The Sun 04122025

Malaysian Paperwww.thesun.my RM1.00 PER COPYRM1THURSDAYDEC 4, 2025SCAN MENo. 8993 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195) The Bill outlines child-sensitive reporting channels and strict confidentiality rules to help young victims speak up safely (rehearsed pic for illustration only). – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUNMove aimed at facilitating monitoring of ownership, vaccination records, sterilisation and management of strays.Digital registration system with microchipping for dogs mulled Experts laud move as timely measure to address long-overlooked scourge, while highlighting importance of inclusive protection for adults trapped in toxic workplaces.Report on—page 4Former PM senior political secretary, businessman to be chargedInvestigation into duo over graft conducted professionally and in accordance to SOP: MACC chief commissionerReport on—page 5Anti-BullyingBill hailedTrio take oath of office to continue roles in portfolios deemed central to domestic, religious and education policies.Three key members of Cabinet sworn in as senators for second term Report on—page 3Report on—page 2Wet weather Wet weather voyagers voyagers Easy methods to keep your home pest-free. Easy methods to keep your home pest-free. – P22 p23 Christmas decor razzel dazzel at local malls p24 1 Utama launches glass recycling campaign p25 Beauty hub cum haircare salon goes premiumTHURSDAY | DEC 4, 2025EditorialT: 03-7784 6688 F: 03-7785 2625 E: [email protected] AdvertisingT: 03-7784 8888 E: [email protected] SCAN MEWEEKLYFOCUSMONDAYTechnology and social mediaTUESDAYFamily and parentingWEDNESDAY Fashion and beautyTHURSDAY Homeand livingFRIDAYTravel and leisureSATURDAY Food and beverage– 123RFPIC

THURSDAY | DEC 4, 20252King named patron of Scouts associationKUALA LUMPUR: His Majesty the King of Malaysia Sultan Ibrahim was named patron of the Scouts Association of Malaysia yesterday. The announcement was made when His Majesty received a courtesy call from National Chief Scout Mejar-Jen (Rtd) Prof Datuk Dr Mohd Zin Bidin at the Dewan Sri Bendahara in Istana Negara. During the audience, Sultan Ibrahim also accepted the First Class Bintang Semangat Padi Emas medal from the association. Also present were National Scout Council deputy president Datuk Ahmad Shaziy Ismail Bakti, vice-president Datuk Zamani Tambichek and treasurer Tan Sri Datuk Abdullah Taib. The appointment of the King as patron of the association aligns with Part II, Section 1, Article 11(1) of the Policy, Organisation and Rules 2010, read together with Act 784 or the Scouts Association of Malaysia Act 1968 (revised 2016). – BernamaSultan Ibrahim being presented with a commemorative gift by the Scouts Association of Malaysia. – BERNAMAPIC‘Narrow scope risks leaving out university students, working adults’PETALING JAYA: As Malaysia moves to enact its first anti-bullying Act amid growing alarm over violence in schools, a child clinical psychologist has urged lawmakers not to overlook the fact that bullying stretches beyond the classroom.Psychology centre CPC International managing director and child clinical psychologist Dr Noor Aishah Rosli said the Anti-Bullying Bill 2025, tabled in the Dewan Rakyat on Dec 1, marks a historic step towards safeguarding young Malaysians. However, she said its narrow scope risks leaving university students and working adults without legal protection. “Bullying (does not only apply to) those under 18. Anyone could (engage in) bullying and anyone could be bullied,” she said, adding that leaving out older students and employees would blunt the purpose of the Bill. She praised its psychological framing, adding that its definition of bullying recognises cognitive, emotional, physical and social harm, as well as cyberbullying. She also said the Bill’s recognition of how bullying affects thoughts, emotions and behaviour is crucial for understanding psychological harm. She also expressed belief that a stronger emphasis on early detection and preventive action is needed in schools. “Institutions must be guided to identify signs that a student is being bullied.” Noor Aishah also said teachers and school communities must be trained to spot students who may be at risk of becoming bullies, as these individuals need early behavioural support from counsellors and psychologists. One of her biggest concerns is the narrow range of institutions covered under the draft law. “Currently, the Anti-Bullying Bill 2025 only applies to institutions under the Education Act 1976, Mara institutions, Defence Ministry educational bodies and institutions covered by the Child Act 2001. “Missing from the list are universities, private colleges and workplaces – environments in which bullying is known to persist, often unreported and unchecked.” She said restricting protections to certain age groups or sectors would be a missed opportunity. “This is our first Anti-Bullying Act. Why not get everything right in one discussion? Surely, we don’t want to create two separate Acts.” She added that the Bill’s definition of bullying does not specify any age limit, which strengthens the case for wider coverage. Noor Aishah said if the intention is to protect only minors, the government must say so clearly, adding that otherwise, the law should reflect the reality that bullying cuts across all ages and institutions. – By Kirtinee RameshExperts laud anti-bullying BillPETALING JAYA: Experts have hailed Malaysia’s first-ever anti-bullying Bill as an overdue step in tackling a problem long swept under the carpet, but warn it must not overlook adults trapped in toxic, abusive workplaces. Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia senior lecturer and licensed counsellor Dr Farhana Sabri said the Anti-Bullying Bill 2025 represents a major shift in national policy, particularly in how it recognises bullying beyond physical aggression. “For the first time, Malaysia clearly defines bullying to include psychological and social harm such as humiliation, exclusion, discrimination and online harassment, all recognised under Section 3(2).” She added that the new definition matches what counsellors see daily, with many children and teenagers experiencing “silent psychological erosion” long before the behaviour is even labelled as bullying under existing norms. She also described the Bill as bold for mandating that all educational institutions provide counselling and psychosocial support under Section 7(1)(d). Farhana said making emotional support a legal requirement represents an acknowledgement that victims need trained responders, not just disciplinary action. “It recognises that the emotional consequences of bullying require qualified responders, not simply disciplinary action,” she said, adding that all counsellors must now be registered and licensed under the Malaysian Board of Counsellors to ensure competency and ethical accountability. The Bill also outlines child-sensitive reporting channels and strict confidentiality rules to help young victims speak up safely. She also welcomed the widened powers of the proposed Anti-Bullying Tribunal, which oProtection clearly defined to include psychological and social harm: AcademicŰ BY KIRTINEE RAMESH [email protected] Proposed text clears Lower HouseKUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia yesterday made history when the Dewan Rakyat passed the Anti-Bullying Bill 2025 towards making schools safer. The Bill, which aims to provide for a mechanism to address complaints, prevent and manage bullying cases in educational institutions and other institutions, was passed with a majority of votes in favour. It also provides for the establishment of an Anti-Bullying Tribunal, which acts as a body with civil jurisdiction to hear and decide complaints related to bullying cases. When winding up debate on the Bill, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said said for now, the law will apply to those aged 18 and below.“I stand here (making) a commitment, if God permits, we will (observe) the effectiveness of this Bill for those aged 18 and below, and we will (conduct studies) for those aged 18 and above for 2026.“ She said through the Bill, the tribunal could issue an order for the respondent or for the child respondent, parent or guardian, to pay compensation or damages not exceeding RM250,000 for any loss or damage suffered by the victim as a result of bullying. She added that the approach is preventive in nature because responsibility for the behaviour of children cannot be placed entirely on schools or teachers. “If parents know that they also have to pay compensation for irresponsible behaviour, I see this as a possibility of being seen as prevention.“ – Bernamamay order formal apologies, deletion of harmful online content, counselling for parents or guardians and compensation of up to RM250,000. “These are mental-health-informed solutions that prioritise mending, accountability and long-term behavioural change over simple punishment.” However, she cautioned that the Bill’s definition of “victim” remains narrowly focused on children, specifically students of any age in educational institutions and minors in protective homes, as outlined in Section 2. “This approach does not apply to adult workers who are subjected to workplace bullying, power-based harassment and psychological intimidation.” She said within her counselling practice, many employees suffer depression, anxiety and burnout due to toxic work environments, adding that limiting protection to those in school risks sending the message that support for victims “expires” in adulthood. Farhana also said the Bill lays a strong foundation for protecting child and youth mental health, but Malaysia needs a parallel mechanism, potentially under occupational safety regulations, to address psychological harm throughout a person’s life. “If we view this Bill as the first pillar of a larger societal commitment, we are genuinely advancing toward a Malaysia in which dignity, safety and emotional wellbeing are protected at all stages of life.” Parent Action Group for Education chairman Datin Noor Azimah Abdul Rahim echoed the Bill’s importance, saying it reframes bullying, including cyberbullying and institutional negligence, as a matter of legal responsibility rather than just a school-level disciplinary issue. She also said the emphasis of the Bill on prevention, restorative approaches and institutional accountability aligns with global best practices on child protection and human rights. However, she said implementation would make or break the law, adding that without proper training, resources and enforcement, the Bill risks becoming “symbolic rather than effective”. “The roots of bullying, social norms, power dynamics, peer pressure, mental-health issues and institutional complacency run deep.” She said government agencies, schools, civil society, parents and communities must see the Bill as part of a long-term movement for cultural change.

THURSDAY | DEC 4, 20253PETALING JAYA: Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz has been appointed chairman of the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (Mida), marking a new chapter for the authority as key Unity government senators begin their second term. Tengku Zafrul transitions from the Cabinet to the boardroom, assuming the Mida chairmanship for a two-year term starting yesterday. The appointment, approved by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, coincides with the conclusion of Tengku Zafrul’s threeyear tenure as minister of Investment, Trade and Industry. “Besides leading Mida, Tengku Zafrul will be assigned several additional responsibilities that are currently being finalised and will be announced by the prime minister in due course,” the Prime Minister’s Office said in a statement yesterday. His ministerial role cannot continue, as his second term as a senator – the maximum allowed under the Federal Constitution – has expired. While Tengku Zafrul exits the Cabinet stage, three other key figures in the Unity government are reaffirming their positions. Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir and Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar were sworn in for their second term as senators at the Dewan Negara yesterday. The ceremony, presided over by Dewan Negara President Datuk Awang Bemee Awang Ali Basah, signalled the continuation of their pivotal roles in domestic, religious and education portfolios. The reappointments, effective today, allow the three to continue advancing policies aligned with the Malaysia Madani vision, ensuring continuity. The prime minister also confirmed that the full list of ministers and deputy ministers of the Madani government will be announced in due course, following careful, people-centric deliberation. The swearing-in of Saifuddin, Zambry, and Mohd Na’im comes exactly three years after their first appointment to the Cabinet in December 2022, shortly after the formation of the Unity government following the 15th general election. Unlike Tengku Zafrul, their senatorship permits them to maintain ministerial responsibilities, highlighting a mix of continuity and transition within the Cabinet as the administration navigates ongoing reshuffles. Meanwhile, the portfolio of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development, previously held by Datuk Ewon Benedick, is temporarily under the responsibility of Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi. Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan is overseeing the Economy portfolio, while Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Seri Johari Ghani manages the Natural Resources and Environment Sustainability Ministry.Tengku Zafrul exits Cabinet, heads investment board oPM confirms appointment as key ministers sworn in for continued service under Unity governmentPower dynamics shape elected Sabah govt: AnalystsPETALING JAYA: Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor’s decision to appoint Barisan Nasional (BN) and Pakatan Harapan (PH) representatives into his new state Cabinet is driven by the need to consolidate power at home while maintaining a functional relationship with Putrajaya, analysts say. With federal-state relations playing an outsized role in Sabah’s development, maintaining goodwill with Putrajaya is seen as crucial to avoid policy gridlock or delays in federal allocations. According to Singapore Institute of International Affairs senior fellow Dr Oh Ei Sun, Hajiji, who leads the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) coalition, still requires the backing of BN and PH to strengthen his administration following the hung Sabah State Assembly outcome after the 17th Sabah election. “I think at the end of the day, numbers matter. For Hajiji, the short-term stability of his government secured through a super-majority support in the state assembly outweighs longer-term calls for a Sabahan-only administration,” Oh told theSun via WhatsApp. “The seven seats contributed by PH (one) and BN (six) help shore up that stability. There would also have been significant pressure from the federal level. “For example, PKR secretary-general Datuk Fuziah Salleh pre-emptively announcing PH’s participation in the new state government placed additional weight on that decision,“ he added. Universiti Malaya socio-political analyst Prof Datuk Dr Awang Azman Awang Pawi echoed this view, saying GRS continues to rely on BN and PH as essential partners. “BN and PH form the basic pillars of cooperation with the federal government. If relations turn cold, it would complicate the Hajiji administration’s ability to negotiate with Putrajaya,” he said. Both analysts noted that the inclusion of national coalition leaders is less about political concession and more about ensuring the new Sabah government can function without the instability that typically plagues slim majorities. Commenting on the extent to which Sabah can secure the autonomy it demands under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), Oh cautioned that the path remains long and complex. “The push for Sabah autonomy is a long and torturous journey, involving a blend of negotiations and confrontations from both federal and state sides. Some view the presence of Cabinet members from national parties negatively, interpreting it as a sign the state government cannot adequately stand up for Sabah in dealings with the federal administration. Others see it positively, believing such leaders who are Sabahans themselves can act as bridges between the state and federal levels. Awang Azman meanwhile added that cooperation with Putrajaya remains a nonnegotiable component of Sabah’s autonomy agenda. “Sabah needs strong cooperation with the federal government to ensure its demands are not impeded. Hajiji’s approach, retaining BN and PH leaders in the state Cabinet, signals goodwill and helps maintain smooth federal-state ties without triggering political controversy.” Apart from BN and PH, Hajiji also included the previous PH component party, Upko, in his Cabinet. The party president Datuk Ewon Benedick was appointed as the deputy chief minister III who will also act as the state Industrial, Entrepreneur and Transport minister. Ewon was previously the federal Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development minister but relinquished his post prior to the Sabah state election, citing a matter of principle over the federal government’s handling of Sabah’s 40% revenue entitlement claim.600 wardens to strengthen hostel managementPETALING JAYA: In a major move to strengthen hostel management, the Education Ministry will appoint 600 assistant wardens next year. Its deputy minister Wong Kah Woh told the Dewan Rakyat yesterday that the extra 600 assistant wardens will ensure that the recruitments support efforts to reduce the workload of wardens appointed from among teachers and non-teaching staff. He said only candidates who meet standardised eligibility criteria, including being Malaysian citizens and having no criminal record, will be recruited under the initiative. He said hostel wardens play a vital role not only in ensuring safety, but also in shaping students’ character and discipline. Their appointment, he added, must align with the function of hostels as comprehensive educational institutions. “Under this principle, the ministry continues to prioritise the appointment of teachers as wardens, based on the concept of in loco parentis, in which teachers act in the role of parents in school hostels. “The concept emphasises the responsibility of wardens to safeguard students’ welfare, safety, education and discipline, while guiding them in character formation and instilling moral values,” Wong said. He emphasised that having teachers serve as wardens also strengthens the confidence of students and parents in school management. To ease the workload of teachers serving as wardens, the ministry expanded the appointment of full-time wardens to include non-teaching staff from Grade 1 and above from 2019. “As of Sept 30 there are 10,214 wardens nationwide, comprising 9,428 teachers and 786 non-teaching staff. “In 2022 the ministry increased warden allowances and introduced privileges for teacher-wardens, including minimal co-curricular involvement, exemption from being class teachers and exemption from teaching the first period.” Addressing concerns about workload, Wong highlighted several improvements introduced since 2019, including adjustments to allowances in 2022, when the chief warden allowance was raised from RM280 to RM350 and the warden allowance from RM240 to RM300. He also said the ministry is aware of increasing hostel enrolment each year and has been implementing continuous improvements in warden welfare and staffing since 2019. “In 2022, qualification requirements for wardens were revised – previously one warden was appointed for every 50 students. The updated criteria now provide three wardens for one to 30 students, four for 51 to 100 students, four for 101 to 150 students and so on.” Wong stressed that this forms part of ongoing efforts to improve safety and reduce the burden on existing wardens. He added that creating a dedicated warden post requires thorough study as it involves restructuring staffing and depends on the consideration of central agencies. “For now, the ministry maintains the in loco parentis approach, which remains relevant to current needs.” Wong said teachers appointed as wardens are trained and understand what is required to meet students’ needs. Ű BY HARITH KAMAL [email protected]Ű BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI [email protected]Ű BY IKHWAN ZULKAFLEE [email protected] taking the oath of office during the swearing-in ceremony at the Dewan Negara yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC

THURSDAY | DEC 4, 20254PETALING JAYA: Economists say repayment issues under the National Higher Education Fund Corporation are driven by financial strain on low and middle-income households and borrowers who deliberately delay or avoid instalments despite having the means to repay. Universiti Teknologi Mara economist Dr Idham Razak said borrowers in the low and lower-middle-income brackets face the greatest strain, as rising essential expenses outpace wage growth. “In the context of rising living costs, the low-income and lower-middle-income groups are the most pressured to make repayments because a large portion of their income is used for basic needs, such as food, rent, transport and monthly commitments. “Factors such as inflation, increasing housing costs and family commitments further narrow their financial space, causing repayments to be delayed. “The middle-income group often bear a heavier repayment burden compared with the B40 or highincome groups. This is because they are in a ‘policy gap’ in which their income appears sufficient, but their actual commitments result in very limited disposable income.” He said high-income defaulters usually fail to pay because of behaviour rather than financial limitations. “The phenomenon of high-income borrowers who still fail to repay despite having financial capability usually stems from behavioural factors Ű BY FAIZ RUZMAN [email protected] approaches on loans across various income groupsPETALING JAYA: A survey conducted by theSun among National Higher Education Fund Corporation borrowers showed sharp contrasts in how different income groups manage their repayment obligations. Aqilah, 29, from Setapak and earning below RM2,400 a month, said she has completed her loan but struggled throughout the repayment period due to her low salary. “It was difficult to commit to the instalments every month. By the time I finished budgeting for rent, transport and basic expenses, there was not much left. “To me, maybe the system is fair. But with my salary level, even small commitments feel heavy. I just hope there can be more support for borrowers such as us.” The repayment experiences ofthose earning between RM2,500 and RM5,000 a month differed by their monthly commitments. Izzuddin Helmi, 26, from Bandar Baharu in Kedah said he has settled his loan but faced pressure balancing instalments with family responsibilities. “I have had to work around my family commitments.” He viewed the repayment structure as fair because the monthly amount did not burden him, but urged companies to offer voluntary payroll deductions. “More companies should give the option to deduct (the repayments) directly from wages, like Tabung Haji contributions.” Another Setapak-based borrower, Hafiz, 37, said he previously fell behind on payments before rescheduling his loan with the corporation. Another low/middle income borrower from Pengerang in Johor, a 25-year-old, who requested to be identified only as “Dop”, said the cost of living was his biggest challenge. “I am still paying, but living costs make it difficult some months. Inflation sometimes makes me think twice about which priority I should commit to first financially. “But I would try to prioritise repayments. If I am late, the amount will snowball and get harder to manage. “I believe the repayment system is fair, but the interests can be a little burdening.” Gary, 27, from Kuching in Sarawak, said he has been paying through auto-deduction and has “no issues keeping up” with his instalments. “I think it is easier for me because I still live with my parents, so my monthly commitments are very low. That gives me room to set aside part of my salary for repayments every month without feeling pressured.” A 28-year-old from Kuala Lumpur, who earns above RM8,000 a month, said he has been consistently repaying his loan since entering the workforce. “I have been paying since my first paycheck, and paid more than the required amount each month. “I should be able to settle everything within the next two years,” said the borrower, who requested anonymity. He also said enforcement should be firmer. “The corporation should impose forced repayment using Employees Provident Fund if people cannot or refuse to pay on time. “It is one of the things the government could look into to reduce high-income defaulters.” – BY FAIZ RUZMANGovt mulls microchipping dogs to manage straysPETALING JAYA: The Housing and Local Government Ministry is exploring the introduction of a digital registration system with microchipping for dogs as part of ongoing efforts to manage the country’s stray population and reduce public safety risks. Deputy minister Aiman Athirah Sabu said while Malaysia has laws governing dog ownership and welfare, including the Local Authority Dog Licensing By-laws and the Animal Welfare Act 2015, the government is looking to leverage technology to improve accountability.“Local authorities enforce dog licensing and manage stray dogs through capture, reclamation, adoption and NGO-led programmes under the trap, reclaim, rehome, dispose (TRRD) framework. “However, we are studying a microchip-based registration system to monitor ownership, vaccination records, sterilisation and overall welfare,” she said at the Dewan Negara yesterday. She was responding to Senator Che Alias Hamid, who had asked if the government plans to make microchipping mandatory and give local authorities clear powers to manage and capture stray dogs to reduce attacks. She acknowledged that Malaysia lacks a comprehensive framework Aiman Athirah pointed out challenges posed by NGOs and individuals who defend stray dogs, particularly in open spaces. – SUNPICoSystem being studied to monitor ownership, vaccination records, sterilisation and overall welfare of owned pets: Deputy ministerŰ BY HARITH KAMAL [email protected] to the United Kingdom, where all dogs over eight weeks old must be microchipped to allow authorities to trace ownership. Highlighting the scale of the problem, she noted that in 2024, local authorities received 37,535 complaints about stray dogs, conducted operations costing RM15,815 and captured 66,264 dogs. Of these, 19,354 dogs were reclaimed by their owners or adopted through the ministry’s Adopt-a-Dog programme. Aiman Athirah also pointed out challenges posed by NGOs and individuals who defend stray dogs, particularly in open spaces, such as at universities. She emphasised that while there are no penalties for individuals who protect strays, there is an urgent need for cooperation with local authorities to ensure humane handling under the TRRD framework. In June, theSun reported that the issue has drawn attention from the Veterinary Services Department, which has urged pet owners to microchip their animals as a key step to address the stray dog problem and protect domestic pets. As of May, more than 25,800 pets nationwide have been microchipped. While all pets in Malaysia, including dogs and cats, are legally required to be identified and registered, microchipping remains the standard method of identification.Higher Education Fund repayment issues due to financial strain, bad attituderather than economic constraints. “Some postpone repayment due to a lack of awareness about social responsibility, not viewing it as an urgent commitment or assuming no strict action would be taken.” Echoing a similar perspective, Universiti Putra Malaysia Putra Business School senior lecturer Assoc Prof Dr Ida Md Yasin said repayment outcomes cannot be judged solely by income groups and are shaped as much by personal behaviour as financial constraints. “There are two types of borrowers. The first are those who understand they took a loan and know they must repay it. “The second are those who simply do not want to pay and will try to avoid it as much as possible. “Sometimes, repayment issues are not solely about life circumstances, but also about attitude. There are people who, even if they have the means, still do not want to pay.” She said classifying repayment struggles based on B40, M40 or T20 categories is often misleading because household circumstances vary widely. “It is difficult to categorise by income group because every family has different commitments. Someone in the B40 category but living alone may be perfectly comfortable. “But someone in M40 earning RM8,000 with young children in school, childcare costs and various other expenses would naturally have far higher financial pressure. So, the burden depends on income and expenditure.” She said the corporation’s repayment structure is “far more lenient than banks” and the policy debate should consider whether enforcement should remain soft or become more stringent. “If a bank loan is not repaid, a person could be declared bankrupt and their financial future is destroyed. The corporation does not go to that extent. “Banks have collateral and can seize houses or assets if instalments are not paid. The corporation has no such mechanism. What they can do is continue to ask borrowers to repay. If many do not repay, the fund becomes smaller and future students would not be able to receive financing.” Ida added that the debate ultimately ties to a larger national question about how Malaysia finances higher education. “The fund is just a tool to provide educational loans at low interest. In Germany, higher education is free not only for citizens, but also for foreigners. In Malaysia, education is free only up to secondary school. “If the country has the capacity and can manage its finances well, free higher education is not impossible,” she said. Higher Education Deputy Minister Datuk Mustapha Sakmud on Monday revealed to Parliament that borrowers across all income groups continue to accumulate significant outstanding debt to the corporation. The outstanding amount includes RM257.56 million owed by households earning above RM8,000 and RM10.23 billion among Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah-recipient families. He added that repayment exemptions remain limited to B40 and M40 public university graduates.

