The Edge & The Sun - 6th September 2022

NAJIB HAS APPLIED FOR PARDON, REMAINS MP
UNTIL PETITION IS FINALISED p3

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2022 w w w. t h e e d g e m a r k e t s. c o m

ISSUE 438/2022

CEOMorningBrief
HOME: Despite damning witness statement, ex-Treasury deputy sec-gen
‘does not remember’ details of 1MDB’s loans p4

Ex-Tabung Haji chairman Abdul Azeez to face graft and money-laundering trial after appeal dismissed p6
Mohd Shukrie quits as KPJ Healthcare MD after only five months p12
Liz Truss vows tax cuts after winning vote to be next British PM p17
WORLD: Credit Suisse trust ‘failed basic duty’, says billionaire client p20

PHOTO: WWW.ISTANANEGARA.GOV.MY

No privileges
or exceptions
in Islamic
justice, says
Agong

Report on Page 3.

CMB_190mm(w)x50mm(h)_6Sep2022_Final OL.pdf 1 8/30/2022 3:49:23 PM

M
Y

Y

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Najib present Najib, clad in a dark suit, was flanked
in court despite by prison guards as per the norm in
court proceedings, following his impris-
reports of onment on Aug 23. Also present was his
hospitalisation wife Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor.

by Tarani Palani & Timothy Archariam It was reported on Sunday that Najib
theedgemarkets.com was hospitalised and undergoing a med-
ical check-up.The nature of his medical
KUALA LUMPUR (Sept 5): Former condition was not known, though he
prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak was reported to be in stable condition.
was present in court on Monday morn-
ing (Sept 5) despite news reports on In this trial, Najib is charged with
Sunday that he was hospitalised. four counts of abuse of power in en-
riching himself with RM2.3 billion of
The former premier was present for 1MDB funds, and 21 counts of mon-
the ongoing 1Malaysia Development ey laundering of the same amount. He
Bhd (1MDB)-Tanore trial before High could face a fine and up to 20 years’
Court judge Datuk Collin Lawrence Se- imprisonment if convicted.
querah.
Najib is currently serving a 12-year
prison sentence as the apex court has
dismissed his final appeal in the RM42
million SRC International Sdn Bhd
case.

continues on Page 3

Discovery application in US$1.18 bil SRC suit withdrawn

KUALA LUMPUR (Sept 5):Jailed former by Hafiz Yatim his non-appearance after the suit was filed.
prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak on theedgemarkets.com A judgement in default can be entered if
Monday (Sept 5) withdrew his discovery the person named in a suit fails to respond.
application in the US$1.18 billion civil suit Norman, while Syafinaz Vani and Lisa
filed by SRC International Sdn Bhd. Yong appeared for SRC, a former sub- SRC had previously dropped other
sidiary of 1Malaysia Development Bhd defendants from the civil suit, includ-
This came after his lawyers from and currently owned by Minister of Fi- ing its former chairman Tan Sri Ismee
Messrs Shafee & Co received the bun- nance Incorporated. Ismail, former directors Datuk Shahrol
dle of documents that are needed for the Azral Ibrahim Halmi, Datuk Suboh Md
hearing from SRC’s solicitors from Rosli SRC filed the suit in May last year, Yasin, Datuk Mohammed Azhar Osman
Dahlan Saravana Partnership. seeking a declaration from the court that Khairuddin and Datuk Che Abdullah @
Najib is liable to account for the com- Rashidi Che Omar.
The former premier had filed the dis- pany’s losses of US$1.18 billion due to
covery application in the High Court on their breach of duties and trust. Najib, 69, is presently serving a 12-year
June 9, and it had been fixed for hearing jail term after the Federal Court affirmed
on Monday. The amount is said to be from the his conviction and sentence on seven counts
Retirement Fund Inc (KWAP)’s RM4 of abuse of power, criminal breach of trust
Following the withdrawal, judge Datuk billion loans that were given to SRC be- and money laundering related to SRC.
Ahmad Fairuz ZainolAbidin struck out the tween 2011 and 2012, which were chan-
application and made no order as to costs. nelled overseas and unrecovered to date. Last February, Ahmad Fairuz refused
Najib’s application for a stay of the hear-
Ahmad Fairuz fixed Oct 17 for fur- Former SRC managing director Nik ing of the civil suit pending the outcome
ther case management to give pre-trial FaisalAriff Kamil is also named as a defend- of his SRC appeal.
directions, and asked both parties to file ant in the suit. Nik Faisal remains at large Read also: Najib allowed to be out from
a chronology of events and summary of and he was last known to be in Indonesia. prison to hear bid to strike out his RM1.9
the case by then. mil suit
Last November, the court entered a
Najib was represented by lawyers Mu- judgement in default against Nik Faisal for
hammad Farhan Shafee and Alaistair

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No privileges
or exceptions in
Islamic justice,

says Agong

theedgemarkets.com Najib has applied case basis. It is unlike the court system,”
for pardon, he told The Edge.
KUALA LUMPUR (Sept 5): Islamic jus- remains MP
tice does not give any privilege or excep- Another lawyer, Mohd Haniff Kha-
tion to anyone who commits a wrongdo- until petition is tri Abdulla, concurred, saying there is
ing, whether it be to oneself, close friends, finalised no time frame for the Pardons Board to
family members or parents, said theYang decide.
di-Pertuan Agong, Al-Sultan Abdullah Surin Murugiah & Hafiz Yatim
Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah. theedgemarkets.com Under Article 42 (1) of the Federal
Constitution, the YDPA has power to
The King said this at the opening of the KUALA LUMPUR (Sept 5): Dewan grant pardons, reprieves and respites in
Pahang Syariah Court Complex in Kuan- Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Azhar Azizan respect of all offences that have been tried
tan, Pahang, on Monday, according to a Harun confirmed that convicted former by court-martial and all offences com-
Bernama report. prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak mitted in the FederalTerritories of Kua-
has applied for a royal pardon, and re- la Lumpur, Labuan and Putrajaya. The
The principle of Islamic justice does not mains as a Member of Parliament (MP) same power is held by the Ruler orYang
allow any form of injustice, including to until a decision is made on the application. di-Pertua Negeri of a state in respect of
those unliked, besides also upholding jus- all other offences committed in his state.
tice without favouritism that was practiced In a statement on Monday (Sept 5),
successfully and which raised the dignity Azhar said Najib filed the petition for a According to Mohd Haniff, the
of Islam during the time of Prophet Mu- royal pardon on Sept 2, which was well five-member Pardon’s Board chaired
hammad SAW, he was quoted as saying. within the 14-day period from the day by the YDPA in the Federal Territories
of the Federal Court’s dismissal of his include FederalTerritories Minister Da-
“The principle of justice that is trans- appeal on Aug 23. tuk Seri Shahidan Kassim, and Attorney
parent also succeeds in developing a just, General Tan Sri Idrus Harun.The other
fair and prosperous society.The principle “Therefore, Najib’s status as the MP two are appointed by theYDPA.
of justice according to Islam is upholding for Pekan remains unchanged, and will
God’s trust. only be determined once the pardon pe- “A report has to be prepared by the
tition is finalised,” Azhar said. AG and the Prisons Department for the
“Based on the same principle, Syariah board to consider a pardon, but theYDPA
courts must also be wise in using discre- Constitution lawyer Datuk Baljit Singh is not bound by their recommendations,”
tionary powers and to be always fair to all Sidhu said there is no time limit for the he said.
parties when sentencing, especially those ruler who chairs the Pardons Board to
involving family cases. decide on granting a pardon. He said a second application for par-
don can be submitted should the first
“If the law is not implemented con- “(The ruler) may decide on a case to one be rejected, and that a convict can
sistently and fairly, justice will certainly keep reapplying each time his applica-
not be achieved as the philosophy behind tion is rejected.
the enactment of a law would have been Read also: Najib’s pardon petition first
tainted, and as a result, the disadvantaged of its kind in 65 years
party would end up being victimised by
those in power,” the King reportedly said.

He also said the power to punish and
pardon should not be used arbitrarily be-
cause one will be held accountable in the
‘afterlife’.

from Page 2 only there in the daytime for tests. which was why he was sent to the hos-
“I can tell you he is concerned, be- pital for a check-up.
While the court was in recess for
lunch, Najib’s lawyer Tan Sri Muham- cause about a couple of months ago, he According to the lawyer, the doctors
mad Shafee Abdullah said the former had internal bleeding caused by an ulcer. have prescribed medication to Najib.
prime minister was “concerned” after His haemoglobin [level] went down to While his condition is “okay”, the fact
the health scare on Sunday. something like 4.7 [per decilitre]. The that he was given medication showed
normal [level] is 16 [per decilitre]. The that he has a real health problem, said
The senior lawyer added that a few doctor said that was a situation that you Shafee.
doctors had seen his client and per- could have gotten a stroke, because of
formed tests on the ex-premier at Hos- the haemoglobin level,” the lawyer said. He added that whether or not Najib
pital Kuala Lumpur (HKL). would have to go back to the hospital
He added that Najib’s stomach felt would depend on the test results and
Shafee added that Najib did not uncomfortable while he was in prison, the doctors at HKL.
spend the night at the hospital, but was

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home

Despite damning witness statement, ex-Treasury
deputy sec-gen ‘does not remember’
details of 1MDB’s loans

KUALA LUMPUR (Sept 5): Despite giv- by Timothy Achariam & Tarani Palani Inc liable for 1MDB’s debts.
ing an explosive testimony in court via her theedgemarkets.com Wan Aizuddin asked if this request was
witness statement into the inner workings of
1Malaysia Development Bhd (1MDB), spe- He referred to Siti Zauyah’s witness made in writing, to which the witness an-
cifically the company’s attempt at obtaining statement that MOF’s loans manage- swered in the affirmative.
a US$3 billion (RM13.36 billion) govern- ment, financial market and actuarial di-
ment-backed loan, Datuk Siti Zauyah Mohd vision (BPKA) received orders via a letter However, when he pointed out that the
Desa, a former deputy secretary-general at dated Jan 15, 2013. said letter was nowhere to be found. Siti
the Ministry of Finance (MOF), could not Zauyah went silent again.
answer or just “does not remember” when After seeing the letter, which she specif-
pressed on details of her written testimony. ically mentioned in her witness statement, Wan Aizuddin referred to a meeting
Siti Zauyah said that she was “not sure” if held on Jan 30, 2013 between 1MDB,
Testifying as the prosecution’s 26th wit- that was the same letter. MOF and Goldman Sachs, where the in-
ness in the ongoing 1MDB-Tanore trial, Siti vestment bank had allegedly stated that the
Zauyah was asked by former prime minister The letter stated that 1MDB will enter LOC has to have a government undertak-
Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak’s lawyerWan into a 50:50 JV with International Petroleum ing, otherwise it would not be bankable.
AizuddinWan Mohamed about assertions Investment Company (IPIC) and in order
she made in her witness statement. to get funds, the company needed a letter WanAizuddin:Was this meeting minuted?
of comfort (LOC) from the government. Siti Zauyah: I don’t remember.
She had previously said in her witness Wan Aizuddin: Did you attend the
statement that Najib, who was minister of Wan Aizuddin: Do you agree with me meeting?
finance then, had signed off on a letter of that [with] this (LOC), the government or Siti Zauyah: I don’t remember.
support (LOS) for a purported US$6 billion MOF is not bound? Wan Aizuddin: Is this whole [meeting]
strategic acquisition joint-venture (JV) fund outside your recollection?
between 1MDB and Aabar Investments PJS, Siti Zauyah: Your honour, I am not a Siti Zauyah: I didn’t say that.
ostensibly for the development of the Tun legal person, so I can’t answer that. Wan Aizuddin: Did you prepare this
Razak Exchange in Kuala Lumpur. portion of your witness statement or did
He referred to her witness statement someone else prepare it?
Siti Zauyah said MOF Inc did not have where she stated that MOF’s initial stance Siti Zauyah: I don’t remember...I
any information to conduct due diligence on the matter was just to issue an LOC with don’t recall if I was present in this meet-
on the JV, but the LOS was processed an- a moral responsibility (tanggungjawab mor- ing. I didn’t meet with Goldman Sachs. I
yway on the instructions of Najib. al) only, and not any government guarantee. just remember instructions from [Irwan].
Wan Aizuddin: At any time during the
However, when asked about those in- Wan Aizuddin: Whose stance was this issuance of this LOC, you didn’t meet with
structions on Monday (Sept 5), Siti Zauyah within the MOF? [Goldman Sachs] or you don’t recall meet-
said that she “did not know” and kept quiet ing with them?
untilWan Aizuddin pushed her for answers. Siti Zauyah: [Former] Treasury sec- Siti Zauyah: I don’t remember.
retary-general [Tan Sri Mohd] Irwan Ser- Wan Aizuddin then pointed out that in
Wan Aizuddin: How was this instruc- igar [Abdullah]. her witness statement, she said that 1MDB
tion given? dealt directly with the Prime Minister’s Office
Irwan agreed to issue a guarantee in the (PMO) to avoid questions from MOF.He put
Siti Zauyah: I don’t remember. form of an LOC, as requested by Gold- it to her that she has no proof to support that.
Wan Aizuddin: Was it formal or in- man Sachs, which had given the bank the Siti Zauyah said she does not remember.
formal? mandate to raise US$3 billion for 1MDB. Wan Aizuddin: I put it to you that
Siti Zauyah: I don’t remember. the PMO or Najib was not involved in
Wan Aizuddin: So, what is the basis of However, in her witness statement, Siti the change of Letter of Comfort (LOC)
your statement? There must be a certain Zauyah said that the LOC was not to Gold- to Letter of Support (LOS).
event or document which made you make man’s satisfaction. Siti Zauyah: I don’t know.
this loaded statement. This comes as no surprise, as Siti Zauy-
This was followed by a long silence from Through 1MDB, it (Goldman) sought ah had previously testified before judge
her. Wan Aizuddin then asked her about to change the letter from an LOC to an Datuk Collin Lawrence Sequerah that she
the lack of due diligence before the LOS LOS that was legally binding, as it (Gold- was neither involved in drafting her sworn
was signed off. man) feared the deal would be unbankable witness testimony, nor aware of its content,
Deputy Public Prosecutor (DPP) Nadia without a government undertaking and the although she had signed off the document.
Mohd Izhar interjected to explain that in loan would not be realised. Najib is charged with four counts of abuse
Siti Zauyah’s witness statement, she (Siti of power and 21 counts of money laundering
Zauyah) testified that Najib instructed for An LOS is an indirect guarantee, where of RM2.28 billion of 1MDB funds.
the LOS to be issued, not for due diligence the parent company would have to settle
to not be conducted. the debt obligation if the company failed
After that,Wan Aizuddin referred to the to repay the loan. And if the holding com-
LOS for 1MDB’s US$3 billion bond issuance. pany failed to do so, then the government
would be held accountable for the loan.

Meanwhile, an LOC is just a form
of support and in no way holds MOF

tuesday september 6, 2022 5 TheEdge CEO morning brief

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Ex-Tabung Haji chairman Abdul Azeez
to face graft and money-laundering trial

after appeal dismissed

Mohamad Shahril Basri/The Edge

by hafiz yatim
theedgemarkets.com

PUTRAJAYA (Sept 5): Former Lem- Abdul Azeez (centre). He was represented by Amer Hamzah Arshad and Joshua Tay,
baga Tabung Haji chairman Datuk Seri who earlier apologised to the court for the Baling Member of Parliament’s
Abdul Azeez Abdul Rahim will still have non-appearance on Aug 26, due to his client suffering from gastritis.
to undergo his ongoing graft and mon-
ey-laundering trial in the Sessions Court there is no duplicity or multiplicity in all Part of the graft money which he alleg-
in Kuala Lumpur. the graft and money-laundering charges. edly received was with regard to Menu-
ju Asas securing the West Coast Express-
This follows a three-member Court of “The [other six] money-laundering way project under construction worth
Appeal bench on Monday (Sept 5) dis- charges can stand on their own, and it is RM644.48 million.
missing his appeal to strike out three graft not necessary for the prosecution to state
and five money-laundering charges against the predicate (main offence),” the top For the three corruption charges, he
him in the ongoing trial. judge added. is alleged to have committed the offences
at CIMB Bank, Jalan Tun Perak in Kua-
However, the appellate court allowed The appellate court said it was improp- la Lumpur on Dec 8, 2010, and at Affin
Abdul Azeez’s application to strike out er for the court to consider striking out Bank, Puchong city centre, Selangor on
four money-laundering charges, due to the charges when the case had not gone June 13, 2017 and April 10, 2018.
the fact that it was not clear where the to a full trial to allow the prosecution to
offence was stipulated, as it merely stat- make its case. For the money-laundering charges, Ab-
ed the Klang Valley, whereas the trial is dul Azeez was charged with committing
held in Kuala Lumpur. With this, Abdul Azeez’s case in Kuala the offences in the Klang Valley between
Lumpur is fixed for mention onWednesday. March 8, 2010 and Aug 30, 2018.
Abdul Azeez was appealing against the
High Court’s decision on March 12 last The decision made on Monday follows With four of the 10 money-laundering
year, which dismissed his application to Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC) charges struck out, the initial amount of
strike out three corruption charges involv- Deputy Public Prosecutor Azlinda Ahad RM13.9 million, which he was charged
ing RM5.2 million in connection with road informing the court that no decision was with, is now reduced to RM1.858 million,
projects in Perak and Kedah, and 10 mon- made by the chambers with regard to the as mentioned by one of his counsels.
ey-laundering charges involving RM13.9 four representations sent by Abdul Azeez
million, which he allegedly received from to them. Abdul Azeez was represented by Amer
Menuju Asas Sdn Bhd. Hamzah Arshad and JoshuaTay, who earlier
“The AG (Attorney General) had seen apologised to the court for the Baling Mem-
With the latest ruling, Abdul Azeez has the papers and was briefed on the matter ber of Parliament’s non-appearance on Aug
managed to get four of the 10 money-laun- last Friday. No decision was made, and 26, due to his client suffering from gastritis.
dering charges struck off. we are instructed to receive the court’s
decision,” she said. Amer Hamzah later told reporters that they
The court ruled that the prosecution may not appeal against Monday’s decision,
should differentiate the offences on wheth- Abdul Azeez, 55, was appealing against but would follow up with the AGG on the
er they were committed in Kuala Lumpur the High Court’s decision on March 12 four representation letters that they had sent.
or Selangor so as to differentiate the juris- last year, which dismissed his application
diction of the local court. to strike out the three corruption charg- This follows a financial analysis by the
es involving RM5.2 million in connection Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission,
This follows the court ruling that by not with road projects in Perak and Kedah, which shows that Abdul Azeez received
stating the venue of the alleged offences, and 10 money-laundering charges involv- lawful remuneration as one of Menuju Asas
the charges seemed ambiguous and un- ing RM13.9 million, which he allegedly directors, and hence, the argument over
fair to the former Tabung Haji chairman. received from Menuju Asas. the graft allegations should be reviewed.

Judge Datuk Seri Kamaludin Md Said,
who sat with Datuk Abu Bakar Jais and
Datuk Che Mohd Ruzima Ghazali, unan-
imously ruled that the other charges are in
order and do not prejudice Abdul Azeez.

The written judgement was read by
Abu Bakar.

He ruled that the three graft charges do
not violate the legal principles, and there
is no political prosecution and mala fide
(bad faith) as alleged by Abdul Azeez in
his striking out application.

Hence, the judge said the charges are in
order, and the appellate court also ruled

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SHAH ALAM (Sept 5):The prosecution Zahid received accused’s private and official residences,
told the High Court on Monday (Sept 5) gratification for and where the deliveries took place in the
that former deputy prime minister Datuk himself as UKSB residences,” Abdul Malik said.
Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi had received contributions never
gratification for himself. went into Umno Meanwhile, DPP Zander LimWai Ke-
account, says DPP ong submitted on the defence’s complaint
Deputy public prosecutor (DPP) Abdul that the public prosecutor had acted un-
Malik Ayob said contributions were deliv- Bernama fairly, was biased and adopted selective
ered by Ultra Kirana Sdn Bhd (UKSB) prosecution against the accused.
officers to Zahid personally, but never went Patrick Goh/The Edge
into an Umno account, although the pay- “The question to be considered by the
ments were said to be political contribu- Zahid, 69, is facing 33 charges of receiving bribes court is whether the accused’s right to a
tions. amounting to S$13.56 million from UKSB for fair trial has been infringed upon or not,”
he said.
“Although the defence is saying the himself as the then home minister to extend the
money was a political donation, it was not contract of the company as the operator of one- Lim said Zahid was represented by a
paid to his political party. stop centre service in China and the foreign visa very competent legal team, given the right
system (VLN), as well as to maintain the contract to cross-examine all the prosecution wit-
“UKSB also never put the money agreement to supply the VLN integrated system nesses, and to put up their defence during
into an Umno account, nor had they the prosecution’s case, as well as given a
obtained receipts for the payments.The for the same company by the Home Ministry. reasonable time frame to file in their writ-
accused also did not refuse or ask for ten submissions.
the money to be taken away when they “They also concurred that the deliver-
were handed to him,” Abdul Malik said ies of the monies were done in Country “The accused was also given the right to
in his submissions at the end of the Heights, Kajang or Seri Satria, Putrajaya, submit the defence orally at the close of the
prosecution’s case. and the deliveries were done at night after prosecution’s case and, without a doubt,
10pm.They were also able to describe the this case is heard before My Lord, who is
The DPP said evidence from three key independent and impartial,” Lim added.
witnesses was consistent on the deliveries
of the monies to Zahid.The witnesses were The DPP also submitted that there was
two former UKSB directors, namely Harry no violation of the accused’s rights under
LeeVui Khiun andWan Quoris ShahWan Article 8(1) of the Federal Constitution.
Abdul Ghani, and former UKSB admin-
istrative manager David Tan Siong Sun, “The charges faced by the accused are
who were the 15th, 16th and 17th prose- not discriminatory in nature.The accused
cution witnesses. is given the same procedural rights for re-
lief and for defence, just like any other
“Harry Lee and Wan Quoris Shah accused in a criminal trial, without dis-
were in agreement, as they testified that crimination.
the accused never indicated the amount
to be contributed, only the fact that the “The accused is entitled to put forward
accused had indicated that the contri- all his defences, including examination of
butions must be made in cash and in the prosecution witnesses,” Lim added.
Singapore dollars. Read the full story

KUALA LUMPUR (Sept 5): The High Shafee gets Seri Najib Razak’s cases relating to SRC
Court here on Monday (Sept 5) allowed an passport access to International Sdn Bhd and 1Malaysia De-
application byTan Sri Muhammad Shafee travel to Australia velopment Bhd (1MDB), was allowed to
Abdullah for temporary access to his pass- for meeting with travel abroad on several occasions after he
port to enable the senior lawyer to travel Queen’s Counsel was charged in court.
to Australia for a meeting with a Queen’s
Counsel from the UK. Bernama The 70-year-old lawyer surrendered his
passport to the court in September 2018,
Judge Datuk Muhammad Jamil Hussin from his brother’s firm in Martin Place, after he was charged with two counts of
allowed the release of the lawyer’s pass- Sydney, so I may have to go to both plac- receiving money amounting to RM9.5
port from Sept 6 to 12, as deputy public es,” he said. million, allegedly from illegal activities,
prosecutor Afzainizam Abdul Aziz did not through two cheques issued by Najib,
object to the application. His lawyer Wee Yeong Kang then re- which were deposited into his CIMB Bank
quested for the court to allow Shafee ac- Bhd account.
Earlier, Shafee told the court that there cess to his passport for travel from Sept
were some corrections in the supporting 6 to 12, and for it to be returned to the Shafee is also facing two charges of en-
affidavit in his application for the passport, court on Sept 14. gaging in transactions resulting from ille-
which had been submitted to the court as gal activities, namely submitting incorrect
a bail condition. Prior to this, Shafee, who was the lead tax returns and in violation of Paragraph
counsel in former prime minister Datuk 113(1)(a) of the IncomeTax Act 1967 for
“In the affidavit, I stated that I’ll meet the financial years ended Dec 31, 2013
Queen’s Counsel Geoffrey Robertson in and 2014.
Melbourne. I ask Your Honour for per-
mission to amend it by adding Sydney as On May 12, the prosecution closed
a location of the meeting. the case after calling eight witnesses. Oral
submissions have been fixed for Sept 15
“This is because Geoffrey Robertson before judge Muhammad Jamil.
has a house in Melbourne, but he operates

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KUALA LUMPUR (Sept 5): South Ma- South Malaysia South Malaysia Industries Bhd
laysia Industries Bhd (SMI) has been Industries
slapped with an unusual market activity 60 Sen
(UMA) query by Bursa Malaysia Securi- slapped with 51.5 sen
ties Bhd on Monday (Sept 5) after a sharp UMA as half of
fall in its share price. market value 50 Sept 2, 2022

The property development company wiped off 40
was among the local bourse’s top losers
after the counter fell 26 sen or 50.5% to by Izzul Ikram 30 25.5 sen
its intraday low of 25.5 sen, giving it a theedgemarkets.com 19.5 sen
market capitalisation of RM55.1 million.
Securities Listing Requirements on im- 20
A total of 34.02 million shares changed mediate disclosure obligation.”
hands during the day. 10 Sept 5, 2022
For the second quarter ended June 30, Aug 13, 2021
Prior to the heavy sell-off, SMI shares 2022 (2QFY22), SMI posted a net loss of
had been on an upward trend over the RM400,000 as compared to a net profit Source: Bloomberg
past two months, from 24.5 sen on July of RM1.4 million a year earlier. Revenue
4 to a high of 51.5 sen on Sept 2. for the quarter was flat at RM12.63 mil- in 2QFY21 from an investment in New
lion versus RM12.32 million. Zealand, but it was offset by higher con-
In reply to the query, SMI said its tributions from its property development
board is unaware of any corporate de- In FY21, its net loss narrowed to division and car park operation in the cur-
velopments relating to its business and RM1.72 million from RM3.86 million rent quarter under review.
affairs that have not been previously an- in FY20.
nounced that may have contributed to The company is also involved in the
the trading, including those in the stage SMI said the comparatively weaker manufacturing and trading of assorted
of negotiation/discussion. earnings were a result of a RM2.6 mil- wires.
lion dividend income being recognised
It is also unaware of any rumour or re- Asian Pac Holdings Bhd, through BH
port concerning the business and affairs as Builders Sdn Bhd, is the largest sharehold-
well as any possible explanation that may er of SMI with a 9.31% stake.
have accounted for the trading activity.

“The group is in compliance with the
Bursa Securities Listing Requirements,
in particular Paragraph 9.03 of the Bursa

KUALA LUMPUR (Sept 5): Leong Hup Leong Hup unit The two remaining companies involved
International Bhd said its subsidiary has granted one- are Gold Coin Feedmills (M) Sdn Bhd,
been given a one-month extension to under Gold Coin Group; and PK Agro-In-
submit its representation in response to month extension dustrial Products (M) Sdn Bhd, under CP
the Malaysia Competition Commission’s to submit Malaysia.
(MyCC) poultry feed price-fixing pro-
posed decision. representation In the case of LFM, if it is found to have
over poultry infringed the Competition Act, MyCC has
In a bourse filing on Monday (Sept 5), proposed to impose a financial penalty of
the poultry player said MyCC has granted feed price-fixing RM157.47 million, as well as stop it from
Leong Hup Feedmill Malaysia Sdn Bhd allegations engaging in the alleged anti-competitive
(LFM) until Oct 21 — as compared to the horizontal agreement.
initial deadline of Sept 20 — to submit its by Izzul Ikram
written submissions. theedgemarkets.com LFM will also be subject to submitting
monthly price-related matters to MyCC —
This came after LFM requested for an including price adjustments to customers,
extension of time from the competition recent poultry feed prices, and a monthly
watchdog for the submission of the writ- cost for poultry feed — and enrol its direc-
ten representations. tors and senior management executives in
a competition law compliance programme
MyCC issued its proposed decision and training.
against LFM and four other feed millers
on Aug 5, saying it had provisionally found Lastly, if LFM is found to have infringed
them to have infringed the Competition the Competition Act, it is to develop a stand-
Act 2010 by entering into anti-competitive ard operating procedure in relation to the
agreements and/or concerted practices in disciplinary procedure taken against any in-
increasing the price quantum of poultry dividuals employed who are found partic-
feed that contained soybean and maize as ipating in any anti-competitive agreement.
its main ingredient, between early 2020
and mid-2022. At this juncture, MyCC’s proposed de-
cision’s financial penalty and directions
The other four feed millers include Ma- are not final.
layan Flour Mills Bhd’s partially-owned
Dindings Poultry Development Cen- Shares in Leong Hup ended half a sen
tre Sdn Bhd and PPB Group Bhd’s or 1.03% higher at 49 sen on Monday,
80%-owned FFM Bhd. giving the group a market capitalisation
of RM1.77 billion.

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KUALA LUMPUR (Sept 5): Foreign buy- Foreign buying Weekly net flow of foreign
ing of Malaysian equities on Bursa Malay- of local equities funds into Malaysian equities
sia continued last week, albeit at a slower extends for seventh since January 2021
pace of RM190.9 million versus RM244.6 week at slower pace
million the prior week. of RM190.9 mil, (RM mil) Nov Sept
4,500 2021 2022
In its weekly fund flow report on Mon- says MIDF 4,000
day (Sept 5), the MIDF Research team 3,500
said this was the seventh consecutive week by surin murugiah 3,000
of net inflows from foreigners. theedgemarkets.com 2,500
2,000
The research house said it was also the “Going into the seventh consecutive 1,500
second longest streak of foreign net buying week, local institutions remained net sell- 1,000
so far this year. ers after they net sold RM233.2 million
last week,” it said. 500
“The longest streak was from the week 0
ended Feb 11 to the week ended April 8, MIDF said the amount they sold Jan
consisting of nine consecutive weeks. was RM66.4 million last Monday and 2021
RM252.2 million on Tuesday.
“Foreigners were net sellers only last Sources: Bursa Malaysia statistics,
Thursday at a rate of RM90.1 million, but It said they turned into net buyers after MIDF Research
were net buyers for the rest of the week. the market reopened lastThursday at a rate
of RM79.1 million, and RM6.3 million on weeks of 2022, with a total net inflow of
“The heaviest inflow of RM219.6 mil- Friday, but these were not enough to offset RM8.16 billion.
lion was recorded lastTuesday, while Mon- the outflows recorded earlier in the week.
day saw an inflow of RM61 million and It said local institutions were net sell-
Friday RM400,000,” it said. “Local retailers were still on a net buy- ers for 28 out of 35 weeks, with a total net
ing spree last week as they bought RM42.6 outflow of RM10 billion.
The market was closed last Wednes- million worth of equities.
day in conjunction with Malaysia’s In- “Local retailers were net buyers for 23
dependence Day. “They were net buyers every trading out of 35 weeks of 2022.
day except last Friday,” it said.
MIDF said the top three sectors that “Year-to-date, they have net bought
saw the highest net inflows by foreign- MIDF said that to date, international RM1.84 billion,” it said.
ers last week were financial services at investors were net buyers for 24 out of 35
RM201.7 million, consumer products and MIDF said that in terms of participa-
services at RM58.4 million, and utilities tion, there was a decrease in average daily
at RM51.6 million. trade value (ADTV) among retail inves-
tors by 4.5% and institutional investors by
“Meanwhile, the highest net outflows 1.2%, while foreign investors recorded a
were from industrial products and ser- growth of 60.3% in ADTV.
vices at RM102.8 million, technology
at RM51.4 million, and plantation at
RM26.6 million.

KUALA LUMPUR (Sept 5): Majuperak Majuperak CEO corporate finance at AmInvestment Bank
Holdings Bhd group chief executive officer on garden leave Bhd, and internal audit executive with Park
cum executive director Nizran Noordin was May Bhd.
told to go on garden leave starting last Fri- two month
day (Sept 2), about two months ahead of ahead of service Majuperak’s senior management is led
the expiry of his service contract on Oct 31. contract expiry by its executive chairman Datuk Redza
Rafiq Abdul Razak, who is also the chief
During Nizran’s absence, chief financial by chester tay executive of PKNP.
officer (CFO) Syed Agil Syed Hashim, who theedgemarkets.com
was only appointed last Monday (Aug 29), As for Syed Agil, he joined PKNP as
is appointed as the acting group CEO to deputy chief executive in 2021, before join-
assume the day-to-day management, said ing Majuperak as general manager of cor-
Majuperak in a Bursa Malaysia filing on porate finance on July 1 this year, about two
Monday (Sept 5). months ahead of his appointment as CFO.

Majuperak, which is mainly involved in Majuperak said Syed Agil, 50, has over
property development, is 51%-owned by 20 years of experience in senior manage-
Perak State Development Corp (PKNP). ment, corporate, finance, funding, business
planning, and auditing in the accounting
Other substantial shareholders include and corporate services profession.
KUB Malaysia Bhd with a 5.1% stake and
G Capital Bhd with 7.7% shareholdings. In 1995, Syed Agil joined KPMG (Kua-
la Lumpur) as an audit senior to perform
Nizran was appointed as Majuperak’s audits in various industries including man-
group CEO on Nov 1, 2019, and was ap- ufacturing, trading, oil and gas, hotel, and
pointed to the board as executive director public listed companies.
on June 10, 2020.
He then joined Multimedia Develop-
Majuperak’s 2021 annual report shows ment Corporation as a finance manager
that Nizran was once a private secretary to for about six years before joining Malaysian
the Perak chief minister, executive director Biotechnology Corporation in 2006, with
of Epiweb Sdn Bhd, assistant manager of his last position as chief investment officer.

