The win comes during an impressive run in The 20-year-old Queenslander was just two “I’m still soaking it all up.”
Canada’s Kylie Masse took a good lead from which McKeown ranked top in three Tokyo hundredths of a second shy of the world Australia’s performance at the Games
the start and held it at the halfway mark but events, driven by the memory of her father, record she set in the Australian trials in June. reflected the atmosphere and the bond within
McKeown switched gears out of the turn and who died of cancer last year. the team, she said.
clawed back to win in 57.47, with Masse The win followed a similar gritty display on “I wouldn’t change this team for any in the
taking silver and American Reagan Smith the “One hundred percent I know it’s stupid of Monday from compatriot Ariarne Titmus, who world,” McKeown added. “The Aussies have a
bronze. me to say it but I can feel his presence, certain came from behind to snatch gold from lot of pride behind them.” – Reuters
things pop up on my phone, only things he’d dominant American Katie Ledecky in the
400m freestyle.

TOUCHLINES 15theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | JULY 28, 2021
* SPORTS
MANCHESTER UNITED will sign Real Madrid
and France defender Raphael Varane on a Time to listen to Gini
four-year deal with an option of a fifth year, Reaction to impact of social media abuse shows we still have a lot to learn
but a date for the 28-year-old’s medical is
unclear because of quarantine restrictions. █ MELISSA REDDY loneliness, social issues, and being offers him and his family security for
NEWCASTLE are pushing to sign former more empowered to have a voice – the next three years.
England U-21 defender Axel Tuanzebe, 23, from WE NEED to listen. you’d think we’d know that we need to
Manchester United. After all we’ve seen, listen. He did not believe the proposal on
JUVENTUS are keen to sell Aaron Ramsey this heard, and learned the table reflected his role in
summer as the Wales midfielder, 30, is seen during this daunting Pause. No fast-forwarding to Liverpool’s transformation, how much
by the club as a financial burden. global pandemic – teams conclusions. Drop the defences. Kill the club depended on him, nor what
BEN WHITE is expected to have his Arsenal expressing the significance of the desire to know more, to know he can contribute in the coming years.
medical on Wednesday with a £50m deal for the taking a knee, managers and better. Just listen.
England defender, 23, having been agreed with players sharing their mental health Both parties have the right to their
Brighton last week. struggles, referees shedding light on Last weekend, Gini Wijnaldum’s chosen stance and can count the past
ROMELU LUKAKU is happy at Inter Milan the threats against their lives and account of feeling unloved and five years as a supremely beneficial
and the Belgium striker, 28, is not unwanted by Liverpool’s ownership experience.
planning on leaving the club this that of their family, group and the multitudes of the club’s
summer, despite interest from footballers “supporters” that abused him across Liverpool didn’t match
Chelsea. opening up social media was published. Wijnaldum’s value, Barcelona dithered
MANCHESTER UNITED are prepared to about heavily on finalising a deal as they tried
listen to offers for eight members of their The midfielder, now at Paris Saint- to mix their financial muddle, and
squad, including France forward Anthony Gini Germain, conveyed how the online Mauricio Pochettino finally got his
Martial, 25, Wales winger Daniel James, Wijnaldum toxicity affected him and fed into the man.
23, and England defender Phil Jones, 29. atmosphere – largely shaped by a
CRYSTAL PALACE are close to contract offer that did not match his The whole picture has been
completing the signing of 25-year-old crucial service in terms of length nor painted solely around money.
Lyon and Denmark defender Joachim pay – that he’d overstayed his welcome
Andersen, who had a spell on loan at at Anfield. Klopp has long detailed how
Fulham last season. changing the psychology of the squad
TOTTENHAM are stepping up their At no point did Wijnaldum say this and drowning out external noises was
attempts to sign Atalanta’s Argentine abuse was the reason he left Liverpool. his biggest challenge at Liverpool.
centreback Cristian Romero, 23, for £40m. He was compelled to highlight that it
ASTON VILLA’S bid to sign Bayer Leverkusen’s played on his mind, had stretched into “As soon as I came in, I realised
Jamaican winger Leon Bailey has been discussions with friends and family, nobody is happy with the team,” he
complicated by Leicester, Everton, Wolves and had a detrimental effect on him says in the book Believe Us.
and Southampton showing an interest in the personally during his last two seasons
23-year-old, who could be available for at the club. “And I realised the team is not
£30m. happy with the team. That is a big, big
JUVENTUS have told Cristiano Ronaldo they He wanted to talk about the hatred problem and I thought, ‘OK this needs
expect him to stay at the club this season. that engulfs social platforms because a proper restart.’
The Portugal forward, 36, has been linked we should not shrug and accept it.
with a move as he has just one year left “The players were obviously
on his contract. That no amount of money or status listening to all the voices saying they
BARCELONA are yet to receive any can shield you from a torrent of being are not good enough for the club or
contact from clubs interested in told you’re s**t – and that’s the nice bit that I can’t wait to get rid of them.
signing France forward Antoine – on repeat. There were a lot of insecure players.
Griezmann, 30.
XHERDAN SHAQIRI looks set to leave Naturally, the reaction to “I think, especially in England,
Liverpool this summer, with Napoli Wijnaldum flagging social media everybody is used to the first thing a
and Lazio among the clubs keen to abuse was for him to… be abused on manager does to save his own life is to
sign the Switzerland winger, 29. social media. sack whoever he can.