THURSDAY | DEC 4, 20255Cadet death case taken over by Bukit Aman crime unitJOHOR BAHRU: An investigation into a case involving Universiti Teknologi Malaysia Reserve Officer Training Unit cadet officer Syamsul Haris Shamsudin has been taken over by Bukit Aman. Johor police chief Datuk Ab Rahaman Arsad said the case is under the Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department Classified Crime Investigation Unit, and is no longer under the jurisdiction of state police. “In terms of the investigation process and next steps, I cannot provide complete details because this matter is under the responsibility of Bukit Aman,” he said at a press conference yesterday. He was commenting on a statement by the Attorney-General’s Chambers (AGC) on Tuesday, which ordered the death of Syamsul Haris to be classified under Section 302 of the Penal Code for further investigation by police. The AGC said the decision was made after hearing a briefing on the results of police investigation into Syamsul Haris’ death. Syamsul Haris, 22, died at the Kota Tinggi Hospital on July 28 after undergoing training at the Army Combat Training Centre in Ulu Tiram. The case was previously classified as sudden death. The Shah Alam High Court later allowed the deceased’s family’s application for an exhumation and second autopsy. The body of Syamsul Haris, that was buried on July 29 at the Kampung Riching Ulu Muslim Cemetery in Semenyih, was examined a second time at the Kuala Lumpur Hospital on Aug 30 before his remains were reburied the same day. The university said it has taken note of the AGC’s decision and stressed its commitment to provide full cooperation to police and the Armed Forces in further investigations. It also stressed that the university would not protect any individual found to be involved. “Universiti Teknologi Malaysia always adheres to the principles of transparency and the rule of law, and leaves it entirely to authorities to complete the investigation to ensure justice is served.“ – BernamaScientist duped of RM466,000GEORGE TOWN: A scientist at a private company here lost RM466,078 in September after falling victim to an online investment scam known as Digital RealtyV. Penang police chief Datuk Azizee Ismail said the 26-year-old man lodged a report at the Southwest district police headquarters Commercial Crime Investigation Division on Monday. He said the victim claimed to have met an individual in early September through the Xiao Hong Shu app, after which he was offered a foreign exchange trading investment that promised high returns within a short period based on the capital invested. “The victim was instructed to download the Digital RealtyV app to register as a member and start investing. “On Oct 6, he made his first payment of RM4,500 into an individual’s account and received a return of RM4,754 the same day.” Convinced by the investment, the victim increased his capital, transferring RM466,078.51 through 13 transactions to seven bank accounts between Oct 6 and Nov 17. The victim realised he had been scammed when he was unable to withdraw his profits from the app. Further investigations are underway under Section 420 of the Penal Code for cheating. – BernamaPolice still probing disappearance of activist, pastorKUALA LUMPUR: Police have never stopped probing the disappearance of activist Amri Che Mat and pastor Raymond Koh, said Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail. He said investigations into both high-profile cases are ongoing, in line with the court’s decision requesting police to continue investigative action. “Police investigation has never been halted. Police have never closed these cases,” he said at a press conference on Tuesday. Commenting on the court’s decision ordering police to bring Koh before the public, as well as the implication of failing to do so, he said the government acknowledges the decision, including the order to pay RM10,000 per day if the directive is not complied with. He said the issue of the payment amount and the implication of payment to Amri’s family and Koh’s family have been acknowledged and are being addressed through the proper channels. “The Attorney-General’s Chambers has filed an appeal because it involves huge financial implications. While we respect the court’s decision, we will let the appeal process take its course.” Amri was reported missing on Nov 24, 2016 while Koh’s disappearence was reported on Feb 13, 2017. On Nov 5, the court ordered the government to pay total damages of RM3,264,457.52, along with costs and interest, to Amri’s wife Norhayati Mohd Ariffin while the government was ordered to pay over RM37 million to Koh’s wife Susanna Liew. The decision was made after the court allowed the lawsuits filed by the two women against the government and police regarding the disappearances of their husbands. Liew has applied for her legal firm Jerald Gomez and Associates to be appointed as trustee to receive the more than RM31 million in damages awarded by the High Court. The matter was conveyed by lawyer Datuk Jerald Gomez, representing Liew, during case management proceedings before High Court Judge Datuk Su Tiang Joo on Tuesday, which was also attended by Senior Federal Counsel Nurul Farhana Khalid, representing the government and police. The judge then fixed Dec 8 for the hearing of the application. Earlier, Nurul Farhana informed the court that she required time to file an affidavit in reply as she had only recently received the notice of application. On Nov 5, Su allowed the suit filed by Liew and ordered the government and police to deposit the funds into a trustee account until Koh’s whereabouts were identified or revealed. The sum involves general damages of RM10,000 a day from Feb 13, 2017 until his whereabouts are disclosed, as well as RM1 million in damages and RM1 million in exemplary damages. In the application filed by Liew on Nov 28, the applicant also sought for two financial institutions, PB Trustee Services Berhad and Amanah Raya Berhad, to be appointed as trustees should the court decline to appoint the legal firm as trustee. – BernamaBusinessman, ex-political secretary to be chargedPETALING JAYA: The prime minister’s former senior political secretary Datuk Seri Shamsul Iskandar Mohd Akin and businessman Albert Tei are set to face charges at the Kuala Lumpur Sessions Court today. Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki said an investigation into the two individuals, both implicated following a report by a news portal, has been completed. Both are expected to face five charges under the MACC Act 2009. They will face an additional four charges at the Shah Alam Sessions Court tomorrow. Azam (centre) said the case was classified as one of public interest due to its political implications and wide media coverage. – BERNAMAPICoGraft investigation conducted transparently and in accordance to SOP, says MACC chiefŰ BY HARITH KAMAL [email protected] said the case, which also involves a third individual, Sofia Rini, was classified as one of public interest due to its political implications and wide media coverage. He added that the investigation was carried out swiftly and professionally. “This case involves senior political figures and has received significant attention. We opened the investigation on Nov 26 and directed our officers to complete it as quickly as possible.” The charges against Shamsul Iskandar include receiving bribes under Section 17(a) of the Act while Tei faces charges of giving bribes under Section 17(b) of the same Act. A lawyer connected to the case has been classified as a witness after refusing to cooperate with investigators, said Azam. He also addressed claims from Tei’s family regarding procedural irregularities during the investigation. “The allegations that no search list was provided during the raid are incorrect. “Our officers complied with SOPs and handed the full list of seized items to Tei,” he said, dismissing reports that one of his officers had brandished a firearm during the operation. He also clarified MACC’s legal authority in summoning witnesses, including lawyers, for recorded statements. “Section 46 of the Act, which concerns lawyer-client confidentiality, was not violated. “We requested only relevant evidence, not confidential legal advice. All procedures were in accordance with the law.” Regarding frozen assets, Azam added that about RM600,000 has been seized as part of the investigation. He also said any party dissatisfied with MACC’s actions has the right to bring the matter to court. MACC has recorded statements from 32 witnesses, in addition to the three individuals arrested, he said, emphasising the commission’s adherence to due process. He reiterated that the investigation was conducted transparently and all legal procedures and SOPs were followed. The probe was initiated following a report alleging that Shamsul Iskandar had received bribes while Tei was involved in giving them. The case prompted Shamsul Iskandar to resign as the prime minister’s senior political secretary.

THURSDAY | DEC 4, 20256/thesuntelegramFOLLOW ON TELEGRAMmRAM/Malaysian PaperOctogenarian lawyer obtains doctorate GEORGE TOWN: Age has not been an obstacle for Datuk Dr G. Rethinasamy, 86, to secure his doctorate, even after a legal career spanning half a century. The octogenarian received his doctorate at the Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) 63rd convocation ceremony on Tuesday. Rethinasamy, who runs his own law firm in Butterworth, said he continues to receive clients and provide assistance to the local community, especially those in the low-income group. He added that he has an open-door policy in welcoming clients without prior appointments and does not impose payments for initial consultation sessions, a work principle that he has held on to for decades, especially when dealing with clients facing challenges in life. “If I’m confident in helping solve their problems, then I would open a file. Many of them are people in need, so I settle the work first before considering taking a token payment,” he told Bernama after receiving his scroll at the ceremony. He recalled how he had to end his Form Six studies after seven months when his father lost his job. The situation forced him to try to support his family by entering the nursing field in 1959. He served at several hospitals before furthering his studies at Lincoln’s Inn in the United Kingdom as he had a deep interest in law. Rethinasamy later set up his own firm in 1975 upon his return to the country and steadily carved out a Rethinasamy dressed to the nines at the convocation ceremony, certification in hand. – PIC COURTESY OF USMoAchievement feather in cap on top of 50-year legal careerIndian community at home in SabahKOTA KINABALU: Despite being small in number, the Indian community in Sabah stands as a testament to resilience and the ability to thrive within a harmonious, multicultural society, which is the cornerstone of the state’s identity. Their presence in the “Land Below the Wind” goes beyond strengthening unity; it adds a new thread to the rich tapestry of Sabah culture, which is home to more than 30 ethnicities and hundreds of sub-groups, such as the Kadazan, Dusun, Murut, Rungus and Bajau. For Indians who have called Sabah home for three decades, the state is more than just a place to earn a living or build a career. Hindu Sangam Sabah chairman Datuk Dr G. Mohan said many from the community have built lives and families with locals, weaving together two distinct traditions and cultures for their children. “Sabah is unique. Its people are friendly, hospitable and possess a profound level of tolerance. “I see the ‘Truly Asia’ concept alive and well here. This state is the finest model of racial harmony and unity we have.” He said in 1990 when he first reported for duty as a medical officer, he was welcomed with a warmth that far exceeded any expectation. “I never anticipated being posted to Sabah. I was serving at the Muar Hospital in my home state of Johor. “I thought I would only be here for six months to a year. “Now, I hardly even notice that I have been living in Sabah for nearly three decades.” His first placement was at the Duchess of Kent Hospital in Sandakan, where, as fate would have it, he met Vina, a Dusun nurse from Ranau, who later became his wife. The couple married in 2004 and have been blessed with three children. Mohan, who is also Persatuan Peranakan Masyarakat India Sabah president, said his goal is to forge a powerful, unified body that represents the generation of children born from unions between the Indian community from Peninsular Malaysia and Sabahans. Meanwhile, for 60-year-old retiree Grace Subramaniam, Sabah has held a special place in her heart from the very moment she was posted as a teacher to the interior of Keningau 29 years ago. “They brought us food. They brought coffee, boiled yams. “They showed us such affection and care. Ponsikou(thank you), Sabahans. I love the people of Sabah,” said the Perak native, whose love for the state is a family affair, with her two children, now in their 30s, having also grown up there. Similarly, R. Shanmuga Nathan, 61, affectionately known as Shan, initially planned his stay in Sabah to be temporary, expecting to return to Peninsular Malaysia after a three-year posting. The former senior lecturer of the Gaya Teachers’ Education Institute, also from Perak, said however the warmth of the local community and a deepening sense of belonging year after year compelled him and his family to make a life-changing decision to put down roots in Sabah. “All three of my children were born here and proudly call Sabah their home.” In his retirement, Shan has channelled his passion for local delicacies such as hinava and kuih cincin into an Indian restaurant that has become a cultural crossroads. It draws a diverse clientele, including visitors from the Peninsular Malaysia who often remark on their admiration for the warmth of the Sabahans. – Bernamacareer spanning half a century serving the public. Besides being a lawyer, he is also involved in community building, being an early developer of a low-cost housing project in Penang. The project included the construction of 265 apartment units in Tasek Gelugor from 1989 to 1990 at a sale price of under RM50,000 per unit. The father of four examined the relationship between planning authorities and housing developers. He said the planning processes had very much influenced the cost of constructing the affordable housing project. He also shared his secret to being active at 86 years, singling out daily exercise as well as tending to stray cats around his residence every day. A total of 9,347 graduates; 865 PhD graduates, 3,501 Masters graduates, 4,934 Bachelor’s degree graduates, 47 nursing diploma graduates and an honorary degree recipient received their scrolls at the ceremony, held from Nov 25 to Tuesday.

THURSDAY | DEC 4, 20257Frustration in Indonesia as flood survivors await aidTUKKA: Officials in Indonesia and Sri Lanka battled yesterday to reach survivors of flooding in remote regions as the toll in the disaster that hit four countries topped 1,300. In Indonesia, there is growing frustration among survivors over the pace of the rescue effort and aid delivery. Humanitarian groups said the scale of the challenge was almost unprecedented even for a country that has faced many natural disasters. Monsoon rains paired with two rare tropical storm systems dumped record deluges across Sri Lanka, parts of Sumatra, southern Thailand and northern Malaysia last week. In Indonesia, the toll hit 753 yesterday and the number of missing also increased to 650. The rising figures reflect information trickling in as many A resident of Palembayan district in West Sumatra is overwhelmed by sorrow while looking for his missing wife. – REUTERSPICo‘Scale of challenge unprecedented’India ready to change security app order after outcryNEW DELHI: India is willing to amend an order requiring smartphone makers to pre-instal a cybersecurity app, the telecoms minister said yesterday, signalling a softening government stance following a backlash over surveillance fears. Earlier in the day, the main opposition party took the government to task over the issue, while editorials joined privacy advocates in denouncing the move. The government is also likely to find itself at odds with phone manufacturers. “We are ready to make changes to the order based on feedback,” Communications Minister Jyotiraditya M. Scindia told lawmakers. The government had confidentially ordered companies to preload new phones with an app called Sanchar Saathi, or Communication Partner, within 90 days, Reuters reported on Monday. The government says the app only helps track and block stolen phones and prevents them from being misused. Senior Congress leader Randeep Singh Surjewala said in a notice to parliament that the government needed to clarify the legal authority for “mandating a non-removable app” and called for the house to debate privacy and security risks. “The apprehension is also that such an app can have a backdoor compromising the data and privacy of the user,” he said. The notice called for the disclosure of independent cybersecurity audits, safeguards and misuse-prevention mechanisms in place for the app. The plan has little precedent. Russia may be the only other known example. Moscow in August ordered that a state-backed messenger app called MAX, a rival to WhatsApp that critics say could be used to track users, must be pre-installed on all mobile phones and tablets. Apple will convey its concerns to New Delhi, adding that it does not follow such mandates anywhere in the world as they raise a host of privacy and security issues for the company’s iOS ecosystem, sources have said. – ReutersThailand loosens alcohol sales ruleBANGKOK: Thailand yesterday relaxed alcohol sales restrictions, allowing consumers to buy wine, beer and spirits during previously prohibited afternoon hours in a six-month trial. Its strict alcohol laws limit sales to specific hours and bans them on religious holidays. Liquor stores, bars and other retailers were banned from selling alcohol from 2pm to 5pm, but the eased rules permit sales from 11am to midnight during the trial period. Officials last month reviewed the 2pm to 5pm sales ban, a rule originally introduced to prevent government employees from drinking alcohol during work hours. “In the past, there were concerns that government employees would sneak out to drink, but it’s different now,” deputy prime minister Sophon Saram told reporters last month. Health Minister Pattana Promphat said the move was “appropriate to the present situation”, according to a statement in the Royal Gazette (the official journal of Thailand) published on Tuesday. – AFPMyanmar man held over anti-polls chatYANGON: Myanmar’s military said yesterday it arrested a man who sent antielection messages in a private Facebook chat, wielding laws that rights groups say curb personal liberties to crush dissent. The government promises that polls later this month would move the country towards peace and democracy. Ahead of the election, the military government introduced new legislation that includes clauses punishing protesting or criticising the election with up to a decade in prison. An official statement said 58-year-old Khaing Soe from Bogyoke village near Yangon was arrested on Friday. He “was exposed and arrested for writing texts on Messenger using his ‘Khaing Soe’ Facebook page with the intent to frustrate election processes and mislead the public”, it said. The statement did not say how authorities accessed his messages. Two other men were also arrested – one for a Facebook post and one for vandalising an election billboard – while 11 other cases were opened against groups or individuals, the statement said. The government has opened more than 100 cases under the election disruption law, according to an AFP tally. However, some are targeting rebel fighters operating beyond the military’s reach. UN rights office spokesman Jeremy Laurence warned last week that “the military has stepped up mass electronic surveillance to identify dissidents” ahead of the election. – AFPregions remain either cut off by flood damage or isolated by electricity and communications failures, or both. “It’s very challenging logistically,” said Ade Soekadis, executive director of Mercy Corps Indonesia. “The extent of the damage and the size of the affected area is huge.” The group is hoping to send hygiene equipment and water. He said reports of food and water shortages were “very concerning” and the situation will be “more problematic as time goes by”. At an evacuation centre in Padan, 52-year-old Reinaro Waruwu said he was “disappointed” with the government’s immediate response and the slow arrival of aid. “Some waited a day and night before receiving help, so they couldn’t be saved,” he said, surrounded by evacuees sitting on mats in a hall-turned-shelter. Like many, he described the floodwaters and landslides as a disaster without precedent. “It came like an earthquake,” he said. He managed to escape the rising waters, but his neighbours were buried alive in debris. Traumatised, he could not even eat on arrival and since then, food has been patchily available, although vegetables arriving on Tuesday offered a “semblance of hope”, he said. Nearby, Hamida Telaumbaunua, 37, described watching her kitchen swept away by floodwaters.“This was the first time I experienced such a flood,” she said. Her home was lost entirely, along with everything but the few possessions she took when she left. “It’s hard to think about what lies ahead. Maybe as long as we’re still here, it’s okay. But later ... I don’t know what will happen.” The weather system that hit Indonesia also brought heavy rains to Thailand, killing at least 176 people. A separate weather system, Cyclone Ditwah, brought torrential rain, floods and landslides to much of Sri Lanka last week. At least 465 people were killed, and authorities have estimated the disaster’s cost at up to US$7 billion (RM28.9 billion). “We will need about US$6-7 billion for the reconstruction,” said Commissioner-General of Essential Services Prabath Chandrakeerthi. Another 366 people are unaccounted for, including in some of the hardest-hit regions that remain largely inaccessible. Chandrakeerthi said laws that allow a person to be declared dead only after being missing for six months could be shortened to expedite the issuance of death certificates. The government has said it will offer US$83 to families to help clean their homes. Those who lost homes will receive up to US$8,000. Over 1.5 million people have been affected, with over 200,000 in state-run shelters. Despite the disaster, the tourism-reliant country welcomed a cruiseliner to Colombo port on Tuesday. The arrival sends “a clear message – Sri Lanka is safe, open and ready to embrace visitors”, the country’s tourist board said. – AFP

THURSDAY | DEC 4, 20258@thesundailyFOLLOW ON INSTAGRAM@tMalaysian PaperSEOUL: South Korean President Lee Jae Myung said yesterday there was still work to be done to address the fallout of the failed martial law bid by his predecessor a year ago, and the country needed to ensure the perpetrators were brought to justice. Marking the first anniversary of the shock announcement of martial law on Dec 3, 2024, Lee said former president Yoon Suk Yeol’s action had threatened an irreparable setback to the country, but the people rose up and stopped the military with their bare hands. “The recklessness of those who tried to destroy constitutional order and even plan a war all for their personal ambitions must be brought to justice,” he said. “The Dec 3 coup d’etat was not just a crisis for democracy in one country. If democracy in South Korea collapsed, it would have meant a setback ... for world democracy.” Yoon’s martial law declaration plunged a country that had been viewed as a democratic success story into months of political turmoil. The conservative leader was later ousted and Lee, who lost to Yoon in a 2022 presidential poll, won a snap election in June with a mandate to steer the country out of the shock of martial law, as those who were accused of being involved were arrested and tried for subversion. Lee warned that reforming the country following the martial law crisis would be painful and time-consuming. Lee said he will propose designating Decr 3 a national holiday to celebrate the role of the people in quelling martial law and added that he believed they deserved to be considered for the Nobel Peace Prize. Lee will join a citizens’ march to mark the martial law anniversary. The march will pass parliament, where soldiers and police were deployed on the night of Dec 3 to try to shut down the chamber. – ReutersResidents at HK blaze buildings return for belongingsHONG KONG: Some residents forced to flee their homes as a fire closed in a week ago returned to the scorched complex yesterday to retrieve belongings, as others struggled to rebuild lives after a disaster that killed at least 156 people. Carrying large suitcases and empty bags, residents of the only block in the complex not destroyed by the 40-hour inferno were escorted to their homes by government staff and given 90 minutes to pack up. Seven other blocks were engulfed by the fire. All residents of the Wang Fuk Court complex, numbering over 4,000, were displaced by the city’s worst blaze in decades and many are being put up in temporary housing. Authorities have not said when residents of the unaffected building can return as they collect evidence in a criminal investigation. “My whole life is there,” said a 60-year-old woman surnamed Lam, who was waiting with recyclable bags for her daughter, before going into her apartment. Police continue to scour the seven burnt-out buildings. The search may take weeks due to the hazardous conditions and difficulty in collecting bodies, some of which have been found on rooftops and stairwells and others reduced to nothing more than ashes, authorities have said. Some 30 people are still missing. Fifteen people have been arrested. Hong Kong’s anti-corruption body has also launched an investigation, and the city’s leader on Tuesday promised an independent judge-led examination of the tragedy. More than 2,600 residents have been put in temporary accommodation, the government said, with 1,013 residents staying in hostels, camps or hotel rooms. Another 1,607 residents have moved into transitional housing units. “I can’t sleep at night, thinking about my home. Everything that I have earned is gone,” said a 71-year-old woman surnamed Leung, who had come back to the complex with her husband and daughter to speak with support staff. Leung and her husband had been put in transitional housing last week after the fire torched their apartment. However she said the location was too far from public transport and too small to house both of them. They have opted to stay with their daughter instead as they search for more suitable housing. Leung’s 41-year-old daughter, Bonnie Leung, said it was “unfathomable that such a tragedy can happen in Hong Kong”. – Reuters‘Social media ban to protect young from purgatory’SYDNEY: Australia’s looming social media ban will protect the young from an online “purgatory” created by algorithms sending them harmful content, the government said yesterday. The country will from Dec 10 ban under-16s from a raft of the world’s most popular social media platforms and websites, including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube. When it comes into force, it will be the first such legislation in the world. “With one law, we can protect Generation Alpha from being sucked into purgatory by the predatory algorithms,” Communications Minister Anika Wells told reporters. Currently, “the algorithm will attack them so deftly, so subtly, it resembles an embrace. Their interactions will be unsupervised and weaponised because their parents can’t watch them 24/7,” she said. Some teens had killed themselves as algorithms “latched on” – targeting them with content that drained their self-esteem, Wells said. “This law will not fix every harm occurring on the internet, but it will make it easier for kids to chase a better version of themselves.” The minister also responded to YouTube’s criticism of the legislation. The platform said underage users would still be able to visit YouTube without an account, but would lose access to many of its features – including “wellbeing settings” and “safety filters”. It argued that the new law would make children “less safe” on YouTube. Wells said it was “outright weird” for YouTube to tout how “unsafe” their platform was for users who were logged out of their accounts. “If YouTube is reminding us all that it is not safe and there’s content not appropriate for agerestricted users on their website, that’s a problem that YouTube needs to fix,” she said. The Australian government concedes the ban will be far from perfect at the outset, and some underage users will fall through the cracks as issues are ironed out. But platforms face fines of A$49.5 million (RM132 million) if they fail to take “reasonable steps” to comply from next week. Wells said Australia could ban more platforms if they found children migrating to alternative apps. There is keen interest in whether Australia’s sweeping restrictions can work as regulators around the globe wrestle with the potential dangers of social media. Malaysia indicated it was planning to block children under 16 from signing up to social media accounts next year, while New Zealand will introduce a similar ban. – AFPSouth Korea president praises resilience of citizensoAustralia firm on start dateHONG KONG: The city’s government will press ahead with a “patriots only” legislative election scheduled for Sunday, despite doubts over turnout from a local population still reeling from the city’s deadliest fire in decades. The vote is seen by some analysts and residents as a test of legitimacy for the Hong Kong government as it tries to appease public anger over the fire amid a national security crackdown. Analysts expect a heavy police presence and low turnout for Sunday’s poll, the second since electoral reforms ensuring only pro-Beijing “patriots” could run for office were launched in 2021, after pro-democracy protests in 2019 that roiled the city. “We must take a long-term view, move forward firmly, and steadily advance the normal functioning of society,” said Chief Executive John Lee. “We must move forward before we can turn our grief into strength.” He said that going ahead with the election would enable newly elected legislators to move quickly to support postdisaster reconstruction and reforms in the wake of the fire. Government-organised election forums resumed yesterday, after having been suspended since the fire last week. They are a rare space for candidates to debate policy and interact with the public. Political campaigning remains suspended. – Reuters HK presses ahead with electionsA resident of Wang Chi House, the only building not directly affected by the deadly fire at Wang Fuk Court, pushing a trolley with her belongings. – REUTERSPIC

THURSDAY | DEC 4, 20259Gazans in need of urgent medical evacuationGENEVA: A Doctors Without Borders official has pleaded for countries to open their doors to tens of thousands of Gazans in dire need of medical evacuation, warning that hundreds have already died waiting. “The need is really huge,” said Hani Isleem, who coordinates medical evacuations from Gaza for the charity, known by its French acronym MSF. The numbers taken in by countries so far remains “just a drop in the ocean”, Isleem said. The World Health Organisation estimates that more than 8,000 patients have been evacuated from Gaza since the war erupted in October, 2023. It says more than 16,500 patients still need treatment outside of the Palestinian territory. Speaking at the MSF headquarters in Geneva after accompanying seriously ill and injured Gaza children to Switzerland for treatment, Isleem said that number was based only on patients registered for medical evacuation and the true figure was higher. “Our estimate is that it is three to four times that number,” he said. To date, over 30 countries have taken patients, but only a handful, including Egypt and the United Arab Emirates, have accepted large numbers. In Europe, Italy has taken over 200 patients, while large countries like France and Germany have taken none so far. Switzerland last month took in 20 Gaza children who arrived in two batches. The 13 children aged two months to 16 years whom Isleem accompanied last week included four babies with severe congenital heart disease, as well as cancer patients and children requiring complex orthopaedic surgery. Without the evacuation, some of those children would not have made it, he said, pointing out that the babies went straight to surgery after their arrival in Switzerland to avoid “irreversible damage”. Isleem lamented that as conditions in Gaza become more desperate, the pace of medical evacuations has slowed. Initially, some 1,500 patients left each month on average, but after Israel in May 2024 closed the Rafah crossing into Egypt, the monthly average has dropped to around 70. – AFPUS immigration pause list gets longer WASHINGTON: The US government has halted immigration applications for citizens from 19 nations including Afghanistan, Yemen and Haiti, said an official memorandum released on Tuesday, marking a deepening of the nation’s sweeping crackdown on migration. Authorities paused green card and citizenship processing, according to the memo, for people from countries already subject to travel restrictions announced by President Donald Trump in June. Those 19 nations also include Venezuela, Sudan and Somalia. Senior US officials have signalled in recent days they would starkly tighten restrictions on immigration, fuelled by the shooting of two National Guard soldiers last week. The main suspect in the shooting, which killed one, is an Afghan national. The man, who on Tuesday pleaded not guilty to murder charges, entered the United States during mass evacuations as foreign forces withdrew from Afghanistan in 2021. “USCIS plays an instrumental role in preventing terrorists from seeking safe haven in the US and ensuring that USCIS’ screening and vetting and adjudications prioritise the safety of the American people and uphold all US laws,” the memorandum said, referring to the US Citizenship and Immigration Services. The memorandum said that the US has seen “what a lack of screening, vetting and prioritising expedient adjudications can do to the people”, citing the last week’s attack as an example. – AFPBreakthrough eludes high stakes US-Russia talksMOSCOW: High-stakes US-Russia talks on ending the war in Ukraine failed to yield a breakthrough on Tuesday, as the Kremlin said “no compromise” had been found yet on the key question of territory. President Vladimir Putin met President Donald Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner and special envoy Steve Witkoff in the Kremlin, after earlier signalling that his forces were ready to fight on to achieve Russia’s initial war goals. The meeting is a crucial moment for Ukraine in what could be a fraught week following days of frantic diplomacy. At the heart of it is a US plan to bring peace, which has since been revised under pressure from Kyiv and its European backers. On occupied Ukrainian territories, “so far we haven’t found a compromise, but some American solutions can be discussed,” top oDifficult questions over territory, says KremlinRussian presidential aide Yuri Ushakov said after the Moscow meeting. “Some proposed formulations do not fit us, and work will continue,” he said. Trump said progress on ending the nearly four-year-long war would not be easy. “Our people are over in Russia right now to see if we can get it settled,” he said during a Cabinet meeting at the White House. “Not an easy situation, let me tell you. What a mess.” In an interview broadcast on Tuesday night on Fox News, Secretary of State Marco Rubio said talks with Russia “have made some progress” to end the war with Ukraine. It was not clear exactly when the interview had been recorded. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Monday that any plan must end the war for good, and not just lead to a pause in the fighting that began with Moscow’s offensive in February 2022. He also said in a social media post that “there will be no simple solutions”. “What matters is that everything is fair and transparent. That there are no games played behind Ukraine’s back. That nothing is decided without Ukraine,” he said. Kushner and Witkoff were to present Putin with the new version of the US plan, which has been hammered out after the initial version raised fears in Kyiv and elsewhere in Europe that it made too many concessions to Moscow. Ushakov said the initial US plan was broken down into four parts, which were discussed during the five-hour meeting in the Kremlin. “There were some points we could agree on,” the top Putin diplomatic aide said, but “the president did not hide our critical, even negative, stance on a number of proposals”. Putin has demanded that Kyiv surrender territory Moscow claims as its own. The Kremlin also rejects any European force in Ukraine to monitor a truce. In his social media post, Zelensky said “the most difficult questions are about territories, about frozen (Russian) assets ... And about security guarantees.” Still, the talks in Moscow were “useful”, Ushakov said, and Russia and US positions did not become farther apart after it. – AFP54 Palestinian couples tie knot amid ruinsGAZA CITY: The city of Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip hosted a mass wedding on Tuesday for 54 couples in a celebration supported by Abu Dhabi as part of events marking the United Arab Emirates’ (UAE) 54th Union Day. The ceremony, held in the rubble of destroyed buildings in the Hamad residential area, was organised under the UAE’s “Gallant Knight 3” humanitarian operation. A wedding stage named “Thawb al-Farah”, (gown of joy) symbolised resilience and the pursuit of life despite the destruction from Israel’s genocide. Palestinian flags, flowers and traditional songs filled the venue as families and community leaders gathered to watch the newlyweds walk in procession. The organisers said couples were selected through a lottery that included roughly 2,651 applicants from across the enclave. Despite a ceasefire that took effect on Oct 10, Israel has continued to violate the agreement and target Palestinians outside designated withdrawal zones. Since October 2023, the Israeli army has killed more than 70,000 people in Gaza, mostly women and children, and injured over 171,000 others in a brutal assault that also left the enclave in ruins. – BernamaNewlyweds at the mass wedding in Khan Younis on Tuesday. – REUTERSPIC