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MCMC STEERS
DIGITALISATION AREA
FOR ECONOMIC
RECOVERY

The COVID-19 pandemic underscored The MCMC is tasked with moving the country forward on the path to digital transformation, The commission advocates the use of
the importance of technology as a supporting Malaysia’s aspiration to become a high-income and digital nation the Sebenarnya.my portal as a one-stop
critical lifeline for communities during centre for the public to review and chan-
various movement restrictions to contain (1Q2022), down 56% from 1Q2021. nity, which will ultimately speed up cashless nel information about unverified messages
the disease, which accelerated people’s Meanwhile, Pakej is a five-year strategic transactions, thus expanding its customer received online.
reliance on internet services. And with the base. A total of 800,000 micro-entrepreneurs
emergence of new norms such as working roadmap that is set to deliver quality of ser- are expected to benefit by 2025. The portal, which plays an important role
from home, online meetings and various vice and seamless coverage to support the in verifying news and information received
online transactions, public demand for e-commerce industry’s hopes to double the OTHER INITIATIVES CARRIED OUT BY by the public, works with all government
digital infrastructure grew, leading to the parcels per capita to 30 by 2025. MCMC agencies and government-related com-
substitution of mobile broadband from The MCMC also launched Klik Dengan Bijak panies to provide immediate feedback on
fixed broadband. “It aims to provide users with greater (KDB) in 2012, an awareness programme news reviews.
coverage, access and flexibility; improve that promotes positive use of the Internet
As the regulator for the communications the quality of service to enable a seam- with three main aspects of safety, security, Beyond the portal, the MCMC has been
sector, the Malaysian Communications and less customer experience; and support the and responsibility. Since its inception, the working with telecommunications service
Multimedia Commission (MCMC) is tasked e-commerce industry’s projected growth KDB initiative has reached more than six providers and the Commercial Crime Inves-
with moving the country forward on the from 14 to 30 parcels per capita by 2025. million people and gained over 85,000 tigation Department of the Royal Malaysia
path to digital transformation, supporting followers on social media platforms. Police (PDRM) to form a telecommunica-
Malaysia’s aspiration to become a high-in- “The initial rollout of Pakej will focus on tions fraud industry task force to address
come and digital nation. Accelerating the establishing a comprehensive parcel point In addition, the Malaysia ICT Volunteer problems with scam call issues.
deployment of a robust network and prepar- network with more pick-up and drop-off programme (MIV) is a platform that the
ing the nation for the transition to the digital points through a working group involving MCMC has been running since 2016 to As of December 2021, the PDRM has
economy became the MCMC’s top priority. the courier licensees, local councils and improve the digital literacy of Malaysians. opened a total of 324 investigations, 50 of
local authorities,” the MCMC says. which have led to the parties involved being
Moreover, protecting customers has “A total of 3,508 volunteers from dif- charged in court. Enforcement action may
always been a priority for the commission, In addition to expanding coverage, the ferent age groups and backgrounds have be taken under the provisions of s 233 of
with great emphasis on excellent customer rakyat are being offered various forms of been successfully recruited. For the MIV the Communications and Multimedia Act
service. The regulator also monitors and support such as training, counselling and with Schools programmes, teachers in pri- 1998 or Section 505 of the Penal Code.
analyses the compliance of licensees in subsidies, according to the commission. mary and secondary schools were recruit-
the telecommunications sector to ensure These efforts particularly target the bottom ed as volunteers in collaboration with the “An industry reference was developed
consumer protection under the Commu- 40% of income earners (B40) and the ru- Ministry of Education to promote a culture to further strengthen this exercise by imple-
nications and Multimedia Act 1998 and ral population to ensure inclusive growth of positive, safe and responsible use of the menting additional blocking rules to reduce
the General Consumer Code of Practice. in line with the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP). Internet among students. For the MIV with potential fraud calls reaching consumers,
the Community programmes, volunteers effective January 2020. Through joint ven-
“Digital infrastructure and courier services The Malaysian Family Digital Economy teach their local community to verify and tures with the telecommunications service
are critical to creating a viable ecosystem for Centres (PEDi) serve as a digital catalyst in authenticate the information they receive providers, a total of 1.6 billion suspicious
the digital economy, and MCMC accelerat- surrounding communities by providing ser- before sharing it,” says the MCMC. calls have been successfully blocked from
ed Malaysia’s detailed action plans known vices and support such as basic computer reaching consumers,” the MCMC shares.
as National Digital Network (Jalinan Digital skills needed by the local community to be- While the internet has changed the world
Negara, or Jendela) and National Courier come tech-savvy. for the better in many ways, technological MEDi WILL BE NEXT FOCUS
Accelerator Plan (Pakej) to drive the industry advances have also led to increasingly so- To increase the income of the Malaysian
forward in these areas. Currently, there are 911 PEDi nation- phisticated types of fraud. Over the years, family and to empower them to become
wide, with another 173 PEDi in operation one of the main issues has been the level digital entrepreneurs, the government is
“Jendela and Pakej focus on bridging by 2023, says the MCMC. Behind the ex- of intricacy and agility now seen in vishing developing the Digital Economy Landmark
the digital divide and amplifying digital pansion of PEDi is the Small Entrepreneur (voice phishing) and smishing (SMS phish- (MEDi), a one-stop centre that offers various
transformation to enable all Malaysians — Digitisation Empowerment Programme ing) activities, where telecommunications digital technology facilities to further expand
regardless of location or social status — to (Pupuk) which provides interested digital services are misused for fraudulent purpos- their digital business acumen.
embrace new norms and provide a fair entrepreneurs with various training pro- es. It is also worrying that vulnerable con-
chance for all to ride the wave of new op- grammes, introductory events and mi- sumers, especially pensioners, are most at The establishment of MEDi focuses on
portunities as the nation marches further crofinancing to accelerate the launch of risk of being scammed, the MCMC stresses. three key areas: accessibility and access to
into the digital economy,” says the MCMC. businesses. infrastructure for the local community, in-
cluding people with disabilities; high-speed
In providing wider coverage and better Led by the MCMC, Pupuk aims to intro- internet connections of up to 500 Mbps;
broadband quality as the country transitions duce digitalisation to the business commu- and digital lifestyle, such as providing in-
to 5G technology, the MCMC is implement- frastructure and digital services for use by
ing Jendela in stages: phase one (2020 to the community.
2022) and phase two (2022 to 2025).
“For the local community, there will be
“A total of 7.027 million households now entrepreneurship training as well as ex-
have access to fibre broadband and 95.7% posure to IR 4.0, VR/AR and holograms.
of populated areas have access to the 4G Training programmes for this digital ex-
network, despite challenges such as geo- posure will also be provided for interest-
graphical conditions. Meanwhile, the average ed individuals.
mobile broadband speed has also increased
to 40.13 Mbps (megabits per second), sur- “In fact, MEDi is envisioned to be a one-
passing the original first phase target of 35 stop centre and platform for the community
Mbps,” the MCMC notes. and industry as well as local authorities to
offer various services, including land and
The commission has also noticed a sig- utilities-related matters,” says the regulator.
nificant drop in complaints about poor in-
ternet connections with the introduction of Ultimately, these government efforts are
Jendela, as it received 23,803 network-re- aimed at fostering a digital lifestyle in line
lated complaints in the first quarter of 2022 with national aspirations to strengthen Ma-
laysia’s digital economy.

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Mohd Shukrie Prior to that, Datuk Amiruddin Abdul Kelington bags
quits as KPJ Satar served as managing director and RM330 mil
Healthcare MD president from Jan 1, 2013, to July 1, 2020. contract for
after only five gas system
In its statement on Monday, KPJ distribution
months Healthcare said that its chief financial of-
ficer Norhaizam Mohammad will tempo- works in Kulim
by izzul ikram rarily fill in the void left by Mohd Shukrie,
theedgemarkets.com and assume the role of officer in charge. by Syafiqah Salim
theedgemarkets.com
KUALA LUMPUR (Sept 5): KPJ Health- KPJ Healthcare chairman Datuk Md
care Bhd president and managing director Arif Mahmood said the group is confident KUALA LUMPUR (Sept 5): Ke-
Datuk Mohd Shukrie Mohd Salleh is step- that with Norhaizam’s vast experience in lington Group Bhd has won a
ping down, just five months after assuming the healthcare industry, she is fully capa- RM330 million contract from “a
the role on April 1. ble of taking the helm as officer in charge, world leader in semiconductor solu-
supported by the board, as well as an ex- tions”, raising to RM1.28 billion the
He is stepping down from the position perienced senior management team. total orders it has received so far this
effective Wednesday (Sept 7) to pursue year.
other opportunities, the group said in a “Moving forward, the company will re-
statement on Monday (Sept 5). main focused on spearheading our strate- This, the group said, is a fresh
gic growth plans. Prospects continue to record in terms of value of new con-
Over the last two years, KPJ Health- improve in the healthcare sector and KPJ tract wins, surpassing last year’s to-
care has seen two managing directors come Healthcare is well-positioned to capture tal new orders of RM1.19 billion. It
and go, namely Mohd Shukrie and Ahmad the opportunities,” he added. also brings the group’s current order
Shahizam Mohd Shariff. book to RM1.87 billion.
Shares in KPJ Healthcare finished down
Ahmad Shahizam is Mohd Shukrie’s 1.5 sen or 1.71% at 86 sen on Monday, In a statement on Monday (Sept
predecessor and was appointed as the giving the group a market capitalisation 5), Kelington said ts wholly owned
group’s managing director on July 9, of RM3.85 billion. subsidiary Kelington Technologies
2020, before deciding to step down ef- Sdn Bhd won an ultra-high puri-
fective March 31 this year. ty (UHP) contract worth about
RM330 million.The group did not
Datuk Mohd provide the name of the company
Shukrie Mohd that awarded the contract.

Salleh Under the contract, Kelington
will be undertaking the bulk and
Kenny Yap/The Edge specialty gas system distribution
works for the customer’s expansion
KUALA LUMPUR (Sept 5): Bank Ne- Sapura Energy of its current manufacturing facility
gara Malaysia has accepted Sapura En- gets Bank Negara’s in Kulim, Kedah.
ergy Bhd’s application for assistance to nod to restructure
mediate debt restructuring negotiations The project will commence this
with its multicurrency facilities (MCF) debts with month and is slated for completion
financiers. multicurrency by September 2024, said Kelington.
facilities lenders
Sapura said the Corporate Debt Re- Gan said Kelington has received a
structuring Committee of Malaysia, a com- by chester tay surge in bidding invitations from its
mittee under the purview of Bank Negara, theedgemarkets.com existing and new customers across
has given it 60 days from Sept 1 to submit its key operating markets, which in-
a proposal for debt restructuring. Sapura TMC Sdn Bhd is the borrower clude Malaysia, Singapore, China,
for the senior multicurrency term facili- and Taiwan.
During this period, these MCF lenders ties agreement and issuer of the multicur-
are expected to observe an informal stand- rency sukuk programme. “This is a good indicator for us,
still and withhold from any proceedings, as we target to maintain our strong
said the beleaguered oil and gas company At market close, Sapura’s shares were pace of order replenishment moving
in a Bursa Malaysia filing. down half sen or 10% to 4.5 sen, valuing forward.”
it at RM719.06 million.
Sapura said this restructuring involves a Kelington shares closed two
senior multicurrency term facilities agree- sen or 1.64% higher at RM1.24
ment dated March 29 last year, as well as a on Monday, valuing the group at
multicurrency sukuk programme of up to RM800.11 million.
RM10 billion in nominal value dated Aug
20, 2015, with Maybank Investment Bank Read the full story
Bhd as lead arranger and facility agent.

The group’s wholly-owned subsidiary

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news In brief

Pekat bags moneylender licence Microlink appoints Ramlee Abdullah as new CEO
from Housing Ministry

KUALA LUMPUR (Sept 5): Pekat Group Bhd KUALA LUMPUR (Sept 5): Microlink Solutions Bhd has appointed Ramlee Abdullah

has bagged a moneylender licence from the (pictured) as its new group chief executive officer (CEO) to replace Chia Yong Wei, who is

Ministry of Housing and Local Government. stepping down from the role after six years at the helm. In a statement, the technology

In a Bursa Malaysia filing on Monday (Sept solutions provider said Ramlee came over to the company from

5), Pekat said its wholly owned subsidiary, Omesti Group in March this year as senior manager of sales. He

Solaroo RE Sdn Bhd (SRSB), had on Aug was subsequently redesignated as the CEO of the public sector

26 obtained a moneylender licence issued on June 1. Ramlee holds a track record of more than 30 years

under the Moneylenders Act 1951 and in the banking and financial services sector in the Asia, Middle

the Moneylenders (Control and Licensing) East and Africa regions. Microlink deputy chairman Datuk

Regulations 2003 from the ministry. The Jagan Sabapathy said Ramlee’s extensive experience in the ICT

licence is effective from Aug 26 for over industry, serving a wide range of financial services and

two years and is renewable upon making public sector organisations, will be invaluable to the

the renewal application with the Housing group in delivering the next phase of growth. — by

Ministry. “The licence allows SRSB to Syafiqah Salim

undertake business of money lending services

in relation to solar leasing and other related JAG to acquire Taman Desa building
services,” added Pekat. — by Shazni Ong for RM35 mil

Inta Bina bags RM146 mil KUALA LUMPUR (Sept 5): Total waste
construction contract for mixed-use management solutions provider JAG Bhd
development project in Shah Alam is acquiring a 12 and-a-half-storey building

KUALA LUMPUR (Sept 5): Inta Bina Group in Taman Desa, Kuala Lumpur for RM35.29

Bhd has bagged a RM146 million contract million, as part of the group’s effort to

for design and build main building works expand its property investment business. In

in relation to a mixed-use development a bourse filing on Monday (Sept 5), JAG said

project located in Shah Alam, Selangor. its wholly-owned subsidiary JAG Land Sdn

According to a Bursa Malaysia filing on Bhd has entered into a sales and purchase

Monday (Sept 5), Inta Bina’s wholly owned agreement (SPA) with Menara ABS Bhd for EP Manufacturing gets JPJ nod for
subsidiary Inta Bina Sdn Bhd accepted a the freehold property, which also comes two-wheel EVs
letter of award from Eco Ardence Sdn Bhd with two levels of basement carparks. “The

for the proposed development of Hana proposed acquisition is meant for investment KUALA LUMPUR (Sept 5): EP

serviced apartment. The development purposes, with the aim of creating a new Manufacturing Bhd (EPMB) has secured

will see a 32-storey serviced apartment stream of recurring income which will the green light from the government to

block with 500 units. Additionally, there is positively contribute to the group,” said register and license its first-ever two-

an eight-storey covered parking podium JAG. According to the filing, the vendor had wheel electric vehicles (EVs), about

block with facilities on the ground floor. entered into a 15-year lease with Telekom a month after it received conditional

The construction period will be for a Malaysia Bhd (TM) that ends on Jan 8, 2023. approval for the construction of its maiden

period of 30 months, commencing from JAG said TM has expressed its intention to manufacturing plant for the two-wheelers.

the date of site possession on Nov 11. Inta continue renting the property after the sale The Road Transport Department’s (JPJ)

Bina intends to fund the job via internally is concluded, and upon execution of the SPA, National Committee for Vehicle Type

generated funds and external borrowings. JAG will negotiate with TM on a fresh lease. Approval (VTA) and Homologation granted

— by Shazni Ong — by Shazni Ong the VTA for EPMB’s Blueshark SG3000DT

(Blueshark R1) model, the group said.

CanSino’s inhalable Covid-19 vaccine gets clinical trial approval in The VTA approval allows Blueshark R1
Malaysia, says Solution Group to be road registered and licensed by
JPJ, EPMB said in a filing with Bursa

KUALA LUMPUR (Sept 5): The inhalable version of CanSino’s Recombinant Malaysia on Monday (Sept 5). The auto

Covid-19 Vaccine (Adenovirus Type 5 Vector) has received clinical trial approval parts maker first announced its venture

in Malaysia, says Solution Group Bhd (SGB). The Medical Research and Ethics into the manufacturing and distribution

Committee under the Ministry of Health has provided ethical approval for the of two-wheeled EVs for Malaysia and

vaccine, called Convidecia Air. This marks the first trial study of the inhaled version other Southeast Asian markets in March,

of Covid-19 vaccine in Malaysia, according to SGB in a statement on Monday after signing an agreement with CIS Pride

(Sept 5). “This clinical trial will evaluate the immunogenicity, efficacy, and safety Silver Rock Fund (CIS) and China-based

of Convidecia Air vs Pfizer-BioNTech Covid-19 vaccine as a second booster dose Sharkgulf Technologies Group Ltd to

against emerging variants of concern of SARS-CoV-2 to prevent breakthrough undertake the business. CIS, incorporated

infections among sub-optimal responders to first booster vaccination,” said SGB in the Cayman Islands, is an investment

deputy group managing director Datuk Dr Mohd Nazlee Kamal. Mohd Nazlee said fund managed by Silver Rock Capital Ltd,

the study sites for this trial are Ampang Hospital, Selayang Hospital and Kuala Realchamp Asset Management Ltd and

Lumpur Hospital. — by Syafiqah Salim The Pride Group Ltd. It is the main funder

for the new venture. — by Shazni Ong

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Competition in Chua said as Pos Malaysia’s existing Maersk to sell
last-mile delivery customer mix is skewed towards the low- Russian terminal
could weigh down er yield segment, the national courier is investment and
working on improving its overall parcel grow in Malaysia
Pos Malaysia’s yield by focusing on customers that are
profitability, more service oriented, rather than cost — report
says HLIB oriented.
by Surin Murugiah
by Dilpreet Kaur She said parcel yield has improved by theedgemarkets.com
theedgemarkets.com more than 5% thus far, falling slightly
below its initial target to improve by 7%. KUALA LUMPUR (Sept 5): A.P.
Kuala Lumpur (Sept 5): Hong Moller-Maersk has entered into an
Leong Investment Bank (HLIB) Re- “The management has indicated that agreement to divest its investment in
search has maintained its “hold” rating 3Q parcel volumes have remained rath- Russia’s largest container terminal op-
on Pos Malaysia Bhd at 63.5 sen with er depressed so far, but it is seeing early erator, five months after announcing its
an unchanged target price of 61 sen signs of volumes recovering,” she said. planned withdrawal from the business
and said that the intense competition after the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
in the last-mile delivery space could Chua said Pos Malaysia’s key focus
potentially weigh down on Pos Malay- in the second half of 2022 (2H22) is to In a report recently, industry mag-
sia’s profitability. reduce its transportation cost by 20% via azine The Maritime Executive said
productivity improvements and merging Maersk had previously ended container
In a note on Monday (Sept 5), HLIB both its mail and courier network. operations in and out of Russia while
research analyst Sophie Chua Siu Li reporting that it was seeking to divest
said overall parcel volume handled by She said the group is not anticipating its minority interest in Global Ports In-
the market collectively has shrunk by any significant cost increase, specifical- vestments, which runs seven container
circa 30%, owing to consumer purchas- ly in manpower costs despite the imple- terminals, cargo, bulk, and roll-on/roll-
ing trend shifting from online to physical mentation of higher minimum wage, as off operations primarily in the Baltic.
stores and waning consumer sentiment. the majority of its staff are earning above
the current minimum wage of RM1,500. The report added that Maersk
She said the group will be focusing on had signed a memorandum of un-
improving overall parcel yield by altering “The potential parcel volume growth derstanding with the Malaysian In-
customer mix, lowering transportation is also unlikely to drive costs higher, as vestment Development Authority
costs, as well as engaging with regula- PosM (Pos Malaysia) has sufficient ca- (MIDA) to drive investments into
tors to impose floor pricing and check pacity and capabilities to handle the par- the country to establish it as one of
mechanisms to monitor delivery masking. cel volumes. the logistics hubs of Southeast Asia.

“The forecast remains unchanged at It cited MIDA deputy CEO Sivas-
61 sen, based on a P/B (price-to-book) uriyamoorthy Sundara Raja as saying
multiple of 0.65 times on FY23f BVPS that logistics is a cornerstone of Ma-
(book value per share) of 94 sen (at -1SD laysia’s economy.
below its three-year mean of 1.17 times),”
she said. “By connecting suppliers to manu-
facturers, and consumers to business-
At market close, Pos Malaysia added es, we support the growth of various
one sen to 64.5 sen, giving it a market industries.
capitalisation of RM504.89 million.
“By leveraging Maersk’s capabilities
KUALA LUMPUR (Sept 5):The Malay- Sulaiman in integrated logistics, we can transform
sian Investment Development Authority Mahbob is MIDA Malaysia into a regional logistics hub in
(MIDA) has appointedTan Sri Dr Sulaiman chairman from Asean, further boosting infrastructure
Mahbob as its chairman, effective Sept 3. development and free trade,” he said.
Sept 3
Senior Minister of International Trade Meanwhile, Maersk said it will
and Industry Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Bernama work with MIDA to attract high-tech
Ali said MIDA’s role demands a creative, and high-impact investments in sec-
innovative and comprehensive approach, various ministries and departments. tors including automotive, electri-
and it has to be competitive and resilient He is currently the chief executive of- cal and electronics, machinery and
in order to attract quality and high-tech equipment, medical devices, aero-
investments into the country. ficer of the National Recovery Council, a space, renewable energy, and con-
board member of the Institute of Strategic sumer technology in Malaysia.
“Indeed, Sulaiman’s appointment will and International Studies as well as Na-
provide a fresh perspective to raise MIDA’s tional Higher Education Fund Corpora- By enhancing its logistics strength in
dynamism, building on his invaluable ex- tion (PTPTN). Malaysia, where it has operated since
pertise and vast experience, especially in 1975, Maersk said it will contribute to
the areas of economic planning, strategic He is also the Malaysian Institute of the growth and development of the Ma-
business modelling and global trend anal- Economic Research chairman, and a board laysian supply chain sector.
ysis,” Azmin said in a statement on Mon- member of Perbadanan Insurance Deposit
day (Sept 5). Malaysia as well as the Malaysian Com-
munications and Multimedia Commission.
This is the second time Sulaiman has
been elected as the chairman. His first stint
was from 2009 to 2012.

Sulaiman has a distinguished career
in the public service, having served in

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KUALA LUMPUR (Sept 5): Palm oil Malaysia’s palm donesia, output is also rising in Malaysia
stockpiles in Malaysia probably jumped oil reserves may during a peak production season.
past two million tonnes for the first
time in more than two years, as pro- jump to near Production in the second-biggest
duction accelerated and stiffer com- three-year high grower rose 8.3% to 1.70 million
petition from rival Indonesia curbed tonnes, the highest since October, the
export demand. by Anuradha Raghu survey shows. Exports were seen at 1.32
Bloomberg million tonnes, flat from the previous
Inventories climbed 15.8% in Au- month.
gust from a month earlier to 2.05 million
tonnes, according to the median of 10 es- Palm oil production will likely continue
timates in a Bloomberg survey of analysts, rising to hit a peak in September, before
traders and plantation executives. declining through the last quarter of the
year, according to Nagaraj Meda, manag-
That would be first time stockpiles ing director of Hyderabad-based Trans-
breached two million tonnes since May Graph Consulting Pvt Ltd.
2020 and would be the highest since No-
vember 2019. Expanding stockpiles could “With healthy supply, stocks are ex-
further damp palm oil prices, which have pected to increase in the months further
tumbled more than 40% since May, as to nearly 2.40 [million] to 2.50 million
the world’s top producer Indonesia im- tonnes, which would limit the upside in
plemented various policies to boost its the prices,” Meda said. Palm oil futures
own shipments including an export levy fell 0.1% to RM3,912 (US$871) a tonne
waiver that has since been extended to on Monday.
end-October. Read the full story

Besides losing market share to rival In-

SEPANG (Sept 5):The aerotrain replace- KLIA aerotrain “We need to hear from every stakehold-
ment programme at Kuala Lumpur Inter- replacement er; we need to ensure that the technology
national Airport (KLIA) is expected to be programme to is the right technology.
completed in 2025, said Malaysia Airports
Holdings Bhd (MAHB). conclude in 2025, “We need to ensure that the financing
says MAHB model is the right model,” he said.
Its managing director Datuk Iskandar
Mizal Mahmood said the programme in- Bernama Iskandar said in line with the Interna-
volves nine aerotrains worth some RM700 tional AirTransport Association’s forecast
million and would be implemented in two and patience during this time, as there will that the overall passenger numbers would
phases, involving design and construction be some inconvenience to passengers. exceed pre-pandemic levels of four billion
works. in 2024, MAHB would be ready to handle
“To minimise any inconvenience, we have strong passenger demand at KLIA, with
“The new aerotrain would have a ro- enhanced our round-the-clock bus service the aerotrain replacement programme.
bust system, flexible design for future to facilitate passenger movements,” he said.
growth and new features for greater com- Meanwhile,MAHB chairman Datuk Seri
fort, It could carry 90 passengers per car, Asked as to why MAHB decided to em- Zambry Abd Kadir said the current aerotrain
270 passengers per train and 5,400 pas- bark on the replacement programme this system has been in operation for the last 24
sengers per hour per direction. year and not earlier, Iskandar said it was years since the opening of KLIA in 1998.
not an easy decision to make, with many
“The design works, which started in robust processes to go through. “We are not only replacing the trains but
March 2022 and will run until March the entire track system, so that our passen-
2023, is when multiple stakeholder en- gers will be able to experience a renewed
gagements are conducted to ensure that the modern aerotrain service when they pass
new aerotrain system meets both local and through the airport.
international transport and safety stand-
ards, while the construction of the new “This will also effectively enhance
aerotrain will begin from March 2023 until KLIA’s reputation as one of the world’s
March 2025,” he said in a media briefing best airports,” he said.
here on Monday (Sept 5).

Iskandar said within the three-year tran-
sition period, the current aerotrain would
run on a limited schedule to enable a more
robust maintenance regime due to its age-
ing condition, and to facilitate the replace-
ment programme.

He said that an enhanced bus service
was being implemented to facilitate pas-
senger movements between the main ter-
minal building and the satellite building
at KLIA.

“We seek the public’s understanding

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LizTruss vows tax cuts after
winning vote to be next British PM

LONDON (Sept 5): LizTruss will become by Elizabeth Piper & Kylie MacLellan on as prime minister as “probably the sec-
Britain’s next prime minister after winning Reuters ond most difficult brief of post-war prime
a leadership race for the governing Con- ministers” after Conservative Margaret
servative party on Monday, vowing to press Truss faces a long, Thatcher in 1979.
ahead with promises of tax cuts and to deal costly, and difficult to-
with a growing energy crisis. do list, which opposition “I actually don’t think any of the can-
lawmakers say is the didates, not one of them going through it,
After weeks of an often bad-tempered result of 12 years of poor really knows quite how big this is going
and divisive leadership contest,Truss, cur- Conservative government. to be,” he said, adding that costs could
rently the foreign minister, defeated former Several have called for run into tens of billions of pounds.
finance minister Rishi Sunak in a vote of
Conservative Party members, winning by an early election — Truss has said she will appoint a strong
81,326 votes to 60,399. something Truss has Cabinet, dispensing with what one source
said she will not allow. close to her called a “presidential-style”
“I will deliver a bold plan to cut taxes of governing, and she will have to work
and grow our economy,”Truss said after the scrapping tax increases and cutting oth- hard to win over some lawmakers in her
result was announced. “I will deliver on the er levies in a move some economists say party who had backed Sunak in the race.
energy crisis, dealing with people’s energy would fuel inflation.
bills, but also dealing with the long-term Her victory among party members was
issues we have on energy supply.” That, plus a pledge to review the remit also the narrowest of any Conservative
of the Bank of England while protecting leadership election held this century.
Truss takes over as the country faces a its independence, has prompted some in-
cost-of-living crisis, industrial unrest, a re- vestors to dump the pound and govern- The Institute for Government think
cession, and war in Europe, where Britain ment bonds. tank saidTruss would have a weaker start-
has been a leading backer of Ukraine. She ing point than any of her predecessors,
appeared to rule out another national elec- Kwasi Kwarteng, widely tipped to be because she was not the most popular
tion for the next two years, saying she would her finance minister, sought to calm mar- choice among her party’s lawmakers.
win a great victory for her party in 2024. kets on Monday, by saying in an article in
the Financial Times newspaper that under First, she will turn to the urgent issue
She succeeds Boris Johnson, who was Truss there would need to be “some fis- of surging energy prices. Average annual
forced to announce his resignation in July cal loosening” but that her administration household utility bills are set to jump by
after months of scandal saw support for would act in “a fiscally responsible way”. 80% in October to £3,549 (RM18,336),
his administration drain away. before an expected rise to £6,000 in
When asked if he would be finance min- 2023, decimating personal finances.
He will travel to Scotland to meet ister followingTruss’ victory, Kwarteng told
Queen Elizabeth on Tuesday to official- Reuters he did not know. Britain has lagged other major Euro-
ly tender his resignation.Truss will follow pean countries in its offer of support for
him and be asked to form a government Truss faces a long, cost- consumer energy bills, which opposition
by the monarch. ly, and difficult to-do list, lawmakers blame on a “zombie” govern-
ment unable to act while the Conserva-
Long the front runner to replace him, which opposition law- tives ran their leadership contest.
Truss will become the Conservatives’ makers say is the result
fourth prime minister since a 2015 election. of 12 years of poor Con- “We’ve heard far more from the lat-
Over that period, the country has been servative government. est prime minister about cuts to corpo-
buffeted from crisis to crisis, and now Several have called for ration taxes over the summer, than we
faces what is forecast to be a long an early election — have about the cost-of-living crisis, the
recession triggered by skyrocketing something Truss has single most important thing that’s bear-
inflation which hit 10.1% in July. said she will not allow. ing down on so many millions of house-
Veteran Conserv- holds,” opposition Labour Party leader
Foreign minister under John- ative lawmaker David Keir Starmer said.
son, Truss, 47, has promised to Davis described the
act quickly to tackle the cost-of- challenges she In May, the government set out a £15
living crisis, saying that within a would take billion support package to help house-
week she will come up with a plan holds with energy bills as part of its £37
to tackle rising energy bills and billion cost-of-living support scheme.
securing future fuel supplies.
Italy has budgeted over €52 billion
She signalled during her lead- (RM231.6 billion) so far this year to help
ership campaign she would its people. In France, increases in elec-
challenge convention by tricity bills are capped at 4% and Ger-
many said on Sunday it would spend at
least €65 billion shielding consumers and
businesses from rising inflation.

UK Prime Minister Read also: Explainer: Liz Truss inher-
Liz Truss its UK economy heading for recession as
new PM
reuters

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CAIRO/LONDON (Sept 5):The Organiza- OPEC+ agrees Crude futures had lost 20% in the past
tion of Petroleum Exporting Countries and to make token three months on fears of a global economic
allies (OPEC+) agreed to make a token oil supply cut to slowdown, imperiling the revenue windfall
supply cut for October, a surprise moves that steady oil market being enjoyed this year by the Saudis and
shows the alliance is seeking to stabilise global their partners. China, the biggest oil im-
markets after a faltering economic backdrop by Salma El Wardany, Grant Smith porter, has exhibited signs of an “alarming”
triggered the longest price rout in two years. & Ben Bartenstein economic slowdown, with apparent con-
Bloomberg sumption sinking 9.7% in July to a two-
The group will reduce production by year low amid weaker business activity and
100,000 barrels a day next month, taking send he signal that OPEC+ is back into a harsh Covid-19 curbs. Meanwhile, the US
output back to August levels. In its final price-watch mode”, said Bill Farren-Price, has skirted close to recession and pursued
communique after Monday’s online con- head of macro oil and gas research at En- stricter monetary policy.
ference, the cartel also highlighted that it verus.The group may think this move “will
would be willing to call another ministe- be enough to deter any short-sellers”. The fresh production cut suggests “there
rial meeting at any time to address further is a desire to defend oil prices to stay above
market developments. Its next scheduled While traders had mostly expected the the level of US$90 a barrel”, said Giovan-
talks will be on Oct 5. OPEC+ would hold steady, the coalition’s ni Staunovo, a commodity analyst at UBS
leading producer had indicated a possible Group AG.
The decision exactly reverses the Sep- pivot. Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdu-
tember increase that was made in response laziz bin Salman said a couple of weeks ago The decision clashes somewhat with the
to entreaties from US President Joe Biden that the OPEC+ alliance — which has just OPEC+ alliance’s own outlook. Analysis
to help bring down oil prices. It could come finished restoring the output halted during from an OPEC+ committee that met last
as worrying development for consuming the 2020 pandemic — was now considering Wednesday showed that global demand
nations as they grapple the inflationary cuts as a way to stabilise excessive volatility would be higher than supplies in the fourth
squeeze from crude at US$95 (RM426.75) in global markets. quarter, causing inventories to draw down
a barrel and the prospect of a winter ener- at a rate of 300,000 barrels a day.
gy crunch. Markets are on track to tighten
as the European Union sanctions Russian OPEC’s newly appointed secretary gen-
crude over its invasion of Ukraine. eral, Haitham Al Ghais, said in mid-August
that he expected a “bullish” surge of demand
Although the cut is “is inconsequential from consumers eager to resume normalcy
in volume terms, it is rather intended to after two-years of Covid-19 restrictions.

