Malaysian Paper www.thesun.my RM1.00 PER COPY RM1 FRIDAY DEC 29, 2023 SCAN ME No. 8425 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195) Award-winning singer’s journey to success Report on — page 2 Sarawak lass attributes achievements to Ola Bola project, inspiration from diary and guidance from US record label. Promote unity romote unity in schools Report on — page 4 Number of flood evacuees surpasses 28,000 Kelantan worst affected, followed by Terengganu and Pahang, while situation in Johor and Sabah unchanged. Report on — page 5 Survey data reflects evolving nature of cyber threats and need for comprehensive measures to safeguard personal information. Report on — page 3 A resident buying a container in George Town yesterday in preparation for the water supply disruption. – BERNAMAPIC 63% of M’sians worry about mobile security Teachers serve as catalyst to ensure next generation appreciates, embraces rich diversity of races, religions and cultures: Academician 590,000 in Penang to experience dry taps GEORGE TOWN: About 590,000 users in Penang will experience scheduled water supply disruptions or low water pressure for four days from Jan 10 to 14. State Infrastructure and Transport Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari said the water cut was to allow the Penang Water Supply Corporation to carry out repair works at the Sungai Dua Water Treatment Plant. He said the repairs involve replacing two valves measuring 1,200mm that have been leaking. “This disruption is unavoidable because it involves large-scale maintenance. This is because some of the damaged valves have not been replaced for 50 years. “Repairs were supposed to be carried out at the end of last year but was postponed. So this time, it cannot be put off any longer for fear of causing sudden damage that may result in more serious problems, including for users in the long term,” he told a press conference. Zairil said in addition to the valve replacements, other repair works would also be carried out at 22 locations throughout Penang during the period. He added that water tankers would be mobilised to the affected areas, especially hospitals and dialysis centres during the period, Bernama reported. “In addition to water tanks, we are also working with local authorities and the Fire and Rescue Department to send water tankers to the affected areas.” More than 50 areas will be affected by the disruption, including Seberang Perai, as well as George Town, Pulau Tikus, Jelutong, Gelugor, Bukit Jambul, Relau, Bayan Lepas (including the airport), Bayan Baru, Batu Maung, Teluk Kumbar, Teluk Tempoyak, Pulau Jerejak and Pulau Betong.
FRIDAY | DEC 29, 2023 2 PUTRAJAYA: The Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah has expressed her appreciation to the Prisons Department for reviving the Royal Pahang Weave, which was considered a dying textile art form at one point. She said staff and inmates of the prison had contributed significantly to the production of the Royal Pahang Weave, making it wellknown globally. “Between 2004 and 2005, there were only 15 weavers in Pahang. For me, it was crucial. I said if nothing was done, the Royal Pahang Weave would just die off. “It was the Malaysian Prisons Department that helped me revive the Royal Pahang Weave.” She was speaking at the Symphony of Love 2023 event on Wednesday, organised by the department. The Queen, who is also the Royal Patron for Arts and Crafts of the department, said the beauty of the weavings by prison inmates attracted much attention, including when they were displayed at an exhibition held in May for the London Craft Week. She added that there were even requests from the prisons departments of Singapore, the Philippines and Japan to learn about the Malaysian textile art. “Fortunately, prisoners here can learn something that can uplift them when they get out. I ask you Play role in promoting unity, educators urged oTeachers serve as catalyst to ensure next generation appreciates, embraces nation’s rich diversity of races, religions and cultures: Academician PETALING JAYA: With racial stereotyping still a problem in the country despite 66 years of independence, an academician has called on educational institutions to play a key role in strengthening unity among the people. National Association of Private Educational Institutions secretarygeneral Dr Teh Choon Jin said initiatives that promote understanding within the framework of Malaysia’s diverse multicultural landscape are a must. “The Malaysia Madani concept, which is rooted in six core values, namely sustainability, compassion, respect, innovation, prosperity and trust, underscores the government’s commitment to fostering social inclusion. “Educators are driving initiatives that celebrate the country’s rich cultural tapestry. For instance, students are given platforms to host festivals representing Malaysia’s diverse ethnicities.” Teh said events like National Day and Cultural Day serve as reminders of “unity amid diversity”. He added that teachers serve as catalysts to guide students in their endeavours and ensure that the next generation appreciates and embraces the beauty of living in a country that has a rich diversity of races, religions and cultures. “However, achieving ‘real’ social inclusion in Malaysian schools can be challenging because, despite various efforts, the wider community’s polarised narratives are often made worse by ‘skewed’ media reporting that can reinforce race and religious biases among students.” Teh said language-centric environments such as those in vernacular schools, and limited cross-cultural interactions further entrench ethnic divisions. He said the home environment, which is pivotal in shaping young minds, sometimes perpetuates negative stereotypes and undermines school-driven initiatives. Teh said while educators aim to foster unity, in the broader societal context, familial and communal dynamics continue to be factors influencing racial biases. “Fostering inclusivity demands a holistic strategy that engages schools, families and communities in a concerted effort to build a harmonious coexistence.” Teh said professional development opportunities are important for educators aiming to bolster social inclusion and unity within classrooms. He said participation in diversity workshops offers practical insights into cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds and equips educators with strategies to nurture an inclusive environment that bridges communication gaps. “Tackling ethnic polarisation requires culturally sensitive measures that promote constructive interactions among different ethnicities in school. “Beyond the surface-level introduction of ‘tolerance’ in curricula, there is an urgent need to instil a profound appreciation for the nation’s diverse religions, cultures, festivals and histories, emphasising national unity.” Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris social communications lecturer Dr Khairul Azam Bahari said media portrayal plays an important role in shaping societal perceptions and attitudes. “Although the media showcases stories of unity, like during the Merdeka month, there’s a lack of consistent and sustained efforts to uphold these values. “For genuine unity to be fostered, media organisations must adopt a more proactive approach to showcase narratives that celebrate Malaysian diversity.” Khairul Azam said the role of influencers and content creators would become increasingly important in shaping perceptions and fostering inclusivity. “Although there is no denying the appeal of making money on the internet, influencers also must use their reach to benefit society and change negative perceptions of race and religion. “Efforts such as national peace movements led by influential figures, can create a lasting impact beyond online trends. Social communication should influence unity in society and not just be for personal gain.” Tunku Azizah handing the Ikon Anugerah Kasih award to Abu Hasan, who received it on behalf of Mohd Rosli at the event in Putrajaya yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC Queen lauds Prisons Dept for textile art initiative Damage to homes being assessed KOTA BHARU: The Housing and Local Government Ministry will, via its agencies, identify the damage caused to floodaffected homes before taking appropriate action. Its deputy minister Datuk Aiman Athirah Sabu said the ministry had to follow certain procedures before any form of aid could be given. “The programme to repair houses of flood victims is still ongoing and there has been no announcement for it to be stopped. “What we see is that the Madani government is very focused on such matters (assistance). Although Kelantan is not in the federal government, it is still given attention,” she said yesterday. Earlier, she visited the Kelantan Fire and Rescue Department, where she was given a briefing on the flood situation by its director Zainal Madasin. █ BYRAVEEN AINGARAN [email protected] not to look down on people in prison.” The Symphony of Love 2023 event, attended by more than 800 guests, was held with the strategic cooperation of the Malaysian Prisons Department, Malaysian Correctional Foundation, National Prihatin Foundation, Association of Wives, Children and Women Members of Prisons Department as well as the department’s staff. Tunku Azizah was accompanied by her daughter Tengku Puteri Raja Tengku Puteri Jihan Azizah Athiyatullah. The charity event was held to thank the Queen for the many opportunities provided to prison staff and inmates to work on textile art, including the Royal Pahang Weave, songket, and batik. Tunku Azizah also presented the Icon of Dedication Award (Prison Staff) to Sjn-Mej Raja Mohamad Raja Adam and the Icon of Love Award (Prison Inmate) to Mohd Rosli Zulkifli, who were represented by Pahang Prisons director Datuk Abu Hassan Hussain. – Bernama Hold prayers for flood-hit residents, says minister PUTRAJAYA: Mosques and surau in the country have been encouraged to hold solat hajat (prayer of need) for the safety and well-being of the country and all flood evacuees, said Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar. He said the department is deeply saddened by the disaster that has befallen people in several states over the past few days. “May all those affected by floods be given strength in facing the challenges they are currently enduring,” he said in a statement yesterday. He added that he had instructed agencies and all units under the department to collaborate with the authorities and assist flood evacuees using existing aid funds. Mohd Na’im said he, along with the agencies, would go on the ground and assist flood victims in the affected states. “I will arrive in Kuala Lumpur after concluding my visit to Dayah Madani, Aceh, Indonesia. My visit to Indonesia was to strengthen cooperation between the two countries, especially involving Muslims of both nations. “I have cut short the visit due to the floods.” He also expressed his appreciation for frontline personnel. – Bernama RM6m for temporary embankments PASIR MAS: The government has approved an immediate allocation of RM6 million to construct temporary embankments, including a spillway structure for the Sungai Golok Integrated River Basin Development Project to solve the problem of stagnant floodwaters in Rantau Panjang. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the embankments must be constructed as soon as possible. “The state Irrigation and Drainage Department (DID) has proposed for temporary embankments to be constructed at three locations, each to cost RM2 million. “So, the DID’s request for RM6 million has been approved immediately,” he said, after visiting flood evacuees at the temporary relief centre at SMK Agama Lati yesterday. – Bernama
FRIDAY | DEC 29, 2023 3 PETALING JAYA: Malaysia has been ranked second in a survey involving 48 Asian countries, with 63% of the people expressing concerns over privacy and security of their mobile devices. The report was released recently by Telenor Asia, a telecommunication company that accelerates mobile adoption and specialises in connectivity and digital services, apart from overseeing governance, strategy and planning for its Asian operations. “Across Asia, nine out of 10 individuals are (concerned) about their digital safety. The top three countries to express concerns are the Philippines, Malaysia and Pakistan.” Universiti Malaya Computer System and Technology Department senior lecturer Prof Dr Ainuddin Wahid Abdul Wahab said the high level of concern reflects the evolving nature of cyber threats and the need for comprehensive measures to safeguard personal information. “Telenor’s data underscores a pressing need for enhanced measures in data privacy protection and digital safety. “As our lives become increasingly digitised, individuals must be proactive and adopt secure practices, and companies must prioritise data privacy in their operations.” Ainuddin said it is now necessary to provide and disclose personal data to service providers, even those abroad, as it is a crucial aspect of a globalised economy and interconnected world. He also said external service providers play a key role in supporting functions such as data storage, IT services and customer support. “Malaysia is an export-oriented economy that attracts foreign direct investments and many of our businesses operate on a global scale. “Therefore, as multinational companies operate in the country, the exchange of personal data is essential for them to manage their global operations, coordinate cross-border activities and comply with international standards and regulations.” Ainuddin said the sheer volume of data exchanged between financial institutions, government entities and service providers raises questions about the ability of individuals to fully safeguard their personal information. “The report shows people are now more cognisant of the potential threats lurking in the digital realm. This heightened awareness calls for collective efforts from industry, policymakers and users themselves to effectively address the concerns.” While emphasising the importance of collaborative efforts between public and private sectors in data protection, he said it is crucial to work together to ensure the public feels secure in the digital space. He said this includes implementing robust data protection policies, raising awareness and fostering a culture of responsible digital citizenship. On the Privacy Protection Act, he emphasised the importance of understanding how personal data is processed to make informed decisions, adding that the overarching challenge lies in striking a balance between privacy concerns and the efficiency of the systems used. He also said the disclosure of personal data requires careful consideration to prevent compromising the security of individuals in the pursuit of economic and technological advancement. Ainuddin warned individuals to exercise control over their data through opt-in or opt-out options, even when disclosing personal data to official entities. “A growing trend among companies is to outsource functions like data analytics and customer support to third parties. “The disclosure of personal data to government departments for eligibility verification in financial assistance programmes may inadvertently expose individuals to greater privacy risks.” He said as technology continues to advance, the public and the government must remain vigilant in advocating for robust privacy protections that safeguard personal information from threats present in cyberspace. Rafizi quashes ‘waste of money’ claim KUALA LUMPUR: Minister of Economy Rafizi Ramli has denied allegations from “voices of dissent” claiming that the development of the government’s Central Database System (CDS) is a waste as it involves contracts worth hundreds of millions of ringgit. Rafizi said CDS was fully developed by civil servants from three agencies – the Economy Ministry, Statistics Department (DOSM) and the Malaysian Administrative Modernisation and Management Planning Unit (Mampu) – in collaboration with all other agencies. “For me, the strength of the system lies in the fact that it involves the expertise of civil servants, not consultants and external contractors,” he said in a post on his Facebook page yesterday. He said civil servants developed the system using existing allocations and infrastructure without the need to open new tenders to private entities and did not incur additional expenses, as is often the case whenever a new system is introduced. Rafizi said CDS was developed within seven months (May to December) and would not involve annual payments to private system providers because it belongs to the government. “It was completed within a short period by civil servants who worked day and night for seven months without additional allocations. “I threw a challenge to the core team from the Economy Ministry, DOSM and Mampu, saying it is an opportunity to prove the expertise of civil servants,” he said, adding that recognition should be given to the civil servants. – Bernama Personal data privacy jitters oExercise control over information via exclusion option even when engaging with official entities, says expert Envoy keen to boost Algerian-M’sian interaction KUALA LUMPUR: Algerian ambassador to Malaysia Abdelhafid Bounour said efforts are under way to raise awareness among Malaysians about Algeria and showcase his country’s many opportunities and strengths. He said since his arrival in Malaysia over six months ago, he observed that Algeria is not well known in Malaysia. “In this regard, I wish to underscore the importance of developing Algeria-Malaysia relations in key areas such as trade, investment, tourism, education and culture,” he said. During a meeting with local journalists at his official residence here, Abdelhafid expressed desire to strengthen ties between the two “brotherly countries” and explore new opportunities for cooperation. He also said “significant progress” has been made in Algeria’s public health system, education, housing programmes, social security, food subsidies, economy and in ensuring equal status for men and women, adding that such initiatives have contributed to the social achievements of Algeria. While encouraging Malaysian companies to explore investment opportunities in Algeria, Abdelhafid expressed confidence that future bilateral relations would be fruitful. He advocated strengthening cooperation in the tourism sector and encouraged the creation of specialised agencies or organisations to develop bilateral tourism. He also said one of his objectives is to enhance cooperation opportunities and promote cultural exchanges, paving the way for exceptional tourism cooperation between the two countries. Abdelhafid concluded the meeting by reaffirming his commitment to “intensifying exchanges and strengthening AlgerianMalaysian cooperation. Also present at the meeting was Malaysian Inbound Tourism Association president Uzaidi Udanis, who said he looked forward to more tourism-related initiatives by Algeria, such as having a physical tourism centre in future. He added that such a centre would be very useful as a cultural bridge between the two countries, and invited Malaysians to explore the rich tapestry of Algerian culture while promoting Malaysia to Algerians. “With citizens of both countries enjoying visa-free travel, the centre could be a conduit for meaningful people-to-people connections, fostering a spirit of friendship and mutual understanding,” he said. Respite for residents facing eviction PUTRAJAYA: Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Dr Zaliha Mustafa said the TAR Education Foundation has no objection in principle to allow Kampung Setia Jaya residents in Setapak to continue staying at the site until the relocation issue is resolved. She said this was the outcome of a discussion with representatives from the foundation, Tan Sri Lim Keng Cheng and Datuk Seri Yew Teong Look. “Overall, I found the discussion to be a positive one and I am confident that this issue can be resolved after more than 30 years,“ she said in a statement. Zaliha added that the discussion also focused on the issue of replacement houses for the residents, which will be detailed later. – Bernama █ BYSIVANISVARRY MORHAN [email protected] █ BYAZLAN RAMLI [email protected] FAMILY FUN ... Graphic designer Izmi Haarith Mohamad Danari and his children enjoying some of the school holiday activities held yesterday at the National Library in Kuala Lumpur. – BERNAMAPIC
FRIDAY | DEC 29, 2023 4 Award-winning singer recounts journey to top /thesundaily FOLLOW ON FACEBOOK Malaysian Paper Enclosed is my payment of RM payable to SUN MEDIA CORPORATION SDN BHD. Please WhatsApp your bank-in slip to 0182929936 or email to [email protected] *Not inclusive of vendor service charge Stay informed with the latest news and trends All the best articles from Monday to Friday 32 pages full colour Subscribe now for Monday-Friday copies of theSun newspaper 6 month subscription (128 issues) for only RM110* (Normal price RM128) 1 year subscription (258 issues) for only RM200* (Normal price RM258) 1 year subscription at normal price RM258* (258 issues) + RM50 administration fee to get 2nd year free PERSONAL PARTICULARS Name: NRIC: Race: Malay Chinese Indian Others Profession: Commencement date: Delivery Address: Residence Ofice Postcode: State: Tel: Mobile No: E-mail: DETAILS OF CURRENT NEWS VENDOR (IF ANY) Vendor name: Contact no: For your convenience, you may call or send in your subscription particulars via any of the following: Tel: KL/PJ 03-7781 4000, 03-7784 6688 (9.30am - 5pm, Monday to Friday) Fax: 03-7781 4484 Post: P.O. Box 179, Jalan Sultan, 46720 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan Attn: Subscription Email: [email protected] *Terms & Conditions apply Important note: SMCSB reserves the right to revise the price at any time without prior notice. (*Limited to ffrst 1,000 subscribers) Pay to Maybank ( Account number 508177700420 ) Account name ( SUN MEDIA CORPORATION SDN BHD ) Nov 8 to Nov 10 Malaysian Paper www.thesun.my RM1 WEDNESDAY NOV 8, 2023 No. 8389 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195) SCAN ME Casino chip heist: Five more identified Police have detained a total of 10 suspects, including a Chinese national, in connection with the RM4.6m theft at Genting Highlands on Oct 28. Congratulations! You are holding the first edition A new sunrise of our new 32-page paper featuring more of the great content you have loved for the past 30 years. Copies will be free until Friday and will be available via subscription and at newsstands beginning Monday for only RM1. Muruku Buntong entrepreneur’s Deepavali snack, made from a still a national favourite 60-year-old recipe, is constantly in high demand. Chicken price float benefits consumers A week after subsidies ended, market prices are competitive and lower than subsidised prices, says expert. Full report —on page 3 Full report —on page 6 Full report —on page 4 Citing protection of country’s interests in terms of diplomatic, economic relations and security as reasons for joining meeting, Anwar says he remains steadfast in defending justice and rights of Palestinians. I will show up at Apec Story on page 2 Full story -on page 2 SCAN TO SUBSCRIBE CNY cheer for senior citizens KUALA LUMPUR: Senior citizens aged 60 and above are in for a treat, thanks to STM Lottery Sdn Bhd, which is launching its 37th Sports Toto Chinese New Year Ang Pow Donation Campaign on Jan 18. To be launched at the main entrance of the Boulevard at the iconic Berjaya Times Square, the campaign will continue until Jan 23 and aims to benefit senior citizens in 50 cities and towns nationwide. STM Lottery deputy general manager (Communications and Sustainability) Giam Say Khoon said qualified senior citizens would receive a mini hamper and a red packet. “Recipients must bring their MyKad for age verification. Please be at the venue before 9am as we will start distributing the items on a first-come, first-served basis from then until 10.30am. Representatives of recipients are not allowed to collect items on their behalf,“ he said, adding that those from other locations must register on an earlier date. The campaign started in 1988, with STM Lottery contributing more than RM24.3 million, benefitting over 437,000 senior citizens nationwide. “The campaign is an integral part of our Helping Hands programme, which is a CSR and sustainability initiative by STM Lottery,“ Giam said. For more information, visit any Toto outlet, sportstoto.com.my or call the Sports Toto customer careline at 03-2148 9779. – by Joshua Purushotman STM Lottery staff during a photo shoot to promote the event. PETALING JAYA: Popular Malaysian singer-songwriter Zee Avi recently bagged the award for Asean Master Class Performance Artiste of the Year at the Asean Outstanding Business Awards 2023. The Sarawakian-born performer, whose full name is Izyan Alirahman, has had her tunes featured in many popular movies and television series such as 21 Jump Street, Gossip Girl, Good Doctor and most notably, local film Ola Bola. She said she started her career in 2009 when she signed with Brushfire Records, a record label in the US. Currently, she is a self-funded and independent artiste. “Brushfire Records were genuine people with a passion for making music, and I am fortunate to have them guide me through the music industry.” Zee said her success led her to win “Best Original Theme Song” at both the 28th Malaysia Film Festival and Taipei Golden Horse Film Festival in 2016, for her hit song Arena Cahaya. The song was featured oArtiste attributes achievements to Ola Bola project, inspiration for songs from diary and guidance from US record label █ BYALLEN WONG [email protected] in Ola Bola, the 10th-highestgrossing Malaysian film of all time, which she cited as her favourite collaborative project. “I was a big fan of the director Chiu Keng Guan because I enjoyed his previous movie The Journey. Zee said the inspiration for her songs came from the pages of her diary, and were based on her experiences and relationships. “Music is not just about putting a melody together. It calls for understanding the kind of stories you wish to tell, and the emotions you would like for it to evoke within yourself.” After spending almost two decades building her career abroad, Zee returned to Malaysia in 2019 and said her family was the reason she did so. “Before I made my career move to the US, I was a student in the UK for three years. I have been away from home for more than half my life since I was 18 years old. “I had a good run. But now, I want to be with my family because my parents are getting old.” Aside from focusing on her musical pursuits, Zee wants to support local talents by offering advice and lending an ear to aspiring musicians and songwriters who are just starting out. “I have a 21-year-old brother. He is a talented musician who is at his starting stage. I will be there to support him until he becomes a successful artiste someday.” Zee also said having a community with people of the same interest and mindset is good for young musicians. “It is important for them to have the support of those around them.” Her advice to aspiring musicians and songwriters is to explore more while still young.