10THURSDAY | DEC 4, 2025@thesundailyFOLLOW ON TWITTER Malaysian PaperEducation matters remain an important component of Malaysian society. Today the landscape is fast paced with new exciting developments in technology such as AI, coding, virtual reality, and cybersecurity, leading the way for changes in curriculum development. To showcase the latest and most updated content, we invite you join us in 2025, and be part of our Education Focus!Contact us now for special deals on digital, video and print advertising.Malaysian Paper 03-7784 6688 [email protected] 2024, more than half of all secondary-school leavers chose TVET and training programmes over traditional academic streams. – BERNAMAPICDegrees alone don’t cut it anymoreMALAYSIA’S labour market tells a story that is both encouraging and sobering. In 2024, the number of university and college graduates reached nearly six million. The official unemployment rate among them fell to 3.2%, a modest improvement from the year before. Almost five million graduates now hold jobs, and more than 60% of fresh graduates find work within three months of leaving campus. On paper, the system appears to be working. Yet, beneath these headline numbers lies a deeper, more persistent problem. The Labour Force Statistics Q3 reported that more than one in three employed degree and diploma holders (roughly 1.96 million people) are working in jobs that require only low or semi-skilled labour. They drive ride-hailing cars, work as staff at retail counters or perform routine administrative tasks that do not draw on the knowledge they spent years and considerable money acquiring. The economy is creating jobs but it is not creating enough jobs that match the capabilities graduates were trained to offer. This is not primarily a story of lazy youths or inadequate effort; it is a story of mismatched incentives and mismatched curricula. Traditional universities, for all their virtues, still allocate the overwhelming share of teaching time to theory and abstract knowledge. Students master principles of finance, engineering or social science in lectures, yet many arrive at their first interview unable to operate the industry-standard software, interpret real-world data sets or collaborate effectively in the messy, deadline-driven environments that companies actually inhabit. Employers, quite rationally, choose candidates who can contribute from day one rather than candidates who must be taught, at the firm’s expense, how to contribute. The historical mission of the great universities from Oxford to Al-Azhar, was to cultivate thinkers who can reason deeply about philosophy, law and theology. That mission remains noble and necessary – every society needs a small cadre of genuine innovators and researchers. But the modern Malaysian economy, like most economies, runs on skilled executors far more than on pure theorists. We need accountants who can close the books accurately using the actual tools companies use, engineers who can troubleshoot on a factory floor, marketers who can read customer analytics and technicians who can maintain the robots and solar arrays that will power tomorrow’s growth. Most of these roles reward applied competence more than abstract brilliance. Evidence from the labour market itself shows how individuals adapt when the formal system falls short. Countless graduates discover, often by accident or necessity, that the analytical habits and discipline acquired during their studies can be redirected. A finance graduate becomes an insurance underwriter, a psychology student pivots into human-resources technology, a literature major learns digital marketing on the job and thrives. These success stories are heartening, yet they also reveal a wasteful detour: years and ringgit spent acquiring one set of credentials, only to acquire a second set informally later. Society pays twice. A more efficient path is already emerging. In 2024, more than half of all secondary-school leavers chose technical and vocational education and training (TVET) programmes over traditional academic streams. It is the first time TVET has claimed the majority. These students are learning welding, programmable logic controllers, advanced manufacturing, hospitality management and greenenergy installation, precisely the competencies that employers advertise daily. Many TVET graduates earn competitive starting salaries and some later add a degree if they wish, blending practical mastery with theoretical depth in the sequence that the labour market actually rewards. This shift is not an argument against university education; it is an argument for honest diversity in education. A society that funnels nearly everyone towards the same theoryheavy credential inevitably produces an oversupply of abstract thinkers and an undersupply of skilled doers. When the inevitable mismatch occurs, wages stagnate, frustration rises and public confidence in higher education erodes.Policymakers can accelerate the correction that the market is already signalling. Expand high-quality TVET places, tie university curricula far more tightly to documented industry needs, reward institutions for employment outcomes rather than enrolment numbers and celebrate applied careers as enthusiastically. Most important, give young Malaysians clear, respected choices at age 17 instead of the implicit message that only one path (the degree path) confers dignity. Human capital is still the most powerful engine of prosperity any nation possesses. Malaysia has invested heavily in it for decades. The next step is to invest more intelligently – not more years in the same kind of classroom but the right kind of training for the largest number of citizens. When education aligns with the actual structure of opportunity, both individuals and the economy flourish together. The data and the lived experience of millions of graduates tell us the time for that realignment is now. Dr Diana Abdul Wahab is a senior lecturer from the Department of Decision Science, Faculty of Business and Economics, Universiti Malaya.Comments: [email protected]“The economy is creating jobs but it is not creating enough jobs that match the capabilities graduates were trained to offer. This is not primarily a story of lazy youths or inadequate effort; it is a story of mismatched incentives and mismatched curricula.COMMENT by Dr Diana Abdul Wahab

11THURSDAY | DEC 4, 2025Designing workspaces that empowerSTEP into a modern office and the difference is immediately apparent. The neat rows of identical cubicles that once symbolised efficiency have given way to flexible zones, such as quiet rooms for focus, lounges for collaboration and open spaces for conversation. Employees move fluidly between them according to what their day demands. This is activity-based working (ABW), a design philosophy that reflects a deeper evolution in how we view work itself. From presence to purpose For much of the 20th century, the office was built around visibility and control. Productivity was often equated with presence. When the pandemic redefined the relationship between work and place, that assumption began to fade. Hybrid and remote models proved that performance was not bound to a desk. The purpose of the office shifted from a site of supervision to a space of connection, a hub for collaboration, creativity and culture. Across Asia, this shift is accelerating. Organisations are reexamining not just where people work but why they come together. The answer increasingly lies in flexibility and well-being. ABW gives employees freedom to Offices of tomorrow will not simply house employees but energise them, offering the freedom to choose, the tools to perform and the culture to belong. – ADAM AMIR HAMZAH/THESUNCOMMENTby Dr Gu Manli, Dr Karen Tsen Mung Khie and Prof Dr Goh See Kwongchoose settings that best suit their tasks, whether brainstorming as a team or concentrating alone. Yet, while the concept is appealing, its success depends on more than open plans and stylish furniture. It rests on the thoughtful alignment of design, technology and culture. With many professionals now able to work effectively from anywhere, organisations are rethinking how to use office space more intelligently. Rather than maintaining fixed workstations, many are embracing flexible layouts that reflect new work patterns and employee expectations. Designing around human behaviour Intentional design starts with understanding the diversity of work modes. Analytical tasks require calm and privacy while creative work thrives in interactive, open settings. The best offices provide both, allowing employees to shift seamlessly between modes. This balance supports performance and mental well-being, reducing fatigue from either overstimulation or isolation. Technology plays an equally critical role. In a flexible workspace, connectivity is the invisible infrastructure that enables mobility. When systems lag or digital tools fail, the freedom ABW promises quickly turns to frustration. But when technology works intuitively, through fast networks, wireless sharing tools and seamless access, employees experience a sense of flow that keeps them productive wherever they are. In the age of hybrid work, ease of connection is the new measure of efficiency. The most human aspect of workplace design is belonging. As employees move between zones, personal anchors can easily disappear. The absence of an assigned desk may seem minor, yet it can affect how attached people feel to their organisation. Successful ABW environments counter this by fostering belonging through culture and community. Rituals, team spaces and opportunities for informal interaction remind people that while their seats may change, their sense of purpose does not. Belonging cannot be designed into the floor plan, it must be nurtured through leadership. Leadership determines whether flexible work empowers or unsettles. Many Asian organisations still equate visibility with productivity. ABW challenges this notion, calling for trust, the confidence that employees will deliver results even when they are not constantly observed. Effective leaders set clear goals, communicate expectations and measure outcomes rather than attendance. When trust replaces control, accountability follows naturally. A clear flexible-work policy is also vital. Employees should know when physical presence is needed and how collaboration fits into hybrid arrangements. Clarity removes the uncertainty that often accompanies flexible work. When policies are transparent and fair, they strengthen both morale and organisational rhythm. Co-creating future spaces Workplaces are most successful when designed with employees, not for them. Involving staff through workshops, surveys or pilot projects ensures that the final design reflects real needs, not assumptions. It also builds ownership, a crucial ingredient in any cultural transformation. People are more likely to embrace new spaces when they have helped shape them. Ultimately, ABW is not about optimising space but about aligning environment with purpose. The workplace of the future will be adaptive and human-centred, a space that supports focus, collaboration and wellbeing in equal measure. Offices of tomorrow will not simply house employees but energise them, offering the freedom to choose, the tools to perform and the culture to belong. For ABW to succeed sustainably, organisations must shift from attendance-based expectations to performance-based outcomes. When design meets need, work becomes more than a daily routine. It becomes an experience that reflects trust, empathy and the evolving rhythm of modern life. Dr Gu Manli and Dr Karen Tsen Mung Khie are senior lecturers at the School of Management and Marketing, Faculty of Business and Law, Taylor’s University.Both are also members of the Mental Health and Well-being Impact Lab and the Centre for the Future of Work at the University. Prof Dr Goh See Kwong is deputy head (Education) at the School of Business, Monash University Malaysia.Understanding people by mindset, not labelsWE categorise people far more easily than we realise. Income levels, job titles, academic backgrounds and even the neighbourhoods people come from can influence our expectations long before a person speaks. When someone is identified as belonging to a lower-income group, many automatically assume limited exposure, fewer opportunities and reduced potential. These assumptions often form quickly and quietly, yet they have powerful effects on how we perceive others. The truth is that categorisation is a mental shortcut. It simplifies the world but it does not tell the full story. When we look more deeply at human behaviour, it becomes clear that capability is rarely determined by income or background alone. People do not succeed or fail simply because of the group they belong to. They succeed when clarity, resilience and thoughtful intention come together. They struggle when these elements are missing, regardless of socioeconomic status. In any group, you will see a wide range of internal readiness. One person may speak with confidence and clear direction, another may rely heavily on emotion, another may appear unsure and unfocused. These differences arise from mindset, awareness, exposure and decision-making. They are part of a person’s internal architecture, which I describe as the mindprint. At the same time, we cannot ignore the influence of structural realities. According to the Department of Statistics Malaysia, “Labels such as ‘lower-income’, ‘privileged’, ‘underexposed’ or ‘entitled’ can overshadow the person’s true capacity. When this happens, we fail to recognise the role of emotional regulation, goal clarity and personal responsibility in shaping long-term progress.the median household income in 2024 was RM7,017 and the mean income was RM10,145. These figures show that Malaysia, as an upper-middle-income nation, has an economic environment that offers potential for upward mobility, although not equally available to all. Structural barriers do exist and they can affect opportunity and access. Yet, stories of upward movement also show that internal agency still plays an important role in determining outcomes for many individuals. From a psychological perspective, the tendency to categorise is normal. It helps us organise information quickly and reduces cognitive effort. However, it can also cause us to overlook individuality. Labels such as “lower-income”, “privileged”, “underexposed” or “entitled” can overshadow the person’s true capacity. When this happens, we fail to recognise the role of emotional regulation, goal clarity and personal responsibility in shaping long-term progress. Every individual carries an internal blueprint that influences how they respond to circumstances. Some refine this blueprint earlier in life, others refine it over time. Some are shaped by hardship while others by opportunity. What matters most is the series of choices made along the way. The internal mindprint, not the external label, is what ultimately influences direction. To move away from rigid categorisation and towards a more accurate understanding of people, it can be helpful to use practical tools that encourage clearer thinking. Here are some approaches that can support this shift. First, practise awareness of assumptions. Before forming an opinion about someone, pause and ask yourself what unconscious labels might be influencing your judgement. This small moment of awareness can prevent many inaccurate impressions. Second, focus on clarity rather than credentials. In professional and personal settings, pay attention to how clearly a person understands their goals and values. A strong sense of direction often matters more than a long list of qualifications. Third, assess a person’s internal capacity. Look beyond surface-level traits and try to observe how someone thinks through a problem, manages stress or adapts to change. These qualities often predict growth more reliably than background factors. Fourth, design interactions and systems with inclusion in mind. When working with groups from diverse backgrounds, consider whether your expectations are based on labels or on real potential. Ask yourself whether you are creating opportunities that allow individuals to show their strengths. Fifth, invest in psychological and emotional tools. Skills such as emotional intelligence, decisionmaking, self-regulation and reflective thinking are powerful regardless of socioeconomic status. Supporting people in developing these skills often creates long-term stability and empowerment. These tools help us move away from automatic categorisation and towards a more accurate and compassionate understanding of human potential. They remind us that circumstances matter but they are not the whole story. Internal clarity and consistent choices still play an important role in shaping outcomes. People are not defined by where they start; they are defined by how they think, how they choose and how they keep moving forward - one decision at a time. Dr Praveena Rajendra is a certified mental health and awareness practitioner specialising in narcissistic abuse recovery.Comments: [email protected] THE MINDBY DR PRAVEENA RAJENDRA

PROPERTYTHURSDAY | DEC 4, 202512MONBanking & Finance TUESEducation News/Health & Wellness WEDESG THURPropertySINGAPORE: Malaysia’s Sunway Property recently announced that following Sunway Group’s acquisition of MCL Land for S$738.7 million (RM2.42 billion), its Singapore operations will now be known as Sunway MCL, signalling a new phase of growth for the company’s regional property portfolio. The establishment of Sunway MCL combines MCL Land’s six-decade legacy in Singapore’s residential market with Sunway’s five decades of experience as Malaysia’s leading Master Community Developer. Together, they form a strengthened platform to deliver premium, thoughtful, and sustainable developments that reflect both brands’ shared commitment to design excellence and long-term value creation. “The establishment of Sunway MCL marks an important milestone in Sunway’s growth journey. Singapore has always been a key market for us, and this step reinforces our long-term commitment to building sustainable communities that create lasting value. Through Sunway MCL, we are deepening our presence in one of Asia’s most dynamic property markets and strengthening the group’s foundation for the future,” said Sunway Group executive deputy chair Datin Paduka Sarena Cheah. The formation of Sunway MCL is part of Sunway Property’s long-term strategy to build an integrated regional platform for growth. By combining MCL Land’s market expertise with Sunway Property’s proven capabilities in sustainable and mixed-use developments, Sunway MCL enhances the company’s ability to invest confidently and deliver long-term value across key markets. Sunway MCL is now one of Singapore’s most active residential developers, with nine ongoing projects totalling about 4,937 residential units and an attributable GDV of approximately S$4.5 billion. The company will continue to market and deliver all ongoing developments in Singapore including ELTA, Nava Grove, Tembusu Grand and The Continuum under the Sunway MCL name, reinforcing its position in the citystate’s residential market. Operating under the leadership of Sunway Property managing director Chung Soo Kiong, Sunway MCL is helmed by CEO Lee Tong Voon and supported by a local management team deeply rooted in Singapore’s premium residential market. Backed by Sunway’s financial strength and integrated ecosystem across property, construction, healthcare, education and hospitality, the company will continue to create homes that are well designed, well connected and enduring in value. “Sunway MCL carries forward a six-decade legacy of premium residential communities built on craftsmanship, care and connection. Our focus is on creating homes that embody timeless elegance and enduring warmth, reflecting our commitment to delivering spaces that feel both personal and lasting in value,” said Lee. In addition, the acquisition includes MCL Land’s Malaysian assets, comprising development landbanks in Wangsa Maju and the Forest Heights township in Seremban, as well as Wangsa Walk Mall (NLA 330,000 sq ft). These additions complement Sunway Property’s expertise as the Master Community Developer, strengthening its foundations in Malaysia while expanding its regional footprint across key growth corridors. The establishment of Sunway MCL marks a new era that brings together Singaporean design heritage and Sunway Property’s forward-looking approach to community building. Guided by Sunway Property’s purpose as the Master Community Developer, Sunway MCL will continue to deliver premium, thoughtful and sustainable residential developments that contribute to the long-term progress of Singapore and the region. Just across the border in Johor, Sunway Property is strategically positioned at both Causeway gateways through its flagship Sunway City Iskandar Puteri, a 2,000-acre township at the Second Link, and the upcoming Bukit Chagar RTS Transit-Oriented Development at the First Link. Together with Sunway MCL, these developments reinforce the company’s cross-border presence and longterm vision of building connected communities between Malaysia and Singapore.Sunway Property in S’pore renamed Sunway MCLoNew entity cements status as a top private developer with ongoing projects worth S$4.5 billionLow Yat Group unveils RM212m Armanee@Bandar Tasik Puteri in RawangRAWANG: Low Yat Group recently launched Armanee @ Bandar Tasik Puteri (BTP), the latest residential phase within its established 2,670-acre township in Rawang. With an estimated GDV of RM212 million, the project expands the group’s portfolio of family-oriented developments following its recent recognition at the StarProperty Real Estate Developer Awards 2025 with the Family-Friendly Award (Landed, Selangor) for its earlier project Amaya. Comprising 258 units of two-storey terrace homes priced from RM690,000 with built-ups ranging from 1,810 sq ft to 2,254 sq ft, each featuring four bedrooms and four bathrooms, Armanee is a gated-and-guarded neighbourhood featuring a residents-only clubhouse, landscaped parks, playgrounds, and jogging trails. Facilities also include a swimming pool, BBQ area, outdoor fitness equipment, and pickleball and basketball courts — encouraging active, multigenerational living. Phase 1, covering 12.57 acres, offers 140 units now open for booking and is expected to complete within 36 months. Speaking at the recent launch, Andrew Goh, general manager of area property, development and management for Rawang Lakes, said Armanee builds on the group’s twodecade presence in the northern Klang Valley corridor. “We have observed steady demand for well-planned landed homes in Rawang, particularly among first-time and upgrader families priced out of the Klang Valley core,” he said. “Armanee reflects that trend by combining practical Scandinavian-inspired design, community-centred amenities and attainable pricing.” Located within a self-sustained township that already houses more than 100,000 residents, Bandar Tasik Puteri has evolved into a vibrant suburban hub supported by schools, retail, leisure and lifestyle amenities, including the 27-hole Tasik Puteri Golf and Country Club and a 33-acre Central Park. The launch of Armanee also reflects the continued resilience of Malaysia’s property market, where developers are responding to evolving lifestyle needs and demand for wellplanned, family-oriented communities beyond the Klang Valley core. This aligns with the government’s broader goals under the Madani Economy to promote liveable, connected townships that support sustainable urban growth. In conjunction with the launch, Low Yat Group also introduced its “Live the Dream, Travel the World” campaign, where buyers who book a unit and sign the sale and purchase agreement within the campaign period will stand a chance to win a vacation for two to Australia, Korea or Vietnam. Goh said that such measures strengthen overall market confidence and align with Low Yat Group’s goal of delivering homes that retain value while adapting to modern family lifestyles. “Our aim with Armanee is to provide families with attainable homes that offer lasting value, within a township designed to grow sustainably with its community. As the township continues to evolve, our focus remains on creating spaces that encourage families to build roots, enjoy a balanced lifestyle, and be part of a thriving, connected neighbourhood,” he added. The project primarily targets young professionals, modern families and property investors seeking a balance between affordability, space and connectivity, while offering opportunities for long-term appreciation within a maturing township. Since its inception more than 20 years ago, Bandar Tasik Puteri has grown into one of Rawang’s most vibrant communities, anchored by the Tasik Puteri Golf and Country Club, established schools and a growing retail scene that supports daily needs and lifestyle activities. SkyWorld celebrates four consecutive Fiabci-Malaysia Property Award winsKUALA LUMPUR: SkyWorld Development Bhd recently celebrated its fourth recognition at the Fiabci-Malaysia Property Awards, the nation’s most prestigious recognition for excellence in real estate development. This milestone, marked by SkyAwani 5 Residences, is honoured under the Affordable Housing High-Rise Category this year, reinforcing SkyWorld’s commitment to quality and innovation. This latest achievement continues SkyWorld’s streak of yearly recognition since 2022. With a world-winning record at the Fiabci World Prix d’Excellence Awards for three consecutive years, SkyAwani 2 Residences, SkyAwani 3 Residences, and SkyLuxe On The Park Residences have been recognised both locally and internationally. Now, SkyAwani 5 Residences becomes the fourth project to be celebrated at the national level. Widely regarded as the “Oscars of Real Estate,” the Fiabci Awards underscore the industry’s highest standards of quality, innovation, and community value. Strategically located in Sentul, SkyAwani 5 Residences spans 2.06 acres and offers 615 designed homes, each featuring 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms within an efficient 800 sq ft layout. Priced at RM300,000 under the Residensi Wilayah initiative, the development combines practicality, sustainability, and comfort to deliver exceptional value for urban living. Achieving a 100% take-up rate and an 84% QLASSIC score (the highest among affordable housing projects in its year), SkyAwani 5 sets a new benchmark in construction quality. “Our purpose has always been to ‘Make Living Better’ for everyone,” said SkyWorld CEO Lee Chee Seng. “SkyAwani 5 Residences embodies our continuous pursuit of innovation, sustainability, and community well-being, values that define every SkyWorld development, motivating us to bring our developments to new cities where there is demand.” Building on the success of the SkyAwani series, SkyWorld continues its journey of delivering quality affordable homes with the launch of SkyAwani Prima Residences in Brickfields, SkyAwani 6 Residences in Setapak, and its first Penang development, SkyAwani Pearlmont Residences in Seberang Jaya. SkyWorld’s projects in Penang are Malaysia’s largest affordable housing development under the Rumah Bakat Madani initiative and mark the state’s first PPVC-built residential project.From left: Goh, operations, business development & special projects group director Vivekananda, property development deputy general manager Chia Gah Mei, and area architectural and project management executive manager Chong Kiat Moon cutting the ribbon at the launch.

THURSDAY | DEC 4, 2025EditorialT: 03-7784 6688 F: 03-7785 2625 E: [email protected] AdvertisingT: 03-7784 8888 E: [email protected] MERehda calls for data-drivenhousing reforms PETALING JAYA: Malaysia’s affordable housing policies are struggling to keep pace with demographic shifts and market realities, according to the Rehda Institute, which called for a data-driven approach to reform quota requirements and pricing mechanisms. Speaking at the institute’s research workshop titled Beyond Housing Quotas: Designing a Future Without Limits, research and education director Malathi Thevendran highlighted how outdated assumptions continue to drive policy, creating inefficiencies and contributing to unsold and abandoned housing units. “Most of the studies that we have done over the years, including affordable housing and abandoned housing, have revealed to us a consistent challenge and issue. “To date, we have still got unsold completed units of about 27,000, contributing literally 16.4 billion ringgit. “Coupled with that, we have abandoned housing today, which still stands at about 30,000,” she said, pointing to the magnitude of idle capital tied up in underutilised properties. Malathi traced the origin of Malaysia’s Bumiputera quota, noting that the 30% allocation in private housing projects was introduced in 1981 on recommendations from the IMF and World Bank. oOutdated assumptions continue to drive policy, contributing to unsold units Ű BY DEEPALAKSHMI MANICKAM [email protected]“Bumiputera now make up 70% of the population. Income categories have also shifted. Yet, the quota policy has remained almost unchanged for 44 years.” She emphasised that homeownership trends have evolved alongside household incomes and demographics, with Malaysia achieving a homeownership rate of 77%. “A large portion of middle-income Malaysians still find ownership a challenge, not because of quotas, but because affordability itself has changed,” she added. Malathi also pointed to the financial strain created by price-controlled units. She explained that in many states, the floor price for affordable housing is far below construction cost. “We must ask ourselves: can any developer realistically build a proper, safe and compliant home at RM42,000? “The cross-subsidy model is pushing up the market price of nonsubsidised units. Buyers are paying for the gap.” She noted that while states maintain different quota percentages, price caps, discounts, and even minimum unit sizes, this variation has created inefficiencies and mismatches between supply and demand, particularly between urban and non-urban areas. Addressing land and abandoned projects, Malathi said: “If idle state land sits unused for years, why not release it for social housing?” She urged reinstating automatic release mechanisms, noting Selangor’s 2011–2019 framework that gradually released unsold Bumiputera units. “Without release mechanisms, unsold quota units lock up capital and restrict cash flow,” she added. Malathi also addressed the broader challenge of shared responsibility. “Yet, only developers are expected to absorb every cost and deliver every social obligation. “Housing cannot be sustainable if the burden is one-sided,” Malathisaid, stressing the need for collaboration between government, financial institutions and other stakeholders. Rehda Institute chairman Datuk Jeffrey Ng Tiong concluded the session by stressing the need for policies that reflect current market conditions. “Quotas are here to stay. This session was never about removing them, but we must adjust them to reflect market forces. One-size-fits-all does not work,” he said. Ng also underscored the importance of data in policy formulation. “Data collection is crucial, but equally important is analysis and sharing. Without that, there can be no meaningful policy decisions.” He highlighted that housing affordability should be measured by net disposable income rather than gross income, and reiterated that social housing is a shared responsibility. “Social housing cannot fall solely on developers. Every stakeholder must hold each other’s hand to get the job done,” he said. The conference also reflected on international experiences. Malathi noted that countries such as Singapore, Taiwan and Vietnam have combined mandatory and voluntary approaches with strong monitoring systems, tax incentives and government ownership of social housing to ensure equitable access. “When you study all of this in terms of incentive, every single country provides some form of incentives to make it socially viable,” she said. She emphasised that enforcement and diligent monitoring are critical to prevent misuse and ensure units reach those who need them. The Rehda Institute’s findings call for flexible, data-driven housing policies that address unsold and abandoned units while sharing responsibility among all stakeholders. Malathi and Ng stressed that evidence-based strategies are key to balancing social equity with commercial viability.Alibaba Cloud to build fourth Malaysian data centre by 2026KUALA LUMPUR: Alibaba Cloud, the cloud computing arm of China tech giant Alibaba Group, is set to open its fourth data centre in Malaysia by 2026, said deputy digital minister Wilson Ugak Kumbong. He said Alibaba Cloud recently launched its third Malaysian facility, and the upcoming fourth centre highlighted the country’s appeal as a regional hub for digital infrastructure. “This sends a powerful signal that Malaysia is now home to one of Alibaba Cloud’s largest data centre footprints in Southeast Asia,“ he said in his speech at Alibaba Cloud Al Day on Dec 3. With the upcoming fourth data centre, Malaysia will be Alibaba Cloud’s largest data centre presence in Southeast Asia. Besides Alibaba Cloud, he said several other international brands are expanding their business in Malaysia. “Not only are we fostering ourselves as the regional digital hub, but we are also relatively disaster-free in the long run. This really is great for practical data centre infrastructure.” He said Malaysia’s ample land and natural resources, along with its attention to environmental and community needs, have strengthened investor confidence. “Between 2021 and June 2025, the government approved 143 data-(From left) Alibaba Cloud Intelligence business development head Shannen Chin, Alibaba Cloud Intelligence International Business Unit chief of staff Rachel Chen, Alibaba Cloud Intelligence International general manager of Malaysia Choong Hon Keat, Wilson Ugak, Digital Ministry secretary-general Fabian Bigar, Ryt Bank chief financial officer Wilson Soon and Ryt Bank chief technology officer Nic Ngoo.Ű BY HAYATUN RAZAK [email protected] projects with a total investment value of RM144.4 billion,“ he said. Wilson Ugak also congratulated the Alibaba Cloud team for receiving an award at this year’s Conference on Neural Information Processing Systems (NeurIPS). “This recognition acknowledges Alibaba Cloud’s research breakthrough that significantly improves the efficiency of large-language models. “In addition to that, ladies and gentlemen, the recent roll-out of new smart devices powered by Alibaba’s Qwen AI is another exciting chapter of Alibaba’s growth model and work,“ he said. At the event, the company announced new partnerships with Ryt Bank and the energy subsidiary of the national carmaker Proton New Energy Technology (PRO-NET). He praised the multi-sector partnerships, saying Malaysia’s digital transformation depends on strong cooperation between industry and technology providers. “Today’s announcements between Alibaba Cloud, Ryt Bank and PRO-NET show how cloud and AI technologies can accelerate national progress from advancing AI-powered digital banking to transforming the EV ecosystem. “These initiatives support our commitment to driving innovation and reinforcing Malaysia’s position in the digital economy,“ he said. Powered partly by Alibaba Cloud infrastructure, Ryt Bank is building an AI-enabled digital banking platform. The bank launched its core banking system in just six months using Alibaba Cloud’s local data centres and secure cloud architecture to support compliance with Bank Negara Malaysia’s regulatory requirements. Ryt Bank CEO Melvin Ooi said the partnership has enabled the bank’s fast and secure rollout. “This collaboration provides the cloud foundation and AI capabilities we need to drive innovation, strengthen customer trust, and support Malaysia’s broader digital ambitions,“ he said. Alibaba Cloud is also supporting PRO-NET in accelerating Malaysia’s EV growth. Since PRO-NET’s inception, Alibaba Cloud has helped the company adopt a cloud-first, data-driven approach through an end-to-end integrated data pipeline. This foundation supports PRO-NET’s development of Malaysia’s new-energy ecosystem and its push toward intelligent, sustainable mobility. Building on this, PRO-NET is expanding its AI capabilities using Alibaba Cloud’s Model Studio to develop an internal chatbot, with plans to extend it to customer-facing applications and vehicle infotainment systems. The collaboration aims to strengthen PRO-NET’s capabilities in predictive analytics, intelligent mobility and customer experience. PRO-NET CEO Zhang Qiang said Alibaba Cloud has been crucial in enabling its digital transformation. “As we move into the next phase with AI, this collaboration will empower us to unlock deeper insights, elevate customer experiences, and shape a smarter, more connected future of mobility for Malaysia,“ he said. The partnership also explores broader AI applications through Alibaba Cloud’s Qwen models and Platform for AI, positioning PRO-NET to leverage advanced AI tools to improve operational efficiency and drive innovation in electric mobility.