LONDON (Sept 5):The euro zone is almost Europe heading ny, and we now see the euro area ‘enjoying’
certainly entering a recession, with surveys on for recession a longer, three-quarter recession,” said Peter
Monday (Sept 5) showing a deepening cost of Schaffrik at the Royal Bank of Canada.
living crisis and a gloomy outlook that is keep- as cost of living
ing consumers wary of spending. crisis deepens “The revision is mainly due to develop-
ments in energy prices which, even after
While there was some easing of price by Jonathan Cable retreating over recent days, remain elevated
pressures, according to the surveys, they Reuters and which mean that the impact on house-
remained high and the European Central hold spending will be larger than we hith-
Bank is under pressure as inflation is run- Gas prices on the continent erto anticipated.”
ning at more than four times its 2% target, soared as much as 30%
reaching a record 9.1% last month. on Monday, stoking That prospect of recession whacked in-
fears of shortages and vestor morale in the currency union and it
It faces the prospect of raising interest reinforcing expectations slumped in September to its lowest since
rates aggressively just as the economy en- May 2020, another survey showed.
ters a downturn. for a recession and a bitter
winter as businesses and Services activity in Germany, Europe’s larg-
A rise in borrowing costs would add to households are battered by est economy, contracted for a second month
the woes of indebted consumers, yet in a sky-high energy prices. running in August as domestic demand came
Reuters poll last week almost half of the under pressure from soaring inflation and fal-
economists surveyed said they expect an of 48.9 in August from July’s 49.9, below a tering confidence, earlier figures showed.
unprecedented 75 basis-point rate hike from preliminary 49.2 estimate. Anything below
the ECB this week, while almost as many 50 indicates contraction. Its economy is on track to contract for
forecast a 50 bps hike. three consecutive quarters starting from this
“The PMI surveys signal that the euro area one, a Reuters poll suggested last week.
Despite those expectations the euro is entering recession earlier than we previously Read the full story
dropped below 99 US cents for the first thought, led by its largest economy Germa- Read also:
time in 20 years on Monday after Russia Euro plunges to 20-year low after
said gas supply down its main pipeline to Russian gas halt
Europe would stay shut indefinitely. Germany heading for recession despite
new relief plan — economists
Gas prices on the continent soared as much
as 30% on Monday, stoking fears of shortages
and reinforcing expectations for a recession
and a bitter winter as businesses and house-
holds are battered by sky-high energy prices.

S&P Global’s final composite purchasing
managers’ index (PMI), seen as a guide to
economic health, fell to an 18-month low

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(Sept 5): China has reduced the amount China cuts forex Management Ltd. “This action shows the
of foreign-exchange (forex) deposits banks reserve ratio in PBOC is not willing to tolerate a sharp
need to set aside as reserves for the second bid to support yuan depreciation against the US dollar,”
time this year to boost the yuan after the tumbling yuan he said.
currency hit a two-year low.
Bloomberg Speaking shortly before the forex de-
Financial institutions will need to hold posit ratio was cut, PBOC deputy gover-
6% of their foreign-currency deposits in Goldman Sachs Group Inc still expect it nor Liu Guoqiang told reporters in Beijing
reserves starting from Sept 15, the People’s to fall to seven per dollar as concerns over that China was able to maintain the yuan
Bank of China (PBOC) said in a statement a Covid-19 lockdowns in major Chinese at a stable level, adding that it would be a
on Monday — lower than the current level cities and a sluggish property sector weigh “norm” in the short term for the Chinese
of 8%. The move is expected to increase on the economy. currency to move in two ways.
the supply of foreign currencies, thereby
making it more appealing for traders to “The PBOC sent a strong signal to de- The yuan trimmed losses following the
buy the yuan. fend the yuan exchange rate,” said Zhiwei move but remained lower on the day.The
Zhang, chief economist at Pinpoint Asset onshore yuan was down 0.4% to 6.9311
The yuan slid as concerns over mon- per dollar while the offshore unit dropped
etary-policy tightening in the US and a 0.4% to 6.9400 at 5.54pm in Shanghai af-
deepening energy crisis in Europe bol- ter falling to the lowest since 2020.
stered the dollar. And while the string of
stronger-than-expected PBOC fixings have “The cut shows the PBOC’s stance to
slowed the yuan’s slide, banks including slow the yuan’s depreciation pace, but is
unlikely to reverse the course,” said Ken
Cheung, currency strategist at Mizuho
Bank Ltd. “The action was partially ex-
pected following a series of stronger yuan
fixings and the impact should prove to be
mild,” he added.
Read the full story
Read also:
China’s currency struggles spell
trouble across emerging markets
China’s Guiyang locks down some
areas to contain Covid outbreak

China sees third quarter as key for rollout of stimulus measures

BEIJING (Sept 5): China said it will ac- by James Mayger, Jing Li, after his comments, the PBOC cut the
celerate its stimulus rollout in the third Tania Chen & Ran Li foreign-currency reserve ratio by 2 per-
quarter, as it tries to recover from a sec- Bloomberg centage points, a move aimed at boost-
ond quarter marred by pandemic-relat- ing the yuan.
ed losses. ing almost all of the bond quota allocated
for construction projects. “Movements that are reasonable, equi-
It’s “crucially important” for the coun- librium and basically stable is what we’d
try to adopt supportive policies this quar- The briefing came a little over a week like to see,” Liu said, adding that such a
ter,YangYinkai, deputy secretary general after Beijing unveiled a package of stimu- trend would “not be allowed to change”.
at the National Development and Reform lus measures worth more than one trillion
Commission, told reporters in Beijing yuan, focused mainly on infrastructure He added that the “spill-over impact
on Monday. He was speaking alongside spending as a vehicle for growth.The gov- of US monetary policy is controllable”
officials from the central bank and other ernment has been ramping up support due to the resilience of the Chinese econ-
government ministries. for an economy weighed down by Cov- omy and the rising flexibility of the yu-
id outbreaks and lockdowns, along with an’s exchange rate.While the hawkish US
Yang and the other officials noted an unfolding property crisis and power Federal Reserve has been raising interest
that 300 billion yuan (US$43.6 billion) shortages. rates this year to tame inflation, China’s
in funds have been distributed through a central bank has moved in the opposite
policy bank financing programme, which At the same briefing on Monday, direction, most recently cutting its key
is intended to spur infrastructure invest- the central bank’s Deputy Governor policy rate by 10 basis points.
ment this year. Local governments have Liu Guoqiang addressed the curren- Read the full story
also sold 3.5 trillion yuan worth of special cy’s weakness, saying authorities will
bonds through August, they said, includ- be able to keep the yuan stable. Shortly

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Credit Suisse trust ‘failed basic duty’,
says billionaire client

SINGAPORE/GENEVA (Sept 5): Credit by Chanyaporn Chanjaroen Dressed in a navy blue blazer and match-
Suisse Group AG’s Singapore trust unit & Hugo Miller ing light blue tie, he told the court the only
“failed in its basic duty” to safeguard a Bloomberg purpose in going to Credit Suisse was that
billionaire client’s assets, his lawyers ar- he wanted his assets protected.
gued on the opening day of a widely an- Bidzina Ivanishvili is suing
ticipated trial. CS Trust (Singapore) Ltd “I thought I came to the expert, who
can protect my capital and my family,”
Bidzina Ivanishvili is suing CS Trust for US$800 million he said.
(Singapore) Ltd for US$800 million (RM3.58 billion) in
(RM3.58 billion) in damages and lost in- damages and lost income, Credit Suisse Life (Bermuda) Ltd, which
come, arguing the bank should have spot- arguing the bank should handled some of Ivanishvili’s investments,
ted the fraud being committed by former have spotted the fraud unsuccessfully made the same argument that
Credit Suisse banker turned fraudster Pa- being committed by it was not aware of Lescaudron’s activities
trice Lescaudron much earlier. former Credit Suisse in a case at the Bermuda Supreme Court
banker turned fraudster in November. That line of reasoning was
“This is a claim against a trustee to whom Patrice Lescaudron rejected by the judge, who ruled in March
assets were entrusted, who failed in its basic that the Bermuda unit had turned a “blind
duty of keeping them safe,” Cavinder Bull, much earlier. eye to Mr Lescaudron’s wrongdoing”.
Ivanishvili’s lawyer said in court.
The trial will also be a test of whether Ivanishvili was awarded damages of
But CS Trust’s defence lawyer coun- the Zurich-based bank can insulate itself more than US$600 million in the Ber-
tered that their client’s duty was to admin- from blame for alleged compliance failures muda dispute, which is being put into es-
ister the trust structure, and not to make of an overseas unit, or in this case a Singa- crow pending the outcome of an appeal.
any investment decisions. Ivanishvili could pore-based trust through which Ivanishvili
have exercised his power to transfer his as- had hundreds of millions of dollars invested. Still, it has not all been losses for the
sets to another bank, said Lee Eng Beng, bank in its battle with its client, who was
a lawyer for the trust. Lee also argued that Credit Suisse has long argued that it the wealthiest of a clutch of rich individu-
while there were unauthorised payments and its units were in the dark about the als from Russia and neighbouring Georgia
from the trust, some of those were with fraud scheme perpetrated by convicted handled by Lescaudron.
the knowledge of Ivanishvili, who wanted banker Patrice Lescaudron and also that
to expedite the payments. Switzerland is the appropriate forum for The New Zealand High Court dis-
any litigation. Lescaudron was convicted missed Ivanishvili’s case there in 2018,
The dispute with Ivanishvili adds to the at the beginning of 2018 but was released accepting the bank’s argument that Swit-
problems the newly appointed chief exec- from prison late that year on medical leave zerland was the correct jurisdiction.
utive officer Ulrich Koerner and chairman before he took his own life in 2020.
Axel Lehmann are keen to resolve as the ‘Came to the expert’ And although a last-minute appeal to can-
bank reels from reputational hits in the last Ivanishvili, who was once his country’s cel the Singapore trial was rejected in August,
two years.The potentially expensive legal prime minister, began testifyng on Mon- Credit Suisse’s lawyers successfully argued
spat with the Georgian is one of many that day afternoon via video link from Georgia. that any litigation in Singapore should be lim-
still weigh on the bank’s costs, on top of ited to CSTrust and not the bank.
likely restructuring charges amid a strate- Bloomberg
gic review that could see the investment US$800 mil sought
bank drastically reduced. Lawyers for the trust said before the trial that
it “denies that it had failed to take any or any
reasonable steps to protect and safeguard
the assets of the Mandalay Trust” created
for Ivanishvili’s investments.

Credit Suisse itself said it does not com-
ment on ongoing litigation matters.

Ivanishvili’s London lawyers have said
the US$800 million in total they are seek-
ing is a sum derived from misappropriated
assets as well as losses that would not have
been incurred if the money had been pru-
dently invested.They declined to comment
ahead of the trial.

There was a modest overlap in the funds
invested in Bermuda and Singapore and
laws in both jurisdictions would prevent
Ivanishvili from double-dipping in the
event of victory in Singapore.

The Georgian is represented by a team led
by Singapore-based Drew & Napier LLC.
CSTrust is being defended by Allen & Gle-
dhill LLP and Rajah &Tann Singapore LLP.

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BYD sinks as now the world’s second biggest electric-ve- Dubai set to sell
Buffett trims hicle (EV) battery supplier. A year-on-year 20% in road-toll
stake, Daiwa surge in new-energy vehicle sales volume in
predicts full exit August also failed to lift sentiment. firm in third
IPO of the year
by Jeanny Yu “We do expect Berkshire Hathaway to
Bloomberg completely exit its position,” said Kelvin by Archana Narayanan & Julia Fioretti
Lau, an analyst at Daiwa Capital Markets Bloomberg
HONG KONG (Sept 5):Traders offload- Hong Kong Ltd. “Even though we expect
ed more shares of BYD Co on Monday the fundamentals of the company to re- DUBAI (Sept 5):Dubai is selling a 20% stake
after a second filing showed Warren Buf- main solid, we expect the stake sale from in its road-toll collection system in a deal that
fett’s Berkshire Hathaway Inc had further Berkshire Hathaway would impose near- could raise about US$1 billion (RM4.47 bil-
trimmed its stake in the company. term share-price pressure.” lion) for the government, as part of the city’s
ongoing efforts to boost trading volumes.
The Chinese automaker’s stock dropped Theories about Buffett’s plans for the
as much as 6.8% to the lowest level since bellwether Chinese EV company have The emirate will sell 1.5 billion shares in
May 10 in Hong Kong.The sell-off extend- swirled since a 20.49% stake — identi- the company, known as Salik, according to a
ed the shares’ losses to almost 30% since a cal to the size of Berkshire’s last reported statement on Monday.The offering will start
BYD stake that matched Berkshire’s stake BYD position in Hong Kong as of end- on Sept 13, with an expected listing on the
appeared in Hong Kong’s Central Clearing June — entered the Central Clearing and Dubai stock exchange on Sept 29.
and Settlement System in July. Settlement System in July.
Salik’s initial public offering (IPO) will
Berkshire’s waning interest in the stock, Berkshire has now disposed of about test investor appetite after the summer in the
coupled with the prospect of the firm’s even- 18 million BYD shares and it still held an Gulf, which saw record listing proceeds in
tual exit, has outweighed news that BYD is 18.87% stake, or about 207 million shares, the first half. But the elevated oil prices and
as of last Thursday, according to a Hong equity inflows that buoyed regional markets
Kong stock exchange filing. have since come under pressure from con-
Read also: China’s BYD jumps to No 2 cerns about a possible recession.
in global electric-car battery market
“We are fully aware of the economic con-
ditions.We are fully aware of inflation and so
on,” chief executive officer Ibrahim Al Hadd-
ad said.“We are totally confident this will be
very good news when we announce the price
range and it will be received positively by the
investment community.”

The deal is part of wider plans to list 10
state-owned firms in a bid to reverse years
of falling trading volumes and catch up with
neighbouring Abu Dhabi and Saudi Arabia.
Dubai had previously seen just one small IPO
since 2017, while a string of high-profile del-
istings dented investor confidence.

Read the full story

FRANKFURT (Sept 5):Volkswagen AG VW says Porsche roiled markets and triggered an energy
(VW) said the planned initial public offer- listing is on track crisis in Europe.
ing (IPO) of Porsche is on track even as
global markets face deep turmoil amid a as planned The carmaker’s management and su-
worsening energy crisis in Europe. pervisory boards will discuss on Monday
by Christoph Rauwald if the company should go ahead with the
“Things are progressing according to Bloomberg offering at the end of September or early
plan,”VW chief financial officer Arno Ant- October amid upheaval in equity and com-
litz said in a statement published onVW’s rolling out electric cars and software in- modity markets. While a slowing econo-
corporate intranet on Monday. vestments, the IPO is up against some my, rampant inflation, and surging energy
of the worst market conditions in years. costs have largely brought public listings to
“The possible proceeds would give us VW officially started preparing for a list- a standstill, a sale would hand back con-
more flexibility to further accelerate the ing of its most prized asset in February, trol of the iconic automaker to the Por-
transformation,” said Antlitz, who has just before Russia’s invasion of Ukraine sche-Piech family, which are major VW
closely worked on the preparation of what shareholders.
is set to be one of Europe’s biggest share Read the full story
sales ever.

While a listing of Porsche would help
direct funds to VW’s ambitious plans on

t u e s d a y SE P TE M B E R 6 , 2 0 2 2 22 T h e E d g e C E O m o r n i n g b r i e f

world

Claim ofTikTok breach spotlights
viral app’s lure as target

reuters

by Jamie Tarabay
Bloomberg

SINGAPORE (Sept 5): TikTok, the TikTok said the claims close attention to whether the Chinese gov-
short-video sensation that is among the of a breach discovered ernment has access to American customer
world’s most downloaded apps, is coming over the weekend were data.The company has told US lawmak-
under increased scrutiny about its data se- incorrect. “Our security ers that it has taken steps to protect that
curity as it guards the personal information team investigated this data through a contract with Oracle Corp.
of over a billion users. statement and determined
that the code in question “There’s a lot of attention on the way
On Monday, several cybersecurity ana- is completely unrelated TikTok operates and there’s a big gap be-
lysts tweeted about the discovery of what tween how it operates and how it says it
was purportedly a breach of an insecure to TikTok’s back- operates,” said Robert Potter, co-CEO of
server that allowed access toTikTok’s stor- end source code,” a Australian-US cybersecurity firm Inter-
age, which they believe contained person- spokesperson said. net 2.0 Inc.
al user data. Only days earlier, Microsoft
Corp said it had found a “high-severity videos, sending messages, and uploading In July, Potter’s team said in a report
vulnerability” in TikTok’s Android appli- videos on behalf of users”, wrote Dimi- that it had found “excessive data harvest-
cation, “which would have allowed attack- trios Valsamaras from the Microsoft 365 ing” carried out by TikTok on user devic-
ers to compromise users’ accounts with a Defender Research Team. es, that the app checked device location
single click”. at least once an hour and it had code that
A TikTok spokesperson said the com- collected serial numbers for both the de-
ByteDance Ltd’s TikTok surpassed pany had responded quickly to Microsoft’s vice and the SIM card.
a billion monthly users a year ago and findings and fixed the security flaw, which
now ranks as many young people’s fa- was found “in some older versions of the The report received wide attention
vourite app. That makes it an enticing Android app”. in Australia, and Clare O’Neil, the new
target for hackers who may seek to hijack Minister for Home Affairs, announced on
popular accounts or resell sensitive in- However inconclusive or small the is- Monday that she has ordered her depart-
formation. It was identified as a privacy sues may be, there will be intense focus ment to investigate what data TikTok ac-
threat by the Trump administration in on TikTok and its parent firm at a time quires and who can access it.
2020 and was nearly banned because of when the US may step up its measures
concern about potential links between against businesses with links to China. In “We’ve got this basic problem here
its Beijing-based parent company and June, nine US senators wrote a public letter where we’ve got technology companies
the Chinese government. to TikTok’s chief executive officer, asking that are based in countries with a more au-
him to explain alleged security breaches. thoritarian approach to the private sector,”
TikTok said the claims of a breach O’Neil said in emailed remarks. “TikTok
discovered over the weekend were incor- President Joe Biden is expected to sign is not the beginning and the end of this.
rect. “Our security team investigated this an executive order that would restrict US It’s one of the very large number of issues
statement and determined that the code investment in Chinese tech companies that’s given rise to by these very dominant
in question is completely unrelated toTik- and separate action targeting TikTok is a technology companies and the role they
Tok’s back-end source code,” a spokes- possibility, with the administration paying are playing in our lives.”
person said. Read also: China says US hacked aero-
nautics, space research university
Troy Hunt, an Australian web securi-
ty consultant, went through some of the
data samples listed in the leaked files and
found matches between user profiles and
videos posted under those IDs. But some
details included in the leak were “publicly
accessible data that could have been con-
structed without breach”.

“This is so far pretty inconclusive; some
data matches production info, albeit pub-
licly accessible info. Some data is junk, but
it could be non-production or test data,”
he posted onTwitter. “It’s a bit of a mixed
bag so far.”

The vulnerability identified by Micro-
soft is a narrower issue that could have af-
fected mobile phones running Android. It
may have allowed attackers to access and
modify “TikTok profiles and sensitive in-
formation, such as by publicising private

t u e s d a y SE P TE M B E R 6 , 2 0 2 2 23 T h e E d g e C E O m o r n i n g b r i e f

world

Singapore hotel
prices hit 10-year
high as city roars

back to life

by Natalie Choy
Bloomberg

(Sept 5): Hotel rooms in Singapore are up from 543,733 in June, according to Conference and several crypto events in
now the most expensive in almost a dec- the tourism board.This growth is likely to September, followed by gamescom asia
ade, as the city state seeks to position itself hold, as the country plays host to a grow- in October.
as the tourism and business destination ing number of international business and
in Asia, with a slew of high-profile events sporting events. The reopening comes as regional travel
lined up for the coming months. hub rival Hong Kong continues to require
Preparation is in the works for the For- three days of hotel quarantine for incom-
At S$259 (US$184 or RM827) a night, mula One Grand Prix from Sept 30 to Oct ing visitors.
the average hotel room rate in July rose 2, after a two-year hiatus.This year’s night
nearly 70% year-on-year to the highest race is set to see its biggest turnout since In the first three months of 2022, Sin-
since September 2012, as visitor arrivals the inaugural event in 2008, with tickets gapore hosted more than 150 local and in-
continued to accelerate amid easing Cov- expected to sell out, Singapore’sTransport ternational events attended by over 37,000
id-19 restrictions, the latest data from the Minister S Iswaran told local media at a people, according to the tourism board.
Singapore Tourism Board showed. community event in August.
About four million to six million visitors
Even as prices climb, luxurious stays in Away from the track, the entertainment are expected in 2022.The nation saw 1.5
the Southeast Asian nation are still cheaper line-up includes performances byWestlife million visitor arrivals in the first half of
than in some of its big-city peers. and Green Day. Other big names in enter- 2022, nearly 12 times more compared to
tainment coming to Singapore later this the same period last year, the board said.
A five-star hotel in Singapore charges an year include Justin Bieber, Maroon Five
average of S$344 per night, compared with and Guns N’ Roses. Indonesia, India, Malaysia, Austral-
S$387 in Hong Kong, S$522 in Tokyo and ia and the Philippines were the top five
S$584 in London,according to data fromTrip. Singapore will also host the Milken In- visitor markets, accounting for 56% of
com. Meanwhile, a five-star hotel costs S$318 stitute Asia Summit, Forbes Global CEO Singapore’s total visitor arrivals in the
per night in Sydney and S$256 in Seoul. first half.

Visitor arrivals in Singapore rose for the
sixth straight month in July to 726,601,

(Sept 5):Thailand’s Constitutional Court Thai court to In a written defence statement submit-
will meet on Thursday to consider a pe- consider PM term ted to the Constitutional Court onThurs-
tition challenging Prayuth Chan-Ocha’s day, Prayuth argued his premiership didn’t
ability to stay on as prime minister after limit plea after start in 2014, according to Deputy Prime
the former coup leader pushed back on Prayuth pushback Minister Wissanu Krea-Ngam.
claims his term began in 2014.
by Patpicha Tanakasempipat “The exact determination is a matter for
The nine-member court will hold a spe- Bloomberg the court, but it was specified clearly that the
cial meeting to review statements furnished start date wasn’t Aug 24, 2014,”Wissanu told
by Prayuth’s legal team and others involved reporters on Sunday.“It couldn’t be said ex-
in the drafting of the 2017 military-backed actly when the counting should start from.”
charter, local newspaper Thairath reported
on Monday, without saying where it got While the court had unanimously ac-
the information. cepted the opposition plea on the term
limit, it made a split decision to tempo-
The court will determine whether the ev- rarily suspend Prayuth, saying there was
idence is sufficient to set a date for a ruling, some merit to the petition.
Thairath reported. Officials at the court’s
public relations department couldn’t im- The court challenge, which could lead to
mediately be reached for comment. different scenarios including Prayuth being
declared ineligible to hold the premier job,
Prayuth ceased performing his prime is based on a debate over whether his years
ministerial duties on Aug 24 when the top as junta leader before the current charter
court suspended him following a petition became effective in 2017 should be counted.
from the opposition.The suspension stays
until the court determines whether he vi- After being named prime minister of
olated an eight-year term limit, which his a military government in 2014 following
opponents say began after he seized power a coup, Prayuth stayed on to lead a new
in a May 2014 coup. civilian administration headed by a mili-
tary-backed party after an election in 2019.

t u e s d a y SE P TE M B E R 6 , 2 0 2 2 24 T h e E d g e C E O m o r n i n g b r i e f

world

news In brief

bloomberg HSBC trims China debt team in
Hong Kong amid deal slump
China’s drought-stricken Sichuan
jolted by deadly earthquake HONG KONG (Sept 5): HSBC Holdings plc
is trimming the number of bankers focused
(Sept 5): A 6.8-magnitude earthquake on Chinese debt issuance amid a slump
in bond deals from the world’s second-
killed at least seven people in Sichuan largest economy. Two vice presidents, who
covered China debt markets, are leaving
province on Monday, in the latest blow the firm, according to people familiar with
the matter. With that the Hong Kong-based
to the region in southwestern China hit team covering Greater China debt capital
markets will shrink to one managing director
by Covid-19 lockdowns and a historic and five directors, said the people, asking
not to be named speaking on personnel
drought. The quake struck in Luding issues. A spokeswoman for HSBC declined
to comment. Despite the cuts, the lender
county in western Sichuan, about 226km maintains one of the largest China debt
capital market groups among global banks.
west of the provincial capital of Chengdu. It combined the China investment grade and
high-yield teams into a single unit earlier
The shaking damaged houses and this year as deal flow from Chinese junk
borrowers dried up. — Bloomberg
triggered landslides, blocking some roads

and disrupting power and phone lines,

CCTV reported. Tremors were felt in Chengdu, as well as further east in Chongqing.

The quake comes in the aftermath of a heat wave and drought that caused surging

power demand and reduced hydropower generation in the region, leading to

widespread power cuts to factories last month. Power was only restored last week

when rainfall brought cooler temperatures to the region. Chengdu has also suffered

from a Covid-19 outbreak. The city, with a population of about 21 million people,

has been under lockdown since Thursday. — Bloomberg

South Korea warns of casualties as Sembcorp to sell India coal power Read the full story
super typhoon approaches business for US$1.5 bil
SEOUL (Sept 5): South Korea’s weather NEW DELHI (Sept 5): Sembcorp Industries bloomberg
agency has warned there could be Ltd will sell its India coal power business
casualties as the nation prepares for for 117 billion rupees (US$1.5 billion) to Thai inflation at new 14-year high
the most powerful storm in its history Oman’s Tanweer Infrastructure Pte Ltd, the boosts case for rate hike
to make landfall early on Tuesday. Oil Singapore-based energy producer said, as it
refiners to chemical operations and the seeks to decarbonize its portfolio. Sembcorp, BANGKOK (Sept 5): Thailand’s inflation
nation’s oldest nuclear power plant began which operates two coal-fired plants in India accelerated to a fresh 14-year high
taking precautions with super typhoon with a combined capacity of 2.6 gigawatts, in August, supporting the case for
Hinnamnor expected to hammer the said in an exchange filing on Monday that the central bank to continue with its
resort island of Jeju and the key industrial the sale of the business will accelerate monetary policy tightening. The consumer
city of Ulsan on the country’s southeast its shift from “brown to green”. Tanweer, price index rose 7.86% last month from
coast after disrupting ports and air which will become the sole shareholder a year ago, the most since July 2008, the
traffic across China and Japan. “We’re of the India thermal business, will pay via Commerce Ministry said on Monday.
now entering a phase where we have to deferred payment notes issued by Sembcorp, Core inflation, which strips out volatile
minimise casualties,” Han Sang Un, the according to the statement. — Bloomberg food and fuel items, was 3.15% in August
chief forecaster at Korea Meteorological and quickening steadily since the start
Administration, said during a briefing on Read the full story of the year. While both data were below
Monday, urging residents of southern most economists’ estimates, the rates
coastal areas to remain indoors, rather Taiwan to resume visa-free travel were well above the Bank of Thailand
than to continue making last-minute but keep quarantine for now (BOT)’s 1%-3% target range. The inflation
preparations for the storm’s arrival. “It’s (Sept 5): Taiwan will resume visa-free print is the last before the central bank’s
a massive typhoon with a 400-kilometre entry for travellers from countries it next policy meeting on Sept 28. BOT
radius, which is big enough to cover Seoul currently shares diplomatic ties with Governor Sethaput Suthiwartnarueput, at
to Busan. Most regions in Korea will but will maintain a three-day quarantine a separate briefing on Monday, reiterated
experience intense rain and wind,” he said. requirement as the island takes halting that the rate-panel will stick with its
The typhoon is likely to impact Jeju at about steps towards easing its Covid restrictions. gradual and measured policy tightening
1am local time on Tuesday, and southern Arrivals from more than 60 countries — path and that it’s not appropriate for
coastal cities at about 7am, according to including the US, UK and Australia — are Thailand to follow the Federal Reserve’s
the administration. — Bloomberg eligible for visa-free entry starting Sept aggressive stance. — Bloomberg
12, though the duration of their permitted
Read the full story stay varies, Taiwan’s Bureau of Consular
Affairs said in a statement on its website
Read also:Toyota to suspend production Monday. A weekly arrivals cap of 50,000
at three western Japan plants as typhoon people and requirements for arrivals to
nears undergo saliva tests will also remain in
place in Taiwan for now. — Bloomberg

T U E S D A Y S E P T E M B E R 6 , 2 0 2 2 25 T H E E D G E C E O M O R N I N G B R I E F

WORLD

Baltic Exchange shipping updates

A weekly round-up of tanker and dry bulk market (Sept 2, 2022)

CAPESIZE

The Capesize market continues to strug- ULTRAMAX/SUPRAMAX a 35,000-dwt fixed from Laem Chabang
gle as demand for iron ore remains weak. The US Gulf was said to have seen the via Indonesia to East Coast India at
Vessels in the Atlantic have had difficul- tonnage list grow. An Ultramax was ru- US$18,000. A 34,000-dwt open in Chit-
ties finding cargo, while those available moured to have been placed on sub- tagong was fixed for three to five months
have been fought over with prices div- jects for a trip from SW Pass to Sin- at US$18,850 with worldwide redelivery.
ing as a result. The Transatlantic C8 gapore-Japan range in the high teens, CLEAN
bottomed out this week at US$944, as but further information is yet to sur- It’s been a bit of a mixed week for CPP
much speculation swirled as to how low face. In East Coast South America, an vessels, with the BCTI falling by -93 points
the route may go.The C8 closed the week Ultramax was rumoured to have been to 1192. In the Middle East Gulf, LR2s of
at US$2,367. As several Capesize ves- placed on subjects for transatlantic busi- TC1, 75k Middle East Gulf/Japan man-
sels have gone into hot layup at strate- ness at around US$28,000. In Asia, a aged to hold on to the gains of previous
gic locations, scrubber-fitted vessels have 63,000-dwt was fixed from North Chi- weeks, finishing marginally up 2.5 points to
continued to trade as normal due to the na via Indonesia to West Coast India at WS74.88. LR1s also held their ground and
high and low sulphur bunker spread com- US$15,500. A 58,000-dwt open in South TC5 55k Middle East Gulf/Japan climbed
manding a strong premium. In the Pa- East Asia was fixed via Indonesia to Chi- to WS305, up 5.71 points.
cific, cargo flow has been patchy yet has na at US$17,000. In the Arabian Gulf, a
improved towards the end of the week. 56,000-dwt open in Dammam was fixed On MRs,TC17, 35kt Middle East Gulf/
This has seen West Australia to China via the Arabian Gulf to Bangladesh in the East Africa continued to strengthen this
C5 lift to settle at US$8.885, while the high teens, but further details are yet to week, with rates climbing 96.66 points to
Transpacific C10 closed at US$10,445. emerge. A 63,000-dwt was fixed for four WS515.83 (A TCE of US$56,965 pd).
The Capesize 5TC marked at US$2505 to seven months with redelivery Arabian West of Suez on the LR2s, TC15, the
on Wednesday, which was close to an all- Gulf-Japan range at US$19,000. 80k Mediterranean/Japan run contin-
time low. A small reprieve as additional HANDYSIZE ued its strong climb from US$3.916m to
West Australia and Brazil cargo has lift- A turbulent week across all regions, with a increase by US$300k and finishing the
ed the index up to US$6076 by week’s general lack of fresh enquiry still a major week at US$4.216m, resulting in a TCE
end. However, the market is far from ful- factor in what has been a negative market of US$18,890 /day.
ly resuscitated, as trading levels still flirt in recent weeks. InThe US Gulf, numbers
slightly above operating expense levels. have fallen with a 36,000-dwt fixing for a The LR1s of TC16, 60k Amsterdam/
trip from Panama City, Florida to Den- Offshore Lomé, has increased by 8.57
PANAMAX mark at US$15,750. Meanwhile, a 34,000- points to WS237, a TCE of US$38,355.
It has proved to be a tale of two halves dwt was rumoured to have been placed on On the UK-Continent, MRs of TC2 and
for the Panamax market. The week fol- subjects for a trip from Galveston to Puer- TC19 have both eased off, with gains from
lowed on from the previous with funda- to Cabello at around US$12,000. In East previous weeks being reversed asTC2 came
mentals unchanged and an ever-growing Coast South America, a 38,000-dwt was off -16.11 points to finish at WS208.33.
tonnage count, which led to nearby and rumoured to have been placed on sub- TC19 lost -13.11 to finish at WS218.93.
committed tonnage discounting heavily jects for a trip from Recalada toWest Coast
in order to get fixed. But by midweek South America at around US$26,000.The The USG MR market has seen steady
there were signs of a turnaround in for- Continent has also softened with a 34,000- increases with TC14, 38k US Gulf/
tunes. As FFA values rose, dragging with dwt fixing from Skaw via the Lower Bal- UK-Continent up 3.33 points toWS147.5
it some resistance from owners, better tic to West Africa at US$13,250. In Asia, andTC18, the MR US Gulf/Brazil trip also
bids followed and levels in some parts gained 4.17 points to WS214.17.
saw obvious improvements. East Coast
South America returned an APS plus Read the full report
ballast bonus market and rates improved
on this basis. Figures of US$15,000 +
US$500,000 were around average for the
early part, with talk of bids now being
around the US$16,000 + US$600,000
mark for slightly earlier than index lay-
can. Asia was largely Indonesia centric.
Typhoon Hinnamnor had a slight impact
in the North of the region. Rates on the
Indonesia round trip returned a mean
average of US$13,500 on the week with
a decent level of fixing.