FRIDAY | DEC 29, 2023 5 GUA MUSANG: The Orang Asli Development Department will send food aid to seven posts of the Orang Asli community in the Gua Musang district affected by floods through the assistance of strategic partners. Its deputy director-general (development) Mohd Zamri Mustajap said roads being cut off due to floods was one of the factors behind the department’s decision to rope in agencies and strategic partners for the purpose. He also did not rule out the possibility of needing the services of the Fire and Rescue Department to send aid by air to settlements in the interior such as Pos Hau, Pos Tohoi, Pos Belatim, Pos Balar, Pos Bihai, Pos Simpor and Pos Gob involving more than 1,000 families. “We have discussed with suppliers and agencies involved. “For areas that require air services, we will discuss with the relevant agencies on weather conditions and other matters,” he said at the Kuala Betis Resettlement Scheme here on Wednesday. The distribution of food baskets had already started on Tuesday in several settlements that could be reached by road. More than 200 food baskets were distributed to the affected residents. – Bernama oMore than 28,000 being housed at 137 relief centres, with Kelantan having highest number at over 21,000 displaced residents KUALA LUMPUR: The number of flood evacuees being housed at 137 relief centres in five states rose to 28,032 yesterday morning from 25,763 the previous night. The latest report issued by the national disaster management agency’s national disaster command centre stated that Kelantan still have the highest number of evacuees with 21,377 at 68 relief centres in five districts, up from 19,423 at 8pm on Wednesday. According to the report, 37 relief centres were opened in Pasir Mas housing 18,289 people, 19 centres in Kuala Krai with 1,136, five centres each in Tanah Merah with 327 and Tumpat with 1,507 as well as 118 at two centres in Gua Musang, as at 6am yesterday. In Terengganu, the number of evacuees rose to 6,289 at 59 relief centres yesterday morning compared with 5,983 at 60 centres the previous night in Dungun, Hulu Terengganu, Kemaman, Kuala Terengganu, Marang and Setiu, Bernama reported. The number of evacuees in Pahang rose to 214 yesterday morning from 206 the night before, all staying at five relief centres in Jerantut, Kuantan, Lipis and Cameron Highlands. The report said a relief centre in Cameron Highlands was opened to accommodate 87 people, who were Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim visiting evacuees at a relief centre in SMK Agama Lati in Pasir Mas, Kelantan yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC Agencies enlisted to send aid to Orang Asli Wheelchair-bound traveller on mission to raise accessibility awareness GEORGE TOWN: Hassan Imam became paralysed due to polio when he was a child, but that did not stop him from exploring Southeast Asia on a wheelchair to raise awareness about the critical need for accessibility. Hassan, 25, from Bihar, India started his journey after he successfully travelled from India to Bangladesh in his wheelchair crossing approximately 10,000km. He had taken seven months to complete the India-Bangladesh expedition starting from March. “The awareness campaign aims to improve accessibility for people with disabilities in public places. This is a campaign that deserves a lot of attention in the contemporary world.” Hassan, who studied Russian at Jawaharlal Nehru University, Delhi, hopes to someday travel to the country. He arrived in Kuala Lumpur from Chennai, India by plane early this month. “From Kuala Lumpur, I continued my journey using a wheelchair to Perak before arriving in Penang in four days. “I will continue my journey to Kedah and Perlis before continuing to Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos and China.” Hassan said throughout his “World Trip On Wheelchair” journey, people had came forward to help with food, money and accommodation. During his expedition, Hassan learned that most tourist attractions and public transport systems do not have ramps for wheelchair users. “Many theatres, hotels and malls in India are still not wheelchair friendly, but most places like in Malaysia have adopted a wheelchair-friendly concept,” he added. His vehicle is battery-powered and can be used as a wheelchair and a scooter at the same time. The vehicle is the brainchild of a group of students from Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, and can travel about 40km on a single charge. – Bernama Man gets 15 years for raping friend’s daughter KLANG: The Sessions Court yesterday sentenced an unemployed man to 15 years’ jail and ordered him to be given three strokes of the cane after finding him guilty of raping his friend’s daughter last year. Judge Syafeera Mohd Said passed the sentence on Mohamad Zainol Hafiz Mohamad Azmi, 26, after finding that the defence had failed to raise a reasonable doubt. She ordered Mohamad Zainol Hafiz to serve the jail sentence immediately, and to undergo counselling throughout his imprisonment, as well as to be placed on a two-year probation supervision after completing his time. He was charged with raping the 12-year-old girl at a house in Sawah Sempadan, Tanjung Karang at 4am on Feb 6, 2022. The charge, under Section 376 (1) of the Penal Code, provides for a maximum 20-year jail term and whipping. Deputy public prosecutor Nurul ‘Izzati Mohamad appeared for the prosecution while Mohamad Zainol Hafiz was represented by counsel Izzat Amir Saharudin. – Bernama Jail, caning for committing unnatural sex KLANG: A restaurant assistant was sentenced to 10 years’ imprisonment and three strokes of the cane by the Sessions Court here yesterday after being found guilty of committing unnatural sex on his seven-year-old niece three years ago. Judge Syafeera Mohd Said ordered the 20-year-old man to serve the jail sentence immediately, and to undergo counselling throughout his imprisonment. He was charged with committing carnal intercourse against the order of nature without consent on the victim at a house in Banting near here at 11.30pm on March 27, 2020. The charge, under Section 377C of the Penal Code, provides for a maximum 20-year jail term and whipping. Deputy public prosecutor Nur Ayuni Jamri appeared for the prosecution while the man was represented by counsel Muhammad Syawal Mohd Razak. In the same court, Ahmad Iszhar Hardy, 20, was charged under Section 14(a) of the Sexual Offences Against Children Act 2017 for sexual assault of his 17-year-old female friend. He pleaded not guilty. – Bernama evacuated due to a landslide. In Sabah, 31 evacuees were being housed at two relief centres in Pitas as at 6am yesterday, a slight increase from 30 at 8pm on Wednesday. In Johor, the number of evacuees remained unchanged at 121 at three relief centres in Mersing and Segamat districts. Meanwhile, Sungai Kelantan in Pasir Mas, Sungai Golok in Tumpat, Sungai Golok in Pasir Mas and Sungai Kelantan in Kota Bharu were at the danger levels. In Terengganu, Sungai Kemaman, Sungai Dungun and Sungai Terengganu were also at danger levels. Number of flood evacuees increases in five states
FRIDAY | DEC 29, 2023 6 READ OUR HERE /thesun Malaysian Paper KUALA LUMPUR: The murder of Zayn Rayyan Abdul Matiin, an autistic boy whose body was found in a stream near his home at Apartment Idaman in Damansara Damai on Dec 6, is among the criminal cases that caught public attention in 2023. A day before the tragic discovery, his mother Ismanira Abdul Manaf, 28, shared on Facebook that her son had gone missing while they were using the stairs to their home in Block R after a trip to a playground nearby. Although initially classified as a missing child and sudden death case, an autopsy revealed that the six-year-old boy had been murdered, based on defensive wounds on his body. As of Dec 23, authorities have recorded statements from 225 individuals and collected 248 DNA samples. They have also sought Interpol’s assistance to unravel the mystery behind the child’s murder, which at press time remains unsolved. This year also saw some brutal murder cases, in which the perpetrators repeatedly stabbed or slashed their victims. On Dec 9, an elderly couple were found stabbed to death at their home in Kampung Sungai Penchala at around 7pm. Police sources said the couple, aged 82 and 72, were found lying in pools of blood in the living room after an argument with their son, 42, a suspected drug addict. On Dec 18, a woman was fatally stabbed multiple times by her lover at Jalan Bayu Tinggi 5 in Klang, in a case that is believed to be motivated by jealousy, Bernama reported. In another case, a 19-year-old man was killed during a fight with his girlfriend’s brother, and his body was found buried in the undergrowth behind the suspect’s home in Kampung Sungai Choh in Rawang on Dec 23. Police have arrested eight individuals, including three women aged between 19 and 45, to assist in the investigation under Section 302 of the Penal Code. Meanwhile, the influx of illegal immigrants into the country, which caused many problems, also received the attention of police top brass. On Dec 21, security forces conducted a surprise raid on “Mini Dhaka” in Jalan Silang in the federal capital and apprehended 1,101 illegal immigrants for various offences. This year, police also successfully dismantled several drug syndicates, with the most recent featuring the arrest of a man with a “Datuk” title. He is believed to be the mastermind behind Sabah’s largest drug ring. The man, who also serves as the patron of an NGO to mask the illegal activities conducted since 2015, was nabbed alongside nine other syndicate members. On Nov 18, Malacca police successfully crippled a drug trafficking syndicate with the seizure of various drugs estimated to be worth RM6.94 million following the arrest of three men aged 27 to 51. At the same time, the 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) scandal remained in the public eye. The company’s former lawyer, Jasmine Loo Ai Swan, was arrested by police on July 7. Former Goldman Sachs banker Roger Ng Chong Hwa, who is believed to have played a key role in the embezzlement of 1MDB funds, arrived from the US on Oct 8 to assist investigations into the case after being sentenced to 10 years in prison in New York. With Loo’s arrest, Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain said more assets linked to the 1MDB case would be confiscated and forfeited by the government through a court process. Body of boy who fell into river found KUALA TERENGGANU: The body of an 11-year-old boy, who fell into Sungai Tok Hakim in Kampung Tok Hakim near here on Wednesday, was found at 11am yesterday. Kuala Terengganu Fire and Rescue station chief Rozizah Abni Hajar said her team found the body of Muhammad Harraz Ilman Mohd Syahril Redhuan about 30m from where he was last seen. “The body was found face down at the bottom of the river. “We had difficulty finding the body due to weather conditions and the riverbed being full of undergrowth.” Muhammad Harraz Ilman was reported missing on Wednesday after he slipped and fell into the river while playing with his brother Muhammad Firas Wafiy, nine, and a friend at 4.46pm. A total of 72 personnel from various agencies, including the fire department K9 unit, took part in the search. – Bernama Murder cases capture public attention in 2023 oPolice seek help from Interpol in Zayn Rayyan probe Two lose RM500,000 in job, love scams JOHOR BAHRU: Two men have fallen prey to separate online job and love scams in Johor, losing a combined sum of RM495,520. In the first incident, a 57-year-old unemployed man was scammed of RM252,900 after falling prey to a part-time job offer by an individual via WhatsApp. Johor deputy police chief DCP M. Kumar said yesterday the victim lodged a police report on Dec 21 claiming the individual promised quick and lucrative earnings if he uploaded certain videos on social media as instructed and clicked on the “like” tab of provided links. “The victim did so and also transferred RM252,900 to several accounts as instructed. “However, he realised he had been cheated after failing to receive any of the returns promised, in addition to being instructed to transfer more funds to access the earnings,” he said in a statement. In the second case, Kumar said a 69-year-old retiree lost RM242,620 in a love scam. He said the man lodged a police report yesterday claiming he befriended a foreigner on social media and was cheated a month later. Kumar said the foreigner, who purportedly had a job in Malaysia, told the victim she was detained at the Immigration Department for not declaring cash which exceeded the permitted sum. “The foreigner sought the victim’s help to release her from detention and instructed him to transfer funds to several accounts, before vanishing.” He said both cases have been classified under Section 420 of the Penal Code. Kumar advised the public to be vigilant in their financial transactions and refer to the Commercial Crime Investigation Department Facebook and TikTok pages for information on the modus operandi of scams. – Bernama Four ‘Superman’ stunt bikers detained KUANTAN: Three university students and a secondary school boy, suspected of riding their motorcycles dangerously on the Ahmad Shah Bridge of the East Coast Expressway, were detained on Wednesday. Temerloh district police chief ACP Mazlan Hassan said his officers tracked down the motorcycles and detained the suspects, aged between 15 and 22, at their homes in Temerloh and Maran. “The suspects, who rode Yamaha YI5ZR motorcycles, also sustained various injuries, including to their hands and legs,” he said in a statement. He added that the suspects, all males, were taken to the Temerloh traffic police station to assist in the investigations under Section 42(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987 for riding recklessly and dangerously. Mazlan said his officers are in the process of tracking down another suspect and urged those with information on the incident to contact police at 09-271 6222. Earlier, a 28-second video showing a group of motorcyclists performing a “Superman” stunt that caused an accident on the expressway was posted on social media. The incident was found to have occurred on Sunday and was recorded by one of the motorcyclists. – Bernama Missing Singaporean found drowned KOTA TINGGI: A Singaporean man, who was swept away by waves while swimming off Desaru Coast in Kota Tinggi, was found dead early yesterday. Penawar Fire and Rescue station operations commander Masri Ibrahim said members of the public discovered the body of the 49-year-old at the beach at 5.30am. “The victim, who wore black shorts, was found by members of the public about 5km from where he was reported to have gone missing. The victim’s wife has also identified his body,” he said. The man and his 16-year-old son were reportedly hit by waves while they were at the water’s edge, before being swept away. However, the boy was rescued by the public and sent to the Kota Tinggi Hospital. Masri said even before the incident, a red flag had been raised at the site to warn visitors against having activities on the beach due to dangerous weather and sea conditions. – Bernama ALTERNATIVE USE ... Abandoned vehicles being used to store goods at a public parking lot on Jalan Reko in Kajang. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUN
FRIDAY | DEC 29, 2023 7 Hong Kong opposition party shuts down HONG KONG: Six lapel pins bearing the Civic Party’s founding date are all Hong Kong veteran politician Alan Leong kept when the once-prominent opposition group cleared its headquarters and shuttered its doors days before the new year. Founded in 2006, the Civic Party, nicknamed “the barristers’ party”, was made up of attorneys, academics and other professionals who wanted to promote democratisation in Hong Kong, becoming at one point the city’s second-largest opposition party in the legislative council. “Times have changed,” co-founder Leong said, speaking to AFP in a series of interviews during the party’s six-month shutdown process. Since China imposed a sweeping national security law that quelled dissent after massive pro-democracy protests rocked Hong Kong in 2019, the Civic Party has seen three members jailed, its elected politicians unseated and a former lawmaker listed as a most wanted fugitive. Under a leadership vacuum, the party decided to disband in May. In the final months of 2023, it donated its office furniture and campaign loudspeakers, and stripped bare its walls of newspaper clippings and party signage. But Leong held on to the green-and-purple pins bearing the date “19.03.06”, the party’s birthday. “What is left of the initial batch of the lapel pins would be all that we have,” he said. The lawyer cited Hong Kong’s “political reality” as well as a lack of money and morale as reasons for the party’s closure. “I have never doubted the ability of the Hong Kong people ruling Hong Kong, but there are things that are beyond our control,” he said. “There are a few of our legislators who are still behind bars now. So that’s reality. That also explains why we are winding up.” Once an electoral reform advocacy group, oCivic Party co-founder rues China’s sweeping national security law that landed its members behind bars, winding up the faction Call for action after eviction attempt in Banda Aceh BANGKOK: The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) has called on local law enforcement authorities for urgent action to ensure the protection of Rohingya in the wake of attempts to evict them from shelters in Banda Aceh, Indonesia. In a statement, UNHCR said it is deeply disturbed to see a mob storming a site sheltering vulnerable refugee families, the majority being children and women, and demanding that they be deported before forcibly taking them to a different location. “UNHCR remains deeply worried about the safety of refugees and calls on local law enforcement authorities for urgent action to ensure the protection of all desperate individuals and humanitarian staff. “The attack on refugees is not an isolated act but the result of a coordinated online campaign of misinformation, disinformation and hate speech against refugees and an attempt to malign Indonesia’s efforts to save desperate lives in distress at sea,” it said. On Wednesday, hundreds of youngsters believed to be students of higher education institutions stormed a building basement where refugees were sheltered. The mob broke a police cordon, forcibly put 137 refugees on two trucks and moved them to another location in Banda Aceh. The incident has left refugees shocked and traumatised. UNHCR is also alerting the public to be aware of the coordinated and well-choreographed online campaign on social media platforms, attacking authorities, local communities, Indonesia starts paid vaccinations effective Jan 1 JAKARTA: The DKI Jakarta Health Service will implement paid Covid-19 vaccination starting on Jan 1, 2024, and reminded people to immediately complete their vaccination at the nearest health service while it is still free, reported Antara news agency. “Starting on Jan 1, 2024, the public must pay for Covid-19 vaccination,” head of the DKI Jakarta Health Service, Ani Ruspitawati, stated yesterday. She remarked that this paid Covid-19 vaccine applies to all vaccine doses. However, the elderly and vulnerable groups will still receive free Covid-19 vaccines. Ruspitawati has not yet detailed the cost that will be charged for each vaccine dose. Her side still awaits service mechanisms and technicalities from the health ministry. “Maybe it will be disbursed to the public with normal service mechanisms just like any other paid vaccine. However, we still must wait for the ministry’s regulation,” she said. Until the end of this year, she confirmed that all Covid-19 vaccines will still be free and available at all sub-district health centres in Jakarta. The DKI Jakarta provincial government also reminds the public to complete the Covid-19 vaccination, wear masks, and maintain health to prevent virus transmission amid the New Year holiday period. In addition, the Health Ministry urged the public to continue wearing masks and practicing clean and healthy living behavior to prevent a potential spike in Covid-19 cases, especially among the elderly and unvaccinated people. Earlier, President Joko Widodo reminded the public that treatment of Covid-19 patients would no longer be covered by the government since the status has changed from pandemic to endemic. – Bernama-Antara B R I E F SOVER 40 FEARED DEAD AFTER TANKER CRASH MONROVIA: More than 40 people were feared dead when a tanker truck exploded after crashing in central Liberia, the country’s chief medical officer told local media on Wednesday. The tanker carrying gasoline crashed and tipped into a ditch along a road in Totota, about 130km from the capital Monrovia. Dr Francis Kateh told local broadcaster Super Bongese TV said it was difficult to determine the number of victims because some had been reduced to ashes but estimated that more than 40 people were killed in the incident. “We have our team going from home to home to check those that are missing,“ he told AFP. Police earlier put the death toll at 15 and said at least 30 people were injured as locals gathered at the scene. “There were lots of people that got burned,” said Prince B. Mulbah, deputy inspector general for the Liberia National Police. – AFP TRIBUTES FLOOD IN FOR EX-EU CHIEF PARIS: Tributes from across Europe poured in for Jacques Delors, a former EU Commission chief who played an instrumental role in European integration, following his death on Wednesday at 98. European Council President Charles Michel said Delors “led the transformation of the European Economic Community towards a true Union”. “A great Frenchman and a great European, he went down in history as one of the builders of our Europe,” Michel posted on social media. Current European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen said Delors had “shaped entire generations of Europeans, including mine” and was “a visionary who made our Europe stronger”. European Central Bank chief Christine Lagarde highlighted Delors’s role for the single European market and “the path he laid out towards our single currency, the euro”. Europe, she said, “has lost a true statesman”. – AFP CHINA ASKS CITIZENS TO LEAVE MYANMAR YANGON: China's embassy in Myanmar yesterday asked its citizens to leave a northern district along the countries' shared border, citing heightened security risks as ethnic minority armed groups battle the junta. Fighting has raged across Myanmar’s northern Shan state since October, when the so-called “Three Brotherhood Alliance” of ethnic minority groups launched an offensive against the military. The alliance has seized several towns and border hubs vital for trade with China in what analysts say is the biggest military challenge to the junta since it seized power in 2021. – AFP the Civic Party was formed by four lawyers who were also lawmakers – Ronny Tong, Margaret Ng, Audrey Eu and Leong. Aspiring to become a “governing party”, it recruited elites from different professions, such as civic engineer Albert Lai. “It had then been a decade since Hong Kong’s handover, but Beijing had not realised its promise of universal suffrage for the city, that was the triggering point of the party’s formation,” Lai said. Hong Kong was handed over from Britain to China in 1997, with Beijing promising a wide degree of freedoms and an “ultimate aim” of having the city’s leader and lawmakers democratically elected. This year, Beijing’s state television called the party an “anti-China destabilising organisation”. Seven Civic Party members have been prosecuted for leading pro-democracy protests, raising funds for demonstrators and joining an unofficial primary to shortlist legislative candidates, which Hong Kong’s government alleges to be a national security crime. By the end of 2021, all its members on the city’s district and legislative councils had been ousted under Beijing’s “patriots” doctrine in which anyone deemed politically disloyal is weeded out from Hong Kong public office. Rohingyas being transported from their temporary shelter following a protest for the deportation of the Rohingya refugees on Dec 27. – REUTERSPIC refugees and humanitarian workers alike, inciting hate and putting lives in danger. “UNHCR appeals to the public in Indonesia to cross-check information posted online, much of it false or twisted, with AI-generated images and hate speech being sent from bot accounts,” the statement said. The UNHCR reminded everyone that desperate refugee children, women and men seeking shelter in Indonesia are victims of persecution and conflict, and are survivors of deadly sea journeys. It said Indonesia – with its longstanding humanitarian tradition – has helped save these desperate people who would have otherwise died at the sea like hundreds of others. – Bernama
FRIDAY | DEC 29, 2023 8 Washington releases final military aid for Ukraine oDecision to continue support in hands of Republicans as Congress reconvenes on Jan 8 WASHINGTON: The US government on Wednesday announced what it said was the last remaining package of weapons available for Ukraine under existing authorisation, with Congress now needing to decide whether to keep supporting Kyiv’s battle against Russian invasion. “The year’s final package” includes air-defence and artillery munitions, the State Department said in a statement. It added that Congress, where Republicans are split on supporting Ukraine, should “act swiftly” to renew the flow. President Joe Biden has made backing Ukraine a priority and US weapons and financial assistance have been crucial in helping the proWestern country battle against a far larger attacking Russian force. However, right-wing Republicans have led a push to halt the effort, refusing to authorise new budget outlays if the Democrats do not first agree to sweeping, tough new measures against illegal migration over the US southern border. The final tranche of aid is worth up to US$250 million (RM1.15 billion) and includes “air-defence munitions, other air-defence system components, additional ammunition for high mobility artillery rocket systems, 155mm and 105mm artillery ammunition, antiarmor munitions, and over 15 million rounds of ammunition”, the State Department said. The statement underlined the US-led coalition helping Ukraine, noting that “more than 50 countries” are involved. “It is imperative that Congress act swiftly as soon as possible to advance our national security interests by helping Ukraine defend itself and secure its future,” it said. In Kyiv, Ukrainian presidential aide Andriy Yermak welcomed the aid. A week ago, White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby made clear that the upcoming drawdown of US military aid would be the last available, leaving “no more replenishment authority”. “We’re going to need Congress to act without delay,” he said. Democrats in the Senate, where they hold a narrow majority, tried to push Republicans in December for a last-minute deal, but with little progress the two parties left for the end-of-year holidays. Congress reconvenes on Jan 8. However, finding agreement on immigration – one of the most complex and longest-running headaches in US politics – is expected to be difficult in the Senate. Even then, a deal would have to be approved in the House of Representatives where Republicans – dominated by a hard-right faction – hold their own narrow majority. – AFP Kim calls for ‘accelerated’ war preparations SEOUL: North Korean leader Kim Jong Un urged his party to “accelerate” war preparations including its nuclear programme, state media said yesterday. The comments came just a week after Kim warned Pyongyang would not hesitate to launch a nuclear attack if “provoked” with nukes. Kim made the comments at the North’s ongoing year-end party meeting, where he is expected to unveil key policy decisions for 2024. Kim asked the party to “further accelerate the war preparations” across sectors, including nuclear weapons and civil defence, Pyongyang’s official Korean Central News Agency reported. He also stressed that the “military situation” on the Korean peninsula had become “extreme” due to “unprecedented” anti-North confrontations with Washington. Seoul, Tokyo and Washington have ramped up defence cooperation in the face of a recordbreaking series of weapons tests by Pyongyang this year and recently activated a system to share realtime data on North Korean missile launches. Earlier this month, a US nuclearpowered submarine arrived in the South Korean port city of Busan and Washington flew its long-range bombers in drills with Seoul and Tokyo. The North has previously described the participation of US strategic assets such as B-52 bombers in joint drills on the Korean peninsula as the “intentional nuclear war provocative moves of the US”. Pyongyang this year successfully launched a reconnaissance satellite, enshrined its status as a nuclear power in its constitution, and testfired the most advanced intercontinental ballistic missile in its arsenal. Kim earlier this week defined 2023 as a “year of great turn and great change” in which Pyongyang saw “eye-opening victories”. Last week, the United Nations atomic agency said a second reactor at North Korea’s Yongbyon nuclear facility appeared to be operational, calling it “deeply regrettable.” North Korea is likely to “deploy tactical nuclear weapons in areas near the inter-Korean border” and further advance its nuclear programme in the new year, Ahn Chan-il, a defector-turnedresearcher who runs the World Institute for North Korea Studies, told AFP. Pyongyang would make such moves to exert “great pressure” on South Korea and the US, while maintaining close ties with traditional allies Russia and China, he added. Oil spill blackens part of Venezuelan western coast PUERTO CABELLO: An oil spill is sloshing tarry ooze onto beaches in the state of Carabobo along Venezuela’s western coastline, several environmental groups said on Wednesday. The spill was first detected on Tuesday, Yohan Flores, a regional director of the Azul Ambientalistas NGO, told AFP. “A large part of the beaches of Puerto Cabello are affected,” he said, referring to the country’s largest port 210km west of the capital Caracas. State oil giant PDVSA has not addressed the spill even as NGOs such as the Caribe Sur Foundation say it originated at a waste lagoon near the El Palito refinery, one of the most important in Venezuela. A brief report from the National System for Risk Management noted a “spill of hydrocarbons from the waste lagoon” without offering more details. “A large part of the beaches of Puerto Cabello (in Carabobo state) are affected,“ said Flores, adding that marine fauna may also be affected. Teams from PDVSA, volunteers and fishermen all were seen working on cleanup. The National Organisation for Rescue and Maritime Safety of Venezuela’s Aquatic Spaces called for “environmental contingency” action. The last oil spill recorded in the area was in July 2020, when waste from the refinery also flowed into the sea. B R I E F SBLINKEN SEEKS WAY FORWARD ON MIGRATION MEXICO CITY: US Secretary of State Antony Blinken opened talks on Wednesday in Mexico in hopes of tackling surging migration, which has become a major political headache for President Joe Biden as he enters an election year. The unusual Christmas week trip by the top American diplomat was abruptly scheduled as the rival Republican Party presses Biden to crack down on migration as a condition for providing the votes in Congress for one of his key priorities – support for Ukraine. Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, who spoke to Biden by telephone yesterday, opened the closed-door meeting with small talk about the city’s notorious traffic with Blinken and the rest of the high-level US delegation. Speaking to reporters earlier, Lopez Obrador said Mexico was “helping a lot” on addressing migration. “We’re going to keep doing it and we want to reach an agreement,“ he said, adding that next year’s US elections were giving fresh impetus to the issue. – AFP THREE KILLED IN ‘COUNTER-TERRORISM’ OP TUNIS: Tunisian security forces killed on Wednesday three “terrorists” during an ongoing operation in a mountain area near the Algerian border, said the interior ministry. National guard and army forces were involved in the “counterterrorism operation” near the city of Kasserine, the ministry said, without providing further details on those killed. The forces seized explosives, weapons and munitions, it said. Tunisia has faced a rise in jihadist groups after the 2011 revolution that overthrew the dictatorship of Zine El Abidine Ben Ali. Attacks claimed by jihadists in recent years have killed dozens of soldiers, police officers and some civilians and foreign tourists. – AFP South Korean soldiers take part in an anti-terror drill amid mounting tensions on the Korean peninsula on Dec 27. – REUTERSPIC