BIZ & FINANCETHURSDAY | DEC 4, 202514KUALA LUMPUR: Croesus IT Holdings Bhd, a Malaysia-based provider of enterprise software solutions, aims to scale regionally within the next three years, supported by the brand visibility gained from its LEAP Market listing and demand across Asia. Managing director Richard Liau said the group plans to expand into Singapore, Australia and Indonesia in 2026. “We aim to strengthen our presence in Singapore and Australia shortly after the listing, followed by further expansion as we grow our overseas footprint. A three-year timeline would be ideal for this phase,” he said at a press conference held after the company’s debut on the LEAP Market of Bursa Malaysia yesterday. He noted that Asia continues to demonstrate the strongest demand and fastest-paced growth globally, making it a strategic anchor for Croesus as the company aims to maximise market momentum and strengthen its competitive position. “Asia represents a significant growth market for us. SAP’s channel management team has indicated that investors from markets such as Hong Kong, the US and Germany are increasingly looking toward Asia,” he said. “In essence, Asia has emerged as the central growth hub. While these markets may be larger in absolute terms, Asia’s growth trajectory is far more robust. As such, we believe it is essential to prioritise and capitalise on the strategic advantage of being Asiabased.” Liau said that although the listing was mainly for branding and visibility rather than fundraising, the group is already seeing early gains. “We have been invited to undertake work in Australia and have participated in several pitches. We are optimistic about securing some of these deals in the near term,” he said. He explained that Singapore is a key market due to the upcoming rollout of e-invoicing requirements. “The country is essentially in the early stages of implementing e-invoicing, whereas we have already gone through the full learning curve in Malaysia across phases one, two and three. We intend to leverage that experience and, in a sense, monetise it in Singapore as we work to grow our market share further there.” In Indonesia and Malaysia, the group is targeting the agriculture sector, particularly the plantation software segment. Liau added that post-listing, Croesus IT will also push its Croesus myHR platform, an ERPplus-HR system that manages manpower, leave, payroll, time attendance and performance measurement. “Essentially, it will enable businesses to utilise their manpower more efficiently and productively. All of these enhancements are being rolled out this month in both Singapore and Malaysia,” he said. He said Singapore will initially be explored through branch operations due to the complexities of its tax structure. The listing exercise involves the issuance of 100 million ordinary shares at a listing price of 12 sen per share, valuing the company at RM12 million. LEAP listings cater to high-growth companies seeking profiling rather than immediate valuation maximisation. Croesus IT provides enterprise software solutions, offering both third-party systems and proprietary platforms, including SAP Business One, SAP Cloud ERP, Croesus myAgri, Croesus myHR, Croesus myE-Invoice and Croesus Business Intelligence (BIX). Its operating subsidiary, Croesus IT Solutions Sdn Bhd, was incorporated in 2004 as the pioneering Malaysian channel partner for sales, delivery and support of SAP Business One. Its customer base spans industries such as manufacturing, aviation, fast-moving consumer goods, fertiliser, pharmaceuticals, fertility sciences, clinical diagnostics, life sciences, IT services, publications, printing, as well as oil palm plantations and milling. Croesus IT is also the first SAP Business One partner to be listed on Bursa Malaysia.Croesus IT plans regional push after Bursa listingoEnterprise software solutions provider to expand to Singapore, Australia and Indonesia in 2026 Alpha IVF Group’s Manila centre commences operations KUALA LUMPUR: Leading fertility care specialist Alpha IVF Group Bhd commenced operations at the group’s IVF centre in Quezon City, Manila. The Philippines operation, which also marks the group’s second overseas IVF centre, reinforces its strategy to expand across high-growth markets in Southeast Asia. The new facility stands as the group’s second fully operational international centre, adding to its existing overseas centre in Singapore. The Philippines operations are expected to become a meaningful revenue contributor from FY27 as the centre ramps up patient volumes and strengthens its clinical presence in the market. Group managing director Datuk Dr Colin Lee Soon Soo said the group expects the Philippines market to become a significant contributor to its revenue trajectory from FY27 onwards. “Our track record in successfully scaling operations demonstrates our ability to deliver high pregnancy success rates consistently. “By translating our proven methodologies to Manila, we will replicate the exceptional pregnancy outcomes we are known for. “We are optimistic that our Manila IVF centre will benefit from the wealth of experience that the group has, catering to the underserved market in the Philippines,” he said in a statement. Located in Quezon City, the centre is positioned within one of the country’s most active urban and residential zones. Its proximity to Caloocan, Manila City, Marikina, Pasig, Bulacan, and Rizal gives the centre access to a combined population catchment of over 20 million people. Premium, comprehensive fertility care remains limited in the Philippines. Alpha IVF Group’s entry is therefore timely, as the group can introduce advanced fertility technologies and internationally benchmarked treatment standards to Filipino couples, effectively bridging the gap. Over the years, Alpha IVF Group has achieved and maintained high pregnancy rates comparable to those of top centres worldwide. It remains committed to advancing fertility care through innovation and best practices. The group has invested RM9 million in capital expenditure for the Manila IVF facility, funded by IPO proceeds. The centre is designed to accommodate up to 1,500 oocyte pick-ups annually. It offers a full range of fertility and reproductive services, supported by modern laboratories and advanced reproductive technologies. To reinforce the centre’s value as a medical investment, the group is engaging Philippine government agencies to secure a targeted fiscal incentive package. Incentives such as income tax holidays and duty/VAT exemptions are expected to improve profit margins by reducing tax liabilities and operating costs, thereby strengthening cash flow and enhancing overall returns to shareholders.Ű BY HAYATUN RAZAK [email protected] welcomes landmark social protection reformsKUALA LUMPUR: The Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM) has welcomed the passage of amendments to the Employees’ Social Security Act 1969 (Act 4) and the Employment Insurance System Act 2017 (Act 800), describing the development as a significant milestone in strengthening Malaysia’s social protection framework under the Madani government. In a statement, FMM said the introduction of the new Non-Employment Injury Scheme, which extends 24-hour nationwide protection to more than 9.6 million workers – including foreign workers – marks one of the most meaningful reforms to date, addressing long-standing coverage gaps for accidents occurring outside working hours. FMM president Tan Sri Datuk Soh Thian Lai lauded the government’s efforts, saying: “These reforms reflect a serious commitment to enhancing the well-being of Malaysia’s workforce. “The expansion of protection to cover employees beyond the workplace is not only timely but also critical to Malaysia’s journey toward a stronger, more inclusive labour ecosystem.” He added that while the federation fully supports the intent of the reforms, it remains essential that implementation be carried out with full transparency, sustainable financing and clear operational guidance for employers. “For these initiatives to succeed, employers must have clarity on contribution structures, compliance expectations and long-term sustainability. This ensures that both workers and businesses benefit in a balanced and equitable manner.” On the enhancements to the Employment Insurance System (EIS), FMM expressed support for the improvements, which include higher early reemployment allowance (EBSA), increased training fee ceilings, improved training allowances and an enhanced Mobility Assistance Allowance. These measures, the federation said, reinforce Active Labour Market Policies and strengthen efforts in reskilling, upskilling and job matching. However, FMM raised concerns regarding the proposed new Part VIa of Act 800, particularly the requirement for employers to notify job vacancies. The federation emphasised that vacancy notification is primarily an administrative function and should not be subject to punitive fines. It noted that many mature labour-market systems worldwide rely on sanction-based or administrative measures rather than financial penalties. FMM called on the Ministry of Human Resources to reconsider the proposed penalties and explore more practical, non-punitive compliance mechanisms. “Employers are committed to supporting labour-market strengthening initiatives. However, compliance frameworks must take into account practical realities such as confidential hiring needs, urgent recruitment and existing internal systems. “A supportive approach – not a punitive one –will drive higher and more consistent compliance,” Soh said. As the reform measures move toward implementation, FMM underscored the need for clear guidelines, practical timelines, and phased rollouts, where appropriate, to ensure seamless adoption across diverse industries. The federation also requested clarity on areas such as duplication with employers’ existing recruitment platforms and implications for businesses with high-volume hiring cycles. FMM believes the amendments reflect the government’s strong commitment to enhancing worker protection and building a more resilient labour market. “TBy working closely together – government, employers and all stakeholders – we can ensure that these reforms deliver meaningful outcomes for both workers and the nation’s economic growth,” Soh said.The Manila facility is the group’s second fully operational international centre.

BIZ & FINANCETHURSDAY | DEC 4, 202515Genting, GENM face downgrade risk after bidKUALA LUMPUR: Genting Bhd and Genting Malaysia Bhd (GENM) face increased credit rating downgrade risk following Genting’s RM3.1 billion acquisition of additional shares in GENM, according to CreditSights.In its latest research note, the firm said both entities are now closer to the downgrade triggers set by major rating agencies. “We now see a high likelihood of rating downgrade risk for Genting at Moody’s and Fitch, and for GENM at Fitch,” it said. CreditSights said that on a pro forma basis, using Genting’s ninemonth 2025 numbers, the group would have breached all downgrade trigger ratios at Moody’s and Fitch. “We project pro forma retained cash flow to net debt at 17%, compared with Moody’s downgrade trigger of below 20% to 25%. “(We also estimate) gross leverage at 5.9 times against Moody’s trigger of above four times, and earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation net leverage at over five times, exceeding Fitch’s trigger of above 3.5 times,” it said. CreditSights said that if GENM’s Miami land sale does not materialise in the financial year 2026, Genting is expected to remain in breach of the rating downgrade triggers throughout that period. “If the Miami land sale materialises in financial year 2026, Genting may narrowly avoid breaching Moody’s and Fitch’s downgrade triggers, though we view the sale as a long shot that both rating agencies are unlikely to factor in,” it said. CreditSights said a downgrade of Genting by Moody’s and Fitch would place its ratings at “Baa3” and “BBB-”, respectively, with GENM’s ratings remaining tied to Genting. The firm said it maintains a “Market Perform” recommendation on Genting and an “Outperform” call on GENM. – BernamaAWC wins 36-month rail upgrade job for Ampang LineSUBANG JAYA: Main market-listed leading engineering services group, AWC Bhd, through its wholly owned subsidiary Trackwork & Supplies Sdn Bhd, signed and accepted a letter of acceptance (LoA) issued by Prasarana Malaysia Bhd for the replacement of aluminium composite power conductor rails for the Ampang Line rail track. The contract involves the replacement of the existing aluminium composite power conductor rails and all associated supply, installation, testing and commissioning requirements in accordance with Prasarana’s technical specifications. The contract period is 36 months from the commencement date. Group CEO and president Datuk Ahmad Kabeer Mohamed Nagoor said this win underscores the rail division’s proven project delivery and strong expertise, supported by more than 25 years of experience in the sector with involvement in most of the major rail projects in Malaysia. “For us at AWC, securing this contract is undoubtedly good news as it strengthens our order book and provides clear earnings visibility while demonstrating that our key divisions continue to build solid momentum in securing new jobs. “Our total contract wins in FY26 now stand at around RM330 million. More importantly, we want to continue contributing to the government’s agenda to enhance the safety, reliability, and efficiency of public transportation, reinforcing our position as a trusted partner in nationbuilding,” he said in a statement. As of the end of September 2025, AWC’s order book stands at RM528 million. This excludes five contracts secured after the close of the quarter under review amounting to around RM318 million. To recap, AWC’s rail division provides railway construction and maintenance solutions. It supplies and maintains track construction machinery, including tamping machines, ballast regulators, ballast cleaning machines, ballast hopper wagons, flatbed wagons, track trolleys, and locomotives. The rail division also undertakes specialised track works, including thermit welding and preassembly of turnouts. It is a registered supplier with the Ministry of Finance (MoF) and Keretapi Tanah Melayu Bhd (KTMB), with more than 25 years of track record and involvement in most major rail projects in Malaysia.Ahmad Kabeer says AWC’s latest contract win with Prasarana Malaysia Bhd strengthens earnings visibility and reinforces its role in nation-building.Dex-Lab moves closer to SGX Catalist listingKUALA LUMPUR: Nova MSC Bhd’s subsidiary Dex-Lab Pte Ltd, has appointed Evolve Capital Advisory Pte Ltd, as its sponsor for Dex-Lab’s listing on the Singapore Exchange (SGX) Catalist Board. This appointment marks a significant milestone in Dex-Lab’s progression from Singapore’s first mover in eldercare humanoid robotics to a fast-scaling provider across Asia-Pacific (Apac) and Australia. The proposed IPO remains subject to due diligence, finalisation of transaction structure, market conditions and approvals from both Nova MSC’s shareholders and the relevant stock exchanges. Nova MSC executive chairman Sunny Loh Guan Huat said Dex-Lab has grown rapidly in Singapore with proven outcomes and attracts strong interest from care providers and institutions. “The caregiving sector worldwide is under intense pressure. Our humanoid social robots Dexie and Daisy provide meaningful, complementary support to care teams and deliver measurable benefits to residents. “With global demand rising for eldercare robotics, we believe the time is right to explore an SGX listing. “The appointment of Evolve Capital is a key step as Dex-Lab prepares for regional scale-up. A SGX Founded in Singapore in 2020, Dex-Lab develops humanoid social robots designed specifically for eldercare and dementia care environments. – DEX-LAB WEBSITEoFast-growing social robotics provider steps up IPO plans as eldercare demand growslisting will help Dex-Lab accelerate market expansion, enhance R&D and strengthen its global position,” he said in a statement. Founded in Singapore in 2020, Dex-Lab develops humanoid social robots designed specifically for eldercare and dementia care environments. Its current flagship robots — Dexie and Daisy — deliver structured programmes including cognitive stimulation, mobility exercises, music therapy, and multilingual conversation and social engagement. The solutions are developed to complement, not replace, human caregivers by reducing manual workload and enabling consistent, meaningful interaction for seniors. Dex-lab’s solutions have gained strong market adoption in Singapore, with active deployments across leading care providers such as Singhealth Community Hospitals, PeaceHaven Nursing Home, MWS Nursing Home, All Saint Homes, Bright Hill Evergreen Nursing Home, Lion’s Home for the Elderly, and St Andrew’s Nursing Home. Independent studies conducted with a major public healthcare cluster have reported measurable improvements — including a 32% increase in positive patient engagement, cognitive gains in 46% of participants, up to two hours of staff time reallocated per session, and enhanced staff-to-patient ratios from 1:3 to as efficient as 1:5–6. Together with deployments in Australia and showcases in Hong Kong, these outcomes affirm DexLab’s position as an emerging leader in social robotics in the Asia-Pacific region. The sector in which Dex-Lab operates is experiencing rapid global acceleration with social robots, humanoid systems, and digital eldercare technologies gaining significant traction as healthcare systems worldwide grapple with rising care demand, shrinking labour supply, and rapidly ageing populations. Global market drivers underscore this momentum, with the social robots market projected to exceed US$40 billion (RM165 billion) within the next decade, strong growth expected in humanoid robotics through 2030 and beyond, the dementia-care market estimated at US$40.6 billion by 2034, and the global population of individuals aged 60 and above forecast to reach 1.4 billion by 2030 — expanding further to 2.1 billion by 2050. Against this backdrop, Dex-Lab is accelerating its expansion across key Asian markets and Australia, regions facing some of the world’s fastestageing demographics. The company is building on completed and ongoing pilots in Singapore, Australia, and Hong Kong. It is currently evaluating new opportunities in Malaysia, China, the Middle East, and other emerging markets.

BIZ & FINANCETHURSDAY | DEC 4, 202516Taiwan charges Tokyo Electron unit in TSMC trade secrets caseTAIPEI: Taiwan prosecutors said on Tuesday they had charged Tokyo Electron’s Taiwan unit with violating the National Security Act and the Trade Secrets Act after a former employee was indicted in August for alleged theft of trade secrets from chipmaker TSMC. The prosecutors said in a statement that it was the first corporate indictment under Taiwan’s National Security Act involving the alleged theft of national core critical technology trade secrets. The unit could face fines of up to T$120 million (RM15.6 million) if convicted, the prosecutors’ statement added. Prosecutors, after questioning the company’s former employee identified only by his surname Chen, and relevant Tokyo Electron staff and reviewing the evidence together with the company’s written responses, concluded that the company had a legal duty to supervise Chen. “However, apart from general and cautionary internal rules, the company lacked evidence of concrete preventive or managerial measures. “Prosecutors therefore determined that the company failed to take necessary steps to prevent the offence and should bear corporate criminal liability under the relevant provisions,“ the statement said. In a statement yesterday, Tokyo Electron said that it, the parent entity, had not been indicted and the matter had no impact on its financial results. “We deeply regret this matter, take it with the utmost seriousness and sincerely apologise for the considerable concern this has caused our stakeholders,” it said. The company said it had set up an information security framework including a round-the-clock monitoring system by internal and external security experts to prevent and detect information leaks. Its Taiwan unit did not immediately respond to requests for comment. In August, Taiwan prosecutors indicted three people for theft of trade secrets from chipmaker TSMC, accusing them of conspiring to use the information to help Tokyo Electron in competing for TSMC supplier deals for the 2-nanometer process, its most advanced chip technology. The defendants included an ex-TSMC employee, surnamed Chen, who after joining Tokyo Electron had solicited help from his former colleagues for the information on TSMC’s technology trade secrets. – ReutersAustralia’s annual growthhits two-year high in Q3Thai inflation negative again in NovemberBANGKOK: Thailand’s annual headline inflation rate was negative for an eighth month in November, driven by falling energy prices and government support measures, but the Commerce Ministry said yesterday it expected consumer prices to rise slightly next year. The headline consumer price index fell 0.49% in November from a year earlier, following a drop of 0.76% in October. The ministry said it expected headline inflation for 2025 would come in between negative 0.15% and negative 0.2%, the first full-year negative reading in five years. The core CPI reading rose an annual 0.66% in November. The ministry has said previously that negative CPI readings were not a signal of deflation given the core CPI was still positive. Prices could begin rising next year, when the inflation rate was expected to be in a range of 0% to 1%, Nantapong Chiralerspong, head of the Trade Policy and Strategy Office, told a press conference. “Agricultural product prices are still rising, which may result in positive inflation in the first quarter of next year,” he said. Over the first 11 months of 2025, the average annual headline rate was negative 0.12%, while the core CPI was up 0.86%, the ministry said, adding headline CPI was expected to fall again in December. Separately, a leading business group said while it expected the economy to grow 2% this year, driven by an expected 10% surge in exports, it saw challenges facing industry including a strong baht, US tariffs, and competition from imports. “Our export competitiveness is facing problems, and it (the baht) is severely impacting tourism. “A significant number of tourists have disappeared,” Kriengkrai Thiennukul, chairman of the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI), told reporters. The baht has gained 7.6% against the American dollar so far this year to be Asia’s second-best-performing currency, and Kriengkrai said that was affecting exports and tourism. The ministry’s Nantapong said there would be little impact on inflation from severe flooding in parts of the country’s south, while the FTI said the disaster would trim economic growth this year and next. The industry group estimated income losses of 20 billion to 30 billion baht (RM2.6 billion to RM3.9 billion) this month, equivalent to 0.1% to 0.2% of GDP, with further losses of around 90 billion baht seen in 2026. The flood damage will require extensive repairs and rehabilitation that are estimated in the hundreds of billions of baht, it said. Economists expect the central bank to cut interest rates at a policy review on Dec 17, after the Bank of Thailand held its key rate steady at 1.50% in October. November was the ninth consecutive month that inflation has come in below the central bank’s target range of 1% to 3%. On Monday, Bank of Thailand Governor Vitai Ratanakorn said he saw room to lower rates, but added such a move had only a limited impact on an economy facing structural problems. – ReutersSYDNEY: Australia’s economy grew at the fastest annual pace in two years in the September quarter, with strength across business, governments and consumers suggesting little scope for more policy easing, data showed yesterday. Data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics showed real gross domestic product (GDP) in the third quarter climbed by 2.1% from the same period a year earlier, the fastest since mid-2023 and above the central bank’s estimate of trend growth of 2%. GDP rose by 0.4% from the prior quarter, missing forecasts for a gain of 0.7% and slowing from an upwardly revised 0.7% in the previous quarter. Inflation measures in the report also remained high just as the central bank chief has warned the economy could be already at its potential growth limit. “The economy is in good shape. Slightly too good, in fact, for the RBA (Reserve Bank of Australia),” said Harry Murphy Cruise, head of economic research for Oxford Economics Australia. oStrength seen across businesses, governments and consumers“The investment side of the account is exactly what you want to see if you care about future supply capacity – more capital going into the parts of the economy that will drive productivity and potential output over time,” said Sunny Nguyen, head of Australia Economics at Moody’s Analytics. The household savings ratio climbed to 6.4%, from an upwardly revised 6.0%, suggesting consumers still had plenty of spending power left. The robust domestic demand is one reason that inflation has been hotter than expected in recent months. Australia’s inflation jumped to 3.8% in October while the trimmed mean measure of core inflation also climbed back to above the 2%-3% the RBA is targeting. Measures of inflation in the report showed the price deflator rose 1.3% in the quarter, which lifted nominal annual GDP growth to 5.4%. Nominal GDP stood at A$2.8 trillion for the quarter. The RBA board meets next week and is considered certain to hold rates at 3.60%, and perhaps turn more hawkish on the outlook for further easing. – Reuters“With inflation rising and domestic momentum building, the central bank has its work cut out for it. Rate cuts are off the table for some time.” After the data was released, the Australian dollar climbed 0.1% to $0.6572, while three-year government bond futures recouped earlier losses to be flat at 96.05. Swaps imply the RBA will remain on hold until late next year, but are pricing in a 75% probability for a rate hike by the end of 2026. The slowdown in quarter-on-quarter growth was mostly due to an outsized drag in inventories, which took off 0.5 percentage points from GDP. But, in a sign of underlying strength, domestic final demand picked up sharply to add 1.1 ppt on a quarterly basis to growth. Private investment added 0.5 ppt in quarterly terms to growth, reflecting the ongoing expansion in data centres, the ABS said. That represents a long-delayed recovery in business investment after three rate cuts this year. Government spending also added 0.2 ppt to the quarterly growth, after barely contributing anything the previous quarter. Household consumption added 0.3 ppt, driven mostly by essential spending. Residential properties stand at Cremorne Point in view of Sydney Harbour Bridge. – REUTERSPIC