T U E S D A Y S E P T E M B E R 6 , 2 0 2 2 26 T H E E D G E C E O M O R N I N G B R I E F

MARKETS

CPO RM 3,916.001.00 OIL US$ 96.283.26 RM/USD 4.4920 RM/SGD 3.1955 RM/AUD 3.0517 RM/GBP 5.1633 RM/EUR 4.4567

Top 20 active stocks

NAME VOLUME CHANGE CLOSE YTD MARKET
(MIL) (RM) CHANGE CAP
(%) (RM MIL)

SNS NETWORK TECHNOLOGY BHD 135.40 -0.005 0.260 0 419.3

VORTEX CONSOLIDATED BHD 113.40 0.000 0.165 153.85 181.8

JADE MARVEL GROUP BHD 52.30 0.025 0.290 -56.06 95.1

AIMFLEX BHD 45.50 0.000 0.125 -13.79 183.6

FOCUS DYNAMICS GROUP BHD 39.70 -0.005 0.015 -62.50 95.6

TOP GLOVE CORP BHD 34.50 0.015 0.820 -68.34 6,566.0

SOUTH MALAYSIA INDUSTRIES 34.00 -0.260 0.255 27.50 53.5

MY EG SERVICES BHD 32.00 0.010 0.810 -24.30 5,978.2

METRONIC GLOBAL BHD 31.60 -0.005 0.075 -38.56 114.8 World equity indices

INFOLINE TEC GROUP BHD 31.30 0.035 0.430 0.00 156.2

HARTALEGA HOLDINGS BHD 30.30 -0.070 1.590 -72.25 5,433.8 CLOSE CHANGE CHANGE CLOSE CHANGE CHANGE
(%)
HIBISCUS PETROLEUM BHD 28.60 0.040 1.050 28.83 2,113.0 (%) INDONESIA 7,231.88 54.70 0.76
DOW JONES 31,318.44 -337.98 -1.07 JAPAN 27,619.61 -31.23 -0.11
HEXTAR INDUSTRIES BHD 25.20 -0.005 0.405 153.13 464.7 KOREA 2,403.68 -5.73 -0.24
PHILIPPINES 6,676.04 -16.61 -0.25
VELESTO ENERGY BHD 21.90 0.005 0.085 -29.17 698.3 S&P 500 3,924.26 -42.59 -1.07 SINGAPORE 3,215.48 9.79 0.31
TAIWAN 14,661.10 -11.94 -0.08
DAGANG NEXCHANGE BHD 21.60 0.000 0.810 6.58 2,556.6 NASDAQ 100 12,098.44 -176.19 -1.44 THAILAND 1,622.00 -0.15 -0.01
VIETNAM 1,277.35 -3.16 -0.25
SAPURA ENERGY BHD 19.70 -0.005 0.045 -10.00 719.1 FTSE 100 7,235.98 -45.21 -0.62
Source: Bloomberg
MESTRON HOLDINGS BHD 19.30 0.000 0.370 8.82 344.3 AUSTRALIA 6,852.22 23.51 0.34

UMEDIC GROUP BHD 19.20 -0.005 0.645 0 241.2 CHINA 3,199.91 13.43 0.42

BCM ALLIANCE BHD 18.20 -0.005 0.020 -33.33 40.7 HONG KONG 19,225.70 -226.39 -1.16

NWP HOLDINGS BHD 18.10 0.005 0.230 -6.12 124.0 INDIA 59,245.98 442.65 0.75

Data as compiled on Sep 5, 2022 Source: Bloomberg Data as compiled on Sep 5, 2022

Top gainers (ranked by %) Top losers (ranked by %)

NAME CLOSE CHANGE VOLUME YTD MARKET NAME CLOSE CHANGE VOLUME YTD MARKET
(%) (‘000) CHANGE CAP (%) (‘000) CHANGE CAP
(%) (RM MIL) (%) (RM MIL)

XOX BHD 0.020 33.33 1,129.0 -33.33 101.0 SOUTH MALAYSIA INDUSTRIES 0.255 -50.49 34,021.6 27.50 53.5

AE MULTI HOLDINGS BHD 0.020 33.33 41.2 -33.33 43.3 ANZO HOLDINGS BHD 0.010 -33.33 70.0 -66.67 11.2

SCOMI ENERGY SERVICES BHD 0.025 25.00 60.0 -54.55 11.7 EDUSPEC HOLDINGS BHD 0.015 -25.00 1,146.6 0.00 45.7

TAS OFFSHORE BHD 0.230 21.05 0.6 -9.80 40.2 FOCUS DYNAMICS GROUP BHD 0.015 -25.00 39,650.5 -62.50 95.6

SERBA DINAMIK HOLDINGS BHD 0.030 20.00 17,599.1 -91.43 111.3 TALAM TRANSFORM BHD 0.015 -25.00 122.4 -25.00 64.4

GDB HOLDINGS BHD 0.185 15.63 14,256.1 -57.95 173.4 BCM ALLIANCE BHD 0.020 -20.00 18,223.6 -33.33 40.7

SILVER RIDGE HOLDINGS BHD 0.085 13.33 34.7 -58.54 16.7 BTM RESOURCES BHD 0.100 -16.67 33.5 -39.39 17.1

SMRT HOLDINGS BHD 0.135 12.50 1,288.3 22.73 60.1 BARAKAH OFFSHORE PETROLEUM 0.025 -16.67 2,393.2 -68.75 25.1

MTOUCHE TECHNOLOGY BHD 0.045 12.50 49.6 -50.00 41.7 GRAND CENTRAL ENTERPRISES 0.320 -15.79 1.0 -4.48 63.0

ILB GROUP BHD 0.490 11.36 20.0 30.67 92.6 ALAM MARITIM RESOURCES BHD 0.030 -14.29 675.2 20.00 46.0

HANDAL ENERGY BHD 0.150 11.11 96.1 -25.00 36.1 TECHNA-X BHD 0.030 -14.29 9,659.9 -60.00 66.4

TRIVE PROPERTY GROUP BHD 0.050 11.11 191.8 66.67 63.2 WMG HOLDINGS BHD 0.090 -14.29 128.3 -5.26 40.0

SHIN YANG SHIPPING CORP BHD 0.700 11.11 13,739.0 112.12 803.2 MMAG HOLDINGS BHD 0.035 -12.50 760.1 -53.33 59.6

EURO HOLDINGS BHD 0.105 10.53 8,793.8 -78.35 92.6 REACH ENERGY BHD 0.035 -12.50 39.9 -41.67 38.4

SYF RESOURCES BHD 0.270 10.20 1,236.1 -8.47 153.6 SEAL INC BHD 0.220 -12.00 9.5 -26.67 62.3

PLENITUDE BHD 1.100 10.00 193.1 4.76 419.7 GOPENG BHD 0.375 -11.76 94.2 -8.54 151.3

TWL HOLDINGS BHD 0.055 10.00 15,796.2 10.00 202.8 SMTRACK BHD 0.040 -11.11 424.0 -78.95 33.8

PAN MALAYSIA CORP BHD 0.165 10.00 3,074.8 37.50 127.3 CSH ALLIANCE BHD 0.040 -11.11 635.5 -57.89 55.3

DRB-HICOM BHD 1.550 9.93 6,497.5 8.39 2996.5 LAMBO GROUP BHD 0.045 -10.00 22.9 -47.06 69.3

JADE MARVEL GROUP BHD 0.290 9.43 52,299.8 -56.06 95.1 MINETECH RESOURCES BHD 0.045 -10.00 243.60 -55 53.5

Data as compiled on Sep 5, 2022 Source: Bloomberg Data as compiled on Sep 5, 2022 Source: Bloomberg

Top gainers (ranked by RM) Top losers (ranked by RM)

NAME CLOSE CHANGE VOLUME YTD MARKET NAME CLOSE CHANGE VOLUME YTD MARKET
(RM) (‘000) CHANGE CAP (RM) (‘000) CHANGE CAP
(%) (RM MIL) (%) (RM MIL)

UNITED PLANTATIONS BHD 15.280 0.420 372.0 11.48 6,315.2 MALAYSIAN PACIFIC INDUSTRIES 29.040 -0.560 312.2 -41.17 5,776.0

PERUSAHAAN SADUR TIMAH 4.520 0.310 133.1 14.72 583.5 PETRONAS DAGANGAN BHD 21.100 -0.500 227.9 2.43 20,961.9

AJINOMOTO MALAYSIA BHD 11.940 0.260 6.7 -22.47 725.9 SOUTH MALAYSIA INDUSTRIES 0.255 -0.260 34,021.6 27.50 53.5

PANASONIC MANUFACTURING 26.500 0.200 4.9 -8.30 1,609.8 HARRISONS HOLDINGS MALAYSIA 5.720 -0.230 4.7 19.17 391.7

PMB TECHNOLOGY BHD 3.910 0.150 2,937.8 59.20 4,892.7 AEON CREDIT SERVICE M BHD 13.980 -0.200 8.1 3.02 3,569.2

DRB-HICOM BHD 1.550 0.140 6,497.5 8.39 2,996.5 PETRONAS GAS BHD 17.060 -0.200 107.4 -4.66 33,757.2

GAS MALAYSIA BHD 3.540 0.130 6,773.2 33.58 4,545.4 HONG LEONG FINANCIAL GROUP 19.100 -0.160 53.9 10.15 21,874.2

HONG LEONG INDUSTRIES BHD 9.200 0.120 9.2 0.22 2,939.1 KUALA LUMPUR KEPONG BHD 22.300 -0.140 291.6 2.39 24,042.9

PRESS METAL ALUMINIUM HOLDINGS 4.720 0.110 2112.0 -18.34 38,891.0 TENAGA NASIONAL BHD 8.610 -0.140 1,911.2 -7.82 49,534.0

SCIENTEX PACKAGING AYER KEROH 2.300 0.110 20.0 -4.17 806.4 VITROX CORP BHD 7.150 -0.130 183.6 -28.21 6,754.2

HONG LEONG BANK BHD 20.900 0.100 1,366.1 12.24 45,305.3 BINTULU PORT HOLDINGS BHD 5.120 -0.130 12.6 6.67 2,355.2

PLENITUDE BHD 1.100 0.100 193.1 4.76 419.7 BATU KAWAN BHD 23.180 -0.100 4.1 2.11 9,122.8

SIME DARBY PLANTATION BHD 4.250 0.100 1,380.0 13.03 29,391.8 TELEKOM MALAYSIA BHD 5.800 -0.100 4,745.2 5.45 21,968.5

CARLSBERG BREWERY MALAYSIA 22.900 0.080 93.2 14.04 7,001.6 RHONG KHEN INTERNATIONAL 1.360 -0.090 18.1 -17.58 264.3

MBM RESOURCES BHD 3.580 0.080 571.8 15.40 1,399.4 KESM INDUSTRIES BHD 7.200 -0.080 7.4 -41.37 309.7

RAPID SYNERGY BHD 13.18 0.080 5.5 32.46 1,408.9 PPB GROUP BHD 17.360 -0.080 122.6 1.52 24,696.3

TIME DOTCOM BHD 4.760 0.080 1,633.4 4.06 8742.1 PIMPINAN EHSAN BHD 1.180 -0.080 28 -19.18 81.6

SAM ENGINEERING & EQUIPMENT 4.330 0.070 166.7 -22.68 2344.3 BLD PLANTATION BHD 8.800 -0.070 0.1 -2.33 822.8

SHIN YANG SHIPPING CORP BHD 0.700 0.070 13739 112.12 803.2 HARTALEGA HOLDINGS BHD 1.590 -0.070 30,314.0 -72.25 5,433.8

ALLIANCE BANK MALAYSIA BHD 3.700 0.070 3748.8 29.37 5728 PCCS GROUP BHD 0.590 -0.060 3862.6 34.09 126

Data as compiled on Sep 5, 2022 Source: Bloomberg Data as compiled on Sep 5, 2022 Source: Bloomberg

INSIDE

TELLING IT AS IT IS Education system Steps to avoid

2page needs revamp, 3page Sri Lanka
says expert predicament

ON TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 6, 2022 COURTING ATTENTION ...

No. 8102 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195) www.thesundaily.my A peacock spreading its tail feathers to attract the
attention of visitors at the Kuala Lumpur Bird Park
yesterday. The park is expecting more visitors this
week as students go on their second term break.
– ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN

Mixed reaction
█ BY ASHIQIN ARIFFIN oBusiness operators say people
[email protected] responsible enough on when to wear
face masks
PETALING JAYA: Malaysians
have expressed mixed reactions Malaysian Indian Restaurant Owners crowded area.
to the possible withdrawal of Association president J. Suresh said Ainal said as Malaysia is now in the
the face mask mandate, many restaurateurs would welcome the
expected to be announced by Health withdrawal of the mask ruling. transition to endemic phase, there are
Minister Khairy Jamaluddin tomorrow. certain things that Malaysians need to
He said it was time to relax the do to return to normalcy, as most of
Malaysian Association of Hotels requirement as other countries made it the population have been vaccinated.
president Christina Toh said many optional some time ago, and people
operators do not favour a decision to should have the freedom to decide “I think withdrawing the mask
stop wearing masks. whether they want to wear one. mandate is a great move that could help
in ensuring cleanliness and
She said hotels are considered public Suresh also said he believes sustainability by reducing the amount
areas where employees come into close Malaysians are responsible enough to of discarded masks.”
contact with different people daily, and mask up if they are not feeling well or
thus have a higher health risk compared have flu-like symptoms. She also said Malaysians should
with guests. know when and where to wear a mask
“There are many who wear their and be conscious and aware of their
Toh, who is area general manager of masks on their necks or just covering surroundings.
an international hotel chain in their mouth, which is pointless. You can
Malaysia, said she would continue to also see used masks on the table and on Content specialist Rebecca Hani
encourage her staff to wear masks. the floor, which is unhygienic,” Suresh Romeli, 32, said with a high percentage
added. of Malaysians having been inoculated,
She said many hotel staff would she is hopeful of a return to normalcy.
choose to wear masks anyway for their Local start-up research writer Ainal
own safety and that of their families. Ismail, 27, said she is happy the country “There are many countries that
might be easing up on the requirement. (abolished) the mask mandate and their
“If the mask mandate is withdrawn, citizens are living life like normal.
we would place signs around the hotel She concurred on the need for
area to inform guests and visitors that people to wear one when necessary, “I believe the number of Covid-19
wearing masks is greatly appreciated. especially if they are ill or in a cases (in Malaysia) is not too bad and
are still manageable,” she said.
“Covid-19 is still very much with us.
We know people who got infected
multiple times, and we have even lost a
colleague because of it. That’s why we
are not taking any chances.”

2 theSUN ON TUESDAY | SEPTEMBER 6, 2022
NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS

No privileges, exceptions under Islamic justice: King RM392b needed
for long-term
KUANTAN: Islamic justice does not give any “Based on the same principle, syariah on Sept 23 last year. flood mitigation
privilege or exception to anyone who courts must also be wise in using Al-Sultan Abdullah added that the power
commits wrongdoing, even if it involves close discretionary powers and be always fair to all KUALA LUMPUR: The Environment and
friends, family members or parents, said the parties when sentencing, especially those to punish and pardon should not be used Water Ministry estimates that an allocation
Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah involving family cases. arbitrarily because it would be accounted for of RM392 billion will be needed as a
Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah. in the “afterlife”. long-term solution to the country’s flood
“If the law is not implemented consistently problems in the next 78 years.
He said the principle of Islamic justice and fairly, justice will certainly not be The King also reminded syariah judges to
does not allow any form of injustice, achieved as the philosophy behind the ensure that cases are handled fairly and Its minister Datuk Seri Tuan Ibrahim
including towards those disliked. enactment of a law would have been tainted, judgments are not delayed. Tuan Man said the government’s
and as a result, the disadvantaged party seriousness in dealing with climate change
The King said the upholding of justice would end up being victimised by those in He called on court officials and syariah issues was demonstrated through large
without favouritism that was practised power,” he said at the opening of the Pahang lawyers to facilitate the smooth running of investments in the country’s water sector.
successfully raised the dignity of Islam during Syariah Court Complex yesterday. court proceedings.
the time of Prophet Muhammad. He said it included an “off budget”
The construction of the complex, officially Al-Sultan Abdullah also expressed hope allocation of RM15 billion for a period of
“The principle of justice that is transparent named Kompleks Syariah Al-Sultan that the concept of diyat, or financial eight years from 2023 to 2030 for flood
also succeeded in developing a just, fair and Abdullah, began on June 22, 2015 involving a compensation to the kin of victims, that he mitigation projects as well as the
prosperous society. The principle of justice cost of RM44.75 million, and was completed had proposed over the past few years, could construction of “sabo structures” in critical
according to Islam is upholding God’s trust. be studied and implemented in Pahang, and areas severely affected by the north-east
eventually the rest of the country. – Bernama monsoon.

Education system needs “For long-term measures up to 2100, the
revamp, says expert ministry estimates an allocation of RM392
billion is needed.”
o ‘With globalisation, technological evolution and changing “We must go back to the basics and get the
workforce, learning should be on par with international standards’ students to master reading, writing, arithmetic, He said the estimate includes funds for
and social skills in both English and Bahasa flood mitigation and urban drainage
█ BY SURAYA ALI as the workforce have changed so much that we Malaysia.” amounting to RM230.71 billion and coastal
[email protected] need to ensure that our education system is on infrastructure totalling RM126.55 billion.
PETALING JAYA: Malaysia’s education system par with international standards and prepares He added that mastering both languages in
has been in the news of late, and often for the students for their future,” he told theSun. Primary 1, and before the age of nine, must be He was speaking yesterday at the Climate
wrong reasons. the focus of the education system. Change Symposium 2022 organised by the
But the question is what kind of changes are Opposition Chief ’s office with the
Prioritising Bahasa Malaysia as the national needed and at which levels should there be “This is to ensure all students have the Cooperation Office of the Dewan Rakyat
language while giving due emphasis to English changes in the education system. same opportunity to learn both languages at a Speaker and Parliament.
has been a topic of debate for several years now. young age.”
Anuar said all levels require changes, and Tuan Ibrahim said the ministry is
Parents and experts have voiced concern such changes need to continue to the next Changes must not focus on reducing the committed to ensuring the well-being of the
about how students have become the education level. subjects taught in schools, but they must ensure people through mid and long-term
Education Ministry’s test subjects as the students aged between seven and nine can measures, including development plans for
education policy has changed too often in the “It starts from primary school, where there master the five basic skills in both English and infrastructure protection, particularly those
past 10 years. are two phases. Primary 1 is for students in Bahasa Malaysia before they move on to the involving water related disasters.
standards 1 to 3 and Primary 2 is for students in next phase of their education.
Experts say it is critical for the public to know standards 4 to 6. “The ministry is also drafting details for
the current developments in our education He said with the basic skills inculcated in the implementation of climate change
system, and that changes are needed. “I suggest for Primary 1, we must focus on them, their studies in the next phase will be adaptation. The rise in global temperatures
five main skills, which are reading, writing, easier and more interesting, encouraging them will further increase the risk of disasters and
Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Centre of arithmetic, moral studies and social skills,” he to be keen on their studies. have a direct impact on the well-being of the
Community Education and Well-being lecturer said, adding that other subjects can be taught in people and the economy.”
Dr Anuar Ahmad said Malaysians must Primary 2. Former primary school teacher Hayati Yusoff
understand that the world is developing agreed with Anuar’s recommendations and said On a separate matter, Tuan Ibrahim said
continuously with the evolution of technology. Anuar added that the education system now it would not only help students but also PAS has yet to finalise the number of
is too focused on unnecessary elements that can teachers. parliamentary seats it intends to contest in
“Globalisation, the internet evolution, as well be taught at a different phase of students’ the 15th general election.
education. “The move will reduce the burden on
teachers because they will be able to focus on He said all decisions regarding the matter
the basic skills students need.” have to be discussed by the party leadership.

Hayati said she found some subjects and Responding to media reports that PAS
syllabi taught to Primary 1 students an “overkill”. has set its sights on 80 parliamentary seats,
he said that was merely the figure for seats
Free cancer screening for women police personnel the party is looking at currently.

KUALA LUMPUR: All women police Women, Family and Community She said the ministry, through the National “The exact figure will be discussed by the
personnel in the country, especially those aged Development Minister Datuk Seri Rina Harun Population and Family Development Board, is party. Perikatan Nasional has yet to decide
40 and above who fall in the high-risk category, said the programme under the Women’s carrying out the programme as a gesture of (on seats it wants to contest).”
will be given free mammogram tests to detect Reproductive Cancer Awareness campaign is appreciation for their services.
breast cancer as well as cervical cancer also extended to the wives of police personnel He was commenting on PAS election
screenings via human papillomavirus and retired police personnel, with priority given She was speaking after attending a cancer director Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md
DNA tests. to those with a family history of the disease. awareness campaign at the police college in Nor’s statement on Sunday that the party is
Cheras yesterday. – Bernama targeting 80 parliamentary seats in the
coming elections. – Bernama
PROUD MOMENT ...
Thirty people of Siamese Najib still Pekan
descent received their MP, says Dewan
identity cards under Rakyat speaker
‘Program Mekar Bersama
Masyarakat Siam’ from KUALA LUMPUR: Former prime minister
Home Minister Datuk Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak is still Pekan
Seri Hamzah Zainudin at MP, said Dewan Rakyat speaker Tan Sri
the Perlis correctional Azhar Azizan Harun.
centre in Arau yesterday.
– BERNAMAPIX He said this is in view of the pardon
petition filed by Najib under Article 42 of the
Federal Constitution last Friday, which was
within 14 days of the Federal Court’s
decision.

“Therefore, his disqualification as an MP
will only take effect as soon as the pardon
petition is settled (if the petition is rejected).

“This means that the status of the
Honourable Datuk Seri Mohd Najib Tun
Abdul Razak as Pekan MP has not changed
for now, and will only be finalised when the
pardon petition is resolved,” he said
yesterday.

Azhar said he had acknowledged the
submission of documents on Sept 1,
including a copy of Najib’s pardon
application under Article 42 of the Federal
Constitution, copies of letters from Messrs
Shafee & Co attached with the pardon
application as well as copies of the
respective sealed criminal order for Najib’s
appeal case. – Bernama

3theSUN ON TUESDAY | SEPTEMBER 6, 2022
NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS

Steps to avoid Sri Lanka predicament

o Vital to elect leaders with integrity who will line, and should think of the people. the country due to political realise that we’ve taken things for
serve people and put nation first, says unity “In any position of power, elect instability. granted in Malaysia. It’s a man-made
agency chairman disaster.”
people with ideals. Pick people who Suresh said motorists there were
█ BY ELLY FAZANIZA Yayasan Perpaduan are already serving without a queuing for days just to buy petrol, He said the onus is on the
[email protected] Malaysia chairman Prof Dr position. There are (many) NGOs adding that mental distress and government to ensure society’s
PETALING JAYA: Malaysia should Suresh Govind (pix) said it and (activists) serving without moral decline among youths were growth and the nation’s progress is
view the critical situation in Sri Lanka is critical to elect the right money, recognition or fame.” also prevalent due to the pressure to based on ideals, adding that leaders
– where its people have been brought leaders to pave the way in make ends meet. could take cues from the prime
to their knees due to serious nation-building. Suresh said ideals are like a minister’s Keluarga Malaysia ideal.
shortages of food, fuel and other compass, adding: “They will “Food prices were three times
essentials – as a serious lesson, since “A politician is supposed take you to places when you’re higher than normal. It’s difficult to get “It is a powerful ideal if
the situation could happen in any to govern, and he should lost and not get tempted. petrol too, so people had to queue implemented well,” he said, adding
country where corruption is manage things for the Serving people should be a while waiting for (supply) to be that those aspiring to serve need to
rampant. people. Politicians should passion. replenished. The queues were about have the integrity and willingness to
be predictive in their 1km in front of 18 petrol stations that serve others regardless of their creed
planning for up to 10 years down the “They should be genuinely I counted. or religious affiliation.
concerned and have a sense of
empathy.” “It’s only when we see them “The entire country can be rebuilt
standing for hours, that we realise through Keluarga Malaysia if it is
He was speaking to theSun their lives have stalled and they were implemented correctly. By ideals, we
about his recent trip in Sri unable to go to school, with the must think about what will happen 20
Lanka, where he witnessed young losing their aspirations. We years down the road,” he said.
economic and social turmoil faced by

Foundation lauds feat by Malaysian athlete Education plan for
Rohingya children
█ BY MUHAMMAD YUSRY has set for himself. I am very proud of him as Zagrepcanka 512 (Zagreb Tower Challenge)
[email protected] he has single-handedly made Malaysia a by sprinting up 25 floors in two minutes and KUALA LUMPUR: The Foreign Ministry, in
PETALING JAYA: The Better Malaysia name to reckon with in tower running. 38 seconds. He had earlier won the overall collaboration with NGOs and activists, is
Foundation (BMF) is happy to support world category title in the Germany Tower Running coming up with a comprehensive status paper
number one tower-runner, Malaysian Soh “(BMF founder and chairman) Tan Sri Championship (Cologne Tower Challenge) to ensure Rohingya refugee children in
Wai Ching, who bagged his second title on Vincent Tan and I are really happy we can on Aug 29, completing a 39-floor dash in three Malaysia receive proper education.
Saturday in the Europe Tower Running support him and make his dream come true. I minutes and 17 seconds.
Championships in Zagreb, Croatia. hope we can have more athletes like him.” Its minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Abdullah
To date, he has won a total of three titles for said Rohingya children from alternative
BMF deputy chairperson Datin Seri Sunita Soh, who received a RM111,600 tower running and two for being the fastest learning centres (ALC), whether run by their
Rajakumar expressed respect for the 28-year- sponsorship from BMF for a year starting in Malaysian at road running events. own community or NGOs, should have proper
old athlete, whom she said works very hard to July to next June, said the money helped him venues and certified teachers.
put Malaysia at the top while achieving find accommodation and time to train. Soh will be taking part in the Great North
his dream. Run (the largest half marathon in the world) “Such centres need to have permanence in
Sunita also expressed hope more parties on Sept 11 in Newcastle, UK. He will then terms of venue. If they rent (the premises), their
“With Wai Ching, it is not just a promise he would come together to make tower running travel to the US for four tower running (status) is up to the landlord. Whether they like
will go the extra mile to achieve the goals he a sport that Malaysia can take the lead in, with competitions at the end of September and in you or not, they could be asked to leave,” he told
Soh being an excellent example. early October. a press conference yesterday after visiting
Rabbaniyah Educare, a school for Rohingya
He won the overall category title in the children.

The status paper will also detail the need for
proper certification of ALC and training for the
teachers, who are part-timers and volunteers,
apart from addressing the issue of resources
and equipment at the schools.

Saifuddin said other challenges faced by
Rohingya children in getting proper education
include the mindset of their parents, who do not
see the importance of education because they
themselves are uneducated.

The centres were also facing the problem of
inadequate space, as some classrooms were
being used for two sessions simultaneously.

He said there was a need to also look into
transport for the children, some of whom live a
15 to 30 minute drive from the centres.

There are currently 48 ALC in Malaysia that
were set up by NGOs, which could provide
education to only 30% of the refugee children
population.

According to UNHCR, Malaysia is hosting up
to 200,000 Rohingya refugees. – Bernama

I am well and good:
Bung Moktar

GIFTED ... Artists at Central Market in Kuala Lumpur creating portraits from photographs provided by clients. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUN KOTA KINABALU: Sabah Deputy Chief
Minister Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin
7,700 students to resit SPM exams yesterday denied reports that he was ill and
being treated in hospital.
KUALA LUMPUR: This year’s Sijil Pelajaran such as the date, time, code and examination The timetable and Examination
Malaysia repeat examinations will be held paper, as well as instructions. Registration Statement can be downloaded The Sabah Barisan Nasional (BN) chairman
from Sept 12 to 14, involving 7,720 candidates from the MES website at confirmed he is in good health and is currently
at 209 centres nationwide. “Candidates are also reminded to bring http://lp.moe.gov.my. in Kuala Lumpur, after attending court
along identification documents and the proceedings last Friday.
The Malaysian Examination Syndicate Examination Registration Statement. A total of 1,317 examiners have been
(MES), via a statement by the Education appointed for the Bahasa Melayu oral test “To all my friends and political enemies,
Ministry, requested all candidates to refer to “They must also comply with standard while 1,441 will be on duty for the Bahasa don’t worry about me as I have remained calm
the examination timetable for information operating procedures and rules set by MES to Melayu listening and written tests. – Bernama and healthy under God’s protection.”
ensure smooth management of the exams.”
Bung Moktar said he would be with the
people and BN supporters in Kota Belud on Oct
10 for the launch of a programme and the Kota
Belud and Tuaran election machinery.

His press secretary Jaafar Abdul Wahid said
since Sunday, he has been contacted by several
individuals asking about Bung Moktar.

He said the situating began after a photo was
shared on social media showing BN secretary-
general Datuk Ahmad Maslan and Sabah
Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister
Datuk Jafry Arifin visiting Bung Moktar, who
was lying in bed.

“The photo was taken sometime in 2015 or
2016 after he underwent kidney treatment in
China,” Jaafar said. – Bernama

4 theSUN ON TUESDAY | SEPTEMBER 6, 2022 FOLLOW ON YOUTUBE SCAN
NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS ME
/theSunMedia

Govt dept urged M’sian bags third place at
to register staff international oratory contest
with Socso
oPresentation on uniqueness of
KUALA LUMPUR: The Congress of upbringing places speaker among
Unions of Employees in the Public finalists out of 30,000 participants
and Civil Services (Cuepacs) has
urged a government department to █ BY ELLY FAZANIZA conveying a message when he was Mas Mahathir showing his trophy. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUN
register its contract and temporary [email protected] just five years old.
staff with the Social Security PETALING JAYA: Being raised by a the audience. skill to boost their current jobs.
Organisation (Socso). strict mother and a gentle father “It was not by choice. I was “The current school system has “(Be it) entrepreneurs or
proved to be a winning formula for encouraged by my parents to attend
Cuepacs president Datuk Adnan Mas Mahathir Mohamad, who Toastmasters. They have been a specific way of public speaking. It doctors, they each have different
Mat said the government department won third place at the World members of Toastmasters for is the way they want it delivered.” needs. But all are linked to their
had failed to make Socso Championship of Public Speaking almost 40 years. careers. Their lack of public
contributions from 2013 until 2020, held in Tennessee, US. Interestingly, he has made a speaking skills does not surprise
with a total of RM32,151,063.80 in “Although initially I hated the living by becoming a public me. Instead, it inspires me as they
arrears. Mas Mahathir, 29, who experience, my parents did not give speaking coach and has an are willing to grow regardless of the
competed in the world’s biggest up but kept pushing me to do more. academy, co-founded with his position they hold.
“The arrears need to be paid speech contest, was one of the top Speaking in front of people made fiancee Dr Jolynn Ch’ng.
immediately to prevent the eight finalists, beating more than me nervous. I did not like the “Learning an additional skill is
department’s staff from being affected 30,000 contestants from over 100 experience. But slowly, it became a His students include adults always beneficial,” he added.
or at risk of not receiving special social countries. passion, and as I began doing it, looking at career advancement – a
security protection under the public speaking became fun.”
Invalidity Scheme for not meeting the A panel of 14 judges evaluated
contribution requirements under Act each finalist based on their speech He also had to overcome his lack
4 (Employees’ Social Security Act),” he content, voice flexibility and of self-confidence.
said in a statement yesterday. gestures, among other things.
“I was not able to communicate
Adnan said it is the employer’s In Mas Mahathir’s winning with people. Even ordering
duty to ensure that every contract and speech entitled “Two Gifts”, he McDonald’s over the phone was a
temporary employee is registered as a regaled his audience and the judges frightening experience.”
Socso contributor, to enable them to on the different ways he was raised
get proper protection. by his parents. While his mother Mas Mahathir said a lot of effort
was strict and firm, his father was was put in to prepare for the recent
He added that Socso had gentle and kind. competition, including revising the
expanded the coverage of protection speech 140 times.
for contract and temporary workers of “This topic resonated with me
all government departments and because I grew up with a tough “I had previously competed at
agencies from June 1, 2013. mother,” he told theSun at his office the international level five times.
in Bukit Jalil.
“Failure to comply with these “This is my sixth year. I had been
instructions is an offence that can be “Initially, I thought she was practising intensively, which
acted upon under Section 94 of Act 4, tough because it was her nature. I included crafting, rewriting and
as well as the Employees Social crafted this message but (one day) I practising the speech for a few
Security Regulations 1971.” saw her crying, and after I took the hours a day, recording myself and
– Bernama time to understand her story, it watching it. I would try it out at
dawned on me why she was tough. different (Toastmasters’) clubs to
20,000 apply for She had a tough mother, and she get feedback too.”
premium visa only knew how to show love the
programme way she received love. He also developed a ritual,
which included becoming familiar
ARAU: The premium visa programme “I believe that if we listen and with the audience before a
has been a huge success, with the understand peoples’ hearts, we can competition, “anchoring” himself
Home Ministry receiving 20,000 make the world a better place. I by listening to music and taking
applications from agents in the first used my parents to anchor that deep breaths before stepping onto
day of its launch last Thursday, said message,” he explained. the stage.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Hamzah
Zainudin. Being the second of three On the quality of Malaysia’s
siblings, Mas Mahathir started public speaking scene, he said
“I would like to inform that for the learning the ropes behind there are still a lot of areas for
first phase, we have set a limit of no improvement, which included
more than 25,000 applications,” he intonation and the way a message is
told reporters after the Menyemai conveyed to create an impact on
Kasih Rakyat programme with the
Siamese community at the Prisons Hospital, two clinics in Sarawak to be upgraded
Training Centre in Perlis yesterday.
SIMUNJAN: The Health Ministry Semera health clinic, we (the the most dilapidated clinics. “For Simunjan Hospital, the
Home Ministry Secretary-General has taken immediate action to ministry) will provide a Also present at the event were construction of a new children’s
Datuk Seri Wan Ahmad Dahlan Abdul upgrade facilities at Semera and comfortable, air-conditioned cabin ward will be included in the fourth
Aziz, National Registry Department Sadong Jaya health clinics as well as as replacement for the maternity Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister quarter of the 12th Malaysia Plan,”
Director-General Datuk Ruslin Jusoh, Simunjan Hospital to improve the ward building that has been Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri, who is he said, adding that this is to
Perlis State Secretary Datuk Seri quality of healthcare in the area. certified unsafe by the Public Works also Batang Sadong MP, and replace the existing ward, which is
Hasnol Zam Zam Ahmad and Dewan Department, so services at the Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk no longer safe for occupation.
Negara member cum Siamese Health Minister Khairy clinic will not be disrupted,” he told Seri Dr Sim Kui Hian.
Association of Malaysia chairman Jamaluddin said the move is to reporters at Simunjan Hospital here He added that a soil analysis will
Senator Ak Nan Eh Took were also overcome the challenges posed by yesterday. As for the Sadong Jaya health be undertaken before construction
present. dilapidated and unsafe health clinic, Khairy said the emergency begins to ensure structural
clinics and hospitals in Sarawak. He said the Semera health clinic, treatment room will be upgraded to stabilisation of the new building.
Hamzah said the Cabinet had which was built in 1978, is one of include a generator to cope with the – Bernama
previously agreed that applicants “As short-term planning for the electricity supply problems.
need to pay a one-time fee of
RM200,000 and a one-time fee of
RM100,000 per dependent.