ARSENAL are considering a move for
Portuguese winger Matchoi Djalo, 18, Despite not once referencing the “I needed the time to convince the
who is available for about £1m from Pacos online poison as core to his exit from boys about their own qualities and
de Ferreira. Liverpool as a free agent, it has been thankfully I was given the time and
WEST HAM are keen on signing Denmark positioned as his excuse for departing. look at them now: champions of
defender Jens Styger Larsen, 30, who is in the Europe, England and the world.”
final year of his contract at Udinese and would We beg footballers to swerve the
cost £4.2m. cliches and to give us an authentic Wijnaldum was a pivotal part of
FORMER West Ham and Stoke forward Marko window into the people they are. those successes. Instead of telling him
Arnautovic, 32, will arrive in Italy this week - to “man up” in prettier ways and
the Austrian is completing a move from Wijnaldum told us how he felt and ultimately accusing him of greed,
Chinese side Shanghai Port to Bologna. we told him he’s wrong. We took his respect his contributions and his
LEEDS UNITED and Crystal Palace are interested words and twisted them as his defence feelings.
in signing Chelsea and England Under-21 for leaving to earn the money he
midfielder Conor Gallagher, 21, on loan. deserves at PSG, on a contract that Do not shame the victim. Shame
ARSENAL and Iceland goalkeeper Alex the abusers on social media. – The
Runarsson, 26, is set to join Turkish side Altay Independent
on loan for the rest of the season.
NEWCASTLE’S Japan striker Yoshinori Muto, 29, Kane has four reasons for wanting City transfer
is in talks to join Greek side Aris Salonika, after
spending last season on loan at Spanish club HARRY KANE’S desire to leave has been one of of coaches most players must covet working the final in 2019, but defeat by Liverpool only
Eibar. the few constants in a summer transfer window with. heightened his motivation to return to
LEAGUE ONE Wycombe are in advanced talks which began in chaotic fashion for Tottenham European football’s showpiece event.
to sign Welsh striker Sam Vokes, 31, from Hotspur. City are currently desperate for a striker
Championship side Stoke. following Sergio Aguero’s departure at the end If he stays at Tottenham, which remains likely
STOKE are interested in signing Aston Villa’s Spurs have found some solidity with Nuno of his contract and Kane knows he would given the three years remaining on his contract
English striker Keinan Davis, 23, on a loan deal. Espirito Santo and Fabio Paratici in place but immediately be installed as Guardiola’s main and Daniel Levy’s reluctance to sell, he will be
Kane’s looming departure remains a nagging man, if the deal went through. playing in Europe’s third tier competition.
£1 = RM5.80 issue for the club’s hierarchy.
To win trophies The Europa Conference League is a new
Tottenham have finally hit the ground venture to broaden Uefa’s scope to lesser teams.
running in the transfer market, confirming the There is a reason Man City are willing to pay Tottenham’s involvement will probably be seen
signings of goalkeeper Pierluigi Gollini and in excess of £100m (RM585m) for Kane’s as more of a distraction and indication of last
winger Bryan Gil in the past week. signature: they believe he can propel them to season’s mediocrity rather than a chance of
more trophies. silverware.
Gollini has arrived from Atalanta in a loan
deal with an option to buy while Gil has joined City won the Premier League and Carabao It is easy to see why Kane would rather play
from Sevilla, with Erik Lamela travelling in the Cup last season - and yet that campaign was still in the Champions League in 2021/22.
opposite direction. tinged with disappointment following their
Champions League final defeat by Chelsea in To improve individually
The deals represent a promising start to Porto.
business for Spurs, but they still face a fight to Kane recorded an outstanding tally of 23
keep hold of their talisman, who has made it These are the levels Kane aspires to. Those goals and 14 assists in 35 Premier League
clear he is not giving up on forcing an exit. two trophies were more than he has won in his appearances last season to win the Golden
entire career, despite being the Premier League’s Boot. That was the third time he has claimed the
It has been widely reported that Manchester outstanding goalscorer for several years. top flight’s scoring award, just one short of
City is Kane’s desired move – and City are Thierry Henry’s record.
equally keen on him, having already had a £100 City have won three of the last four Premier
million (RM580m) bid turned down – but why League titles, the last four Carabao Cups (and six If Kane stays at Spurs he will undoubtedly
does the England striker want the transfer? of the last eight overall), as well as the FA Cup in continue to score goals; he has shown his class
2019 as part of a domestic treble. even when his team is struggling.
To play under Pep
Put simply, a move to the Etihad is a near But to push himself further a move away
Kane is an ambitious person and the chance guarantee of silverware, something which Kane from north London is needed. If he moves to
to work with modern football’s premier coach is craves. City he will be playing alongside the likes of
surely a strong pull. Raheem Sterling, Riyad Mahrez, Phil Foden,
To play Champions Kevin De Bruyne, Bernardo Silva and Ferran
The 27-year-old enjoyed a close relationship League football Torres, not just Son Heung-min.
with Mauricio Pochettino, but has no ties to new
Spurs manager Nuno and he may feel now is Talking of trophies, City desperately want to The fact he managed 37 goal contributions
the perfect time to cut ties. win the Champions League – a desire which is last season is remarkable. Just think of the
matched by Kane. heights he could hit playing in a better side.
Guardiola has developed his reputation
through successful spells at Barcelona, Bayern The Spurs striker has come close, reaching Express Newspapers
Munich and Man City and he is one of a handful