BIZ & FINANCETHURSDAY | DEC 4, 202517Anthropic plans an IPO as early as 2026, FT reports SAN FRANCISCO: Anthropic, the artificial intelligence startup backed by Alphabet’s Google and Amazon, has hired law firm Wilson Sonsini to prepare for an initial public offering that could take place as early as 2026, the Financial Times reported on Tuesday. An IPO would give the company, which operates the AI chatbot Claude, a more efficient way to raise capital and provide leverage for bigger acquisitions through public stock. The move comes as AI adoption gains pace, driven by higher enterprise tech spending and growing investor appetite. An Anthropic spokesperson told Reuters the company has not decided when or even if it will go public. The company has previously turned to Wilson Sonsini for a range of corporate matters. The law firm did not immediately oRival OpenAI has also signalled plans for potential listingrespond to Reuters’ request for comment on the FT report outside normal business hours. Anthropic could be prepared to list in 2026, according to the report. The startup has also discussed with major investment banks about a potential IPO, the newspaper said, citing sources. The FT report said, however, that the talks are in early stages and informal, indicating the company is still far from selecting its IPO underwriters. Anthropic is negotiating a private funding round that could give the startup a valuation exceeding US$300 billion (RM1.2 trillion), the report added. Dario Amodei-led Anthropic is projecting to more than double and potentially nearly triple its annualised revenue run rate to around US$26 billion next year. It has more than 300,000 business and enterprise customers. Microsoft-backed OpenAI, a major rival, is preparing for what could rank among the largest IPO ever, with a potential valuation of up to US$1 trillion. The firm is laying the groundwork to go public and may file with securities regulators as early as the second half of 2026, Reuters has reported. OpenAI’s chief financial officer, Sarah Friar, said later in November that a listing is not in the startup’s near-term plans. Last month, Microsoft and Nvidia announced plans to invest up to US$15 billion in Anthropic as the AI firm made a US$30 billion commitment to use Microsoft’s cloud services. Founded in 2021 by former OpenAI staff, Anthropic was recently valued at US$183 billion. – ReutersAmazon unveils new AI chip in battle against NvidiaSAN FRANCISCO: Amazon Web Services (AWS) launched its in-house-built Trainium3 AI chip on Tuesday, marking a significant push to compete with Nvidia in the lucrative market for artificial intelligence computing power. The move intensifies competition in the AI chip market, where Nvidia currently dominates with an estimated 80% to 90% market share for products used in training large language models that power the likes of ChatGPT. Google last week caused tremors in the industry when it was reported that Facebook-parent Meta would employ Google AI chips in data centers, signaling new competition for Nvidia, currently the world’s most valuable company and a bellwether for the AI investment frenzy. This followed the release of Google’s latest AI model last month that was trained using the company’s own in-house chips, not Nvidia’s. AWS, which will make the technology available to its cloud computing clients, said its new chip is lower cost than rivals and delivers over four times the computing performance of its predecessor while using 40% less energy. “Trainium3 offers the industry’s best price performance for large scale AI training and inference,” AWS CEO Matt Garman said at a launch event in Las Vegas. Inference is the execution phase of AI, where the model stops scouring the internet for training and starts performing tasks in real-world scenarios. Energy consumption is one of the major concerns about the AI revolution, with major tech companies having to scale back or pause their net-zero emissions commitments as they race to keep up on the technology. AWS said its chip can reduce the cost of training and operating AI models by up to 50 percent compared with systems that use equivalent graphics processing units, or GPUs, mainly from Nvidia. “Training cutting-edge models now requires infrastructure investments that only a handful of organizations can afford,” AWS said, positioning Trainium3 as a way to democratise access to high-powered AI computing. AWS said several companies are already using the technology, including Anthropic. AWS also announced it is already developing Trainium4, expected to deliver at least three times the performance of Trainium3 for standard AI workloads. The next-generation chip will support Nvidia’s technology, allowing it to work alongside that company’s servers and hardware. Amazon’s in-house chip development reflects a broader trend among cloud providers seeking to reduce dependence on external suppliers while offering customers more cost-effective alternatives for AI workloads.– AFPGerman economy in ‘deepest crisis’ of post-war eraFRANKFURT: Germany’s economy is suffering its “deepest crisis” since the aftermath of World War II, an industry group warned Tuesday, calling on Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s government to take urgent action to spark a revival. Europe’s biggest economy “is in free fall, but the federal government is not responding decisively enough”, said Peter Leibinger, president of the Federation of German Industries (BDI). Germany is facing a perfect storm: high energy costs burdening manufacturers, weak demand for its exports in key markets, the emergence of China as an industrial rival and the US tariff onslaught. It has suffered two years of recession and is forecast to eke out only meagre growth in 2025. Merz, who took power in May, has pledged to revive the eurozone’s traditional powerhouse, including through a public spending blitz on defence and infrastructure. But industry leaders are increasingly voicing frustration that the efforts are moving too slowly and are insufficient to tackle a host of deep-rooted problems, from chronic labour shortages to heavy bureaucratic burdens. “The economy is experiencing its deepest crisis since the founding of the federal republic, yet the federal government is not responding with sufficient determination,“ said Leibinger. “Germany now needs an economic policy turnaround with clear priorities for competitiveness and growth,” he added. Brian Fuerderer, head and founder of German high-tech surgical equipment maker Microqore Medical, agreed with the BDI’s assessment, saying the economy was being held back by overregulation and a lack of innovation. “In Germany, entrepreneurship as such no longer really exists,“ he told AFP. “The car manufacturers are no longer leaders ... And I think that’s where the first problem starts, that the spirit of innovation is no longer encouraged or desired.” In its latest report released on Tuesday, the BDI – an umbrella association for many industry federations – forecast that German factory output will fall 2% in 2025, which would mark its fourth consecutive year of contraction. Heavy industry, from car-making to producing factory equipment and steel, remains crucial to the German economy. The country is home to more than 100,000 manufacturing firms of varying sizes, employing over eight million people, according to the BDI. But there has been a steady drumbeat of layoff announcements in recent times, particularly in the crisis-stricken auto sector, including carmaker Volkswagen and parts supplier Bosch. Merz has defended his government’s actions, saying it will take time to get the economy back on track and pointing to reforms that have been enacted, including on lowering corporate income tax and reducing industry power costs. There is some light on the horizon. The economy is expected to start picking up speed next year, driven by the spending ramp-up, with the government forecasting 1.3% growth. In a statement to AFP, Germany’s leading industrial union, IG Metall, said that while the situation for German industry was “undoubtedly serious ... the whole picture is more varied than often portrayed”. In certain industries such as “aerospace, medical and energy technologies, railway manufacture and defence, things are on the whole good”, the union said, adding that sweeping tax cuts for business were not justified. Some hope that the thousands of jobs being axed in the auto and other industrial sectors could be replaced by new roles in defence companies, which are hiring rapidly as European countries rearm to face the growing Russian threat. But Hans Christoph Atzpodien, head of defence industry association BDSV, warned that the defence sector’s growth could only partially offset the losses at carmakers. – AFPCars stand ready for export at a parking of the Duisburg harbour, western Germany. – AFPPIC

BIZ & FINANCETHURSDAY | DEC 4, 202518 READ OUR HERE/thesun Malaysian PaperHANGZHOU: In China, AI glasses let the wearer pay in shops with just a glance at a QR code and a voice command, as a growing number of companies look to conquer both growing domestic and overseas markets. Interest in smart eyewear is soaring worldwide after more than a decade of stalled promise, with advances in artificial intelligence (AI) sparking a fresh boon for the sector. US giant Meta is the clear market leader, but a host of Chinese companies – from behemoths like Alibaba and Xiaomi to start-ups like Rokid and XREAL – have their sights set on catching up. “China’s advantages are self-evident,” Rokid CEO Misa Zhu told AFP after a recent launch in the eastern city of Hangzhou. “The ecosystem and its supply chain are all in China, and China produces a lot.” Domestically, Chinese companies have an undeniable edge – Meta’s services are blocked there, inaccessible without a VPN. The country is a potentially massive and lucrative market for wearable tech. Smart glasses sales are expected to have grown 116% there on-year in 2025, according to market intelligence provider IDC. Daily life is already highly digitalised, with even older citizens using smartphones for everything from payments to transport. China’s internet-based infrastructure such as QR payment codes in shops, is “already more developed than in Europe and the US”, said Zhu. Other Chinese companies like Xiaomi, RayNeo, Thunderobot and Kopin are active players in the smart glasses sector, wrote Flora Tang, an analyst at research firm Counterpoint. Xiaomi in particular was a “dark horse”, she said, its debut AI glasses the third best-selling of their kind for the first half of 2025 despite only being on sale for about a week. Interest is also being shown in smaller companies like Rokid, with the company raising more than US$4 million (RM17 million) on crowdfunding site Kickstarter recently. Rokid is “observing and learning... from big global companies”, CEO Zhu said. To straddle the domestic and overseas markets, the firm allows customers to use Chinese apps in China, and others elsewhere, unlike competitors like Meta, which limit the apps on offer. The Rokid glasses are not locked to one generative AI model, either. “We are very open that we use OpenAI, and can also connect with Llama, Gemini, and Grok,” Zhu said. “That’s why many people like us.” Another feature Rokid demonstrated in Hangzhou was simultaneous translation, featuring phosphor-green English subtitles that rolled across the glasses’ inner lenses as an employee talked in Chinese. But shattering Meta’s dominance overseas will be challenging. In the first half of 2025, Meta commanded a 73% share of the growing global smart glasses market, according to Counterpoint. Its success has been attributed to the RayBan Meta Smart Glasses, almost indistinguishable from everyday, and crucially fashionable, eyewear. In Hangzhou, Rokid unveiled new collaborations with Bolon, which is also owned by Ray-Ban’s parent company EssilorLuxottica. With weight also a crucial factor, Rokid says its models are among the world’s lightest. “Appearance remains the top priority – it has to make people actually want to wear it,” 25-year-old customer Wu Tianhao told AFP. Chinese firms showcase “numerous brands and models, rapid iteration, and ability to quickly adapt to market changes”, industry expert Zhu Dianrong said. However, “overseas brands still hold an advantage in hard tech like full-colour displays and optical waveguides”. Rokid’s vice-president Gary Cai acknowledged an “obvious gap” in chip technology available in China and overseas, but noted the difference between AI models “has narrowed considerably”. Despite interest in smart glasses rising, Chinese and foreign firms alike face major challenges ahead of widespread adoption. Across the board, the user experience needs more polish and accessibility, said Will Greenwald, writer for consumer electronics outlet PCMag. “I don’t think anyone has really made it a smooth experience just yet,” he told AFP. Privacy concerns remain a hurdle, with the ramifications of widely worn glasses discreetly and near-constantly recording throwing up potential regulatory pitfalls.Chinese smart glasses firms eye overseas conquestoRapid AI advances fuel global ambitions for China’s smart eyewear makersAirbus prepares A320 inspections as fuselage flaw hits deliveriesPARIS: Airbus engineers have found defects on a wider set of A320 fuselage panels as they prepare to inspect hundreds of jets for a flaw that the company’s CEO says is hurting deliveries. A presentation to airlines seen by Reuters showed that the total number of planes needing inspections for recently discovered quality problems on metal panels at the front of some planes was 628, including 168 already in service. This figure also includes 245 in assembly lines, according to the presentation, of which industry sources said about 100 are earmarked for delivery this year. A further 215 are in an earlier stage of production called Major Component Assembly.Additionally, some panels at the rear and other parts of the jet have been found to have similar thickness problems, though none are on planes currently in service, the presentation showed. “We confirm the population of aircraft potentially impacted is both in production and in service,“ an Airbus spokesman said, while declining to comment on specific figures. The detailed figures, earlier reported by Bloomberg, refer to the population of jets to be inspected, with instructions to be issued to airlines in coming days. Reuters first reported the industrial quality problem earlier this week. At the time, industry sources said it had already been discovered on several dozen undelivered planes. Unlike the emergency recall of thousands of Airbus A320s for a software change over the weekend, the fuselage problem is not being treated as an immediate safety matter, sources said. The data is evolving and decisions on how it might impact Airbus’s December deliveries will be taken in coming days, CEO Guillaume Faury told Reuters on Tuesday. He confirmed that deliveries had been hit by the issue during a “weak” November. Airbus is due to publish November data on Friday but Faury’s remarks leave a question mark over targets for the year, which some analysts have said look increasingly hard to reach. “We are assessing the situation ... and we are trying to understand the nature of the impact it has on our operations,“ Faury told Reuters, adding that more may be said in coming days. While one airline source estimated inspections would take a few hours, repairs are likely to take much longer. The Air Current reported that any repairs could take three to five weeks, raising the prospect of displacing work out of the usual sequence in a costly process needing more labour. The affected parts have the wrong thickness following a process of stretching and milling carried out by Seville-based Sofitec Aero, the presentation showed. The company – one of two suppliers for the affected parts – did not respond to several requests for comment. It was first identified by the Wall Street Journal. ASX outage deepens doubts over tech upgradeSYDNEY: The Australian Securities Exchange’s (ASX) technology turnaround plan, touted by the firm’s chair as being too important to fail, is facing questions from investors and market participants after it was hit by a fresh outage this week, the latest in a string of failures. About 80 companies with price-sensitive disclosures were placed in a trading halt on Monday after the ASX’s announcement platform collapsed, leaving hundreds of statements unable to be published. The disruption highlights reputational risks for ASX as it struggles to overhaul aging systems. The failure has raised questions about governance and operational resilience, issues that investors say are critical for maintaining market integrity. “It was, frankly, embarrassing, especially after the number of incidents they faced over the last 12 months,“ said Omkar Joshi, Opal Capital founder, an ASX market participant. “The reality is since we’re still seeing continued issues coming up, I think it’s very hard to say that they have actually succeeded in delivering anything just yet. But that doesn’t mean they can’t turn it around – but there is a fair bit of work to do.” The ASX said in a statement to Reuters that Monday’s outage, which was gradually restored during the trading session, was “related to a software deployment for a security upgrade”. “We are sorry for the disruption this caused and we have been following up with all affected companies to offer any further support and to listen and learn,“ the statement said. The ASX said it would also provide an incident report to the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC). The blunder was the latest misstep for ASX, which is already under investigation by the regulator. ASIC has questioned the ASX’s ability to provide secure and resilient critical market infrastructure. ASX chair David Clarke told the company’s annual meeting in Sydney in October a major turnaround plan to upgrade the exchange’s technology could not afford to fail. But less than two months on investors are wary if the ASX will be able to deliver on its promise to ease the regulatory burden the company is facing. “The outage is clearly disappointing and is probably just a continuation of some of the problems they’ve had in the past that they’re yet to get right,“ said Sean Sequeira, chief investment officer at Australian Eagle Asset Management, an ASX investor. “There’s a technology issue. It’s not a case of whether they’ll turn it around, it’s whether they’ll turn it around in an acceptable amount of time,“ he said. The ASX’s failed upgrade of its settlement system dates back more than nine years, and the exchange is being sued by ASIC for making misleading statements on technological progress during that time. A new clearing system will run on more advanced technology, replacing a three-decadeold system known as the Clearing House Electronic Subregister System (CHESS) which collapsed in 2024, stopping settlement of trades for a day. The first phase of the new system is due in the first half of 2026. Investors are banking on the upgrade to help ASX’s flagging fortunes. “Moving cash market clearing to a new platform de-risks part of ASX’s infrastructure and should allow ASX to demonstrate to regulators that it is strengthening operational resilience,“ said Greig Barrow, a portfolio manager at Akambo, an ASX investor. The upgrade is expected to cost up to A$445 million (RM1.2 billion), which comes after the ASX made a A$250 million writedown as it dumped its plan to replace its existing settlement system with blockchain technology. The ASX said it was continuing to make “strong progress” on the overhaul of its systems and Monday’s outage was an unrelated incident. Zhu speaking during a presentation event for the new Rokid glasses in collaboration with Bolon in Hangzhou. – AFPPIX

BIZ & FINANCETHURSDAY | DEC 4, 202519STOCKS CLOSING (RM) +/- (RM) VOLUME (’00) NESTLE 116.600 -3.600 1,332 F&N 35.120 -1.240 1,883 PETDAG 19.940 -0.720 5,695 KLCC 8.900 -0.280 1,243 PETGAS 17.480 -0.220 9,610 MI-C42 0.080 -0.170 1,500 PMETAL 6.700 -0.150 83,842 HSI-CWMA 0.140 -0.135 460 MAXIS 3.790 -0.120 39,335 PPB 9.980 -0.120 13,363 SPRITZER 2.920 -0.120 26,660 XPENG-C3 0.085 -0.115 20,000 SUNCON-C55 0.145 -0.105 1,800 HSI-CWMB 0.890 -0.100 2,140 KHIND 1.480 -0.100 497 HSI-CWME 0.760 -0.090 1,700 IHH 8.270 -0.090 46,626 HSI-CWMR 0.550 -0.085 12,582 HAPSENG 2.840 -0.080 4,313 MAYBANK 10.260 -0.080 93,029STOCKS CLOSING (RM) +/-(RM) +/-(%) VOLUME (’00)HSI-PWLG 0.155 +0.025 +19.23 3,269,989 HSI-CWK8 0.065 -0.020 -23.53 2,691,643 HSI-CWKH 0.135 -0.040 -22.86 1,715,476 HSI-PWL4 0.140 +0.020 +16.67 1,495,941 HSI-CWK3 0.145 -0.020 -12.12 1,232,759 TANCO 1.140 +0.030 +2.70 517,605 HSI-CWKO 0.175 -0.065 -27.08 436,153 CAPITALA 0.390 -0.010 -2.50 369,697 HSTECH-H35 0.200 +0.030 +17.65 323,960 VS 0.460 +0.015 +3.37 322,541 ZETRIX 0.815 -0.020 -2.40 307,649 D&O 0.835 +0.070 +9.15 274,442 FOODIE 0.340 -0.015 -4.23 244,817 PTRANS 0.265 -0.005 -1.85 242,587 BAUTO 0.725 +0.105 +16.94 241,586 LEFORM 0.175 - - 240,968 VELESTO 0.230 -0.010 -4.17 238,670 INARI 1.890 +0.010 +0.53 224,097 TWL 0.025 -0.005 -16.67 224,004 BAIDU-C4 0.155 -0.005 -3.13 211,848SUNBIZ presents a summary of the day’s trading activity on Bursa Malaysia and other markets in an easy to digest format.MARKET ROUND-UP: DEC 3[ Sources: Bursa Malaysia, Bernama, shareinvestor.com and websites DISCLAIMER: The data and reports are provided as a service to investors. Sun Media Corporation Sdn Bhd shall not be liable or responsible for any consequences resulting from usage of the information.Top 20 ActivesTop 20 Losers (By RM)Bursa IndicesINDEX CLOSING DAILY DAILY CHANGE CHANGE (%)DJIA (US) 47,474.46 185.13 0.39 S&P 500 (US) 6,829.37 16.74 0.25 NASDAQ (US) 23,413.67 137.75 0.59 NYSE (US) 21,650.48 -15.98 -0.07 EURO STOXX 50 (EUR) 5,713.83 27.66 0.49 FTSE 100 (UK) 9,700.84 -0.96 -0.01 DAX (GER) 23,808.78 97.92 0.41 NIKKEI 225 (JPN) 49,864.68 561.23 1.14 TOPIX INDEX (JPN) 3,334.32 -6.74 -0.2 HANG SENG INDEX (HK) 25,760.73 -334.32 -1.28 CSI 300 (CHN) 4,531.05 -23.29 -0.51 MSCI ASIA PACIFIC 223.32 0.54 0.24 SHANGHAI SE COM (CHN) 3,878.00 -19.71 -0.51 KOSPI INDEX (SK) 4,036.30 41.37 1.04 SENSEX INDEX (IND) 84,938.26 -200.01 -0.23 ASX 200 (AUS) 8,595.18 15.48 0.18 ALL ORDINARIES INDX (AUS) 8,894.20 16.71 0.19 FBM KLCI 1,622.84 -9.9 -0.61 STRAITS TIMES INDEX (S’PORE) 4,553.82 15.86 0.35 WTI (US$/BBL.) 59.05 0.41 0.7 BRENT (US$/BBL.) 62.82 0.37 0.59 GOLD (COMEX) (US$/T OZ) 4,237.60 16.8 0.4 SILVER (COMEX) (US$/T OZ) 58.77 0.06 0.11 PLATINUM (US$/T OZ) 1,648.90 4.58 0.28 COPPER (COMEX) (US CENTS/LB.) 530.5 6.2 1.18 COPPER 3MO (LME) (US$/MT) 11,145.00 -107 -0.95 CORN (US CENTS/BU.) 449.5 -0.5 -0.11 WHEAT (US CENTS/BU.) 541.75 0.75 0.14 SOYBEAN OIL (CBOT) (US CENTS/LB.) 1,128.75 4 0.36 COCOA (ICE) (US$/MT) 5,455.00 -101 -1.82 RUBBER (S’PORE) (US CENTS/KG) 170.9 -1 -0.58World Stocks/CommoditiesAs at 6pm, Dec 3STOCKS CLOSING (RM) +/- (%) VOLUME (’00) NIKKEI-HP 0.005 -85.71 1 NATGATE-CZ 0.005 -80.00 500 KLK-C40 0.010 -75.00 1,400 MI-C42 0.080 -68.00 1,500 INARI-C3R 0.020 -60.00 10,200 XPENG-C3 0.085 -57.50 20,000 MEITU-C1 0.020 -55.56 20,500 ARTRONIQ-WA 0.005 -50.00 223 COMFORT-WB 0.005 -50.00 2,728 FOCUS 0.005 -50.00 3,220 GIIB-WA 0.005 -50.00 1,000 HONGSENG 0.005 -50.00 9,271 PHB 0.005 -50.00 28,672 HSI-CWMA 0.140 -49.09 460 SUNWAY-C41 0.045 -47.06 350 HSI-PWLQ 0.030 -45.46 502 SUNCON-C55 0.145 -42.00 1,800 IJM-C1Q 0.015 -40.00 2,350 PETDAG-C14 0.015 -40.00 1,500 SUNCON-C53 0.090 -40.00 1,010Top 20 Losers (By %)STOCKS CLOSING (RM) +/- (RM) VOLUME (’00) MPI 32.580 +1.240 3,426 ALLIANZ 20.500 +0.600 2,830 UTDPLT 28.540 +0.540 5,594 ALLIANZ-PA 20.500 +0.460 147 DIN045801028 102.400 +0.300 2 KESM 3.130 +0.270 1,086 SCICOM 1.480 +0.260 80,928 IDEAL 3.650 +0.250 1 CHINTEK 11.020 +0.220 210 BIPORT 5.490 +0.200 101 HEIM 22.680 +0.180 1,091 HLBANK 21.320 +0.180 6,847 UNISEM 3.280 +0.180 16,951 KOBAY 1.740 +0.140 31,520 VITROX 4.280 +0.130 9,655 AJI 13.800 +0.120 175 HLFG 17.740 +0.120 1,250 SUNWAY 5.420 +0.120 52,972 HSI-PWL9 1.530 +0.110 800 MSNIAGA 1.230 +0.110 236Top 20 Gainers (By RM)STOCKS CLOSING (RM) +/- (%) VOLUME (’00) BAUTO-C51 0.075 +275.00 4,435 BAUTO-C48 0.030 +200.00 4,500 BAUTO-C49 0.045 +200.00 28,215 BAUTO-C45 0.010 +100.00 1 HSI-PWLX 0.010 +100.00 500 SCBUILD 0.010 +100.00 2,502 SNTORIA 0.020 +100.00 177,299 BAUTO-C50 0.075 +87.50 4,113 BAUTO-C52 0.075 +87.50 5,060 NDX-CN 0.140 +75.00 60 BAUTO-C53 0.145 +70.59 2,100 PCHEM-C1K 0.025 +66.67 30,055 PCHEM-C1P 0.025 +66.67 600 E&O-C23 0.030 +50.00 268 HARTA-C3A 0.015 +50.00 612 MLAB-WD 0.015 +50.00 18,500 TAWIN 0.015 +50.00 547 KGB-CY 0.110 +46.67 4,350 LHI-C31 0.050 +42.86 5,200 D&O-C21 0.035 +40.00 16,750Top 20 Gainers (By %)INDEX CHANGEFBMEMAS 12,001.76 -29.53 FBMKLCI 1,622.84 -7.76 CONSUMER PRODUCTS 530.93 -5.07 INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTS 166.04 +0.08 CONSTRUCTION 305.91 -1.74 FINANCIAL SERVICES 19,109.06 -1.92 ENERGY 749.95 -0.46 TELECOMMUNICATIONS 476.88 -3.65 HEALTH CARE 1,532.12 +24.22 TRANSPORTATION 1,005.20 -5.04 PROPERTY 1,062.12 +0.27 PLANTATION 8,098.07 +6.97 FBMSHA 11,816.38 -31.74 FBMACE 4,810.09 +29.22 TECHNOLOGY 57.09 +0.89 TURNOVER: 3.282 bil VALUE: RM2.296 bil1,622.84 pts Dec 3, 2025Bursa Malaysia snaps two-day rally on profit-takingBURSA Malaysia snapped its two-day rally to close lower yesterday, as investors engaged in profit-taking amid a more cautious trading tone, mirroring the mostly downbeat performance of regional peers. At 5pm, the FBM KLCI eased 7.76 points, or 0.48%, to 1,622.84 from Tuesday’s close of 1,630.60. The benchmark index, which opened 0.86 of-a-point higher at 1,631.46, moved between 1,617.79 and 1,632.95 throughout the day. However, the broader market was positive, with advancers beating decliners 584 to 523. A total of 541 counters were unchanged, 1,056 untraded, and seven suspended. IPPFA Sdn Bhd director of investment strategy and country economist Mohd Sedek Jantan said that telecommunications and media counters led the declines among index constituents, while industrial products and services counters emerged as the main gainers. “Although 22 component stocks ended in negative territory, the benchmark index remains positive on a week-to-date basis,” he told Bernama. Among the heavyweights, Public Bank added 3 sen to RM4.44, Tenaga Nasional rose 10 sen to RM12.84, Maybank eased 8 sen to RM10.26, CIMB slid 5 sen to RM7.95, and IHH Healthcare slid 9 sen to RM8.27. On the most active list, Tanco gained 3 sen to RM1.14, D&O Green Technologies perked up 7 sen to 83.5 sen, Capital A erased 1 sen to 39 sen, and V.S. Industry put on 1.5 sen to 46 sen. Top gainers included Malaysian Pacific Industries added RM1.24 to RM32.58, KESM industries gained 27 sen to RM3.13, Scicom (MSC) soared 26 sen to RM1.48, Ideal Capital increased 25 sen to RM3.65, and Chin Teck Plantations was 22 sen higher at RM11.02. -26.3942.67%38.21%19.12%-24.07+50.463-Dec-2025