“If the response is good, we may
raise the fees in the next phase,” he
added. – Bernama

New Covid-19 cases down 16.9% last week

KUALA LUMPUR: The number of “The number of recovered cases and treatment centres saw a decrease beds decreased by 2%. decreased by 18.7%, while cases
new Covid-19 cases decreased by also dropped by 20.9%, from 25,037 of 9.4% per 100,000 residents for He also said the percentage of referred by CAC to hospitals
16.9% to 15,549 in the 35th cases to 19,813. patients in categories one and two. decreased by 24.9%.”
Epidemiological Week (EW35) from Meanwhile, there was a decrease of Covid-19 patients requiring
Aug 28 to Sept 3, compared with “The average number of active 3.6% for categories three, four and respiratory assistance increased by He said the results of surveillance
18,715 in EW34. cases per day was 31,333, which is a five. 0.2%. Positive cases monitored by of Covid-19 at sentinel locations
decrease of 13.4% compared with the Covid-19 Assessment Centres (CAC) across the country found that a total
Health Director-General Tan Sri week before,” he said in a statement Noor Hisham said occupancy of across the country also showed a of 101 influenza-like illness samples
Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah said 47 yesterday on the latest Covid-19 intensive care unit beds in EW35 decrease. tested positive for Covid-19 at a rate of
deaths were recorded for the same infections in the country. increased by 1%, non-critical beds 15%, while Severe Acute Respiratory
period, a decrease of 21.7% compared decreased by 1%, while public “The number of patient arrivals to Infection samples testing positive for
with the previous week. Admissions to hospitals and quarantine and treatment centres CAC decreased by 21.4%, new cases Covid-19 was 1.6%. – Bernama
public low-risk Covid-19 quarantine that required monitoring at home

ILLEGAL ACT FOILED ... Selangor police chief Datuk Arjunaidi Mohamed 5theSUN ON TUESDAY | SEPTEMBER 6, 2022
(second from right) and Selangor Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS
director Mohd Zuhairi Mat Radey (third from right) with some of the equipment
seized following the arrest of 11 men in two raids in Kajang that crippled a diesel DPP: Zahid received
smuggling syndicate. – BERNAMAPIX personal gratification

Dealing with strays humanely SHAH ALAM: The prosecution told the High
Court yesterday that former deputy prime
o Owners need to neuter pets to prevent unnecessary “It should be made compulsory for pet minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi
breeding and dumping, says association vice-president owners to spay or neuter their animals. received gratification for himself.

█ BY SHIVANI SUPRAMANI Municipal Council allegedly injuring a dog “This is to prevent unnecessary breeding or Deputy public prosecutor (DPP) Abdul
[email protected] during an animal control operation. She said dumping. Malik Ayob said the contributions were
PETALING JAYA: Local authorities frequently other humane capture methods include using delivered by Ultra Kirana Sdn Bhd’s (UKSB)
round up stray animals, almost always dogs, a trap cage with bait and a pole with a net. If the “Heavy penalties and fines should be officers to Ahmad Zahid personally but never
hopefully for relocation purposes. But what is dog is difficult to catch and these methods imposed on those who continue to do so. went into Umno’s account although the
also becoming a norm is the cruelty the don’t work, the use of tranquillisers should be Licensing of pets must be made compulsory. payments were said to be political
municipal workers display as they do their job. considered. contributions.
“Finally, those who are looking to get a pet
Malaysian Animal Welfare Association vice- “The dosage should be administered and should opt for adoption from the local shelters “Although the defence is saying the money
president Dr Praveena Rajendra said rather used only by a trained professional. Also, it instead of shopping for a pet,” she said. is a political donation, it was not paid to his
than the method used, it is the handling that must be done in a safe environment. political party.
inflicts injuries to the dogs. Additionally, while the trap method may take Malaysian National Animal Welfare
longer, little to no harm is done to the animal,” Foundation secretary Shrilan Sivagurunathan “UKSB also never put the money into
“A catch pole can be used properly if the she said. said the existing number of unneutered strays Umno’s account nor had they obtained
handler is well-trained. There are ways of doing has increased as pets are often allowed to receipts for the payments. The accused also
it where any injury to the dogs is minimised. On why there are still a huge number of roam. did not refuse or ask for the money to be taken
stray dogs, she pointed to negligence as the away when they were handed to him.” .
“Use two catch poles instead of one – one to root cause. He said adopting strays should be
secure the dog’s neck and the other to support encouraged as many animals in the shelters Abdul Malik said the evidence from three
its hip. With the dog firmly secured on both She said several factors can be highlighted and even on the streets are potentially key witnesses comprising two former UKSB
ends, it can then be lifted safely into the holding but the one that tops the list is the inability to wonderful pets. directors, namely, Harry Lee Vui Khiun and
lorry. spay or neuter our strays effectively. Wan Quoris Shah Wan Abdul Ghani, and
However, he said the approach should be UKSB administrative manager David Tan
“This reduces the pain the loop inflicts on With a comprehensive plan, sterilising case-based as each stray animal will have a Siong Sun, who are the 15th, 16th and 17th
the neck due to the animal’s struggles and strays is deemed the most effective way to curb different temperament and personality. prosecution witness were consistent
gravity. Carrying a dog by its neck is not right as their breeding. regarding the delivery of the monies to
the damage inflicted is painful and can even be “The potential adopter’s lifestyle and Ahmad Zahid.
fatal,” she told theSun. Although calls to embrace the Trap, Neuter, expectations are important and need to be
Release, Manage (TNRM) initiative are strong, taken into consideration. “Harry Lee and Wan Quoris Shah were in
Praveena was commenting on the Klang the response to it from the public and local agreement when they testified that the
authorities has yet to be gauged. “In most cases, the adopters would expect accused never indicated the amount to be
an indoor lifestyle for their adopted cats contributed, only the fact that the accused
because they feel the hygiene level is better or indicated that the contributions must be
they live in a high-rise buildings. made in cash and in Singapore dollars,” he
said. – Bernama
“Some strays can adapt to living 100%
indoors although some can never break away Clerk charged with
from being a free-roaming stray.” murdering baby

Witness unsure about 1MDB RM1b loan support letter KUALA LUMPUR: A 34-year-old clerk was
charged in the Ampang magistrate’s court
KUALA LUMPUR: A witness told the High was representing former prime minister Datuk The witness, however, did not answer the with the murder of her six-month-old baby
Court yesterday that she was unsure if the Seri Najib Abdul Razak at the trial involving question. boy here last month.
process involving the issuance of a letter of the misappropriation of RM2.3 billion from
support for the RM1 billion loan application 1MDB. Wan Aizuddin then referred to the addition Zainah Misdin, 34, merely nodded when
submitted by 1Malaysia Development Bhd made by Siti Zauyah in her witness statement, the charge was read to her before magistrate
(1MDB) to the Finance Ministry (MoF)was Wan Aizuddin then referred Siti Zauyah to where she stated that she had applied to Amalina Basirah Md Top.
brought up in Parliament. her witness statement that stated that the obtain documents related to 1MDB from the
Finance Ministry had no information Prime Minister’s Office, but had not received No plea was recorded as murder cases
Former Finance Ministry deputy secretary- whatsoever for due diligence to be conducted any response. come under the jurisdiction of the High Court.
general Datuk Siti Zauyah Mohd Desa, 63, said for the issuance of a letter of support and that
normally, the MoF will conduct due diligence it was processed based on the instruction of Siti Zauyah, however, denied making such The woman was charged, along with
and go through the required process, namely Najib, who was also finance minister then. a statement, adding that she had only another individual still at large, with murder
presenting loan matters to the Cabinet and requested documents from 1MDB and not by causing the death of the baby in a house at
subsequently in Parliament for approval. Wan Aizuddin: Can Datuk explain how from the Prime Minister’s Office. Jalan Seladang 2, Kampung Klang Gate, in
Datuk Seri Najib’s instructions were Kuala Lumpur at 7.40pm on Aug 23.
However, Siti Zauyah said she was not sure conveyed? Formally or otherwise? Najib, 69, is facing four charges of using his
if the same had been done for the application position to obtain bribes totalling RM2.3 Zainah was charged under Section 302 of
by 1MDB, a company wholly-owned by Siti Zauyah: I don’t remember. billion from 1MDB funds and 21 charges of the Penal Code, which provides for the
Minister of Finance (Incorporated) (MoF Inc.) Wan Aizuddin: So what was the basis of money laundering involving the same mandatory death sentence upon conviction.
your statement? Something must have amount.
She said this when cross-examined by happened or there must have been a specific The court fixed Dec 6 for mention.
lawyer Wan Aizuddin Wan Mohammed, who document for you to make such a statement. The trial before Judge Datuk Collin On Aug 30, it was reported that a woman
Lawrence Sequerah continues. – Bernama had been arrested in connection with the
murder of a six-month-old child.
Ampang Jaya district police chief ACP
Mohamad Farouk Eshak said a medical officer
at the Tunku Azizah Hospital had treated the
baby boy after he was brought in unconscious
on Aug 29.
The baby was pronounced dead at 4.30pm
the same day. – Bernama

Man claims trial to
stabbing ex-girlfriend

JOHOR BARU: A man pleaded not guilty in the
sessions court here yesterday to two charges of
stabbing his ex-girlfriend on Merdeka Day.

For the first charge, under Section 307(1) of
the Penal Code, Mohamad Noor Faiz Md Hairi,
30, is accused of stabbing Sheery Hazmah Yasib,
34, with a knife that could cause death.

He can be imprisoned for 10 years and fined.
For the second charge under Section 326 of
the Penal Code, he is alleged to have caused
grievous hurt to Sheery Hazmah with a knife
that could cause death. For this offence, he faces
a 20-year prison sentence and a fine or
whipping.
He is alleged to have committed the offences
at 12.57pm on Aug 31, at Pangsapuri Meridin
Bayview, Taman Sierra Perdana, near Masai.
Judge Siti Noraida Sulaiman allowed bail at
RM20,000 for both charges in one surety.
The judge also ordered him not to disturb
the victim or witnesses and to report to the
nearest police station on the first day of each
month. – Bernama

6 theSUN ON TUESDAY | SEPTEMBER 6, 2022 FOLLOW ON TELEGRAM SCAN
NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS ME
/thesuntelegram
Approval imminent
for Bill to trim Strong quake rocks China’s
president’s powers Sichuan province

COLOMBO: Sri Lanka’s Foreign Minister oSeven dead, tremors felt hundreds earthquake warnings on their one of magnitude seven hit Aba
Ali Sabry said yesterday a constitutional of kilometres away phones. prefecture.
amendment Bill trimming presidential
powers is expected to become law in a BEIJING: A magnitude 6.8 China Earthquake Networks Centre “There were many people who The most powerful Sichuan
couple of weeks. earthquake struck China’s Sichuan said, a town in the mountains were so terrified they started earthquake on record was in May
yesterday, the strongest to hit the 226km southwest of Chengdu. crying,” said the PR consultant. 2008, when a magnitude eight
“The new amendment will reduce region since 2017, killing at least quake centred in Wenchuan killed
presidential powers and bring back seven people and shaking the Earthquakes are common in “When the shaking began, all almost 70,000 people and caused
participatory governance.” provincial capital of Chengdu and Sichuan, a southwestern province, the dogs started barking. extensive damage.
other provinces. especially in its mountains in the
The Bill, which will require a west, a tectonically active area “It was really quite scary.” Yesterday’s quake was also felt
two-thirds majority in Parliament to Some roads and homes near along the eastern boundary of the In Luding, the quake was so in the provinces of Yunnan,
become law, was proposed to help shore the epicentre were damaged by Qinghai-Tibetan plateau. strong it was hard for some people Shaanxi and Guizhou hundreds of
up stability and defuse unrest provoked landslides, while communications to remain standing, while cracks kilometres away.
by the country’s worst financial crisis in were down in at least one area, Laura Luo, who lives in appeared on some houses,
decades. according to state television. Chengdu, a city of about 21 million according to China News Service. Samantha Yang, 23, a Chengdu
people, was on her way back to her Videos posted on social media resident and recent university
The crisis came to a head in July when No damage at dam and apartment block when she saw showed lights swinging while graduate, said she had just finished
then president Gotabaya Rajapaksa, who hydropower stations within 50km people in her neighbourhood people rushed out of buildings into lunch and was in bed about to take
was accused of mismanaging the of the epicentre has been reported. rushing out of their high-rise the streets. a nap when she felt the quake.
economy, fled the country and resigned. homes in panic after getting A total of 39,000 people live
The epicentre was at Luding, the within 20km of the epicentre and “The building kept shaking, each
He was replaced by Ranil 1.55 million within 100km. time more severely than before.
Wickremesinghe. The quake was Sichuan’s
biggest since August 2017, when “Truly, this was the scariest one
The proposed amendment would since the 2008 Wenchuan
establish a constitutional council and earthquake.” – Reuters
nine independent commissions to
improve governance. Marcos and Jokowi
reviewing a guard-of-
The commissions would work to honour prior to their
promote human rights, increase audit bilateral meeting at the
oversight of government agencies and Presidential Palace in
bolster anti-graft investigations. Bogor, West Java
yesterday. – AFPPIX
Ali said Sri Lanka was also in the
process of drafting a new anti-terror law
that will be in line with international best
practices.

Ahead of a United Nations Human
Rights Council session starting next
week, Ali said Sri Lanka would oppose
any international attempt to gather
evidence of alleged rights violations
during the government’s fight against
the Tamil Tigers.

The Sri Lankan government also
announced yesterday that it has
appointed a committee to facilitate the
repatriation of Sri Lankan refugees who
fled to India during the civil war.

The government said about 58,000 Sri
Lankans were residing in Tamil Nadu
state in India as refugees and only 3,800 of
them were ready to return so far.
– Reuters

BRIEFS S. KOREA BRACES FOR
‘VERY STRONG’TYPHOON
SEOUL: South Korea raised its
typhoon-alert to its highest level
yesterday as approaching Typhoon
Hinnamnor forced flight
cancellations, suspension of some
business operations and the closure
of schools. Heavy rain and strong
wind pounded the south of the
country as the typhoon approached Marcos visits Indonesia in first overseas trip as president
from the south at a speed of 33kph.
Hinnamnor is expected to make
landfall southwest of the port city of
Busan early today. “Very strong JAKARTA: Philippine President The Indonesian president, for border trade to be developed the role that we believe Asean
winds and heavy rains are expected Ferdinand Marcos Jr met his widely known as Jokowi, said the further and transport routes should play while we faced
across the country until Tuesday, Indonesian counterpart Joko leaders signed a defence and revitalised. difficulties, (at) this very volatile time
with very high waves expected in Widodo yesterday for a state visit security cooperation agreement, a in geopolitics, not only in our region,
the coastal region, along with storm focused on bolstering defence, five-year diplomatic action plan, Speaking alongside Jokowi at but also in the rest of the world.
and tsunami,” said the Korea trade and other ties between the and agreed to speed up and review the state palace in Bogor, Marcos
Meteorological Administration. two neighbours. maritime borders arrangements. said both nations were committed “We agreed that Asean is going
– Reuters to maintaining regional stability to be the lead agent in the changes
The trip by Marcos is his first Trade between the countries through the Association of that we would like to see in
INDIA TECH CAPITAL official venture overseas since his increased by nearly 50% compared Southeast Asian Nations (Asean). continuing to bring peace to our
HIT BY FLOODING landslide election victory in May. with last year, Jokowi said, calling countries.” – Reuters
“We also spoke at length about
NEW DELHI: Large parts of India’s
tech capital Bengaluru were under Beijing accuses US of ‘thousands’ of cyberattacks
water yesterday after torrential rains
uprooted trees, caused crippling BEIJING: China yesterday accused public disclosures of specific Industry and Information gigabytes of high-value data” in
traffic and forced offices to issue the United States of launching attacks. Technology Ministry, specialises in recent years and received
work-from-home orders to “tens of thousands” of cyberattacks But a report released yesterday aeronautical and space research. assistance from groups in Europe
employees, raising fears of further and pilfering troves of sensitive by its National Computer Virus and South Asia, CVERC said in the
disruptions through the week. The data, including from a public Emergency Response Centre CVERC alleged TAO infiltrated report, which was co-authored by
Bangalore Urban district on Sunday research university. (CVERC) accused the US National the university’s networks and took the private Chinese cybersecurity
received 28.1mm of rain, 368% more Security Agency (NSA) of carrying “control of tens of thousands of firm Qihoo 360.
than the average, according to data Washington has accused out “tens of thousands of network devices” including servers,
compiled by the state-run India Beijing of cyberattacks against US malicious attacks on network routers and network switches. The Foreign Ministry yesterday
Meteorological Department. “After businesses and government targets in China in recent years”. condemned the alleged hack,
two years of work-from-home, agencies, one of the issues over It specifically accused the NSA’s Using dozens of cyber weapons saying it “seriously endangers
companies are coming back and which ties between the two powers Office of Tailored Access and exploiting previously unknown China’s national security and
infrastructure has completely have nosedived in recent years. Operations (TAO) of infiltrating the flaws in the SunOS operating users’ personal data security”.
collapsed,” said Outer Ring Road Northwestern Polytechnical system, the unit gained access to
Companies Association general China has consistently denied University in the city of Xi’an. “core technical data”, including “We ask the US to provide an
manager Krishna Kumar. – Reuters the claims and in turn lashed out The university, funded by passwords and the operations of explanation and urge them to stop
against alleged US cyber key network devices, it said. immediately,” said ministry
espionage, but has rarely made spokesman Mao Ning. – AFP
TAO has “stolen over 140

7theSUN ON TUESDAY | SEPTEMBER 6, 2022
NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS

Three die in bomb blast outside Russian embassy in Kabul

KABUL: At least three people were The RIA Novosti news agency said were in the area during the attack. to have maintained an embassy in Russian Foreign Ministry, the
killed and several injured after a the explosion went off when a Mawlawi Sabir, the head of the Kabul after a Taliban resurgence saw explosion occurred “in the
suicide bomber detonated explosives Russian diplomat came out of the them take over the country in August immediate vicinity of the entrance to
close to Russia’s embassy here. embassy to call out the names of police district where the attack took last year as Western allies withdrew the consular section of the Russian
candidates waiting for visas. place, said: “The suicide attacker was from Afghanistan. embassy” in the Afghan capital.
Two embassy staff members and recognised and shot by Russian
at least one civilian died in the blast, a The suicide bomber was embassy (Taliban) guards before Although Moscow does not “An unknown militant set off an
Russian state news agency and a local reportedly shot dead by armed guards reaching the target ... there is no officially recognise the Taliban explosive device.
police official said yesterday. as he approached the embassy’s gate. information about casualties yet.” government, they have been in talks
over an agreement to supply “As a result of the attack, two
The death toll is expected to rise, It was not immediately clear if he Officials said an investigation had commodities including gas. members of the diplomatic mission
with some reports saying up to 10 was able to detonate the explosives. been launched into the tragedy. were killed, and there are also victims
people had been killed. According to a statement by the among Afghans.” – The Independent
Students seeking Russian visas Russia is one of the few countries

OTTAWA: A stabbing spree in an indigenous 10 killed in Canada Solomons to lift ban on
community and a nearby town in Canada’s stabbing rampage foreign warships soon
Saskatchewan province left at least 10 people
dead and 15 wounded on Sunday in one of o Police launch manhunt for two suspects HONIARA: A snap ban on foreign military
the nation’s deadliest incidents of mass vessels docking in Solomon Islands is poised to
violence. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau called the reporting further stabbings, at a total of 13 be lifted, the Pacific nation’s leader told
attacks “horrific and heartbreaking” in a separate locations, Blackmore said. Parliament yesterday.
Police responding to emergency calls tweet, offering condolences and urging
found 10 dead in the remote Indigenous residents to heed authorities’ instructions. The callers identified the suspects, she said. Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare said a
community of James Smith Cree Nation and “Maximum” police resources were review of the makeshift ban was “progressing
the nearby town of Weldon, Saskatchewan, Blackmore said authorities believe “some deployed for the search for the suspects, she very well and we do not expect the temporary
Royal Canadian Mounted Police Assistant of the victims were targeted by the suspects said, but added that “their location and moratorium to last for a long time”.
Commissioner Rhonda Blackmore told a and others were attacked randomly.” direction of travel is unknown”.
news conference. After reported sightings of the two men in Two weeks ago, US Coast Guard ship Oliver
“To speak of a motive would be extremely Regina, the provincial capital that is more Henry opted to turn away from Honiara, capital
She said at least 15 other people had been difficult at this point in time.” than 300km to the south, the alert and search of the Solomons, after a lengthy delay to their
wounded and transported to hospitals. expanded to include neighbouring Manitoba request to dock.
Police received a call at 5.40am (7.40pm in and Alberta provinces – a vast region. – AFP
“It is horrific what has occurred in our Malaysia) about a stabbing at the James Smith The HMS Spey, a British naval patrol vessel,
province today. Cree Nation, followed quickly by more calls also left Solomons waters before getting a late
answer to their docking request.
“We are actively looking for the two
suspects.” Sogavare’s office then confirmed a snap ban
on military vessels from “all countries” while
The alleged attackers fled in a vehicle and naval approval processes were reviewed.
have been identified as Myles and Damien
Sanderson, aged 30 and 31 respectively, both When asked yesterday about the Oliver
with black hair and brown eyes. Henry incident, Sogavare said it had not been
refused permission but instead opted to leave
The James Smith Cree Nation, with a “our waters prior to being informed of approval”
population of 2,500, declared a local state of to dock.
emergency, while many residents of
Saskatchewan province were urged to shelter He said the “temporary” ban was because
in place. the Pacific nation had seen “a sudden increase”
in requests for visits by military vessels.

“In many cases, service requests are made at
short notice and there is expectation that all
requests will always be approved.”

“Each request needs proper assessment,
including of the benefits and risks to Solomon
Islands.”

He told Parliament the review was nearly
complete.

The prime minister has deepened his South
Pacific nation’s ties with China, and faced street
protests against his decision to
switch diplomatic recognition from Taipei to
Beijing.

After widespread rioting in Honiara and
demands for his ouster last year, his
government signed a secretive defence pact
with Beijing that – according to a leaked draft –
allows him to call in Chinese security forces to
quell unrest. – AFP

BRIEFS FAMINE‘AT THE DOOR’IN
SOMALIA, SAYS UN OFFICIAL
LIGHTING THE WAY ... People walking past lanterns for sale ahead of the Mid-Autumn Festival on Sept 10 in Hong Kong. – AFPPIX
MOGADISHU: The UN’s humanitarian chief
Iran demands closure of IAEA probes for ‘sustainable’ nuke deal warned yesterday that drought-ravaged
Somalia was on the brink of famine and
TEHRAN: Iran is seeking the closure of the spokesman Nasser Kanaani told a televised rejected linking it to the investigation by time was running out to save lives. “Famine
UN nuclear agency’s investigation of its news conference. International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). is at the door and we are receiving a final
nuclear activities among other guarantees, in warning,” Office for the Coordination of
order to revive the country’s 2015 nuclear deal Last week, Iran sent its latest response to After months of indirect talks between Humanitarian Affairs head Martin Griffiths
with world powers, a senior Iranian official an European Union-drafted text aimed at Tehran and Washington, the nuclear deal told a press conference in Mogadishu. “We
said yesterday. overcoming an impasse to revive the nuclear appeared near revival in March. are in the last moment of the 11th hour to
pact, under which it had restrained its nuclear save lives,” he declared. An upcoming food
“An end to the agency’s probes is part of programme in exchange for relief from US, EU But negotiations broke down over several and nutrition report on Somalia has
the guarantees that we are seeking to have and UN economic sanctions. issues, including Tehran’s insistence that concrete evidence that famine will strike
a sustainable and durable nuclear IAEA close its probes into uranium traces two regions between next month and
agreement,” Iranian Foreign Ministry Iran’s demand risks hurting the chances of found at three undeclared sites before the December, Griffiths said. In Somalia, the
saving the deal because Washington has nuclear pact is revived. – Reuters number of people facing crisis hunger levels
is 7.8 million, or about half the population,
UN agencies said. – AFP

ONE DEAD, NINE MISSING
AFTER U.S. PLANE CRASH

WASHINGTON: One person was killed and
rescue crews were searching for nine others
after a small plane crashed along the coast
of the US state of Washington on Sunday.
The Coast Guard said it received a report of
the crash at 3.11pm (6.11am yesterday in
Malaysia) and dispatched helicopters and
boats to scour the area. Local search and
rescue officials were also on the scene. “One
deceased individual was recovered by
crews on scene. Nine individuals remain
unaccounted for, and a safety zone has
been put into effect to help facilitate search
efforts,” the Coast Guard said in a statement,
adding that no cause for the crash had yet
been determined. – AFP

8 theSUN ON TUESDAY | SEPTEMBER 6, 2022
SPEAK UP

COMMENT

What can we learn frombyNoaGoldsteinandGuyLev
PPLE has recently announced a new
feature, Lockdown Mode, which
secures iOS users who might be

Apersonally targeted by sophisticated
Apple’s new Lockdown Mode?cyberthreats.
Lockdown Mode dramatically reduces
mobile devices’ attack surface to prevent cyber
threats from reaching the user. types (other than images) is completely If a user is targeted by state-level, highly
This initiative validates what has been blocked. Other features, like link previews, are sophisticated digital threats, such as
known for a long time, mobile devices are also disabled. mercenary spyware, these limitations are a
inherently exposed to cyber threats. 0 Complex web technologies are disabled. price worth paying for a more secure mobile
Certain complex web technologies, such as device. However, a majority of users are not
The importance of mobile security just-in-time JavaScript compilation, are included in these scenarios.
The development and release of Apple’s new disabled while in lockdown mode. For them, Check Point Harmony Mobile
Lockdown Mode feature stresses the Incoming invitations and service requests enables the full use of iOS devices, including
importance of mobile security. are blocked – Apple blocks incoming browsing the internet, sending and receiving
Moreover, Apple is not alone; Samsung is invitations and service requests, including files, complete FaceTime functionality and
also working to enhance the safety of its Galaxy FaceTime calls, from unknown sources. more, without compromising their security.
gadgets and recently announced a cooperation 0 Wired connections with a computer or an This allows users to stay connected and
with Google and Microsoft to accessory are blocked – when keep productivity and functionality while
bolster mobile security. iPhone is locked it will not protecting you, your device and your
This comes as no surprise to support wired connections. organisation.
those who manage mobile “Malicious files 0 Configuration profiles cannot A great example of this approach is
devices on a daily base. have been be installed – MDM/UEM
used in a integration is blocked Harmony Mobile File Protection capability.
Using mobile devices for Like Apple, Check Point recognised that
personal and work purposes can Some capabilities might
expose users to social engineering change by the anticipated release files are an emerging attack vector on mobile
methods. This has not gone date, but it is evident these devices.
unnoticed by cybercriminals.
For this reason, Check Point Harmony
variety ofOver the past year, researchers protections will create more Mobile recently released a new file protection
at Check Point have observed secure Apple devices. capability that protects the device from
Check Point Harmony Mobile, malicious files.
attacks,threat actors’ increased focus on a market-leading Mobile Threat Check Point Harmony Mobile File
mobile devices. Defense (MTD) solution, offers a Download Prevention scans downloaded files
complementary solution that can for malicious intent.
includingThey leverage social networks
and messaging apps to carry out enhance the security provided by Once found, the download is completely
Apple’s Lockdown Mode and blocked and the malicious file never reaches
state-levelsingle or even zero-click attacks.
In addition, the vast array and create enhanced protection for the device.
high-risk users. For Android devices, storage scanning is
attacks, butautomation of attack tools have
they are one ofenabled attackers to launch large- available to protect against downloaded files.
Check Point Harmony Mobile This ensures the mobile device stays threat-
scale campaigns that are more enhances security for high-risk
complex with relative ease. users free without affecting user productivity.
Check Point Harmony Mobile uses
the mostApple’s Lockdown mode also
addresses files as the main threat overlooked While Check Point and Apple ThreatCloud, the intelligence tool with the
vector. vectors in both agree on the importance of security posture and can be integrated with best catch rate in the industry for scanning
mobile mobile security, their protection any UEM and MDM solutions. those files.
Malicious files have been used approach is different.
in a variety of attacks, including High-risk iOS users should combine both ThreatCloud combines the latest AI
state-level attacks, but they are The new Lockdown Mode is a technology with big data threat intelligence, as
one of the most overlooked solution to a very specific state- well as threat intelligence collected and
vectors in mobile security. level attack problem. analysed by Check Point’s elite research team
Malicious PDF, GIF images, It covers a severe set of attack security measures to provide wide protection to block files, malicious web content and
scenarios, but does not address for their devices and organisation. But what more.
security.and Excel sheets can facilitate
cyberattacks, yet most mobile common attacks such as about non-critical users? Check Point Harmony Mobile is the first
security solutions do not regard phishing, botnets or man-in-the- mobile threat solution among the industry’s
them as a major risk. middle. Check Point Harmony Mobile for top leading vendors to prevent the download
Even attacks that target high-profile users, non-critical users of malicious files to mobile devices
What is Lockdown Mode and how does it such as spear phishing and whaling, are not While turning on Lockdown Mode will
work? among the scenarios covered by the Lockdown undoubtedly provide greater security, it will What should you do to protect your mobile
Apple’s Lockdown mode is expected to be Mode. also limit device usability. device
available in the fall on iOS 16, iPadOS 16 and Check Point Harmony Mobile is an MTD Lockdown Mode disables some High-risk users should consider using both
macOS Ventura. solution that protects both iOS and Android rudimentary features on the mobile device. Lockdown Mode and the Check Point
Its target is to dramatically reduce mobile devices across all attack vectors: files, The user won’t be able to receive FaceTime Harmony Mobile solution to cover all possible
devices’ available attack surface by blocking or networks, applications and OSs. calls from an unknown number, download a attack vectors.
disabling files and access. It provides protection against zero-day file attached to a message and some web For the majority of users, Check Point
While in lockdown mode: phishing attacks, blocks malicious file features might not work. Harmony Mobile provides the ultimate
0 Most message attachments are blocked – downloads, detects malicious iOS profiles and Lockdown Mode might also present a balance of complete protection and zero
Apple recognised files as an emerging attack provides malware protections, safe DNS, and challenge to the organisation, as admins impact on productivity.
vector on mobile devices. In lockdown mode, more. cannot install MDM or UEM on a device in
the download of most message attachment It allows security admins to monitor device lockdown mode. Comments: [email protected]

9theSUN ON TUESDAY | SEPTEMBER 6, 2022
SPEAK UP

RUKUN NEGARA: THE PRINCIPLES THE OBJECTIVES

BELIEF LOYALTY TO KING TO achieve greater unity TO maintain a TO create a just society in which
IN GOD AND COUNTRY among Malaysians democratic way of life the wealth of the nation shall be equitably shared

THE SUPREMACY OF THE RULE COURTESY AND TO ensure a liberal approach to her rich TO build a progressive society which shall be
THE CONSTITUTION OF LAW MORALITY and diverse cultural traditions oriented to modern science and technology

Say no to discrimination
YET again, this year we saw
plenty of Merdeka crime of hate. “Being different world leaders. are facing torture in unthinkable
advertisements that got us No doubt, the majority of the should not be The threat seems to be looming. measures.
hitched on the illusion that we a reason for
are doing quite well on the racial unity population is moderate in its view one to claim The mistaken belief that other races More than a million Uighurs and
front. about the discriminating factors but superiority over are the cause of one race’s deficiencies members of mainly Muslim ethnic
they don’t make up the numbers in the the other is festering and although there is no minority groups have been arbitrarily
It is more of a convention, or political circle. basis to this claim, as promulgated by imprisoned, deprived of their physical
should I say an eye-wash, as I see it eminent scholars in the country, it liberty and subjected to forced
when the three major races are Race, religion and ethnicity have seems to be an easy topic for sterilisation, coerced abortions and
portrayed and depicted brazenly in the been a point of contention and the politicians. rape.
advertisements. cause of war and human genocide
worldwide. At the drop of a hat, the blame game Beijing’s repressive policies in
My cynicism is that it starts and circulates and, not surprisingly, northwest China also included
ends in the advertisements, with the Having said that, in our country is netizens of all races have been coming “draconian restrictions on freedom of
reality having diverged too far off. inclusivity real or is it mere rhetoric out in full force condemning such religion or belief, freedom of
being played up just for occasions to blatant accusations. expression, and freedom of
It does not take an intellectual to beautify rather than to imbue the true movement”, said the report which was
remind us that unity is the only basis meaning of multi-racialism? This Merdeka, my wish is for a released in 2021.
on which Malaysia can thrive and we clean-up of the entire decadence in
did have decades of prosperity where The answer is not a difficult one as government, where the takers and China is a good example of a bad
we shared and celebrated our it is as glaring as day and night. givers are given their dues. The hate infliction against humanity.
diversity. speeches should receive their ugly
How do we stop this cancerous dues promptly. Discrimination has been in
However, the truth is we are in an notion at the root so that Malaysians existence from the time the human
existential crisis, with at least one can continue to live and let live and We need to do this now as leaving race existed no doubt.
political party and a few politicians stay united in diversity? even one bad apple behind will create
who have been incessant in their hate a stench, which we will have bigger However, we as the same human
propaganda to seek self-gratification Being different should not be a trouble cleaning up. race can stand up to oppose and
and political mileage. reason for one to claim superiority willfully criminalise the practice.
over the other. In China, blatant genocide against
All others who watch and don’t do the Uighurs is unravelling and the Together, we can take great strides
anything about it are partners in the We have to accept that variety adds United Nations report on human rights for the good of the people.
colour and vibrancy to our lives, it has not done justice to the people who
would be a pretty narrative which we Comments: [email protected]
once were, much to the awe of other