FRIDAY | DEC 29, 2023 9 GAZA: Israeli forces pounded central Gaza by land, sea and air, and Palestinian authorities reported dozens more deaths, with the UN health agency saying thousands of people were trying to flee the fighting. Israel remains resolved to wipe out the Palestinian militant group Hamas, despite international calls for a ceasefire and easing of a worsening humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip. Israeli planes carried out three strikes in Al Nuseirat in central Gaza, killing seven people and wounding several others, medics said late on Wednesday. The UN World Health Organisation said its staff had seen tens of thousands of people fleeing heavy strikes in Khan Younis and the Middle Area on foot, on donkeys or in cars. Makeshift shelters were being built along the road, it said on Wednesday. On the diplomatic front, where international pressure on Israel has grown, French President Emmanuel Macron told Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in a call of the need to work towards a durable ceasefire with the help of regional and international partners. A Gaza health ministry statement said an Israeli airstrike killed 20 Palestinians on Wednesday near Al-Amal Hospital in Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip. There was no immediate comment from the Israeli military. In central Gaza’s Al-Maghazi district, five Palestinians were killed in one airstrike, medics said, while to the north in Gaza City, health officials said the bodies of seven Palestinians arrived at Al Shifa Hospital. Residents in the central Gaza Strip said with nightfall, Israeli tank shelling intensified east of Al-Bureij and Al-Maghazi where tanks have been trying to force their way through. Israel’s military reported three more soldiers killed in action in Gaza, bringing total military losses to 166 since ground operations began on Oct 20. The Gaza health ministry said the recorded toll in the enclave was 21,110 killed and 55,243 wounded in Israeli attacks. Nearly all of Gaza’s 2.3 million people have been driven from their homes. Many Western and Middle Eastern governments have expressed concerns about the conflict broadening, including on Israel’s northern border with Lebanon. On Wednesday, Hezbollah fired more rockets and weaponised drones than it has in any previous day, security sources said. The Israeli military said its warplanes had targeted Hezbollah military sites and other places in Lebanon, and cabinet minister Benny Gantz said the situation must change. “If the world and the Lebanese government don’t act in order to prevent the firing on Israel’s northern residents, and to distance Hezbollah from the border, the IDF will do it,” he told a press conference, referring to the Israel Defence Forces. In Washington, US President Joe Biden said US military strikes in Iraq on Monday aimed to deter Iran and Iran-backed militia groups from attacks on American personnel and bases. A drone attack by Iran-aligned militants earlier on Monday had wounded three Americans. – Reuters oIsrael remains resolved to wiping out Hamas despite calls for ceasefire and easing of worsening humanitarian crisis Israeli strike kills three in south Lebanon BEIRUT: An Israeli strike in south Lebanon killed a Hezbollah fighter, the group said Wednesday, as state media reported two of his relatives were also killed and the Iran-backed movement launched rockets in retaliation. The border between Lebanon and Israel has seen escalating exchanges of fire, mainly between the Israeli army and Hamas ally Hezbollah, since the Israel-Hamas war began on Oct 7, raising fears of a broader conflagration. “Enemy warplanes raided, before midnight, a house in the centre of the town of Bint Jbeil” about 2km from the border, killing a man, his brother and his wife, Lebanon’s National News Agency (NNA) said. The NNA identified the dead as Ali Bazzi, his brother Ibrahim and his wife Shourouk Hammoud, and said another family member was wounded. Hezbollah later announced that Ali Bazzi was one of its fighters. A relative said Ibrahim Bazzi was an Australian citizen who had flown in for a visit about a week earlier. The Australian government said two Australian citizens had been killed in the airstrike, without identifying them by name. Australia’s attorney-general Mark Dreyfus urged Australians to leave Lebanon while commercial flights were still operating. Hezbollah later on Wednesday said it launched a barrage of 30 Katyusha rockets towards Kiryat Shmona in northern Israel “in response to the enemy’s repeated crimes and its targeting of civilian houses in Bint Jbeil”. Since the cross-border hostilities began, more than 150 people have been killed on the Lebanese side, most of them Hezbollah combatants but also more than 20 civilians, three of them journalists, according to an AFP tally. On the Israeli side, at least four civilians and nine soldiers have been killed, according to figures from the military. Exchanges of fire have been largely confined to the border area, although Israel has conducted limited strikes deeper into Lebanese territory. Hezbollah said on Wednesday it carried out a series of other attacks on Israeli troops and positions, including one on the contested Shebaa Farms involving “suicide drones”, missiles and artillery. The Israeli military said in a statement that “a number of launches were identified crossing from Lebanon toward various areas in northern Israel”, adding that the army struck the sources of fire and “additional areas in Lebanon”. An aerial view of destroyed buildings in Beit Lahia following Israeli bombardment. – AFPPIC B R I E F S‘NETANYAHU NO DIFFERENT FROM HITLER’ ANKARA: Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said on Wednesday that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was no different from Adolf Hitler and likened Israel’s attacks on Gaza to the treatment of Jewish people by the Nazis. Nato member Turkey, which supports a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, has criticised Israel’s air and ground assault on Gaza, called it a “terror state” and said its leaders must be tried in international courts. Sharpening his rhetoric, Erdogan said Turkiye would welcome academics and scientists facing persecution for their views on the conflict in Gaza, adding Western countries supporting Israel were complicit in what he called war crimes. “They used to speak ill of Hitler. What difference do you have from Hitler? They are going to make us miss Hitler. Is what this Netanyahu is doing any less than what Hitler did? It is not,” Erdogan said. – Reuters MOURNERS CHANT ‘DEATH TO ISRAEL’ AT FUNERAL NAJAF: Mourners chanted “Death to America, Death to Israel” during the funeral service on Wednesday for a senior adviser in Iran’s Revolutionary Guards who was killed in an air strike in Syria. Three security sources and Iranian state media said an Israeli air strike outside Damascus on Monday killed Sayyed Razi Mousavi. The sources said he was responsible for coordinating the military alliance between Syria and Iran. The coffin of Mousavi was passed over the heads of members of the Iraq’s Popular Mobilisation Forces, a heavily armed state paramilitary grouping that contains dozens of Iranbacked factions, during the funeral in Iraq’s holy city of Najaf. Following the funeral at Iraq’s most revered Shi’ite Muslim shrine, his coffin will be flown to Iran for burial. The powerful Revolutionary Guards, Iran’s dominant military force, with its own army, navy, air force and intelligence wing, has said Israel will suffer for killing Mousavi. – Reuters Dozens arrested in pro-Palestinian protests LOS ANGELES: Pro-Palestinian protesters blocked morning traffic on Wednesday around Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) – two of the nation’s busiest – in coast-to-coast demonstrations that ended with dozens of arrests. Thirty-six people were taken into custody at LAX, where demonstrators became unruly, the Los Angeles Police Department said. “Protesters threw a police officer to the ground, used construction debris, road signs, tree branches and blocks of concrete to obstruct” a road leading into the airport “while attacking uninvolved passersby in their vehicles”, police said in a statement. Airport police said the entrance to the complex was reopened within about 45 minutes with “no impacts to fights,“ the Los Angeles City News Service reported. Across the country, the Port Authority Police Department of New York said 26 people were arrested for disorderly conduct and impeding vehicular traffic during a protest along the Van Wyck Expressway inside JFK Airport in Queens. During the disruption, the Port Authority dispatched two airport buses offering rides to travelers caught in the resulting traffic backup to help them reach the airport safely, the agency said. The roadway was reopened after about 20 minutes, police said. Local news coverage of both protests showed demonstrators carrying banners with messages such as “free Palestine” and “divest from genocide”, in opposition to Israeli military action in the Gaza Strip over the past 11 weeks. The protests came as the UN health agency reported thousands of people trying to flee fighting that has raged in the coastal Palestinian enclave since Oct 7. – Reuters Gaza attacks take heavy toll
10 FRIDAY | DEC 29, 2023 @thesundaily FOLLOW ON Malaysian Paper INSTAGRAM Or download app on the AppStore or Google Play ENJOY A SEAMLESS READING EXPERIENCE. Read our iPaper at https://www.thesun.my/ Link between Covid and stroke among the young THE Covid-19 pandemic has fundamentally altered the physiological landscape of individuals around the globe. Beyond the oft-quoted and widely recognised respiratory impact, the virus has also demonstrated its ability to traverse various bodily functions, leaving a trail of physiological changes in its wake. From the intricate dynamics of the immune response to cardiovascular issues, Covid has brought about unprecedented impacts on human health in various ways. But what are the correlations, if any, between Covid and an increase in stroke incidents, especially among the young? In light of the increasing number of Covid cases in Malaysia, let us investigate the links. Traditionally, when we speak about strokes, it tends to be an “elderly persons” disease, a health concern prevalent among those aged 50 and above. However, over the past three years since the first outbreak of Covid-19, caused by the novel coronavirus SARSCoV-2, an intriguing and worrying connection has emerged between the virus and incidents of stroke in younger individuals. Covid is associated with a higher risk of stroke, a majority of them being ischemic strokes (caused by a blockage in an artery that supplies blood to the brain). A study by a highly respected database from the National Institutes of Health, PubMed Central, suggested a connection between the high prevalence of vascular risk factors and concurrent elevation of proinflammatory and procoagulation biomarkers in this. It also indicated that the virus that causes Covid-19 infects the cells that line the inside of blood vessels, and these infected cells release several proinflammatory factors that attract other immune cells to the affected area. This leads to damage to the lining cells, activating platelets and other factors involved in clotting. This chain of events eventually increases the risk of a blood clot that can potentially travel up to the brain and cause a stroke. In essence, hypercoagulability and inflammatory response cause vascular it remains a risk, especially for individuals with pre-existing health conditions that are known to boost the risk of stroke. Young individuals who have preexisting health conditions such as hypertension, diabetes or obesity face an elevated risk of experiencing severe complications from Covid-19, including the potential for strokes. Effectively managing these underlying health conditions emerges as a critical measure in preventing adverse outcomes and improving the overall prognosis for those affected by the virus. Prioritising the control and treatment of these existing health issues supports overall well-being and plays a pivotal role in mitigating the severity of Covid-19-related complications. Maintaining vigilance and monitoring for symptoms associated with stroke, such as sudden weakness or numbness, difficulty speaking or severe headache, is crucial for early detection and intervention. Seeking prompt medical attention can significantly improve outcomes in case of a stroke. While the correlation between incidents of stroke, Covid-19 and how it affects younger individuals remains a subject of ongoing research and study, it is crucial to recognise the potential risks and take appropriate and proactive measures. Additionally, staying informed through reputable health sources, taking care of one’s diet, and lifestyle habits and consulting with medical professionals will lower the risk of stroke. The writer is a consultant neurologist at Aurelius Hospital in Nilai. Comments: [email protected] “Data and evidence gathered point to a heightened risk of stroke brought about by Covid-19, regardless of age. Even though it remains an uncommon occurrence, it remains a risk. The Covid-19 pandemic has fundamentally altered the physiological landscape of individuals around the globe. – REUTERSPIC COMMENT by Dr Joyce Pauline Joseph complications, increasing the risk of strokes, regardless of age. Findings from another large-scale study by the British Medical Journal, wholly owned by the British Medical Association, suggested that Covid-19 is a risk factor for deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism and bleeding. The risk of developing blood clots in the lungs and legs is significantly elevated for up to six months upon contraction of Covid-19. From data collected from the US Department of Veteran Affairs, which consisted of 153,760 individuals who contracted Covid-19, evidence suggested that after the initial 30 days of infection, individuals afflicted with Covid displayed heightened susceptibilities and endured a yearlong burden of newly emerging cardiovascular conditions. These encompassed a spectrum of disorders, ranging from cerebrovascular issues and dysrhythmias to inflammatory heart disease, ischemic heart disease, heart failure, thromboembolic disease and assorted cardiac disorders. Strikingly, these risks manifested consistently across various demographic factors, such as age, race and gender, as well as other established cardiovascular risk factors such as obesity, hypertension, diabetes, chronic kidney disease and hyperlipidemia. Notably, even those without any pre-existing cardiovascular conditions before exposure to Covid-19 exhibited these risks, suggesting a propensity for these complications to manifest in individuals traditionally considered at low risk for cardiovascular diseases. In summary, data and evidence gathered do point to a heightened risk of stroke brought about by Covid-19, regardless of age. Even though it remains an uncommon occurrence,
11 FRIDAY | DEC 29, 2023 Housing done, time for water AT a dialogue session between Prime Minister (PM) Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and senior media practitioners last Saturday, I was ready to address the omission of two keywords from the names of ministries when he formed the Madani Cabinet in November last year. And it happened again when the prime minister reshuffled his Cabinet on Dec 12. To ensure I did not miss certain points for argument’s sake, I jotted in my reporter’s notebook the two important words that always featured in the portfolios of previous Cabinets but were omitted in Anwar’s Cabinet: water and housing. In the original unity government Cabinet, water fell under Natural Resources while housing came under Local Government Development. However, due to the multitude of questions and time constraints, I did not get a chance to suggest to the PM – despite raising my hand several times – to reinstate “water and housing” in the respective ministries’ names. The point I had intended to make was that without water and housing specifically identified in the Cabinet portfolios, these two vital components in our daily lives may not get the priority they deserve. They run the risk of being sidelined in the order of priority. However, here is the good news – the Local Government Development Ministry announced on Tuesday that it is now known as the Housing and Local Government Ministry. It said the name change was decided during the Cabinet meeting on Dec 13, adding that providing affordable housing remains the ministry’s main thrust. The ministry’s target is to construct 500,000 housing units nationwide, especially for the B40 and M40 g r o u p s through the ongoing 12th Malaysia Plan. Now with housing back on the frontline, what about water – life’s most vital resource? It was not publicly stated in the Cabinet reshuffle announcement whether water now remains with the Natural Resources and Sustainability or under the Energy Transition and Public Utility Ministry. Firstly, I would regard it as an oversight to have dropped these two nomenclatures that have been part and parcel of our everyday existence. The earlier “water” returns as part of the ministry’s name, the better as water is life. Readers who have been following this column, now in its 13th year, can vouch that water is a pet issue that I have written about against the backdrop that is something Malaysia and Malaysians have taken not only for granted but perhaps, too much for granted. A myriad of initiatives are offered in either the federal or state budget presentations annually but rarely, if at all, do we read or hear about specific allocations, for example, an increase in water supply capacity to meet the rapidly growing population. The water supply situation is a critical issue in the Klang Valley, which encompasses Kuala Lumpur and Selangor, Malaysia’s most populated and No. 1 economic state. Selangor has the highest population, simply because Malaysians from the other 12 states are flocking here, given its vast business and job opportunities. It is also the fastest-growing state industrially. Look at the mushrooming of highrise condominium blocks, soaring 50 storeys skyward over the past 10 to 15 years in an overbuilt city such as Kuala Lumpur and neighbouring Selangor, not to mention Putrajaya. This seemingly uncontrolled property development is the main reason why Selangor’s water reserve margin is running precariously low, obviously the lowest in the country. For the three years from 2018, Selangor’s water reserve margin was zero. However, it has been boosted to 17.4% in 2021 and 15.25% last year. With global issues such as climate change and some two-thirds of countries globally reportedly facing water shortage, the last thing we want to see happening is water politics. Selangor, under a previous state government, even came up with the world’s first free water policy for household consumption. It was meant to be a populist move but which, in effect, costs the state government billions in payment to the privatised water concessionaires. It is a bad policy, considering water is a precious resource, and when given free can lead to a tremendous amount of wastage, aggravating the problem of nonrevenue water. No one minds paying for such a vital resource because given the low water tariffs prevailing in the country, water is the cheapest utility bill compared with others. The average household only pays about RM15 to RM30 for their water monthly, much lower than what parents spend to top up their children’s mobile phones. In this regard, I applaud the move by the Penang government to seek Federal government approval to raise water tariffs for households in the state. Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said on Christmas Day that the current tariff for domestic consumers had not been increased since 2015 and was heavily subsidised. The Penang Water Supply Corporation spends more than RM1 to treat every 1,000 litres of water but only charges households 30 sen. Without any tariff increase, the state government spends RM100 million annually on water. The bottom line is that no effort should be spared to prevent a water crisis because such a crisis, if it happens, is the mother of all crises. Comments: [email protected] “With housing back on the frontline, water needs to get the priority it deserves or risks being sidelined, as it is part and parcel of our everyday existence. The water supply situation is a critical issue in the Klang Valley, which encompasses Kuala Lumpur and Selangor. – REUTERSPIC Empathy and forthrightness vital for navigating family challenges Q: My husband recently left me and moved in with another woman. My children are confused because their dad has been lying to them about where he is living and the reasons for our separation. What should I tell them? Focus on the Family Malaysia: We are sorry to hear about your situation. Even though we can understand your desire to protect your children’s innocence, it is important to be honest with them about what is going on. Be as forthright as you can while taking their age and maturity into account. We suggest you explain to your children, using age-appropriate language, that you and their father have not been getting along, and he has made some bad choices that are hurting the family. Resist the temptation to criticise your spouse because you do not want to alienate him further from the children. If they ask about the other woman, give them a straightforward answer and explain that it makes you sad that their father has moved in with her. Most importantly, reassure your children of your love, and that it is not their fault that this has happened. Emphasise that you understand how painful this situation is for them. Encourage them to be open about their sadness and anger but do not allow them to engage in aggressive or destructive behaviour. Writing and journalling are good emotional outlets for older children. Younger children sometimes find it helpful to express their feelings by drawing pictures. Focus on the Family Malaysia is here to help people in your situation, so we invite you to contact our counsellors for more insights. Q: One of my parenting struggles is that I tend to let misbehaviour and disobedience go unchallenged. I know this does not help my children in the long run. How can I change? Focus on the Family Malaysia: There are four basic parenting styles: authoritarian, authoritative, permissive and neglectful. Studies consistently show that authoritative parenting is the most effective and beneficial style for children. Researchers have discovered that authoritative parenting can lead to fewer behavioural, mental, social and emotional issues in children. It can also yield academic and relational benefits. Authoritative parenting involves high levels of warmth, responsiveness and sensitivity accompanied by limits and expectations. A practical starting point and template can be found in the Seven Traits of Effective Parenting: adaptability, respect, intentionality, steadfast love, boundaries, forgiveness and gratitude. To become a more authoritative parent, consider focusing on these three areas: 1. Yourself: Do you need to create more boundaries for yourself and your children? Take inventory of what you are doing well and where you may need improvement. Give your list to someone you trust who can weigh in with their observations while encouraging you as you try to make improvements. 2. Your child/children: What do your children need to learn emotionally, mentally and socially? Get involved in what interests them. Your children want a relationship with you and need your wise and intentional direction. Work on modelling wisdom and true humility, along with respect, love and gratitude. 3. Your family: Ultimately, we all carve out time for the things that are most important to us – so make your family a priority. Take time to connect and develop the kind of memories you want for your family. Strengthen relationships through grace and forgiveness. Visit our website to read more about the Seven Traits of Effective Parenting. The article was contributed by Focus on the Family Malaysia, a non-profit organisation dedicated to supporting and strengthening the family unit. It provides a myriad of programmes and resources, including professional counselling services, to the community. For more information, visit family.org.my. Comments: [email protected] UNDER ONE ROOF
COMMUNITY COMMUNITY 12 FRIDAY | DEC 29, 2023 From despair to renewed faith KUALA LUMPUR: “Please kill me. I just want to die … I can’t take the pain anymore,” said Devika Rajamanickam, now 42, after her first chemotherapy session in 2019. Her husband, Ramesh Suparammanayam, 43, was distraught. Here was a woman he loved more than anything else in the world, but she was going through so much suffering and there was little he could do to ease her pain. A high-profile couple, Devika is the country head of corporate sustainability at a major financial institution, while Ramesh is the sales director at a software company. The couple, who live in USJ, Subang Jaya, have been married since 2005 and are blessed with two sons, Yuhaan, 16, and Nihaan, eight. Devika’s ordeal started in 2011 when she felt some discomfort during her monthly periods. She consulted her gynaecologist, only to be told that she had a 2cm ovarian cyst. “It grew bigger each time I had my period, and subsided when it was over. I lived with it for eight years as my gynaecologist said there was nothing to worry about.” In 2014, even though the cyst caused her some discomfort while she was pregnant with her second son, Devika’s gynaecologist reassured her that it did not pose a problem. But this was not entirely true. When Nihaan turned five, Devika suffered extreme pain in her lower abdomen and was rushed to the hospital. There, it was discovered that she had ovarian cancer. This was the beginning of her nightmare. “I couldn’t believe this was happening to us. Devika has always been a very strong, well-balanced and happy person. Career-minded, she has always striven to give her best at work, while balancing her family commitments too. “So, to find her in extreme pain, weak, and vulnerable was something our family was unprepared for. And for her to say ‘please kill me’ was just too much to bear,” said Ramesh. Devika and Ramesh have gone through the most trying of times but have always found strength in each other. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN oWoman’s battle with Big C takes her down spiritual path after harrowing experiences █ BYJOSHUA PURUSHOTMAN [email protected] Eye-opening book by cancer survivor CANCER SURVIVOR Devika Rajamanickam has detailed her journey with the disease in her book, ABC – A Battle of Cancer. Part of the proceeds will be donated to the National Cancer Society of Malaysia. In her book, there are times when Devika is candid. On other occasions, one can feel the pain and seriousness with which she speaks. In her words, Devika said she lived the life of her dreams – a loving husband, two amazing children, and a pretty awesome, well-paying job. “Then one day you wake up to a living nightmare – an insidious parasite gnawing deep inside you, blind to reason and hungry to invade. “This sinister presence becomes your new reality, and darkness becomes you.” Her vibrant life, once in full swing, came to an abrupt halt in 2019, hurling her into the blackness. She grappled with life-altering decisions, saw her body change, which made her hate the mirror, and confronted the brutal reality of chemotherapy. Devika speaks of her fears upon learning she had ovarian cancer and the strength she derived from her husband, children and parents to carry on with her fight. She also speaks of the extreme pain she encountered with ovarian cancer and advises readers to always get a second opinion and do something about it if one is ill. Do not ignore your medical problem as she did for eight years with a cyst. In a lighter tone, she says her late mother would have killed her for telling her story. “Out of love, she would’ve wanted me to ‘safeguard my dignity’, insisting that my health journey is a secret to keep. “But there is another outcome to consider; the chance to offer hope and help to others.” The book is a recommended read for anyone dealing with lifechanging issues and those who wish to learn what it takes to be a cancer survivor. Priced at US$10 (RM46.50), ABC – A Battle of Cancer can be purchased via an online bookstore using the following links: E-sentral e-sentral.com/search/Devika%20 rajamanickam?fbclid=IwAR0CkQQUG q j N m Z B K g c f - nIq8BEbQpEIPfbofy50eya4d1H9fPavq 5unTsAE Amazon amazon.com/dp/B0CPWPJWV9 Barnes and Noble barnesandnoble.com/w/abc-a-battleo f - c a n c e r - d e v i k a - rajamanickam/1144428370;jsessionid =A71111C907DB83F114EA797F848F 3 B 2 C . p r o d n y _ s t o r e 0 1 - atgap05?ean=2940179072010 To purchase a hardcopy, email Devika at [email protected]. – By Joshua Purushotman A recommended read for anyone dealing with life-changing issues and those who wish to learn what it takes to be a cancer surivor. Ultrasound scans showed that the cyst had grown to 9cm and was twisting her left ovary, which was why she suffered sharp pains in her lower abdomen. Devika had emergency surgery to remove the cyst and an ovary which was damaged. The sample was sent for a biopsy, and two weeks later, it was confirmed that she had stage one ovarian cancer. “Thank God, it was detected early. But the surgical oncologist said I had to undergo a ‘hysterectomy’ to remove my remaining reproductive organs as well. “While we were not planning to have another child, what the oncologist said meant I could never conceive again even if Ramesh and I wanted one.” The surgical oncologist’s words also meant Devika would spend the rest of her life experiencing “surgically induced menopause” with hormonal changes, poor bone density, hot flushes that made sleeping difficult, and other overwhelming symptoms. “I was only 38 years old when I had the hysterectomy and menopause. The surgical oncologist said apart from the negative symptoms I would experience, having the hysterectomy would help prolong my life. “I asked God why. Why me? Ramesh and I have so many plans and dreams for our lives. We want to see our children grow, enjoy each other’s company and travel to places we have never been to.” Her hysterectomy was done within 10 days of her first ovarian surgery. She was then referred to a medical oncologist who started her on a double dose of drugs and six cycles of chemotherapy, which she has since completed. “My first chemotherapy session as an outpatient was really bad. I couldn’t eat, constantly vomited and was in a lot of pain. It was decided that I should be readmitted to the hospital and given lots of painkillers. “So, after every chemotherapy session, which I had at three-week intervals, I had to be warded as I was very weak. Before long, my hair started to fall out and I decided to shave it bald.” The steroids Devika was given to suppress the side effects of chemotherapy made her feel bloated and she put on a lot of weight. Somehow, she completed all six chemotherapy cycles in three months. Devika also tried Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) which doctors usually recommend for those below 45 years. HRT is supposed to help reduce her hot flushes. But then, she discovered it has side effects, including the possibility of contracting breast cancer, and decided to stop it. Throughout her chemotherapy sessions, Ramesh, her late mother, Rajeswary Krishnasamy, 68, and now widowed father, Rajamanickam Packirisamy, 74, were always by her side. “That’s what family is for … to support each other in sickness and in health, right? “There is nothing I wouldn’t do for Devika. We have been married for 18 years, and she has always been there for me too,” Ramesh said. Meanwhile, her two sons noticed that their mother was not her normal self and wondered why Amma was losing her hair and finally shaved it bald. But like all children, they were wrapped up in school, studies and extracurricular activities. “Their lives went on as usual, thank God for that. Ramesh, their grandparents and aunts were always there for them as well,” Devika said. Food was another major problem. For a week after each chemotherapy session, Devika had a “metal” taste in her mouth. She only had a five to 10-minute window to eat before the metal taste returned. Besides, she could only eat Chinese fried rice with chilli padi or dried chilli yee-mee as she couldn’t taste anything else. Even her tongue had black spots on it and her fingernails turned black too. Throughout their journey with cancer, one thing the couple stressed was the importance of medical coverage. “Cancer treatment is very expensive. While Devika’s employer provided excellent medical coverage, it is critical to have private insurance too as a backup,” Ramesh said. For three years after her hysterectomy, Devika underwent an annual Positron Emission Tomography scan as a preventive measure to detect the presence of any tumour in her body. She is now under surveillance. So, what is life like after the Big C? “I am very proud of my employer. My company and colleagues have supported me throughout my journey with cancer. While I still take my job very seriously, I have also renewed my faith in God. “I have become more spiritual. I take my private life less seriously and prefer more stress-free activities. Above all, I value my husband and family even more and will never give them up for anything.” Devika has written a book, ABC – A Battle of Cancer and has committed to donate part of the proceeds to the National Cancer Society of Malaysia. Please see sidebar for story.