BIZ & FINANCETHURSDAY | DEC 4, 202520SUNBIZ presents extracts of a selection of commentaries and research reports received from stockbrokers on counters that could be of interest to investors.[Compiled by SunBiz Team DISCLAIMER: The information is extracted from stockbrokers’ commentaries and research reports and do not represent the views or opinions of Sun Media Corporation Sdn Bhd. It is not a solicitation, recommendation or an offer to buy or sell the equities featured. Sun Media Corporation shall not be liable or responsible for any consequences resulting from usage of the information.FOREIGN CURRENCY SELLING TT/OD BUYING TT BUYING OD 1 US Dollar 4.2000 4.0520 4.0420 1 Australian Dollar 2.7630 2.6500 2.6340 1 Brunei Dollar 3.2350 3.1310 3.1230 1 Canadian Dollar 2.9980 2.9120 2.9000 1 Euro 4.8790 4.7190 4.6990 1 New Zealand Dollar 2.4130 2.3220 2.3060 1 Singapore Dollar 3.2350 3.1310 3.1230 1 Sterling Pound 5.5460 5.3660 5.3460 1 Swiss Franc 5.2570 5.0300 5.0150 100 UAE Dirham 115.4200 109.3600 109.1600 100 Bangladesh Taka 3.5060 3.2500 3.0500 100 Chinese Renminbi 59.6600 57.0900 N/A 100 Danish Krone 66.9600 61.5800 61.3800 100 Hongkong Dollar 54.3900 51.6500 51.4500 100 Indian Rupee 4.7600 4.4200 4.2200 100 Indonesian Rupiah 0.0264 0.0233 0.018 100 Japanese Yen 2.7140 2.5880 2.5780 100 New Taiwan Dollar N/A N/A N/A 100 Norwegian Krone 42.5200 39.0100 38.8100 100 Pakistan Rupee 1.5600 1.3900 1.1900 100 Philippine Peso 7.2600 6.8200 6.6200 100 Qatar Riyal 116.2100 110.3200 110.1200 100 Saudi Riyal 112.8100 107.0900 106.8900 100 South Africa Rand 25.3500 22.8800 22.6800 100 Sri Lanka Rupee 1.4300 1.2500 1.0500 100 Swedish Krona 45.8600 41.7400 41.5400 100 Thai Baht 13.6800 12.1200 11.7200Exchange Rates Source: Malayan Banking Bhd/BernamaRinggit hits 14-month high as US dollar weakensSofter cocoa prices to boost chocolate demandKUALA LUMPUR: Berjaya Research Sdn Bhd expects chocolate demand to recover as domestic cocoa prices ease from the elevated levels seen in 2024, when record-high global prices pushed manufacturers to cut cocoa usage. With the cooling price trend, the firm also expects Guan Chong Bhd’s (GCB) gearing ratio to gradually decline, assuming lower working capital needs as cocoa prices normalise. “These factors should be resolved over time, supporting a gradual improvement in margins,” analyst Jessie Chai said. Berjaya Research raised its 2025 revenue forecast for GCB by 1.3% due to higher selling prices, but maintained its 2026 projection. However, it cut its 2025/26 earnings forecasts by 21.1% and 33.8% respectively, due to higher financing costs and weaker processing-margin assumptions. GCB’s nine-month 2025 earnings came in below expectations, meeting only 60.3% of the firm’s full-year estimate, despite revenue hitting 100% of its projection. The earnings shortfall was mainly driven by margin compression and higher borrowing costs. Berjaya Research reiterated its “Buy” call on GCB with a lower target price of RM1.22, expecting a recovery in chocolate consumption as cocoa bean prices soften, alongside a gradual improvement in processing margins. The firm continues to favour GCB for its position as the world’s fourth-largest cocoa grinder, its ongoing capacity expansion, and its established relationships with major multinational clients. Key downside risks include higher-than-expected input and energy costs, lower production volume, and a tight cocoa supply due to adverse weather and crop disease.MARKETS/FROM THE BROKERS THE ringgit jumped to a fresh 14-month high against the greenback yesterday, hitting 4.1200 at the close as the continued anticipation of an interest rate cut by the US Federal Reserve (Fed) next week weighed on the dollar. At 6pm, the ringgit advanced to 4.1200/1235 versus the greenback compared to Tuesday’s close of 4.1275/1330. The local currency beat the previous high recorded on Sept 30, 2024, when it closed at 4.1210 against the greenback. Bank Muamalat Malaysia Bhd chief economist Dr Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid said the expectation of an interest rate cut by the Fed next week has clearly resulted in a stronger ringgit as the decision will narrow the gap in the rate differential between the Fed funds rate and Malaysia’s overnight policy rate. “Based on the interest rate futures contract, the probability of an (US) interest rate cut next week has gone up to more than 90 per cent at the moment,” he told Bernama. At the close, the ringgit trended lower against major currencies. It fell versus the British pound to 5.4697/4744 from 5.4524/4597 at Tuesday’s close, slid against the euro to 4.7982/8022 from 4.7920/7984, and edged down vis-à-vis the Japanese yen to 2.6476/6501 from 2.6463/6500. However, the local note traded mostly higher against Asean currencies. It gained versus the Singapore dollar to 3.1810/1839 from 3.1816/1861 at Tuesday’s close, climbed against the Indonesian rupiah to 247.7/248.1 from 248.2/248.7, and was higher against the Philippine peso at 6.99/7.00 from 7.05/7.06 on Tuesday.ON Dec 2, SDG and its partners, ECW and PDT, have agreed to amend the shareholding proportions in Eco Business Park 8 (EBP8) SB. Under the new agreement, the partners agreed that PDT shall retain a 10% stake in EBP8, while SDG and ECW shall hold 45% each (from 10%:25%:65%). This mutual agreement between the shareholders to amend and restate the Share Sales Agreement (SSA) reflects SDG’s confidence in the strength of EBP8 and positive long-term view on the prospects of Iskandar Malaysia – which is part of the strategic Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone. Recall that EBP8 has earlier entered into a conditional SPA with SDG as the vendor. Pursuant to the SPA, SDG shall dispose 941.821 acres (of which 6.58 acres will be surrendered to the relevant authorities) of freehold land located in Kulai, Johor for RM814.8 million cash or RM20psf. To be known as EBP8, the development is envisaged to be implemented over 10 years with a preliminary GDV of RM3.75 billion. The project would feature a mix of industrial lots, ready-built factories, and commercial components, tailored to growth sectors such as electrical and electronics, logistics, advanced materials, and clean technology. Subject to the SPA being unconditional, SDG is now expected to record a lower gain on disposal (after tax and expenses) of RM364 million (previously RM526 million) in 2H’26 for this land disposal (after deducting 45% of unrealised deferred profits for the 45% JV stake SDG owns).BUY with RM5.75 TP. – Maybank Investment Bank, Dec 3ACCORDING to S&P Global, global offshore capex is projected to rise steadily, reaching US$211 billion by 2029 (from about US$150 billion in 2026). This investment upcycle is expected to lead to a FPSO supercycle – in which MISC is looking to be a part of, in our view. S&P Global is also expecting 8, 12 and 9 FPSO awards in 2026-2028, with large scale projects focused in South America and Asia-Pacific. Upstream Online has reported that MISC is either preparing or is already in the process of bidding for multiple FPSO projects globally, namely: i) Albacora FPSO for Petrobras; ii) Sergipe-Alagoas Deepwater project alongside South Korea’s Hanwha Ocean, which could house 2 FPSOs for Petrobras; and iii) FPSO Sepat for Petronas. We believe MISC would unlikely take on more than one project at a time to avoid stretching its balance sheet capacity and project management bandwidth. But this signals that MISC is actively looking for growth in its Offshore segment after Mero 3 successfully achieved first oil in Oct 2024, which we view positively. We have updated MISC’s ESG score and have assigned an average score of 65 (out of 100), against a previous score of 67 (in FY23). The slight decline was mainly due to: i) a decline in fleet carbon intensity efficiency ratio; and ii) an increase in fleet garbage generation per vessel. However, we highlight notable improvements in Scope 1, 2 & 3 emissions, which is a positive, in our view.HOLD with RM8.22 TP. – Maybank Investment Bank, Dec 3AWC Bhd is an established engineering services group specialising in integrated facilities management, with core strengths spanning building maintenance, automated waste collection systems, mechanical and electrical (M&E) engineering, and rail-related infrastructure works, serving a diverse client base across Malaysia, Singapore, and the Middle East. Backed by its extensive portfolio in facility services and integrated facilities management, the company has firmly solidified its position as one of the top facilities management players in the country. AWC announced that its wholly owned subsidiary Trackwork & Supplies Sdn Bhd, has signed and accepted a Letter of Acceptance from Prasarana Malaysia Bhd for the replacement of aluminium composite power conductor rails for LRT Ampang Line. The contract, valued at RM60 million, covers the full scope of supply, installation, testing, and commissioning works in accordance with Prasarana’s technical specifications. We view this contract win as a positive development for AWC, as it further reinforces the group’s well-established track record and capabilities in rail infrastructure works. Assuming a conservative NP margin of ~10%, the extension is expected to contribute around RM6 million to earnings during the period. Moving forward, the group aspires to position itself as the industry benchmark, leading the way by setting higher standards in sustainability and operational performance.BUY with RM0.66 TP. – Malacca Securities, Dec 3AWC Bhd Buy. Target price: RM0.66SD Guthrie Bhd Buy. Target price: RM5.75Source: Maybank Investment Bank Source: Maybank Investment Bank Source: Malacca SecuritiesMISC Bhd Hold. Target price: RM8.22Dec 3, 2025: RM5.26 Dec 3, 2025: RM7.47Dec 3, 2025: RM0.605

Wet weather voyagers Easy methods to keep your home pest-free. Easy methods to keep your home pest-free. – P22 p23 Christmas decor razzle dazzle at local malls p24 1 Utama launches glass recycling campaign p25 Beauty hub cum haircare salon goes premiumTHURSDAY | DEC 4, 2025EditorialT: 03-7784 6688 F: 03-7785 2625 E: [email protected] AdvertisingT: 03-7784 8888 E: [email protected] SCAN MEWEEKLYFOCUSMONDAYTechnology and social mediaTUESDAYFamily and parentingWEDNESDAYFashion and beautyTHURSDAYHomeand livingFRIDAYTravel and leisureSATURDAYFood and beverage– 123RFPIC

LYFETHURSDAY | DEC 4, 202522Unwanted rainy day visitorsWHEN the rains come, pests go on the offence as homes become safe havens for mosquitoes, cockroaches, rats and termites, especially in climates like ours. Rain brings moisture, flooding and damp soil. Such conditions push pests to seek dry shelter, food and safe breeding grounds. Before we get into the “how”, let us look at the “why” that brings about those unwanted visitors. As the saying goes, when it Stagnant water in unused plant pots, water basins and pails will quickly become a mosquito breeding ground. oSimple steps to avoid pest infestationŰ BY MARK MATHEN VICTORFloods create ideal conditions for pests to breed and increase. – ALL PICS FROM FREEPIKSimilar to human displacement, heavy rain will flood ant nests, causing them to move to higher ground, such as human homes.rains, it pours and in a tropical country like Malaysia, heavy rains are a norm and with the poor general civic sense, the downpour and clogged drains will lead to stagnant water, which is ideal for mosquito eggs and larvae to thrive. The moisture and damp soil will then affect the movement of pests into indoor areas for shelter, as rain tends to flush pests from their underground nests into homes, garages or drain systems. Left unchecked, these pests will not only annoy, but also cause property damage and prove risky to human health. Here is how you can limit the risk in your home during the current Northeast Monsoon season, even when you have many things on your plate.Quick prevention ideasStart by removing stagnant water. Buckets, plant pots, trays and outdoor containers fill up quickly during the rainy season. Mosquitoes breed in still water, so tipping these out regularly is one of the fastest and most effective ways to cut mosquito numbers around your home. Clear drains and gutters weekly. Leaves and debris clog up easily during wet weather, causing water to gather. That pooled water attracts pests and can also push them toward the house when drains overflow. Trim the bushes and overgrowth around the house and tidy up the surrounding areas. Overgrown plants, fallen leaves and stacked wood create shelter for pests and give them easy access to your home’s wall fences. A quick weekly tidy-up helps reduce hiding spot. Make early checking for signs of pests a good habit. Look under sinks, behind appliances and near drainage points. Spotting trails, droppings or damaged wood early will help you deal with the issue while still small and avoid a fullblown infestation, that would demand more intensive action. Alternative pest controlSeal cracks and gaps along windows, vents, walls and doors. Even small openings allows cockroaches, termites and rats to enter. Spend a few minutes checking the areas that you pass daily like the kitchen, bathrooms and balcony doors and close any obvious gaps with basic sealant which can be readily found online and in hardware stores everywhere. Store food and waste properly. Use airtight containers for dry goods and leftovers and keep trash bins covered. Food left uncovered overnight – or even during the day –draws pests quickly, especially when humidity rises indoors after rain. Keep ventilation strong and reduce dampness wherever you can. Damp corners, bathrooms and under-sink areas attract cockroaches and termites. Use fans to move air, wipe down wet surfaces and open windows when possible to dry indoor spaces. Last but not least, if you see repeated signs like rat droppings, termite mud tunnels or more than usual number of mosquitoes, consider engaging a professional pest control service. They have the tools and expertise to prevent reinfestation and treat deeply hidden nests.

LYFETHURSDAY | DEC 4, 202523One Utama Shopping CentreSaunter through the Shimmerway and step into an enchanting realm of crystallised winter landscape, where beyond the shimmering icy walls of the dazzling walkway stands a 35-foot tall Crystal Sanctum, its heart aglow with a magical core. Make a wish and gaze upon the majestic Pegasus with its carriage in waiting and journey on to witness towering white Christmas trees that bring together a joyful and unforgettable festive experience. Beyond the mist sits the Cascade Hall where a curtain of glistening water and melody dances in the air, guiding visitors to the Crystal Sphere where one can dream and feel the quiet pulse of winter’s harmony all around.Classic Christmas decorations fill up the stairway in Pavilion Kuala Lumpur.Renaissance and Greek-themed decoration brings a romantic mood to Christmas.North Pole-inspired decorations will make both kids and adults excited for Christmas.CHRISTMAS MALL DECORPavilion Kuala LumpurThe Centre Court has transformed into a Christmas Musical Carousel, where the season’s most enchanting story unfolds beneath the glow of the Christmas star. As this celestial beacon rises, it brings with it waves of shimmering aurora light that illuminates the area, creating a sanctuary of clarity and inspiration. Here, the Christmas Star does not merely shine, it opens pathways for fresh ideas to take form, creativity to flourish and for hopeful beginnings to emerge. This luminous installation, adorned with gold sequins, cascading curtain lights and brilliant LED displays, becomes a place of renewal where visitors can step forward feeling refreshed and uplifted, ready for new stories to begin. Four whimsical Christmas tales come to life through enchanting musical performances. Guests will discover Santa in style arriving in a majestic vintage luxury ride piled high with sparkling gifts, The Woodland Chorus performing around a glinting white piano with creatures adorned in red ribbons and musicians dressed in golden coats, The Penguin Chorus waddling onto a golden stage in bow ties and top hats beneath towering Christmas trees and The Polar Bear Chorus taking center stage in glittering coats, filling the air with warm harmonies. Together, these singing animals and their captivating performances transformed the mall into a festive haven where the spirit of the season truly comes alive.The Gardens MallWander through an enchanting estate garden emanating with the soft glows of the floral-draped chandeliers, with snowcoloured doves fluttering about. Elegantly adorned and brimming with festive splendour all ready for Christmas. Decked with sculpted evergreens, artistic topiaries and muted jewel toned florals cascading from ornate gazebos and majestic arch gates. The Christmas performances include a Santa and Ms Claus meet and greet, a Noel Rendition and The Twinkling of Keys.Sunway VelocityImagine stepping into a space where soft textures, twinkling lights and the gentle hum of festive music come together to wrap you in warmth and cheer. Visitors will be welcomed into immersive, cosy-themed installations brought to life by plush materials, whimsical characters and heartwarming experiences. From creative workshops to meaningful acts of giving, Cozy Cozy Christmas invites everyone to slow down, reconnect and rediscover the comforting magic of Christmas. Inspired by the global “kidult” trend that celebrates playful nostalgia and collectibles that are both cute and comforting. Plush and cosy Christmas vibes, perfect for family outings.Genting Winter WonderlandThe heart of the celebration comes alive at Kimhua Atrium, kicking off with daily dance shows. Starting Dec 19, the excitement builds with appearances by Jolly Jumbos & The Twinkles, The Enchanted Noel, the Christmas choir and a ventriloquism show (Dec 24, 25 and 31). The atrium will shimmer with a whimsical showcase of colour and light featuring a giant carousel, stacks of presents and sparkling Christmas trees. Beyond the atrium, free-entry zones along Gohtong Way and Liberty Lane extend the festive magic with live entertainment, games, shopping and plenty of delicious bites.Pavilion Damansara HeightsThe mall bloomed into a radiant wonderland featuring elegant installations, festive performances, curated gift inspirations and new retail openings. At the heart of the celebration lies a partnership with L’Occitane en Provence, marking the brand’s first Christmas takeover in Malaysia, a collaboration that brings the soul of Haute Provence to the mall. Together, they present The Light Catcher, a magnificent centrepiece inspired by the Provençal landscape and its iconic houses, designed to evoke the warmth, serenity and light of Provence during the festive season.Experience the magical feeling of snow.The lush and luxurious decorations are eye-catching in its own ways.IOI City MallThe Christmas Trojan Horse is a geometric sculpture that offers a fresh and whimsical take on holiday decor that celebrates strength, unity and togetherness. Visitors can enjoy a kaleidoscope of festive entertainment such as illusion and stage magic, bubble violinists, Santa and Elves appearances, Christmas carols and Enchanted Toy Town through Jan 4, 2026. The mall will also showcase a Merry Symphony Parade at Symphony Walk, as well as Melodies of Christmas for vocal and piano performances at LG East Court and GF West Court on selected dates. Get into the holiday mood with cosy and homey decorations.Lalaport BBCCIn the coming five weeks, Pokemon takes centre stage at LaLaport BBCC with Pikachu being the main highlight of the event. Every weekend, fans can meet Pikachu up close during meetand-greet sessions and catch the walkabout appearances around the mall, spreading smiles and spontaneous fun. LaLaport BBCC has introduced a fun quest to hunt for Pokemon throughout the mall, to entice shoppers with a little holiday adventure. Shoppers and visitors can embark on an exciting Pokemon Sticker Collection quest, where eight different Pokemon stickers will be available each week and must be collected from a different set of eight participating outlets.Pokemon decorations for Christmas.

LYFETHURSDAY | DEC 4, 202524/theSunMediaFOLLOW ON YOUTUBE/Malaysian PaperNew life for every glass 1 UTAMA SHOPPING CENTREhas launched its glass recycling campaign for both its shoppers and retail mall tenants, by introducing the mall’s first integrated glass recovery system. The campaign is the latest community-focused recycling initiative to be introduced as part of the mall’s one-stop recycling hub 1Recycling Centre (1RC), which currently accepts recycling categories such as e-waste, PET beverage plastic bottles, aluminium drink cans, paper, paper bags, carton boxes, fabric, clothes, bags, toys, landyards and textiles. With glass being included, 1RC is now one of the most comprehensive recycling hubs in a Malaysian shopping centre. 1 Utama has partnered with Eurocham Malaysia, which brings industry advocacy and sustainability alignment to the collaboration, along with Glass Loop, a local circularity initiative dedicated to building functional glass recovery systems. Under this partnership, the mall provides infrastructure and operational support, Glass Loop manages collection and downstream recycling through licensed Malaysian processors and Eurocham Malaysia expands awareness and industry alignment, positioning the campaign in the retail sector, as a model for scalable sustainability. The Housing and Local Glass remains one of the most underrecycled materials, despite being 100% and infinitely recyclable.oShopping mall launches recycling campaign modelled around scalable sustainability Nationwide soft-toy initiative supporting children’s learning journeyTHE savannah lands in Malaysia as Ikea introduces Sandlopare, a new children’s collection designed to encourage curiosity and care for endangered animals through storytelling and imaginative play. To celebrate the launch, Ikea Malaysia is rolling out a series of family-friendly activities across all stores until Dec 7. Inspired by the adventurous African savannah, the collection was developed in collaboration with the Swedish wildlife conservation centre Nordens Ark. Featuring a variety of 29 products, Sandlopare brings uniquely designed and affordable soft toys, textiles and play furniture that transforms everyday life at home into immersive play experiences. Children get to reimagine stools as zebras, role play as a cheetah with a bath robe, or turn the entire bedroom into a savannah campsite. Building on this belief in equal access to imagination and learning, Ikea Malaysia is teaming up with Teach For Malaysia (TFM) to ensure play makes a difference beyond the home. Ikea Malaysia will donate RM1 to TFM for every soft-toy purchased during the campaign period until Dec 27. The eligible ranges include Sandlopare and all other Ikea stuffed plushies, such as the Fabler Bjorn teddy bear, Kramig panda, Blahaj shark, Blavingad ocean animals, Aftonsparv space-themed collections and more. All contributions will support TFM’s fellowship programme, a twoyear leadership development programme that recruits and places outstanding graduates and young professionals in high-need schools across Malaysia. The programme develops leaders who expand access to quality education for students while driving community-based projects alongside the schools they serve. This initiative champions the importance of play and equal access to education for all children. The Sandlopare soft toys are also made of 100% recycled materials, including the filling, skins, threads and reinforcements. In the development of soft toys, quality examination is of utmost importance. They all undergo rigorous testing before reaching the stores. There are pull tests, testing for chemicals and durability as well as multiple rounds in the washing machine, to ensure that each soft toy keeps its shape. To bring the spirit of the savannah even closer to families, Ikea Malaysia is also launching a Sandlopare Safari, which includes activity points, creative play stations and an immersive safari train experience in selected Ikea stores every weekend until Dec 7. Fabler Bjorn teddy bear, Kramig panda, Blahaj shark, Blavingad ocean animals and Aftonsparv space-themed collections are some of the soft-toys involved in Ikea’s initiative.Government Ministry is developing the national framework to extended producer responsibility, which will require major commercial properties, including shopping malls, to provide adequate recycling facilities for key materials. While most malls already collect paper, metals and plastic, glass remains one of the most underrecycled materials, despite being 100% and infinitely recyclable. 1 Utama’s introduction of mallwide glass recycling facilities positions it ahead of upcoming regulations and helps prepare both shoppers and tenants for more circular waste practices. To ensure glass recycling becomes smooth and accessible, the mall has provided facilities such as: 0 Dedicated public-use glass recycling bins @ 1Recycling Centre (B2 Highstreet) • Bins are equipped with Smart Sensors to monitor bin levels in real time. Shoppers may drop off clean glass bottles and jars to give glass a second life. • Opening hours: 10am to 10pm daily 0 Tenant-use glass recycling bins @ Refuse Chamber (GF Centre Court) • Dedicated tenant-use bins at the Refuse Chamber allows tenants to conveniently dispose of operational glass waste generated daily. • Early tenant adopters of proper glass disposal practices include F&B tenants such as Ante, Since 1939 and Wonjo Buanjib BBQ which have actively embraced the system and setting a strong example for the wider tenant community. • Opening hours: 24 hours daily Once collected, glass enters a fully local and traceable recycling stream. It is transported to the Sri Pushpam plant in Shah Alam for colour sorting and cleaning, before being sent to OIBJC Glass Malaysia in Johor Bahru, a leading glass packaging manufacturer. There, the cullet is melted and remade into new bottles and containers, which re-enter the Malaysian market, effectively closing the loop on postconsumer glass. The mall has already collected 1,509kg of glass waste, diverting it from landfills, since the campaign’s soft launch in October last year. Sandlopare, a new children’s collection designed to encourage storytelling imaginative play.Ikea seeks to use soft-toys to encourage curiosity and care for endangered animals.

LYFETHURSDAY | DEC 4, 202525Reimagining beauty hubsDOUBLE The Hairpy Space, located along Jalan Utara and near The Exchange TRX, brings together top local and international stylists as a new go-to destination for expertdriven and premium hair care. The new salon is born from the works of two joint venture partners Hair Porter Salon and Wenawave Salon, known for their hair care services and scalp health experts to provide an unforgettable salon experience, all in one convenient hub. The 12,000 sq ft two-storey space is a RM4 million investment that transformed from a onceabandoned bungalow into a sleek urban beauty destination, reflecting both creativity and vision. The original structure has been reimagined to retain the charm of the old building while introducing modern elements that elevate the experience, earning them a gold winner award for ATAP Best Design Concept (Commercial). What now stands is a bright, spacious sanctuary where industrial textures meet warm and minimalist touches, offering clients a setting that feels both stylish and soothing. The flagship salon features 39 stylist chairs and sunlit interiors create a welcoming atmosphere from the moment guests step inside and the open-concept workstations encourage interaction between stylists and clients while still offering privacy and comfort. Dedicated corners for scalp analysis, hair treatments and beauty services introduce a lifestyle-forward dimension to the salon. The overall layout expresses Double The Hairpy Space’s growing vision to redefine what a salon visit should feel like. Instead of a routine appointment, the brand aims to provide an immersive retreat where guests can unwind, transform and recharge. With the salon’s larger footprint, the team can now offer a wider range of services under one roof. From specialised scalp therapies to premium colour work, styling and restorative treatments, it is equipped to handle full hair transformations. Beauty-focused services such as manicures and eyelash extensions further enhance the experience for those seeking a comprehensive makeover. Despite the expansion, Double The Hairpy Space maintains its signature cosy atmosphere, ensuring that the environment feels intimate even at its grandest scale. Inclusivity also plays a core role in the salon’s identity. The salon features a Muslimah-friendly private room on the upper floor, providing a comfortable space for Muslim customers who prefer added privacy The salon serves as a complete one-stop beauty centre where guests can enjoy hair, scalp and beauty services under one roof. oDouble The Hairpy Space opens in Kuala Lumpur, offers premium hair care services Ű BY ASHIQIN AHMADThe management of Double The Hairpy Space, comprising representatives from Hair Porter Salon and Wenawave Salon, attends the opening ceremony of the beauty hub.The launch event is enlivened with a cheeky lion dance performance.Open hair dressing station on the lower ground, a space where hair transformation awaits.A team of professional stylists and beauty specialists are on hand to welcome guests and showcase the salon’s expanded services. during their treatments. “We also have a Muslimahfriendly private room for our Muslim customers who want to experience self care worry-free. Inclusivity will always be our priority and it was important for us to implement this step to accommodate Malaysia’s diverse religious backgrounds and ensure a safe space for all our customers,” said Hair Porter Salon founder Kowa Yap. Founders and stylists behind Double The Hairpy Space shared their reflections on the journey from their first outlet to now anchoring themselves in one of Kuala Lumpur’s most iconic neighbourhoods. The decision to open in Kuala Lumpur was made with intention and longterm vision. As the founder explained, being located in a district filled with cultural, commercial and lifestyle activity places the salon at the heart of the city’s evolving beauty scene. “We chose this location because it offers a sweeping view of TRX. In many cities around the world, iconic landmarks naturally become part of the experience, drawing people in and creating a sense of place. We wanted to bring that same feeling to Malaysia. Here, clients can unwind, enjoy their treatments and feel connected to the vibrancy of Kuala Lumpur at the same time,” said Wenawave Salon director Yen Lim. As Kuala Lumpur continues evolving into a style and lifestyle destination, Double The Hairpy Space positions itself as a new go-to for those seeking expert care with a contemporary touch. The salon’s polished design, expanded offerings and location illustrate how far the brand has come since a decade ago and where it is headed next. For the founders and their clients, the opening represents more than a physical expansion. It is a celebration of progress, creativity and the commitment to shaping a modern hair experience for the next generation of customers. With its newest flagship salon in Kuala Lumpur, Double The Hairpy Space steps confidently into its next chapter, ready to welcome visitors who seek a beauty experience that blends comfort, expertise and urban sophistication. For a limited time, the salon is offering the Trio Treats beauty package, which includes a Somnus spa wash, a one-time gel manicure and a one-time eyelash extension for only RM399. The promotion ends on Dec 20 and the services can be redeemed before Jan 15, 2026.