COMMENT byYS Chan

Introduce ‘One Pass’ for tourists to enhance experience

LAST week, I felt a sense of déjà vu technical experts to help develop a reality (AR), will revolutionise the Travel services of the future would around for information that may be
when reading a report that the “One Pass” that can be used not just tourism industry and old school be vastly different from those of the inaccurate or out of date.
Tourism Authority of Thailand for transport by train, bus, taxi or e- travel agents and tourist guides will pre-pandemic era.
together with five leading hailing, but also at hotels, restaurants, become redundant. With the cancellation of Visit
corporations have launched the shops, attractions, entertainment In October 2021, I pronounced Malaysia Year (VMY) 2020, little has
TAGTHAi Pass, a digital travel pass to spots and for sightseeing tours within Just like Uber, which initially that travel agents of the future would changed since 2014 which was our
bolster Thailand’s tourism industry. the city or overland excursions to subsidised 58% of the fares on average be in the form of super-apps, as it last VMY.
another state. globally so that passengers paid only would be a matter of time before they
Since December 2020, I have 42% of the actual fare in order to are easily available for international Our tourism industry players
repeatedly proposed a similar Utilizing QR codes, the travel pass steamroll competitors, new start-ups travellers and popular with foreign seem to be caught in a time warp of
concept which was disseminated could easily be distributed and used offering state-of-the-art travel passes visitors in the same way e-hailing past ideas, especially those that have
through my published letters. at large number of participating are likely to adopt similar strategies to apps have succeeded in cornering been successful before the pandemic
service providers. compete with each other. the market away from traditional and are unwilling to change.
Although I have recommended taxis.
many new ideas for the betterment of For example, they could be sold at For example, a budget travel pass The Kodak moment used to mean
our tourism, only a few were taken up say RM199 per day on twin sharing selling for RM199 per day could be Giant online travel agents (OTAs) something that was worth saving and
by local industry players. Our basis and registered users may opt for worth RM300, a RM299 premium have long captured the lion’s share of should be captured in film.
lackadaisical attitude has allowed any form of land transport within the pass worth RM450 and RM399 luxury flight and hotel bookings that even
Thailand to leapfrog us in tourism. city, a hotel room for the night with pass worth RM600. brick and mortar travel agents buy At its peak in 1996, the Eastman
breakfast the next morning, a buffet or from them and online marketplace Kodak Company was worth US$31
In 2014, Malaysia received 27.44 set meal for lunch or dinner, entrance This would allow tourists to for lodging had taken away market billion and Kodak was the fifth most
million foreign tourist arrivals and tickets to many attractions, free gifts at choose the standard of hotel and share from hotels by offering cheaper valuable brand in the world. It
26.1 million in 2019. selected shops and entertainment room they wish to stay without private accommodation. refused to embrace changes and
spots, sightseeing tours, excursions, having to compromise their lifestyle collapsed in 2012.
In 2014, Thailand attracted 24.81 adventures, and many other activities. and is also in line with the National New businesses with the highest
million foreign tourists, but the Tourism Policy of attracting high- growth potential are those that could Travelocity, the first OTA was
number skyrocketed to 39.92 million Some tourists could exceed the spending tourists. build up a gargantuan customer created in 1996. Since then, OTAs
in 2019. value of the pass while others may database that may initially begin with have captured an average of 40% of
underutilise. The multi-purpose travel pass just one service. the total global travel market for
In December 2020, I asserted that would also ensure that many sectors hotels, airlines, packaged tours, rail,
travel agents must re-explore a whole The former will enjoy their stay to gain from tourism as registered users For example, Grab has introduced cruises and other services,
new world to survive. the hilt while the latter is happy with could travel freely in trains, buses, more than 10 on-demand ride- obliterating many traditional travel
the convenience and facilities. taxis and e-hailing vehicles, have hailing services that include taxis, agents.
I called on local tour operators to meals at participating restaurants, private cars, car-pooling, bicycle
re-engineer their business as they By tracking and recording tourists’ gain entry into attractions, pick up sharing, shuttle services and It is a matter of time for most
must change and adapt to a vastly activities, the science of travel free-gifts at shops and entertainment motorbike taxis. tourists to download apps for travel
different scenario transformed by the business could be deciphered using spots, join sightseeing tours, passes that provide all the options
pandemic and to rebuild their big data analytics and no longer excursions, adventures and other It has already ventured into available in a destination at any one
business models. based on assumptions or gut feelings. activities for experiential tourism. multiple consumer services such as time during their stay so that they can
hotel bookings, on-demand video easily choose a hotel, food,
If a training workshop for travel Just like the traditional taxi Apart from a long list of options platform, ticket purchasing, food beverages, transport, sightseeing and
agents were to be conducted by a industry had been decimated by the available at any one time during their ordering, grocery shopping and a entertainment, all prepaid.
competent facilitator, participants e-hailing service, a multipurpose stay at a destination, registered users wide range of financial services.
could be coaxed to cough up crazy travel pass using an app will replace would also be able to access smart Introducing the One Pass in
proposals for argument’s sake in the services of travel agents and information made possible by AI. It will be no surprise if super-apps Malaysia would require huge
brainstorming sessions. tourist guides as most customers will decimate traditional travel agents by funding.
find it more comfortable, convenient While using their smartphone to promoting travel passes at various
Ideas that appear weak, weird or and cheaper using a smartphone record something interesting, they destinations offering the greatest In Thailand, five corporations –
wild initially may later turn out to be than talking to another person who could also activate AR for a virtual variety of options for hotel stay, AIS, TRUE, Kasikorn Bank, ThaiBev
gems. may not understand correctly or tourist guide to appear on screen and meals, sightseeing, transfers, and Dusit Thani – pooled their
communicate poorly. delivere meaningful commentaries. entrance tickets and other activities resources to attract tourists and
For inbound tour operators, that tourists desire but at half the facilitate their stay, without them
instead of continuing to rely only on In another opinion piece in Apart from becoming drone pilots normal prices. being left alone to fend for
piecemeal bookings from their December 2020, I pointed out that we to capture close-up videos of distant themselves.
overseas counterparts and sales should get ready for travel services of objects where permitted, tourist Hence, travel agents of the future YS Chan is a master trainer for Mesra
generated via websites or social the future. guides of the future must also be would be super-apps that travellers
media, they could also explore and YouTubers able to introduce and could choose for the best options Malaysia and Travel and Tours
tap into the much bigger market of The amalgamation of fifth record something interesting for available and book directly as and Enhancement Course, and an ASEAN
travellers that have been bypassing generation technology standard for posterity, instead of allowing the when needed without going through
travel agents. broadband cellular network (5G), service performed to be gone with intermediaries. Tourism Master Trainer. He is also a
with artificial intelligence (AI), the wind. tourism and transport business
A large tour company or a Internet of Things and augmented They no longer need to ask consultant. Comments:
consortium of smaller ones could [email protected]
pool their resources together and hire

10 theSUN ON TUESDAY | SEPTEMBER 6, 2022
MEDIA & MARKETING

O█ BY MARIETTA MU By doctors for doctors
N Saturday Aug 20, Medic o Medic Footprints Malaysia aims to help doctors transition out of
Footprints Malaysia (MFM) clinical medicine and shine a light on the diverse careers in healthcare
had their Diverse Careers
for Doctors Summit at the Tan Sri Jemilah giving her opening address. Dr. Azhar Ahmad, Head of the
IDCC, Shah Alam which was Medical Department for Malaysia
officiated by Prof. Tan Sri Dr. Jemilah “Try asking: ‘What can I do? How Kingdom, Dr. Chew found others and Singapore for Boehringer
Mahmood, Professor and Executive can I contribute? How can I impact who understood her plight, so she Ingelheim gave an inspiring
Director of Sunway Centre for healthcare? And how can I make a wanted to extend the same helping deliverance about how medical
Planetary Health, Sunway University change?’ I think most of us became hand in her home country, Malaysia. doctors can have a successful career
and founder of Mercy Malaysia. doctors because we want to make a “Our mission is to build a outside clinical medicine.
change in patients’ lives. Maybe we community of doctors that have each Dr Chew sharing her personal stories
During her keynote address, Tan were just shown a small subset of other’s back whether in clinical He said: “Find something that fit about working in clinical medicine.
Sri Jemilah emphasised the what impacting healthcare could medicine or outside of clinical your scale and then fit what you love show doctors that there are many
transferable skills that medical look like, but it’s actually really huge. medicine,” emphasised Dr. Chew. to do because it will make it so much other ways they can still contribute to
students can offer: “I think medical And that’s why we have the summit to Many sectors in industry more fun when you’re doing healthcare and impact patients’ lives
education teaches us about not just show how every one of these doctors including health tech, private something that you love. other than the traditional way of
the science of medicine, but also can impact healthcare can improve hospitals, pharmaceuticals, practising medicine. That there’s no
understanding the real situation of patients’ lives on their own terms in a education, and consulting “Make sure you don’t forget about shame in quitting medicine, and that
human beings, developing empathy, way that is sustainable for them.” management also came forward to networking you opens so much more leaving medicine doesn’t mean they
and having a greater understanding support MFM’s mission to assist opportunity that you don’t even know are failures,” reminded Dr. Chew.
of the needs of people. I wouldn’t be After stumbling across Medic doctors in their career transition. exists before. And then when you’re
where I am today if not for the Footprints based in the United thinking about changing career, be
medical training I had.” courageous and take the plunge.”

“MFM’s goal to help empower and MFM’s objective is to connect
support doctors at all levels and I doctors to diverse careers. The
believe that a compassionate and summit, which ran for the entire day
united community of doctors is key to had 11 talks by 11 incredible doctors
a thriving and sustainable healthcare who are now working in different
system in Malaysia.” fields outside of clinical medicine and
also had 3 networking sessions where
MFM’s Managing Director Dr. members who joined could talk to
Selina Chew gave an honest and them.
relatable anecdote of how she felt
unhappy with her career when she Among the 11 talks, they included
worked long and tiring hours as a the topics of climbing the corporate
medical officer and knew that ladder as a doctor, the aesthetic
working in that manner was not market, how to build your brand as a
sustainable for her. “I wanted to save doctor, hospital management,
lives, but I can’t kill myself trying to lifestyle medicine, and how doctors
save someone else.” who code can impact their work.

“Now, as I matured, I realised that “Through this summit, I hope to
saving lives is not just one way. There
are so many ways and I realised also
clinical medicine is not healthcare.
The moment I stepped out of clinical,
I realised that we were just a small dot
in this huge ocean called healthcare.”

Exciting rewards from GSC
THE long wait activate GSC
Dr Azhar emphasized networking for doctors transitioning into other careers. is finally over Rewards on
as Golden either
Screen platform,
Cinemas simply by
(GSC) has completing
finally rolled out its all-new cinema their details in their personal
loyalty membership, GSC Rewards, profile page on the website, or
which gives audiences more under the “Me” tab in the mobile
reasons to watch movies, dine, and app. New member sign-ups will
shop at GSC. GSC Rewards lets automatically be enrolled into the
customers earn 5 GSCoins for GSC Rewards programme with no
every RM1 spent at Aurum additional steps required.
Theatre, GSC movie theatres, as To celebrate the launch of GSC
well as JIN Gastrobar, Happy Food Rewards, members are eligible to
Co. cafés, Keepsake merchandise enjoy a host of promotions from
stores, as well as its website and now until Oct 31.
mobile app. More information about GSC
Rewards is available on GSC’s
Members who have previously website at www.gsc.com.my
signed up for an account on GSC’s
website and mobile app can now

EDUCATION
FOCUS 2022

Get a headstart in building a successful future today!
Catch theSun's fortnightly Education focus for the best
in local and international centres of higher learning.

Contact us now for special deals on digital, video and Publication date 27 SEPTEMBER, 2022 (TUESDAY)
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S E C U R I T I E S S D N. B H D. TUESDAY
SEPTEMBER 6, 2022
197201001092 (12738-U)
Editorial Tel: 03-7784 6688
A Participating Organisation of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad Fax: 03-7785 2624/5

A Trading Participant of Bursa Malaysia Derivatives Berhad Email: [email protected]
Advertising Tel: 03-7784 8888
Participation Bought Sold Net Fax: 03-7784 4424
%
RM m RM m RM m Email: [email protected]

48.3 Institutions 606.6 604.1 2.5

30.3 Retail 379.8 378.4 1.4

21.3 Foreign 265.3 269.2 -3.9 1.38 226.39 11.94 5.73
KLCI HANG SENG TSEC KOSPI
100.0 1251.7 1251.7 0.0 1,489.80 9.79 13.43 31.23 14,661.10 2,403.68 23.50
STI 19,225.70 SCI NIKKEI S&P/ASX200
Preliminary stats (excluding trade amendments). For final data, please refer to www.bursamalaysia.com 3,215.48 3,199.91 27,619.61
Source: Burs Malaysia 6,852.20

KL MARKET SUMMARY Bank Negara expected to
September 5, 2022

INDICES 10,553.70 CHANGE -1.76 lift OPR by 25bps this week
FBMEMAS
FBMKLCI 1,489.80 -1.38
CONSUMER PRODUCTS 575.90 -0.04
INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTS 181.27 +1.05
CONSTRUCTION 156.19 +0.30
FINANCIAL SERVICES 16,770.80 +6.81
ENERGY 700.73 +3.66
TELECOMMUNICATIONS 586.46 +1.18 o Move to ease Malaysia’s
HEALTH CARE 1,537.29 -4.92 inflation rate on the back
TRANSPORTATION 806.36 +1.14 of a robust economic
PROPERTY 650.99 -0.32 rebound, says Moody’s
PLANTATION 7,001.58 +43.74
FBMSHA 10,595.90 -3.69
FBMACE 4,760.15 -46.53
TECHNOLOGY 62.03 -0.40

TURNOVER VALUE KUALA LUMPUR: Bank Negara Malaysia
2.085 BIL RM1.247 BIL (BNM) is expected to hike its overnight
policy rate by 25 basis points (bps) to 2.5%
5 MOST ACTIVES this week, its third consecutive rate hike,
September 5, 2022 aiming to help ease the country’s inflation
coupled with a robust economic rebound,
STOCK VOL CLSG (sen) +/– (sen) says Moody’s Analytics.
SNS 135,359,400 26.0 -0.5
VC 113,409,800 16.5 It said Malaysia’s headline consumer
TANCO-WC 67,962,400 4.5 UNCH price index rose by 4.4% year-on-year in
HSI-CJH 56,646,900 11.5 +4.0 July, a full percentage point increase from
JADEM 52,299,800 29.0 -3.0 the previous month.
+2.5
“Meanwhile, Malaysia’s second-quarter
5 TOP GAINERS gross domestic product came in far above
September 5, 2022 expectations, driven by an uptick in demand
for services after borders fully reopened in
STOCK VOL CLSG (RM) +/– RM April,” it said in a statement. On the external front, raising the OPR will shore up the ringgit, which has been slipping against
UTDPLT 371,900 15.28 +0.42 the greenback amid aggressive rate hikes by the US Federal Reserve. – BERNAMAPIX
PERSTIM 133,100 4.52 +0.31 On the external front, raising the
AJI 11.94 +0.26 overnight policy rate will shore up the
PMBTECH-WA 6,700 3.32 +0.22 ringgit, which has been slipping against the
PANAMY 25,300 26.50 +0.20 greenback amid aggressive rate hikes by the
4,900 US Federal Reserve, it said.

BNM is scheduled to hold its September
Monetary Policy Committee meeting
tomorrow and Thursday. – Bernama

5 TOP LOSERS
September 5, 2022

STOCK VOL CLSG (RM) +/– RM
FANG-2XL 2,000 6.73 -0.73
MPI 312,100 29.04 -0.56
PETDAG 227,800 21.10 -0.50
SMI 34,021,600 0.255 -0.26
HARISON 4,700 5.72 -0.23

EXCHANGE RATES SEPTEMBER 5, 2022 AirAsia Aviation comprises
AirAsia Malaysia, AirAsia
Foreign currency Bank sell Bank buy Bank buy Philippines, AirAsia Thailand
and AirAsia Indonesia. – AFPPIX
1 US DOLLAR TT/OD TT OD
1 AUSTRALIAN DOLLAR 4.5540 4.4210 4.4110 Capital A progressing with New York
1 BRUNEI DOLLAR 2.9880 2.9720 listing plans for AirAsia Aviation, Super App
1 CANADIAN DOLLAR 3.1110 3.1510 3.1430
1 EURO 3.2440 3.3690 3.3570 DANAU TOBA: Capital A Bhd is Capital A held the event at the Silangit flying. We’ve 110 flying now and by the end
1 NEWZEALAND DOLLAR 3.4610 4.3790 4.3590 progressing with plans for the listing of International Airport, North Sumatra, of the year, 160 and probably in the first
1 SINGAPORE DOLLAR 4.5250 2.6840 2.6680 AirAsia Aviation Group Ltd and airasia Indonesia in conjunction with the quarter of 2023 all of them,” he said.
1 STERLING POUND 2.7840 3.1510 3.1430 Super App in New York. inaugural Jakarta-Silangit flight operated by
1 SWISS FRANC 3.2440 5.0720 5.0520 AirAsia Indonesia since Sept 1. Fernandes said AirAsia is also expecting
100 UAE DIRHAM 5.2380 4.5160 4.5010 CEO Tony Fernandes said the company, to carry nearly 40 million passengers this
100 BANGLADESHTAKA 4.6210 118.9900 118.7900 formerly known as AirAsia Group Bhd, Meanwhile, Fernandes said the year, about half of the numbers carried in
100 CHINESE RENMINBI 125.4500 4.5750 4.3750 would probably make the announcement company would replace its Airbus A320, the 2019.
100 HONGKONG DOLLAR 4.8740 63.6600 next year. narrow-body aircraft fleet, with a more fuel-
100 INDIAN RUPEE 66.4600 55.7400 N/A efficient A321 on the back of resumption of He said the airline’s North Asia market
100 INDONESIAN RUPIAH 58.6400 5.4500 55.5400 “We’re planning the listing of AirAsia the aircraft delivery in 2024. would recover next year as countries loosen
100 JAPANESE YEN 5.8100 0.0286 5.2500 Aviation which is private now, and Super travel restrictions with China might
100 NEWTAIWAN DOLLAR 0.0316 3.1460 0.0236 App that’s progressing but we’ll make He said 2023 is a year of getting back to gradually open by the middle of next year.
100 PAKISTAN RUPEE 3.2480 announcements in due course,” he told its pre-Covid-19 level and regrowing in
100 PHILIPPINE PESO N/A 3.1360 reporters at an event recently. 2024 with A321, adding that aircraft “Japan is still semi-open, South Korea
100 QATAR RIYAL N/A 1.9800 N/A deliveries up to 2029 have already been looks gonna be open soon and Taiwan is
100 SAUDI RIYAL 2.1200 7.6600 AirAsia Aviation comprises AirAsia financed. still closed, etc. I think by next year, we
100THAI BAHT 8.1300 119.0300 1.7800 Malaysia, AirAsia Philippines, AirAsia begin to recover North Asia as well,” he said.
125.3800 116.3100 7.4600 Thailand and AirAsia Indonesia. “Our first goal is to get all our 205 planes – Bernama
122.5200 11.4900 118.8300
12.9400 116.1100
11.0900

Source: Malayan Banking Berhad/Bernama

12 theSUN ON TUESDAY | SEPTEMBER 6, 2022 READ OUR HERE SCAN
SUNBIZ ME
/thesundaily
NET FOREIGN BUYING
BRIEFS INTO SEVENTH STRAIGHT EP Manufacturing’s 2-wheel
WEEK AT RM190.9M EV Blueshark gets RTD nod

PETALING JAYA: The local bourse o With the green light, the company conditional approval from the Eventually, the company will
continued to see net foreign buying is one step closer to capturing the Ministry of International Trade export the assembled products
of Malaysian equities last week with projected demand for two-wheel and Industry on its application into other Southeast-Asian
RM190.9 million bought in a electric vehicles in Malaysia for assembly of electric bikes countries where demand for
shortened trading week due to the under the Industrial Co- two-wheelers is booming. The
Merdeka public holiday, slightly PETALING JAYA: Automotive “Simultaneously, our ordination Act 1975 [Act 156]. Blueshark-branded two-wheel
lower than the RM244.6 million parts manufacturer EP partners in other Asean This is subject to the conditions EV is developed by Sharkgulf
recorded in the week prior. MIDF Manufacturing Bhd (EPMB) countries such as Indonesia, to be fulfilled by EP Blueshark Technologies, which is known
Research said this was the seventh has secured approval from the Singapore, Thailand and within six months from the for inventing the world’s first
consecutive week of net inflows from Malaysian government to Vietnam have also applied the letter of approval. smart operating system for the
foreigners. It was also the second register and license its first- equivalent VTA for Blueshark electric two-wheeler industry.
longest streak of foreign net buying ever two-wheel electric vehicle R1 in their respective With the conditional
for this year. The longest streak was (EV), about a month after it countries, and this will approval, EP Blueshark is on The two-wheelers are
between week ending Feb 11 to received conditional approval complement EPMB’s track to establish a powered by a new-generation
week ending April 8, consisting of from the government for the manufacturing activities. Our manufacturing plant and sales portable and swappable
nine consecutive weeks. and distribution centre to lithium-ion batteries, making
assemble, manufacture and the bikes more compact and
KELINGTON CLINCHES distribute the Blueshark- efficient. Within seconds, users
RM330M UHP CONTRACT branded two-wheel EV in
will be able to swap the
PETALING JAYA: Integrated Malaysia. used batteries for fully-
engineering solutions provider charged batteries at the
Kelington Group Bhd via its wholly construction of its maiden venture into the two-wheel EV “swap stations”. These
owned subsidiary Kelington manufacturing plant for business is well supported by
Technologies Sdn Bhd has clinched a electric two-wheelers. the technical know-how of “swap stations” can be
new Ultra High Purity (UHP) contract In a filing with Bursa China-based Sharkgulf positioned anywhere accessible
worth RM330 million from a world Malaysia yesterday, EPMB Technologies Group Limited.
leader in semiconductor solutions. announced that the National This is in conjunction with a such as convenience stores,
Under the contract, Kelington will be Committee for Vehicle Type strong funding base from fuel stations and parking
undertaking the bulk and specialty Approval ( V TA ) and international investors who are lots. The batteries can also
gas system distribution works for the Homologation, Road Transport focused on ESG. This should be charged at home using
customer’s expansion of current
manufacturing facility in Kulim. The dedicated charging docks.
project will commence in
September 2022 and is slated for Department (RTD) had on Aug set us on a sustained growth
completion by September 2024. 30 approved the VTA for path, moving ahead.”
Blueshark SG3000DT model In addition to the
INTA BINA BAGS RM146M (pix), or referred as “Blueshark manufacturing plant and a
PROPERTY PROJECT R1” under the Malaysia Road sales and distribution
Transport Act 1987. Certificate centre in Malaysia, EPMB
PETALING JAYA: Inta Bina Group for the VTA has been issued to will also establish a R&D
Bhd wholly owned unit Inta Bina EP Blueshark Sdn Bhd, a Centre, which will share
Sdn Bhd has secured a RM146 wholly owned subsidiary of technical know-how and
million design and build contract EPMB. resources to Sharkgulf ’s
from Eco Ardence Sdn Bhd, a joint- The VTA approval allows Gigafactory in Qingdao
venture company of Eco World EPMB’s electric bike Blueshark West Coast New Area.
Development Group Bhd. This R1 (pix) to be road registered A manufacturing
contract, the second for the month, and licensed by RTD. This ill base with shared
brought Inta Bina’s year-to-date create a new chapter to EPMB R&D efforts in
contract wins to RM444.3 million. to diversify complementing its Malaysia would
The contract involves the design present business. address cost
and main building works of a 32- EP Manufacturing executive structures to make
storey serviced apartment and a chairman Hamidon Abdullah EPMB’s two-
five-storey commercial building said with the VTA approval, it is wheeled EV cost
with an eight-level carpark podium. one step closer to capturing the effective.
projected demand for two- On July 25, EP
HO WAH GENTING, wheel EV in Malaysia. Blueshark received
KOREAN FIRM TO MARKET
CONDO IN JOHOR Bursa: Maybank IB to facilitate syariah-compliant securities trading

PETALING JAYA: Ho Wah Genting KUALA LUMPUR: Bursa Malaysia As approved supplier and user, increased participation and Malaysia listed securities, there is
Bhd (HWGB) indirect wholly owned Bhd has onboarded Maybank Maybank IB will facilitate the buying continued support from our brokers potential to further develop our
unit HWG Fintech Property has Investment Bank Bhd as approved and selling of syariah-compliant to spur the growth and vibrancy of Islamic capital markets and
entered into a MoU with South supplier and user under the Islamic securities, as well as enable hedging our marketplace, upholding Maybank IB will continue to play an
Korea’s Terrain Korea Co Ltd to Securities Selling and Buying – and risk management activities for Malaysia’s position as the world’s active role in making Malaysia a
establish a basis of appointment of Negotiated Transaction (ISSBNT) market participants while adhering leading Islamic syariah-compliant leader in this space,” he said.
Terrain Korea as agent to promote Framework. to syariah principles. equities market,” he said in a Maybank IB’s inclusion follows
and market in Korea 11 units of statement yesterday. the recent announcement of CGS-
condominium in Iskandar ISSBNT is the world’s first Bursa Malaysia CEO Datuk Meanwhile, Maybank IB CEO CIMB Securities Sdn Bhd and
Residences at Iskandar Puteri, syariah-compliant alternative to Muhamad Umar Swift said the Datuk Fad’l Mohamed said the Kenanga Investment Bank Bhd,
Johor to be owned by HWG Fintech Securities Borrowing and Lending, addition of more participating status will enable it to support its which have also obtained the same
Property. Terrain Korea is principally which was launched by the organisations under the ISSBNT clients’ investment management status. To date, there are 179
involved in business facilities exchange in December 2017. The Framework demonstrates its strategies as it sees strong demand syariah-compliant securities
management and business platform was developed as a commitment to growing the Islamic for syariah-compliant assets among eligible for ISSBNT transactions, as
support services; rental and leasing mechanism to provide a facilitative equity market in response to investors. reviewed and approved by the
activities/real estate activities. trading environment and improve increased demand for syariah- “With syariah-compliant Securities Commission Malaysia’s
Under the MoU, Terrain Korea will trading liquidity & velocity of compliant assets. securities making up 79% of Bursa Shariah Advisory Council.
promote and market HWG Fintech syariah-compliant securities.
Property Product in South Korea. “We look forward to the

148% BOOST IN AFFILIATE Versa secures eight-figure funding
SALES FOR SHOPEE’S
LOCAL PREPAID SELLERS PETALING JAYA: Digital wealth Asset Management also transactions since the beginning of “We have always strived to make
management app Versa has secured participated in this round, alongside 2022. Since its inception in 2021, our products simple and accessible,
KUALA LUMPUR: E-commerce an eight-figure funding, enabling it new investors OSK Ventures and Versa has expanded its product to enable everyone to save, invest
platform Shopee recorded a 148% to make more wealth solutions Singapore based HPRY Ventures. range to introduce Versa Invest, an and grow. In light of the funding
year-on-year boost in local telco accessible to everyone. investment fund managed by top announcement, we are able to drive
prepaid cards sold through its Versa is currently a CIP Ignite II global fund managers, in June this our vision and mission forward, to
Shopee Affiliate Programme This funding round was led by grant recipient under Cradle Fund year. empower more people towards
throughout Malaysia between Hibiscus Fund, a venture capital Sdn Bhd for commercialisation and achieving their financial wellness
January to August 2022 compared to fund managed by RHL Ventures has doubled its deliverables thus far. Versa CEO Teoh Wei-Xiang goals and bridge the financial
last year. Between July 1 and now, the and South Korean financial services shared that Versa was born from a literacy gap in Malaysia,” he said in a
data showed that local prepaid cards conglomerate KB Investment Co Versa also closes in on hitting need to empower Malaysians to statement yesterday.
sellers have received a traffic boost of Ltd. Recurring investor Affin Hwang RM200 million worth of achieve financial wellness.
at least 6.1 million clicks from Shopee transactions, doubling its
Affiliates. According to Shopee, this
trend aligns with market data
towards a rise in millennial spending
and telecommunication penetration
rate, based on the Malaysia prepaid
card and digital wallet business and
investment opportunities report.

FOLLOW ON TWITTER SCAN 13theSUN ON TUESDAY | SEPTEMBER 6, 2022
ME * SUNBIZ
@thesundaily
SHELL-PETRONAS DEAL ON
KLIA aerotrain replacement BRIEFS ROSMARI-MARJORAM
to be completed in 2025 GAS FIELDS OFF SARAWAK

o Two-phase process KUALA LUMPUR: Shell Plc said yesterday
– design and construction it would invest with Malaysian state
– involves nine trains worth oil firm Petroliam Nasional Bhd
RM700 million: MAHB (Petronas) to develop the Rosmari-
Marjoram gas fields in the country’s
SEPANG: The aerotrain replacement Iskandar giving a presentation on the KLIA aerotrain replacement programme yesterday. – waters. The Rosmari-Marjoram fields
programme at Kuala Lumpur International BERNAMAPIX are situated 220km off the coast of
Airport (KLIA) is expected to be completed in Bintulu in Sarawak. The project is
2025, said Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd He said that an enhanced bus service is “We need to ensure that the financing model designed to produce 800 million
(MAHB). being implemented to facilitate passenger is the right model,” he said. standard cubic feet of gas per day, with
movements between the main terminal gas production expected to start in
Its managing director Datuk Iskandar Mizal building and the satellite building at KLIA. Iskandar said in line with the International 2026, Shell said in a statement. The
Mahmood said the programme involves nine Air Transport Association’s forecast that the development of the field will be crucial
aerotrains worth some RM700 million and will “We seek the public’s understanding and overall passenger numbers would exceed pre- to ensure a sustained gas supply to the
be implemented in two phases involving design patience during this time as there will be some pandemic levels of four billion in 2024, MAHB Petronas liquefied natural gas complex
and construction works. inconvenience to passengers. To minimise any would be ready to handle strong passenger in Bintulu, Shell said. The final
inconvenience, we have enhanced our round- demand at KLIA with the aerotrain replacement investment decision was taken by
“The new aerotrain will have a robust the-clock bus service to facilitate passenger programme. Sarawak Shell Bhd, a Shell subsidiary
system, flexible design for future growth and movements,” he said. with an 80% operating stake in the
new features for greater comfort, It can carry 90 Meanwhile, MAHB chairman Datuk Seri project, and Petronas’ upstream unit
passengers per car, 270 passengers per train and Asked why MAHB decided to embark on the Zambry Abd Kadir said the current aerotrain Carigali Sdn Bhd (20%), Shell said. –
5,400 passengers per hour per direction. replacement programme this year and not earlier, system has been in operation for the last 24 Reuters
Iskandar said it was not an easy decision to make years, since the opening of KLIA in 1998.
“The design work, which started in March with many robust processes to go through. PEKAT GROUP’S SOLAROO
2022 and will run until March 2023, is when “We are not only replacing the trains but the GETS MONEYLENDER
multiple stakeholder engagements are “We need to hear from every stakeholder, we entire track system. This will also effectively PERMIT FOR SOLAR LEASING
conducted to ensure that the new aerotrain need to ensure that the technology is the right enhance KLIA’s reputation as one of the world’s
system meets both local and international technology. best airports,” he said. – Bernama PETALING JAYA: Pekat Group Bhd
transport and safety standards, while the wholly owned subsidiary Solaroo RE
construction of the new aerotrain will begin Sdn Bhd has obtained a moneylender
from March 2023 until March 2025,” he said in a licence issued under the Moneylenders
media briefing here yesterday. Act 1951 and the Moneylenders
(Control and Licensing) Regulations
Iskandar said within the three-year transition 2003 from the Ministry of Housing and
period, the current aerotrain will run on a Local Government. The licence allows
limited schedule to enable a more robust Solaroo RE to undertake business of
maintenance regime due to its ageing condition money-lending services in relation to
and to facilitate the replacement programme. solar leasing and other related services.
The licence is valid for two years
Inhaled Covid vaccine gets nod for clinical trial in M’sia effective from Aug 26, 2022 and is
renewable upon application.
KUALA LUMPUR: Solution Group Bhd’s Vector) as the intramuscular version of (18 years old and above) who have had the first
wholly owned subsidiary, Solution Biologics Convidecia, Solution Group said Convidecia Air booster dose are encouraged to participate in SWIFT HAULAGE RECEIVES
Sdn Bhd, the Asean manufacturing partner of is the world’s first inhaled version of Covid-19 this trial with the potential benefits of AUTHORISED ECONOMIC
CanSino Biologics Inc, said yesterday CanSino’s vaccine that can effectively induce mucosal probable improved protection from Covid-19 OPERATOR CERTIFICATION
Recombinant Covid-19 vaccine for inhalation immunity to establish the first line of defence in infections.
(trade name: Convidecia Air) has received the respiratory tract and achieve PETALING JAYA: Swift Haulage Bhd and
approval from China’s National Medical comprehensive protection in response to SARS- ACE Market-listed Solution Group focuses subsidiary companies Swift Integrated
Products Administration to be used as a booster CoV-2 as well as providing cellular and humoral on two core activities – engineering, and Logistics Sdn Bhd and Swift Logistics TA
dose. immunities to the recipients. biopharma and healthcare. Solution Group’s Sdn Bhd have been certified as
existing business segments consist of Authorised Economic Operators (AEO)
Solution Group deputy group managing Mohd Nazlee said the product has unique engineering equipment, industrial automation, by the Royal Malaysian Customs
director Datuk Dr Mohd Nazlee Kamal said the advantages of safety, effectiveness, painlessness, biotechnology, renewable energy and metal Department. The World Customs
Malaysian Health Ministry’s Medical Research convenience and availability. fabrication and assembly. It is diversifying into Organization (WCO) defines an AEO as
and Ethics Committee has given ethical biopharmaceutical-related business and a party involved in the international
approval to start a clinical trial of Convidecia Air “It provides a non-invasive option that uses a allocating more resources to develop its movement of goods in whatever
in Malaysia, marking the first trial study of an nebuliser to change liquid into an aerosol for renewable energy business, which designs, function that has been approved by or
inhaled version of Covid-19 vaccine in the inhalation through mouth which will effectively supplies and installs solar power systems for on behalf of a national customs
country. induce comprehensive immune protection industry, commercial and residential users. administration as complying with WCO
against SARS-CoV-2 after just one breath,” he or equivalent supply chain security
“This clinical trial will evaluate the added. CanSino is a biotech company in China, standards. Swift group CEO Loo Yong
immunogenicity, efficacy, and safety of dedicated to developing novel vaccines and Hui said the AEO certification is
Convidecia Air vs Pfizer-BioNTech Covid-19 Mohd Nazlee disclosed that the study sites for therapeutics for unmet medical needs. The extremely beneficial to Swift and its
vaccine as a second booster dose against this trial are at Hospital Ampang Selangor, Hospital vaccines are jointly developed by CanSino and customers.
emerging Variants of Concern of SARS-Cov2 to Selayang and Hospital Kuala Lumpur. Anyone who Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Academy of
prevent breakthrough infections among sub- is 50 years old and above with or without co- Military Medical Sciences. MAJUPERAK GROUP
optimal responders to first booster vaccination”, morbidities or any immunocompromised adults CEO ON GARDEN LEAVE
he said.
PETALING JAYA: Majuperak Holdings
Using the same adenovirus vector Bhd group CEO cum executive director
technological platform (Adenovirus Type 5 Nizran Noordin has been given garden
leave effective from Sept 2, 2022 until
SK Group cooperates with Petronas’ Gentari in hydrogen, RE the expiry of his service contract on Oct
31, 2022. During Nizran’s absence, CFO
SEOUL: South Korean energy-to-telecom production, construction and recycling, and distribution of hydrogen, and others related to Syed Agil Syed Hashim is in charge of
conglomerate SK Group said yesterday it is electric vehicle charging, respectively. EV charging in Malaysia, SK said. the day-to-day management of
partnering with a Malaysian clean energy Majuperak and its subsidiaries, as
company to explore collaboration in hydrogen, SK and Gentari will work together to identify The latest partnership came after SK and acting group CEO, Syed Agil has over
renewable energy and green mobility, as part of joint project opportunities in the areas of Petronas said in April they would work together 20 years of experience in senior
efforts to bolster its green energy transition. hydrogen, fuel cells, and EV charging, and to explore new opportunities in carbon capture corporate positions. He joined Perak
explore other ways to expand cooperation, and storage business. State Development Corp in 2021 as
Its three affiliates – SK Materials Inc, SK according to SK. deputy chief executive prior to joining
Ecoplant Co and SK Signet Inc – recently signed SK Group has actively engaged in green Majuperak on July 1, 2022 as the
a memorandum of understanding with Gentari Gentari provides clean energy solutions with a energy transition, including sustainable energy, general manager of corporate finance.
Sdn. Bhd, a subsidiary of Malaysia’s state-run focus on lower carbon solutions through bio and others. SK Group chairman Chey Tae-
oil company Petroliam Nasional Bhd renewables and hydrogen, which SK hopes will won has pledged to run the energy-to-telecom SOUTH MALAYSIA
(Petronas), for comprehensive cooperation in create synergy by leveraging its technologies and conglomerate to reduce 200 million tons of INDUSTRIES REPLIES
the clean energy sector, Yonhap news agency capabilities in hydrogen and EV charging systems. carbon emissions, equivalent to 1% of the TO BURSA’S UMA QUERY
reported SK as saying in a release. global carbon emissions reduction target set by
It added that Gentari will also be able to the International Energy Agency, by 2030. – PETALING JAYA: South Malaysia
The three engage in advanced materials utilise the existing infrastructure of Petronas for Bernama Industries Bhd, which was issued an
new business models in the production and unusual market activity query by Bursa
Malaysia Securities Bhd yesterday
following the sharp fall in the price of
its shares, said it is not aware of any
corporate developments relating to
the group’s business and affairs that
may account for the trading activity.
“The board is not aware of any rumour
or report concerning the business and
affairs of the group that may account
for the trading activity,“ it said in a
response to Bursa’s query.