Grains of rains of glory A global exploration of rice-centric delights - P16 & 17 FRIDAY | DEC 29, 2023 SCAN ME WEEKLY FOCUS MONDAY Discover cuttingedge world of Gaming and Tech TUESDAY Ultimate guide to Travel and Leisure WEDNESDAY Latest in Fashion and Beauty sense THURSDAY Inside the world of Social Media Influencers FRIDAY Culinary delights and Beverage trends Editorial T: 03-7784 6688 F: 03-7785 2624/5 E: [email protected] Advertising T: 03-7784 8888 F: 03-7784 4424 E: [email protected] p 14 Pet-friendly New Year’s Eve to celebrate with your furbabies p 15 Find out what your last 2023 star has in store for you
LYFE LYFE FRIDAY | DEC 29, 2023 14 THE New Year is just around the corner, and as we bid farewell to the old and welcome the new, there’s no reason our furry friends shouldn’t be a part of the celebration. Ring in the New Year with your pets by following these pet-friendly suggestions for a memorable and safe celebration. Cosy movie night in Transform your living room into a pet-friendly movie theater. Pick petfriendly movies and create a cosy space with blankets and pillows for both you and your pet. Snuggle up together and enjoy a quiet night away from the loud fireworks. Gourmet pet feast Prepare a special New Year’s Eve dinner for your pet. Make sure to use pet-safe ingredients, and perhaps even try your hand at baking homemade pet treats. Celebrate the bond you share by having a delightful meal together. Pet-friendly party treats If you are hosting a New Year’s Eve party, make sure to include petfriendly treats for your furry guests. Prepare snacks that are safe for pets to enjoy, like bite-sized bits of plain chicken or dog-friendly biscuits. Themed pet photoshoot Capture the moment with a themed New Year’s Eve photoshoot for your pet. Dress them up in adorable pet-friendly outfits or accessories that match the festive theme. Documenting these moments will give you plenty of cherished memories for years to come. Calming activities Many pets get anxious during fireworks. Create a calming environment with activities that help soothe your pet’s nerves. Play soft music, use calming pheromone diffusers, or consider trying a pet anxiety wrap to provide comfort. Pet-friendly countdown Who says countdowns are just for humans? Celebrate the stroke of midnight with your pet by counting down together. You can even have a small, pet-safe noisemaker to add a touch of celebration. Interactive playtime Engage your pet in interactive playtime to keep them distracted from the noise and fireworks outside. Whether it’s a game of fetch or trying out a new toy, spending quality time with your pet is a great way to usher in the New Year. Safe haven setup Create a safe haven for your pet to retreat to if they become overwhelmed by the festivities. Set up a quiet, comfortable space with familiar toys and bedding where your pet can feel secure. Virtual celebrations If your pet isn’t a fan of crowds or noise, consider participating in virtual celebrations. Many petfriendly apps and websites offer interactive games or live-streamed events designed specifically for pets. Set New Year’s resolutions together Reflect on the past year and set New Year’s resolutions for both you and your pet. Whether it’s committing to daily walks, trying out new activities, or simply spending more quality time together, sharing resolutions can strengthen your bond. Pet-friendly mocktails While you sip on your favourite beverages, craft pet-friendly mocktails for your furry friend. Create a refreshing concoction using pet-safe ingredients like diluted chicken or beef broth. DIY pet confetti poppers Make DIY pet-friendly confetti poppers using pet-safe materials. It’s a fun way to add a touch of celebration without exposing your pet to harmful substances. Keep it light and entertaining to avoid overwhelming your furry friend. Reflective walk under the stars Take a quiet, reflective walk with your pet under the stars. Enjoy the peaceful moments together as you welcome the New Year. Ensure your pet is safely leashed, and use reflective gear for visibility. Pet spa night Turn New Year’s Eve into a spa night Paw-sitively aw-sitively perfect New erfect New Year’s Eve ear’s Eve oGuide to pet-friendly celebrations █ BYTHASHINE SELVAKUMARAN Including pets in New Year celebrations can involve creating pet-friendly traditions. (Left) For a memorable start to the year, pet owners could capture the moment by taking photos or videos of their furry friends joining the celebration. (Top) It is important to consider the well-being of pets by minimising loud noises and providing a safe and comfortable environment. Celebrating the New Year with pets can be a joyous experience, as their presence add warmth and companionship to the festivities. for your pet. Pamper them with a gentle brush, a relaxing massage, and a soothing bath using pet-friendly products. This can be a calming prelude to the evening’s festivities. Emergency preparedness Prepare for the unexpected. Make sure your pet’s identification tags are up-to-date and they are microchipped. Familiarise yourself with the location of the nearest emergency veterinary clinic, just in case. Make sure it will be open! This New Year’s Eve, make it a point to include your pets in the celebration. With a little planning and consideration, you can ensure that your furry friends have a safe and enjoyable start to the year. After all, what better way to embark on a new beginning than with those who fill our lives with unconditional love and joy?
LYFE LYFE FRIDAY | DEC 29, 2023 15 Keeping together is important to otters. – PICS BY PEXEL 1. A snail can sleep for up to three years Snails can hibernate for an astonishing three years. 2. Frogs can be hypnotised It is possible to hypnotise a frog by placing it on its back and gently stroking its stomach. 3. Ice in Antarctic glaciers contains penguins’ urine Penguin urine contributes to almost 3% of the ice in the Antarctic glaciers. 4. Bats turn left leaving cave Bats consistently make left turns when exiting a cave. 5. Orangutans often fracture bones falling out of trees Approximately half of orangutans have suffered bone fractures from frequent tree falls. 6. Christmas lights invented by Edison Thomas Edison, the light bulb inventor, also invented Christmas lights along with his partner and friend, Edward H Johnson. 7. Hand holding otters Otters hold hands while sleeping to stay connected and avoid drifting apart. 8. Jingle Bells in space Jingle Bells holds a Guinness World Record for being the firstever song played in outer space. 9. There are many kinds of Christmas trees Over 630 varieties of Christmas trees are available, offering diverse options for that special holiday decoration. 10. Most expensive Christmas card ever The first-ever Christmas card designed by Sir Henry Cole fetched US$6846 at an auction. 11. A Christmas Carol took only six weeks Charles Dickens penned the timeless classic, A Christmas Carol, in a mere six weeks. 12. Hanging stockings started by accident Legend has it that hanging stockings began when St Nick left gold in the stockings of a poor man’s daughters who couldn’t afford dowries, sparking the tradition. 13. Christmas decorating sends nearly 15,000 people to the ER Around 14,700 people visit emergency rooms during the holidays, averaging 240 injuries per day, mainly from falls, lacerations and back strains, states the Consumer Product Safety Commission. 14. Heartbreak Christmas According to data gathered from Facebook, two weeks before Christmas is one of the two most popular times for couples to break up; one is likely to avoid buying presents. The other is to avoid making the holiday season miserable by having to spend time with each oher. 15. Chewbacca had to be protected from bear hunters Filming in the Redwood forests for Return of the Jedi, actor Peter Mayhew, as Chewbacca, needed protection from hunters who mistook him for a bear. Bodyguards also shielded him from bigfoot hunters, which Mayhew confirmed on Reddit. SCORPIO Oct 23-Nov 21 With Venus in Scorpio, embrace self-love this weekend. Avoid controlling the uncontrollable; prioritise self-care and independence. Be open to the allure of a unique person and consider selfdirected learning for a boost in knowledge or skills. Take the time for a rest to confront new challenges in the coming new year. SAGITTARIUS Nov 22-Dec 21 Plan ahead by p r i o r i t i s i n g necessities and reflecting on the y e a r ’ s achievements. With Mercury retrograding in your sign until January 13, reconsider and reconnect for success in the coming year. Taking stock is a must to keep things in perspective, alowing you to prioritise the important things in life. CAPRICORN Dec 22-Jan 19 As the sun reaches its lowest point, C a p r i c o r n ’ s hardworking and resilient nature shines. Foster strong connections through open communication, sharing food, and welcoming loved ones into your gracious manner. Today, the sun significantly merges with Mercury, the planet of communication in your sign. AQUARIUS Jan 20-Feb 18 Embrace your mystic connection to your greater self. However, the planet of communication retrogrades into your social zone, indicating unfinished business in a group or friendship. Keep up connections, especially with optimistic, can-do types who support your dreams. Reciprocate this support and find ypurself reinvigorated. PISCES Feb 19-March 20 Create your festival of light with colours and music, prioritising social events. Take on responsibility in a group or start your own. Join colleagues to extend professional connections. With Mercury retrograding into your career zone, revisit missed threads positively. Expanding your social circle at this time will lead to surprising results, not least as to type of new friends. ARIES March 20-April 19 ‘Tis the season to elevate your p r o f e s s i o n a l standing. Strike a balance and seek guidance from superiors or mentors. Consider taking on leadership roles, as this month’s dynamic tension can propel you towards career advancement and vocational goals. This is a good time to make positive strides in your career. Important decisions beckon in this area. GEMINI May 21-June 20 During your ruling planet’s retrograde in your relationship sphere, seek allies for your adventurous mind and be open to messengers from your past. Revitalise communication in relationships by refining both verbal and non-verbal skills to enhance your natural talents. Be mindful of strangers bearing gifts at this time. Find out true intentions before accepting. TAURUS April 20-May 20 This weekend, b r o a d e n discussions for a fresh outlook on familiar topics. Share valuable insights through teaching, showcasing your wisdom. Embrace reflecting, reviewing, revising, and course-correcting. Reevaluate with positivity, adopting an optimistic, growth-oriented mindset when needed. CANCER June 21-July 22 E m b r a c e t r a d i t i o n a l celebrations with family and friends, b a l a n c i n g relationships and personal space. Focus positively on long-term relationship goals and anticipate the possibility of a new, older mentor, partner, or collaborator entering your life. A fruitful partnership awaits those who make the requisite efforts. LEO July 23-Aug 22 This weekend, focus on work and wellness for improved health and happiness. Revisit activities you love and integrate them into your work. Surround yourself with those who share your zest for life. Say ‘yes’ to adventures that boost vitality and a positive mindset. VIRGO Aug 23-Sept 22 Maximise long indoor evenings by revisiting a hobby or exploring a love interest. For couples, plan extra date nights to strengthen your bond and reinforce commitment. Utilise this time for meaningful conversations and create a balanced work-and-pleasure schedule. Rejuvenating your senses for the new year must be a priority in order for positive beginnings. LIBRA Sept 23-Oct 22 Expect clarity on an issue or a bright idea this weekend. Note insights or solutions from someone close. Mercury’s retrograde in local relationships hints that a neighbour or contact may offer valuable information, an opportunity, or a positive perspective. Accept invitations to new social groups for potential opportunities for personal growth as well as career. 15 random facts andom facts you never knew you never knew Christmas lights were invented by Edison. Your weekly horoscope Christmas stockings tradition.
LYFE LYFE 16 FRIDAY | DEC 29, 2023 qumasStirof vegetasauce, this importance of tedelivering a delicious umami notes. Rice pudding Sweet comfort worldA classic dessert worldwide, rice puddcomforting treat mademilk with sugar and aWhether adorned wor a drizzle of hoembodies the sweet grain, offering a glculinary indulgence. Onigirazu Innovative convenienA modern twist on onigiri, onigirazu is awith grilled chickenvariety of sauces. Wrapped in nori offers a convenient aenjoy the goodnessrepresenting the innJapanese culinary evoIdli Healthy breakfast traHailing from southsteamed ricMiddle E a s t , d o l m a f e a t u r e s grape leaves stuffed with a flavorful mixture of rice, pine nuts and a variety of aromatic herbs. The cooking process transforms the rice into a tender and savoury delight, creating a dish that is both elegant and refreshing, symbolising the rich culinary heritage of the Middle East. Risotto Slow-cooked indulgence Hailing from the culinary heart of Italy, risotto is a creamy and extremely indulgent dish crafted by slow-cooking arborio rice with broth. The dish’s versatility allows for the incorporation of v a r i o u s ingredients, such as m u s h r o o m s , seafood or seasonal vegetables, creating a rich and satisfying dining experience that Congee Versatile comfort A comforting dish deeply rooted in Chinese cuisine, congee is a rice porridge that serves as a versatile canvas for diverse toppings. W h e t h e r adorned with p i c k l e d v e g e t a b l e s , century eggs or savoury meats, congee offers a customisable and nourishing start to the day, embodying the comfort and adaptability found in Chinese culinary traditions. Dolma Savoury elegance Originating from the RICE, a dietary foundation across diverse cultures, transcends its conventional role as a side dish, elevating it to the forefront of gastronomic creativity. This humble grain, with origins dating back thousands of years, has become the central figure in various cultures resulting in countless culinary masterpieces. Join us as we embark on a delectable journey exploring rice-based dishes, each a testament to the rich tapestry of global cuisine. Sushi Origins and artistry Originating in Japan, sushi is a culinary masterpiece that marries vinegared rice with an assortment of fresh seafood, vegetables and occasionally tropical fruits. The meticulous artistry and precision in its creation and presentation make sushi a globally recognised and revered dish, symbolising the perfection found in Japanese culinary traditions. Paella Vibrancy and tradition Hailing from the diverse regions of Spain, Sushi ... world famous Japanese delicacy. - PEXELS █ BYTHASHINE SELVAKUMARAN Fragrant Biryani from South Asia. – FREEPIK Congee is Chinese comfort food in a bowl. – FREEPIK Ric Idli ... steamed delight from Southern India. – PEXELS Dolma is a stuffed grappaella is a one-pan wonder that unites saffron-infused rice with an array of proteins like chicken, rabbit and seafood. Rooted in Spanish tradition, paella represents a communal culinary experience, bringing people together to savour the vibrant flavours and textures of this iconic dish. Biryani Aromatic elegance A fragrant and aromatic dish hailing from South Asia, biryani is a symphony of flavours where basmati rice intertwines with a rich blend of spices, herbs and marinated meat. The slow-cooking process imparts an unforgettable fragrance, making biryani a cherished culinary creation that reflects the diversity of South Asian culinary heritage. Arancini Crisp and gooey contrasts From the heart of Italy come arancini, enticing rice balls stuffed with a variety of fillings like mozzarella, ragù or mushrooms. Coated in breadcrumbs and deep-fried to golden perfection, these crispy delights offer a delightful contrast between the crunchy exterior and the gooey, flavorful centre, showcasing the artistry of Italian culinary craftsmanship. Rice culinary canvas oMouthwatering creations from the grain of life Fried rice is Asian fusion in a wok. – PEXELS Arancini is an Italian crispy delight. – PEXELS
LYFE LYFE 17 FRIDAY | DEC 29, 2023 Paella ... Spanish feast in a pan. – PEXELS from this region. Rice, with its global presence, proves to be a culinary chameleon capable of transforming into a multitude of delightful dishes. Each of these twelve rice-based creations tells a unique story of culture, tradition and culinary innovation. Whether you are a seasoned food enthusiast or a curious beginner, exploring the world of rice dishes is a delicious journey that knows no bounds. fermented rice and urad dal batter. Served with coconut chutney and sambal, this light and s p o n g y dish offers a healthy a n d d e l i c i o u s b r e a k f a s t o p t i o n , e m b o d y i n g the rich culinary traditions of Southern India. Thosai (Dosa) Versatile crepe-like wonder Also known as dosa, this is a popular South Indian dish made from a fermented batter of rice and urad dal. This thin, crispy crepe-like delight is versatile, often filled with spiced potatoes or served with various chutneys and sambal, showcasing the diversity of flavours in South Indian cuisine and the culinary marvels that have emerged reflects the luxurious side of Italian cuisine. Fried rice Texture and balance A beloved dish in many Asian cultures, fried rice showcases the culinary prowess of t r a n s f o r m i n g leftover rice into a uick and flavourful sterpiece fit for a king. r-fried with a medley ables, meats and soy dish highlights the exture and balance, fusion of savoury and wide found in cultures ding is a creamy and e by simmering rice in romatic spices. with nuts, dried fruits oney, rice pudding side of this versatile lobal celebration of nce traditional Japanese a rice sandwich filled n, vegetables, and a (seaweed), onigirazu and portable way to of rice on the go, novative spirit within olution. adition ern India, idli is a ce cake made from ce pudding is a sweet global treat. – FREEPIK Onigirazu is a modern Japanese rice sandwich. – PEXELS Thosai ... the South Indian culinary marvel. – FREEPIK Middle Eastern pe leaves. – PEXELS Risotto is a creamy indulgence from Italy. – PEXELS
SCAN ME powered by Contributing Editor Keshy Dhillon / [email protected] Editorial T: 03-7784 6688 F: 03-7785 2624/5 E: [email protected] Advertising T: 03-7784 8888 F: 03-7784 4424 E: [email protected] FRIDAY | DEC 29, 2023 S OME may not know, but many manufacturers always save the best for last. This is basically practiced by every mainstream manufacturer where they make the final model the best one. This final-run model or “end of life” model will come with all the bells and whistles, with features that can overwhelm the most tech savvy drivers. All that at the cheapest price the model has ever been sold at. But why do manufacturers do this? Simply because there is a brand-new model just around the corner. The new one is not just a facelift, but almost every nut and bolt is new, so the manufacturer knows that it will sell well. Even if they skimp out on all the gadgets and features that have become the raison d’etre of the new model. Manufacturers of cars, tech products and almost every other thing in the world, consistently use a tactic called market skimming. The Monash Business School defines market skimming as, “a pricing approach in which the producer sets a high introductory price to attract buyers with a strong desire for the product and the resources to buy it, and then gradually reduces the price to attract the next and subsequent layers of the market.” So, when the product is a Mercedes-Benz, it is not that difficult to skim the market. Mercedes-Benz could practically put their logo on a well-dressed cardboard car and put an exorbitant price on it and tycoons would still buy it. Such is the strength of the brand. However, the car we preview here is the last of the W213 E300 facelift variant, and it is a proper Mercedes-Benz in every sense of the word. This writer has to confess to a few things though. Having owned a W212 Mercedes-Benz for eight years, and having had an ownership experience I wouldn’t wish on my own worst enemy, I have to say that my view of the German brand is not the best. That is the first confession. Having also had a less than remarkable experience reviewing an electric version of a luxury Mercedes-Benz recently, my view of the brand has been further cemented. Truth be told, anyone who asked my opinion of Mercedes-Benz, I would simply point them to Lexus. Because why would I recommend a brand after my own experience with it. And Lexus is by far one of the best at the game. That is the second confession. So recently a cousin asked which car they should buy with a budget of about RM400,000. The person was past 50, small sized and didn’t mind any car as long as it felt luxurious and looked good. I told her to make an appointment with a Lexus sales advisor to check out the Lexus NX. █ BY KESHY DHILLON Brand power Good time to buy ‘end of life’ W213 Mercedes-Benz E300 New19” AMG wheels. The Multibeam LED headlights come with Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus Technology that automatically illuminate dark spots. The stance of the car is sporty yet does not look out of taste. The 2.0L, four-cylinder, turbo engine is geared for power and efficiency.
MOTORING MOTORING FRIDAY | DEC 29, 2023 19 And that is the final confession. Then I drove the W213 E300 and was astounded. It felt good, there were no ill-fitting interior panels that were buzzing annoyingly, road noise and vibrations were acceptable, and performance was surprisingly good. I was in love. Before going any further, there was just one thing I did not like and that is the black openpore ash wood trimming. Not because of quality issues, but because of personal preference. I like brighter, rather than dark, gloomy interiors. But to each his own. Now that is out of the way, the E300 here is the AMG line variant and it received an update in the first quarter of 2023. The update includes a new set of 19-inch wheels, bigger cross-drilled brake discs and a boot lid spoiler. Inside, there is a new sports steering wheel. That is just the aesthetic upgrade. In terms of tech, the new car gets a HandsFree Access function. This lets you open the boot by placing your foot under the rear bumper and moving it left to right. Perfect for when you have your hands full. Other than that, everything remains the same. The design of this E300 is probably the biggest appeal, especially in black. The stance and the way it sits on its wheels gives it a sporty appearance that just about anyone can appreciate. It is not extravagant, and neither is it dull. The headlights are Multibeam LEDs with Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus technology. This is perfect for driving in the dark where the headlights illuminate all the dark spots automatically and even dip to avoid glaring oncoming traffic. This was brilliant during a drive to Janda Baik for a birthday party in pitch dark conditions. Getting there highlighted the other strengths of the E300, such as its powerplant. It is powered by a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder, turbocharged, petrol engine that puts out 258PS and 370Nm of torque. This propels the car to 100kph in a respectable 6.2 seconds and onto a top speed of 250kph. But it is not just decently powerful, it is also quite efficient thanks to a nine-speed transmission. MercedesBenz claims the E300 needs just 6.5-litres to travel 100km. With today’s petrol costing RM2.05 per litre (RON95), it will cost you just RM13 to travel from Kuala Lumpur to Ipoh. On the highway, the E300 will happily cruise at 150kph all day long without feeling strained and the interior hushed. And when you hit traffic, it has features that will keep you comfortable and entertained. As we found out when we hit the Deepavali rush during the drive to Janda Baik. The Burmester sound system provided an immersive experience for all our favourite music that played via Apple CarPlay. And it was also a dark cloudy day which allowed us to open the full-length panoramic roof. And that let in some muchneeded light into the interior, instantly making it feel more comfortable. The E300 also comes with the Distronic Plus system, which is basically Mercedes-Benz lingo for adaptive cruise control. This is perfect for heavy traffic conditions when you can simply let the car do the braking and accelerating while you focus on steering and maintain your lane. There were three of us during the drive to Janda Baik, and that meant we had to install the child seat. That is no big deal since Mercedes-Benz does have the most easily accessibly Isofix mounts in the business, though the removable caps that hide the mounts may go missing if you are careless. Installing a child seat for a three-year-old is basically a litmus test for the interior packaging of any car. Child seats are great for safety and ensuring the little monsters don’t terrorise you when you’re driving. But that also means they are sitting higher and closer to the seat ahead, so they tend to kick and soil the front passenger seat. The solution to that would be to move the seat forward, but that sacrifices on leg space at the front. However, it was not too bad in the E300. A 175cm passenger could still get comfortable up front, making the E-Class comfortable for everyone. And so, the Mercedes-Benz E300 won my heart, and I do not usually sulk when returning a car, but I was sad to be returning the car as it proved to be the perfect family partner. The W213 model is nearing the end of its life, and it will soon be replaced by the all-new W214 E-Class. But that also means that this is a great time to buy the E300 as it comes with all the features it never had before. And all of that is priced at RM349,888, which is already RM50,000 cheaper than it was at the beginning of the year. As for whether that cousin of mine that bought the Lexus, she bought the E300 without telling me (not like she has to). When I asked her why she bought that instead of the Lexus, she simply said, “people will know I have made it in life when I arrive in a Mercedes-Benz”. Such is the power of the Benz brand. SPECIFICATIONS Engine: 2.0L, four-cylinder, turbocharged Power: 258PS @ 5800rpm Torque: 370Nm @ 1800rpm Transmission: 9G-Tronic automatic Acceleration (0-100kph): 6.2 seconds Fuel consumption: 6.5L/100km Top speed: 250kph Comfort, Features, Tech. Dark interior trim. The interior feels well built but the dark Ash Wood trim may not be everyone’s taste. The new sports steering wheel looks and feels great. The 12.3” infotainment screen is where all the controls are placed. The driver also gets a 12.3” digital meter panel. The Burmester sound system provides an immersive experience for all passengers. Rear passengers get their own climate settings. Front seats are some of the most comfortable in the segment.