TOKYO OLYMPICS 2020

Download theSun app from

Events schedule or go to www.thesundaily.my
and medal table

WEDNESDAY • JULY 28, 2021 Tokyo Games
wait for next Bolt
of lightning

WHEN IT ALL USAIN BOLT bestrode athletics as a colossus for a decade
GOES WRONG…! but his retirement in 2017 left a massive publicity void the
sport has struggled to fill, despite a succession of amazing
Nicaragua’s Sema performances by a string of richly-talented athletes.
Nancy Ludrick
Rivascompetes in the Bolt’s combination of incredible speed, big-race
women’s 64kg delivery and joyous personality helped ensure athletics
weightlifting maintained its position as the number one sport of the
competition during the Olympics, with the 100m, which the Jamaican won three
Tokyo 2020 Olympic times alongside three 200m golds, the absolute blue
Games at the Tokyo riband event of every Games.
International Forum
yesterday. – AFPPIX Replacing him as such a crowd and sponsor-pleasing
draw was always going to be a tough, possibly
Up in flames impossible, challenge as athletics fights an increasingly
Osaka suffers home Olympic shock difficult battle for TV ratings.
against unheralded Vondrousova
JAPANESE tennis star Naomi Osaka’s “I think we have a lot who are the next… look nobody
dreams of home Olympic gold were the first set. is going to immediately step into Bolt’s shoes,”World
crushed by a 6-1, 6-4 defeat to Marketa The second seed broke in the second set Athletics chief Sebastian Coe told a small group of
reporters yesterday.
but relinquished the early advantage with a
Vondrousova yesterday as her return to double fault that allowed Vondrousova to “When Muhammad Ali retired we had plenty of great
action came to an abrupt end. level at two games apiece. boxers that came along… but they are not Muhammad
Osaka, who lit the Olympic cauldron and The 23-year-old grappled with Ali and they will not be Usain Bolt, nor do they need to
was one of the faces of the Games, struggled inconsistency, and even when given a sniff of be.”
in an error-strewn display that blew the draw regaining the initiative she had no response
wide open after the earlier exits of world No. to Vondrousova’s array of crafty drop shots. The sport has always had a slightly uncomfortable
1 Ashleigh Barty and third seed Aryna Osaka saved two match points as she internal relationship between track and field, with the
Sabalenka. runners generally hogging the limelight while the
served to stay alive at 4-5 but Vondrousova throwers, jumpers and vaulters battle for recognition, in
“How disappointed am I? I mean, I’m converted at the third time of asking as the every sense.
disappointed in every loss, but I feel like this Japanese superstar smacked a backhand
one sucks more than the others,” said the wide. At his peak Bolt was probably the world’s most
four-time Grand Slam winner. Vondrousova will go on to face Spain’s recognisable sportsperson and certainly one of the most
Asked what went wrong, she replied: Paula Badosa in the quarterfinals. marketable. In contrast, the two 2020 Athletes of the year
“Everything – if you watch the match then “Of course it’s one of the biggest wins of were Swedish pole vaulter Mondo Duplantis and
you would probably see. I feel like there’s a lot my career,” said Vondrousova, the 2019 Venezuelan triple jumper Yulimar Rojas.
of things that I counted on that I couldn’t rely French Open runner-up.
on today.” Both had magnificent, world-record breaking seasons
Ukrainian fourth seed Elina Svitolina is and are massive names in their homelands but, partly
The third-round defeat follows a the highest-ranked women’s player because of the “second-fiddle” nature of their events,
turbulent few months for Osaka, who remaining in Tokyo. their names remain largely unknown to the general
abandoned her French Open campaign in She won her third successive three-setter, public.
May after refusing to attend press recovering to defeat Greece’s Maria Sakkari
conferences, citing the need to preserve her 5-7, 6-3, 6-4. There is a similar challenge with the marathon, where
mental health. Wimbledon runner-up Karolina Pliskova, Eliud Kipchoge is undoubtedly at the same level as Bolt