14 theSUN ON TUESDAY | SEPTEMBER 6, 2022
SUNBIZ

India’s August palm oil imports hit 11-month high as prices correct

MUMBAI: India’s palm oil imports nearly according to the average estimate from the five dealers said. Even in September, India’s palm oil import
doubled to an 11-month high in August from a dealers with trading firms. Indonesia’s move to allow duty-free exports could be more than 1 million tonnes, Bajoria of
month earlier, as a correction in prices Sunvin said.
prompted refiners to ramp up purchases, five “Palm has become very competitive until end-October increased supplies in the
dealers told Reuters yesterday. compared to soft oils. Price difference widened market and brought down the prices, a Soyoil imports in August halved from a
sharply last month,” said Sandeep Bajoria, chief Mumbai-based dealer with a global trading month ago to 240,000 tonnes, while sunflower
Higher palm oil purchases by the world’s executive of Sunvin Group, a leading vegetable firm said. oil imports eased 8% to 143,000 tonnes, the
biggest edible oil importer could support palm oil broker. dealers said.
oil futures and help top producer Indonesia in The latest data from the Indonesia Palm Oil
bringing down ballooning inventories. Crude palm oil is being offered at US$1,011 Association showed inventory stood at 6.68 India buys palm oil mainly from Indonesia,
(RM4,542) a tonne including cost, insurance million tonnes at the end of June, compared Malaysia and Thailand, while it imports soyoil
India’s palm oil imports in August jumped and freight in India for September shipments, with around 4 million tonnes at the end of and sunflower oil from Argentina, Brazil,
94% from a month ago to 1.03 million tonnes, compared with US$1,443 for crude soyoil, the 2021. Ukraine and Russia. – Reuters

Europe heading for BRIEFS TESLA STEPS UP
recession, surveys show HIRING IN THAILAND

o Consumers wary of below 99 US cents for the first time in 20 years morale in the currency union and it slumped in BANGKOK: Tesla Inc is stepping
spending as cost of living yesterday after Russia said gas supply down its September to its lowest since May 2020, another up recruitment in Thailand with
crisis deepens main pipeline to Europe would stay shut survey showed. the US electric vehicle (EV) maker
indefinitely. looking to hire a business
LONDON: The eurozone is almost certainly Services activity in Germany, Europe’s largest development manager and
entering a recession, with surveys yesterday Gas prices on the continent soared as much economy, contracted for a second month recruiters, its website shows. The
showing a deepening cost of living crisis and a as 30% on Monday, stoking fears of shortages running in August as domestic demand came job announcements come as
gloomy outlook that is keeping and reinforcing expectations for a recession and under pressure from soaring inflation and demand and interest for EVs in
a bitter winter as businesses and households are faltering confidence, earlier figures showed. Thailand, Southeast's Asia auto-
While there was some easing of price battered by sky-high energy prices. motive hub, picks up. Nearly 20
pressures, according to the surveys, they Its economy is on track to contract for three Bangkok-based jobs including a
remained high and the European Central Bank S&P Global’s final composite Purchasing consecutive quarters starting from this one, a home-charging developer were
(ECB) is under pressure as inflation is running at Managers’ Index (PMI), seen as a guide to Reuters poll suggested last week. advertised on its website and the
more than four times its 2% target, reaching a economic health, fell to an 18-month low of 48.9 position of a charging infrastructure
record 9.1% last month. It faces the prospect of in August from July’s 49.9, below a preliminary In France, the eurozone’s second-largest lead was posted on LinkedIn
raising interest rates aggressively just as the 49.2 estimate. Anything below 50 indicates economy, the services sector lost more steam yesterday. Others were for vehicle
economy enters a downturn. contraction. and only managed to eke out modest growth technicians, customer service and a
with purchasing managers saying the outlook parts adviser. – Reuters
A rise in borrowing costs would add to the “The PMI surveys signal that the euro area is was bleak.
woes of indebted consumers, yet in a Reuters entering recession earlier than we previously OPEC, ALLIES AGREE
poll last week almost half of the economists thought, led by its largest economy Germany, The Italian services industry returned to SMALL OUTPUT CUT
surveyed said they expect an unprecedented 75 and we now see the euro area ‘enjoying’ a longer, modest growth but in Spain activity expanded at
basis-point rate increase from the ECB this week, three quarter recession,” said Peter Schaffrik at the slowest rate since January, with companies LONDON: Opec and its allies led
while almost as many forecast a 50 bps jump. the Royal Bank of Canada. concerned inflation would weigh on their profits by Russia yesterday agreed a
and on customers’ demand. small oil production cut to bolster
Despite those expectations the euro dropped “The revision is mainly due to developments prices that have slid on fears of an
in energy prices which, even after retreating over Outside the EU, Britain’s economy ended economic slowdown. The oil
recent days, remain elevated and which mean August on a much weaker footing than producers will reduce output by
that the impact on household spending will be previously thought as overall business activity 100,000 barrels per day (bpd),
larger than we hitherto anticipated.” contracted for the first time since February 2021 amounting to only 0.1% of global
in a clear signal of recession, its PMI showed. – demand, for October and also
That prospect of recession whacked investor Reuters agreed they could meet any time
to adjust production before the
EU races to help industries as Russian gas halt rattles markets next scheduled meeting on Oct 5.
The decision essentially maintains
LONDON/OSLO: Europe's gas before they supply the power. The European plans to replace Russian gas the status quo as Opec has been
prices surged, its share prices slid margin deposit required has raced observing wild fluctuations in oil
and the euro sank yesterday after higher with surging power prices, European countries are seeking alternatives to Russian gas as prices, being pulled by multiple
Russia stopped pumping gas via a leaving companies struggling to Moscow restricts supplies ahead of winter. Russia typically supplies factors in both directions. – Reuters
major supply route, sending find cash to cover the new
another economic shock wave demands. about 40 percent of Europe’s natural gas, mostly by pipeline Investment
through the European Union (EU) banks lower
as it struggles to recover from the Germany, more reliant than Major gas Nord Stream 1 forecasts for yuan
pandemic. most EU states on Russian gas, has pipelines
offered a multibillion-euro bailout NORWAY Yamal Russia SINGAPORE: Major investment
EU governments are pushing to power utility Uniper . Berlin said it UK Delivered houses have cut their yuan
through packages worth billions of would spend at least €65 billion 5 3 Soyuz 155bcm of forecasts as its fall against the
dollars to prevent utilities being (RM289.4 billion) to shield cus- 1 gas to EU dollar accelerates, with some
crushed by a liquidity crunch and to tomers and businesses from Brotherhood in 2021 expecting a breach of the 7-per-
protect households from soaring soaring inflation, stoked by surging dollar milestone before next
energy bills, after Russia's state- energy prices. 4 UKRAINE month’s Communist Party
controlled Gazprom said it would SLOVAKIA Congress despite authorities’
stop pumping gas via the Nord The benchmark gas price rose as FRANCE efforts to slow the slide.
Stream 1 pipeline due to a fault. much as 35% yesterday and was up TurkStream
more than 400% on the year, after The yuan weakened 2.7% to the
Europe has accused Russia of Russia said on Friday a leak in Nord 2 dollar in the past three weeks,
weaponising energy supplies in Stream 1 equipment meant it reaching a two-year low of 6.9350
retaliation for Western sanctions would stay shut beyond last week's TURKEY Blue yesterday, and is down more than
imposed on Moscow over its three-day maintenance halt. Stream 8% year to date, pressured both by
invasion of Ukraine. Russia blamed the dollar’s global strength and by
sanctions by“the collective West”for European financial markets were U.S.: Can supply 15 billion cubic 1 Germany: Plans five FSRUs and China’s worsening economic
causing the gas supply problems. reeling from the news. The euro metres (bcm) of liquefied natural gas two LNG terminals. Could import gas slowdown.
sank to a 20-year low and European (LNG) to EU in 2022 from UK, Denmark, Norway and
A host of European power shares tumbled. Netherlands via pipelines A quick break through 7 per
distributors have already collapsed EU: Planning 25 floating storage dollar – breached only twice since
and some major generators could Some energy-intensive industries regasification units (FSRUs), with first 2 Southern Europe: Can receive the global financial crisis of 2008 –
be at risk, hit by caps that limit the in Europe, such as fertiliser makers set to deliver LNG by end of 2022 gas from Azerbaijan via Southern could stoke fears of capital
prices rises they can pass to and aluminium producers, have Gas Corridor initiative outflows just as the authorities
consumers or caught out by already scaled back production. want to marshal resources to revive
hedging bets, with gas prices now Other industries, already grappling 3 Poland: Pipeline supplying about the economy, which is reeling from
400% more than a year ago. with chip shortages and logistics 50% of its gas consumption – up to Covid-19 outbreaks and a weak
logjams, face rocketing fuel bills. 10bcm per year – to open in October. property market.
“This has had the ingredients for New gas connection with Slovakia
a kind of a Lehman Brothers of Several EU states have triggered commissioned on Aug 26 Goldman Sachs and ANZ believe
energy industry,” Finnish Economic emergency plans that could lead to the 7-per-dollar mark will not be
Affairs Minister Mika Lintila said on energy rationing and fuelling 4 Spain: Wants to build new gas link breached until after the Party
Sunday, referring to the US bank recession fears, with inflation soaring to France via Pyrenees mountains Congress.
that collapsed in 2008 and heralded and interest rates on the rise.
the global financial crash. Above: FSRUs can be installed more 5 Netherlands: Vast Groningen gas But others, including Nomura,
“We cannot rule out that quickly than permanent onshore field could boost production if Russia MUFG and SEB, also see a chance
Utilities often sell power in Germany might look at rationing LNG terminals completely cuts off supplies for the yuan to hit the key
advance to secure a certain price gas,” Uniper chief executive Klaus- threshold this month.
but must maintain a “minimum Dieter Maubach told Reuters on the Sources: BBC, ENTSOG, Reuters, Rigzone Picture: Wikimedia Commons © GRAPHIC NEWS
margin” deposit in case of default sidelines of the Gastech conference Maybank revised down its yuan
in Milan. – Reuters forecast to 7 per dollar at end-Q3
and 6.95 at end-December, from
6.75 and 6.70 respectively in their
previous forecast. – Reuters

T U E S DAY
6 SEPTEMBER 2022

Adding another animated superhero concept to the industry would not only demonstrate what Malaysians are capable of, but also provide a boost to Malaysia’s animation sector. –
FACEBOOK/@ROBOZETAOFFICIAL
█ BY HAZIQUE ZAIRILL studio, however, the team’s goal
was to create their own animated
HE existence of series and concentrate solely on
homegrown animated Robozeta.

T Robozeta on the riseprogrammes such as Ejen A turning point came in the year
Ali, BoBoiboy and Upin & 2020 when Singapore’s Media Corp
Ipin has made the local animation purchased the series and began
industry increasingly popular, not o Despite facing many challenges over the years, the first Malaysian broadcasting it in the city-state.
just among Malaysians, but also During the same calendar year, the
among fans from neighbouring animated superhero series to introduced the concept of robot mecha animated series was also broadcast
countries. It is undeniably a vital on Astro Ceria.
element of the animation is ready to step up its game With season 3 already in
industry’s success, and a source of development and season 2
motivation for others to contribute currently on the way, the
to its constant growth. comments section of the Robozeta
Now that it has been proven that social media account is flooded
anyone can make their mark in the with fans asking when the next
field of animated entertainment, season will air.
Red Circle Studio Sdn Bhd, another Hafiz also stated that Robozeta
local 3D animation studio, is ready aims to target not only the
to bring its own distinctive style to country’s youngsters but also
the industry, through the evergreen anyone who enjoys collecting
theme of superhero joint forces merchandise and toys, including
protecting a city from an evil adults.
villain. He said: “The most important
Dubbed Robozeta, the animated aspect of developing Robozeta’s
series created by Red Circle Studio character is ensuring that he is
has received a lot of positive captivating enough to attract
feedback since it first entered the people’s attention. People used to
industry. collect toys and stuff like Gundam,
It is also said to be the first and we planned to do the same but
superhero series in Malaysia based with our own concepts, like
on the Mecha Robot concept first Superzeta and action figures.”
popularised by Japanese anime “The team are still looking for
series such as Super Sentai. business partners to produce
Robozeta tells the story of five Robozeta toys and souvenirs,” he
superheroes named Riko, Jango, added. “We don’t have a toy
Rexx, Ely, and Bepop, who all production line, we only have an IT
appear in the 3D action-comedy department which can design
animation. Together, they form a specific characters, and once we
team to defend the city of Zetania find a partnership that would like
and the Zeno A.I. Chip. Robozeta is a 22-minute 3D animated series in Malay that features an action comedy genre. – ROBOZETA WEBSITE to do business with us in producing

The antagonists of the merch and toys, we will give
animation series are known as the Hafiz Abd Samad, in a recent further expanded into 13 Malaysia, where local hits such as licenses and be all set.”
Kalabera Gang, and they always interview. episodes that completed Upin & Ipin are well-known in To watch all the season 1
manage to kidnap Zeno for their “After Robozeta was accepted season 1 within a year.” countries such as China and episodes of Robozeta, visit their
nefarious schemes. In addition to by MDEC and won the hearts of The growth of the Indonesia, has enabled Malaysia Youtube channel,
the action and humour, Robozeta everyone, we at the Red Circle animation industry in to become the leading force in www.youtube.com/c/ROBOZETA.
also emphasisesgood moral values Studio decided to refine this the regional animation industry
to its audience. animation further, as we had over the years. For more information about
The initial idea first made its already gained the trust and Concerns have surfaced, Robozeta, visit their official
debut in 2016 as a proposal to the support of many people. It was however, regarding the website www.robozeta.com.my,
Malaysia Digital Economy truly a moment of glory for all of originality of some locally Facebook page
Corporation (MDEC). us here, and we are all proud of produced shows, which are www.facebook.com/
“We managed to get first place it,” he added. considered merely reruns of robozetaofficial, and Instagram
in the IPCC 2016 competition,” said “After that, we came up with previously broadcast account www.instagram.com/
Production Manager, Muhamad a teaser clip which we programmes. At Red Circle robozetaofficial.

ENTERTAINMENT

16 theSun LYFE ON TUESDAY | SEPTEMBER 6, 2022

Musicians honour Taylor Hawkins
o The late Foo Fighters
drummer was the focus of a
star-studded tribute concert
that paid homage to his
music and legacy

FOLLOWING musician Taylor Hawkins’ The Foo Fighters and other artistes thank the fans during the emotional tribute concert to Hawkins. – DPA
sudden death five months ago, emotions
ran high during the tribute concert Hawkins. November 2020 during which Foo Fighters though they were watching Hawkins himself
dedicated to the late Foo Fighters The other musicians that were part of the served as musical guest, and how he spent time behind the kit.
drummer last Saturday, at London’s Wembley with Hawkins and the drummer’s son, Shane.
Stadium. concert included Paul McCartney, Queen’s The tribute concert ended on a high note,
Brian May and Roger Taylor, The Darkness’ After every guest drummer was rotated out, with Grohl closing the evening with a gripping
The venue saw a 75,000-strong crowd of Rufus Taylor, The Struts’ Luke Spiller, The the final drummer that joined Foo Fighters on performance of Everlong.
diehard fans watching some of the biggest Police’s Stewart Copeland, AC/DC’s Brian stage was Shane, who belted out My Hero on the
names in music celebrate his life and legacy. Johnson and Metallica’s Lars Ulrich. drum kit. “If everything could ever feel this real forever
/ If anything could ever be this good again,”
Those that were present claimed that the Early in the concert, even comedian Dave Shane, at only 16 years old, played with the Grohl sang, performing the song by himself and
sense of intimacy was never lost during the Chappelle appeared on-stage to discuss the vigour and ferocity of two drummers, to the singing to an audience of one; his brother and
concert, which ran for six hours, with over 50 night he hosted Saturday Night Live in excited raving of the crowd, who responded as bandmate of 25 years. – by Mark Mathen Victor
songs being played.

Throughout the period, Foo Fighters and
their fans were able to grieve together as one
collective family, and honouring Hawkins in the
only appropriate way: by rocking out.

Dave Grohl, being the central figure behind
the band and concert, was on stage the longest,
switching between the guitar, bass and drums,
and the lead singer.

Beyond his performative stamina, Grohl
spared no expense to ensure that the evening
was a celebration worthy of rock legend.

The six hours were scripted down to the
second, each performer and song choice
bearing some sort of special connection to

All eyes on Olivia Wilde for Don’t Worry Darling pCohsatdhwuicmkoBuossEemmmany’s
ON Sunday night, actress and director Olivia
Wilde was the guest of honour at a special There is also an interest in LaBeouf, who either quit or was fired from the ON Saturday, the late Chadwick Boseman
cocktail party hosted by Variety in Venice, Styles, a former British project, depending on whom you ask. received the Outstanding Character Voice-Over
Italy, ahead of the premiere of her highly- boyband member Performance award for his final appearance as
anticipated psychological thriller Don’t Worry who wrangled his Then, while promoting the film, Wilde was T’Challa in the Disney+ and Marvel studios
Darling. way into minor publicly served custody papers onstage, animated series What If...? at the Creative Arts
roles in a amidst her ongoing divorce from ex Jason Emmys.
Wilde also graces the cover of Variety handful of Sudeikis. Wilde is also reportedly feuding
magazine’s Venice issue, the first dedicated blockbuster Boseman voiced his Black Panther character
edition released by the publication. Variety’s films. Don’t with her leading lady Pugh, who was said to T’Challa in the show as he becomes Star-Lord
co-editor-in-chief Ramin Setoodeh was Worry Darling be unhappy that Wilde had begun dating from Guardians of the Galaxy in an alternate
quoted as saying: “We couldn’t think of a is his first Styles during filming, and that her universe. It was the last work by Boseman, who
better subject than Olivia. Variety is very leading role. passed away in 2020 due to colon cancer at the
excited for theatres to be back and for newcomer male co-star was paid more age of 43.
everyone to see Don’t Worry Darling.” Despite the than her. Pugh missed the first press
positive buzz over conference prior to the film’s Venice Boseman was one of three actors to get
Over the past few months, hype has been the film, there has posthumous Emmy nominations this year,
building for the film, which stars Wilde’s also been premiere, and stayed only a short while along with Norm MacDonald and Jessica Walter,
boyfriend Harry Styles and Black Widow’s controversy. Styles on the red carpet before leaving. who was also nominated for Archer and is the
Florence Pugh as a married couple who move initially came on only performer to receive two posthumous
into a dystopian neighbourhood. board as a Don’t Worry Darling is set to open Emmy nominations.
replacement for in theatres beginning Sept 23. – by
The star-studded cast includes Chris Pine, Shia Anansa Jacob Boseman, who died of colon cancer in
Gemma Chan, KiKi Layne and Nick Kroll. August 2020 at the age of 43, has left a legacy
Wilde herself makes an appearance as Pugh’s Wilde’s much- that remains significant in mainstream culture
character’s best friend. awaited film and the Marvel Cinematic Universe, especially
premiered in with the upcoming release of the sequel Black
Venice yesterday. – Panther: Wakanda Forever.
REUTERS
The actor’s death led to major changes in the
Nirvana wins naked baby lawsuit A JUDGE has dismissed a child pornography sequel’s story, as Marvel Studios president,
lawsuit brought by Spencer Elden, who was Kevin Feige said in a statement: “His portrayal of
Elden and the controversial Nirvana album cover. – YOUTUBE featured as a naked baby on the cover of T’Challa [and] the Black Panther is iconic and
Nirvana’s album, Nevermind, released in 1991. transcends any iteration of the character in any
other medium from Marvel’s past. And it is for
Elden had claimed the photograph of his that reason that we will not recast the
four-month-old self was a form of sexual character.” As a result, the script underwent a
exploitation. revision to focus on Wakanda and its people.

However, the judge, Fernando M. Olguin, The highly-anticipated sequel runs in
dismissed his claims, saying that Elden, 31, theatres on Nov 11. – by Hazique Zairill
did not file within the 10-year statute of
limitations for such cases. Boseman left
an indelible
Spencer knew about the album cover mark in the
more than 10 years ago, but he waited too MCU. –
long to file the lawsuit, which was filed in REUTERS
August 2021.

Elden named the estate of Kurt Cobain,
David Grohl, Krist Novoselic, and Cobain’s
widow, Courtney Love, as defendants, along
with 11 others, in the suit filed in the U.S.
District Court for the Central District of
California.

Elden was seeking up to US$150,000
(RM673,000) from each of the defendents.

This is Elden’s second attempt at suing for
the same issue. His first attempt was also
dismissed in court. Hopefully the latest
judge’s ruling will mean the end of the
matter. – by S. Tamarai Chelvi

FOLLOW ON FACEBOOK SCAN ENTERTAINMENT
ME
/thesundaily 17theSun LYFE ON TUESDAY | SEPTEMBER 6, 2022

An evening of
Rock N Roll
o ‘Rock on 40: The Legends’ concert at Istana Budaya this
December will feature Dato’ Awie, Ella, Muss, and Man
Kidal together with music director, Ritz Metalasia.

█ BY HAZIQUE ZAIRILL vocalist Awie said that the opportunity to grace The concert will have performances by the titans of Malaysia’s rock music scene. – ADIB RAWI/THESUN
one of the most coveted stages in entertainment
ROCK on 40: The Legends, which will and performing arts was “a great blessing”. “I don’t think it will be awkward for the Rock on 40: The Legends will see not only hits
take place at Istana Budaya on Dec 2 & entertainment hall to house a rock concert from the artistes themselves but also songs from
3, will feature our very own King and “We are definitely excited about the post-pandemic.” other artistes that have inspired them.
Queen of Rock, Datuk Awie and Ella, as upcoming concert,” said Datuk Awie. “I hope
well as former May frontman Muss and guitar that this will help boost the energy back into The press conference featured all the “We may also sing songs by other rockers to
legend Man Kidal, along with music director Istana Budaya for more shows to happen. legendary rockers who would be performing at bring back the feel of the rock era … I can sing
Ritz Metalasia. the upcoming concert, which is organised by songs by Amy Search, and Muss can sing songs
“It is not the first time that the venue has Menara Network Sdn. Bhd., except for Ella, who by Lefthanded,” said Datuk Awie.
Kicking off the promo announcement seen a rock performance. I have conducted a was reportedly feeling unwell at the time.
during a press conference held at Hard Rock few rock concerts at Istana Budaya, and am very Man Kidal also expressed: “This is the first
Cafe Kuala Lumpur last month, former Wings confident that the audience will be getting the “Although she is under the weather today, I time I’ll be performing with my fellow artistes
best from the performers, including myself. assure you she is equally excited as we all are,” after the pandemic. I hope to do a special guitar
added Ritz Metalasia. duet with Ritz Metalasia and to pay tribute to
those that have left us.”
Ritz will be taking on the role of the musical
director for the concert and will oversee Datuk Ab Razif Asmuni, organiser of Menara
everything from arranging the bands’ Network Sdn. Bhd., stated: “We have opened
productions to assisting individual performers. ticket sales since Aug 1 and to date, about 25%
of [sales] collections have been made, so we are
“The reason behind the number 40 is to pay looking forward to a wider response from rock
tribute to the number of years rock music and fans nationwide.”
the industry have entertained local audiences,”
he added. “As you know, the 80s are considered Tickets are priced at RM288, RM388, RM488,
the glorious era of [rock music], when it began RM688 and RM888. The first 100 VIP ticket
reaching out to the mainstream, which we hope holders will be eligible for a meet-and-greet
to relive in this coming performance,” shared session at the concert.
Ritz.
For more information or to buy tickets, call
In order to provide a comprehensive concert the Menara Network hotlines at 019-9729288,
experience that reflects the evolution of our 019-8879288 and 019-4519288 or visit
local rock music over the last four decades, The www.menaranetwork.com.

Drifting away to Seoul ...
SEOUL VIBE is a thrilling action film.
On the day of the 1988 Seoul have to decide whether the correct 0DIRECTOR:
Olympics, the drivers of the Sanggye- balance was found between the Hyun-Sung
dong Supreme Team became showy action scenes and the Moon
embroiled in a slush money corporate level of business. 0CAST: Ah In
investigation of an influential Yoo, Jason Her,
individual. However, Seoul Vibe’s execution of Kyoo-hyung
the story it tries to convey is rather Lee, Kyung-pyo
As all the attention was on Seoul clumsy, and it just combines too Go, Park Ju-
for the upcoming Olympic Games, many components into the same hyun, Seong-
the city’s instability presented an scenario to be able to produce gyoon Kim,
ideal opportunity to move illicit something plausible. Seong-wu Ong,
money. The team’s mission to hunt So-ri Moon,
the money makes use of their For me, there’s nothing much to Soomin Chun
incredible drifting abilities, as they hype about the movie. There is no and Woong-in
attempt to stay a step ahead. meaning or even a compelling Jeong
narrative. Everything appears to be
Seoul Vibe is an almost unique extremely basic and bland. E-VALUE
film that combines aspects of a 5
criminal thriller with what is The film attempts to blend
practically drag racing. With its 1988 multiple parts that appear to be ACTING
setting and performances by a well- mismatched, hoping for an end result 7
regarded ensemble, it appears that that appears seamless. The film fails
the relatively ambitious narrative can in this aspect, but its approach to the PLOT
be accomplished. The viewers will plot and the characters is engaging. 5

I have watched finer work from
South Korea when it comes to this

The film depicts young people’s passion and hardships during the changing times of the late 1980s. – NETFLIX

Seoul Vibe revolves around a group of drivers and mechanics called Sanggye- type of film. I felt Seoul Vibe failed to Ju-hyun, was my favourite. Her Seoul Vibe is his very first film
dong Supreme Team. – NETFLIX become the action film it aspired to connection with all the other because he handled his scenes so
be. Of course, the notable cast is characters balances well, making her confidently. With his natural acting,
strong enough that it’s worth seeing one of the standouts of Seoul Vibe. the stunning member of the K-Pop
the film just for them, but that’s it. The actors are clearly trying their group WINNER will instantly steal
hardest throughout the film, but their your heart. Overall, Seoul Vibe is a
Ong Seoung-wu as Joon-ki and character development just doesn’t decent one-time viewing experience.
Yoh Ah-In as Woo-sam are both great mesh effectively.
performers. Their excellent sense of Seoul Vibe is now streaming on
humour helps to the storyline in Acting rookie Song Min-ho did an Netflix. – by THASHINE
some way. Yoon-hee, played by Park amazing job too. I’m impressed that SELVAKUMARAN

WELLNESS Deep breathing exercises may be helpful in treating your
acrophobia.
18 theSun LYFE ON TUESDAY | SEPTEMBER 6, 2022

█ BY THASHINE SELVAKUMARAN

IN terms of anxieties, a fear of
heights is rather widespread.
The fear of heights, also known
as “acrophobia”, is more than a
normal feeling of anxiety when at
dangerous heights.
Instead,
acrophobia is
an extreme
dread of
heights, even
if they are not
especially high.

Something as easy
as standing on a little
step ladder or
staring out the
balcony from a
level above
ground surface
might set off the
dread.

Acrophobia Exposure
may become highly therapy is one
severe for the individual, interfering of the most
with daily life. effective

A distressing or terrifying Ovfeeracromofinhgeightstreatmentsfor
incident like falling off the stairs fear of heights.
might lead to a fear of heights, since
the upsetting event can be
associated with heights in the
person’s recollections. They
subsequently begin to avoid all
heights, fearing that they would
have a similar terrifying experience.
The more these individuals ignore
heights, the less chances they have
to learn that heights are normally
safe, and therefore the fear persists
and worsens.

Prepare yourself o If you experience this and want to take control, here are
Whenever it relates to confronting some techniques to help you to overcome a fear of heights
your fears, preparation is essential.
Consider being in a position that believe that something horrible will heights will not occur. Directly confronting a fear is a good way to overcome it.
makes you afraid, and picture how happen if they go up high. For
you would feel in the circumstance example, you could be afraid of Practice relaxation techniques Recognise and understand the your accomplishments and don’t let
and how you will stay calm. This falling over, the building collapsing, Short breaths, and excessive symptoms of anxiety up. With time, you could find
approach is especially helpful if you or throwing yourself off. The sweating are all signs of a fear of The individual stress reaction is an yourself doing extreme sports that
know you will be in a fear-inducing purpose of cognitive therapy is to heights, and having these sensations essential aspect of normal involves heights to celebrate your
circumstance, as understanding of teach you that you are safe, and that can amplify the anxiety and panic. functioning. When we identify a new-found strength.
what to expect minimises the your anticipated consequence from danger, our sympathetic nervous
probability of being panicked and Calming methods can assist to system activates and our bodies Natural therapies
agitated when the event happens. alleviate and regulate these begin to prepare for action. Many of Some individuals have discovered
This preparation approach helps to the unpleasant feelings of anxiety
standardise the thought of being at a come because our bodies are
height, allowing you to become attempting to pump extra blood into
more tolerant and comfortable of it. our muscles in order to prepare us
to fight or flee. This might
Understand and then challenge symptoms. Deep breathing aggravate anxiety since the fear of that natural remedies are
your beliefs about heights exercises are one of the simplest falling will certainly aggravate the particularly beneficial in
Although exposure practises to learn, and may physical symptoms. Try to become overcoming phobias. Massage,
treatment addresses help you feel more calm. acquainted with the physical signs ayurveda, natural medications, and
fear, cognitive It’s also helpful to have of anxiety. Although we cannot even dietary treatment are all
therapy activities something to simply turn off this mechanism, the possible methods that can help
address a concentrate on anxiety reaction does not continue improve well-being. Always do your
person’s ideas other than your indefinitely. Just keep in mind that homework and make sure your
about worry. anxiety will always pass. practitioners are properly trained.
heights. Contact the right body that governs
Many the natural remedies you want to try
people to discover a competent therapist
who are near you.
afraid of
heights Acrophobia does not go
Gradually expose away overnight. Give
yourself to your yourself the space and
fear time you require to
Slowly and gradually work on this
expose oneself to challenging task
greater heights. You without feeling
may attempt to walk a rushed or
huge hill and gaze down judged.
at the distance you
travelled. Keep
introducing yourself
to greater heights
until you feel at
ease. Always strive
to feel as
encouraged as
possible during
these activities.
Find delight in

FEATURE

19theSun LYFE ON TUESDAY | SEPTEMBER 6, 2022

The house
designer
Aqi.