MOTORING MOTORING FRIDAY | DEC 29, 2023 20 VW recalls 6,671 vehicles VOLKSWAGEN Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) has issued a recall for certain models manufactured between 2010 and 2014, affecting a total of 6,671 vehicles. The models subject to inspection include the sixth generation Golf GTI, Eos, Passat CC, Polo, Beetle, and Vento. The focus of the recall is on vehicles equipped with a specific driver front airbag gas generator housing. The concern revolves around the degradation of the front driver airbag housing generator’s propellant. This deterioration is attributed to prolonged exposure to high humidity and temperature fluctuations. The potential consequence is an increased risk of injury to both the driver and passengers. In response to this issue, VPCM has collaborated with its dealer partners to ensure the availability of necessary parts and to facilitate a smooth and efficient recall process. The nationwide recall will be executed in phases to effectively manage the number of affected cases. Owners of the identified vehicles will receive notifications through email and WhatsApp, utilising information from the Volkswagen database. For those who acquired their vehicles from previous owners or used car dealerships, an urgent recommendation is made to contact the nearest Volkswagen authorised dealer for verification. In the event that parts replacement is required, VPCM assures owners that all labour and replacement parts necessary for the service will be provided at no cost. To check whether their vehicle is subject to the recall, owners can visit the Volkswagen Malaysia website and enter their 17-digit VIN number, located at the bottom left of the vehicle’s windscreen. VPCM says it is committed to prioritising the safety of its customers and encourages prompt action from all affected vehicle owners to ensure a swift and effective resolution to this recall. State control biggest car dealership PRESIDENT Vladimir Putin has placed Russia’s largest car dealership under temporary state management, a move the Kremlin claimed was driven by commercial considerations. However, the founder of Rolf, Russian businessman Sergei Petrov, argued that this action portrayed the country as uninvestable. Rolf, founded by Petrov and currently owned by a Cyprusbased firm, was one of the earliest car dealerships to emerge after the collapse of the Soviet Union The temporary state control, outlined in a decree published on a government website, follows Moscow’s trend of seizing Western-owned assets in response to sanctions disrupting Russian assets in the West. While Danish brewer Carlsberg and French dairy giant Danone have been affected before, the takeover of Rolf marks the first instance of a prominent Russian business leader losing control of his property in this manner. Petrov, residing in Austria, faces accusations from Russian authorities of illegally moving money abroad, allegations he vehemently denies. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov insisted that the move was driven by economic expediency and compliance with Russian legislation amid the current international economic situation. Although Rolf was a Russian company, its ownership structure included offshore elements, prompting state intervention, according to Peskov. Rolf, which traditionally sold a variety of foreign-branded cars, announced the appointment of Alexei Gulyaev as its new CEO, with Svetlana Vinogradova as the first deputy. The temporary management, Rolf asserted, would not impact its operations. Russia’s federal property management agency, Rosimushchestvo, aims to develop and enhance Rolf’s financial performance. Petrov criticised the move, viewing it as another blow to Russia’s investment landscape. He questioned whether investors, particularly from Asia, would be willing to risk purchasing stakes in Russian assets. Petrov expressed scepticism about the temporary nature of the management, suggesting it might be a cover to redistribute assets, driven by political motives and agreements. The founder of Rolf raised concerns about the inefficiency of state involvement in retail, highlighting the potential devastating effects on businesses. Petrov, who, in 2014, was one of the few Russian businessmen to criticise the damage to EastWest relations after the annexation of Crimea, faced investigations in 2019. The accusations against Rolf included buying shares at inflated prices, a charge Petrov believed could be linked to his political views. In September, a former senior manager at Rolf was sentenced to 8� years in prison for allegedly participating in an illegal fund transfer abroad, and an arrest warrant was issued for Petrov. Volvo set to launch ES90 VOLVO’S upcoming electric vehicle, the ES90, is set to replace the S90, marking the automaker’s commitment to electrification. Built on the SPA2 platform, the mid-size luxury sedan will feature one or two electric motors and a substantial 111kWh gross or 107kWh net battery, providing a range of over 600km. The ES90 will be slightly larger than its internal combustion engine counterpart, measuring 4,999mm in length, 1,945mm in width, and 1,547mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3,102mm. Internally known as Project V551, the allwheel-drive ES90 is expected to weigh 2600kg, while the single-engine variant will weigh 2500kg. Production is scheduled to begin in May 2024, with the first customer deliveries anticipated in mid-2025. It will initially be available in China and Europe, with a particular focus on expanding into markets such as the United States. There are no reports of it being introduced into the Malaysian market so we will just have to play the waiting game for now. This move is part of Volvo’s broader strategy to introduce six electric models by 2026, with the new electric Volvo contributing to the brand’s commitment to sustainability and innovation. Sweden investigates Tesla’s suspension failures SWEDEN’S Transport Agency announced that it is currently conducting an investigation into suspension failures in Tesla vehicles, a parallel effort to a similar probe initiated by Norway’s traffic safety regulator. In an emailed statement to Reuters, the Swedish agency confirmed, “We can… confirm that investigative work is also underway with us.” As of now, Tesla has not responded to requests for comment on the matter. Meanwhile, the Finnish transport and communications agency informed Reuters that it has not been approached regarding any issues related to faulty suspension failures. The Norwegian Public Roads Administration (NPRA) disclosed last week that it had commenced an inquiry into Tesla in September 2022. The NPRA has asked the automaker to evaluate consumer complaints about lower rear control arms breaking on its Model S and X vehicles. Depending on the findings, the Norwegian agency may recommend a recall of the vehicles for part replacement if they are deemed to pose a “serious risk.” Alternatively, they may conclude the investigation if no safety concerns are identified or choose to extend the review. Regarding the Norwegian probe, the Swedish agency acknowledged that it, too, had received “a number of notifications about cars from the Tesla brand that have suffered from similar problems.” However, a spokesperson for the Swedish regulator declined to provide additional details, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation. These inquiries in Sweden and Norway come on the heels of a Reuters investigation published earlier in the week. The investigation was based on an examination of thousands of Tesla documents and interviews with former employees, including service managers and technicians in Norway.
FRIDAY | DEC 29, 2023 Editorial T: 03-7784 6688 F: 03-7785 2624/5 E: [email protected] Advertising T: 03-7784 8888 F: 03-7784 4424 SCAN ME E: [email protected] Penang remains country’s top exporter in November million), Kedah (-RM78.8 million), Sarawak (-RM60.9 million), Kelantan (-RM43 million), Perak (-RM15.9 million) and Perlis (-RM6.2 million),” he said. Selangor continued to dominate Malaysia’s imports with a share of 26.5%, followed by Johor (20.6%), Penang (20.4%), Kuala Lumpur (9.4%) and Kedah (5.6%), he said. - Bernama oState registers 29% share, value of shipments down RM5.4 billion: Statistics Dept Saudi Aramco mulls retail operations in Malaysia, Southeast Asia DHAHRAN: Saudi Aramco, one of the world’s largest integrated energy and chemicals companies, is looking at expanding its downstream activities in Malaysia as it aims to make Pengerang Integrated Complex (PIC) in Johor the largest hub in Southeast Asia. Aramco president (downstream) Mohammed Y. Al Qahtani said the company is excited about the Pengerang project and looking forward to not only sustaining the operation but also its potential expansion in the future. Asked if the 90-year-old company was looking at retail operations in Southeast Asia, Mohammed said that is something that Aramco is currently doing globally. “We always look at our assets to see any potential for upgrades, expansion and most importantly, converting liquids to chemicals. “That will be something that we will be evaluating for the future,“ he said in a recent interview with Bernama and selected media outlets from China, South Korea and Japan at Aramco’s headquarters here. Citing Aramco’s recent 100% equity acquisition of Esmax, a leading diversified downstream fuels and lubricants retailer in Chile, Mohammed said the move was part of the company’s strategy to expand retail, lubricants and trading businesses globally. He said the acquisition would enable Aramco to enter the South American retail market, adding that the company’s downstream segment’s activities consist of refining petrochemicals, base oils and lubricants, retail operations, distribution, supply and trading as well as power generation. These activities, he said, support Aramco’s upstream and downstream operations by enabling it to optimise crude oil sales and product placement through its significant infrastructure network of pipelines and terminals as well as access to shipping and logistics resources. On the PIC, which is jointly developed with Petroliam Nasional Bhd (Petronas), Mohammed noted that the facility is running at its full potential, improving reliability and profitability and securing the right platform for growth in the future. During his visit to Riyadh last October, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said that Aramco is committed to expanding its Pengerang facilities by adding petrochemical and gas downstream activities for it to become the largest hub in Southeast Asia. He said the commitment was conveyed to him by Saudi Arabia’s Trade Minister Dr Majid Abdullah Alkassabi and the president and CEO of Saudi Aramco, Amin H Nasser. Aramco had teamed up with Petronas to set up the Pengerang Refining Company Sdn Bhd and Pengerang Petrochemical Company Sdn Bhd, in Pengerang, Johor, with an investment of US$7 billion (RM32 billion) in the joint venture. Johor-S’pore SEZ seen spurring demand for office space, especially in JB JOHOR BAHRU: The proposed JohorSingapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) is set to spur and amplify demand for office space, especially in Johor Bahru, in the coming years. IGB Property Management Sdn Bhd director Wong Khim Chon said demand for office space in the state has been on the rise since the reopening of Malaysia’s borders and the transition phase to endemic in April last year, driven by economic growth and stability. He said the surge is particularly evident during periods of economic expansion as businesses experience growth, leading to an increased need for office space to support expanding operations. “Moreover, certain industries may undergo rapid growth or changes, influencing their office space requirements. “The potential establishment of the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone and the impending completion of the Johor Baru-Singapore Rapid Transit System link are expected to further facilitate crossborder movement of people and goods, potentially amplifying the demand for office space in Johor Baru,“ he told Bernama in an email interview yesterday. Wong said, however, despite the intensifying competition in the commercial property market due to the influx of new developments, the company remained steadfast in its commitment to providing superior specifications tailored to the specific needs of tenants. IGB’s primary focus, he said, is prioritising its tenants’ businesses, ensuring that they thrive within welldesigned and strategically located towers. Commenting on the office space offered at the North Tower @ Mid Valley Southkey, he said currently, the committed occupancy at the North Tower is about 30% of the total net lettable area of about 327,000 sq ft. The completion of South Tower @ Mid Valley Southkey is targeted for the second quarter of next year. Regarding the potential addition of more towers in Mid Valley Southkey in the future, Wong said if there is an increased demand in the Johor market for office space, the company would certainly be interested in exploring the possibility of adding more towers. Mid Valley Southkey has rapidly evolved into a bustling hub of commerce, leisure and lifestyle. KUALA LUMPUR: Penang has remained the top exporter for November 2023 in the country with a 29% share followed by Johor (22.6%), Selangor (16.9%), Sarawak (8.3%) and Kuala Lumpur (5.7%), said the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DoSM). However, Penang’s exports for the month recorded a decrease of RM5.4 billion, said chief statistician Datuk Seri Mohd Uzir Mahidin. He said other states that recorded lower exports were Selangor (-RM2.4 billion), Sarawak (-RM1.6 billion), Terengganu (-RM869.1 million), Malacca (-RM755.1 million), Labuan (-RM704.8 million), Pahang (-RM308 million), Negri Sembilan (-RM164.2 million), Perlis (-RM29.9 million) and Kuala Lumpur (-RM9.9 million). Conversely, exports grew in Johor by RM3 billion, Kedah (RM929.2 million), Perak (RM540.8 million), Sabah (RM472.3 million) and Kelantan (RM18.6 million), he said in a statement yesterday. According to the department’s ExportImport Statistics by State November 2023 report, Malaysia’s total trade for November 2023 amounted to RM231.8 billion, with exports and imports recorded at RM122.1 billion and RM109.7 billion, respectively. The country’s exports eased by RM7.6 billion (-5.9%) compared with the same month a year ago. Meanwhile, looking at the performance of imports by state, Mohd Uzir said imports grew RM1.8 billion (1.7%) as compared to the same month in 2022. “The increase in imports was attributed to higher imports in most states such as Kuala Lumpur (RM2.7 billion), Negri Sembilan (RM1.4 billion), Pahang (RM1.1 billion), Sabah (RM514.3 million), Selangor (RM492.7 million), Johor (RM197.1 million), Malacca (RM114.4 million) and Terengganu (RM109.4 million). “However, imports decreased in Penang by RM3.9 billion, Labuan (-RM280.2
BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE FRIDAY | DEC 29, 2023 22 5G saga – Malaysia decides to adopt dual network model oSecond grid will provide more control and flexibility for telcos to expand their coverage KUALA LUMPUR: The telecommunication sector witnessed some major decisions by the government in 2023, including the shift in implementation of the 5G network from a single wholesale network model to a dual-network model. On May 3, Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil announced that the government has decided to implement a dualnetwork once Digital National Bhd’s (DNB) 5G rollout has reached 80% coverage of populated areas (CoPA). DNB is a special purpose vehicle established in 2021 under the Finance Ministry and is now the sole owner of the 5G spectrum network, soon to be operating alongside the second network which is yet to be finalised. As of mid-November 2023, the 5G network coverage in Malaysia has reached 73% of populated areas, with the adoption rate at 9.1% as of September. GlobalData principal analyst Alfie Amir said the second wholesale network will provide more control and flexibility for telecommunication companies (telcos) with their 5G network. “This will also drive wider innovations such as collaboration with preferred partners; leveraging 5G features like network slicing, multi-access edge computing and aligning coverage with business strategy,” he told Bernama. To support the country’s 5G network development, smooth deployment remains the top priority for the mobile network operators (MNOs). Five telcos have agreed to take up equity stakes in DNB. The five MNOs namely CelcomDigi Bhd, Maxis Bhd, Telekom Malaysia Bhd, U Mobile Sdn Bhd and YTL Communications Sdn Bhd have executed their share subscription agreement to take up an accumulative 70% stake in the single wholesale network. Upon a successful due diligence, the telcos will inject RM233 million each to acquire a 14% stake. The government, through the Minister of Finance (Incorporated) (MoF Inc) will retain the remaining 30% and hold a Special Share. In June, CelcomDigi officially commenced its full-scale programme to build a future digital network by integrating and modernising the largest 4G network in Malaysia with the latest long-term evolution (LTE) and 5G-ready technologies. The programme includes consolidating the respective 12,000 sites from Celcom and Digi into a single largest network deployment of Mercury Securities posts credible results, declares maiden interim dividend of 0.5 sen KUALA LUMPUR: Mercury Securities Group Bhd (MSG), reported revenue of RM8.71 million for the fourth quarter ended Oct 31, 2023 (Q4’23), an increase of 19.93% from RM7.26 million in the preceding quarter (Q3’23). In a press release, MSG said its stockbroking segment contributed RM6.35 million, while the corporate finance segment added RM2.36 million, reflecting the group’s multichannel revenue stream. MSG’s gross profit margin stood at 57.93% for Q4’23. Profit before tax (PBT) for the cumulative quarters reached RM12.46 million, after fully charging the one-off non-recurring listing expenses of RM3.93 million. Excluding this one-off non-recurring listing expenses of RM3.93 million, the group performed creditably with PBT for the current quarter of RM4.6 million and RM16.39 million for the full financial year. The directors of the group declared a maiden interim dividend of 0.5 sen per share based on the entitlement date of Jan 12, 2024 whilst the payment date has been fixed on Feb 2, 2024. MSG said, ”Our credible performance this quarter, evidenced by a meaningful increase in revenue and a healthy gross profit margin, demonstrates the effectiveness of our business strategies. These results underscore our resilience and our all-round proficiency in a mixed market environment. We are particularly proud of our team’s efforts in achieving these results and remain focused on sustaining this growth trajectory.” Looking ahead, MSG said it was committed to drive revenue growth and optimising operating costs. Key initiatives include expanding its share margin financing portfolio, enhancing its online trading platform with algorithmic capabilities to increase market share, enlarging its proprietary trading teams and adding corporate finance personnel to further expand the corporate finance division. Alliance Bank offers flood relief aid KUALA LUMPUR: Alliance Bank Malaysia Bhd (ABMB) yesterday announced a flood relief assistance programme to help ease some of the financial burdens faced by customers impacted by the recent floods. These comprise options of a loan moratorium of up to six months, loan repayment modifications, and waivers of fee and charges for customers and businesses that have been affected by the flood situation in several states nationwide. “We understand the emotional and financial strain on the families and businesses impacted by the flood. We hope the flood relief assistance will help ease some of their financial worries. Affected customers can contact us to discuss the relief package that meets their needs,” said ABMB group CEO Kellee Kam. The bank is also assisting its employees affected by the flood to help them through this trying time. The flood relief assistance is open for application with immediate effect until Jan 26, 2024. It offers payment relief on all conventional loans and Islamic financing facilities. The bank will also waive fees and charges for selected services such as replacement of debit card, ATM cards, cheque books and passbooks lost or damaged during the flood. To find out more about the flood relief assistance programme, affected customers may contact the bank’s customer service at 03-5516 9988 (consumer banking) or 1300-80-3388 (business banking). Alternatively, customers may contact their relationship managers directly. As of midNovember 2023, 5G network coverage in Malaysia has reached 73% of populated areas, with the adoption rate at 9.1% as of September. – BERNAMAPIX 18,000 sites following their successful merger back in December 2022. CelcomDigi CEO Datuk Idham Nawawi expects the company’s integration exercise to reach 30% by the end of this year, a further 40% next year and the remaining 30% in the third year. Alfie said CelcomDigi Bhd as the new market leader, has greater control of the market such as higher pricing power, stronger brand, economies of scale and wider distribution level. “This will also drive other players to drive wider initiatives such as operational efficiency, service experience, product innovation and customer experience to close the gap with CelcomDigi. “Nevertheless, the integration between Celcom and Digi could also lead to issues such as customer experience, service disruption, redundancies, and brand confusion,“ he added. GlobalData forecast that the overall telecommunications market in Malaysia – both enterprise and consumer segment – is maturing and is expected to grow at only 2.6% yearon-year (y-o-y) in 2024 to RM32.4 billion. Alfie noted that between the mobile and fixed sectors, mobile services would increase by 3.4% y-o-y in 2024 to RM23.9 billion driven by the growth in data and IoT revenues but cushioned by the decline in legacy voice and messaging services. He added that 5G adoption would grow and account for 12% of the total mobile users by the end of 2024, while fixed services would remain flat at RM8.5 billion with only 0.5% y-o-y growth next year. “The strong growth of broadband services (7.1% y-o-y) driven by higher bandwidth and wider adoption would be offset by the continuous decline of traditional fixed voice services,” said Alfie. In a move to ensure more people can enjoy and experience 5G connectivity, the government had on Aug 29 launched the 5G Rahmah package as well as the Civil Servant Rahmah postpaid package. The packages and incentives were a result of the Madani government’s effort in collaboration with five major MNOs as well as phone manufacturing companies namely Samsung Malaysia Electronics and Honor Malaysia.
BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE FRIDAY | DEC 29, 2023 23 Master Tec aims to raise RM61.66 million from IPO PETALING JAYA: Master Tec Group Bhd, a manufacturer of wires and cables, aims to raise RM61.66 million through its initial public offering (IPO) on the ACE Market. Executive director and CEO Tee Kok Hwa said two-thirds of the proceeds will be allocated for the construction of two manufacturing plants in Alor Gajah, Malacca, and the purchase of new machinery and equipment for expansion into the manufacture of medium voltage (MV) power cables. “With the two new plants, we aim to increase our annual production capacity by 3,600 tonnes of MV power cables per year, in addition to the existing cumulative production capacity of up to 9,500 tonnes of copper-cored and aluminium-cored wires and cables per year. We target to commence the newly added production of MV power cables by the fourth quarter of 2024,” he said at the prospectus launch yesterday. He added, “With the commencement of our new factories and increase in production capacity, we will be positioned to serve a wider range of customers which we are confident will translate into the delivery of a better financial performance for the From left: Master Tec directors Hooi Lian Jye and Yee Ying Sung; Tee; managing director Datuk Lau Kim San; SJ Securities Sdn Bhd managing director and CEO Datuk Ahmad Azman; capital markets adviser Datuk Wan Asmadi; head of corporate finance David Chan Tze Kwang; and executive director of operations Annie Lee Mui Mui at the prospectus launch. oBulk of proceeds to fund building of two factories, expansion into medium-voltage power cable production █ BYHAYATUN RAZAK [email protected] company.” The RM61.66 million IPO proceeds will be allocated as follows: 27.22% for new medium voltage power cable manufacturing plants (RM16.78 million), 39.55% for new machinery and equipment purchases (RM24.39 million), 26.42% for general working capital (RM16.29 million), and 6.81% for estimated listing expenses (RM4.2 million). Master Tec’s IPO entails the public offering of 285.6 million ordinary shares, comprising a public issue of 158.1 million new shares and an offer for sale of 127.5 million existing shares which collectively represent 28% of the group’s enlarged issued share capital of 1.02 billion ordinary shares. Based on the enlarged share capital of 1.02 billion ordinary shares and IPO price of RM0.39 per share, Master Tec is expected to have an indicative market capitalisation of RM397.8 million. SJ Securities Sdn Bhd is Master Tec’s principal adviser, sponsor, sole underwriter and sole placement agent for the group’s IPO and listing exercise. Master Tec is primarily involved in the manufacturing and distribution of a wide range of lowvoltage power cables, control and instrumentation cables and solar direct current power cables under its “Mastertec” trademark since 2009. The group is also involved in the trading and distribution of a wide range of MV power cables and fibre optic cables to cater to various enduser markets. In 2022, it held a market share of about 3.57% in Malaysia. All three of its manufacturing plants are located in Alor Gajah. The group has an accumulated capacity to produce up to 9,500 tonnes of wires and cables annually – 4,000 tonnes of copper-cored wires and cables and 5,500 tonnes of aluminium-cored wires and cables. Its wires and cables are used in sectors including power utilities, renewable energy, property development and construction, oil and gas, infrastructures, public transport, manufacturing, industrial, electrical and electronics and telecommunications. It is the supplier of power cables to utilities Tenaga Nasional Bhd, Sarawak Energy and Sabah Electricity Sdn Bhd . Based on the IPO prospectus, Master Tec registered a slightly lower revenue of RM138.039 million for the six-month financial period ended June 30, 2023 (FPE 2023) compared with RM169.705 million in the previous year’s corresponding period. However, profit after tax increased by 65% year-on-year, from FPE 2022’s PAT of RM8.240 million to RM13.632 million in FPE 2023. Master Tec is scheduled to list on the ACE Market on Jan 29, 2024. Wentel Engineering inks underwriting deal with TA Securities PETALING JAYA: Wentel Engineering Holdings Bhd has inked an underwriting agreement with TA Securities Holdings Bhd for the company’s initial public offering (IPO) on the ACE Market of Bursa Malaysia Securities. In a statement yesterday, the company said the IPO entailed an offering of 273.2 million new ordinary shares and an offer for sale of 46 million existing ordinary shares. “Of the 273.2 million public issue shares, 57.5 million public issue shares will be made available to the Malaysian public via balloting, and 33 million public issue shares to eligible directors, employees and persons who have contributed to the success of Wentel Engineering and its subsidiaries. “About 38.95 million public issue shares will be allocated by way of private placements to selected investors and the remaining 143.75 million public issue shares are allocated for bumiputra investors approved by the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry,“ Wentel Engineering said. According to the agreement, TA Securities would underwrite 57.5 million public issue shares, namely the portion made available to the Malaysian public via balloting. Wentel Engineering executive director Wong Chun Wei said the IPO would provide funding for the company’s expansion and enable the public to participate in its future growth. “Our focus is to establish the new manufacturing plant as well as purchase new machinery and equipment to address opportunities in Malaysia and Singapore, targeting existing and new customers,“ he added. He said the company will continue to leverage its core competencies and strengths in the fabrication of semi-finished metal products, metal parts and assembly of finished products to grow its business. M’sian consumers remain positive on economic outlook: UOB study PETALING JAYA: Malaysian consumers remain positive about the economic outlook and are focused on securing their long-term financial health through savings, investments and insurance, according to UOB’s flagship Asean Consumer Sentiment Study (ACSS) 2023. The study found that Malaysian consumers are more optimistic about the economic situation than their counterparts in other parts of the Asean region, with about two in three respondents expecting themselves to be financially better off by June next year. Although three in four respondents feel Malaysia will likely face an economic downturn within the next six to 12 months, this downcast sentiment has softened compared with last year. “With this optimism, about 30% of Malaysian consumers plan to increase their allocation for savings, investment and insurance,” it said. UOB said spending on insurance tops the Baby Boomers’ list while Gen Z and Y are more focused on increasing their savings. “Gen X, on the other hand, prioritise their investments,” it said. On daily concerns and spending habits, three out of four Malaysian consumers surveyed are increasingly more concerned about their finances, specifically due to rising inflation, increased household expenses and a decline in savings holdings. About 37% surveyed indicated they have increased spending on essentials such as groceries with another 35% have spent more on utilities. Consequentially, Malaysian consumers are most worried about having the ability to set aside money for saving (34%), ability to afford essential items (30%) and ability to maintain current lifestyles (26%). “Separately, on discretionary spending, consumers are cutting back spending on jewellery (36%), vacation (35%) and dining out (34%),” UOB said. Malaysian consumers have a strong preference to adopt digital banking channels with 54% considering mobile banking apps as the most trusted banking channel followed by internet banking through web browsers (43%). “This correlates to the increase in usage of mobile banking apps by 44% and internet banking by 34%. “One in three Malaysians surveyed prefer to apply for simple products (38%) such as purchasing insurance (32%) and investment products (36%) online,” it said. In its fourth year, ACSS is UOB’s regional flagship study analysing consumer trends and sentiments in Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia and Vietnam. This year’s study was conducted from June 1 to 26 and surveyed 3,400 respondents online across the five countries, including 600 in Malaysia. AWC completes acquisition of Stream Group, Premium Patents PETALING JAYA: AWC Bhd has completed the acquisition of Stream Group Sdn Bhd and 51% equity interest in Premium Patents Sdn Bhd following the payment of the balance sum amounting to RM99 million to the vendors in accordance with the share sale agreement. Stream Group, which owns the remaining 49% equity interest in Premium Patents, will now become a wholly owned subsidiary of AWC. In a statement, AWC group CEO and president Datuk Ahmad Kabeer said the acquisitions, with a total purchase consideration of RM110 million, are a strategic move to form the foundation of the company’s multi-year growth strategy. “AWC is excited about the opportunities it brings to enhance and strengthen market position in the Automated Waste Collection System (AWCS) space. “Notably, the addition of Stream Group as a wholly owned subsidiary gives us the impetus to put our efforts and financial resources behind Stream Group as we provide the necessary support for them to venture into new markets like Indonesia and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia where we expect to replicate the large-scale adoption of Stream Group’s AWCS like in Al Raha Beach, Abu Dhabi,” he said. Kabeer said the company has also exercised the call option for the remaining stake in Trackworks and Supplies, completing the acquisition and further solidifying AWC’s commitment to expand capabilities and service offerings in the rail sector. “With our support and the opportunities that abound, I am confident that Stream Group and Trackworks and Supplies will positively contribute to our growth in the near term,” he added. Stream Group is an engineering company specialising in the design and installation of AWCS with presence in Malaysia, Singapore, China, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Australia and India. As at July 1, 2023, Stream Group had an outstanding order book of about RM132.36 million and a tender book of about RM107.11 million. Premium Patents is principally involved in registering industrial methods, systems or processes patents and trademarks worldwide and licensing activities. The proprietary “WasteStream Shuttle” system will be a unique selling point. The system can reduce the energy cost of AWCS by abut 70%.
BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE FRIDAY | DEC 29, 2023 24 /theSunMedia FOLLOW ON YOUTUBE Malaysian Paper TOKYO: Toyota Motor’s small-car unit Daihatsu Motor said yesterday it would compensate lower-tier contractors in its supply chain to cushion the blow from an indefinite production stoppage after revelations last week of a wider safety scandal. Daihatsu, which had already announced plans to compensate 423 direct suppliers, has said it would keep production halted in Japan at least until the end of January while authorities investigate it for safetyinspection irregularities. Production was stopped at all of its factories in Japan this week. Daihatsu says it has more than 4,000 companies in its supply chain that are linked to its production and more than 1,000 other firms are associated in other ways. A Daihatsu executive yesterday declined to provide an estimate on how much the more than onemonth production stoppage and supplier compensation would cost the company. “We fully understand that suspending the company’s business and providing compensation will cost a considerable amount of money,” Keita Ide, an executive manager at the company told reporters. “However, it is difficult to accurately calculate the impact at this point as it is unclear how long this period will last.” Daihatsu has held two meetings, each attended by more than 300 direct contractors, over the scandal’s fallout so far. Toyota’s chief communications officer Jun Nagata said the company would fully support its wholly owned unit, including with loans already prepared for dealer and supplier compensation if Daihatsu requested such help. “We’ll fully back them up in the event of a lack of funds,” Nagata said. Daihatsu wants to keep open various options for dealing with the cost of the stoppage and the wider fallout of the scandal, including possible bank loans, said Ide from the company’s corporate management group. Daihatsu is already consulting with financial institutions, he said. – Reuters China smartphone maker Xiaomi unveils its first EV oCompany aspires to become one of world’s top five automakers BEIJING: Chinese smartphone maker Xiaomi took the wraps off its first electric vehicle yesterday and promptly announced it was aiming to become one of world’s top five automakers. The sedan, dubbed the SU7, is a highly anticipated model that is expected to make the most of its shared operating system with the company’s popular phones. But the car is making its debut at a time when the world’s largest auto market is wrestling with a capacity glut and slowing demand that have stoked a bruising price war. That did not stop Xiaomi chief executive Lei Jun outlining big ambitions that include building “a dream car comparable to Porsche and Tesla”. “By working hard over the next 15 to 20 years, we will become one of the world’s top five automakers, striving to lift China’s overall automobile industry,” Lei said at the event. Like several other tech firms, Xiaomi has been seeking to Lei speaking at the event on the company’s first electric vehicle in Beijing yesterday. – REUTERSPIC Daihatsu to compensate lower-tier suppliers Vietnam central bank ready to tackle soaring local gold prices HANOI: Vietnam’s central bank said yesterday it stood ready to intervene in the local gold market as soaring domestic prices of the metal prompted a rebuke from the country’s prime minister. The price of gold in the Southeast Asian country has gained nearly 20% since the beginning of the year, reaching a peak of 80 million dong (US$3,292.86/RM15,176) per tael on Tuesday. The State Bank of Vietnam (SBV), the country’s central bank, said both bid and ask prices were rising but the gold bar market was not seeing abnormal fluctuations. “It was because domestic prices were following global cues but at a bigger pace,” the SBV said in a statement, adding it “stands ready to intervene to stabilise the prices”. The SBV also warned people to be cautious with gold transactions amid the “complex and unpredictable market”. Earlier yesterday, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh said the high prices had negatively impacted market sentiment and ordered the central bank to tackle the issue more effectively. “The State Bank has to have healthy, effective solutions to stabilise the market,” he said in a statement. One Hanoi-based stockbroker said many of his clients were withdrawing money from bank accounts to invest in the safe haven that is gold. “Stock market is gloomy, so is real estate market while deposit rates are exceptionally low. Therefore many are turning to gold as a safer bet,” he said. – Reuters B R I E F STHAILAND’S HOUSEHOLD DEBT-TO-GDP RATIO RISES TO 90.9% AT END OF Q3 BANGKOK: Thailand’s ratio of household debt to gross domestic product rose slightly to 90.9% at the end of the third quarter from a revised 90.8% in the previous quarter, central bank data showed yesterday. The amount of debt increased to 16.2 trillion baht (RM2.1 trillion) at the end of September from 16.1 trillion baht at the end of June. Other data showed Thailand’s private consumption and investment grew in November but exports increased less than in October leading to a current account deficit. The country recorded a current account deficit of US$1.2 billion (RM5.5 billion) in November, after a surplus of US$700 million the previous month. – Reuters S. KOREA REASSURES MARKETS AFTER BUILDER PLANS DEBT REVAMP SEOUL: Taeyoung Engineering & Construction, a mid-sized South Korean builder, said yesterday it planned to restructure its debt and authorities quickly announced they were working to ensure its troubles did not spill over into financial markets. The country’s 16th largest builder has 4.58 trillion won (RM16.4 billion) in debt including project financing loans, which is less than 1% of assets held by local financial institutions, the Financial Services Commission said in a statement. “We see limited impact on financial markets as the issue was already known and as the market situation is stable, but the government plans to significantly beef up contingency measures to make sure any negative sentiment doesn’t lead to increased volatility,” it said. – Reuters diversify beyond its core business to EVs – a plan it first flagged in 2021. It has pledged to invest US$10 billion (RM46 billion) in autos over a decade and is one of the few new players in China’s EV market as authorities have been reluctant to add to the supply glut. At the launch event in Beijing, Lei said the autonomous driving capabilities of Xiaomi cars would be at the forefront of the industry. The Xiaomi-branded cars will be produced by a unit of stateowned automaker BAIC Group in a Beijing factory with an annual capacity of 200,000 vehicles. – Reuters TOKYO: Japan’s factory output declined in November, weighed by falls in autos production and clouding the outlook for the export-reliant economy. Industrial production fell 0.9% in November from the previous month, data from the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (Meti) showed yesterday. The reading was better than the median market forecast for a 1.6% drop. Motor vehicle production, which has underpinned industrial output, fell 2.5% in November from the prior month due to slowdowns in the manufacturing of small cars and engines, a ministry official said. Output of electrical machinery and information and communication electronics equipment also fell 3.5%, due to sluggish demand in semiconductor and integrated-circuit testing equipment, the official said. Manufacturers surveyed by the industry ministry expect seasonally adjusted output to increase 6.0% in December and decline 7.2% in January. Meti maintained its assessment of industrial output as “seesawing”. “We’ll continue to monitor the impact of the global economic downturn and rising prices,” the official said. Furthermore, a production halt at Toyota Motor’s small car-unit Daihatsu due to safety scandal is expected to add downward pressure on output from January onward, the Meti official said. Regarding the outlook on semiconductor production, the Meti official expected a gradual recovery. Separate data showed Japanese retail sales expanded 5.3% in November from a year earlier. That was roughly in line with the median market forecast for a 5% gain. Compared with the previous month, retail sales grew 1.0% in November, following a 1.7% decline in October, the data showed. Outside of Japan, South Korea’s November factory output posted the fastest gain since May 2022 on soaring chip production, official data showed yesterday. The industrial output index increased 5.3% in November from a year earlier, according to Statistics Korea. From a month earlier, the index gained 3.3%. In Thailand, the manufacturing production index in November dropped 4.71% from a year earlier, the industry ministry said yesterday. It followed October’s 4.31% revised decline. – Reuters Japan November factory output falls on weaker auto production
BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE FRIDAY | DEC 29, 2023 25 STOCKS CLOSING (RM) +/- (RM) VOLUME (’00) NESTLE 119.000 -2.400 1,176 ALLIANZ 18.240 -0.260 522 RAPID 28.940 -0.260 2,454 F&N 28.100 -0.200 327 AJI 15.960 -0.180 185 CHINHIN 3.480 -0.180 8,952 HSI-HSA 0.520 -0.180 500 HSI-HPM 0.725 -0.155 40 HSI-HPW 0.740 -0.145 7,348 HSI-HP7 0.450 -0.140 6,628 PETDAG 21.920 -0.140 1,575 UTDPLT 17.860 -0.140 12,113 IMASPRO 4.020 -0.130 16,076 LPI 11.980 -0.120 239 YNHPROP 4.250 -0.120 29,780 HSI-HSZ 0.610 -0.115 2,760 AYER 6.750 -0.100 30 CARLSBG 19.300 -0.100 1,216 EUROSP 1.350 -0.100 114 HSI-HSJ 0.290 -0.100 30,319 STOCKS CLOSING (RM) +/- (RM) VOLUME (’00) MCEHLDG 2.890 +0.360 19,125 HLBANK 18.820 +0.320 19,468 HEIM 24.120 +0.220 2,819 HUMEIND-LA 3.200 +0.220 108 PELIKAN 0.335 +0.165 2,574,918 DLADY 22.800 +0.160 168 DIN045801028 103.000 +0.100 1 MPI 28.100 +0.100 791 HSI-CVB 0.555 +0.095 980 HSI-CTE 0.430 +0.090 128,989 GREATEC 4.800 +0.080 1,819 HSI-CTK 0.440 +0.075 12 HSI-CTP 0.385 +0.075 1,645 HSI-CTQ 0.390 +0.075 10,202 DKSH 4.600 +0.070 40 HARISON 8.660 +0.070 11 HSI-CTD 0.205 +0.070 566,536 RHBBANK 5.460 +0.070 66,451 HSI-CR8 0.335 +0.065 345,384 HSI-CT1 0.340 +0.065 15,920 STOCKS VOLUME (’00) CLOSING (RM) +/- (RM) +/- (%) PELIKAN 2,574,918 +0.335 +0.165 +97.06 HONGSENG 1,862,576 +0.025 +0.005 +25.00 SCABLE 1,792,365 +0.400 +0.010 +2.56 VSOLAR 1,186,998 +0.225 +0.050 +28.57 MINETEC 1,152,954 +0.150 -0.005 -3.23 VELESTO 993,611 +0.230 - - WIDAD 714,743 +0.480 +0.005 +1.05 LEFORM 677,878 +0.425 +0.010 +2.41 SCIB 629,673 +0.920 +0.005 +0.55 BSLCORP 568,921 +0.045 - - HSI-CTD 566,536 +0.205 +0.070 +51.85 JIANKUN 544,855 +0.190 - - MINETEC-PA 488,244 +0.035 - - FITTERS-WC 453,016 +0.005 - - HSI-CR5 439,674 +0.060 +0.025 +71.43 FRONTKN 431,445 +3.230 - - AIM-WA 406,584 +0.030 +0.005 +20.00 TOPGLOV 388,352 +0.910 -0.010 -1.09 AGES 365,760 +0.075 - - EKOVEST 356,041 +0.500 +0.010 +2.04 SUNBIZ presents a summary of the day’s trading activity on Bursa Malaysia and other markets in an easy to digest format. MARKET ROUND-UP: DECEMBER 28 [ Sources: Bursa Malaysia, Bernama, shareinvestor.com and websites DISCLAIMER: The data and reports are provided as a service to investors. Sun Media Corporation Sdn Bhd shall not be liable or responsible for any consequences resulting from usage of the information. INDEX CHANGE FBMEMAS 10,843.60 +18.02 FBMKLCI 1,457.41 +3.19 CONSUMER PRODUCTS 556.07 -0.75 INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTS 172.87 +0.25 CONSTRUCTION 191.34 +0.01 FINANCIAL SERVICES 16,297.52 +82.44 ENERGY 819.97 -2.21 TELECOMMUNICATIONS 572.3 +3.33 HEALTH CARE 1,908.81 -4.90 TRANSPORTATION 928.8 -0.97 PROPERTY 864.16 -0.36 PLANTATION 7,017.31 -1.02 FBMSHA 11,023.70 -4.77 FBMACE 5,271.75 +62.37 TECHNOLOGY 63.55 +0.47 TURNOVER: 4.238 bil VALUE: RM2.394 bil Top 20 Actives Top 20 Gainers (By RM) Top 20 Losers (By RM) Bursa Indices STOCKS CLOSING (RM) +/- (%) VOLUME (’00) HSI-CRO 0.015 +200.00 5,230 AT 0.010 +100.00 43,853 EAH 0.010 +100.00 2,752 FINTEC 0.010 +100.00 95,916 HSI-CRC 0.010 +100.00 1,260 TWL-WD 0.010 +100.00 13,231 VS-WB 0.010 +100.00 2,250 PELIKAN 0.335 +97.06 2,574,918 XIAOMI-C26 0.055 +83.33 750 HSTECH-CW 0.070 +75.00 7,705 HSI-CR5 0.060 +71.43 439,674 HSI-CTJ 0.060 +71.43 8,785 HSI-CRZ 0.040 +60.00 105,148 HSI-CR1 0.055 +57.14 200 HSI-CTD 0.205 +51.85 566,536 ARMADA-C87 0.015 +50.00 10,408 CMSB-C44 0.045 +50.00 37,470 HSI-CR2 0.045 +50.00 1,193 HSI-CRB 0.015 +50.00 965 HSI-CRM 0.015 +50.00 9,200 Top 20 Gainers (By %) STOCKS CLOSING (RM) +/- (%) VOLUME (’00) NETEASE-C3 0.005 -85.71 100 DIALOG-C1A 0.005 -66.67 400 BYD-C22 0.010 -60.00 6,900 SLVEST-CG 0.070 -53.33 200 BTM-WB 0.005 -50.00 26,900 DNEX-C27 0.030 -45.45 1,500 HSI-HSE 0.070 -36.36 50 HSI-HSF 0.035 -36.36 33,255 BORNOIL 0.010 -33.33 82,767 FOCUS 0.010 -33.33 6,170 JOE-WB 0.010 -33.33 7,650 MLAB 0.010 -33.33 14,448 PINGAN-C16 0.010 -33.33 100 HSI-HP1 0.090 -30.77 75,196 HSI-HP9 0.135 -30.77 800 HSI-HPJ 0.210 -27.59 268,960 LBICAP-WB 0.040 -27.27 748 HSI-HSA 0.520 -25.71 500 HSI-HSJ 0.290 -25.64 30,319 DNEX-C21 0.015 -25.00 160 Top 20 Losers (By %) INDEX CLOSING DAILY DAILY CHANGE CHANGE (%) DJIA (US) 37,656.52 +111.19 +0.30 S&P 500 (US) 4,781.58 +6.83 +0.14 NASDAQ (US) 15,099.18 +24.61 +0.16 NYSE (US) 16,898.34 +38.85 +0.23 EURO STOXX 50 (EUR) 4,534.92 +6.54 +0.14 FTSE 100 (UK) 7,732.97 +8.02 +0.10 DAX (GER) 16,755.27 +13.20 +0.08 NIKKEI 225 (JPN) 33,539.62 -141.62 -0.42 TOPIX (JPN) 2,362.02 -3.38 -0.14 HANG SENG INDEX (HK) 17,043.53 +418.69 +2.52 CSI 300 (CHN) 3,414.54 +78.18 +2.34 SH SE COM (CHN) 2,954.70 +40.09 +1.38 KOSPI INDEX (SK) 2,655.28 +41.78 +1.60 MSCI ASIA PACIFIC 167.24 +2.05 +1.24 ASX 200 (AUS) 7,614.28 +53.05 +0.70 ALL ORDINARIES INDX (AUS) 7,852.08 +55.38 +0.71 SENSEX INDEX (IND) 72,335.88 +297.45 +0.41 FBM KLCI 1,457.41 +3.19 +0.22 STRAITS TIMES INDEX (S’PORE) 3,112.50 +4.47 +0.14 WTI (US$/BBL.) 73.54 -0.57 -0.77 BRENT (US$/BBL.) 79.1 -0.55 -0.69 GOLD (COMEX) (US$/T OZ) 2,086.00 -7.10 -0.34 SILVER (COMEX) (US$/T OZ) 24.53 -0.11 -0.41 PLATINUM (US$/T OZ) 998.07 -2.43 -0.24 COPPER (COMEX) (US CENTS/LB.) 392.90 -3.05 -0.78 COPPER 3MO (LME) (US$/MT) 8,690.50 +117.00 +1.36 CORN (US CENTS/BU.) 475.25 -1.25 -0.26 WHEAT (US CENTS/BU.) 623.25 +0.25 +0.04 SOYBEAN OIL (CBOT) (US CENTS/LB.) 48.67 +0.01 +0.02 COCOA (ICE) (US$/MT) 4,280.00 -3.00 -0.07 RUBBER (S’PORE) (US CENTS/KG) 51.20 +1.00 +0.67 World Stocks/Commodities as at 5pm, Dec 28 Bursa Malaysia ends higher for second consecutive day KUALA LUMPUR: Bursa Malaysia closed higher for the second consecutive day yesterday as bargain-hunting activities emerged following the recent sell-off, a dealer said. At 5pm, the FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI (FBM KLCI) closed 3.19 points or 0.22% firmer to 1,457.41 from Wednesday’s close of 1,454.22. The FBM KLCI opened 0.36 of-a-point easier at 1,453.86 and moved between 1,453.06 and 1,459.10 throughout the day. Turnover went up to 4.24 billion units worth RM2.39 billion from 3.29 billion units worth RM2.06 billion on Wednesday. Nevertheless, Public Investment Bank Bhd said the FBM KLCI is anticipated to tread sideways around the 1,455 horizon in the near term, swaying with market sentiment at this juncture. Meanwhile, another dealer said the market movement is likely to be quite slow approaching the year-end, with slow inflow from both retail and institutional investors. “Moreover, despite the upbeat sentiment on Wall Street, some investors like to worry that the market may be overly optimistic, which could lead to disappointment if the US Federal Reserve starts cutting rates later than expected,” he said. Among the heavyweights, Maybank and Petronas Chemicals gained one sen to RM8.91 and RM7.21, respectively. Public Bank expanded three sen to RM4.28, CIMB edged up four sen to RM5.84, and Tenaga Nasional was unchanged at RM10.00. Of the actives, Pelikan advanced 16.5 sen to 33.5 sen, Hong Seng rose half-a-sen to 2.5 sen, Sarawak Cable improved one sen to 40 sen, VSolar up five sen to 22.5 sen, and Minetech eased halfa-sen to 15 sen. On the index board, the FBM 70 Index went down 2.57 points to 14,627.14, the FBM Emas Shariah Index shrank 4.77 points to 11,023.73, while the FBM Emas Index rose 18.02 points to 10,843.62, the FBMT 100 Index advanced 16.67 points to 10,503.07 and the FBM ACE Index added 62.37 points to 5,271.75. Sector-wise, the Plantation Index decreased 1.02 points to 7,017.31, the Property Index eased 0.36 points to 864.16, and the Energy Index weakened 2.21 points to 819.97. Meanwhile, the Industrial Products and Services Index put on 0.25 of-a-point to 172.87, and the Financial Services Index garnered 82.43 points to 16,297.52. The Main Market’s volume widened to 2.83 billion units valued at RM2.06 billion against two billion units valued at RM1.79 billion on Wednesday. Warrants turnover increased to 481.60 million units worth RM64.44 million from 466.22 million units worth RM61.49 million yesterday. The ACE Market’s volume climbed to 913.45 million shares valued at RM265.69 million versus 810.65 million shares valued at RM212.73 million previously. Consumer products and services counters accounted for 540.97 million shares traded on the Main Market, industrial products and services (927.92 million); construction (184.04 million); technology (432.19 million); SPAC (nil); financial services 1,457.41pts Dec 28, 2023
BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE FRIDAY | DEC 29, 2023 26 @thesundaily FOLLOW ON TWITTER Malaysian Paper MARKETS/FROM THE BROKERS SUNBIZ presents extracts of a selection of commentaries and research reports received from stockbrokers on counters that could be of interest to investors. [Compiled by SunBiz Team DISCLAIMER: The information is extracted from stockbrokers’ commentaries and research reports and do not represent the views or opinions of Sun Media Corporation Sdn Bhd. It is not a solicitation, recommendation or an offer to buy or sell the equities featured. Sun Media Corporation shalll not be liable or responsible for any consequences resulting from usage of the information. IN view of the news that Petronas Carigali had recently issued tender documents to selected floating production, storage, and offloading (FPSO) suppliers for the Kelidang ultra-deepwater gas project offshore Brunei, MSC is one of the companies likely considered for the job. An online oil, gas and energy news publication reported that a tender is expected by May 2024, and the development features a FPSO with a gas handling capacity of up to 450 MMscfd, to be leased on a 12-year contract with a three-year option period. Upstream cited industry sources as saying that the proposed floater will be leased on a 12-year charter contract with an option period of three years. Petronas is open to both conversion and redeployment options, but the former is preferred given the lack of relevant spare vessels for use in the region. Companies that are said to be up for the job include Yinson, Bumi Armada, MTC Group, Bluewater, and Shapoorji Pallonji Energy. As Petronas’s equity stake in MISC is 51%, AmInvest Research believes that MISC is well positioned to win the charter contract. Assuming a capex assumption of US$750mil (RM35.71 billion), project IRR of 12%, a WACC of 7.0% and a 60:40 debt-to-equity structure, we estimate this could accrete 3.3% to MISC’s SOP. The research house has maintained its HOLD call on MISC with an unchanged fair value of RM7.81/share based on a sum-of-parts (SOP) valuation. Its fair value reflects a FY24F EV/EBITDA of 8.4x, slightly below its 3-year average of 9x and incorporates a 3% premium from its 4- star ESG rating. MISC currently trades fairly at FY24F EV/EBITDA of 8.9x, close to its 3-year average of 9x. — (Dec 28, 2023) KENANGA Research has reiterated its OVERWEIGHT for the healthcare sector, with KPJ Healthcare Bhd (OP; TP: RM1.56) and IHH Healthcare Bhd (OP; TP: RM7.00) as its top picks. The research house projected IHH’s patient throughput growth and revenue intensity to drive 2024 earnings, propelled by more acute cases, including elective surgeries. “In 2024, we project IHH’s revenue per inpatient growth of 12%−16% (vs. an estimated +19% in 2023 due to low base effect in 2022), inpatient throughput growth of 9%−12% (vs. an estimated +7% in 2023) and bed occupancy rate (BOR) of 65%−73% (vs. an estimated averaging 65% in 2023) for its hospitals in Malaysia, Singapore, India and Turkey. “We believe the key growth factor for its inpatient throughput and BOR would be revenue intensity from a case-mix with more acute cases and medical tourists, the addition of new beds previously constrained by staff shortages which are gradually easing,” it said. The research house said it also likes IHH for its: (i) pricing power as the inelastic demand for private healthcare services allows providers such as IHH to pass on the higher cost amidst rising inflation; and (ii) presence in multiple markets, i.e. Malaysia, Singapore, Turkey and China. Similarly, in 2024, it expected KPJ’s patient throughput would grow at 8% (vs. an estimated 6% in FY23) with BOR at 71% (vs. an estimated 68% in 2023) driven by revenue intensity emanating from the recovery in demand for elective surgeries. The research house said it likes KPJ for its pricing power as a private healthcare provider and its strong market position locally with the largest network of 28 private hospitals as compared to 16 of IHH. — (Dec 28, 2023) ELECTRONIC manufacturing services provider Aurelius Technologies Bhd’s (ATech) posted a slight improvement in its gross profit margin mainly attributed to a better communications and IoT product mix despite a drop in revenue for nine months in the calendar year 2023 (9MCY23). Atech’s 9MCY23 core net profit (CNP) rose 2% YoY to RM25.8 million, driven by effective cost control and lower finance costs. In 9MCY23, revenue declined 12% YoY to RM302.5 million, mainly due to the customers’ aggressive inventory downsizing, leading to lower production volume. Electronic devices (ED) registered a revenue growth (+14% YoY) partly cushioned declines in communication and IoT (C&I)/ semiconductor components (SC) of 16%/2%, respectively. In QoQ comparison, Q3 revenue fell 9% to RM98.8 million, and CNP dropped 68% QoQ to MYR4.7 million, impacted by product sales mix and forex volatility. QoQ, ED outperformed with a 29% sales increase, while C&I/SC experienced contractions of 13%/40%. ATech’s order book (as of 11 Dec) significantly improved to RM473m (vs. RM322m as of Sep) 19, indicating the end of customer inventory destocking activities. We remain optimistic about ATech’s growth, forecasting a c.16% CAGR in core earnings over the next three years. Signs of recovery from customer destocking headwinds are evident, and earnings growth will be supported by new model wins and the acquisition of new customers, backed by the group’s expansion initiatives. Maybank IBG Research maintains a BUY on ATech, and trimmed its TP by 3% to RM3.05 (20x PER CY25E) from RM3.13 (20x PER CY24E). — (Dec 28, 2023) FOREIGN CURRENCY SELLING TT/OD BUYING TT BUYING OD 1 US Dollar 4.684 4.548 4.538 1 Australian Dollar 3.231 3.103 3.087 1 Brunei Dollar 3.551 3.447 3.439 1 Canadian Dollar 3.546 3.450 3.438 1 Euro 5.216 5.045 5.025 1 New Zealand Dollar 2.991 2.879 2.863 1 Singapore Dollar 3.551 3.447 3.439 1 Sterling Pound 6.009 5.816 5.796 1 Swiss Franc 5.548 5.420 5.405 100 UAE Dirham 129.090 122.360 122.160 100 Bangladesh Taka 4.350 4.065 3.865 100 Chinese Renminbi 66.070 63.260 N/A 100 Danish Krone 71.710 65.970 65.770 100 Hongkong Dollar 60.630 57.600 57.400 100 Indian Rupee 5.720 5.370 5.170 100 Indonesian Rupiah 0.031 0.028 0.023 100 Japanese Yen 3.319 3.213 3.203 100 New Taiwan Dollar N/A N/A N/A 100 Norwegian Krone 47.670 43.820 43.620 100 Pakistan Rupee 1.690 1.580 1.380 100 Philippine Peso 8.550 8.050 7.850 100 Qatar Riyal 129.990 123.400 123.200 100 Saudi Riyal 126.330 119.930 119.730 100 South Africa Rand 26.360 23.790 23.590 100 Sri Lanka Rupee 1.490 1.360 1.160 100 Swedish Krona 48.650 44.280 44.080 100 Thai Baht 14.280 12.670 12.270 Exchange Rates Source: Malayan Banking Bhd/Bernama Ringgit continues uptrend against dollar KUALA LUMPUR: The ringgit extended its uptrend to close higher against the US dollar yesterday on positive sentiment anticipating a rate cut in the United States next year, an analyst said. At 6pm, the ringgit rose to 4.6055/6125 against the greenback from Wednesday’s close of 4.6275/6330. Bank Muamalat Malaysia Bhd chief economist Dr Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid said the strong rally in the US bond markets, which saw a sharper decline in the US Treasury yields, suggests that the anticipation of a rate cut in the US is gaining momentum. “This has led to the weaker US Dollar Index (DXY) which has fallen to around 100 points. “Consequently, the ringgit appreciated against the US dollar to RM4.6082. This indicates that the ringgit versus greenback is moving closer to its immediate support of RM4.5778,” he told Bernama. Meanwhile, the ringgit was traded lower against a basket of major currencies. It depreciated against the Japanese yen to 3.2723/2776 from 3.2453/2494 on Wednesday, fell against the euro to 5.1242/1323 from 5.1152/1213, and declined vis-a-vis the British pound to 5.8932/9022 from 5.8862/8932. The ringgit was traded higher against Asean currencies amid depreciating against the Thai baht to 13.4979/5260 from 13.4559/4790 Wednesday. It appreciated vis-a-vis the Singapore dollar to 3.4972/5031 from 3.5001/5045, improved against the Philippine peso to 8.30/8.31 from 8.31/8.33 and edged up against the Indonesian rupiah to 298.6/299.3 from 299.8/300.4 previously. — Bernama ‘Bullish catalysts likely to lift FBM KLCI to 1,700 next year’ KUALA LUMPUR: The prospect of a stronger gross domestic product (GDP) growth, together with a firmer ringgit and more foreign investments coming into Malaysia, will likely push the FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI (FBM KLCI) to the 1,700 level next year. Inter-Pacific Asset Management Sdn Bhd (IPAM) chief economist and fund manager Datuk Dr Nazri Khan said given the reduction in market volatility, corporate earnings growth is also expected to improve as investors’ confidence and sentiment have strengthened in the second half of 2023. “We also do not see interest rates and inflation being a threat any longer next year, as we think the interest rate has peaked. We do not foresee Bank Negara Malaysia increasing interest rates in 2024 and instead expect it to hold the Overnight Policy Rate at 3.00%,” he told Bernama. He said sectors that are expected to benefit most next year are banking, plantation and property as well as technology under the digital economy. On GDP growth, he said it is expected to hit around 4.5% next year, mainly driven by the recovery in global trade and foreign investments. Elaborating on the ringgit, he said the local currency is anticipated to strengthen to about 4.3 to 4.4 against the US dollar by the end of next year, supported by the cutting of interest rates by the US, and therefore would continue to favour Malaysia’s foreign investments flows. “This will be the biggest catalyst in improving sentiment for the nation and supporting the local equity market to rise to around 1,700 (FBM KLCI) next year,” he said. Aurelius Technologies Bhd BUY. TARGET PRICE: RM3.05 Healthcare sector OVERWEIGHT MISC Bhd HOLD. FAIR VALUE: RM7.81 Source: AmInvest Research Source : Kenanga Research Source: Maybank IBG Research Dec 28, 2023: RM7.30 Dec 28, 2023: RM2.58
IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF MINI MOTORS SDN. BHD. [197901008307 (52593-V)] (In Members’ Voluntary Winding Up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT pursuant to Section 439(2)(b) of the Companies Act 2016 that the Resolution set out below was duly passed by the member of the Company on 28th December 2023: SPECIAL RESOLUTION – MEMBERS’ VOLUNTARY WINDING UP THAT pursuant to Section 439(1)(b) of the Companies Act 2016, the Company be wound up voluntarily and that Ms. Tan Boon Ting of Lot 85, Jalan Portland, Tasek Industrial Estate, 31400 Ipoh, Perak Darul Ridzuan be and is hereby appointed Liquidator for the purposes of such winding up and the Liquidator be hereby authorised to make distribution in specie of the Company’s assets and to exercise the powers of the Liquidator as set out in Section 456 of the Companies Act 2016 and the Eleventh Schedule thereto. Dated this 29th December 2023. Lim Ee Young Director IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF MINI MOTORS SDN. BHD. [197901008307 (52593-V)] (In Members’ Voluntary Winding Up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the creditors of the Company which is being wound up voluntarily, are required on or before 29th January 2024, to send their names and addresses with particulars of their debts or claims and the names and addresses of their solicitors (if any) to the undersigned Liquidator of the Company; and if so required by notice in writing from the Liquidator, either by their solicitors or personally, to come in and prove their debts or claims at such time and place as shall be specified in such notice, or in default thereof, they will be excluded from the benefits of any distribution made before such debts or claims are proved. Dated this 29th December 2023. Tan Boon Ting Liquidator IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF SIRIWAN THAI SEAFOOD RESTAURANT SDN. BHD. (Registration No.: 200301031094/ 633515-A) (IN MEMBERS’ VOLUNTARY WINDING-UP) NOTICE OF FINAL MEETING Notice is hereby given that pursuant to Section 459(2) of the Companies Act, 2016 the Final General Meeting of the members of the company will be held at No. 7079, 1st Floor, Jalan Kampung Gajah, 12200 Butterworth, Pulau Pinang, on 29th January 2024 at 10.00 a.m. for the following purpose: 1. To receive and consider the Liquidator’s Final Accounts showing the winding up has been conducted and to receive any explanation thereon; and 2. To resolve under Section 518(3) (b) of the Companies Act 2016, that the books, accounts and documents of the Company shall be destroyed after the expiration of 3 months from the date of the dissolution of the company. LAU THENG CHIM Liquidator Dated this 29th December 2023 Proxies: A member of the Company entitled to attend and vote at the above meeting may appoint a proxy to attend and vote in his behalf and such proxy need not be members of the Company. The instrument appointing a proxy must be deposited at the Registered Office at least 48 hours before the time appointed for holding the meeting or adjourned meeting. 322 Notices 322 Notices IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF CERMAI YAKIN SDN. BHD. REGISTRATION NO: 200301017184 (619604-H) (IN MEMBERS’ VOLUNTARY WINDING-UP) NOTICE OF FINAL MEETING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT pursuant to Section 459 of the Companies Act, 2016, the Final Meeting of the Members of the abovenamed Company will be held at B-3-8, 3rd Floor, No. 42, Persiaran Greentown 1, Greentown Business Centre, 30450 Ipoh, Perak Darul Ridzuan on Wednesday, 31st January, 2024 at 10.00 a.m. for the following purposes: - AGENDA 1. To receive and consider the Liquidator’s Final Accounts showing how the winding up has been conducted and to receive any explanations thereon and 2. To resolve, under Section 518(3)(b) of the Companies Act, 2016, that the books, accounts and documents of the Company shall be destroyed after the expiration of three (3) months from the date of the Final Meeting. LEONG PAK KONG (LS0002927) SSM PC No. 201908000802 Liquidator Dated: 29th December, 2023 Note: 1. A member entitled to attend and vote at the above meeting may appoint a proxy to attend and vote on their behalf and such proxy need not be a member of the Company. 2. The instrument appointing a proxy must be lodged with the Liquidator at B-3-8, 3rd Floor, No. 42, Persiaran Greentown 1, Greentown Business Centre, 30450 Ipoh, Perak Darul Ridzuan not less than 48 hours before the time set for holding the meeting. If you feel you have what it takes, to join us in the interesting media industry, send your resume (together with a photo of you) via email to [email protected] You can call us at +603 7784 6688 theSun is published by Sun Media Corporation Sdn Bhd Lot 6, Level 4, Jalan 51/217, 46050 Petaling Jaya, Selangor. MARKETING EXECUTIVE Responsibilities 1. Handle both local & outstation Agents and Vendors. 2. Handle sales of newspaper-corporate sales e.g.: Hospital, Hotels, etc. 3. Actively engage in outbound sales activities to acquire new newspaper subscribers. Requirements 1. Minimum Diploma in Business, Marketing, Communications, or related field with at least 2 years of experience. 2. Proven experience in sales, preferably in the media or publishing industry would be an advantage 3. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. 4. Excellent selling, communication and negotiation skills. Malaysian Paper MEDIA SALES REPRESENTATIVE / AGENT (FREELANCE) Requirements 1. Minimum 1 year sales experience in newspaper bulk sales and digital advertising 2. Attractice commision package and incentive 3. Able to start immediately 4. Central, Nothern, Southern, East Coast and Sabah/Sarawak 302 Jobs IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF Z DESIGN MY SDN. BHD. (Registration No. 201901004070(1313397-H)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding Up) At a General Meeting of the abovenamed Company duly convened and held on 22nd December 2023, the following resolutions was duly passed:- “THAT pursuant to Section 439(1)(b) of the Companies Act 2016, the Company be wound up voluntarily.” “THAT the Liquidator may exercise any powers in accordance with Section 456 and Eleventh Schedule of the Companies Act 2016.” “THAT in accordance with the Articles of Association of the Company, the Liquidator may distribute to the members in kind the whole or any part of the assets of the Company.” BASYIRAH BINTI ANUAR Chairman Dated this 29th day of December, 2023. IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF Z DESIGN MY SDN. BHD. (Registration No. 201901004070(1313397-H)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding Up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the creditors of the abovementioned Company, which is being wound up voluntarily, are required on or before 29th January 2024 to send in their names and addresses with particulars of their debts or claim and the names and addresses of their solicitors (if any) to the undersigned, the Liquidator of the said Company; and if so required by notice in writing from the said Liquidator, are, by their solicitors 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 benefit of any distribution made before such debts or claims are proved. LEE EWE HOCK Liquidator Wisma Golden Eagle Realty 11th Floor, South Block No 142-A, Jalan Ampang 50450 Kuala Lumpur Tel: +60 3 2702 5222 Dated this 29th day of December, 2023. NOTICE IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF IST BUILDING PRODUCTS SDN BHD [Company Registration No: 198501009659 (142110-H)] (In Members’ Voluntary Winding Up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that an Extraordinary General Meeting of the Company held at Level 32, The Gardens South Tower, Mid Valley City, Lingkaran Syed Putra, 59200 Kuala Lumpur on the 26th day of December 2023, the following resolutions was duly passed. “THAT the Company be and is hereby woundup by way of voluntary winding-up pursuant to Section 439(1)(b) of the Companies Act 2016 (“Act”), AND THAT the appointed liquidator be and is hereby authorised, under Section 456 of the Act, to exercise any power and duty specified under the Eleventh Schedule in a voluntary winding up, AND THAT the appointed liquidator be and is hereby authorised to distribute to the members of the Company in cash and/or in specie the surplus assets of the Company as the appointed liquidator may determine, AND THAT the appointed liquidator be and is hereby authorised to take such steps, make such arrangements, do all such acts and things and exercise such discretion in connection with, relating to or arising from the matters contemplated herein, as he may from time to time consider fit, necessary, desirable or expedient to give effects to such matters and this resolution. THAT Mr Wong Heng Boon of Wisma Laxton, 9-3, Jalan Desa, Taman Desa, 58100 Kuala Lumpur, be and is hereby appointed Liquidator of the Company for the purpose of such winding-up and that the remuneration of the said Liquidator is to be agreed upon between the Liquidator and the Directors of the Company.” Dated this 29th December 2023 Tan Yee Seng Director Kuala Lumpur NOTICE IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF IST BUILDING PRODUCTS SDN BHD [Company Registration No: 198501009659 (142110-H)] (In Members’ Voluntary Winding Up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the creditors of IST Building Products Sdn Bhd which is under members’ voluntary winding up, are required on or before 28th January 2024 to send their names and addresses with particulars of their debts and claims and the names and addresses of the solicitors (if any) to the undersigned Liquidator at Wisma Laxton, 9-3 Jalan Desa, Taman Desa, 58100 Kuala Lumpur, and if so required by notice in writing from the Liquidator, or by their solicitors or personally required to come in and prove their said debts and claims at such time and place as shall be specified in such notice, or in default thereof they will be excluded from the benefit of any distribution made before such debts and claims are proved. Dated this 29th December 2023 Wong Heng Boon Liquidator Kuala Lumpur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ffl (;3(5,(1&(5(48,5(0(176ffl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flflfl WKH6XQLVSXEOLVKHGE\6XQ0HGLD&RUSRUDWLRQ6GQ%KG /RW/HYHO-DODQ3HWDOLQJ-D\D6HODQJRU 322 Notices 322 Notices CALL TO PLACE CLASSIFIED ADS MS. SHOBA T 03 7784 8888 F 03 7784 4424 SCAN ME FRIDAY DEC 29, 2023
SPORTS SPORTS FRIDAY | DEC 29, 2023 28 MORE than two decades after bursting on the scene, the sun is setting on Rafael Nadal’s storied career with the Spanish gladiator hoping his creaking body can hold up long enough to see out the season. The 37-year-old returns to the courts in Brisbane this week, almost a year since he last played professionally before an injury curse that has long plagued him returned with a vengeance. It has been a recurring theme of a recordbreaking career which has brought 22 Grand Slam titles and global respect, a painful by-product of his all-action, brutal-hitting style that has led to struggles with serious knee, wrist and foot problems. His most recent setback, at the 2023 Australian Open, resulted in two rounds of hip surgery and fears that he would never grace the courts again. But Nadal didn’t want it to end like that, and he has battled back for what he admits is likely his last season, to say goodbye to the fans, “enjoy myself again”, but also be competitive. “I don’t know at what level (I can play at), I /thesuntelegram FOLLOW ON TELEGRAM Malaysian Paper 322 Notices 322 Notices Rafa’s last hurrah Spaniard returns from injury for another swing and to say goodbye to fans Djokovic, Alcaraz have no doubt Nadal will reach top level NOVAK DJOKOVIC and Carlos Alcaraz expect Rafa Nadal to be at his competitive best at the Australian Open next month despite a hip injury that wiped out the veteran Spaniard’s 2023 season. Nadal suffered a muscle issue at Melbourne Park in January that required surgery and will return at Brisbane this weekend before playing in the Jan. 14-28 Australian Open where he won two of his 22 Grand Slam titles. The 37-year-old expects to retire in 2024 with a series of injuries limiting his appearances on the circuit but has stepped up his training in recent weeks and 24-times Grand Slam champion Djokovic said his great rival cannot be written off just yet. “I always expect him to play at his best, to be honest,” Djokovic said before his 4-6, 6-4, 6- 4 defeat by Alcaraz in an exhibition match in Riyadh on Wednesday. “Many times they’ve signed him out, they’ve done that with me as well. But we’ve proved them wrong. “He’s not a kind of a player who will come back to the tour just to play, let’s say, on a medium level, play a few matches. “He wants to win titles, he wants to be the best, that’s why he is who he is: a legend of our sport. I’m sure his training and preparation is done with an intention to win a Grand Slam.” Alcaraz, who has lost two of his three meetings with Nadal, said his compatriot was at a 100% after watching videos of him practising. “I hear from other players that practised with Rafa in these past weeks and they said he’s going to return to his good level. His top level,” Alcaraz said. – Reuters NOVAK DJOKOVIC showed he has the ultimate respect for Carlos Alcaraz after being defeated in the Riyadh Season Tennis Cup. Djokovic took the first set 6-4 but was not at his best as lost the next two by the same score. The pair are the top two ranked players at the Australian Open, which kicks off in a little over two weeks. That means they could meet in the final of the season-opening Grand Slam. Alcaraz will be hoping this off-season victory lays a marker that he should not be underestimated in Melbourne, where Djokovic has won 10 of his 24 Major titles. And the Serbian showed his class by backing his younger foe to have a similarly illustrious career. “It’s fantastic to have Alcaraz in our sport,” Djokovic said. “He is one of the leaders of this sport today and he is going to carry our sport for the next 10 to 15 years, we are going to see a lot of him. Tennis is in good hands.” The Wimbledon champion also paid an equally classy message to Djokovic, saying: “It’s incredible to share the court with him in this event and in official tournaments. I am learning from him. “After watching him win the big tournaments I always dreamed about being in this position and playing against him face to face. “I am really happy to play with him and hopefully I can keep going. He seems like he is 20 so we are going to share the court more than once. I want to congratulate him and thank him for playing this match with me.” The lucrative exhibition clash was played in front of Saudi royalty and tickets were like goldust. “I have enjoyed my time here in Riyhad, not only on the court but off the court as well. I have not been able to walk around here but I would love to. Hopefully it is not the last time I get to come here and play in front of you,” Alcaraz said. – Express Newspapers Djoker shows true colours after Alcaraz defeat Spain’s Rafael Nadal attends a training session ahead of the Brisbane International yesterday. – AFPPIX don’t know what to expect, I have no idea, but I don’t care right now,” Nadal said this month, looking ahead to 2024. “I’m just happy to be back and with great excitement to make the effort that is necessary to have fun, and I believe that I will be competitive.” His coach Carlos Moya gave an insight into how hard it had been to get to this point, admitting there were times when he thought Nadal’s career was over. “When you go through a process like this operation… at the end of the day, going under the knife is really a last resort to try and make a comeback and retire on court,” Moya told the ATP Tour website last week. “Aware of those risks, he gave it a go because it was the only option for him if he wanted to come back. “It has not been a bed of roses, far from it. It’s been a winding, tortuous road, with many curves.” Whether Nadal makes it through 2024 will depend on how he manages himself. But Moya admitted it was hard to rein in his natural competitiveness. “As much as we try to get that into his head and make him see it, when he steps on a tennis court, he’s a competitive animal,” he said. “A large part of my work and that of the team has been to stop him. Stop him in terms of the load of training, stop him in terms of hours of work, intensity.” In preparation for the Brisbane International and the Australian Open, Nadal spent time at his academy in Kuwait in search of temperatures and conditions similar to those he will encounter in Australia. He trained with fast-rising French teen Arthur Fils and Moya said it went “much better than he could have hoped”. “Rafa went there thinking that he wouldn’t be competitive, that he wouldn’t be good enough, and he’s left convinced that it might be possible.” – AFP
SPORTS SPORTS FRIDAY | DEC 29, 2023 29 Contact theSun's Sales & Marketing team to book your advertising space. Malaysian Paper 03-7784 6688 [email protected] Advertise with us on Chinese New Year Special on JAN 26, 2024 Chinese New Year SPECIAL Let’s welcome the Year of the Dragon with us! In the Chinese culture, the dragon represents good luck, strength and health, and those are what we wish for you, while you check out our Chinese New Year supplement, to let yourself be aware of the current and upcoming festive sales, deals and promotions. PUBLICATION DATE 26 JANUARY, 2024 (Friday) BOOKING DEADLINE 12 JANUARY, 2024 (Friday) Expensive backtrack option Huge fee Glazers would have to pay Ratcliffe if they change their mind over MU sale MANCHESTER UNITED and the Glazer family will have to pay Sir Jim Ratcliffe up to US$66 million (RM304m) if they terminate the agreement for him to take a minority share in the club. The petrochemicals billionaire reached an agreement to buy a 25% stake in the club for £1.3 billion (RM7.6b) – which will become 29% when his US$300m (RM1.4b) investment into the infrastructure of United is converted into more shares. The deal is subject to regulatory approvals, including from the Premier League, which will take up to eight weeks. But if United and the Glazer family pull the plug on the deal in the meantime, they will have to pay Ratcliffe US$48m (RM221m) plus an amount not to exceed US$18m (RM83m) to cover his expenses within three business days as a termination fee. In other clauses of the contract between the various parties, Ratcliffe has first option to buy if the Glazers, whose stake will be reduced to 49% of the club, are selling more of their shares within a year. But if the Glazers conclude a full sale of the club within 18 months, the Ineos boss would be obliged to sell his shares for US$33 (RM152) each, the price he paid for them. United will be unable to complete transfers or to sack manager Erik ten Hag or football director John Murtough without consulting with Ratcliffe and Ineos. The 71-year-old United fan will receive two seats on the board of the club, which he will delegate to former Juventus CEO Jean-Claude Blanc and the cycling boss Sir Dave Brailsford, and two on the board of the PLC, which will go to Ineos chief financial officer John Reece and Rob Nevin, the chairman of Ineos Sport. Ratcliffe, who will have the right to decide if dividends are paid to shareholders in the next three years, is buying his stake in United through a private company, Trawlers Ltd, named after Eric Cantona’s famous 1995 quote about seagulls. He is funding it with his personal wealth, rather than adding debt to United. Brailsford saw the best and worst of United during the 3-2 win over Aston Villa on Tuesday. Brailsford sat in the director’s box for the muchneeded victory, signalling a fresh start that Ten Hag said he welcomes. “We are looking forward, I think it’s positive for the club that they are stepping in,” Ten Hag told reporters. “They have a lot of experience in sport at the highest level, F1, the cycling team, other football clubs, so it can only help and support us to get our targets. “So we are looking forward. They want to work with us and we want to work with them.” – The Independent Arsenal boss Arteta open to January signings MIKEL ARTETA has said Arsenal are ready to enter the January transfer market should their squad remain as “exposed” in recent times. Thomas Partey, Jurrien Timber, Fabio Vieira and Takehiro Tomiyasu are all sidelined, however, while Arsenal’s Kai Havertz is banned following five yellow cards so far this season. Arsenal spent more than £200 million (RM1.16b) recruiting new players to the Emirates ahead of the current campaign, including their £105m (RM6.9m) club-record signing of Declan Rice from the Hammers. The England midfielder was joined at the Emirates Stadium by Havertz and Timber after Arsenal went on a spending spree, having missed out on the Premier League title despite being top for 248 days last season. Arsenal manager Arteta has no certainty over when his injured quartet will be back in action and with a packed festive fixture schedule testing the depth of all Premier League squads, the Spaniard is prepared to bolster the Gunners’ squad during next month’s transfer window. “At the moment, it is very difficult. We are really short,” Arteta said. “We have positions that we have been very exposed for the last six weeks and hopefully we are going to get players back. In what condition and when? “That’s a question mark and as well because we have some long-term injuries still for certain players that give us a lot of versatility and that’s an issue.” Arteta added: “We have certain targets, ideas if things happen. As well, we don’t know how the squad is going to look in two weeks’ time and you have to be always prepared for that. “But it is a very, very tricky market that shifts very quickly and it is quite unpredictable as well and you have to be prepared. We will be prepared and we will try to make the right calls. “If there is something that we can (do to) improve the squad and that needs appear, and we cannot fulfil it with players here, we are always going to be open to do that because we want to be stronger.” – AFP BRENTFORD boss Thomas Frank told Nathan Collins he will never have a worse match after his horror show in the 4-1 defeat against the defender’s former club Wolves. Collins arguably had his best game for Wolves – but unfortunately the centrehalf left Molineux to join Brentford in June. The Bees’ record signing endured a nightmare evening, handing Wanderers two goals with terrible passes, as Brentford slipped to a fourth straight defeat. “I told him it will never be worse than this, with a smile on my face,” said Frank. “He’s been a very positive player for us this season, he’s performed very well for us. It happens. “Tonight he will be down but tomorrow it’s a fact that the sun will rise again. I expect him to walk into training with his head held high.” Brentford could soon be l o o k i n g n e r v o u s l y over their shoulders at t h e r e l e g a t i o n battle after a sixth defeat in seven matches left them just four points above Luton in 18th. “This is a good club, a good team and we have character in abundance and we’ll go again,” added Frank. “A big thing is to stay calm and believe in the work we do and the processes. That’s what we’ve done in the past and that will get us out of this minor run of poor results.” Victory completed a festive double for Wolves following their Christmas Eve home win over Chelsea, and was their first success in London in 15 attempts. “I’m really pleased,” said boss Gary O’Neil. “Although we didn’t have loads of control of the ball we were able to punish them.” The raucous travelling support sung O’Neil’s name throughout the second half. He added: “The fans have been incredible for me and I have unbelievable respect for the fans. “I’m sure if we keep winning 4-1 they’ll keep singing my name. We’ve had two fantastic results for them to enjoy over the festive period.” – The Independent █ BY RICHARD JOLLY & LORI EWING Frank backs Collins after llins after horror show █ BY ANDY SIMS Thomas Frank (left) and Nathan Collins. – AFPPIX