LYFETHURSDAY | DEC 4, 202526Skibidi, 6-7 make AFP lexicon list FROM 6-7 to skibidi and delulu, 2025 was the year when Generation Alpha slang entered everyday language and dictionaries with a vandetta. But the digital native children of the 21st century had to compete with a plethora of tech terms – not to mention, President Donald Trump, who also exerted his inescapable influence. Here is an AFP selection of five words of the year: 6-7The nonsense term from a meme using the song Doot Doot (6 7) by the US rapper Skrilla was inspired by the basketball player LaMelo LaFrance Ball, who is six foot seven inches tall. The song spread like wildfire on Instagram and TikTok, spawning its own hand gestures and became so annoying – and ubiquitous – that it was reportedly banned in some o Words of the year take on new meaningParis’s arthouse cinemas adapt to battle waning number of audiencesOne of the screens can, within an hour, be turned into a reception room able to host up to 200 people. To suit the upmarket neighbourhood, they carried out high-end renovations and created a “luxury cinema” with carefully designed interiors at a cost of nearly 2.3 million euros (RM11.34 million). “It was unthinkable to see a cinema close on the ChampsElysées,” he added, saying that maintaining culture on the famous avenue was an “activist” action. Their project forms part of the current trend of converting cinemas into premium venues, offering high comfort, upgraded visual and sound quality. “The attendance is becoming increasingly rare. You have to win it Audiences can comfortably watch arthouse movies while enjoying the cinema’s impeccable interior space. – ALL PICS FROM AFPPARIS is one of the world’s arthouse cinema hotspots, but falling attendance levels mean beloved independent operators must innovate and invest to thrive. The centre of the City of Light has the highest density of silver screens in the world per capita and arguably one of the most cinephile local populations. That has long supported its dense network of picture houses –around 80 today – where film lovers can catch classics and auteur productions in sometimes cramped conditions and with decorations that are spartan in nature. But with the rise of streaming, the popularity of high-end home cinema equipment, as well as cutthroat competition from deeppocketed multiplex chains, there seems to be an existential crisis brewing among independent filmmakers. Nowhere can the transformation of the sector be seen more clearly than the Champs-Elysees area. In 2014, cinemas on the famous avenue saw the selling of 1.9 million tickets, while ten years later the figure had dropped to just 133,000, according to data from Paris city hall, which subsidises the sector. Today, only a handful of cinemas remain, the others having shut down in favour of luxury boutiques and tourist-oriented shops. In 2019, the owners of the Elysees-Lincoln, one of the survivors, asked themselves whether they should “close it, transform it or turn it into something other than a cinema,” said Louis Merle, who runs the venue with his brother Samuel, along with two other theatres. “We decided it would remain a cinema because we are passionate, but we had to find a new economic model.” ‘Unthinkable’ After travelling to several countries, the brothers opted to create a “modular” cinema. American schools. There has been much speculation over its origins, including that it references police radio code or 67th Street in Skrilla’s hometown, Philadelphia. But Dictionary.com – which crowned it word of the year – said it was Generation Alpha’s joke on adults who are “once again struggling to make sense of its notoriously slippery slang”. SkibidiPronounced Skih-bih-dee, the gibberish term which can mean “cool” or “bad” – or nothing at all if it is used as a joke – comes from a YouTube series called “Skibidi Toilet” featuring a toilet bowl with a humanoid head. The slang has become an allconquering meme, sparking its own fan fiction and cosplay characters. Like “6-7”, fans say its attraction lies in the fact that it can mean anything at all – and has become a symbol of the “brain rot” content being consumed on social media. Skibidi entered the Cambridge Dictionary in August alongside “delulu”, a contraction of delusional that means “believing things that are not real or true, usually out of choice”. BroligarchyDefined by the Collins dictionary as a “small clique of very wealthy men who exert political influence”, the broligarchy has been used to describe the “tech bros” headed by Google’s Sundar Pichai, Mark Zuckerberg, Jeff Bezos, Tim Cook of Apple and Elon Musk. This gaggle of men were given pride of place at Trump’s presidential inauguration ceremony earlier this year. Such is their importance in the hierarchy of Trump’s new order, they were seated in front of his own cabinet. AI slopThe deluge of AI-generated images and videos clogging social media feeds reached such levels that the launch of OpenAI’s Sora 2 text-tovideo app in October prompted headlines asking, “Is it the end of civilisation as we know it?” Often derided for their poor quality, obsession with dancing cats and crassness – an AI “Shrimp Jesus” became notorious after flooding Facebook – they also raised fears about the death of creativity. They have inevitably also slipped into politics, with Trump posting several AI-generated images of himself, including one as the pope and a lightsaber-wielding Jedi. CoolcationWith 2025 likely to be the second or third hottest year on record, after fierce forest fires raging in Europe and Canada and heatwaves baking Southeast Asia, many tourists have been turning their backs on holiday hotspots to chill in cooler destinations. But climate change had a sting in the tail for those who headed north to enjoy the fjords and forests of northern Europe. A Nordic heatwave saw 22 straight days of temperatures over 30°C in Finland, the longest since records began, with reindeer dying of the heat in Rovaniemi, known as “the hometown of Santa Claus”. back by offering exemplary conditions in terms of welcome, comfort and projection quality,” said Richard Patry, president of the National Federation of French Cinemas. Cinema attendance has fallen by around 15% in 2025 compared with 2024, and experts say the sector may never regain the levels seen before the Covid-19 epidemic in 2020, which closed theatres and changed consumer behaviour. Industry watchers say this year’s figures have also suffered from an effort to drive footfall of buzzy Hollywood blockbusters and a lack of local French-language hits. Paris, however, stands out, with an average of 8.03 cinema entries per year per inhabitant, compared with 2.73 nationwide, according to figures from the National Centre for Cinema. ‘Resist’ Other independent cinemas have chosen to reorganise their already limited space to open new screens and increase capacity. Fabien Houi, who runs the Brady in the 10th arrondissement (district), hopes to almost double annual admissions from 65,000 to 100,000 thanks to the opening of 34 seats and a third screen. “You have to come up with things within your means and possibilities to try to survive,” he said, covered in construction dust amid the unfinished worksite. Opening a new screen when attendance is falling may seem counter-intuitive, but the experience of the Grand Action, in the heart of the Latin Quarter near Notre-Dame cathedral, also supports the idea. Since opening a new 27-seat screen in 2022, owner Isabelle Gibbal-Hardy said she has almost doubled the number of releases she can host per year and “attendance has risen far more than expected” –all while continuing to offer a The interior view of the theatre seats of the Elysees Lincoln cinema in Paris. programme for the arthouse. – AFP

SCAN METHURSDAY DEC 4, 2025TEL: 03-7784 6688 FAX: 03-7785 2625 EMAIL: [email protected] NoticesIN THE HIGH COURT OF MALAYA AT KUALA LUMPUR(COMMERCIAL DIVISION)COMPANIES (WINDING UP) PETITIONNO. : WA-28NCC-823-08/2025In the matter of Section 465 (1) (e) of the Companies Act 2016;AndIn the matter of Section 466 of the Companies Act 2016,AndIn the matter of ABLR SDN. BHD COMPANY NO. : 202001020571 (1376891-X) ).BETWEENMUTIARA HARRISON SDN BHD (Company No. : 198101008020 (74137-K) )… PETITIONERANDABLR SDN. BHD(Company No. : 202001020571 (1376891-X) ) …RESPONDENTNOTICE OF WINDING-UP ORDERIn the matter of ABLR Sdn. Bhd (Company No. : 202001020571 (1376891-X) ).Winding-up Order made on the 27th day of November, 2025.Name and address of Liquidator: -The Official ReceiversJabatan Insolvensi MalaysiaKuala Lumpur Branch22,23,24 & 25Menara TH Perdana1001, Jalan Sultan Ismail50250 Kuala Lumpur.Solicitors for the Petitioners:Low & PartnersAdvocates & SolicitorsNo. 8B, Persiaran Greentown 1,Greentown Business Centre,30450 Ipoh, Perak.Tel : 05-2418293 ; Fax : 05-2418298File : IP/GL/12716/07/23/LHY/TCW_KIP322 Notices322 NoticesIN THE HIGH COURT OF MALAYA AT KUALA LUMPURIN THE FEDERAL TERRITORY OF MALAYSIA(COMMERCIAL DIVISION)COMPANIES WINDINGUP PETITION NO. WA28NCC-955-09/2025In the matter of JNCY Nuenergy Holdings Sdn. Bhd. (Company Registration No. 201901022546 (1331875-V))AndIn the matter of Sections 464(1)(a) and 465(1)(c), (d) and/or (h) of the Companies Act 2016And In the matter of Companies (Winding-Up) Rules 1972JNCY NUENERGY HOLDINGS SDN. BHD. (COMPANY REGISTRATION NO.: 201901022546 (1331875-V))… PETITIONERNOTICE OF WINDING-UP ORDERIn the matter of JNCY NUENERGY HOLDINGS SDN. BHD. (COMPANY REGISTRATION NO.: 201901022546 (1331875-V)).Winding-up Order made on 24th day of November 2025.Name and address of Liquidator:-THE OFFICIAL RECEIVER MALAYSIAJabatan Insolvensi WP Kuala Lumpur22, 23, 24 & 25, Menara TH Perdana 1001,Jalan Sultan Ismail50250 Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur24th day of November 2025sgd...........................................Messrs KY Lee & CoSolicitors for the PetitionerThis NOTICE OF WINDINGUP ORDER is filed by Messrs. KY Lee & Co, solicitors for the Petitioner, whose address for service is at 20-29 Avenue Crest, Jalan Jubli Perak 22/1, Section 22, 40300 Shah Alam, Selangor Darul Ehsan. Tel : 010- 836 6742Email : [email protected] Ref. : 15/2025IN THE HIGH COURT OF MALAYA AT KUALA LUMPURIN THE STATE OF FEDERAL TERRITORY OF KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIACOMPANIES WINDING-UP NO. WA-28NCC-956-09/2025In the matter of Power Valley Hub Sdn. Bhd. (Company Registration No. 201801040498 (1302529-T))AndIn the matter of Sections 464(1)(a) and 465(1)(c), (d) and/or (h) of the Companies Act 2016And In the matter of Companies (Winding-Up) Rules 1972POWER VALLEY HUB SDN. BHD. (COMPANY REGISTRATION NO.: 201801040498 (1302529-T)) … PETITIONERNOTICE OF WINDING-UP ORDERIn the matter of POWER VALLEY HUB SDN. BHD. (Company Registration No. 201801040498 (1302529-T)).Winding-up Order made on 27th day of November 2025.Name and address of Liquidator:-THE OFFICIAL RECEIVER MALAYSIAJabatan Insolvensi WP Kuala Lumpur22, 23, 24 & 25, Menara TH Perdana 1001,Jalan Sultan Ismail50250 Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur27th day of November 2025sgd...........................................Messrs KY Lee & CoSolicitors for the Petitioner This NOTICE OF WINDING-UP ORDER is filed by Messrs. KY Lee & Co, solicitors for the Petitioner, whose address for service is at 20-29 Avenue Crest, Jalan Jubli Perak 22/1, Section 22, 40300 Shah Alam, Selangor Darul Ehsan. Tel : 010- 836 6742Email : [email protected] Ref. : 14/2025IN THE HIGH COURT OF MALAYA AT KUALA LUMPURIN THE STATE OF FEDERAL TERRITORY OF KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA(COMMERCIAL DIVISION)COMPANIES WINDING-UP NO. WA-28NCC-954-09/2025In the matter of HLKG Prosper Sdn. Bhd. (Company Registration No. 201901018475 (1327804-T))AndIn the matter of Sections 464(1)(a) and 465(1)(c), (d) and/or (h) of the Companies Act 2016And In the matter of Companies (Winding-Up) Rules 1972HLKG PROSPER SDN. BHD. (COMPANY REGISTRATION NO.: 201901018475 (1327804-T)) … PETITIONERNOTICE OF WINDING-UP ORDERIn the matter of HLKG PROSPER SDN. BHD. (Company Registration No. 201901018475 (1327804-T)).Winding-up Order made on 27th day of November 2025.Name and address of Liquidator:-THE OFFICIAL RECEIVER MALAYSIAJabatan Insolvensi WP Kuala Lumpur22, 23, 24 & 25, Menara TH Perdana 1001,Jalan Sultan Ismail50250 Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur27th day of November 2025sgd...........................................Messrs KY Lee & CoSolicitors for the PetitionerThis NOTICE OF WINDING-UP ORDER is filed by Messrs. KY Lee & Co, solicitors for the Petitioner, whose address for service is at 20-29 Avenue Crest, Jalan Jubli Perak 22/1, Section 22, 40300 Shah Alam, Selangor Darul Ehsan. Tel : 010- 836 6742Email : [email protected] Ref. : 16/2025322 Notices 322 Notices 322 NoticesJob Descriptiont

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4BCBI4BSBXBLDALAM PERKARA AKTA SYARIKAT 2016DANDALAM PERKARAHAP SENG SERI ALAM SDN. BHD. [201301002785 (1032623-T)](Dalam Penggulungan Syarikat Secara Sukarela Oleh Ahli)NOTIS RESOLUSINOTIS DENGAN INI DIBERIbahawa dalam Mesyuarat Pemegang-pemegang Saham syarikat HAP SENG SERI ALAM SDN. BHD. yang telah diadakan di 21st Floor, Menara Hap Seng, Jalan P. Ramlee, 50250 Kuala Lumpur, W. P. Kuala Lumpur pada 4 Disember 2025, Resolusi Khas seperti berikut telah diluluskan: -PENGGULUNGAN SYARIKAT SECARA SUKARELA OLEH AHLI“BAHAWA Syarikat ini digulungkan secara sukarela menurut Seksyen 439(1) Akta Syarikat 2016 dan En. YAP KAI WENG yang beralamat di No. 9, Jalan Indah 16, Taman Cheras Indah, 56100 Kuala Lumpur, W.P. Kuala Lumpur dilantik sebagai Pelikuidasi untuk tujuan penggulungan tersebut.”Tarikh: 4 Disember 2025DATUK EDWARD LEE MING FOOPengarahIN THE MATTER OFTHE COMPANIES ACT, 2016ANDIN THE MATTER OFHAP SENG SERI ALAM SDN. BHD. [201301002785 (1032623-T)] (IN MEMBERS’ VOLUNTARY WINDING UP)NOTICE OF RESOLUTIONNOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT a General Meeting of the member(s) of HAP SENG SERI ALAM SDN. BHD. duly convened and held at 21st Floor, Menara Hap Seng, Jalan P. Ramlee, 50250 Kuala Lumpur, W. P. Kuala Lumpur on 4 December 2025, the following Special Resolution set out below was duly passed: -MEMBERS’ VOLUNTARY WINDING UP“THAT the Company be wound up voluntarily pursuant to Section 439(1) of the Companies Act, 2016 and that Mr. YAP KAI WENG of No. 9, Jalan Indah 16, Taman Cheras Indah, 56100 Kuala Lumpur, W. P. Kuala Lumpur be and is hereby appointed as liquidator of the Company for the purpose of such winding up.”Dated this: 4 December 2025DATUK EDWARD LEE MING FOODirectorIN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016ANDIN THE MATTER OFHAP SENG SERI ALAM SDN. BHD. [201301002785 (1032623-T)] (IN MEMBERS’ VOLUNTARY WINDING UP)NOTICE OF CREDITORSNOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the creditors of HAP SENG SERI ALAM SDN. BHD. which is being voluntarily wound up, are requested to, on or before the 5 January 2026 to send in their names and addresses with particulars of their debts and claims and of any security held by them, and the names and addresses of their solicitor (if any) to YAP KAI WENG, the Liquidator at No. 9, Jalan Indah 16, Taman Cheras Indah, 56100 Kuala Lumpur, W.P. Kuala Lumpur and if so required by the notice in writing to the said Liquidator, or by their solicitor or personally to come and prove their debts or claims at such time and place as shall be specified in such notice or in default thereof they will be excluded from the benefits of any distribution made.Dated this: 4 December 2025YAP KAI WENGLiquidator302 Jobs 302 Jobs 322 Notices 322 NoticesAdvertise with us & connect to our urban readers. KLANG VALLEY PENANG | KEDAHPERAK | PERLIS PAHANG | KELANTANTERENGGANUMS. Shoba / MS. BalqishTEL: 03-7784 8888WHATSAPP: 018 261 6626MALACCA | SEREMBANMR. RajahTEL: 012-628 2844 FAX: 06-764 2051JOHOR BAHRUMS. Anne LimTEL: 013-770 6699 FAX: 07-355 5549

SPORTSTHURSDAY | DEC 4, 202528PERISYTIHARAN JUALANDALAM MAHKAMAH TINGGI MALAYA DI PULAU PINANGPERMOHONAN PELAKSANAAN NO : PA-36-4-04/2025SAMAN PEMULA NO :Dalam Perkara kesemua sebidang Tanah yang dikenali sebagai Hakmilik GM 2639, Lot 3354, Mukim 14, DaerahSeberang Perai Utara, Negeri Pulau Pinang, bersama alamat taksiran No. 18, Jalan Perusahaan Ringan 3,Kawasan Perindustrian Mak Mandin, 13400 Butterworth, Pulau Pinang; DanDalam Perkara Aturan 47 Kaedah 6 dan 7, Kaedah-Kaedah Mahkamah, 2012; DanDalam Perkara Penghakiman Mahkamah Sesyen Butterworth, Pulau Pinang, Guaman Sivil No: PBB52NCVC-7-01/2024 bertarikh 27 Mei 2024; DanDalam Perkara Seksyen 334 sehingga Seksyen 339 Kanun Tanah Negara, 1965Antara LOH SANG HEE (NO. K/P : 631101-07-6081) …. PLAINTIF/PEMIUTANG PENGHAKIMANDanLIM LIEW HIOK (NO. K/P : 580415-07-5252) .… DEFENDAN/PENGHUTANG PENGHAKIMANMenurut Perintah Mahkamah Tinggi Malaya di Pulau Pinang mengenai Perintah Jualan bertarikh 14November 2025 dan Perintah Notis Permohonan bertarikh 27 Oktober 2025 masing-masing, adalah dengan inidiisytiharkan bahawa Timbalan Pendaftar / Penolong Kanan Pendaftar Mahkamah Tinggi Malaya di Pulau Pinangdengan ini dibantu oleh Pelelong Berdaftar yang dilantik oleh MahkamahAKAN MENJUAL SECARA LELONGAN AWAMPADA : RABU 17 DISEMBER 2025 JAM: 10.30 PAGIDI BILIK LELONG MAHKAMAH TINGGI MALAYA DI PULAU PINANGLEBUH LIGHT, 10200 PULAU PINANGBUTIR-BUTIR HAKMILIKNO. HAKMILIK : GM 2639NO. LOT : 3354MUKIM/DAERAH/NEGERI : 14 / Seberang Perai Utara / Pulau PinangPEGANGAN : Selama-lamanyaKELUASAN PETAK : 358 meter persegiCUKAI PETAK : RM 233.00PEMILIK BERDAFTAR : LIM LIEW HIOK (NO. K/P : 580415-07-5252) – 1/1 bahagianSYARAT NYATA : (GERAN MUKIM FIRST GRADE)The Land comprised in this title:(a) Shall not be affected by any provisions of the National Land Code limiting the compensation payable on theexercise by the State Authority of a right of access or use conferred by Chapter 3 of Part Three of the Code oron the creation of a Collector’s right of way; and(b) Subject to the implied condition that land is liable to the re-entered if it is abandoned for more thanthree years, shall revert to the State only if the proprietor for the time being dies without heirs;and the title shall confer the absolute right to all forest produce and to all oil, mineral and other naturalsdeposits on or below the surface of the land (including the right to work or extract any such produce or depositand remove it beyond the boundaries of the land).SEKATAN KEPENTINGAN : TIADABEBANAN : KAVEAT PERSENDIRIAN1. Kaveat Persendirian dimasukkan oleh LOH SANG HEE (NO. K/P: 631101076081) melalui Perserahan No. 0702B2019000480 didaftarkan pada 01 April 2019.2. Kaveat Persendirian dimasukkan oleh LIM LIEW HIOK (NO. K/P: 580415075252) melalui Perserahan No. 0702B2021000235 didaftarkan pada 05 Mac 2021.NOTA : Bakal-bakal pembeli adalah dinasihatkan agar membuat carian Hakmilik secara rasmi di Pejabat Tanah dan memeriksa hartanah tersebut sebelum jualan lelong.LOKASI DAN PERIHAL HARTANAH:-Hartanah berkenaan adalah satu unit bangunan perindustrial ringan 1½ tingkat yang beralamat di No. 18, JalanPerusahaan Ringan 3, Taman Industri Ringan Mak Mandin, 13400 Butterworth, Pulau Pinang. Keluasankeseluruhan lantai adalah 358 meter persegi.HARGA RIZAB:-Hartanah tersebut akan dijual tertakluk kepada satu harga rizab sebanyak RM 1,600,000.00 (RinggitMalaysia: SATU JUTA ENAM RATUS RIBU SAHAJA) dan kepada syarat-syarat jualan yang dilampirkan.Penawar yang berminat hendaklah mendepositkan 10% daripada harga rizab dalam bentuk Bank Draf di atasnama LOH SANG HEE sebelum jam 9.30 pagi pada hari lelongan. Baki wang belian hendaklah dibayar olehpenawar yang berjaya kepada LOH SANG HEE dalam tempoh seratus dua puluh (120) hari dari tarikh jualan.Untuk butir-butir selanjutnya, sila berhubung dengan:-1) Nama Pelelong : AZHARIN BIN SHAARI Syarikat Pelelong : MF PROJECT MANAGEMENT No. Tel : 04-5755897 / 017-41025162) Firma Guaman : TETUAN TEJA SINGH PENESAR & CO. Alamat : No. 27, Jalan Zainal Abidin, 10400 Georgetown, Pulau Pinang. No. Tel : 04-2269270 No. Fax : 04-2269376 No. Rujukan : T/LIT/7018-CORR/2025/s/C-2322 NoticesWITH five-times major champion Rory McIlroy leading the field and a return to Royal Melbourne for the first time since 1991, there is a genuine sense of excitement about the 108th playing of the Australian Open. Golf Australia earlier this year dumped the groundbreaking mixed men’s, women’s and all-abilities format that was introduced in 2022, leaving Australia’s oldest and most prestigious tournament once again the sole centre of attention. The tournament, which these days is cosanctioned by the DP World Tour, counts golfing greats Greg Norman, Tom Watson, Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player among its former winners. Masters champion McIlroy already has his name etched on the Stonehaven Cup after beating Adam Scott in a playoff at Royal Sydney in 2013 and the Northern Irishman said he was excited to be back in Australia. “It hasn’t been a secret that I’ve wanted to come back … (and) the change in the format, going back to the traditional Australian Open has probably helped,” he told reporters yesterday, ahead of today’s opening round. “It just feels like this country is starved of top level golf. Obviously, you’ve had Presidents Cups come down here and you’ve had a lot of good players still come through, but maybe just not on a consistent basis. “And I think a market like this, with amazing fans and the history that it does have, probably deserves more of a consistency of big players and big tournaments.” Major winners Cam Smith and Scott are expected to lead the home charge to get the Stonehaven Cup back into Australian hands for the first time since Matt Jones won his second title in 2019. Min Woo Lee and Karl Vilips, a PGA Tour winner in his rookie season, are other local contenders, while Britain’s former Masters champion Danny Willett and 2023 Australian Open winner Joaquin Niemann are among the international challengers. Former Masters champion Scott won the title in 2009 but said to win it at the worldrenowned sandbelt course would be extra special. “I think winning the Aussie Open at Royal Melbourne has one of those asterisks next to it, where it’s just that little bit more meaningful,” the 45-year-old said. Former British Open champion Smith, who has endured a horror run of form in recent months, was one of the main critics of the mixed tournament, arguing that conditions had been made easier to help the women. “There was a lot of back-and-forth throughout the last couple of years, and I think everyone’s pretty happy with the result,” he said. “Everyone’s talking about the Aussie Open again, which is what we wanted.” – ReutersJOSH INGLIS is expected to come into Australia’s batting line-up for the second Ashes Test today as speculation grows that captain Pat Cummins might make a shock comeback in Brisbane. Travis Head, who made a match-winning century as a makeshift opener in Perth, is set to remain at the top of the order in place of the injured Usman Khawaja, with England-born Inglis slotting into the middle order. Stand-in captain Steve Smith would not confirm the team when he spoke on the eve of the Test or address swirling Cummins comeback rumours, which were widely circulating in the Australian press yesterday. He did say that Cummins had been bowling well in training following his long-standing back injury. “He looks pretty good to me, the way he’s bowling in the nets,” Smith said. “Obviously the game’s a different intensity, but he’s tracking really nicely. He knows his body well, and yeah, we’ll wait and see.” Smith expects an unchanged aggressive approach from Ben Stokes’s England, who are 1-0 down in the five-match series after Australia’s stunning eight-wicket win in Perth. The Gabba under lights is expected to offer plenty of help for both bowling attacks with England stacked with quicks, though offspinner Will Jacks has been called in to replace injured speedster Mark Wood. “I think they’ve said for a while they’re not going to change the way they go about their business,” Smith said. “I don’t expect too much different this time. They play quite an aggressive brand of cricket and you know when they get going, they’re going to score at a good pace.” England were widely castigated after the first Test ended inside two days, with former players slamming the so-called “Bazball” tactics which saw a number of batsmen throw their wickets away with rash shots. “But for us it’s not focusing too much on what they do, but ensuring we’ve got our plans in place and focus on what we do well and do it for long periods of time,” said Smith, who added that Australia favoured a different approach. “I think we adapt to conditions and play what’s in front of us,” Smith said. “That’s the one thing this team has done well for a period of time. “We’ve been able to sum up the conditions, play what’s in front in live time, not get back in the shed and say ‘we should have played this way, we should have done this’. “Playing what’s in front of us and doing it for long periods – if you do that in Test cricket it holds you in pretty good stead.” – AFPInglis set for second Ashes TestSHORTSKiwis strike as Windies lose brave Hope NEW ZEALAND took three wickets in four overs, including the heroic Shai Hope, as the West Indies were 120-5 at tea, still 111 in arrears on day two of the first Test in Christchurch yesterday. The not out batsmen were Tagenarine Chanderpaul on 45 and Tevin Imlach on three. Hope looked to have turned the West Indies fortunes around after going to the crease at 10-2. He was the lead run-maker in a 90-run partnership with Chanderpaul for the third wicket. But after a near chanceless sixth Test half-century, he allowed a Jacob Duffy delivery to brush his gloves on its way to wicketkeeper Tom Latham and was gone for 56. Matt Henry followed with a double-wicket maiden, having both Roston Chase and Justin Greaves caught behind by Latham without scoring, as the West Indies slumped from 100-2 to 106-5. The West Indies took just three balls to end the New Zealand first innings at the start of the day, without adding to their overnight 231-9. Zak Foulkes, the last man out, playing just his second Test, removed John Campbell for one with his first delivery. Will Young completed the dismissal with a smart one-handed catch to his left at third slip, but then dropped a regulation chance when Alick Athanaze on four, edged Matt Henry. Stokes prefers Down Under media heat DEFIANT England captain Ben Stokes says he will not allow intense media attention stop him enjoying Australia, calling it preferable to being back home where it is “miserable, freezing cold and dark” at this time of year. The team’s every move is being scrutinised on the five-Test Ashes tour, with players followed through the airport, on golf courses and on a trip to an aquarium. Stokes and others players were this week snapped riding electric scooters around Brisbane without helmets, prompting a front-page “Pommy Idiots” headline from the city’s Courier-Mail newspaper today. Not wearing a helmet is punishable by a fine under Queensland state law with police saying they had “engaged with those persons to inform and educate them on compliance requirements”. Stokes said being under the microscope was part and parcel of being on tour in Australia and he was not letting it get to him. “If they (the media) think it is going to stop us enjoying this country when we have time off then it is not going to do that,” he told the BBC. “Australia is the best country to tour away from cricket. There are so many things to do. You can go out and about and see things that only Australia has to offer, great golf courses, coffee shops and easy places to have lunch.” “We are human,” he said. “We need to enjoy countries when we get the opportunity because we live in England where it is miserable, freezing cold and dark at 4pm.”McIlroy headlines … as Australian Open goes back to basics at Royal MelbourneRory McIlroy hits out of a bunker during the Pro-Am ahead of the Australian Open golf tournament yesterday. – AFPPIC