Osaka also skipped Wimbledon, saying seeded fifth, slumped to a 6-4, 6-2 loss to in terms of domination of an iconic event.
she had been battling depression and Italy’s Camila Giorgi.
anxiety, before returning in Tokyo for her first His breaking of the two-hour barrier, albeit “unofficial”,
Olympics, including her starring role at the Swiss ninth seed Belinda Bencic beat put him on the front pages in 2019 and the world record
opening ceremony. French Open champion Barbora Krejcikova holder will certainly be big news when he defends his
1-6, 6-2, 6-3, while Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova Olympic title in Sapporo.
“I definitely feel like there was a lot of ended the run of Spain’s Sara Sorribes
pressure for this. I think it’s maybe because I Tormo, who dumped Barty out in round one. Yet, the marathon remains something of an event for
haven’t played in the Olympics before and Two-time Grand Slam winner Garbine purists and though Kipchoge is a humble, thoughtful and
for the first year (it) was a bit much,” said Muguruza sailed past Alison Van Uytvanck of articulate man, his wider profile remains relatively
Osaka. Belgium. modest.
After looking assured in the first two Earlier, Stefanos Tsitsipas advanced to the
rounds after her eight-week hiatus, Osaka men’s third round as he avenged last month’s Japan’s Naomi Osaka There is no getting away from the fact that sprints
made a dreadful start under the centre court Wimbledon loss to Frances Tiafoe. leaves the court after remain the biggest draw and World Athletics and the
roof at a rain-hit Ariake Tennis Park and being beaten by Czech
The Greek third seed downed American Republic’s Marketa International Olympic Committee must have been
never recovered. Tiafoe 6-3, 6-4 in the opening match of the Vondrousova in their rubbing their hands together in glee at the
“I’ve taken long breaks before and I’ve day as all play on outside courts was delayed Tokyo 2020 Olympic emergence of Sha’Carri Richardson.
managed to do well. I’m not saying that I did an hour by morning drizzle. Games women’s Flamboyant, confident, outspoken
bad right now, but I do know that my Tsitsipas, who is also entered in mixed singles third round on social media and hugely
expectations were a lot higher,” she said. doubles with Sakkari, will play France’s Ugo tennis match at the talented, the 21-year-old American
“I feel like my attitude wasn’t that great Humbert or Miomir Kecmanovic of Serbia Ariake Tennis Park blew through the sport this year in
because I don’t really know how to cope with for a spot in the quarterfinals. yesterday. – AFPPIX a whirlwind of blue hair and nails
that pressure so that’s the best that I could and looked set to be the focus of a
have done in this situation.” Having lost to Tiafoe in the opening round thousand camera lenses in Tokyo,
at Wimbledon, Tsitsipas ensured there was only to incur a ban for smoking
Osaka dropped serve in the opening no repeat as a single break in each set marijuana during the US trials last
game and was broken twice more as the enabled him to wrap up victory in 77 month.
42nd-ranked Vondrousova raced away with minutes. – AFP Also watching from home in
the States will be the reigning
100m world champion Christian
Coleman, banned for 18 months
after missing three drugs tests.
The good news for the TV
companies and their potential
audiences is that there will still be
plenty of other great athletes on the
start line in Tokyo.
Trayvon Bromell looks a hot favourite to take
the 100m title back to America for the first time
since 2004, while compatriot Noah Lyles is
hoping to displace Bolt in the 200m.
Norway’s Karsten Warholm runs every 400m

hurdles race as if he is trying to break the world record
and last month he finally did. I

“Who are the next people who can step into that
category (of Bolt? (Pole vualter) Mondo Duplantis has
rock star quality, if you look at performances of Karsten
Warholm, Rai Benjamin (both 400m hurdles),” Coe said,
also naming the two women’s 400m hurdles favourites. –
Reuters

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