SPORTS SPORTS FRIDAY | DEC 29, 2023 30 Noni spot on for Blues Pochettino hails Chelsea match-winner Madueke’s attitude after Palace win MAURICIO POCHETTINO praised match-winner Noni Madueke’s determination to prove his Chelsea worth after he came off the bench to score a late penalty in his side’s 2- 1 win over Crystal Palace at Stamford Bridge. Roy Hodgson’s side looked like they had done enough to earn a deserved point as the game ticked into its final moments, until the result turned after a clumsy challenge made by Eberechi Eze, leaving a leg out on the edge of the box for Madueke to tumble over. A pitch-side VAR review was required but it seemed a straightforward call for referee Michael Salisbury, who awarded a penalty from which the substitute Madueke, who had previously made only seven League appearances under Pochettino, coolly stroked home the winner. Earlier, Michael Olise had scored a goal worthy of a claiming a draw, lashing home on the half-volley from Jordan Ayew’s pinpoint ball on the stroke of half-time. Mykhailo Mudryk’s 13th-minute strike, his fourth of the season and second in eight days, had given Chelsea a lead for which they were good value, and the Ukrainian could have extended it had he not shot straight at Dean Henderson from Nicolas Jackson’s clever backheel. Pochettino’s side looked more dangerous in attack than in recent weeks, finally turning possession into clear chances, and afterwards the manager pointed towards the impact of Madueke in turning frustration at a lack of game time into affirmative action. “He (Madueke) played free,” said the manager. “He did what we needed in this moment. I liked it because he showed he was upset with me, disappointed with me because he didn’t play too much. (He thought) ‘Now I’m going to show the coach he can trust in me’. “We are not a charity, we are a football club. We need to perform. We are here to try and help the players to perform. “Sometimes we need to be tough. We need to show the reality. Sometimes we need to put (the players) in front of the mirror and say ‘come on, that is not the player that is going to perform’. “We have an amazing group, but they need to realise that to compete at Chelsea is not (the same) as to compete at another club. “It’s about winning, about lifting trophies and making history. It’s about respecting the history of the club. “They need to show me that I can trust them. The mentality is really important. You can not only play with you quality. You have to have quality, but if you don’t have the right mentality and approach every single day, it’s difficult to perform.” Chelsea have now won three in a row in all competitions at home, though that run has been cut with four consecutive defeats on the road. Victory meant the team climbed back into the top half of the table, however, there remains a 14-point gap to the Champions League places. – The Independent Howe puts faltering Newcastle stars on notice EDDIE HOWE has warned his Newcastle squad that no-one is assured of a place in the team as he looks to halt a decline in the Magpies’ form. Tuesday’s 3-1 loss at home at Nottingham Forest in the Premier League was Newcastle’s fifth defeat in seven games across all competitions, a run that has included the end of their first Champions League campaign in two decades and the finish of their bid to make a second successive appearance in the League Cup final. A programme of 10 games in 30 days in December stretched a Newcastle squad beset by injuries, with Howe hoping to have several players back in action soon, although he is ready to enter the January transfer window. “I’ll be prepared to make any change that I think can benefit either the performance or the result and of course players are accountable for what they deliver,” Howe said. “No amount of credit in the bank is big enough, you have to earn everything you get from the game. I’m a firm believer in that, so players know they have to perform and we have to change our shortterm form for sure.” Howe, who has overseen Newcastle’s rise since taking charge in 2021 and retains the backing of the club’s Saudi owners, added that mental fatigue has taken a toll on his squad. “The difficulty for the players that have played the majority of the minutes in recent weeks has been they just haven’t been on the grass,” he said. “They have been in between games, of course, resting and then building up for another game three days later, and possibly we’ve suffered from not having that training ground time. “That’s the schedule, we knew that that was going to be the case, but I just think that our inability to rotate the team has maybe caught up with us in that respect.” – AFP CRYSTAL PALACE boss Roy Hodgson admits defeat at Chelsea was tough to take. A final minute penalty converted by Noni Madueke proved the winner as Chelsea won 2-1 on the night. Palace have not won since Nov. 4 and Hodgson’s side are now just three points above third-bottom Luton Town, who have played one game fewer. They may have been second-best for much of the match, but the Eagles still had several opportunities after the restart and had more shots overall than their hosts. “I think the team’s performance meant it was a tough pill to swallow,“ Hodgson told BBC Match of the Day. “We’re near the bottom of table but the fact is we have had a difficult run of games.” Palace need to get back to winning ways and quickly. They are eight League matches without a victory (D3 L5), their longest run without a win under Hodgson since an eight-game streak in June and July, 2020. “As far as I am concerned there are 38 games in a season and we’ve played half of them,“ added the Palace boss. “Are we good enough? Do we have good enough players? I have every confidence the team will get victories.” Hodgson also took issue with the VAR decision to award Chelsea the late penalty at Stamford Bridge. “When it’s taken away from you by a referee in a studio somewhere makes it even harder. It’s one of those situations where I can understand a penalty can be given. “This is football life. I accept it. We’re wasting our time talking about it. Every time there is a decision that can be questioned it is questioned. “Throughout the 90 minutes I didn’t think for one moment we were inferior. “I’m sad at the moment because I think I should be sitting here with at least one point more.” – The Independent/Agencies Defeat tough to accept, says Hodgson █ BY ROBERT OCONNOR MATCH-BY-MATCH facts and statistics ahead of the next round of English Premier League fixture (all in Malaysian time/11pm unless stated): TOMORROW Luton vs Chelsea (8.30pm) – Away win Chelsea have 20 wins against Luton overall (D12 L14). The Hatters last defeated Chelsea in 1991, winning 2-0 in a top-flight clash. The Blues beat Luton 3- 0 when the sides met at Stamford Bridge in August. Crystal Palace vs Brentford – Home win The last five matches between Palace and Brentford have ended in draws, including a 1-1 draw when they last met in August. Brentford’s last win at Palace came 66 years ago in a third-tier match in the 1956- 57 season. Palace have won 17 games in this fixture (D12 L14). Man City vs Sheffield United – Home win The Blades are looking for their first Premier League win over City in their 12th attempt while City have won five of their last six League meetings with United by a one-goal margin. United’s last away win over City was a 3-2 victory in a second-tier clash in 1987. Aston Villa vs Burnley – Home win Villa’s last home win over Burnley came in October 2010 in the League Cup, when they won 2-1. The Villans are unbeaten at home this season, winning eight and drawing one of their nine League matches at Villa Park and manager Unai Emery has a 100% record against Burnley, beating them four times in four meetings. Wolves vs Everton – Home win Everton have lost four of their last five League meetings with Wolves (D1), who have won three of their last four home League games (D1). Toffees striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin has failed to score in five appearances against Wolves. SUNDAY Nottm Forest vs Man Utd (1.30am) – Home win Rasmus Hojlund, 20, scored his first League goal on Tuesday against Villa since his move to United in August. Forest forwards Anthony Elanga and Chris Wood have the joint best assist-to-scorer combinations in the League this season (four goals). Forest won a Premier League game against Newcastle for the first time in the competition’s history when they beat them 3-1 on Tuesday. Fulham vs Arsenal (10pm) – Away win Gabriel Magalhaes is the highest scoring defender in the League since he joined Arsenal in September 2020 (11 goals). The Gunners’ Kai Havertz will miss the game at Craven Cottage game through suspension. Fulham have lost four consecutive away League matches while conceding three-plus goals in each game for the first time since March 1969. Tottenham vs Bournemouth (10pm) – Home win Only Manchester City’s Erling Haaland (14) has more goals than Bournemouth forward Dominic Solanke (12) this season. Andoni Iraola’s Bournemouth have won their last four League games – the longest active winning run in the division. Tottenham’s Richarlison has four goals in his last three League games, one more than in his previous 40 appearances. TUESDAY Liverpool vs Newcastle (4am) – Home win Kieran Trippier is among three players to register a hattrick of assists in a match this season. Magpies’ forward Alexander Isak has scored in four of his six home :eague starts this season. The Reds are unbeaten in their last 14 meetings with Newcastle. WEDNESDAY West Ham vs Brighton (3.30am) – Home win West Ham extended their unbeaten run at the London Stadium to seven games in all competitions with a 2-0 win over Manchester United on Saturday. Jarrod Bowen has scored 11 Premier League goals this season, the joint-most by a West Ham player before Christmas in the competition. Brighton have come from behind to secure at least a point in three of their last four League matches (W1, D2). Reuters PREMIER LEAGUE PREVIEWS & PREDICTIONS Chelsea’s Noni Madueke (left) celebrates scoring his team’s second goal with teammates during yesterday’s English Premier League match against Crystal Palace at Stamford Bridge. – REUTERSPIX
SPORTS SPORTS FRIDAY | DEC 29, 2023 31 TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR’S Son Heung-min was named in South Korea’s Asian Cup squad yesterday and coach Jurgen Klinsmann said it was “about time” they ended their 64-year continental title drought. Wolves forward Hwang Hee-chan, who scored his 10th Premier League goal of the season against Brentford on Wednesday, was also among Klinsmann’s 26-man selection for the tournament, which kicks off in Qatar on Jan 12. Son will captain a squad that includes Bayern Munich defender Kim Min-jae and 22-year-old Paris Saint-Germain attacking midfielder Lee Kang-in. South Korea have been drawn in Group E and will face Malaysia, Jordan and Bahrain in the first round. They lost 1-0 to eventual champions Qatar in the quarterfinals of the 2019 Asian Cup in the United Arab Emirates. Klinsmann, a World Cup winner with Germany in 1990, will have one of the strongest squads in the tournament in Qatar and he said he could “see it in their eyes that they are hungry for it”. “A competition like this is about timing,“ said Klinsmann, whose team will face Bahrain in their group stage opener on Jan 15 before taking on Jordan and Malaysia. “You want your players to peak exactly at this time, when this tournament happens. “I have a good feeling because they’re doing well at their clubs,” he said. “They’re healthy, they’re fit, they’re ambitious and they’re very hungry. This is the foundation for playing a good tournament. Son will be appearing at his fourth Asian Cup and was part of the South Korea team that lost to hosts Australia in the 2015 final. Lee is also making a splash after moving to Paris from Mallorca in the summer, and Klinsmann described him as “a flower that starts to bloom”. “We have a lot of different pieces in that roster and that makes us one of the favourites for the Asian Cup,” said Klinsmann. “We have to fine tune these elements over the next couple of weeks and then go into the tournament with confidence. “Once the tournament starts it all needs to fall into place and you need a little bit of luck too. “It’s 64 years, and 64 years is a long time for Korea, so it’s about time we get this done.” – AFP/Reuters ‘I’m very excited’ Morales never expected to represent Malaysia in Doha Son ‘ready’ to win Asian Cup ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE: Brentford 1 (Wissa 16) Wolves 4 (Lemina 13, Hwang 14, 28, Bellegarde 79), Chelsea 2 (Mudryk 13, Madueke 89-pen) Crystal Palace 1 (Olise 45+1), Everton 1 (Harrison 29) Manchester City 3 (Foden 53, Alvarez 64- pen, Silva 86). P W D L F A Pts Liverpool 19 12 6 1 39 16 42 Arsenal 18 12 4 2 36 16 40 Aston Villa 19 12 3 4 40 25 39 Man City 18 11 4 3 43 21 37 Tottenham 18 11 3 4 37 24 36 Man Utd 19 10 1 8 21 25 31 West Ham 18 9 3 6 31 30 30 Newcastle 19 9 2 8 37 25 29 Brighton 18 7 6 5 34 31 27 Chelsea 19 7 4 8 31 29 25 Wolves 19 7 4 8 27 31 25 Bournemouth 18 7 4 7 27 32 25 Fulham 19 6 3 10 26 34 21 Brentford 18 5 4 9 25 28 19 Crystal Palace 19 4 6 9 19 28 18 Nottm Forest 19 4 5 10 22 34 17 Everton 19 8 2 9 24 25 16 Luton 18 4 3 11 21 34 15 Burnley 19 3 2 14 18 38 11 Sheff Utd 19 2 3 14 15 47 9 RESULTS & STANDINGS TOUCHLINES NEWCASTLE UNITED are confident they can agree a deal to sign England midfielder Kalvin Phillips from Manchester City but face competition from Juventus, Everton and Crystal Palace for the 28-year-old. PORTUGAL midfielder Joao Neves, 19, who has been linked with a move to Manchester United, is in talks over a new contract at Benfica that could see his release clause increased from €120m (RM615m) to €150m (RM769m). UNITED are also being linked with 25- year-old Sweden striker Viktor Gyokeres from Benfica’s rivals Sporting Lisbon. LIVERPOOL have asked Fulham about the availability of United States international Antonee Robinson, 26, as they look to sign a leftback in the January transfer window. TOTTENHAM have told 29-year-old England defender Eric Dier, Denmark midfielder Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, 28, and French keeper Hugo Lloris, 37, they can leave the club in January. SEVILLA and Tottenham Hotspur are both set to bid for Ajax’s Belgian midfielder Stanis Idumbo Muzambo, 18, who has turned down a new offer from the Dutch club. FRANCE forward Antoine Griezmann, 32, says Atletico Madrid will be his last club in Europe and he would be interested in finishing his career in the United States. AC MILAN are set to recall 24-year-old Italian centreback Matteo Gabbia from his loan with Villarreal next week. Malaysia Open eyeing qualifier status for prestigious British Open THE US$1 million (RM4.6 million) Malaysian Open golf tournament is set to return after a three-year hiatus, with the 2024 edition hoping to be accepted as one of the qualifying tournaments for the prestigious British Open (The Open) 2024. If successful, it will surely elevate the status of the Malaysian Open, which was not held for the last three years due to the Covid-19 pandemic, and draw the attention of prominent golfers when it tees off under the Asian Tour at the Mines Resort and Golf Club here from Feb 15-18. Malaysian Golf Association (MGA) president Tan Sri Mohd Anwar Mohd Nor said they have applied to the organiser of The Open, the Royal & Ancient (R&A) Golf Club of St Andrews in the United Kingdom, to get the qualifier status. “We are still waiting for confirmation from the R&A… the announcement (will come) from the Asian Tour Commissioner. “If the R&A confirms that the top two or three players will qualify for The Open, I am sure many top golfers will come to play (in the Malaysian Open),” he said during the tournament press conference yesterday. The 152nd edition of the world’s oldest golf tournament – The Open – is scheduled to be held at the Royal Troon Golf Club in Scotland from July 18-21. Founded in 1860, The Open offered a whopping US$16.5m (RM76m) prize purse for the 2023 edition and is one of the world’s four majors in men’s golf. Meanwhile, Mohd Anwar said about 25 to 28 Malaysian golfers, including four amateurs, will get a chance to tee off in the Malaysian Open, which was last held in March 2020 at the Kota Permai Golf and Country Club, Shah Alam, after which the Covid-19 outbreak put a pause to the global sporting scene. He said popular national golfers Gavin Green, Shahriffuddin Ariffin, Ben Leong and Ervin Chang have all qualified (to play in the Malaysian Open) based on their rankings, while others will be confirmed later based on their rankings in the 2023 Professional Golf of Malaysia (PGM) Tour (known as Toyota Tour). The best-ever achievement by a local golfer since its inception in 1962 was the second-place finish in 1994 by the late P. Gunasegaran, who lost the title to Sweden’s Joachim Haeggman after a thrilling eight-hole playoff. – Bernama File pix of Kuala Lumpur City FC’s Romel Morales (left) in action against Sri Pahang FC’ Mohamad Azwan Mohd Aripin. – BERNAMAPIX REPRESENTING Malaysia has never crossed the mind of Harimau Malaya squad’s newly minted naturalised striker Romel Morales who is among 26 players named by head coach Kim Pan Gon for the 2023 Asian Cup in Doha, Qatar next month. The 26-year-old Colombia-born said he arrived in Malaysia six years ago with many dreams but never expected the opportunity to don the Malaysian jersey, especially ahead for the Asian Cup. According to the Kuala Lumpur (KL) City FC player, he was grateful to be called up by Pan Gon and is determined to help the team achieve good results in Doha. “I’m very excited about this great opportunity, this is a new challenge in my career, six years ago I arrived in Malaysia with so many dreams but I never expected something like this, this is great and I’m so grateful for this. “I just want to give my best to help the team and continue doing a great job,” he said when met at the national team’s training session at Wisma FAM in Kelana Jaya yesterday. Commenting further, Morales said that Malaysia is a special country for him and he did not hesitate to accept the invitation to join the Harimau Malaya squad. “I feel I’m part of this country because I have already experienced so many things here… this is a special country for me, when I got this opportunity I didn’t think long to take it,” he said. Morales started his career in Malaysia with PKNS FC and featured in the 2018 Super League season before joining KL City to lift the Malaysia Cup in 2021 as well as emerging as runner-up in the 2022 Asian Football Confederation (AFC Cup). Meanwhile, goalkeeper Sikh Izhan Nazrel Sikh Azman also thanked Pan Gon for retaining him and he remains committed and determined to serve the country and gain as much experience as possible in Doha. The Negeri Sembilan FC player, who is among youngsters in the squad, said there was no pressure on his side since Ahmad Syihan Hazmi Mohamed remains the first choice goalkeeper for the Doha outing. “This is the best opportunity for me to gain experience but I must be well prepared to seize such an opportunity, just in case anything happens to the first choice goalkeeper,” said the 21-year-old player. – Bernama
theSun is published and printed by Sun Media Corporation Sdn Bhd (221220-K) of Lot 6, Jalan 51/217, 46050 Petaling Jaya, Selangor. Tel: 03-7784 6688 Fax: 03-7783 7435 • Tel (Editorial): 03-7784 6688 Fax: 03-7785 2624/5 Email: [email protected] • Tel (Advertising): 03-7784 8888 Fax: 03-7784 4424 Email: [email protected] -Story on page 30 SCAN ME FRIDAY | DEC 29, 2023 or download app from the App Store or Google PlayTM . www.thesun.my Free access to iPaper PDF Download SCAN ME Malaysian Paper Read iPaper at Malaysian Paper Malaysian Paper Man City’s Phil Foden (2nd right) shoots at goal during the English Premier League match against Everton at Goodison Park yesterday. – REUTERSPIX Nadal’s last hurrah Noni spot on for Blues MANCHESTER CITY manager Pep Guardiola believes their 3-1 victory in a “massive” game at Everton will serve as a reminder to their rivals not to write them off. City arrived back from Saudi Arabia as Club World Cup winners looking to correct a record which had seen them win just once in six Premier League matches and drop off the pace in the title race. But while they were away, results went in their favour which meant winning their two matches in hand on Liverpool would reduce the deficit at the top to just two points, and the first of those was achieved after they recovered from former winger Jack Harrison’s opener with goals from Phil Foden, Julian Alvarez – from the penalty spot – and Bernardo Silva. “Really, really important. It was a massive game for us, coming from Saudi Arabia,” said Guardiola. “We were really pleased with how we reacted and it proved again how special this group of players is and the mentality that we have in our bones. “We want to be there. I know we are not top of the league, (but) a lot of things are going to happen. “I never saw a Premier League where every game the teams down low and mid-table can beat everyone. There will be a lot of surprises and the thing is to be there.” Guardiola said the Club World Cup was not only a distraction, but also helped refocus the players’ minds. “I remember on the plane coming back from Saudi Arabia I listened to the players when they didn’t know I was listening and they started to talk about Everton,” he added. “I said ‘wow, this is my team’. I have the feeling they still want to try. “We play many games this season and people say we are not the same. We have lost one of the last 13 (not including the Club World Cup). We don’t talk enough about how good we are.” The only downside to the game was an ankle problem for John Stones, who left the stadium wearing a protective boot, on only his fifth Premier League start of a season already significantly affected by injury. “Hopefully the damage isn’t big and he can come back soon,” said the City boss, who is also hopeful Erling Haaland and midfielder Kevin De Bruyne will be available soon. Haaland has missed six matches with a foot problem while De Bruyne has not played since August because of a hamstring injury. “He (Haaland) is training alone and getting better, it’s a question of when the pain will disappear,” he said. “He’s not a skinny guy like Phil Foden, he’s huge and tall so it is more difficult sometimes. “Kevin is close, but he had fatigue yesterday and we have to be careful. If you don’t handle the timings good you can get injured again. “I’d love for him to play the next game or Huddersfield (in the FA Cup), but what is important is keeping him fit for a long time, not for one game or another.” Everton manager Sean Dyche was frustrated by the award of the penalty for handball against Amadou Onana that allowed City to take the lead through Alvarez, but did not use it as an excuse. “I don’t have a clue. No-one does. Is that deliberate? Of course not. I don’t know where you are supposed to put your hands,” he said. “If he deliberately did that he must be some keeper. His reactions were cat-like. I’ve never seen anything like it. “But they are still a top side. We know they make chances and you have to try to stop those, which we didn’t do.” – The Independent █ BY CARL MARKHAM Guardiola hails City’s comeback victory over Everton Massive win -Story on page 28