SPORTSTHURSDAY | DEC 4, 202529BARCELONA produced an impressive comeback to beat Atletico Madrid 3-1 yesterday and move four points clear at the top of La Liga, with coach Hansi Flick saying his side had taken a step forward after some shaky performances. Alex Baena fired Atletico ahead but Raphinha equalised for the champions before Dani Olmo and Ferran Torres struck to end the visitors’ run of 13 straight league games without defeat. Barca might have been more comfortable had Robert Lewandowski not ballooned a first half penalty over the bar at the partially rebuilt Camp Nou. “We will see (if it’s a turning point) but this was one of the best matches from us, I really appreciate what I saw over the 90 minutes,” Flick told reporters. “This was the next step…we are coming back to our best level, today was really good.” This was Barca’s fifth consecutive Liga win after losing the Clasicoagainst Madrid in October, but they have not shone consistently in that period, and coming against a title rival this display gave Flick’s side a welcome boost. “This is the spirit we need to have to turn around games like this,” Raphinha told Movistar. “We’re building confidence game by game, and these three points are going to be vital for the end of the season, they can decide a title race.” Barca were w ithout defender Ronald Araujo, who is taking a mental health break according to Spanish reports, along with ill midfielder Frenkie de Jong and the longer-term absentees. After a 3-0 thrashing at Chelsea last week in the Champions League, followed by a shaky win over Alaves to claim pole position in La Liga, nerves were jangling among home fans. Following a tense start, Atletico took the lead with, predictably, a ball in behind Barcelona’s persistently high defensive line. Baena scampered through on goal and beat Joan Garcia, barely celebrating because he could sense the linesman’s raised flag behind him was likely to be ruled out. However a VAR review showed the Spaniard was level with Pau Cubarsi when he broke and the goal was reinstated. Barcelona responded rapidly and levelled in the 26th minute when Pedri, back fit to start, played in Raphinha. The Brazilian winger, another player recently back from injury, took the ball around Jan Oblak and slid it into the empty net. Barca should have gone ahead but Lewandowski spurned a penalty, blazing high and wide of Oblak’s goal after Pablo Barrios brought down Dani Olmo. The Polish veteran almost made amends moments later but Oblak brilliantly clawed out his header from Lamine Yamal’s cross. In the second half Olmo sent Barcelona ahead with a slick finish after Lewandowski managed to bundle the ball into his path. Pedri, who was controlling the game for Barca also went down hurt after 70 minutes and Flick replaced him, but later said the midfielder was just tired. Alejandro Balde found Torres in stoppage time to cap Barca’s win and claim his side three vital points in the title race while dealing Atletico’s own ambitions a blow. “Barca were superior. “We had a couple of chances to equalise and in the last second they scored the third,” Oblak told Movistar. Atletico coach Simeone said his team gave their all and could not fault them despite the result which cut short their charge up the table after six straight league wins prior. “I’m happy with the team’s performance and we competed well,” said the Argentine. “We couldn’t be efficient in front of goal, that’s what we ask for but sometimes it doesn’t happen.” – AFP/thesundailyFOLLOW ON FACEBOOK/Malaysian PaperBarca extends Liga leadCatalans come from behind to defeat Atletico 3-1Mbappe more than his goals: AlonsoREAL MADRID coach Xabi Alonso said yesterday French superstar Kylian Mbappe was vital to the team for more than just his prolific goalscoring. The striker slammed home four against Olympiacos in the Champions League last week and has 23 goals in 19 games across all competitions this season. Mbappe has called on Madrid to be united in recent weeks as the Spanish giants struggle for consistency under Alonso. “He’s been very good individually, helping the team a lot,” Alonso told a news conference ahead of Athletic Bilbao match. “It’s not just about goals for Kylian. “In which in the end is the most important thing, but he does other hugely fundamental things like leadership, influence, helping his teammates, and that’s so important day to day.” Madrid are a point behind champions Barcelona after a third consecutive top flight draw on Sunday, at Catalan minnows Girona. Spanish media have speculated Alonso’s future as Madrid coach is at stake if the team do not improve. The Basque coach admitted he has spoken recently to Real Madrid president Florentino Perez about turning the team’s form around. “The conversations are very positive, in a good tone, wanting to improve the results and that’s what we’ve spoken about,” said Alonso, who conceded Madrid have been erratic this season. “I think we’ve lacked consistency in our game, and we want to play better in the next one,” continued the coach. “We’ve lost a bit of quality in our play. “We’ve lost a little bit of energy.” – AFPBAYER LEVERKUSEN knocked Borussia Dortmund out in the last 16 of the German Cup, Ibrahim Maza scoring the only goal in a 1-0 away win yesterday. Maza’s 34th-minute strike put the 2024 cup winners on track for victory and exact instant revenge on Dortmund, who beat them 2-1 in their own backyard in the Bundesliga three days ago. “We had a score to settle,” said Maza. The goal was: “a bit of instinct and a bit of luck too, but that’s part of it – that’s normal in football,” he told Sky Germany. Leverkusen will be joined in the quarterfinals by RB Leipzig, who beat Magdeburg 3-1 at home, along with Hertha Berlin and St Pauli, who won earlier yesterday. Forlorn Dortmund defender Waldemar Anton told Sky Germany his side would “need a day or two to process” the “incredibly brutal” defeat, adding “we set ourselves high goals and we wanted to win this competition.” Bundesliga heavyweights Dortmund and Leverkusen had met 109 times in all competitions dating back to the early 1950s but had never faced off in the German Cup. Dortmund had an early penalty shout waved away when former Liverpool defender Jarell Quansah held Carney Chukwuemeka inside the box. A goalscorer in Leverkusen’s shock 2-0 Champions League win at Manchester City, the 20-year-old Maza danced through some sleepy Dortmund defence to blast his side in front. Leverkusen netted again on the hour mark through Martin Terrier in a move started by Maza, but the strike was chalked off for a narrow offside. Dortmund’s Karim Adeyemi had a chance to level deep into stoppage time, but he headed inches wide of the post. Elsewhere, Christoph Baumgartner scored twice as RB Leipzig came from a goal down to beat lowly Magdeburg. Earlier on Tuesday, St Pauli broke out of their recent Bundesliga funk to win 2-1 at three-time winners Borussia Moenchengladbach. In the German capital, Hertha Berlin thumped 2024 finalists Kaiserslautern 6-1, with 16-year-old Kennet Eichhorn becoming the youngest goalscorer in the competition’s history. – AFPMaza lifts Leverkusen over DortmundJuve reach Cup quarters JUVENTUS scored with an own goal and a penalty kick as they beat visiting Udinese 2-0 yesterday to reach the last eight in the Italian Cup. In a game in which the two teams managed just two strikes on goal between them, the hosts took the lead after 23 minutes when 17-year-old Udinese defender Matteo Palma beat Jonathan David to a Weston McKennie cross only to turn the ball into his own goal. Palma, a Berlin-born Italian youth international, fouled McKennie in the 67th minute to concede a penalty that Manuel Locatelli tucked away. The match opened the Italian Cup round of 16. Cup holders Bologna host Parma and Serie A leaders Milan visit Lazio tomorrow. The final tie, between Roma and Torino, will be played on Jan 13. Serena denies pending return SERENA WILLIAMS has re-entered the tennis anti-doping testing pool but the 23-times Grand Slam champion denied yesterday that the move had anything to do with her making a return to the sport she dominated for nearly two decades. The International Tennis Integrity Agency confirmed to Reuters that Williams, who has not competed since the 2022 U.S. Open, was among the list of players in its testing pool, which requires individuals to provide their whereabouts at any given time, every day, and participate in random testing. But as the story of 44-year-old Williams’ inclusion on the list, first reported earlier yeaterday by The Athletic, gained traction and sparked talk about her potential return, the tennis great took to social media to deny a comeback was in her plans. “Omg yall I’m NOT coming back. This wildfire is crazy,” Williams wrote on X. Her agent did not immediately respond to an email from Reuters asking why the player had reentered the testing pool. RB rookie Hadjar to partner Verstappen FRENCH ROOKIE Isack Hadjar will step up to the main Red Bull car next season to partner four-time world champion Max Verstappen, the Austrian Formula One team announced yesterday. Isack, who only turned 21 in September, has enjoyed an impressive first season with Red Bull’s junior team Racing Bulls, scoring 10 top-10 finishes, including his first podium when he finished third in the Netherlands. He replaces Japanese driver Yuki Tsunoda who becomes Red Bull’s test and reserve driver. “After all the hard work I have put in since joining the junior team, it’s such a great reward,“ a grateful Hadjar said in a Red Bull statement. “I’ve had many ups and downs throughout my career and they kept believing and pushing me. “It’s an awesome move, to work with the best and learn from Max is something I can’t wait for.” Red Bull will be hoping Hadjar can solve the perennial problem of Verstappen’s partner.SHORTSBarcelona’s Lamine Yamal (right) in action with Atletico Madrid’s Julian Alvarez during the Laliga match yesterday. – REUTERSPIC

SPORTSTHURSDAY | DEC 4, 2025306056/2025 03/12/2025 (WED)3906 1351 4921238657902360664113139097339202397166443846652331492462350549955487561554669100365,283,001.06390639063906492149211351492149211351135139061351569,784.93390613514921 GOAT0174016404640440442243 0 49 21050920509250920921050910501051 04,973,568.0912,833,698.5820 21 30 32 39 54285,700.664 12 28 33 34 542 7 17 27 40 45 2126,143,528.373911 772 + SNAKE082 399 + TIGER584 578 +MONKEYDraw Date: 03/12/25 (Wed) Draw No: 6003/25 Venue: WISMA GENTING, KL1772239945784742 + 2227 6675 + 14729453 + 8505 2233 + 85848939 + 7530 2607 + 79015035 + 6940 3921 + 24732128 + 3042 1532 + 6640RM12,074,527.301772 + 2399 2399 + 17721772 + 4578 4578 + 17722399 + 4578 4578 + 2399RM138,707.10RM151,388.80 RM620,000.00 RM789,097.10 684 742 162 227 396 675 811 472719 453 208 505 892 233 978 584468 939 227 530 542 607 937 901935 035 106 940 903 921 202 473322 128 183 042 511 532 096 640772 399 578RM722,662.80772 + 399 + 578 399 + 578 + 772772 + 578 + 399 578 + 772 + 399399 + 772 + 578 578 + 399 + 772HSSB 1+3DJ1 RM1,078,215.80 & J2RM141,841.00 won on 30/11/25‘Absolute VAR mistake’Romero’s stunning bicycle kick salvages a crucial point for Spurs against NewcastleCRISTIAN ROMERO scored a dramatic overhead kick deep into stoppage time yesterday as struggling Spurs battled to a 2-2 draw against Newcastle, easing the growing pressure on manager Thomas Frank. Eddie Howe’s team will be kicking themselves after twice letting their lead slip on home turf but Frank will breathe a sigh of relief after three straight defeats in all competitions. Newcastle looked the more dangerous team for most of the game and limited the visitors to just two shots on target, both of which were converted by captain fantastic Romero. First, the Argentine produced a fine diving header in the 78th minute to cancel out Newcastle substitute Bruno Guimaraes’ second half opener. That appeared to have been in vain as Anthony Gordon, another substitute, put the home side back ahead from the penalty spot eight minutes later. But Romero scored his second in the 95th minute when his scuffed shot somehow sneaked through a knot of players and into Aaron Ramsdale’s net, leaving Newcastle scratching their heads. The result leaves Spurs 11th in the Premier League, two places above Newcastle. Tottenham manager Frank, already under pressure in his first season in charge of the London club, told Sky Sports the performance “showed fantastic mentality and character”. “Every team needs that. It is fair to say it has been a tough week, fourth game in 10 days, third away game,” he said. “St James’ Park is always a difficult place to come. Last 60 minutes I am very happy with that performance overall. The ability to react to setbacks was great.” After the match, Frank said it was an “absolute mistake” for the video assistant referee (VAR) to intervene and award Newcastle a penalty as his side earned a point in dramatic fashion at St James’ Park. Referee Thomas Bramall was sent to the pitchside monitor after VAR spotted Rodrigo Bentancur holding Newcastle defender Dan Burn in the penalty box as the hosts took a corner. It looked like a tussle between the two players in the box as they both fell to the ground and, despite the official not giving the penalty initially, the Spurs midfielder was punished after the review. Premier League match manager said on X the penalty had been awarded because Bentancur “clearly does not look at the ball” while committing a “holding offence”. Spurs were unhappy with the decision, while pundits were also quick to criticise, suggesting it was the kind of incident that happens at corners in most matches. “It was an absolute mistake from the VAR,” said Spurs boss Frank. “The referee did good to do the ref call and they encourage the refereeing call on the pitch. For me, that is never a penalty. “Even speaking to some from Newcastle (they) don’t think it’s a penalty and we need consistency. “I think the referee’s call on the pitch, he nailed it, and VAR can only be if it’s clear and obvious.” Newcastle boss Eddie Howe added: “I hadn’t seen it, I’m only seeing it now. The big thing is the defender isn’t looking at the ball at all, he’s looking at Dan. I think it’s probably the right call.” – AFP/AgenciesARNE SLOT admitted yesterday that “superhuman” Mohamed Salah was unhappy about being omitted from Liverpool’s team for their vital 2-0 win against West Ham, but praised his attitude. The Egypt forward was an unused substitute at the London Stadium on Sunday as Liverpool boss Slot made changes following a terrible run of nine defeats in 12 games in all competitions. Misfiring Salah, 33, has scored just four Premier League goals this season – in stark contrast to his haul of 29 last season, a tally that won him the Golden Boot. Slot told reporters that during his reign as manager at Anfield, Salah had been a “superhuman being” but that he had not been at his best in recent weeks. “As with all players around the world, there are also phases in your time at the club that you are human,” he said. “But he’s scored so many goals for us and I’m absolutely sure he will in the future.” Slot said he was not surprised by Salah’s reaction to being left out, praising his professionalism. “That’s a normal reaction from a player that’s good enough to play for us,” he said. “And I say it mildly, because he’s been so outstanding for this club for so many years, and will be for us in the future. “So, yeah, of course a player isn’t happy when they’re not playing. He wasn’t the only one who wasn’t happy that he wasn’t starting, I can tell you.” The Dutchman said that Salah had been supportive of his teammates. “You cannot be a player that’s available every three days and play on that high standard if you go with your emotions,” he said. “But Mo is so disciplined, knows what to do to stay fit, and no matter if he plays well, doesn’t play well, if he plays or if he doesn’t play, he will always be that top professional.” Slot said that Salah was scheduled to leave for the Africa Cup of Nations on Dec 15. “As always in these situations, there’s a player involved, there’s the nation involved – Egypt in this situation – and the club. “And there are always talks about what is best for all three of us,” he said. – AFP‘Superhuman’ Salah unhappy after being dropped, says SlotNewcastle United’s Anthony Gordon (bottom)celebrates scoring their second goal with Anthony Elanga against Spurs yesterday. – REUTERSPIC

SPORTSTHURSDAY | DEC 4, 202531THE Minister of Youth and Sports, Hannah Yeoh has confirmed that former Harimau Malaya coach Datuk Ong Kim Swee has been recommended to be appointed as technical director of Mokhtar Dahari Academy (AMD) by the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM). Yeoh said the plan to appoint Kim Swee is a positive development as it provides an opportunity for local players to be involved in the national football development programme at the grassroots level. “The recommendation to hire Kim Swee as technical director of AMD came from FAM and the National Sports Council (MSN) is also aware of the decision,” she said at a press conference after attending the 2025 Sepak Takraw Perpaduan Kaum 2025 Basic Sports Training Course (KLAS) here, today. On Tuesday, the media reported that Kim Swee will start the job as early as Jan 1 and is considered the right candidate to hold the position following his reputation in guiding Harimau Muda to win the men’s football gold at the 2011 SEA Games in Indonesia. Kim Swee is currently not tied to any team after leaving Indonesian club Persik Kediri earlier. Regarding the direction of the National Football Development Programme (NFDP), Hannah said MSN had to temporarily postpone the programme to hand it over to FAM following the crisis that hit the national football governing body regarding the documentation issue of seven national heritage players recently. The NFDP programme, which was launched in 2014, is a programme to improve the quality of national football by training players at the grassroots level, to produce world-class players to play on the international stage. On Nov 3, the International Football Federation (FIFA) rejected the appeal by FAM and seven heritage players, namely Gabriel Felipe Arrocha, Facundo Tomas Garces, Rodrigo Julian Holgado, Imanol Javier Machuca, Joao Vitor Brandao Figueiredo, Jon Irazabal Iraurgui and Hector Alejandro Hevel Serrano. The Fifa Appeals Committee has upheld the punishment imposed by the world football governing body’s Disciplinary Committee on FAM and the seven heritage players for offences relating to forged documents under Article 22 of the Fifa Disciplinary Code (FDC). In this regard, FAM was ordered to pay a fine of CHF350,000 (RM1.8 million) while each player was fined CHF2,000 (RM11,000). The seven players were also suspended for 12 months from all football-related activities. – BernamaENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE: Bournemouth 0 Everton 1 (Grealish 78), Fulham 4 (Smith Rowe 45+2, Iwobi 57, Chukwueze 72, 78) Manchester City 5 (Haaland 17, Reijnders 37, Foden 44, 48, Berge 54-og), Newcastle 2 (Guimaraes 71, Gordon 86-pen) Tottenham 2 (Romero 78, 90+5). P W D L F A Pts Arsenal 13 9 3 1 25 7 30 Man City 14 9 1 4 32 16 28 Chelsea 13 7 3 3 24 12 24 Aston Villa 13 7 3 3 16 11 24 Brighton 13 6 4 3 21 16 22 Sunderland 13 6 4 3 17 13 22 Man Utd 13 6 3 4 21 20 21 Liverpool 13 7 0 6 20 20 21 Everton 14 6 3 5 15 17 21 Crystal Palace 13 5 5 3 17 11 20 Tottenham 14 5 4 5 23 18 19 Brentford 13 6 1 6 21 20 19 Newcastle 14 5 4 5 19 18 19 Bournemouth 14 5 4 5 21 24 19 Fulham 14 5 2 7 19 22 17 Nottm Forest 13 3 3 7 13 22 12 West Ham 13 3 2 8 15 27 11 Leeds 13 3 2 8 13 25 11 Burnley 13 3 1 9 15 27 10 Wolves 13 0 2 11 7 28 2CHAMPIONSHIP: Blackburn Rovers 1 Ipswich Town 1.TOP 10 P W D L F A Pts Coventry 18 13 4 1 50 18 43 Mid’boro 18 9 6 3 24 19 33 Millwall 18 9 4 5 22 25 31 Stoke 18 9 3 6 26 14 30 Preston 18 8 6 4 25 19 30 Bristol City 18 8 5 5 26 20 29 Ipswich 18 7 7 4 30 19 28 Birmingham 18 8 4 6 27 20 28 Hull 18 8 4 6 30 30 28 Wrexham 18 6 8 4 23 20 26LA LIGA: Barcelona 3 (Raphinha 26, Olmo 65, Torres 90+7) Atletico Madrid 1 (Baena 19).TOP 6 P W D L F A Pts Barcelona 15 12 1 2 42 17 37 Real Madrid 14 10 3 1 29 13 33 Villarreal 14 10 2 2 29 13 32 Atletico 15 9 4 2 28 14 31 Real Betis 14 6 6 2 22 14 24 Espanyol 14 7 3 4 18 16 24SPANISH CUP (2nd rd): Navalcarnero 2 Getafe 3, Guadalajara 1 AD Ceuta 0, CD Ebro 3 Osasuna 5, Club Portugalete 0 Alaves 3, Racing Ferrol 0 Huesca 2, Numancia 2 Mallorca 3. ITALIAN CUP (last 16): Juventus 2 Udinese 0.GERMAN CUP (last 16): Hertha BSC 6 Kaiserslautern 1, Borussia M'gladbach 1 St. Pauli 2, RB Leipzig 3 Magdeburg 1, Borussia Dortmund 0 Bayer Leverkusen 1.RESULTS & STANDINGSAll jackpot amounts stated above are for this Draw. Subject to T&Cs of the Scheme. Please visit to www.magnum4d.my for more info.THE BIGGER PLAY IS TO PLAY RESPONSIBLY293/25 03/12/202567821268107597041673566839219656447823447563249145669558115680698121635535732885430729857157RM14,912,840.25RM376,826.076782 + 12681268 + 67821075 + 67826782 + 10751268 + 10751075 + 12681 3 10 11 15 17 21 3516 26RM11,008,046.67RM100,000.0082687582687 268758268 6875826 8758 2 7 56 81 7Vets win Asia Cup gold medalsSULTAN Ahmad Shah Malaysian Veterans Hockey Association players achieved a rare double, winning two gold medals in the World Masters Men’s Asian Continental Championship 2025 held at the Hong Kong Sports Club from Nov 25- 30. Coach V. Kalimuthu’s 060s squad managed to defend their title won last year, while the 050s squad, guided by former international and Olympian Maninderjit Singh, won the championship for the first time in their history. The 060s team was in top form to defeat Hong Kong 5-0 in the final. In the preliminary round, the veterans thrashed Singapore 11-0, edged Japan 3-2 and beat South Korea 5-3. The team started the rout in the final through captain and former international Soon Mustaffa in the 13th minute and followed by R. Chandrasegar (18th), Zaiharin Jauhari (32nd), Harcharanjit Sundar (49th), and Datuk Seri Surinder Singh Dhaliwal made the final score in the 56th minute. In the 050s competition, Malaysia coached by Eugene Lee defeated Japan 3-0 in the final to claim victory. The players got off to a flying start in the preliminary rounds with a 4-0 win over Singapore and drew 1-1 with Hong Kong. In the third match, they crushed Bangladesh 8-0. In the final, skipper Sunil Eyamo netted the first goal in the 30th minute and Guna Baladisnan scored six minutes later to increased the lead. Sunil secured the gold medal for Malaysia by scoring their crucial third goal.KBS sec-gen told to review Makaf’s GPS applicationMINISTRY of Youth and Sports (KBS) secretarygeneral (KSU) Datuk Dr K. Nagulendran has been asked to review the Sports Matching Grant (GPS) application by the Malaysia Karate Federation (Makaf), regarding the total allocation for the organisation of WKF (World Karate Federation) Karate1-Series A Kuala Lumpur 2025 Championship in Nilai, in October. Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh said the complaint voiced by Makaf president Datuk Nur Azmi Ahmad as reported by the media yesterday had merit given that the championship was world-class and involved a large number of athletes. “Actually, we are not neglecting any sports… The Sports Matching Grant Committee is chaired by the KSU at the Ministry of Youth and Sports, and I am not on the committee. “So I think there is a reason why Datuk Nur Azmi is not happy because we do depend on karate to bring back medals and bring a lot of revenue for the country,” she said at a press conference after attending the 2025 Sepak Takraw Perpaduan Kaum Basic Sports Training Course (KLAS) yesterday. On Tuesday, the media reported that Nur Azmi was disappointed after KBS only approved an allocation of RM450,000, an amount that was deemed unreasonable compared to the actual cost of organising the tournament in Nilai which reached RM1.5 million, in addition to the funds still not being received even though the tournament has been completed. Nur Azmi said the amount also did not commensurate with the scale of the international-level competition, involving 1,200 athletes from 82 countries, apart from having to reject the WKF offer for Malaysia to host the international tournament again next year after not receiving support to organise the competition. Yeoh said she truly understood the situation experienced by Makaf and once again wanted KBS secretary-general to review the GPS for them to facilitate the organisation of the tournament offered by WKF next year. – BernamaŰ BY P. CHANDRA SAGARANThe 050s squad created history by emerging champion for the first time.Young Tigers fail to qualify for WC quartersTHE national men’s junior hockey squad failed to qualify for the quarterfinals of the 2025 Men’s FIH Junior World Cup when they lost 1-3 to England in their last Group E match at Madurai International Hockey Stadium, Tamil Nadu, India yesterday. Holland had topped Group E after thrashing Austria 11-0 to secure nine points, England second with six points, Malaysia third with three points while Austria is last without any points. Only the top team of each group, along with the best two runners-up advance to the quarterfinals, while the other four runners-up and four of the best third-placed teams will play in the ninth to 16th place classification matches. The remaining teams will play in the 17th to 24th place classification matches. – BernamaFAM favours Kim Swee Sports minister confirms former national coach’s recommendation for technical director

theSun is published and printed by Sun Media Corporation Sdn Bhd (221220-K) of Lot 6, Jalan 51/217, 46050 Petaling Jaya, Selangor. Tel: 03-7784 6688 • Tel (Editorial): 03-7784 6688 Fax: 03-7785 2625 Email: [email protected] • Tel (Advertising): 03-7784 8888 Email: [email protected] www.thesun.my Free access to iPaper PDF Download SCAN MEMalaysian PaperRead iPaper at Malaysian Paperor download from appthe App Store or Google PlayTM.Malaysian PaperSCAN ME THURSDAY | DEC 4, 2025Fulham’s Calvin Bassey (left) fouls Man City’s Erling Haaland during their English Premier League match at Craven Cottage yesterday. – AFPPICERLING HAALAND made history as the Manchester City striker became the fastest player to reach 100 Premier League goals in a remarkable 5-4 win against Fulham yesterday. Haaland’s clinical finish in the first half at Craven Cottage took him to his century in just 111 league appearances for City. He shattered the previous record set by former Newcastle and Blackburn star Alan Shearer, who took 124 matches to reach 100 goals. After Haaland’s landmark, Phil Foden scored twice to help City race into a 5-1 lead. But Fulham scored three times in a furious second-half fightback that fell just short when Josh King’s shot was cleared off the line by Josko Gvardiol in the final seconds. Second-placed City moved within two points of leaders Arsenal, who host Brentford in their game in hand overnight. “It’s incredible, impressive. He was outstanding, today he was unbelievable. He made a fantastic goal. Hopefully, he’s starving hungry to continue with this club to make more and more goals,” City boss Pep Guardiola said of Haaland. Yet after squandering a two-goal advantage in their last-gasp 3-2 win against Leeds on Saturday, Guardiola was alarmed by the latest meltdown from his leaky defence. “Of course, I was concerned. But this will help us in future games. Every game is a new team for some players. You have to make a process to start to correct,” he said. “I’m so old, and the players don’t respect me! They don’t have to treat their manager in that way. “It only happens in this league. We played a fantastic game. Listen, there were some really positive things in what we have done. In the end, it was a question of character and resilience.” If City are to overhaul Arsenal and win the seventh English title of the Guardiola era, they will need Haaland to maintain his astonishingly prolific form. Haaland had failed to score in his previous three games against Newcastle, Bayer Leverkusen and Leeds. The 25-year-old, signed from Borussia Dortmund in 2022, ended that minidrought with the latest milestone in his glittering City career. Haaland produced a sumptuous finish to put City ahead in the 17th minute, giving him 15 league goals this term and 20 in all competitions. Jeremy Doku’s precise cut-back arrowed towards Haaland and he timed his run perfectly to unleash a ferocious blast that whistled past Fulham keeper Bernd Leno from 12 yards. Haaland turned from scorer to provider in the 37th minute as City doubled their lead with another eye-catching effort. Showing strength and poise in equal measure, Haaland worked space to clip a pin-point pass through to Reijnders and the Dutch midfielder scooped a deft chip over Leno for his first goal since August. Foden notched City’s third in the 44th minute, lashing a superb strike into the top corner from the edge of the area. Smith Rowe reduced the deficit in first half stoppage-time, steering a header past Gianluigi Donnarumma from Harry Wilson’s cross. But Foden, who also scored twice against Leeds, is back in form and the England star appeared to put the result beyond doubt three minutes after the interval. The 25-year-old guided a composed finish past Leno from an acute angle after Haaland flicked Doku’s pass towards the forward. City weren’t finished and in the 54th minute Doku’s curler from the edge of the area deflected in for Sander Berge own goal. But Guardiola’s men completely lost focus after that and Alex Iwobi side-footed home from 18 yards in the 57th minute. When Samuel Chukwueze blasted his first goal for Fulham in the 72nd minute, City began to sweat and their anxiety mounted six minutes later. Chukwueze squeezed his shot through a crowd of players after Donnarumma failed to deal with a corner. City finally battened down the hatches in eight minutes of stoppage-time to ensure Haaland’s big night wasn’t eclipsed. While it was a game that certainly delivered in the entertainment stakes, City’s followers will have seen there need to be improvements at the back if Guardiola’s side are to truly challenge leaders Arsenal. City’s attacking strength is not in question – their first four shots on target resulted in goals in this game, while both Haaland and Foden are in the sort of form this season that will make almost any team in the Premier League struggle to stop them. But while their play going forward has certainly been worthy of title winners, their defence is lagging way behind. Arsenal have conceded just seven goals in 13 games in the Premier League, but City have let in more than double that with 16 in just 14 games. It is rare for City in a title-winning campaign to have conceded as many as that at this stage of the season, happening once – in 2023/24 – in Guardiola’s six Premier League title-winning seasons. – AFP/AgenciesChaos at the CottageHaaland century makes Premier League history in City’s nine-goal thriller