█ BY S. TAMARAI CHELVI (above) The redesigned home; and (right) in its original state.

AN architectural designer transformed Aa choootlchliommaetein
a 15-year-old semi-detached terrace
double-story house in Pasir Pekan, o We visit a beautiful tropical minimalist house
Kelantan into a modern tropical with natural ventilation systems that create a
paradise with 15 new rooms and spaces. perfect place to relax and socialise

Muhamad Baihaqi Abdul Rashid, better “I avoided building any walls on the ground small and compact, with small bedrooms with a shared bathroom.
known as Aqi, demolished nearly half of the old floor, which could block the wind. Instead, I living, dining, and kitchen “I moved the master bedroom to the back
house structure and renovated it from top to added water features that could cool the air rooms combined into one
bottom in order to extend and maximise the coming through the doors,” said Aqi. space of 200 sq ft,” revealed and built a spacious en-suite bathroom with a
available land space. Aqi. specific shower area with imported French
The only ‘block’ he built was the sliding door marble and added a mini gym with a treadmill,”
Aqi’s transformation oozes luxury, with placed at the wet kitchen to prevent raw food However, Aqi pushed the floor space all the said Aqi.
custom-made high-end furniture and the size odours from entering the living room. way to the back of the house. The designer
of the extension turning the house into a sort of demolished enclosed walls and barriers inside “The balcony of the master bedroom has a
a beautiful ‘mansion’ rather than a semi- At the back entrance, water features like a the house to create a much larger space, and ventilation block, a decorative block to allow
detached house. stunning mini pond and fountain are adapted an open-floor plan. breeze and light into the room, and it shelters
strategically built for the air to pass through and the owner’s privacy and avoids unwanted
But what is fascinating about the cool the house. The house has a large formal living room attention from the outside.
contemporary design is that not only does the and a separate space for the dining room, which
house look beautiful, it stays cool despite the Meanwhile, indoor plants around the house can accommodate an eight-seater dining table “Furthermore, I also created a handbag
hot climate outside. help keep everything cool, with glass panel instead of only a four-seater, previously. display cabinet with a make-up room for one of
Natural ventilation windows giving access to ample sunlight and the owners to keep her designer bag collection,
Aqi’s architecture and design approach providing a clear view of the plants surrounding He added a spacious dry kitchen with a long as she is an avid handbag collector, along with a
prioritised creating a natural ventilation system, the house. kitchen bar and a comfortable space for a wet dream-come-true closet, and [I also] added a
making the house cool inside while bringing in kitchen. mini pantry.”
natural light. The green landscape gives a tropical
paradise feel and it provides oxygen, while “I maximised the entire space by adding a Next, Aqi tore down the walls between two
“It’s important to create spaces to allow air adding a touch of tropical beauty. food storage room, a laundry room, a bathroom small bedrooms and removed the shared
flow, add water features and greenery, use glass with a separate shower area, and a foyer area.” bathroom to create one huge bedroom with an
doors and windows to allow natural light into “For the building materials, I picked red Personal touches en suite bathroom made with French marble
the house, and pick the right construction bricks, which absorb heat and make the house Outside, Aqi created an amazing mini and a glass room.
materials,” said Aqi, 37. cool, instead of white bricks or concrete blocks,” swimming pool with a lounge area, a car porch
said Aqi. to park two cars, a minimal green landscape The glass room or ‘mini studio’ has floor-to-
For most of the year, Kelantan has hot Aesthetically appealing area, and a small pond at the back entrance. ceiling glass windows, specifically built for the
weather and high humidity, especially between Aqi made full use of the land by renovating and owner’s daughter who runs an online business,
March and September, with rain during the extending the space of a three-bedroom house In total, Aqi added a total of 15 spaces on the allowing her to hold her ‘live’ sessions to
monsoon season from October to December from 1,200 sq ft to 4,000 sq ft and turning it into ground floor alone, and upstairs, he redesigned communicate with viewers and showcase
along the east coast of Malaysia. a modern tropical minimalist house. the area, which previously consisted of a products under natural light.
cramped, 160 sq ft master bedroom and two
Thus, his architectural design explored ways “The original layout of the ground floor was The largest space in the house is the huge
to create a natural ventilation system by taking attic or loft space for storage. “The attic is
into consideration the weather, direct sunlight, directly above the first floor and has a secret
wind pattern and direction before designing a staircase that can magically fold and hide
naturally cool residence. behind the ceilings,” said Aqi.

Aqi studied the orientation of the house to
maximise the airflow and drive natural
ventilation by carefully placing doors and
window at the back entrance, where the air
enters.

“The door is strategically placed directly
opposite of the rear of the vast property, and
this helps air enter through the back entrance,
circulate and flow out through the front door,
creating a cooling effect,” he explained.

According to Aqi, the house is always cool
despite the scorching sun outside. Aqi also
adapted an open-plan concept.

A 3D design showing the renovated house from the front and side. – ALL PIX BY MUHAMAD BAIHAQI ABDUL RASHID English-style interior
For the interior, the homeowners especially
wanted a modern English style design with a
touch of glam.

Although the concept for the interior may
not match the exterior house, Aqi’s creativity
exudes elegance with up-scale lighting and
chandeliers, luxurious drapes, and custom-
made furniture.

For Aqi, the most important part of
designing a house is not just building a
beautiful exterior but working with the weather
and natural surroundings.

It’s a balance between beauty and
functionality.

TECH

20 theSun LYFE ON TUESDAY | SEPTEMBER 6, 2022

Apoki began her career
in April 2019 by
covering songs from
artists like Kehlani,
Blackpink and BOA.
– SONY MUSIC

Virtual idols
oTomorrow’s big names in
music won’t exist for real

VIRTUAL idols have been Engineered for success The age of music 2.0 algorithms. Only the voice of the more docile and malleable than their
very successful in Asia for a She started her career in April 2019 by These digital pop stars are only the controversial robot-rapper is human. ‘real’ counterparts. “I don’t have to
few years now. Now they are covering songs from artistes – real most visible aspect of a key trend in worry about maintaining my figure ...
conquering the rest of the ones – like Kehlani, Blackpink and the entertainment industry. The It’s tempting to make dystopian – so I can eat as much as I want,” Apoki
world. One of them, Apoki, has BOA. Two years later, she released technology that creates them, and alarmist – predictions about told Billboard Japan. This is quite a
managed to attract the interest of her first single, GET IT OUT, with K- artificial intelligence, is increasingly what the rise of these entirely digital statement when you consider that
Sony Music, one of the most powerful pop stylings. Music lovers were then being used in the domain of music pop stars means for the future of many K-pop singers are closely
names on the international music able to discover the atypical journey creation. Kàra Màr, an entirely virtual music. While some record controlled by their management,
scene. Is worldwide fame far behind? of this humanoid rabbit with a Y2K non-binary DJ, released Anthropic companies like Universal Music who tell them what to eat to keep a
aesthetic, who lives somewhere in Principle in December an album support the development of these slim figure and even what plastic
Like every year, the end of space ... and came from the AFUN composed of eight techno tracks virtual artistes, they are not intended surgeries to get. Apoki doesn’t need
summer school vacation is a prime INTERACTIVE studios. generated by artificial intelligence. to replace flesh-and-blood artistes. to go under the knife: the slightest of
time for new music releases. Apoki is FN Meka’s tracks are also entirely her imperfections can be erased with
one of the artistes making her This South Korean start-up composed with the help of But one thing is for sure: it is much a few mouse clicks. – ETX Studio
comeback this year, having recently specialises in the production of 3D easier to take care of the musical
unveiled her new track, West Swing, content in real time. It recently career of an avatar. They are much
which she created in collaboration announced a partnership with Sony
with the Californian rapper E-40. Music Solutions in Japan to develop
Apoki’s career internationally.
This song is an opportunity for
Apoki to try her hand at new jack “At AFUN INTERACTIVE, we’re
swing, a genre popular in the late pioneering the new genre of virtual
1980s and early ‘90 that mixes hip entertainment, so we look forward to
hop and R’n’B, but also aims to reach seeing the various kinds of synergy
a wider audience. we will produce with Sony,” said DK
Kwon, CEO of AFUN INTERACTIVE,
While the K-pop singer enjoys a in a statement.
huge fan base in South Korea, she is
much less renowned outside her Like all virtual idols, Apoki is built
native country. to adapt to the expectations of her
fans, which speaks to a paradigm
One of the reasons is that Apoki is shift of what an artiste is today.
not a regular human artiste but a
virtual pop star. 2.0 idols are very “I can do anything we dream up.
successful in Asia, especially in China It’s a shame that I can’t put on a show
and Japan, where they have managed in real life, but there’s a lot of things
to build up large communities of that I’m able to do as a virtual artiste
fans. For instance Apoki is followed that make up for that and more,” she
by more than 3.7 million people on explained in an interview with
TikTok, and 291,000 on YouTube. Billboard Japan.

Could a riderless self-driving bicycle be Play-ing hard to get
used in transport?
IN the United States as well as in SONY’S PlayStation 5 is already
China, concepts of fully self-driving In his spare time, an engineer has But all this is still somewhat in the notoriously difficult to find, and made the difficult decision to
bicycles, riding without anyone’s developed a fully autonomous realm of science fiction, for at least recently, the popular console’s increase the recommended retail
help, have recently emerged. Still at bicycle system. – YOUTUBE two reasons. Firstly, this type of manufacturer said that it will also price of PlayStation 5 in select
the prototype stage, these projects sidewalks. mobility will have to undergo become more expensive for markets,“ Ryan said in a
nevertheless hint at new uses for approval procedures, nearly gamers in many parts of the statement.
these vehicles. In each case, this type of vehicle everywhere in the world. Secondly, world.
would be perfectly suited to shared the eventuality of accidents or theft Sony’s current top priority is to
One is the work of researchers at mobility services. Users would be has not been elaborated. While the Sony Interactive Entertainment address a supply crunch that has
the Massachusetts Institute of able to order a bike from a point near technology is impressive, its real-life (SIE) has recommended raising made PS5s difficult to buy, he
Technology (MIT). They have them and see the bike come directly use may prove complicated. – ETX the console’s retail price in said. – ETX Studio
developed a model that literally to them. Once the trip is over, it can Studio Europe, the United Kingdom,
changes its design depending on automatically return to the nearest Japan, China, Australia, Mexico
whether a person is riding it or not. station. Users would no longer have and Canada, the company’s top
to worry about finding available official Jim Ryan said.
In autonomous mode, its rear bikes or docking points.
wheel splits and the whole thing US consumers will be spared
becomes a tricycle, so that it remains from the hikes, Ryan said, without
perfectly stable. For the moment, providing further explanation.
this prototype is operated with a
remote control, but the idea is to The price rise will see a PS5
make it function more Digital Edition retail in Europe for
independently in the future. €449.99 (RM1,999), up from
€399.99 (RM1,555) .
Another project, in a slightly
more advanced phase, has been The same console will be sold
developed on a personal basis by an in the UK for £389.99 (RM2,005),
engineer from Huawei. Equipped up from £359.99 (RM1,851), and
with different sensors and cameras, in Japan for 49,478 yen (RM1,581),
it manages to move forward, alone, up from 43,978 yen (RM1,405).
by systematically moving aside to
avoid obstacles, on the road or the SIE blamed “high global
inflation rates as well as adverse
currency trends” for the price
increases.

“Based on these challenging
economic conditions, SIE has

21theSUN ON TUESDAY | SEPTEMBER 6, 2022

SPORTS

█ ELEANOR CROOKS In good Nick to play tennis again.”
That last comment may or may not
NICK KYRGIOS has his eyes Kyrgios ‘relieved after overcoming unpredictability’ to upset Medvedev
on the big prize after a be serious, but what is clear is Kyrgios
stunning victory over year-old. was really a time where I didn’t think I really hard, then tanking. is a serious title contender if he can
defending champion Daniil “Obviously if you look at it on was capable of “I honestly didn’t know how to maintain the form he showed under
Medvedev to continue his brilliant producing and deal with any of it. I beat myself up the lights.
summer by reaching a first US Open paper, I probably wasn’t expected to doing this any way too hard. It was unhealthy.
quarterfinal. win that. Maybe take a set or two if I’m more. “I look back, it was just all a Medvedev revealed afterwards that
lucky. Give the people a show. learning process to now he was not feeling well, blaming the
Making the Wimbledon final has “I just because I’ve matured so much. United States’ love of air conditioning,
wetted the Australian’s appetite for “It’s a great win. But I come off the mentally “I know the process now of but credited Kyrgios for his
more success on the big stage and he court and I’m just almost relieved that struggled so what it takes to get to a final of performance.
produced a superb display of power it’s over because there’s just so much hard for the a grand slam. Not to win it yet,
and touch to win 7-6 (11), 3-6, 6-3, 6-2. pressure every time I go out on court, first six, but to get to the final. “It was a high-level match,” said
so much expectation, so much seven years “It’s the last biggest Medvedev. “I’ve played Novak, Rafa.
Medvedev defeated Novak unpredictability of of my career. I tournament of the year. We’ve They all play amazing. Nick today
Djokovic to win his maiden grand what I can do. had great got to try and just tough it out played kind of their level, in my
slam title in New York 12 months ago results, and keep pushing each other, opinion.
but he was beaten by the better player “I just sit there shocking keep being positive.
under the lights on Arthur Ashe and in the locker results, try “Next week we’re going home. “If he plays like this until the end of
will now lose the No. 1 ranking. room after and But three more matches the tournament, he has all the
I’m just super potentially, then we never have chances to win it.
Kyrgios has spoken extensively proud of the
about the influence of his team and performance “I’m not going to cry in the (press)
wanting to make the months away because there room, but I’m a little bit disappointed.
from Australia count by finally living For a few days I’m going to be just a
up to his enormous talent. little bit sad, looking at my phone, my
laptop or watching some series.
“I’ve been in some really tough
situations mentally, and in some “But that’s motivation, try to do
really scary places,” said the 27- better. Obviously it was the last slam of
the year. I didn’t do well enough.” –
The Independent

Gauff not taking anything for granted Court chides Serena
over lack of ‘honour’
COCO GAUFF relished being the centre of go to a football game or an NBA game,
attention in New York as she reached the people are chanting the team’s name. Coco Gauff celebrates after AUSTRALIAN Margaret Court “I got married, had a baby,
quarterfinals of the US Open for the first winning the first set against believes she does not get as but then had one of my best
time. “For you to have the whole crowd Shuai Zhang on day seven much credit as she deserves for years, winning 24 out of 25
chanting your name specifically is of the US Open tournament. her 24 grand slam singles titles tournaments.”
The 18-year-old is poised to break into something I won’t take for granted.” – REUTERSPIX from anyone in the tennis
the top 10 for the first time next week and world these days, least of all Court reminded her critics
continued her excellent season by defeating In the last eight she will face one of the Serena Williams. that she also had a superior
China’s Zhang Shuai 7-5, 7-5 in a high- most in-form players in the draw in 28-year- record to Williams after they
quality encounter on Arthur Ashe Stadium. old Frenchwoman Caroline Garcia. Williams was feted in many became mothers during their
quarters as the greatest tennis careers.
The American has already made her first Garcia’s 6-4, 6-1 victory over Alison Riske- player of all time when she
grand slam final this year at the French Open Amritraj earned her a second career grand retired after her third-round “I came back after two
and it would be an irresistible narrative if she slam quarterfinal five years after she reached loss at the US Open on babies,” she said. “After having
could win her first title in the tournament the same stage on home soil at Roland Saturday, one title shy of the the first baby, I won three out
where Serena Williams bowed out. Garros. record Court set from 1960 to of the four slams. And Serena
1973. hasn’t won a slam since (she
There is still a long way to go, of course, “I don’t feel the same person that I was had a baby).”
but Gauff is yet to drop a set and showed five years ago,” she said. “Obviously I learned “Serena, I’ve admired her as
her competitive maturity in a tough battle a lot. I got some tough years in there. I got a player,” Court, 80, told the Court said she thought the
with Zhang, winning the final four games some experience. Daily Telegraph in a rare life of a top tennis player was
and saving a set point. interview. “But I don’t think she actually harder in her day.
“We have been working hard to come has ever admired me.”
The teenager is already a big favourite back to the top level. I’m really glad to be at “I would love to have played
with tennis audiences, and she said: “On the this level again. Really enjoying it.” The 80-year-old defended in this era. I think it’s so much
6-5 changeover, people were saying, ‘Let’s her achievements against easier,” she said.
go, Coco’. I was literally trying not to smile. In other matches, Ajla Tomljanovic suggestions they were not
followed up her huge win over Williams by comparable to those of “How I would love to have
“I’ve got to stay in the zone. Inside I was defeating in-form Russian Liudmila Williams because she played taken family or friends along
trying my hardest not to smile. This is a Samsonova 7-6 (8), 6-1, saving eight set mostly in the amateur era. with me. But I couldn’t. I had to
surreal moment for me, on Arthur Ashe points in the opening set. go on my own or with the
Stadium people are chanting my game. I feel “Serena has played seven national team. People don’t see
like I’m at an NBA game. In the quarterfinals she will take on fifth years more than I did,” Court all that.
seed Ons Jabeur, who was a 7-6 (1), 6-4 added. “I finished in my early
“That’s a special thing about tennis. You winner over another Russian, Veronika 30s. People forget that I took “We didn’t have
Kudermetova. – The Independent two years out. I first retired… psychologists or coaches with
when I was 25, thinking I would us. It’s a whole different world.
IN THE MATTER OF never return to tennis. That’s what disappoints me,
THE COMPANIES ACT 2016 that players today don’t honour
the past of the game.” – Reuters
AND
PRODUCT RECALL NOTICE IN THE MATTER OF Johnson wins LIV Golf
Boston in playoff
! supplied by Fanhub Home Appliances Sdn Bhd SME SDN. BHD.
(Registration No.: 200701016095
The recall of the product for the below models is due to it did not undergo safety verification consignment test, does DUSTIN JOHNSON rattled in leaderboard at 15-under.
not have the SIRIM-ST safety label and it is not guaranteed to be safe. (774102-A)) a monster eagle putt at the He wouldn’t make another
(IN LIQUIDATION) first playoff hole to win the
Brand : Fanhub Ceiling Fan (MEMBERS’ VOLUNTARY WINDING UP) LIV Golf Invitational Boston, birdie, however, needing par
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that at the upstaging the raft of saves at the par-three 17th
Model Batch No. General Meeting of the Company held newcomers to the breakaway and 18th to make the playoff.
FH9600MW 0004131117 at No. 3A, Jalan Industri 2/2, Kawasan circuit.
FH9600MB Perindustrian Gopeng, 31600 Gopeng, Lahiri was first in the
FH9600MB-WG Perak on 30th August, 2022 at 10:00 Johnson emerged clubhouse on 15-under, and
am the following Special Resolution was triumphant from a three-way could have sealed the win at
Model: Batch No. duly passed:- playoff that also featured his final hole of regulation,
FH9800DG 0002220817 “That SME SDN. BHD. be wound up Chile’s Joaquin Niemann and the 18th, where his six-foot
voluntarily and that Mr. Chan Wai Meng India’s Anirban Lahiri, both eagle putt circled the cup but
Model Siri No. of B-2-13, Tingkat 2, Intan Business making their debuts in the didn’t drop.
FH5301OB 2111020001- Centre 2, Lebuh Medan Ipoh, Bandar controversial Saudi-backed
2111021270 Baru Medan, 31400 Ipoh, Perak Darul series. Despite the critics,
Model No. Ridzuan be and is hereby appointed Johnson said he was happy
FH8504MW Batch No. Liquidator for the purpose of winding-up All three finished 54 holes to be a part of what he sees
FH8504EB-R 0001154 the Company.” at International Golf Club on as an exciting new venture.
0005081 TAN CHEE ENG 15-under.
Director He said the money on the
Purchasers are required to return these products to the company as below address for replacement within 6 months Ipoh World No. 2 and reigning line made for plenty of
effective from the date of this advertisement. Dated: 6th September, 2022 British Open champion, competitive tension, despite
Cameron Smith, finished a the freewheeling
41A, Jalan Impian Emas 2 IN THE MATTER OF shot back on 14-under in his atmosphere.
Taman Impian Emas, Skudai 81300 Johor. THE COMPANIES ACT 2016 LIV Golf debut, tying for
fourth with England’s Lee “Especially with that check
Enquiries, please call 07-5559827 (Ms. Leyna) or AND Westwood, who charged into that you get – you can feel it,”
email to [email protected] for more information. IN THE MATTER OF contention with an 8-under Johnson said.
62 but bogeyed his last hole
SME SDN. BHD. to miss the playoff. American Pat Perez had a
(Registration No.: 200701016095 succinct answer for critics
Johnson carded a 5-under who say LIV Golf’s
(774102-A)) 65 yesterday, his sixth birdie tournaments amount to
(IN LIQUIDATION) of the day at the 13th, exhibitions.
(MEMBERS’ VOLUNTARY WINDING UP) putting him atop the
Notice is hereby given that the creditors “Exhibition match don’t
of the abovenamed Company which is pay US$4.75 million
being voluntarily wound up, are required, (RM21m),” Perez said. – AFP
on or before 6th October, 2022 to send
in their names and addresses with
particulars of their debts and claims,
and the names and addresses of their
solicitors (if any) to the undersigned
Liquidator and, if so required by notice
in writing from the said Liquidator, are
by their solicitors or personally to come
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.
CHAN WAI MENG
Liquidator
B-2-13, Tingkat 2,
Intan Business Centre 2
Lebuh Medan Ipoh,
Bandar Baru Medan
31400 Ipoh, Perak
Dated: 6th September, 2022

22 theSUN ON TUESDAY | SEPTEMBER 6, 2022 SIDENETTING
SPORTS Villarreal extend strong start in La Liga

Roma hit for four VILLARREAL thrashed struggling Elche 4-0 in La Liga
ROMA’S unbeaten start to the Serie Mourinho’s team miss out on top spot after yesterday to keep their unbeaten start intact and stay within
A season came to a sobering end surprise thrashing by Udinese two points of leaders Real Madrid. Gerard Moreno and
as they suffered a 4-0 thrashing at Giovani Lo Celso scored in the first half before Francis
Udinese yesterday, missing out on “Now let’s move on, we have 10 points. into the net. Coquelin and Jose Luis Morales struck in the closing
the chance to reclaim top spot. We are all there, we make our own path. Roberto Pereyra curled a fine shot past minutes. Unai Emery’s side are the only team yet to concede
a goal in the Spanish top flight and sit level on 10 points
Jose Mourinho’s side had only “It’s tough for us and the fans to Patricio with quarter of an hour remaining with Barcelona. Athletic Bilbao’s unbeaten run ended with a
conceded one goal in their opening four swallow, but this is life. We have another to put the game to bed. 1-0 home loss to Espanyol as Martin Braithwaite scored on
games of the campaign, but were game on Thursday and we go forward. his debut days after his contract with Barcelona was
dismantled at the Stadio Friuli. Sandi Lovric added to Roma’s woes in terminated. Valencia hammered Getafe 5-1 with Gennaro
“The responsibility is all mine. Udinese the 82nd minute by finishing off a counter- Gattuso’s team bouncing back from consecutive one-goal
“I’d prefer to lose one match 4-0 than were perfect tonight, my compliments to attack, sending Udinese above their losses. Osasuna won for the third time in four games
four matches 1-0, because ultimately we them. We’ll be waiting for them in the opponents into fourth place. courtesy of Ruben Garcia’s late goal in a 2-1 victory over
only dropped three points rather than 12,” return game in Rome,” Mourinho added Rayo Vallecano.
Mourinho told DAZN. before leaving the interview. “We’re in a good period of form, the
team is growing, we’re in great shape Mainz end Gladbach’s unbeaten run
“It was a difficult match. It was a match Roma, who ended a 61-year wait for a physically and focused on pressing the
you could not risk going down to begin European trophy by winning last season’s opponents a bit higher, regardless of who MAINZ ended Borussia Moenchengladbach’s unbeaten
with because they defend well, they know Europa Conference League, visit they happen to be,” Udinese coach Andrea start to the Bundesliga yesterday as left-back Aaron Martin
how to manage the tempo of the game, Bulgarian champions Ludogorets Razgrad Sottil told DAZN. scored a second-half winner in a 1-0 victory. Gladbach
they’re physical.” in their Europa League group-stage could have gone level on points with third-placed Bayern
opener on Thursday. “I am trying to create our identity with Munich and Union Berlin with a win at Borussia Park, but
“If you go down against them you’re the lads, hoping to improve the were made to pay for Ko Itakura’s red card in the 53rd
already in trouble. We had a good chance Teenage wing-back Destiny Udogie, on performances game by game. minute. Spaniard Martin curled the resulting freekick into
at the start with (Paulo) Dybala who was loan from Tottenham, put Udinese into a the top corner and Mainz held on to move above their
our best player tonight. fifth-minute lead as he pounced on a Rick “The team was extraordinary tonight, opponents into fifth place. In earlier matches, Hertha Berlin
Karsdorp error to score for the second created so many chances, had rapid won for the first time this season with a 2-0 success at
“But Udinese… every time they time in three games. counter-attacks, as this side has in its DNA Augsburg as Dodi Lukebakio and Marco Richter found the
countered either they created a chance or that tendency for devastating transitions. net.
they scored,” Mourinho said. The hosts doubled their advantage 11
minutes into the second half as Roma “We allowed Roma very little, closed up
“We made mistakes at the worst times goalkeeper Rui Patricio allowed Lazar the spaces through the centre where they
of the game. When we got close to 1-1, Samardzic’s long-range strike to bounce tend to excel and neutralised them.” –
they practically closed it. They tried AFP/Agencies
everything not to let us play.

DUTCH GRAND PRIX Red Bull Racing’s Dutch driver Hamilton issues
Max Verstappen celebrates after apology after
RESULTS winning the Dutch Formula One X-rated rant
1. Max Verstappen (Red Bull) Grand Prix at the Zandvoort
2. George Russell (Mercedes) circuit on Sunday. – AFPPIX LEWIS HAMILTON has apologised for his
3. Charles Leclerc (Ferrari) foul-mouthed rant over team radio after
4. Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes) Max continues Dutch winning streak he was cruelly denied a shot at victory at
5. Sergio Perez (Red Bull) the Dutch Grand Prix yesterday.
6. Fernando Alonso (Alpine) RED BULL’S Max Verstappen won his Leclerc and Verstappen’s Mexican for two.
7. Lando Norris (McLaren) home Dutch Grand Prix from pole teammate Sergio Perez are tied on A virtual safety car period Mercedes looked as if they had
8. Carlos Sainz Jr (Ferrari) position for the second year in a row points in second place overall, with played a blinder by committing both of
9. Esteban Ocon (Alpine) yesterday to send the fans wild and the Ferrari driver ahead on wins with triggered by AlphaTauri’s Yuki their drivers to a one-stop strategy but
10. Lance Stroll (Aston Martin) his Formula One world championship seven rounds remaining, but Tsunoda changed that, however, with were thwarted when the safety car was
11. Pierre Gasly (AlphaTauri) lead into triple figures. Verstappen’s second title looks a Verstappen taking a cheap pitstop deployed towards the closing stages of
12. Alex Albon (Williams) formality. and Hamilton complaining his hopes the 72-lap contest.
13. Mick Schumacher (Haas) He added a bonus point for the of winning had been “stuffed”.
14. Sebastian Vettel (Aston Martin) fastest lap as George Russell finished In the constructors’ standings, Red The Silver Arrows opted to pit third-
15. Kevin Magnussen (Haas) second for Mercedes and Ferrari’s Bull have 511 points to Ferrari’s 376. The full safety car was deployed placed George Russell while Max
16. Zhou Guanyu (Alfa Romeo) Charles Leclerc completed the on lap 55 when Alfa Romeo’s Valtteri Verstappen also stopped for soft tyres,
17. Daniel Ricciardo (McLaren) podium at Zandvoort. Mercedes’ seven-times world Bottas stopped just before the last leaving Hamilton as a sitting duck when
18. Nicholas Latifi (Williams) champion Lewis Hamilton was corner, with Verstappen pitting for the green flags were waved once again.
Fastest lap: Max Verstappen (Red “They threw everything at us but fourth, the Briton fuming at his team soft tyres and Russell calling for the
Bull) we made the right calls,” said after leading a race he might have same but Hamilton staying out on Hamilton went on to slam his
Retirements: YukiTsunoda Verstappen over the radio as he won but for the timing of safety cars the mediums. Mercedes team using plenty of colourful
(AlphaTauri), Valtteri Bottas (Alfa celebrated his fourth win in a row, and a tyre strategy that left him on language in an angry radio rant, but was
Romeo) and 10th in 15 races to surge 109 slower tyres than rivals. Verstappen seized the lead again quick to say sorry when quizzed on his
WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP points clear at the top. at the re-start and did not look back, mid-race comments by Sky Sports F1.
1. Max Verstappen (NED) 310 pts, 2. “I can’t believe you guys,” he said with Russell and Leclerc powering
Charles Leclerc (MON) 201, 3. Sergio “It’s always special to win your over the radio, with expletives filling past soon after and triggering a “My apologies to the team,“ he said. “I
Perez (MEX) 201, 4. George Russell home grand prix, this year I had to the airwaves. heavily bleeped radio exchange. don’t know what I said, I lost it for a
(GBR) 188, 5. Carlos Sainz Jr (ESP) work for it even more,” he added as second and I think they know it’s so
175, 6. Lewis Hamilton (GBR) 158, 7. the grandstands full of orange- The Mercedes drivers had run “We timed it really well out of that much passion. I want to look at it as a
Lando Norris (GBR) 82, 8. Esteban shirted fans – most of the 105,000 one-two for the first time this season, last corner into the banking. You glass half full.
Ocon (FRA) 66, 9. Fernando Alonso attendance – went into party after rivals made their first pitstops, could see the draft was quite strong
(ESP) 59, 10. Valtteri Bottas (FIN) overdrive. with the pair on an initial one-stop and we got ahead. It’s incredible to “We struggled coming here from Spa
46,11. Kevin Magnussen (DEN) 22, strategy while Verstappen planned win again,“ said Verstappen. – Reuters and fighting against the Red Bulls. We
12. Sebastian Vettel (GER) 20, 13. were quicker than most, but if it were for
Daniel Ricciardo (AUS) 19, 14. Pierre the safety car I think we would have
Gasly (FRA) 18, 15. Mick Schumacher challenged him (Verstappen) on the
(GER) 12, 16.YukiTsunoda (JPN) 11, one-stop, which I don’t think the others
17. Zhou Guanyu (CHN) 5, 18. Lance could do.
Stroll (CAN) 5, 19. Alexander Albon
(THA) 4, 20. Nicholas Latifi (CAN), “So many things to take away. The car
Nico Hulkenberg (GER) 0. is finally working and if this can be the
CONSTRUCTORS same for the next few races we will
1. Red Bull 511pts, 2. Ferrari 376, 3. breathe down their necks and we will get
Mercedes 346, 4. Alpine-Renault that win.
125, 5. McLaren-Mercedes 101, 6.
Alfa Romeo 51, 7. Haas-Ferrari 34, 8. “The last race we were miles away
AlphaTauri-Red Bull 29, 9. Aston and we didn’t understand and yesterday
Martin-Mercedes 25, 10. Williams- I was pole until the last corner.
Mercedes 4.
“I was 0.7 seconds up on Max. They
are quicker on the straights but he would
have probably clipped me on the
straight. We would have been third or
second yesterday and be in a better
position.” – Express Newspapers

MERCEDES team principal Toto Wolff Tsunoda retirement changed race: Wolff “What needs to be investigated for
has raised questions about Yuki the safety of drivers, and everybody
Tsunoda’s retirement from the Dutch with Lewis Hamilton breathing down to the pits. route to victory. out there is that the driver stopped,
Grand Prix, which assisted Max his neck. After a series of checks – including Asked if Formula One’s governing unbuckled, did a full lap, came in, the
Verstappen’s victory. problem wasn’t solved, they put the
However, the circumstances the refastening of his straps – FIA should investigate the incident, seatbelts back on and he drove out
Tsunoda, who drives for Red Bull’s surrounding Tsunoda’s failure to finish Tsunoda was again sent on his way Wolff replied: “If we were fighting for a and stopped the car again.
junior team AlphaTauri, broke down raised eyebrows after he prepared to only for AlphaTauri to tell him to retire championship, that would be
on lap 48 of 72 and the ensuing retire from the race by removing his the car after just four corners, before something that I would closely look “That has probably changed the
Virtual Safety Car period handed safety belts only to be told to return Verstappen later passed Hamilton en at. outcome of the race which we maybe
Verstappen an effective free pit stop could have won.” – The Independent